Choosing Walking Shoes Online Without Tearing Your Hair Out

Comfort Shoes, feature 4, Walking Shoes - By Ed Forteau on Friday, June 11, 2010 - 13:43

If choosing walking shoes is a chore for you, then you're in need of a footwear intervention.  Well, you've lucked out, because that's exactly what you're going to get with this article: pure, unfiltered advice for finding walking shoes that express both "taste" and "comfort" without shouting them.

First, we have to consider what goes into choosing walking shoes that actually deliver the goods.  Here's a quick checklist:

• Comfort.  Style is crucial, too, but without comfort, then you're just being something you're not.  You've got to feel comfortable in the shoes you're walking in, just as true style means comfort in your own skin.
• Style.  Speaking of style, it's important to make sure your walking shoe is actually appropriate for a great many public events.  You wouldn't go to dinner with friends in tennis shoes, even though they're comfortable...would you?
• Cost.  Good things cost money, but that's no reason to break the bank every time you want to buy yourself a new pair of shoes.

With that checklist in mind, we're ready to move onto the next phase:  finding the shoes.

How to Find the Right Shoes

Generally, for the sake of style, it's not a bad idea to go off the beaten path.  Everyone owns a pair of Nikes, but does that mean everyone owns a great pair of walking shoes?

The obvious answer is no. There's a lot more that goes into a good walking shoe than a shoe that is built for running or track and field, which is how many Nike shoes are constructed. You also have to pay attention to style - and your suit doesn't look very good if you're in a pair of bright red athletic shoes.

But what about finding the right shoes online without going through a whole lot of unnecessary fuss? If you want the style without the frustration, follow these basic steps:

• Get your size right. The #1 reason people return shoes online is because of poor fit. You may think that you know your shoe size from some previous shoes, but each brand varies a little bit - you want to get your size as accurate as possible. You might even consider having a professional at a shoe store measure your foot so that you can use that number for reference online.
• Learn what the shoe owners have had to say. Check out reviews of the shoes if you're reading online. Do the comments left by users suggest that the shoe fits a little snug? Then you may want to get one a half-size larger. Pay attention to these comments - don't give too much weight to any one particular comment, but try to see if there's a clear consensus.
• Read online reviews. Online reviews are a great way to find out all about walking shoes - they're like pumped-up versions of user comments. A good review will work to be accurate - but be careful that you don't come across a bad review that is simply trying to sell you a product.
• Avoid knock-offs. Knock-offs are prevalent on the internet, so make sure that you're buying from the real deal. Look for official sites. If you're looking for shoe deals, make sure that the person you're buying from is credible.  Do they have physical offices in the U.S.?  If the only way to contact them is a web form (no phone number is listed) this should be a Major Red Flag.  If problems arise, you want to speak to person, not communicate through a web form.  Real businesses that sell shoes online have phone support.  They mark up the suggested retail price, and then offer deep discounts.  This is a common tactic the knock-off artist uses.

The Three Types of Walking Shoes

Walking shoes might work as one-style-fits-all shoes, but that doesn't mean you can't mix it up a bit. It's not only important to consider what you're doing (walking), but to consider what you're wearing, as well.

Are you having a casual day at work? Then choose something that will be comfortable throughout the day, preferably in a brown color or even a less formal sneaker.

Are you attending a professional event? Then dress up and wear a shoe that complements your outfit rather than focusing on a casual look.

Are you going for a jog or a hike? Then wear something more athletic that supports your feet.

These three types of shoes - casual, dress/professional, and athletic - have different purposes, but all should be aimed at keeping you looking stylish and comfortable.

Choosing walking shoes isn't only about the shoe; it's about you.  What kind of lifestyle do you enjoy?  Where do your shoes need to take you?  Ask yourself these questions and you'll be on the right track to making a great purchasing decision.

Now, spend some time on this site looking at shoe brands.  You’ll find the best walking shoes on the market reviewed here.  We try to provide enough information so you can make a well-informed decision.  We are confident after spending time on this site you will find your next favorite pair of shoes.