Top Things to Look For When Purchasing Walking Shoes

Comfort Shoes, Men's Walking Shoes, Walking Shoes - By Ed Forteau on Friday, August 20, 2010 - 13:25

Eons ago, a person could walk into a shoe store and purchase a dress shoe, a sneaker, or a tennis shoe. That’s all there was to it. There was no big hurrah or stress filled meltdowns over purchasing the “right” shoe. Today there are running shoes, hiking shoes, walking shoes, even water shoes. How do you know which pair are right for you?  Doing a little research can go a long way.

What type of walking shoes do you really need?

First consider your activity level. Amazing as it may sound, even walking shoes have different levels. There are shoes dedicated to walking marathons, casual fitness and race-walking. Everyday walking shoes can be used for not only “everyday” use but also for walking a marathon. If you plan on tackling race-walking then look for major flexibility and a low heel with a rounded edge.

Next, it’s time to check out the true size of your feet. Yes, everyone knows that your size hasn’t changed in the last 10 years. *cough cough* The rest of your body changes with age, and guess what? So do your feet. Find out the correct size and width of your foot by using the Brannock device. This little device is the flat metal thing you slip your foot onto while you are visiting your favorite shoe store. This handy device measures both the length and width of your foot.

Tips to keep in mind when trying on walking shoes

Make sure to wear the same type of socks that you would normally wear with your walking shoes. Using the little nylon sock that they give you at the store really won't do.

Another thing to remember is the best time to try on shoes. At the end of the day your feet are swollen and tired, perfect. After lacing up the shoes, they should be comfortable. They should not be too loose or too tight. Is there plenty of room to wiggle your toes? There should be a finger’s width between your toes and the end of the shoe.

Take your walking shoes for a stroll. When walking around the store pay attention to how the shoes react. Is there appropriate flexibility when you walk? Shoes should bend at the ball of the foot. A good flexibility test is to stand on the balls of your feet and roll back to your heels. Try walking on different surfaces to determine the difference in traction.

Discover the importance of arch support. When walking or standing still your arch should touch the bottom of the shoe. Another test is to stand with your feet shoulder width apart. Is there a sway in your stance? Do your feet roll inwards? If one or both of these are true then the shoes do not have the proper arch support. Pretty nifty bit of information, huh!

Purchasing walking shoes should not be left to price. The health of your feet are an important aspect of your health as a whole. Using these tips will help you to make an educated decision. Say good-bye to tired, aching feet because of the wrong shoes.