How to Choose the Best Walking Shoes?
By
There is one piece of gear that is definitely worth the investment, even as a novice -- and that is a good pair of walking shoes. Do not wear cheap or old athletic shoes. Any athletic shoe that is more than eight-months old likely does not have much life left as the cushioning will be substandard.
Far too many people quit their exercise programs because their feet hurt. Having said that, from $60-$80 that you will have to invest for a decent pair of footwear should not keep you from getting started.
There are two choices for footwear -- a pair of light hiking shoes or athletic shoes. Light hiking shoes are also called rugged walking shoes. These are excellent for roads and sidewalks and athletic shoes tend to be lighter. If you intend to venture onto trails, or plan to walk in inclement weather, you should probably invest in the light hiking shoe.
- Always look for shoes that are identified as walking shoes. Running shoes would be a second choice, and cross trainers would be a third. Specifically search for the following:A shoe that will easily bends through the ball of the foot. It needs to be firm and will not bend easily through the arch.
- Search for a shoe with a low heel. Do not choose a running shoe with a big cushion in the heel area. This additional material in the heel forces your toes to slap down too quickly and will likely lead to shin discomfort while walking.
- Do not purchase high tops as they can irritate your Achilles tendon.
- Do not purchase shoes with extra layers and support straps, generally made for basketball and aerobics.
Generally, the same criteria holds true for the light hiking shoe. Do keep in mind that to provide more protection from rocks on hiking trails; the shoe will not be as flexible through the ball of the foot. It should also give you more lateral support -- perhaps a higher ankle to protect against ankle rolling.
The shoes that you choose to walk in must fit well and be among your most comfortable. The heel should not slip when you take a step. Your toes must never touch the end of your shoe. There should be no pinching or binding around the widest part of your foot, especially when rolling off your toes at the end of a step. There should be no reason to stop from a blister before you have even begun.
More on Sports and Recreation for Baby Boomers
Diving The Spiegel Grove: A Little Piece of Heaven Underwater
The Basics Of A Good Golf Swing