How Do I Select the Correct Walking Shoes?

Selecting the correct walking shoe seems like a daunting task because of the wide variety of available options and styles. But it is important. Comfortable quality walking shoes help you stride without awkward motion or soreness. Well-designed walking shoes move and flex with the foot to provide a stable landing surface and suitable support system. Find the right pair of walking shoes to care for the only feet you have and improve your performance during walking workouts.

Things You'll Need

  • Socks
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Instructions

    • 1

      Walk for an hour or more before you shop for walking shoes, and wear the socks you plan to wear with the new shoes. Walking causes the foot to fill with blood and swell as it will during walking workouts. Swelling your foot in advance ensures that the new shoes you select will fit you for the entire walk.

    • 2

      Speak with a member of the staff at shoe retailers about your walking shoe search. Tell them about the terrain you walk on and the average distances you travel. Ask them to suggest a few walking shoes that are suited to the walking you do.

    • 3

      Examine the materials and construction of each of the suggested walking shoes. Reject any shoes that are made of thick, heavy materials that will not allow air to flow or are mostly glued together instead of stitched.

    • 4

      Squeeze the soles to find which shoes have a stiff heel with a flexible arch and toe. A heel that curves inward instead of flaring out makes it easier to get the proper heel-to-toe step for a comfortable stride. The arch and toe must bend and twist easily to flex with the foot on each step.

    • 5

      Try on the shoes to find the pair or pairs that fit you comfortably. Make sure there is half an inch of empty space in front of your toes, and that your toes can wiggle freely. Walk through the store to find out if any of the shoes pinch or slide in the heel or toe box when you are planting a foot or lifting it from the ground.

    • 6

      Select the pair of walking shoes that are within your price range and feel the most comfortable on your feet. Visit several stores if you can to be sure you select a pair you will be satisfied with.