What To Look For
Contrary to what many believe, walking shoes are a type of footwear made for comfortable walking. They are neither running, nor tennis shoes, nor are they loafers or sneakers. When looking for walking shoes, go to a sporting goods store and try on several pairs of shoes specific to walking. Look for a shoe that is comfortable and fits your foot nicely.
Common Pitfalls
It may be tempting to buy running shoes or hiking boots for their appearance or comfort, but these shoes are built for an alternate form of exercise and may end up causing you discomfort. If you know your primary form of exercise will be walking, be careful to choose a shoe that is designed for walking. Be wary of shoes that are marketed as "all purpose" types of shoes.
Where To Buy
Walking shoes can be purchased at a specialty store, typically locally owned, or at a larger sporting goods store. If you are still determining what type of shoe is best for you, it may be ideal to visit a smaller store that offers personalized service and a professional salesperson who can help you in finding the right shoe.
Cost
A good pair of walking shoes can cost anywhere from $40 to $150. This pricing will depend on quality, brand and performance of the shoe. Different brands offer different types and levels of performance within the walking shoe market. New Balance, for instance, has a reputation for having a line of quality, reasonably priced walking shoes. Prices on New Balance shoes average around $40-$50 per pair.
Comparison Shopping
Knowing what you are looking for in a walking shoe will greatly increase your ability to choose which shoe is right for you. You can learn a lot about a shoe simply by examining its structure. Shoes that have a round, low heel will promote the healthy roll of your feet as you are walking, as opposed to shoes with a thick, flat heel. Before you try a shoe on, test its flexibility with your hands. A shoe should have a lightweight, flexible sole that bends with your foot. If the sole is heavy and stiff, it will cause your feet to cramp, and could cause further damage in the muscles and joints of your legs.
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