What To Look For
Support can come in many forms in athletic walking shoes (aside from fancy accoutrements that don't really add to the quality of the shoe). If you have high arches, you should look for thick midsoles and cushioning; if you are flat-footed, be on the lookout for greater support in the heel. Athletic walking shoes should fit a bit on the wide side and while providing ample support, should also be flexible in the front/toe area. There are excellent models that fit this bill, such as the Saucony Grid Instep RT, available in the $60 range.
Common Pitfalls
There are multiple catchphrases in the athletic sports shoe market that can be misleading for consumers, such as "air cushioning" and "gel technology"; these phrases do not necessarily provide greater support or a better exercise experience, but they will end up costing you financially! It is also important not to buy walking shoes that are tight on any area of your foot---this will lead to blisters and more discomfort than the normal amount you expect when breaking in a new pair of athletic shoes.
Where To Buy
You can purchase quality walking shoes at sporting goods stores, such as chains like CitySports and Dick's, as well as brand websites like New Balance and larger, more general online retailers like Eastbay and Zappos. General online retailers and sporting goods stores are more likely to have sales than brand retailers and sites, but across the board, most retailers offer shoes for very similar prices; there is not a huge amount of variation.
Cost
The price of athletic walking shoes varies greatly---quality models, such as the Saucony Grid Instep mentioned earlier, sell for around $60, while some well-reviewed models, such as Mephisto's Sano shoe, retail for around $250.
Accessories
When you decide to purchase a pair of quality athletic walking shoes, be sure to also buy quality, breathable athletic cotton socks to ensure that your walks are as comfortable and enjoyable as possible! This is a small but very worthwhile investment.
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