What To Look For
Walking in sand can be an aerobic workout or a casual walk on the beach. The best shoes vary widely depending on what type of sand and your walking style. If you're walking on the beach or taking a leisurely stroll, classic sandals or flip-flops could be right for you. But if you prefer a more hard-core workout or are inland, enclosed shoes are a must to protect your feet. In addition, the temperature around you will determine if you need something that's breathable to keep your feet cool.
Common Pitfalls
When you're walking in the sand, your shoes have to protect your feet. Know exactly what is in the sand around you. On a beach, you might encounter broken glass, sharp shells, jellyfish and other debris. Inland, you have to be careful of pests such as scorpions, sand flies and lizards. Stability isn't as much of a concern as it can be on soil since the sand is naturally supportive to your feet and posture. But your shoe sole needs to be sturdy, so flimsy flip-flops may not be best if you are not going to be walking on pristine white sand.
Where To Buy
Your store of choice will be dictated by the type of shoes you need for the sand. You can pick up sandals for easy strolls at a discount store such as Target or Wal-Mart or go upscale in a department store such as Nordstrom's or Bloomingdales.
If you want a shoe that will still be comfortable if your feet get wet as you walk along the shore, there are water walking shoes available from specialty stores such as REI and L.L. Bean. With these shoes, you can take advantage of the firmer wet sand near the waves as well as the softer dry sand to vary your walk.
For shoes designed for more intense walking, you should go to a sporting goods store such as Dick's Sporting Goods or even your local running store and be professionally fitted for your shoes.
Cost
The price of your shoes can fluctuate wildly. For sandals, you can spend anywhere from $2 on a pair of rubber flip-flops to more than $200 on designer leather sandals in 2010. If you want more of an athletic shoe, you can probably get an entry-level pair for $20 from a discount store, but will likely spend in the $75 to $150 range at a sporting goods store.
Accessories
If you're getting a closed-toe shoe, it's critical that you consider the socks you'll wear. Your socks need to be breathable for the health of your feet, yet able to absorb any sweat from hot feet. There are socks intended just for these demands and they will be a better fit for your new fitness walking routine than a generic white-cotton sock.
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