What To Look For
The shoes should fit your feet comfortably, with a little wiggle room for the toes but otherwise snug. Lightweight, breathable material is best unless you are walking in cold temperatures. Durability, a flexible sole and a low heel are important factors in a good walking shoe. It's also good to find a pair of shoes in a versatile style that can be worn for multiple tasks, such as running errands and going to the office.
Common Pitfalls
Cheaply-made shoes that don't provide a good layer of cushioning between your feet and the concrete will make your feet sore, and leave you feeling more tired overall, as you have to use more energy to walk on hard surfaces which aren't forgiving like grass and dirt.
If the shoes are too tight, your feet will feel constricted, and you will have difficulty walking for long periods. Likewise, if the shoes are too loose, your heel may slide up and down against the back of the shoe and leave you with blisters.
Where To Buy
The Walking Company has stores across the United States and sells most lines of premium walking footwear. The store's staff are trained to fit you, and they guarantee your comfort. FootwearEtc.com and WalkingOnACloud.com are two online businesses specializing in walking shoes, sometimes at a substantial discount.
Cost
Discount stores and websites offer walking shoes for $30 and up, but generally you should expect to pay between $80 and $350 for shoes that are designed for walking comfort on hard surfaces. The more durability and style you're looking for, the more expensive the shoes will be.
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