The Best Sneakers For Treadmill Walking

What To Look For

Look for a pair of shoes with cushioning and traction. First and foremost, cushioning in the heel and ball of the foot is important when walking on a treadmill. Walking on a treadmill puts great strain on the feet, with repeated heavy impact; cushioning helps prevent resulting soreness in the heels and balls of the feet. Do not, however, mistake cushioning for a soft, squishy insole, as such a surface will not provide the required support. Traction is also important in your choice of treadmill walking shoes. Traction ensures that you get the most out of your treadmill workout and also prevents injury by reducing the risk of falling.

Common Pitfalls

When purchasing a pair of treadmill sneakers, beware of shoes without enough arch support. Arch support in the insole of a shoe supports the center of your foot and protects the tendons from damage. Without proper arch support, you risk seriously injuring the tendons and muscles in your feet. When you try on a pair of new sneakers, the arch support should be noticeable right away. This arch support will help you maintain proper walking posture and ensure that your feet are protected.

Where To Buy

Purchase treadmill sneakers from a local shoe store or runner's supply store. Both types of stores will have a wide selection of walking shoes from which you can choose; you simply must find a pair suited to your feet. Ask an associate to help you pick a few pairs with cushioning, arch support and traction to try on. Try on several different pairs of shoes until you find one that feels as though it will provide your feet with proper support and comfort. Walk around the store while wearing the shoes to get a feel for how well they protect your feet from impact.

Cost

As of September 2010, walking shoes range in price from $50 to $300, depending on the brand name and quality. The highest shoes in this price range are typically reserved for quality shoes made by a particularly popular brand name. The shoes at the lower end of this price range are typically lower quality and made by a lesser known manufacturer. The mid-priced shoes are usually the best value for the money, as they provide quality without the hefty price of a popular brand name.