What To Look For
Overweight walkers should look for several traits to find the best shoes for walking and standing. Low heels offer extra support and help to distribute your weight evenly across your feet. If the heel rounds in, that will also provide you with extra protection. Thick heels add stress to your arches and the ball of your foot, and may lead to injuries, especially in your shins. Walkers should generally look for shoes with flexible soles and an upper constructed from light, breathable material, like synthetic mesh. However, very overweight walkers will benefit from the extra support of a running shoe, and should consider starting out their workout regimens with these shoes, later switching to a custom walking shoe.
Common Pitfalls
Overweight walkers should keep track of how long they have had their shoes and how many miles they have walked in them. Standing does not wear shoes down as much, so it does not need to be taken into consideration. Replacing your shoes every 300 miles will keep them supportive and flexible enough to meet your needs.
While extremely light shoes may appeal to the overweight walker, he needs to consider the extra support in a shoe that his weight requires. As he loses weight, he can shift to a more lightweight shoe; at the beginning, however, he should focus on finding a shoe that offers enough support and cushioning.
Where To Buy
Many local running and athletic stores also carry walking shoes. Because many brands that manufacture running shoes also make walking shoes, trying on several pairs of running shoes can help you find the proper fit, even if you are looking for a custom-made walking shoe. Try on your walking shoe before you purchase it, and spend some time walking and standing in it to make sure it serves both purposes. After you have purchased your first pair of walking and standing shoes in person, you might wish to buy future pairs online, where you can save significant amounts of money.
Cost
Higher-priced walking shoes aren't necessarily better than those that cost less. The average walking shoe costs around $75 up to $100. If you choose to purchase a running shoe to walk and stand in, these cost in the neighborhood of $80 to $120.
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