What To Look For
Note the size and shape of your feet as well as the width and length and ensure that there is enough room in the toe box when you shop for walking shoes. There should always be about half an inch of space between the longest toe and the end of the shoe. Arches help distribute body weight so people with low arches should either invest in orthotics that will help maintain an arch and can be slipped into shoes for extra arch support, or purchase shoes that help stabilize the feet. Tired legs will feel more comfortable in shoes that have extra cushioning.
Common Pitfalls
Shop later in the day when your feet when feet have had a chance to swell. This will ensure that you purchase shoes that are the proper size and width. Measure both your feet when you buy shoes to note whether your shoe size has changed. Many people have two different-sized feet, so try both shoes on and walk around the store in them to make sure they fit. Shoes should fit well from the start; there should be no 'break-in' period. Test out several styles of shoes so that you can compare which shoe best meets your needs.
Where To Buy
Specialty shoe stores offer the customer a better choice of walking shoes for tired legs and low arches than the average shoe store. The salespeople are more knowledgeable about specific foot problems and the stores carry widths from AAA to EEE. Look for specialty brands such as Finn Comfort Shoes, Rockport, Ecco and Mephisto Shoes.
Cost
Plan to pay between $100 and $400 for a good pair of walking shoes. Walking shoes from a department store may cost $80 to $100, but you may not find the size, width and/or features that you are looking for. Bargains may be found on the Internet.
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