1. Stay on Track
Walking shoes last for about 400 miles. Keep track of how far you walk, so you can determine when it is the right time to purchase new shoes. You should wear them only during dedicated walking times, and avoid using them for casual, everyday walking. Take care of your walking shoes and replace them when necessary, and they will take care of your feet.
2. Look for Variety and Service
When looking for somewhere to purchase walking shoes, look for a store with a variety of brands and styles. Ask the staff questions and make sure they are knowledgeable on the brands and styles they sell. While a mega-store, such as Wal-mart or Just for Feet, may have a large variety of shoes, they do not always have the staff available to help you get the perfect fit. Locally owned sports stores are a great alternative, as are sporting goods stores, such as Dick's Sporting Goods.
3. Protect Your Feet
An important walking shoe feature is a padded ankle collar that protects the ankle. Ensure that it has a notch, so it won't irritate the Achilles' tendon. A thick tongue is also essential to make sure there is no pressure from the laces on the top of the foot. Some type of reflective surface on the walking shoe allows cars to easily see you when walking in the evening or early morning hours. Tread is also an important feature. The rougher the ground, the more tread you need on the bottom of your walking shoe.
4. Find Your Perfect Fit
Try on different shoes in different styles and brands. You are looking for the shoe that fits the best and offers you the support that you need. Try on both the left and the right shoe. Make sure the fit is good on both feet. When looking for the correct fit, you want it be wide enough. You also want to be able to have at least one finger's width between the top of your big toe and the top of the shoe. Walk around in the shoes for a bit and make sure they bend above the toes. This is called flex. Pay attention to the cushioning and support.
5. Walk With a Runner
Consider a running shoe if you are doing race walking. Many people prefer these types of shoes for racing events. However, different companies are coming out with new walking shoes expressly for race walking. New Balance makes a shoe specifically for this type of competition.
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