Selecting a good walking shoe is difficult because no two feet are alike. The key is to search for a shoe with the right features that maximize the comfort and stability of your feet. The MayoClinic.com suggests trying on your shoes after walking for an extended period of time so your feet are at their largest. Additionally, you should have both feet measured to ensure proper fit on both.
Brooks Defyance 3
With comfort, cushioning, fit and adequate support, the Brooks Sports Defyance 3 has it all. In fact, it was rated by testers at "Good Housekeeping" as the best overall walking shoe. As of January 2011, the Defyance 3 retails for about $100. It accommodates people of various foot widths, including normal, narrow 2A and wide D. It is marketed as a running shoe but excels as a walking shoe as well.
Asics GEL-Kayano Walker 7
Retailing for about the same price as the Brooks Defyance 3, the Asics GEL-Kayano Walker 7 utilizes a gel insole for maximum comfort while walking. This shoe also focuses on heel support with its Personal Heel Fit, or PHF, technology for reducing blisters. It's available in several widths, including wide D and narrow AA.
Saucony Grid
Saucony makes a series of shoes called the Grid series. These shoes may be plain looking compared to colorful alternatives -- they come in all-black or all-white -- but they are far from dull in terms of performance. They are made for both men and women, and they range in price from $75 up to $100. Reviewers at "Good Housekeeping" compared this shoe to walking in slippers -- that's a sign of exceptional comfort. If comfort and long-lasting performance is your number one concern, Saucony Grids may be the ideal choice for you.
Nike Air Miler Walk+
Designed for women, the Air Miler Walk+ offers advanced features and ultimate comfort in a shoe that retails for about $88. These walking shoes not only offer great comfort and breathable outer sole, but it has technology built-in that no other walking has. The Nike+ feature works alongside a Nike+ Sportsband, iPod Nano/Touch or iPhone with Nike+ compatibility to actually track your fitness progress. A small sensor in the shoe tracks your pace, time-elapsed, distance traveled and calories burned.
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