Top-rated walking sneakers will provide four essential functions: shock absorption, stability, comfort and durability. Walking sneakers must be lightweight for fluid motion as well as possess a supportive heel cup, a flexible forefoot and a supportive midsole. Knowing the basic functions of a walking shoe and your foot type will allow you to choose the best shoe for your walking needs.
Foot Type
Feet can be wide, narrow, long or short, as well as have three different types of arches. The aches in your feet help to evenly distribute your body weight as you walk and allow you to adapt to different walking surfaces.
Arch Type
Neutral-arched feet aren't overly arched nor are they overly flat. A neutral arch needs a sneaker that consists of firm midsoles and moderate heel stability. Also, the sneaker should have a straight to semi-curved last, which is the shape of the sole and the footprint the shoe is built around. Low-arched feet are also called flat feet. A low arch needs a straight last and motion control for stability. High-arched feet don't absorb shock as well as other arch types. High arches need extra cushioning for shock absorption and a curved last.
What to Know
First, always take a pair of socks with you --- typically, those you wear for walking --- when shopping for walking shoes. Second, walk for a while before you try on shoes because your feet will expand after walking. Third, have your feet measured so that you know your foot size and width. Finally, walk around in the shoes to make sure there is no rubbing and the shoe is comfortable. There should be no break-in period for a walking shoe.
Top Rated Sneakers
Good Housekeeping Research Institute recently put nine different walking sneakers to the test. It enlisted a team of walkers to road test the sneakers and pick their top five. The team rated the shoes for fit, comfort, cushioning, quality and style after completing 96 combined hours of walking. The Brooks Sports Defyance came in first place due to its exceptional comfort and shock absorbance. Second place went to the Ryka Moira for its stability and comfort. Coming in third was the Asics Gel Kayano Walker due to its extra cushioning for pressure points. Fourth place went to Saucony Grid Instep RT for its overall comfort. The Nike Air Miler Walker Plus came in fifth place due to its breathability and mesh top toe box.
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