Wearing the right shoe for your sport can reduce your risk of injury, as well as prevent foot fatigue and joint pain. Walking shoes are designed specifically for fitness walking, where you are more likely to keep a quick constant pace for extended periods of time, but they can also make everyday errand-running more comfortable. The shoe you choose should depend upon not only the type of walking that you do, but also upon your particular foot. The New Balance 925 is suitable for many foot types.
What to Look For
If you have high arches, you need extra cushioning in the sole to protect your joints from extra impact. If you have low arches, you need motion control features to keep you foot from rolling inward as you stride. Look for a wide toe box that allows your foot to flex without causing friction, and a secure ankle collar that keeps your heel from slipping out. Traction is important, especially if you walk on trails or other unsteady terrain. Mesh uppers are lighter than leather, and allow your feet to breathe or dry quickly when you walk in wet conditions. Removable insoles are convenient because you can take them out to dry or air out before the next wearing.
The New Balance 925
New Balance introduced the 925 in 2003, with maximum cushioning in the front and rear and a roll bar for stability. The upper was leather, with a stabilizing outsole to encourage your foot into the correct walking gait. In 2005, the company updated the shoe's closure system from laces to Velcro. The fact that the shoe provides both motion control and extra cushioning makes it suitable for both high- and low-arched walkers, but people with high arches may need to use an arch support insert. The leather upper may make the shoe more durable, but your feet may get hot if you walk for long periods or in very hot weather. The 925 is a basic road walking shoe, and may not have enough traction for rough trails.
Alternatives
"Fitness" magazine likes the New Balance 1200 for road walking because it is stable and cushioned with a flexible outsole. The Asics GEL-Fluent also earned top marks for the same features, plus the stride-correction features that keep your foot pointed correctly as you walk. For trail walking, the Keen Genoa Peak and the Columbia Ashlane have the rigid support, thick-lug traction and water-resistance that can help you get the most from your walk.
How to Shop for Shoes
Shop for walking shoes late in the day, when your feet are largest, and wear the socks you normally wear with your walking shoes. Have your feet measured every time, and if one foot is bigger, fit that foot. Shopping at a specialty store may cost a bit more than a discount store, but the salesperson can observe your gait and give you helpful fitting advice. If you bring your old walking shoes with you, skilled fitters can examine the wear pattern on the soles to tell you where you need support or correction. The shoes you choose should be comfortable from the start, without requiring a "break-in" period.
References
- Fitness Magazine: Fitness 2009 Sneaker Guide: The Best Walking Shoes
- MayoClinic.com: Walking Shoes: Fit and Features That Keep You Moving
- New Balance: New Balance Introduces New Walking Models for Fall 2003
- New Balance: New Balance Continues Their Tradition of Innovation with New Athletic Footwear Styles for Spring 2005
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