Walking requires very little equipment and can be done almost anywhere by people at most fitness levels. While a good pair of shoes is really all you need to start walking, additional gear like walking pants can make your walk more comfortable. The more comfortable you are, the longer you'll be able to walk.
Fit
Loose is good for comfort, but it isn't always good for walking. If you experience chafing on the inside of your thighs or other places in your lower body, choose exercise pants that fit snugly. Snug pants made from stretching materials like Spandex cling to your body and cause less friction as you move. Don't confuse snug with tight. Tight can limit circulation and interfere with breathing. Wear snug pants under looser pants if you're uncomfortable wearing something form-fitting.
Fabric Weight
Choose fabrics with weights appropriate to the season or temperature conditions where you walk. Lined walking pants or thick fleece or cotton pants can help keep you warm in the winter. Fabrics like Spandex and lightweight 100-percent cotton can help keep you cool in the summer. Choose soft, smooth fabrics that won't chafe or irritate your skin. Pick items you can layer to give you the most flexibility.
Moisture Control
Wear walking pants made of fabrics specifically designed to wick moisture away from your skin, keeping you comfortable and dry. Moisture control goes a long way to prevent chafing. It also helps you control your body temperature by avoiding wet clothing next to your skin.
Additional Features
Look for walking pants that have features that support your walking needs. For example, some walking pants have pockets for belongings like your keys and wallet. Others have slots at the hip to store your music player, pedometer or cell phone so you don't have to carry a bag or hold your gear in your hands. Some walking pants have removable bottoms that transition them to shorts, or loops you can pull that allow you to shorten the legs.
Member Comments