How to Buy Walking Shoes
While you shop for regular shoes, having a pair that not only looks great on your feet, but also offers comfort while you wear it is quite essential. Understanding the basics of buying the best walking shoes will ensure that you pick the perfect piece. So are you wondering what makes a pair of footwear best suitable for walking? Here are some tips that will help you understand how to buy walking shoes. There are just a few factors that you need to consider for having the best shoes on your feet.
Pick the Right Walking Shoes
Regular or Orthopedic
The first thing to be considered is whether you have any foot problem that requires use of orthopedic footwear. Orthopedic footwear is an effective solution for various foot problems. Moreover, you have an array of options in such specialty footwear in the market today. So, first consider whether you need to opt for orthopedic shoes or regular footwear and shop accordingly.
Inner and Outer Sole
The inner sole plays the primary role in providing comfort to your feet. A good inner sole is usually cushioned and does not feel hard to your feet. You can look for an inner sole that also provides heel cushioning. Let me tell you that most of the latest shoes incorporate basic features of orthopedic footwear. So ensure that you pick a pair which offers arch support. Opting for low, medium or high arch support actually depends upon your feet. A low arch support is enough if you do not have any foot problem or low arch problem. A metatarsal support can be an added advantage. The outer sole must have good shock absorption and grip features. It is best to look for shoes with a non-skid outer sole.
Flat and Flexible
Though footwear with heels looks great, it does not provide the comfort of flat shoes. So it is best to opt for flat shoes with a maximum of 2 inches of heel. Also, prefer box heels over the pencil heels. Next, a footwear which is flexible is much better in providing ultimate walking comfort. A piece that bends and twists is good while you walk on uneven surfaces. The outer sole plays the main role in this case.
Try Them for Right Fit and Comfort
The right fit is the key to have footwear that does not hurt even while you wear it for hours. A shoe that is too wide or too narrow can simply lead to foot pain and discomfort while you walk for long hours or wear it throughout the day. At the same time, checking the overall comfort that the pair offers when you slip in your feet is very important. Trying the pair and walking in the store will help you find out the same. While taking a trial, make sure that you wear the type of socks which you will be wearing with this pair later on. Lace up shoes or those with velcro straps are good picks over slip on shoes. Lace up or strapped shoes offer an adjustable and better fit.
Well, hope the aforementioned tips on how to buy the right shoes help you shop for the perfect pair of footwear. You can further checkout the reviews and ratings to find out the best walking shoes for men and women available in the market. Let me tell you that investing in shoes from a good brand is definitely a smart step towards healthy feet!
