By Emily Sanderson, July 2009
Overview
With the technology and knowledge about feet that we have today, walking shoes continue to get more and more advanced. And the price of a quality shoe has come down, so shoe buyers can select the shoe that not only fits well but also has some flare.
The Advanced Walking Shoe
Owning a good pair of walking shoes is essential to maintaining an effective walking routine, even if you have never experienced any foot problems such as fallen arches, an ankle sprain, tendonitis, tarsal tunnel, or plantar fasciitis.
Today we have healthier feet because of new technologies and expanded knowledge about the anatomy of the foot, which continues to make the anatomy of the walking shoe more advanced. And now such a shoe can also be stylish, as well as competitively priced. The manufacturers’ selection of, for example, sturdy shoe fabrics that are also waterproof allow the feet to breathe and give adequate flexibility and/or support where needed.
Top-Rated Shoes
Walking.org, a British-based website, recently posted their top five walking shoes. The shoes were selected based on value, performance and looks. And the winners are …
1. Merrell Chameleon Wrap Slam Gore-Tex XCR – Teak
The fabric lining, mesh upper and Tex XCR technology offer fast cooling and remove excess moisture from the feet.
2. Salomon Exit Peak – Dark Clay and Autobahn
They’re lightweight, breathable, moisture wicking and water resistant.
3. Brasher Diablo XCR – Nut
The Vibram Planet sole unit provides exceptional grip; also includes Tex XCR technology.
4. Hi-Tec Auckland WP – Brown and Yellow
They include waterproof protection, moisture wicking lining, a great gripping outsole, as well as good looks.
5. New Balance – MO1520GT
The shoe is lightweight but hardwearing. It also sports the Tex XCR technology.
Shape Magazine, a U.S.-based magazine, recently awarded the New Balance 760 as the best overall walking shoe for women because of its shock-absorbing inserts under the heel and forefoot that help prevent fatigue. They also recognized the Reebok Easytone for its outsoles with protruding air-filled pods that may give walkers more “burn” with their routine.
The Right Fit
An excellent walking shoe may be selected based on model, brand or the specific support features that they provide. For example, some shoes are even designed to correct over-pronating or side-to-side heel roll. Nonetheless, selecting the right size is critical to optimal comfort and performance.
You may have gotten painful blisters and calluses from wearing shoes that are too narrow or too wide for your feet. Not having enough room for your toes at the front of your shoes can also contribute to the growth of bunions and hammertoes. Some stores, such as Nordstrom, allow you to purchase two different sizes of shoes, for those of us with one foot that is longer than the other.
Feet come in all sizes, widths, and arch types, and the more you know about your own feet, the better chance you will be able to find the right shoe for you.
References
Top 5 Walking Shoes, Walking.org, http://www.walking.org/p/top-5-walking-shoes
THIS SHOE’S FOR YOU. By: Shea, Sarah Bowen, Shape, 07445121, Apr2009, Vol. 28, Issue 8
