Athletic Walking Shoes So You Can Be Really Fit
Athletic Walking Shoes
If you walk for fitness, an athletic walking shoe is essential. You need a lightweight flexible shoe for maximum comfort. Everyone’s feet are different so the brand your best friend wears may not be right for you. Stay away from very trendy shoes and get a good basic style.
Take advantage of the salespeople in an athletic shoe store. They are familiar with the different brands and will be able to show you several options for your needs. Be sure to have them measure your feet because fit varies from one brand to another. You foot size may change as you age or with weight gain or loss. If you have been walking for a while, bring your old shoes and have the wear pattern checked. People new to fitness walking may want to have a gait analysis. Some people’s feet tend to roll outward. This is called underpronation and is common in people with high arches. Your shoes will tend to wear on the outer edges and a cushioned shoe with a soft midsole will be appropriate. Overpronation is common with flat feet and low arches. The feet tend to roll inward and the shoes will wear on the inside edge. A firm shoe with motion control and maximum support will help with this problem. If you have a neutral arch and your shoes show uniform wear, look for a stability shoe.
You want to get the best fit possible, so shop at the end of the day when your feet are at their largest. Bring your own socks and if you wear an orthotic, bring it with you. The shoes should fit with the orthotic in place. There should be about a thumb’s width of space between your big toe and the end of the shoe. You should be able to wiggle your toes freely. Walk or run around in the shoes to see how they feel in action. They should fit right out of the box. If they don’t, try another size or brand. The shoes should not slip at the heel. Every major manufacturer has a dizzying array of shoes to choose from, but don’t lose your focus. For people with heel pain, extra padded gel cushions in that area will bring relief. Some shoes have tongues that can be pumped up for a custom fit. You can get a good athletic walking shoe for around $80.00. The bigger price tag for celebrity endorsed shoes doesn’t necessarily mean a better shoe, so don’t overpay. On the other end of the spectrum a $15.00 shoe is unlikely to last or be as supportive.
Remember a good shoe is an investment in your fitness goal. So choose the best athletic walking shoes you can find.
