If the Shoe Fits: Choosing a Walking Shoe

Nov 3, 2011 by admin

Not everyone is so enthused about exercising that he has memberships to three gyms, has exercise equipment in the corner of his family room and has three-, five- and ten-mile running routes mapped with alternating terrain challenges. Most of us fall far below that level of commitment, and for those of us just starting an exercise program, walking is an excellent starting point that often becomes the foundation of a regular routine. However, even the most dedicated newbie can suffer injury and become discouraged quickly if he wears the wrong shoes while walking.

Picture someone in shorts and a t-shirt on a warm day. He has his towel, watch, sunglasses and wallet tucked safely away, and off he goes. By the time he reaches the first corner, he has a blister; his ankles are sore, and he’s sure his arches have fallen.

Who knew wearing high heels was bad for walking for exercise? The right—or wrong—shoe makes a difference!

When you are beginning a walking exercise regime, don’t buy the most expensive walking shoe you can afford. They should be a separate pair of shoes from your everyday pair, but you don’t have to clean out your bank account. Determine your budget and start looking about mid-range.

You want to look for certain construction elements, comfort and fit. Your first pair of walking shoes may not last very long: You might change your mind or determine you like it so well that you want an even better pair. But look for support first.

Walking shoes have wide sole bases. Some models have soles as wide or wider than the actual shoe material that covers your foot. That wide base steadies and supports your stride, and it’s very important.

Next, look for cushioning in the sole. Walking doesn’t present as high of impact on your bones, joints and muscles, but there’s more than what’s experienced just sitting on the couch playing video games. Give yourself that bit of ease and comfort.

Make sure there is adequate arch support. Even if you don’t have fallen arches naturally, what support you can provide the bone structure in your foot can only benefit you—so long as it’s still comfortable enough when you’re walking. If there is inadequate arch support built into the shoe, purchase separate inserts that provide it.

Ensure you can fasten the shoes comfortably without pinching any part of your foot, yet not allow the foot to “swim” in the shoe at all. Allow the proper size toe box for your foot: Squeezing toes together just to look good while you walk is counterproductive to maintaining a walking exercise routine. If your foot, leg or back hurts when you walk, although you look good doing it, you won’t continue, and you loose all the physical and mental health benefits from this terrific cardio- and muscular exercise.

Make sure your walking shoe fits, and when the shoe fits, wear it often and well as you walk for exercise, fun and socialization!

Article by Holly Miller, who writes for Coupon Croc. Shop online for footwear and save when you use discount codes fromCouponCroc.co.uk.