The Best Arch Support Walking Shoes

Author
by SHAWNA VAN TREASE 

The best walking shoe for someone who needs arch support is, like all walking shoes, one that is comfortable and fits properly, so be sure that any walking shoe you try on provides stability, is flexible in the mid-sole, and fits the length and width of both of your feet. When it comes to arch support, look for walking shoes designed to provide support particular to the type of arch you have, whether it be a high, neutral, or low arch, the Mayo Clinic advises.

Common Pitfalls

Don’t be tempted to buy shoes labeled “running shoes” or “aerobics shoes” without being absolutely certain that they will provide your arches with the support they need. These shoes are designed to cushion the foot during high-impact exercise, and their design differs from that of walking shoes, which are more flexible at the ball of the foot in order to accommodate the foot’s rolling heel-to-toe movement as you take a step.

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Where to Buy

The American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine recommends buying shoes from an established specialty store so that you can work with a knowledgeable athletic wear professional as you search for your perfect walking shoe with arch support. Once you know which brand and size of shoe is best for your foot, you can always buy the next pair somewhere else.

Cost

Good walking shoes--for all arch types--are easily found for under $100, as noted on the-fitness-walking-guide.com. Going very far under $100 will likely leave you with a shoe of inferior quality, so try to stick to brands known for their quality materials, and make your purchase decision based on the most quality you can get within your budget.

Comparison Shopping

When trying on walking shoes consider checking out Asics, Brooks, New Balance, and Saucony. As explained on the-fitness-walking-guide.com, all of these brands rate highly in quality walking shoes for both women and men, and they offer options for all types of arches. Of course if you find a different brand of shoe that works best for you, go with that one.

Insider Tips

Contrary to popular belief, an uncomfortable shoe is unlikely to become comfortable over time. However, you may discover that the comfortable shoe you wore in the store is not so comfortable during your walk, so ask about the store’s exchange policy, just in case. And before you even go to the store, know which type of arch you have so that you are sure to get the best arch support for you. One trick is to wet your feet and then step on a piece of cardboard or paper grocery bag. If you can see most of your foot, your arch is low; if you don’t see much of your foot on the paper your arch is high. To be extra certain, feel free to take a well-worn pair of walking shoes to the store with you so the salesperson can help to ascertain which type of arch you have.

For further information log on website :
http://www.livestrong.com/article/238626-the-best-arch-support-walking-shoes/

The Best Walking Shoes That Are Appropriate for Work

Author
by MICHELLE HOGAN 

Finding shoes that are good for walking and are appropriate in style for the workplace can be a challenge. Whether your job requires that you walk a lot or you like to walk to and from work or take a walk at lunch, you need supportive shoes that are both comfortable and attractive. When looking for walking shoes that are suitable for work, find an insole that will mold to your feet to prevent foot fatigue. A mesh lining or upper will allow your foot to breathe and keep moisture from building up. A thicker sole, even in a dress shoe, will provide more comfort and more stability when walking. A flexible midsole is also an important feature in any work shoe, but particularly in a shoe meant for a lot of walking. There are many shoes in a sneaker style now available in more work-appropriate colors, so if you can wear a casual shoe for work, this may be an option for you. Some clogs, often called "Euro clogs," are ergonomic, polished for a good work look, have thick soles and have good stability and comfort ratings.

Common Pitfalls

Shop for your walking work shoes at the end of the day, when your feet are slightly swollen and possibly fatigued from being on them a lot. Go right from work, so you'll be wearing the same kind of socks that you would normally wear. Make sure to have both feet fitted. Some people's feet are not identical in size. Walk around in your shoes before buying. If you go up and down stairs, try and find a place to step up and down a few times to get an idea of what it feels like. Check with the store about their return policy, so that you can return them in the proper condition if they don't suit your walking habits.

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Where To Buy

Purchase good walking shoes for work at shoe stores, stores that sell work uniforms, online shoe stores and department stores. "Shoes for Crews" offers many different styles of shoes in suitable colors and styles for different types of work.

Cost

As of September, 2010, a black women's Euro Clog with the Shoes For Crews slip-resistant outsole, lightweight, flexible midsole and cushioned insoles with an ergonomic design is offered for $56 through the Shoes For Crews website. Other shoes suitable for walking at work range between $30 and $150 depending on the brand and style of shoe.

For further information log on website :
http://www.livestrong.com/article/243962-the-best-walking-shoes-that-are-appropriate-for-work/

The Best Shoes for Walking on Ice

Author
by LUCY DALE 

When you're walking on ice, you need a pair of shoes that will support you and help you prevent injury. If you are searching for the best shoes for walking on ice, consider the bottom of the shoe first. For walking on ice, you want a shoe with large treads, or raised patterns, to help your feet keep their grip on the ground. In addition, rubber soles will prevent you from slipping and help you keep your balance. The best shoes have completely waterproof soles. Inside the shoe, look for good insulation: the best shoes for walking on ice will have linings made of Thinsulate or other materials created to keep warmth locked in. Finally, make sure the shoe has stability features, like a well-cushioned heel cup and insole, to help support your body weight.

Common Pitfalls

Although materials and construction play the biggest role in creating the best shoes for walking on ice, shoppers commonly overlook other important factors. Make sure your shoe fits snugly; if it doesn't, no amount of technology will keep you from slipping on ice.

In addition, don't automatically discount lightweight shoes. While in the past, the best winter shoes were made out of heavier materials, today's technology allows manufacturers to create high-quality winter shoes that are far less heavy than they once were. Examine the construction of the shoe and try it on before you discount it.

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Where to Buy

While most shoe stores carry shoes for regular walking, they won't necessarily carry the best shoes for walking on ice. To find these shoes, search stores geared toward outdoor athletes, such as REI or Sierra Trading Post. These stores often have hiking boots and other types of shoes specifically created for harsh conditions and help let you find the perfect shoe for you.

While these retailers do have websites, buy your first pair of shoes for walking on ice in person so you can examine their construction up-close and make sure they fit your foot snugly. After you have worn them for a while and seen if they work for you, feel free to purchase your second pair online.

Cost

Normal walking shoes cost between $40 and $100. However, shoes for walking on ice will cost significantly more, as they use high-tech materials and more complex engineering. Expect to pay about as much as you would for a running shoe: between $80 and $120 is a good range to keep in mind. While this may seem steep, the best shoes for walking on ice will keep you from slipping and falling, preventing injury. Therefore, they're worth the extra money you will spend.

For further information log on website :
http://www.livestrong.com/article/241692-the-best-shoes-for-walking-on-ice/

The Best Walking Shoes to Prevent Stress Fractures of the Foot

Author
by MICHELLE LEACH 

Running shoes designed to prevent small breaks in the bones of the feet are not the same as walking shoes that aim to do the same. The motion is different, according to a walking information community called The Walking Site. A walker's heel makes contact with the ground first and then rolls up to the toe, so the walker needs a more pliable sole and toe area than the runner, according to the website. You'll also want a shoe with a heel cup that, according to foot and ankle specialist Dr. Stephen M. Pribut, has support so your foot doesn't slip around.

Common Pitfalls

You may have the urge to shop for brand, but the key is to shop for fit. You'll want to try on your shoes after a walk because your foot expands during exercise, according to The Walking Site. When you try on the shoes, wear the socks you usually wear for walks. Dr. Pribut also suggests looking at wear from you old shoes; if the front of the sole has a lot of wear, particularly under the second or third toe, and the heel has little, you may have a condition called Morton's Foot, which makes you more prone to fractures--and makes the right balance of flexibility and support all the more important.

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Where to Buy

Dr. Pribut said you may have your best chance of finding a good walking shoe at a specialty or sports store. Generally speaking, The Walking Site recommends any store that will allow you to "test" out the shoe by walking on a hard surface for at least 10 minutes. If it takes going to a more expensive store to do that, it's worth the money for the right fit, according to the site. Fleet Feet Sports, a national specialty chain, evaluates how you walk in-store to determine the best model and fit for your feet.

Cost

Shoes boasting flexible toes and sturdy heel cups can be found in all price ranges. In a June 25, 2010, report on Walking Shoe Reviews, website editor Jackie Burns identified the top 10 brands of walking shoes. The pairs of shoes that fell under these brands in the report ranged from $50 to $300. Those on the upper end of the price range were usually the most up-to-the-minute styles and boasted more rugged features, such as hiking shoes.

Accessories

The Foot and Ankle Center of Washington recommends customized orthotics--inserts that aim to transfer some of the stress from an area susceptible to fracture to other parts of the foot. An item that walkers can't live without are socks. Outdoor fitness company REI recommends walkers look for socks that have cushioning and pull moisture away from the sock so it doesn't get soaked.

Insider Tips

Worn-out shoes are a major cause of stress fractures, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. It's recommended walkers switch out their shoes every 300 to 600 miles. Signs of wear include outsoles that appear rubbed-down, heel cups that are tilted outward and holes in the toes, according to Pribut. The Walking Site also recommends you walk around the house for a few days before hitting the pavement to get accustomed to your new pair.

For further information log on website :
http://www.livestrong.com/article/248278-the-best-walking-shoes-to-prevent-stress-fractures-of-the-foot/

The Best Shoes for Walking or Standing

Author
by ASHLEY LORELLE 

If you enjoy walking every day, even casually, or if you are standing for long periods, then your shoe is one of your most important possessions. Sneakers are the best kind of shoe if you plan to do a lot of standing or walking. Because people use their shoes so much, it is important that your shoes have a great fit. Consider how lightweight and breathable the shoe is, whether the toe of the shoe is wide enough to allow your toes to move freely, and whether the heel area is snug enough so your heel won't slip when you walk. Shoes should also be flexible and have low heels. According to The Walking Site, " A walker's foot hits heel first and then rolls gradually from heel-to-toe. So, you will need a flexible sole and more bend in the toe than a runner. You should be able to twist and bend the toe area."

Common Pitfalls

A common mistake that people make when shopping for shoes is shopping in a hurry and buying the first pair of shoes they try on. It is unlikely that the first shoes you try will be the right pair for your feet. Take your time and shop around to find the perfect fit. Know your foot type before you buy--do you have flat feet or feet with high arches? Also, buy shoes after you have been on your feet for a while, giving your feet time to swell. This will help you find the right fit.

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Where to Buy

While online stores offer a wider variety of sizes and widths to fit all feet, trying on shoes at a store known for its athletic shoes, like Foot Locker or Finish Line, allows you to experiment with different fits and brands so you can find the perfect shoe for your foot. Other vendors, including Ryka and The Walking Company, specialize in marketing comfortable shoes meant for long periods of walking or standing.

Cost

Shoes at The Walking Company cost between $100 and $250, but their shoes are designed for comfort. Ryka walking shoes cost around $60 to $70. If you shop for sneakers at The Foot Locker, expect to pay between $30 and $100.

Insider Tips

Before venturing outdoors, wear your shoes in the house for a few days to break them in and make sure they are going to work for you. If it doesn't seem like they are, exchange them.

Keep track of how many miles you walk. The Walking Site recommends that you replace your shoes every 300 to 600 miles. If you have a pair of walking shoes, wear them only for walks. If you have a pair of comfortable shoes for work, wear them only for work to extend the life of the shoe.

For further information log on website :
http://www.livestrong.com/article/238534-the-best-shoes-for-walking-or-standing/