The benefits of buying walking shoes at night are often overlooked, but experts suggest that doing so can have a significant impact on your overall health and comfort. Regular walks in a reliable pair of shoes are one of the best forms of exercise you can do, and all you need is a good pair of walking shoes. Wearing poorly fitting shoes can lead to a host of painful side effects, including bunions, blisters, plantar fasciitis, and pain in the feet, hips, and lower back.
When shopping for the best women’s walking shoes, experts recommend considering several key factors to ensure you find the perfect pair. These factors include the material of the shoes, traction, cushioning, support, insole, heel drop, weight, and return policy/trial period. Each of these elements plays a crucial role in providing comfort, support, and protection for your feet while walking.
Material is an important consideration when choosing walking shoes. Different materials are suitable for different situations, so it’s essential to think about where you typically walk and the weather conditions you encounter. For example, if you walk long distances in hot climates, a breathable material like mesh is ideal. On the other hand, if you walk on rocky terrain, leather may be a better option for durability.
Traction is another essential factor to consider. Walking shoes should provide stability and a good grip to help prevent injury. Look for options with rubber outsoles, which perform well on various surfaces, including trails, pavement, and asphalt tracks. A shock-absorbent rubber outsole can also help alleviate the impact of each step, providing added comfort while walking.
Cushioning is key to the overall comfort of your shoes. The amount of padding in the midsole of the shoe can significantly impact how comfortable your feet feel while walking. Materials like memory foam, ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA), or gel are commonly used for cushioning and help minimize the impact of each step on your feet.
Support is crucial for ensuring your shoes fit properly and support the shape of your foot. It’s essential to choose a shoe designed for your arch type (high, neutral, or flat) to prevent issues like arch pain or plantar fasciitis. Make sure the shoe’s flex point aligns with your foot’s bending point to avoid discomfort or injury.
The insole of the shoe also plays a significant role in providing comfort and support. Look for shoes with a memory foam footbed or an EVA anti-compression insole for added comfort and arch support. If you wear custom orthotics or need shoe inserts, opt for sneakers with removable insoles for added flexibility.
Heel drop, or offset, refers to the height difference between the heel and toe of a shoe. A lower heel drop is typically more comfortable for walkers who strike the ground with their heel first. Look for walking shoes with a heel drop of no more than 8 millimeters to reduce stress on the Achilles tendon and ensure a more natural stride.
Weight is another important consideration when choosing walking shoes. Lightweight options are ideal for speed walking, long-distance walks, or extended periods of walking. Shoes that weigh 8 ounces or less are considered lightweight and can help reduce fatigue and strain on your feet and legs.
When shopping for walking shoes, it’s essential to consider the return policy and trial period offered by the brand or retailer. This allows you to try out the shoes and ensure they are comfortable and supportive before committing to them for long-term use.
To help you find the best women’s walking shoes, we’ve compiled a list of expert picks and NBC Select staff recommendations. Each of these shoes offers unique features and benefits to cater to different needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for stability, cushioning, breathability, or support for specific foot types, there’s a shoe on our list that’s perfect for you.
In conclusion, choosing the right pair of walking shoes is essential for your comfort, support, and overall health while walking. By considering factors like material, traction, cushioning, support, insole, heel drop, weight, and return policy/trial period, you can find the perfect pair of shoes to meet your needs. Whether you’re walking for exercise, leisure, or commuting, investing in a reliable pair of walking shoes can make a significant difference in your walking experience.
