Choosing the right walking shoes

Whether you love going on long walks for pleasure, exercise, or just to run errands, finding a good pair of walking shoes is important for your health and comfort.

Walking shoes should be cushioned, flexible and breathable.

• The cushioning should be thickest in the heel area since it receives the most impact while walking.
• Walking shoes should also be supportive, to ensure the arch of your foot remains comfortable throughout your walk.
• Pick up the shoe in your hands while you’re shopping. Does it bend in your hands? If it does you've got a flexible shoe, which is exactly what you need in a good pair of walking shoes.

Since running shoes offer support, cushioning and flexibility (depending on the make and model), they can be a great option for walking shoes, too.

• Multi-purpose shoes, such as cross-trainers, are another good alternative if you want to combine workout methods, like walking, weight training and tennis or squash.

Because support is an important part of a good walking shoe, some shoes are not ideal for walking.

• Flip-flops and other thong-style sandals are not recommended because they require your toes to grip the sole in order to keep the shoe on the foot.
• This causes the foot to behave unnaturally and stresses out the feet and toes, which is not ideal for prolonged periods of walking.

Asking a trained employee at a shoe store or sports equipment retailer can be helpful in your search for the best walking shoes for you.

• It's important to explain your specific needs, such as being flat-footed or having high arches. The conditions may require that you purchase specialized shoes better suited to your feet.

Fit is a crucial element of a good walking shoe. No matter how expensive, high tech or reputable a brand or shoe is, if it isn't properly fitted to your foot size and shape, it will not be able to perform for you.

• Shoes that are too big or too small can give you discomfort and blisters, and in the long-term may cause serious injury to your foot.
• Ask a trained footwear employee to properly measure your feet before you go shopping.
• It’s best to measure your feet (both) at the end of the day when your feet have swollen to their maximum size.

Walking shoes come in a variety of styles, brands and colours, and you can expect to pay anywhere from about $50 for an inexpensive pair all the way up to $200 and more, for a reputable brand.

• Remember, paying more doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll get a better walking shoe. The most important thing is to find a shoe that fits you perfectly and is comfortable from morning until night.