What Walking Shoes Do Podiatrists Recommend — 10 Top Picks
Walking has been the basic means of transportation for humans for as long as history can tell. It also comes with some side-effects such as feet and leg pains and whatnot.
As human society developed, shoes were invented to protect our feet as well as give comfort. However, not all shoes offer the comfort we all desire especially for special cases. Since podiatrists know better, we decided to find out from them.
Therefore, this article answers the question: What walking shoes do podiatrists recommend? We are certain you’ll find a walking shoe that meets your need: Even if you’ll be using the shoes for exercise, travel, daily, etc. there’s a walking shoe recommended just for you.
Factors to Look Out For When Buying a Walking Shoe
Before you purchase a walking shoe, there are certain factors to look out for. Podiatrists insist that a good walking shoe must have these features and we’ll briefly discuss them.
Good Arch Support
There are different types of foot arch; therefore, it is recommended you choose a shoe that supports your foot arch.
Having good arch support gives your big toe flexibility as well as adequate alignment.
Balance
Your walking shoe must have the right balance and stability to support you while you walk. Hence, it is advisable you test the shoe (walk around with it) for at least 5 minutes to be sure of its balance.
Look out for shoes with a rigid heel counter and a hybrid or straight last. Shoes with these features are known for their balance and stability.
Right fit
Do not purchase a shoe that does not fit. Do not gamble on your feet’s health with a small shoe because you think it will stretch over time. Do not buy a shoe simply because you like it.
Always measure and get the right width and length of your foot anytime you want to buy a walking shoe. A Brannock Device can be quite helpful for such tasks.
The best time of the day to buy a walking shoe as recommended by most podiatrists is at the day’s end. At this time, your feet are swollen which allows you to pick a shoe that will be comfortable all through the day.
Breathability
You must choose a shoe that is made from a material that allows your feet to breathe. In other words, the material must allow airflow through to your feet.
A breathable material will prevent your feet from sweating and discomfort. It also helps with odor management.
Flex Point
The point where a walking shoe bends while one walks is known as the flex point.
For you to enjoy comfort while you walk, podiatrists recommend you choose a shoe that has a flex point that matches the point where your own foot bends.
Plantar fasciitis and arch pain are caused when your foot doesn’t align with the flex point of your walking shoes.
To find out the flex point of a shoe you want to buy, just hold it at the heel and press the toe point on the ground. Where the shoe bends and creases form on the shoe is its flex point.
Wide Toe Box
Folks with wide toes are recommended to go for walking shoes with wide toe box. This will help you overcome the compression of your toes in such tight spaces.
Apart from that, you reduce the risk of suffering from hammertoes, bunions, and neuromas.
Know Your Foot Type
Knowing the factors to look out for in a walking shoe is not enough. Like the famous maxim says “know thyself”, but in this case, you need to “know your foot type”.
As you might have noticed while growing up or even when you became an adult that we do not have the same foot type. And it has been proven that there are 3 major types of foot. This is based on which part of your foot touches the ground first when you walk.
As a result, we all fall into one of these three categories: supinator, neutral, or pronator (over-pronation).
It is therefore important you find out which of these categories you belong to as it determines to a large extent the kind of shoes you can use.
Walking Shoes Recommended by Podiatrists
Now that we’ve discussed some features your walking shoe must have, which shoes have these features and are recommended by podiatrists? Check out the list below:
Hoka One One Bondi 6
The Hoka One One Bondi 6 is well-cushioned underfoot which makes it suitable for hiking and long walks. It is designed with a Meta-Rocker to enhance stability and make each step comfortable because of the smooth flow from the heel down to the toe.
Podiatrists recommend it for those who despite having foot challenges have decided to continue their walking exercises and routines. It is also good for seniors because of its lightweight.
New Balance 1165 V1 Fresh Foam
This walking shoe is cushioned with foam for all those foam-cushioned shoe lovers. As a result, it is super light; in fact, it is said to be among the lightest shoes ever.
It is also made from synthetic material which makes it a durable shoe designed to last for a long time.
Another feature of this shoe is that the inserts are removable; hence, you can put inserts of your choice.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20
GTS (go to shoe) walking shoes are known to be a bit expensive and are worth every penny. This is true for the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20.
It is designed with BioMoGo DNA technology. This technology allows the shoe to adjust to your movement and foot patterns. In other words, it adapts to fit and suit your walking.
Podiatrists recommend this shoe for folks with low arches or neutral arches. Its balance, stability, and shock control (thanks to its extra padding) makes it suitable for these groups of people.
Asics Gel Contend 5
Podiatrists recommend the Asics Gel Contend 5 for anyone who engages in daily walks. This walking shoe is designed with adequate cushion through the AmpliFoam midsole. Its stability and balance is a major plus as well.
The inner material is breathable which gives your feet the needed comfort while you walk for long distances without having sweaty feet. Also, the Ortholite sock liner helps in getting rid of feet moisture as well as providing comfort and support.
- Designed for low-mileage running and daily use.
- Lightweight, durable, and superior traction.
- Predecessor: GEL-Contend 4.
- Support Type: Neutral to underpronation.
- Breathable mesh and synthetic upper materials.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
New Balance 990 V5
Looking for walking shoe with a classic look, then look no further than the New Balance 990 V5. It is perfect for those who don’t want shoes that attract attention.
New Balance has been in the business for over 70 years and they still deliver stable well-cushioned quality walking shoes.
This pair remains true to the dedication of the brand. It is adequately cushioned and is designed with a breathable upper.
Vionic Classic Walker
The Vionic Classic Walker is designed to be resistant to the elements of weather. It is suitable for wet conditions thanks to its water-resistant membrane. During sunny conditions, its mesh liner wicks moisture to ensure your feet stay dry and cool.
This walking shoe also has biomechanical orthotic and antibacterial top cover that allows the shoe to retain a fresh smell after wearing it several times.
Altra Torin 4
The Altra Torin 4 is designed with balanced cushioning like all Altra walking shoes. This allows your foot to attain perfect alignment while you walk because the forefoot and the heel meet the ground equally.
If you are used to higher heel drop shoes, you will need to break into the Altra Torin 4 gently while walking because it is a zero-drop shoe. If you don’t break slowly, you might end up with Achilles tendinitis.
Podiatrists have recommended this shoe for those with normal heel width and wide foot. Folks with neuroma and bunion will benefit from this walking shoe.
Orthofeet Women’s Sneaker
Podiatrists recommend this shoe for those with heel pain, plantar fasciitis, and other foot problems.
This walking shoe offers superb comfort and style. It is designed with a protecting interior that offers air cushioning. As its name implies, it is orthotic friendly thanks to its great arch support, cushioned heels, and wide toe box.
Asics Women’s Gel-Quickwalk 3
This is another women’s shoe designed by Asics for women that are heavy-footed. As a result, it is a heavy walking shoe, but still very durable.
It has a rear gel cushion that absorbs any shock your feet might have felt. Hence, they are also good for long walks. Also, all types of foot arch can use this pair of walking shoes.
New Balance 928v3 Women’s Walking Shoe
Like the New Balance 990 V5, the New Balance 928 V3 Women’s Walking Shoe doesn’t call attention to itself.
Despite its classic look, this walking shoe packs some heavy features that offer plenty of comforts. It has a compression-molded EVA lined midsole which supports and cushion your feet. The outsole is very durable to last for long. You can also remove the footbed.
Podiatrists recommend this shoe for folks with pedal deformities due to its wide toe box, balance, and arch support.
Check out the video below.
Conclusion
At this point, we believe you’ve found a walking shoe that suits your need.
If you have further questions, please let us know in the comments section below.
