It is crucial to choose the right walking shoes to avoid injuries like blisters and calluses. A pair of walking shoes must be lightweight and must offer shock absorption. Not all walking shoes are the same. It would be best for you to know the features of womens walking shoes, before you choose the most suitable for you.
How Walking Shoes Differ
Waking shoes differ from running shoes in the way it addresses the user’s movements. Walkers strike the ground heels first, and they roll through the steps. On the contrary, runners strike the ground midsole first. The pair also requires a built-up heel to reduce the impact and a flared heel for stability. These features are not needed by any walker.
Basic Parts of a Walking Shoe
One way to narrow down your options for durable womens walking shoes is to be familiar with the basic parts. Take note that the way the shoes are built determines its fit and function.
Heel Collar: This is what cushions the ankle and ensures the appropriate fit.
Insole: This cushions and supports the foot and arch. Some insoles are removable and they can be laundered or at least taken out for drying after every use.
Outsole: This is the part that makes ground contact. Its grooves and treads can help in maintaining traction.
Upper: Thi is what holds the shoe on your foot. Usually this is made of leather, mesh, or any synthetic material. Mesh allows for more ventilation and it is also lightweight.
Achilles Tendon Protector: This reduces the stress on the Achilles tendon as it locks the shoe around the heel.
Toe Box: This provides sufficient space for the toes. A spacious toe box helps in preventing calluses.
Gel, Foam, or Air Midsole
This provides cushioning and reduces impact each time the foot strikes the ground.
Quality Test for Choosing the Right Shoes
For you to choose the right pair of walking shoes, it’s important to put every pair you prefer to such tests of quality:
Check the heel.
The heel must not be an inch higher compared to the sole under the ball of your foot. There must not be any flare as well.
Hold the shoes and twist them.
The shoes must twist latitudinally. They must also bend at the ball of the foot and not at the middle of the foot’s arch.
Put the shoes on the floor and poke the toes.
When the shoes are properly designed, the toes must be slightly off the ground. They must also rock a bit when poked.
When you walk in a way that the foot tilts inward too far toward the arch or in a condition known as overpronate, you will be in need of a pair of motion control shoes to help compensate.
