Shoes
If you are interested in taking on walking as a recreational or exercise activity, you should probably look into purchasing a pair of walking shoes. Walking shoes are designed for slow or speed walking and not for running, jogging, training or hiking. You can find walking shoes in several sports and workout stores as well as numerous online websites. However, it is best to talk to a staff member who knows how to fit walking shoes and to try on the shoes in person before purchasing them on the Internet.
The physical process of walking involves a rolling motion from the heel of the foot to the toe. Walking shoes are specifically designed to bend at the ball of the foot as each step is completed. Without a flexible shoe, the muscles of the legs (namely, the ankle and shin) work against the movement of the feet, causing fatigue and possible injury.
It is incredibly important to wear walking shoes that facilitate the natural movement of the feet. Although most running shoes are not flexible in the right area, some can be used for walking. Unfortunately, large percentages of hiking boots are not bendable at all and merely provide ankle support and a good means of traction. When shopping for walking shoes, make sure they are made specifically for walking and not another sport.
How to Perform a Flex Test on Walking Shoes
First, grab the heel and toe of the shoe and try to force them together; if the bend occurs in the center of the arch rather than the ball, it is not meant for walking. Next, make sure the sides are twistable from side to side. Finally, put the shoe on a flat surface and put a bit of pressure on the toe; if the heel naturally lifts off the ground, you will know the shoe has a built in curve. This will help the entire foot roll gently with each step.
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