To stay fit as you age, you don’t need to pump iron or run marathons — all you need to do is take a brisk walk a few days a week. Walking has many benefits, from strengthening your muscles to helping you shed unwanted pounds, making it a great addition to any fitness plan. Despite these benefits, walking does put extra stress on your feet, especially if you have plantar fasciitis, bunions or another type of foot problem. You can relieve some of this stress by wearing supportive footwear that doesn’t pinch your toes or cause blisters to form on your heels or ankles. If you’re thinking about making walking a part of your daily routine, try on some of these walking shoes and buy the pair that offers the highest level of comfort in your price range.
New Balance Hook-and-Loop MW577
The New Balance hook-and-loop style consistently ranks among the best shoes for older adults as it features a Velcro strap, eliminating the need to bend down and tie your shoes multiple times per day. The Velcro strap also makes it easy to slide your shoes off when you come inside and slide them back on when you’re ready to go out again. Lightweight leather keeps your feet cool and prevents foot odor, and built-in technology provides extra shock absorption to reduce soreness. The MW577 is designed for men, but the smaller sizes are also ideal for women who need extra support during their walks.
Propet Women’s TourWalker
Like the New Balance hook-and-loop MW577, the Propet TourWalker has Velcro straps, eliminating the need to fumble with shoelaces. Featuring 100% leather uppers and a sturdy rubber sole, the TourWalker is designed to provide extra cushioning exactly where you need it, leaving you invigorated instead of sore after a long walk. While no shoe can completely prevent falls, the TourWalker’s thick sole can help you maintain your balance on a variety of surfaces, from the local supermarket to nearby walking trails.
Skechers Go Walk 4
If you’re looking for something a little more casual, the Skechers Go Walk 4 is a good choice. Available in men’s and women’s sizes, the Go Walk 4 has a synthetic sole that grips walking surfaces better than other shoes, reducing the risk of slips and falls. The thick heel does an admirable job of absorbing shocks while walking, and the footbed is cushioned with memory foam to ensure your comfort. The Go Walk 4 is available in both suede and leather, making it easy to incorporate these shoes into your wardrobe.
Propet Sandals for Men and Women
Walking sandals are ideal if you’re a casual walker living in a warm environment as they give your feet room to breathe, increasing your comfort and making walking more fun. Propet offers comfortable sandals for both men and women. The women’s Pedic Walker sandal has a thick insole to cushion your foot while ensuring its stability, providing much-needed support when you’re trying to get more exercise. If you’re diabetic, it’s also important to note that the Pedic walker sandal has been awarded the “diabetic-friendly” shoe designation, which means you may be able to use your Medicare benefits to defray the cost of purchasing a pair.
For men, the Propet Kona Fisherman sandal is a good choice. It has an open design to increase air circulation, keeping you cool and comfortable even if you go for a walk when the sun is blazing. The footbed is well-cushioned to reduce the stress on your feet, making the Kona Fisherman ideal if you spend several hours a day walking or standing. Propet Kona Fisherman sandals are also known for their durability, which is due in part to the use of a Neoprene lining.
Hush Puppies Gil Slip-On
The Hush Puppies brand is known for comfort and reliability, making the Gil slip-on a good investment. Made for men, these slip-on shoes have a 100% leather upper to keep you cool and comfortable. The synthetic sole is a little thicker than the soles on other shoes, which may help you maintain your balance as you increase your activity level. What makes these shoes especially good for older adults is the incorporation of Zero-G material into the outsole. This lightweight material absorbs shock, providing extra protection for the delicate bones and tendons in your feet.
Propet TravelActiv for Women
It can be difficult for women with wide feet to find shoes that are both attractive and comfortable, especially if you need a wide toe box and a narrower heel. Propet TravelActiv shoes for women can help you solve this problem. Although the toe box has plenty of room, the heel is not too wide, making these shoes ideal if you’ve had trouble finding comfortable wide-width shoes in the past. The shoes also feature an attractive design, making it easy to combine fashion with functionality.
Whether you already live at Riddle Village or you’re thinking about moving in soon, these walking shoes will keep you comfortable all day long. Give us a call today to find out how you can become part of an independent living community that offers plenty of opportunities to stay active.