When was the last time you really thought about the shoes you wear when you go for a walk? The best walking shoes aren't just fancy or trendy - they should be comfortable, supportive and durable. And while you don't necessarily need to buy a pair of sneakers specifically for walking, it can't hurt.

 

Yes, walking shoes are technically different from running and hiking shoes. "Walking shoes are designed to provide stability during a walk," explains Saylee Tulpule, D.P.M., a podiatrist at Foot and Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic in Maryland. "Compared to running shoes, walking shoes are heavier, which helps maintain a slower, more consistent pace.

 

But with thousands of options vying for a role in your next walk, it can feel impossible to find the exact right pair. Start by considering the needs of your feet. "People try to squeeze their foot into a shoe instead of choosing a shoe that fits your foot," says Dan Giordano, D.P.T., C.S.C.S., co-founder and director of physical therapy at Bespoke Treatments in New York City. "Look for a shoe that doesn't squeeze your foot into the shoe, that gives you room in the toe area and that holds your heel securely."

 

Ready to get started? Read on to find out how to find the running shoes that work best for you, and then discover the absolute best pairs as determined by podiatrists and reviewers.

 

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