How to choose the best walking shoes

Whether you are looking for the best shoes for trail walking, a pair of waterproof walking shoes or shoes that offer ankle support, there are so many things to consider when buying walking shoes.

This guide will help you understand how to choose the best walking shoes for you. Making sure you have the right footwear for the activities you enjoy outdoors will help you get the most out of your leisure time.

Is there a difference between men’s and women’s walking shoes?

It’s not just in colours that men’s and women’s walking shoes differ.

The most important difference is that men’s walking shoes are finished on a larger ‘last’ by manufacturers to give them a wider fit. They also tend to weigh a little more and may have slightly higher ankle support. 

Having said this, if you have a particular foot shape that makes a man’s or a woman’s shoe fit more comfortably, then go with the fit, not your gender.

What factors should you consider when choosing walking shoes?

To choose the right walking shoe it is important you are clear about the types of walks you are going to be using them for.

The sorts of factors to consider include:

• The likely weather or climate
• The style of walking (for example trekking, running, ambling)
• The terrain where you will walk
• The comfort and fit you prefer

Are walking shoes or walking boots best?

To help you decide whether you need walking shoes or boots, here are the main differences between them. 

• If you are going to need to carry your footwear, walking shoes tend to be considerably lighter 
• For flat trails, with little climb, the heavier weight of boots may slow you down
• Walking shoes are much less restrictive and help you to stay agile and nimble 
• When the weather is hot walking shoes will be much cooler on your feet than boots 
• Generally speaking, boots offer more ankle support than a walking shoe 
• Walking shoes provide less robust protection for your feet should anything fall or press down on it

How do you know what to look for in a walking shoe?

The upper

The upper is the part of the shoe above the sole. 

The material that this is made from can vary greatly but may include leather, suede or other fabrics such as mesh.

If you are going on longer walks it is important the material your shoe is made from is breathable. This will provide air to your feet and let moisture out. 

Similarly, if you are likely to be walking in all weathers then you will want to ensure you buy a waterproof walking shoe that can withstand the rain from above and the puddles on the ground.

For instance, the ASICS GEL-SONOMA™ running and walking shoe is designed for trail runs, light hiking and outdoor adventures in all weathers. Its GORE-TEX™ upper will keep your feet dry in even the wettest of conditions.

The insole

The insole is the removable base of your walking shoe that sits immediately under the foot. Ideally, you should have an insole made from a high-density EVA foam that offers plenty of cushion for your feet as you walk.

The midsole

The midsole sits between the outsole and the inner sole.

This should be designed to provide cushioning and shock absorption, as well as be strong enough to prevent sharp objects from piercing your feet from underneath. 

Midsoles are typically made from EVA or Phylon, but many ASICS walking shoes benefit from the supreme comfort offered by the latest materials, such as AMPLIFOAM™.

The outsole

The outsole forms the very bottom of the shoe. Most are made from rubber compounds for traction and durability.

Walking shoes with lightweight, thin soles will be less durable and offer less grip. They will, however, be more flexible and significantly lighter. 

Some walking shoes will have similar soles to walking boots. These will be heavier but much sturdier and more robust. If the sturdiest of soles is important to you, Vibram is a compound of rubber, silicon and carbon that is similar to what car tyres are made from.

An example of how design, as well as material, can improve the outsole is the latest version of the ASICS GEL-VENTURE™. This has been made more durable with a re-engineered traction pattern and lugs under the heel. 

Is leather or non-leather best for your walking shoe?

The real decision you make when choosing between leather or non-leather is one of durability overweight or vice versa.

Leather walking shoes are more durable than those made from fabric, but this means they are also heavier and take time to become comfortable on your feet. 

The other main difference with fabric shoes is that the material will be much more breathable.

What is the perfect fit for your walking shoes?

When buying walking shoes here are three simple tests to help you find your perfect pair.

• Make sure your toes aren't at the very front of the shoe Your toes should have some room for movement. If you can just about squeeze a finger behind your Achille's tendon, then you have a perfect fit.
• Check the width The upper will soften with time, but the midsole won't. The midsole should cradle your foot from side to side perfectly.
• Wear your shoes inside before going out. This gives you time to ensure you have made the right decision and allows the opportunity to change your shoes if you need to.

Enjoy the great outdoors

With your super-comfortable, breathable and waterproof walking shoes on your feet you are now free to get out there and enjoy the great outdoors, whatever the weather. 

See you on the trail.