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JOIN NOWBest Shoes for Walking to Work: 2024
While I can't answer questions concerning the future of our world, I can at least answer two slightly more mundane queries (not to be under estimated) that are becoming increasingly popular.
1. Is it good to walk to work?
2. Are running shoes good for walking?
The short answer to both of these is a resounding “Yes!”
A more in depth reply would include the need to make sure the correct footwear is worn. In the same way that getting the right pair of running shoes is important, so also with shoes for walking. As I know from all too painful personal experience, when walking any length of time in 'dress' shoes or old trainers, it can be excruciating. Honestly, in my humble opinion life is too short to invite more pain into our lives than is strictly necessary.
What to look for when purchasing shoes for walking?
- Good cushioning
- Correct support (neutral or stability)
- Correct sole flexibility
- Soft, comfy upper material/mesh
- Correct fit around the back of the heel
How do you know which shoes are correct for you?
You don't need to worry, as we offer expert advice through our unique Natural Gait Analysis in-store and also our Online Gait Analysis.
I know how tempting it is to dive straight into picking a shoe out for yourself, but I would strongly advise taking a little extra time to visit our expert staff in-store or online. Our team has a wealth of knowledge and in the long run will save you time and possibly money. The amount of sad stories I hear from people who have spent money on the wrong shoes for them after innocently going with a friends advice. A note of caution..It's always good to remind yourself that just because your best friend loves one particular shoe, it doesn't mean it's going to necessarily be the correct fit for you.
Having said that, here are a few options to whet your walking appetite :)
Best Shoes for Walking on Pavements / Best Wide Shoes for Walking / Best Lightweight Shoes for Walking / Best Socks for Walking / More Accessories for Walking / Benefits of Walking / Lacing Tip
Best Socks for Walking to Work
So what else do you need for that perfect comfy walk to work? I'd say the next most important item is a good pair of socks.
You will be wearing socks, so why not make them a super comfy type? These can eliminate any blisters especially if your distance is on the longer end. An old cotton sock can really make the experience a bit miserable.
Just as with running, you want the sock to fit snugly around the foot, but not digging in anywhere. Another key element is making sure the sock is breathable and wicks the perspiration out, otherwise the moisture can create friction between the skin – the sock thus producing hot spots or blisters, none of which are enjoyable. I know the world of socks can be overwhelming as there are so many great options. So let's break it down:
The Classic No-Show Socks
The In-Betweener Anklet Socks
The Ultimate Crew Socks
Benefits of Walking to Work
Apart from having all the tip top gear, we also need the ever-important inspiration and motivation. So here are a few fun facts about the benefits of walking, to help you out the door and on your way...
- Improved physical fitness. If you move briskly enough to increase your heart-rate and breathing, walking can be a great cardio workout. A good test of your speed is if you can hold a conversation, but don't have enough breath to sing! Although singing has many benefits too :)
- Weight management. Walking may not burn as many calories per mile as running, but just 30 minutes can use around 200.
- Better all-round health. Walking not only gives your muscles a workout, it improves circulation and joint health as well. The impact also helps guard against the loss of bone mass.
- Better mental wellbeing. Physical activity releases endorphins, which have a positive impact on your mood. Walking to work gives you a chance of some quiet time alone to inwardly prepare yourself for the day; walking home helps you unwind and leave work stress behind. I particularly enjoy the latter.
- Takes pressure off the traffic. Walking helps reduce overcrowding on public transport, it saves you money, and is great for the environment.
Needless to say, we all have our own motivations to walk/run/jump, and often it relates to some kind of stress. If we do something and then feel better, the chances are we will do it again. So why not find your unique reason and walk with it ;-)
Lacing Your Shoes for Walking
Lastly... my top lacing tip:
It's really important that when walking you are not experiencing any slipping at the back of the heel. If, like me, you have a wider forefoot with a slimmer heel, then there's no need to sacrifice the width in the front of the foot.
All good running / walking shoes have an extra hole at the top of the eyelet. This can be used to give a snugger fit around the back of the heel, but if you criss cross the lacing as usual then it can cut into the top of the foot, so I like to do the loop lacing system. It's one of those tricky things to explain in writing, so check out my short video:
The Secrets of Running Shoe Laces »
Thank you for reading all the way to the end! As we all know, the benefits of walking are many and personally I love nothing better than a great physical and mental release. Walking can be a good wake up to start your day or a therapeutic detoxing of stressors from your day.
And remember, if you have any further questions, get in touch with our team or leave me a comment below. We are always here to help.
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