As an avid flaneuse, i.e. one who flaneurs, I love to walk as much as I can - be it in Calgary or whenever I am exploring another city. But as I get older and heavier (dare I say fatter), I find it harder and harder on my feet. As someone told me, “It is like you are carrying a 40 lb backpack around every day.” Yikes!

I am a sucker for a sale at Costco or pretty much any shoe store with a sale on for that matter. It doesn’t help that my local shopping centre has three shoe stores in it.

And, as a thrifter, I can’t pass up an opportunity to buy a pair of “like new” Sketcher, Ecco, Merrell or Rockport shoes for $20 or less.

As a result, I have 15 pairs of shoes for everyday use, 3 pairs of sandals, 1 pair of dress shoes and 8 pairs of golf shoes. That’s 26 in total. (I added three more between the time I started this blog and posting it).

My thinking is; if I buy enough pairs, at least one of them will make walking easier on my feet.

And yes, I have tried orthotics and they didn’t really help. And yes again, I have read many articles on the best walking shoes, but they were all expensive. Better to buy 10 shoes at $20, rather than take a chance on one shoe for $200. Or is it?

Hmmmm…perhaps it is time to visit Canadian Footwear and see what they would recommend.

Backstory.

Canadian Footwear is a family owned business that was formed in 1932 in Winnipeg by Bert Scharfstein and his wife who passed away in the ‘80s. Today is it owned by his son Brian and his partner Pam Cipryk. Brian decided he wanted to learn everything he could about the orthotic industry by enrolling in a Pedorthist class in Chicago. From 1986-1990 Brian went back to school to become a Certified Pedorthist. During this time his partner Pam, developed the infrastructure to enable the business to grow.
Brian's Pedorthic certification marked a significant change in the company. Canadian Footwear began to specialize, focusing on our customers' needs, providing education, service and the best in quality footwear and accessories available to create their; “We Fit You” experience.

So, I headed out to Canadian Footwear’s Dalhousie station location, which is where I met one of their “we fit you” experts - Chris. Turns out he is also a blogger, so I asked him if he’d be interested in collaborating on a blog about how to choose the best shoe for walking.

Here are Chris’ “Shoe Fitting Tips.”

1. The starting point, when you're at your local shoe store, make sure you have your foot measured because foot size and shape changes with age. Don't rely on the fact you have always worn the same shoe size. Always get measured!

2. Ideally, go to store with experienced salespeople who have been properly trained on how to fit shoes and not just on the specs of the shoes. The good ones will always want to measure your foot first.

3. If you wear orthotics, bring them with you! This should be obvious, but if I had dollar for every time someone said “I left my orthotics at home,” I’d be rich.

4. Examine the shape of your potential new walking shoe to ensure it resembles the shape of your foot. Always check the length and width of the new walking shoe. A slightly wider fit in the toe box will eliminate any rubbing in the forefoot. The widest part of your foot should fit comfortable in the widest part of the shoe. If the tip of the shoe is too small, your toes will rub against the top of the shoes, causing calluses and sore toes. FYI: A good measure is to have the tip of your toes about the width of your thumb from the top of the shoe. Another test is to make sure you can wiggle your toes.

5. A good walking shoe should fit snugly and securely at the heel. If there is any slippage, don’t buy it!

6. The ideal walking shoe should be well-cushioned with a slightly firmer midsole. This design offers greater stability, control, and comfort. A softer midsole in walking shoes can have drawbacks, such as insufficient arch support, stability, and increased plantar pressure. (Plantar pressure refers to the amount of pressure exerted on the bottom of the foot while walking, standing, or running).

7. Food for thought: if you don't wear orthotics but find yourself needing a little extra cushioning or support, consider a pair of over-the-counter insoles (OTC). OTC insoles help reduce strain and distribute pressure, offering relief from plantar fasciitis (plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the fibrous tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot that connects your heel bone to your toes). They also help with heel pain, arch pain, heel spurs, shin splints, bunions, and other common orthopedic ailments.

8. Keep in mind walking shoes are designed for low-impact activities. As a result, while they offer a comfortable fit and good arch support for walking, they lack the durability and support to endure high-intensity activities.

9. Running shoes, also known as joggers or sneakers, can be good walking shoes if they offer the right cushioning, support, and breathability. However, running shoes are designed for running and may not offer the same level of stability as walking shoes when carrying heavier loads or navigating more difficult terrain.

10. Never buy shoes that are tight thinking that they will stretch. Good shoes should feel comfortable immediately.

11. The best time to try on new shoes is in the afternoon or evening when your feet are at their largest. This is because your feet retain fluid throughout the day, causing them to swell.

Fun Facts from Chris:

New Balance Walker Elite has received the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). This recognition is awarded to products that provide significant value when used in a comprehensive foot care and regular professional treatment. To earn the seal, each product undergoes rigorous review by a panel of APMA podiatrists, who evaluate its overall quality and effectiveness.
The word “orthotic" comes from the Greek word meaning "to straighten or align," reflecting their primary function and aligning the foot to correct imbalances. Essentially, they are designed to "straighten out" your foot mechanics!
·Walking is considered a low-impact activity. Walking may lower the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, dementia, depression, and various types of cancer. Additionally, walking can improve your blood sugar, benefit bone health, aid in weight loss, and enhance sleep quality

Last Word

Understanding the key features and benefits of walking shoes allows for an informed decision when selecting the most suitable pair for your needs. From cushioning and arch support to flexibility and durability, each brand of walking shoes offers distinct advantages. Therefore, it is essential to consider all factors before making a purchase.

Here’s to your new walking shoes taking you from your neighborhood to around the world. Have fun walking the trails, pathways, sidewalks and roadways you encounter along the way.

Thanks for reading, Chris McKenna

FYI: Chris has 20 years experience selling shoes.

The ongoing quest for the perfect walking shoe!

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