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The Independent
30-06-2025
- Health
- The Independent
The best shoes for standing all day that are comfortable and supportive
When you're on your feet for hours and hours, your muscles can get exhausted, with the pressure points on the bottoms of your soles screaming for relief. If sitting down isn't an option, there's an easy solution: wearing some of the best shoes for standing all day. 'The right shoes can significantly alleviate discomfort by providing support, cushioning, and stability,' says podiatrist Suzanne Fuchs. But what exactly should you look for? Both Dr Fuchs and podiatrist Bruce Pinker recommend slipping on a pair with good cushioning (to absorb impact and disperse pressure), proper arch support (to reduce strain on your muscles and ligaments), a firm heel counter in the back (to keep your foot stable), and breathable materials (to keep things from getting too sweaty inside). They both add that if you have low arches, you might benefit from stability shoes with firmer insoles and extra support under the arch to keep the feet from rolling inward while standing around. To find shoes that check all these boxes — and look good while they're at it — I put several to the test myself. Whether you're on the hunt for some new kicks for a busy vacation or a work conference with no chairs in sight, here are your top options to consider. How I tested As a fitness writer and certified running coach, I regularly try out dozens of different shoes each year. To find the best shoes for standing all day, I asked podiatrists for their go-to recommendations and looked back over my own research to consider which might fit the bill. To test out top contenders, I spent at least one full day with them on my feet — walking, traveling, attending work events, or chasing after my toddler and dog, sometimes with a few miles of running in the middle for good measure. While wearing each pair, I rated the shoe's cushioning, arch support, fit, breathability, and overall comfort, paying special attention to whether I felt any hotspots or pain by the end of the day. I also took note of how well they held up to heavy wear, and what it took to clean them if they got dirty. Why you can trust IndyBest reviews Jennifer Heimlich has more than a decade of experience as a journalist within the fitness industry, so she is a reliable and knowledgeable voice when it comes to recommendations. Having tried and tested everything from running shoes to walking shoes, she knows the level of comfort and support you need when standing on your feet all day. When not writing, she's a UESCA-certified running coach and hosts running tours. The best shoes for standing all day in 2025 are:
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Yahoo
19 best sandals for women that are comfortable and supportive, recommended by a podiatrist: Birkenstocks, Crocs, Lululemon & more
As the temperatures start to rise and sunny days stretch longer, it's time to swap out those heavy shoes for something a little breezier. In summer 2025, supportive sandals are stepping up with smarter designs, ergonomic features and trend-forward looks that keep your feet happy all season long. Whether you're walking city streets for long distances, hitting the beach or just needing some stylish yet supportive footwear, we've got you covered. You'll want to consider some key factors when selecting footwear to keep your feet happy all summer long. According to Dr. Bruce Pinker, a board certified podiatrist and foot surgeon, you'll want to look for a sandal that offers arch support, cushioning, durability and breathability. There are a lot of factors to consider when selecting a supportive sandal for summer — and Pinker says to choose footwear that prioritizes both comfort and support. "Supportive sandals should have comfortable arch support, appropriate outsole traction for the intended activity, added cushion, durable uppers, adjustable straps and shock absorption. They should also fit securely with ankle straps for added support and a secure fit," he explains. The podiatrist also says to pay attention to how your toes sit at the end of the sandal, as well as the fit of the shoe around your entire foot. "Summer sandals should possess secure ankle straps to accommodate long walks. Also, there should be no overhang and there should be a comfortable, supportive arch," Pinker says. "Sandals are not suitable for a person's feet if they fit too tightly and cause blister formation, fit too loosely so that the footwear slides around when you walk or fit in such a way that the foot hangs over the edge of the footwear." Pinker also recommends wearing different types of sandals for different terrains or activities in the summer. "Hiking sandals are more appropriate for extended outdoor walks in the woods than fashion sandals. Hiking sandals are often very durable with enhanced traction on the outsole," he says. He also had a few other suggestions for the material of the sandal to keep feet cool and dry this summer. "Mesh and leather, which can be woven, are beneficial materials for keeping feet cool and dry. Rubber is also commonly incorporated into summer sandals." Need inspiration for the perfect summer sandals? Check out Pinker's picks — and reasoning — below. Pinker says that Fitflop is his personal favourite brand for sandals. The Lulu Adjustable Leather Sandals are made from leather and have a back strap with a discreet elastic insert to help ensure your sandals stay in place with every move. They also feature the brand's triple-density midsoles for pressure-diffusion, impact-reduction and all-day cushioning. Crocs Getaway Platform Flip Flop sandals prioritize all-day comfort, with lightweight foam footbeds and a flexible upper that feel broken in from day one. These sandals feature feel free technology, that provides a soft drop-in fit for enhanced comfort. It's worth noting that these sandals have a roomy fit so it's recommended to go down half a size. The Birkenstock Gizeh Sandals are a classic for a reason. These slip-on sandals feature high-quality nubuck leather for a natural, rustic appearance. They also feature the signature Birkenstock anatomically-shaped cork latex footbed with microfibre footbed lining and an adjustable pin-buckle strap. Pinker says that the Lululemon Restfeel Women's Sandals are "well-cushioned" due to the footbed being wrapped in soft-touch fabric for elevated comfort. These sandals are designed for a casual look, and would be best for running errands — but not hiking a mountain. The split-strap upper keeps your foot secure and offers a plush feel against your skin. The dual-density EVA foam provides comfort and support while the rubber outsole has a raised tread pattern to help enhance traction. Kuru's LOMA sandals are a versatile choice for summer wear. The platform and ankle strap offer a modern look that can be dressed up or down. The ankle strap isn't just stylish but also supportive, providing a secure fit, which is ideal for walking and other everyday activities. They also have built-in arch support to deliver pain relief without sacrificing style. Sorel's Kinetic Impact Y-Strap High Women's Wedge Sandals blend fashion with all-day function. They feature foot-to-floor foam, making the sandal incredibly supportive and comfortable. Pinker suggests these sandals because of their "enhanced outsole traction and supportive ankle straps." The sandals have a secure leather forefoot strap, adjustable hook, loop mesh midfoot strap with webbing detail and a leather strap with foam detail for comfort around the heel. Birkenstock's Arizona Essentials EVA Sandals are made from a one-piece moulded EVA foam that is waterproof and ultra-lightweight, making it ideal for both wet and dry environments. They have an anatomically-shaped footbed and adjustable pin-buckle straps to create a snug and supportive fit. Keen's Leiki Open-Toe Sandals feature a women's-specific fit to support your foot shape. These open-toe sandals have an adjustable in-step strap with Achilles cushion for a secure fit. The high-rebound foam cushioning enhances comfort and movement, and the shock-absorbing foam insole has arch support — while the rubber soles make for great traction on wet surfaces. These under-$50 sandals feature an elastic strap for a secure and comfortable fit. They also feature a padded faux leather footbed that supports your feet and lightweight outsole with lugs that provide grip and stable footing on various surfaces. The Adidas Comfort Slides are a great option if you're looking to slip-on your shoes and head out the door. They feature a contoured footbed for extra comfort and a regular fit. Merrell's Speed Fusion Sport RMX sandals have a modern outsole with straps, marrying a contemporary look with a sporty style. They have FloatMax Foam integrated insole and midsole that offer a soft underfoot experience, as well as a hook and loop closure system for quick adjustability. The UGG Goldenstar Sandals feature adjustable straps at the ankle and vamp with secure hook-and-loop closures for easy customization. They include a supportive Sugarcane EVA midsole and recycled polyester lining, making them comfortable and planet-friendly. This sandals also have a peppermint-based anti-odour sockliner treatment — stinky feet, be gone! These sneaker sandals from Keen have a fit that follows the contours of your foot. They also uses a recycled plastic bungee cord and lace-lock toggle for a secure fit. The foam midsole has lightweight cushioning, while the shock-absorbing foam insole ensures all-day comfort with the arch support. "This sneaker sandal has a well-designed footbed and it's composed of vegan materials so it's environmentally sound," Pinker says. Fitory's slide sandals have a contoured cork footbed with soft suede lining for all-day support and comfort. These sandals have a non-slip and lightweight EVA outsole and adjustable buckles that make it easy to adjust for the perfect fit. These sandals feature a rubber outsole that gives you a solid balance of performance and durability while providing comfort and support for everyday activities. They also features an EVA footbed, universal strapping system and adjustable hook-and-loop closure. Under Armour's UA Ignite Select Slides are a great choice when you're just looking to slide on sandals and go. They're packed with memory foam to ensure you feel comfortable, while helping to eliminate pressure on your feet. Kuru's LOMA Tila sandals offer a '90s platform design reimagined with modern support. They feature full-grain leather, elastic straps, a breathable cork footbed and patented heel technology for comfort. These sandals also feature a built-in orthotic footbed. Kuru's CODA Muse sandals have the support of an athletic sneaker, but with the appearance of a stylish pair of Keen Elle Luxe Backstrap Sandals feature a high-traction rubber outsole, anti-odour technology that offers natural odour control, plus a fit that follows the contours of your foot for all-day comfort. These sandals also have a foam midsole that adds extra comfort. "This sandal is well-designed and supportive with added cushion and shock absorption," Pinker says.
Yahoo
06-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Best slip-on walking shoes for women in 2025: Podiatrists swear by these 19 sneakers from New Balance, Nike, Under Armour, Lululemon & more
Slip-on shoes are a great go-to choice for anyone who is looking for convenience without compromising style. Their easy step-in design is ideal for getting out the door fast — making them perfect for busy mornings, airport security lines or quick trips outside. However, slip-ons can also be unsupportive and painful — making it important to choose styles and brands that provide the support you need for all-day comfort. According to Dr. Bruce Pinker, a board certified podiatrist and foot surgeon, you'll want to look for slip-on walking shoes that offers adequate traction, cushioned midsoles and a firm heel counter. There are many factors to consider when selecting a slip-on walking shoe — and Pinker says it's essential to look for features to ensure comfort and support. "While I don't generally recommend slip-on shoes, it's important to look for a firm heel counter to provide rearfoot stability, cushioned midsoles for added comfort and a durable outsole with good traction to prevent slips," he says, adding that you should also look for "durable uppers, appropriate room in the toe box to prevent cramping of toes, and a cushioned, shock absorbing insole." Choosing the right footwear is essential for overall foot health and comfort, and one key factor to consider is proper arch support if you're standing and walking all day. "Arch support is always important and should be specific to one's foot type — those with lower arches, which is very common, should have added arch support for better ambulation," Pinker explains. For optimal support and walking comfort, heel drop is another important factor to consider when selecting the perfect pair of shoes. "A 10-14 mm of heel drop is commonly found in many sneakers and that often provides adequate support and assists in improved ambulation," Pinker says. The podiatrist says that ensuring the right fit in both width and length is crucial for comfort and foot health. "The width of the shoe should be snug, but not tight. Length should provide 3/8 of an inch from the end of the longest toe to the end of the shoe," he says. For those seeking extra comfort and cushioning, Pinker says the insole material plays a significant role. "Memory foam is very popular and usually provides added comfort and cushioning. I also recommend Spenco insoles for added cushion and shock absorption," the podiatrist adds. When choosing slip-on walking shoes, it's important to assess their traction and adaptability for different surfaces. According to Pinker, certain slip-ons can perform well across various terrains, provided they have sufficient outsole traction. In the market for a pair of slip-on walking shoes? Check out Pinker's picks — and reasoning — below. New Balance's DynaSoft Nergize Sport V2s are a great pair of slip-on sneakers for walking and everyday activities. According to Pinker, "slip-on shoes are not as supportive as lace-up as the lace-up shoe provides a better fit that is more secure." To combat that, these slip-on shoes have adjustable no-tie laces to help create a more secure fit than other slip-ons. These slip-on sneakers from Amansse feature a foot-hugging knit upper that makes sure your foot stays secure with every step. They are made of high density foam with a comfortable sockliner, so you can wear them with or without socks. Under Armour's Unisex UA SlipSpeed Mega Running Shoes are multi-dimensional shoes with a convertible heel design that flexes between slip and speed modes. These shoes also feature an increased midsole height and a more narrow toe box for a faster and sleeker style, as well as a cool-to-the-touch ISO-chill technology-padded interior to keep your feet from sweating. These DaoLxi slip-on sneakers have a convenient hands-free design. They have a breathable upper that will keep your feet dry and lightweight, wear-resistant EVA soles that allow you to wear these for long periods of time. Nike's Air Force 1 '07 EasyOn shoes are a slip-on version of an ultra-popular pair of shoes, featuring a rubber outsole for traction and durability with a padded, low-cut collar for a sleek look. Keen's KNX Knit Slip-On shoes have generous space across the forefoot for toes to splay. They also feature a contoured arch for midfoot support, plus a leather-wrapped insole for added durability. These shoes are designed to be packable, making them a great choice for travel. Keen is one of Pinker's go-to brands when it comes to walking shoes for any weather. The Puma Softride Remi Slip-On Knit runner features softride cushioning technology for all-day comfort. The Softfoam+ has a step-in comfort sockliner designed to provide soft cushioning with an extra thick heel. Nike's Metcon 9 EasyOn sneakers are a great pair of slip-on shoes for walking, working out, running or casual use. They have a flexible heel that collapses when you step in then snaps back into place. The hyperlift plate in the heel adds more stability and helps force weight down and out while adding rigidity. They also feature a lace-lock system that attaches to the shoe's tongue to keep in place. YRLTYO's slip-on running shoes are made of breathable mesh fabric to keep feet cool and dry. The soft lining minimizes foot friction for added comfort, while the high elasticity, anti-slip sole offers shock absorption and stability. Lululemon's Blissfeel 2 Running Shoes are an ideal choice for a high-performance workout. They feature laces that don't require constant adjustment, so you can step in and go. The shoes are equipped with soft and springy cushioning that delivers responsive bounce with every step, and the seamless upper provides a balanced combination of support, breathability and flexibility to move with you. Hoka's Vibrant Bloom Restore TC shoes have a slip-on design with a stretchy sock-like upper. They also feature removeable sugarcane-based EVA outsole and insole with a protective EVA toe cap. These shoes are barefoot-friendly, and have flexible traction for everyday wear. Under Armour's SlipSpeed sneakers create a personalized fit with the 12-point lockdown system. They have heel to toe interior foam padding with cool-to-the-touch technology. The best part? They're machine washable. Keen's KNX T-Toe Sneakers are designed for natural movement and have a no-tie stretch lace system. They have generous space across the forefoot for toes to splay, and also feature long-lasting cushioning. Kuru Footwear's Flex Slip-Ons keep you moving with their ultra-flexible outsole and comfortable heel-hugging tech. They feature breathable spacer mesh to keep your feet light and airy, with grab loops to make slipping them on effortless. Nike Pegasus EasyOn shoesfeature the brand's hands-free slip-in construction for an easy fit. The mesh on the upper decreases weight and increases breathability of the shoes, and the toggle gives you an adjustable fit. Vivo Barefoot's Primus Trail Knit shoes are the brand's best-selling trail-running sneakers. They features a knit upper for enhanced breathability and purer trail mobility. They're made with recycled materials and the sock-like construction keeps out trail debris. Keen's UNEEK 03 Sneaker Sandals use a free-moving two-cord design to support the exact shape of your feet. They feature contouring that follows your foot for a comfortably snug fit. These are a great option for all-day comfort because of the shock-absorbing foam insole with arch support and the plastic bungee cord and lace-lock toggle for a secure fit. Sorel's ONA AVE Women's Slip-On Sneakers have an elastic panel, making it easy to slip on and head out the door. They also feature a cushioned insole for added comfort. The lightweight rubber outsole also provides great traction and stability. Kuru Footwear's ATOM Slip-On shoes are the slip-on version of the brand's best selling ATOM walking shoes. Made with breathable technology, these shoes are designed to hug your heel and cradle your arch. They have a sock-like feel for all-day comfort.
Yahoo
31-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
15 best walking shoes for women over 50, recommended by an expert podiatrist: New Balance, Nike, Hoka, Asics & more
Maintaining foot health and being comfortable is essential for overall well-being, especially for people who spend a lot of time on their feet — whether you're standing or travelling. Walking is one of the most accessible and beneficial forms of exercise but without the right walking shoes, it can lead to things like discomfort, pain or specific foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis and joint strain. According to Dr. Bruce Pinker, a board certified podiatrist and foot surgeon, our feet change as we age — and it's important to pay attention to how our feet fit in shoes to avoid long-term damage. Before we get into shoes, it's important to understand how aging affects feet — and what people should look for in a walking shoe to accommodate those changes. Pinker explains that as we grow older, the natural cushioning in the feet — typically adipose tissue — often reduces in thickness. Read on to learn more about how aging impacts your feet, and discover expert-approved picks for the best walking shoes for women over 50. How aging affects your feet What to look for in walking shoes for women over 50 How often should I replace my walking shoes Best walking shoes for women over 50: Podiatrist picks That reduction in thickness we mentioned above? It can have major impacts. "The reduction in thickness leads to less shock absorption in the forefoot and ball of the foot. Also, the plantar fascia ligaments can tighten as we age, leading to the pain and inflammation in the heel and arch regions," Pinker says. "After years of wearing shoes, especially if they fit tightly, bunions and hammertoe can develop." According to Pinker, the most common foot issues women over 50 face include plantar fasciitis, ankle sprains and metatarsalgia/bursitis, which is an inflammation of fluid-filled sacs under the ball of the foot. Other issues include bunions, hammertoes (which occur when pressure pushes the toes out of place) and neuromas — a disorganized growth of nerve cells at the site of a nerve injury. "Wearing the right walking shoes can prevent or alleviate these issues by providing proper cushioning, shock absorption, and arch support," Pinker explains. "Offering a proper width and length can also be helpful in preventing the development of bunions, hammertoes, and neuromas." Pinker says that women over 50 should look for footwear that fits properly — making sure the shoes aren't too cramped or narrow in the toe box. He also advises to make sure you look for "adequate cushioning, shock absorption and arch support," Pinker adds. He says that the flexibility of a shoe's sole is somewhat important, but it's even more important for the sole to be durable with appropriate traction and grip to prevent slippage. When selecting footwear, it's crucial to consider individual foot needs to ensure both comfort and support. "Extra wide sizes are appropriate for those with wide feet. Adjustable straps for shoes and sandals are recommended to provide a more stable and secure fit," Pinker says. "For flat feet, it is best to look for walking shoes or sneakers with added medial arch support. Meanwhile, for those with high arches, finding a shoe with a firm heel counter and a somewhat deep heel cup is recommended for a preferred fit." Pinker says that people can forget that replacing their walking shoes is a major part of foot health and preventing injuries. Over time the cushioning and support in shoes breaks down, leading to decreased shock absorption and stability. Pinker suggests that most walkers should replace their walking shoes every 300 to 500 miles — or around 480 to 805 kilometres — which in most cases is once every 10-12 months. "Sometimes, depending upon the amount of mileage, it is difficult to determine if the footwear has lost proper support as the outsole may not show signs of wear," Pinker explains. "Once the midsole begins to diminish, usually between 300-500 miles of usage, cushioning and shock absorption become reduced, and these changes are usually not visible." Need help finding the best walking shoes? Check out Pinker's picks — and reasoning — below. The New Balance Leather 928V3s are a great walking shoe for women over 50 because they feature motion control stability technologies, which help control rear-foot movement for enhanced support. "For flat feet, it is best to look for walking shoes and sneakers with added medial arch support, often found in New Balance with the Rollbar feature," Pinker says. Pinker highly recommends Hoka as a top brand for walking shoes — and the Clifton 10 is a trusted trainer for daily walking. It has a 3mm heel-to-toe drop and ultralight cushioning to keep you comfortable. Plus there's a refined heel for improved comfort and fine-tuned midsole geometry for better stability. The heel counter and tongue are padded and it comes in regular, wide and extra wide sizes. These Lululemon Chargefeel 2 Mid Workout shoes have a pressure-mapped outsole that provides excellent traction and flexibility. They also have a smooth liner that adds second-skin-level comfort, and helps with ankle support. Pinker says added ankle support is recommended in walking shoes for women with ankle instability or a history of ankle sprains. "High-top sneakers, or those with added ankle support, are usually helpful for these individuals," he adds. ZGR Womens High Top Canvas Sneakers are another great high-top option at a great price point. They feature anti-slip rubber outsoles and padded memory foam. The canvas upper is made of breathable, comfortable material — and they come in 15 different colours. The New Balance FuelCell Walker Elite sneakers are a great walking shoe option, because they have responsive cushioning and a supportive outsole. These are also a great option for those who have had foot surgery, because they feature a stability plane technology that removes the medial post, giving the shoes a softer feel without compromising cushioning and comfort. The Adidas Cloudfoam Pure Shoes feature midsole cushioning, and have a loop at the back of the shoe to help pull them on with ease. Shoppers have noted that this shoe runs small, so it's recommended to order half a size up. The New Balance 530s were originally created for athletic performance but they have quickly become a style staple, too. The shoes combine a fashion-forward look with the reliability of a high-mileage running shoes. Pinker says that New Balance is a top recommended brand for women over 50 as their shoes provide all-day comfort thanks to their special foam cushioning, which supports your feet and absorbs any impact. The Hoka Transports feature a quick-toggle lace, designed for you to get them on and off easily. They have 360-degrees of reflectivity to provide higher visibility and added safety in low-light areas. The responsive midsole foam offers cushioning and the rubber outsole provides great grip. Nike's Zoom Vomero 5s have a sculpted heel counter and Air Zoom cushioning to help provide a quick off-the-ground movement. The mesh panels and ventilation ports on the heel keep the shoe light and breathable. They also feature real and synthetic leather on the upper to add durability. The Asics Gel-NYC 2055 sneakers feature impact-absorbing silicone gel placed in the rearfoot to improve your step and create a softer feeling. Pinker recommends the Asics brand for their shock absorption, durability and comfort. Under Armour's Charged Assert 10 Running Shoes are a great option for those who plan to walk a lot. They feature a cushioned midsole to help protect against impact and use compression molded foam for responsiveness. They also feature a solid rubber outsole that is great for durability — without the added weight. The Saucony Women's Ride Millennium shoes feature a cushioned footbed for long-lasting comfort and a breathable mesh upper. The padded tongue and collar add extra comfort and support and the durable rubber outsole delivers flexible traction. Another brand that Pinker highly recommends is On — specifically for their CloudTec cushioning. This specific model uses CloudTec Phase midsole to help create a smoother roll-though from heel to toe, while the super foam adds a more bouncy and energetic feel. These shoes also have an ultra-lightweight midsole with sock-like construction and a speed lacing system. The Asics Glideride Max shoes use cushioning foam designed to help create a high energy return through every step. The Guidesole technology helps create smooth toe-offs and the Aharplus outsole improves durability. The shoes also feature a sockliner for soft step-in comfort. The Experience Form shoes from Altra have a lightweight midsole, guidance technology and a 4mm drop. The GuideRail technology encourages natural foot placement with gentle guidance. They also feature a roomy toe box and a secure midfoot so you can feel confident with every step.
Yahoo
05-05-2025
- Yahoo
20 best women's walking shoes for travel, recommended by a podiatrist: New Balance, On, Saucony & more
When you're travelling, you're on your feet a lot — exploring new places, hiking scenic trails and wandering through every must-see spot on your list so the last thing you want to worry about is sore feet slowing you down. Finding the best walking shoes for travel is essential for comfort and to keep your adventures pain-free so you don't have to take a detour on your plans. Whether you're navigating busy airports or taking long day trips, the right pair of shoes can make all the difference. The best walking travel shoes combine breathable materials, lightweight designs and supportive features to keep you moving comfortably. According to Dr. Bruce Pinker, a board-certified podiatrist and foot surgeon, prioritizing comfort and support is essential when choosing travel footwear. Below, he gives his advice on what to look for in walking shoes for travel. Don't need advice? Jump right to Pinker's recommendations for the best walking shoes for travel in 2025-2026 here. When choosing shoes for walking long distances across different surfaces like concrete, sand or trails, Pinker says it's important to focus on features that ensure comfort, support and durability. "Look for a durable outsole with adequate traction, a firm heel counter for stability, cushioned and shock absorbing midsole, a cushioned insole with added arch support, durable uppers, and a toe box that is not cramped and allows for an air exchange," he explains. If you're searching for a shoe for walking in sand or on the beach, Pinker recommends choosing one with a rubber outsole and a flexible, grippy tread pattern, as it's generally the most effective for preventing slippage on those types of surfaces. To balance style and functionality when choosing walking shoes for mixed environments, Pinker suggests considering a waterproof option — one of his go-to's is Keen. If you know you will be spending a lot of time walking on hard surfaces, like concrete, throughout your trip, Pinker recommends shoes with lots of cushioning. "The best cushioning for this type of walking is ethylene-vinyl acetate which is often found in the midsole," he adds. There are also specific materials and designs that help prevent excessive sweating or odour during long travel days. "Micropores over the toe box or mesh material over the toe box can help reduce excessive sweating as the allow for an air-exchange," Pinker says. To ensure a good fit, especially if your feet tend to swell after hours of walking, Pinker recommends shopping for shoes later in the day. "If your feet swell after walking, it is best to try on shoes towards the end of the day. This will help ensure proper fit to their largest size," Pinker explains. Pinker also suggests considering custom orthotics for long travel days and long walks if you experience persistent foot pain, inflammatory conditions like plantar fasciitis, alignment issues or inadequate support from the standard insoles your shoes come with. "Custom orthotics can be a possibility for some individuals, however, they should be made to address specific concerns of the foot and ankle," he warns. If you're worried about blisters, cramping or pain, Pinker says there are warning signs that shoes will cause harm before it happens. "If a shoe feels tight and cramps the toes, it is not recommended for wearing. Also, if a shoe is too loose, it may cause blisters and is therefore not recommended," he cautions. "Footwear that lacks cushioning and shock absorption is also not recommended as it may cause pain while walking." Need help finding the best walking shoes for travel? Check out Pinker's picks — and reasoning — below. These New Balance sneakers are popular among walkers — they feature a soft foam midsole, an updated outsole and additional rubber in high-wear areas for added durability. According to Pinker, they're "very well-constructed and durable with added cushion." These sneakers also feature a mesh upper that's both supportive and breathable, which helps reduce foot moisture — great for long walks in a tropical destination. The Saucony Women's Ride 18 shoes are lightweight and cushioned, making them a perfect travel companion — no need to worry about added weight in your suitcase. With a reduced weight and an added heel collar cushioning for comfort, this latest iteration of the new Ride style offers a new engineered mesh upper for enhanced breathability and stretch. Pinker says these New Balance sneakers are "excellent walking shoes" and "recommended for long walks." New Balance is his top-recommended brand when it comes to comfort and durability for travel. They come in standard, wide and extra wide sizing, making them a great option to pack for a tropical climate vacation, where feet tend to swell due to the heat after hours of walking. The design of these sneakers helps drive you forward, and the midsole cushioning features lightweight foam to make you feel supported all day. The Cloud 6 Running Shoes from On blend advanced running tech with street-ready style. They feature a foam outsole, making them lightweight and deliver cloud-like landings with energy-boosted takeoffs. These shoes have a breathable mesh upper to help keep your feet cool with prolonged freshness. If you know you'll be dealing with mixed environments, Pinker recommends these waterproof hiking shoes from Keen. They have a contoured fit and also provide a constant curve from toe to heel for nonstop propulsion. These shoes are made from waterproof, breathable material that seals out moisture from the inside. They also feature a higher-traction rubber outsole with a full-length, lightweight plate in the midsole for added stability. These lightweight slip-on shoes from Amazon combine comfort with practicality. They feature stretchy foot-hugging knit to offer breathability and flexibility with moisture wicking and odour reducing insoles so you can go sock-free. The Energycloud midsole and outsole offer step-in comfort and cushioning. The Keen KNX Leather sneakers have a natural feel with a fit that hugs and moves with your foot. They also feature a no-tie stretch lace system, leather-wrapped insole for added durability and higher-traction foam outsole for lightweight durability. The Hettas Alma Tempo shoes are made for everyday walking and running. They feature a lower heel cup and collar to reduce rubbing on ankle bones and holds your heel in place without putting pressure on the Achilles. It's recommended to order a 1/2 size larger because this shoe includes two pairs of insoles. The New Balance DynaSoft Nergize Sport v2 shoes are a versatile pair of sneakers that are great to throw in a suitcase because of their lightweight nature. They're designed with breathable mesh and can be easily slipped on — and they also come in multiple widths, which make them a stellar option if you have wider feet. These slip-on sneakers from Amazon are designed with a breathable mesh upper, ensuring your feet stay cool and sweat-free. The convenient slip-on design makes them a perfect option for travel or on-the-go days. The heel reinforcement and supportive foam padding offer increased stability and ankle protection, helping to prevent blisters on long walks. New Balance's FuelCell Walker Elite shoes are an ideal choice for someone looking for cushioning and stability. The FuelCell foam helps drive you forward and the stability plane provides stability without compromising cushioning. The FLEX Slip-On sneakers from Kuru Footwear deliver pain-relieving support with the patented tech flexing with each step to hug and protect your heels. These shoes have a shock-absorbing cushion and the ergonomic insole adds arch support to keep your feet comfortable and supported. The Lululemon Chargefeel 3 Workout Shoes have an upper that secures your foot with targeted support and stretch. The outsole has the perfect balance between stability and flexibility with the responsive, lightweight midsole that helps with create a powerful motion forward. Wide feet? Go a half size up. Under Armour's Court 96 Suede sneaker delivers all-day comfort, with their comfort foam midsole. The translucent rubber outsole is durable and provides excellent traction, providing a comfortable walking experience. These lightweight shoes from Amazon feature a convenient slip on and go style, which makes them great for walks on the beach. The breathable mesh upper keeps your feet dry and comfortable all day, and the lightweight nature makes them a great packable option. The Saucony Tempus 2 shoes feature a midsole that offers a plush, responsive feel that will keep you energized with every step. The mesh upper provides a snug and supportive fit to ensure your foot stays secure. The On Cloudtilt Shoes use feature comfy soles and also have a sock-like construction and speed-lacing system for ease. Reebok's Classic AZ sneakers are a great option if you're looking to merge comfort with style. The nylon underlays and suede overlays offer a sleek and comfortable fit, and they feature a durable rubber sole for added support and traction. The Keen Women's UNEEK WK Sneakers are a great option for warm climates, since they combine the breathability of a sandal with the stability of a sneaker. They have a generous space across the forefoot for toes to splay and also feature a quick-cinch bungee lacing system to get shoes easily on and off. There's no insole in these shoes, bringing you even closer to the ground for a barefoot experience. This shoe promotes natural foot mechanics, helping to reduce impact, improve posture and lead to more efficient movement.
