What to Consider When Buying Walking Sandals
The main concern with sandals is that they are not designed for long-distance walking, according to Dr.Laurino. Often, your feet have to work harder to keep the sandal securely in place.
“This engages muscles that are not typically used, shortens your stride into a shuffle, and leads to fatigue that travels up to the arch, Achilles, knees, and lower back,” he explains.
Dr. Laurino states, “A comfortable walking sandal addresses this issue by securing your foot so it no longer has to perform the shoe’s job.”
Here are 5 expert-approved tips to remember when searching for comfortable and supportive sandals.
- “A contoured footbed with arch support is essential. Avoid a flat slab. A flat footbed is hardly better than walking barefoot. You can evaluate a sandal in-store by folding it in half. It should bend only at the ball of the foot. If it folds in the middle like a wallet, it lacks support and your foot will have to work harder.“
- “A deep heel cup helps position the pad under the heel bone and prevents your foot from sliding around. This is where much of the “my feet are killing me” walking pain originates.”
- “Cushioning should be firm, not soft. You want shock absorption without sacrificing stability. If the sole flattens under your thumb or collapses when you step, it will bottom out during a walk.”
- “Secure multi-point straps are vital. Thick straps that anchor your foot in multiple locations: across the toes, over the midfoot, and ideally around the ankle. This prevents toe clenching. A secured foot results in less fatigue.
- “A grippy sole and spacious toe box allow your toes to splay naturally instead of being pinched.”
Share It:
