Best Shoes On Zappos For WalkingRafael Dominguez2023-11-30T07:28:32-05:00
Walking, one of the simplest yet most beneficial forms of exercise, requires the right footwear to ensure comfort, support, and longevity.
Whether it’s a casual stroll around the neighborhood, a vigorous walk in the countryside, or a day out in the city, having the perfect pair of walking shoes is essential. That’s where Zappos comes in – a treasure trove of footwear options for every type of walker.
In this guide, we sift through Zappos’ extensive collection to bring you the best walking shoes available on their platform.
We understand that every walker has unique needs – from the need for superior cushioning and arch support to preferences in style and material. Our selections are based on a combination of customer reviews, product features, and overall value, ensuring you find the ideal walking companion.
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What Defines an Ideal Walking Shoe?
Walking, be it for work, health, or leisure, requires footwear that can keep up, ensuring comfort throughout the day. Inappropriate shoes lacking proper support or cushioning can lead to discomfort or foot ailments like blisters and calluses.
For dedicated walkers, it’s crucial to choose shoes that are light enough for extended wear yet offer ample shock absorption to mitigate fatigue and wear on your feet.
Key Features to Look For in Walking Shoes
When browsing Zappos’ selection, consider these critical attributes for walking shoes:
- Supportive Midsole: Essential for absorbing impact, the midsole should be cushioned (with foam, gel, or air) yet stable to prevent balance issues or ankle injuries.
- Comfortable Footbed: Preferably removable, the footbed should support the arch and heel adequately.
- Breathable Upper: Opt for mesh or similar materials like GoreTex to minimize sweat during long walks.
- Roomy Toe Box: Ensure enough space to prevent cramping and blisters.
- Heel Counters: These help stabilize the ankle and protect the Achilles tendon.
- Effective Traction: The outsole should have treads for grip, especially in poor weather conditions.
- Padded Heel Collar: For added comfort and a snug fit.
Understanding Your Foot Type
Beyond size, consider the shape and arch type of your feet:
- Low Arches (Flat Feet)
- Neutral Arches
- High Arches
You can determine your arch type through a simple wet footprint test.
Recognizing your foot type is crucial, especially for regular walkers. For instance, high arches often lead to underpronation (rolling ankles outward), while low arches might cause overpronation (rolling inward), leading to discomfort or conditions like Plantar Fasciitis. Selecting shoes with the right level of arch support is key.
Monitoring Your Shoes’ Lifespan
Remember, unlike leather shoes, most walking sneakers and boots aren’t designed for sole replacement.
Keep an eye on the mileage of your shoes – a quality pair should last between 350 and 500 miles for running, and potentially longer for walking. Generally, replace sneaker-style shoes annually, while walking boots may last several years.
As these shoes are mostly synthetic, they degrade over time, and wearing them past their prime can result in reduced support and cushioning, potentially leading to discomfort or injury.
Top Walking Shoes & Boots On Zappos
1. Brooks Addiction Walker II
- Style:Sneakers
- Formality:Casual
- Pricing: $129.95 [Buy Now On Zappos]
Perfect for long walks or extended periods of standing, the Brooks Addiction Walker 2 shoes offer both a stylish design and enduring support.
The Addiction Walker 2 is equipped with an Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar, providing robust arch support to maintain natural body alignment. Its BioMoGo DNA cushioning adapts to your stride, offering personalized comfort and joint protection. The shoe’s slip-resistant outsole ensures steady footing in various conditions, while the full-grain leather upper combines durability with a polished look. Designed for all-day wear, its breathable construction keeps your feet comfortable throughout your activities.
Offered in a versatile black-on-black, these shoes are as suitable for leisurely walks as they are for professional environments, blending seamlessly into various settings.
2. Asolo Fugitive GTX
- Style:Walking Boot
- Formality: Casual
- Pricing: $299.99 [Buy Now On Zappos]
Since its inception in 1946, the Italian label Asolo, still operated by the Zanatta family, has been crafting superior-quality footwear. The Fugitives, one of their standout creations, are versatile enough for various outdoor activities, from casual strolls to extensive hiking adventures.
The Asolo Fugitives showcase a blend of suede leather and Cordura in the upper construction, paired with a reliable Gore-Tex lining for enhanced durability and waterproofing. The innovative Duo Asoflex midsole is a highlight, combining two distinct layers: a firmer one to counteract overpronation, supination, and provide torsional stability, and a softer layer for effective shock absorption during your treks.
Asolo offers the Fugitives in a trio of color combinations. The standout choice features a classic brown suede with eye-catching black and red detailing. Alternatively, options include a sleek black and grey pair with burgundy highlights, or a sophisticated black with subtle olive green accents.
3. Keen Utility Flint Low
- Style:Work Shoes
- Formality:Utility
- Pricing: $155 [Buy Now On Zappos]
For contractors who spend their days on the move, Keen presents the perfect footwear solution.
The Keen Utility Flint Lows are designed to withstand the rigors of traversing large construction sites and handling multiple jobs, ensuring reliability and comfort throughout the workday. Compliant with ASTM and F2413-17 safety standards, Keen’s utility shoes are crafted for demanding site conditions.
Moreover, they feature an anatomically designed steel toe for a more spacious toe box, enhancing overall foot comfort. Finally, the shoes boast a removable dual-density EVA footbed and are equipped with non-marking, oil, and slip-resistant outsoles, ensuring both safety and durability.
4. Lowa Zephyr Desert TF
- Style: Walking Boots
- Formality:Casual
- Pricing: $220 [Buy Now On Zappos]
The LOWA Zephyr Desert Mid TF is a testament to robust design and comfort, ideal for those who require footwear that can handle challenging terrains. These boots are a top choice for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts who demand durability and comfort in their adventures.
Crafted for performance, the Zephyr Desert Mid TF features a split leather and fabric upper, perfectly balancing durability and breathability. The boots have a moisture-wicking lining, keeping your feet dry in various climates.
Its LOWA Cross sole provides exceptional traction and stability on diverse surfaces, making it suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities. The boots also include a reinforced toe cap for extra protection and a padded tongue for enhanced comfort.
Available in a subtle Beige/Stone color, the LOWA Zephyr Desert Mid TF boots offer a classic and versatile look, making them ideal for rugged outdoor excursions but may also fit into casual, everyday wear.
5. SKECHERS Performance Go Walk 4
- Style:Walking Shoes
- Formality:Casual
- Pricing: $82.95[Buy Now On Zappos]
Step into day-long comfort with the Skechers Performance Go Walk 4. These shoes are a perfect blend of style and comfort, designed for those seeking a seamless walking experience, whether on daily errands or leisurely strolls.
The Go Walk 4 is engineered with advanced materials for an ultra-lightweight feel. The shoes feature an innovative 5GEN midsole design and a Goga Max insole for extra cushioning and support. The breathable mesh upper adapts to your foot’s natural movements, while the bamboo-lined footbed offers anti-bacterial odor control. Additionally, the tapering midfoot design improves arch support, and the flexible rubber sole ensures excellent traction and durability.
This model comes in a sleek black color, making it a versatile choice that pairs well with any casual or athletic attire, ideal for those who value both function and style in their footwear.
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