Cushioned Walking Shoes for Vacation Sightseeing: here's what actually helps. If you plan to do some serious sightseeing during your next vacation, consider investing in a good pair of walking shoes.
What Cushioned Walking Shoes Are and Why They Matter
When you walk, your heel bears the brunt of your body weight. A typical walking shoe is meant for comfort and must absorb 1.5 times your body weight when you walk. Since you'll likely be doing plenty of that when you travel, you want to be sure that you're wearing proper footwear.
What - exactly, are proper walking shoes? We searched online to bring you a list of some of the best cushioned shoes for your next trip.
It might seem counterintuitive, but researchers have found little evidence for health benefits of shoe design features like cushioning, arch support, or lifted heels - minimal footwear that mimics barefoot walking may be better for our feet. This is based on the fact that humans have been bipedal for up to six-seven million years and walked barefoot for the majority of that time. It's only relatively recently - approximately thirty thousand years ago, that humans started to wear shoes.
However, if you're going to be walking for several hours in unfamiliar places, shoes with cushioning and support are probably preferable to minimalist footwear. Some of the best walking shoes for sightseeing include plenty of cushioning and other features to keep your feet comfortable and supported, without making you feel like you're wearing clunky orthopedic shoes.
Features to Look For in Cushioned Walking Shoes for Vacation Sightseeing
The Brooks Ghost 17 introduces an updated DNA LOFT v3 midsole that delivers soft yet responsive cushioning. The shoe also features a segmented crash pad that promotes smoother heel-to-toe transitions. Though the color options are somewhat limited - the roomy fit and tech-packed design make this a top choice for daily wear or travel.
Like the Brooks Ghost 17, the New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5 also offers plenty of cushioning to keep your feet comfortable. The shoe features an ultra-thick Fresh Foam X midsole that's designed to provide plush, consistent comfort. The mesh upper keeps your feet cool when you're walking in warmer temperatures.
Though the shoe is technically designed for women, we found that it's versatile enough for either gender and has a roomy fit that might be beneficial for those with wider feet. "This is a very roomy shoe, which is good if you like a good deal of room in your walking shoe -" says Andrew J.
Both of these shoes offer plenty of cushioning for your sightseeing adventures. When looking for walking shoes, whether they're sneakers or sandals, look for similar features:
- Cushioning in the sole that helps absorb shock and reduces the impact on your feet. A "soft, flexible sole helps you push off with each step," says Andrew J. Clement - DPM, chief foot officer at California Podiatric Medical Association and owner of SoCal Foot & Ankle in Bakersfield, Calif.
- A firm heel counter and good stability features to control motion and prevent excessive movement of the foot. "Since the heel strikes the ground first when you walk, a shoe with a slightly angled heel can absorb most of the shock and reduce pressure on the ankles," Dr. Clement says.
- An adjustable closure - such as laces or straps, to keep the shoe securely on your foot.
- A wide, rounded toe box that allows your toes to spread out and move freely. Stay away from shoes with pointed toes or high heels that put pressure on your big toe.
- Molded insoles that provide an extra layer of cushioning and arch support.
- Fabric or breathability technology that allows air to circulate and keeps your feet cool and dry.
How Long a Pair of Walking Shoes Lasts
A good pair of walking shoes can typically last around 400 miles. "Shoes need to be replaced when the sole starts to wear thin or the cushioning becomes compressed," says Dr. O'Connor. You should replace your shoes every 300 to 500 miles, or every three to six months if you're a frequent walker.
Should You Get Cushioned Walking Shoes for Sightseeing?
If you're going to be doing plenty of walking in the city during your next vacation - consider picking up a new pair of walking shoes before you go. Look for ones with plenty of cushioning and other supportive features, so that you can focus on enjoying your trip rather than sore feet at the end of the day.
References
- heel strikes the ground first - health.harvard.edu
- walking shoes can typically last - health.clevelandclinic.org
