Top 10 Best Walking Shoes for Women in India 2021 (Skechers, Puma, and more)

Most of us don't stress about buying the right pair of shoes, especially, when it comes to walking. But, walking, as mentioned earlier, is a form of exercise and needs proper gear like any other sport. Wait, how do decide what to buy? Don't worry, we are here to help with tips that will make it easier for you while choosing one.

Knowing the shape and size of your foot is one of the important steps while choosing footwear. Each time you go shopping, it is important to measure your foot, as your foot size may change over time. 

By the shape we mean, whether you have a flatter (low arch) foot, neutral arch foot, or a high arch foot. But how to know what shape your foot is? Put your foot in a tub of water and step onto a paper towel or on a piece of cardboard. The foot impression will give you an idea about the shape of your foot. 

If you have a low arch foot or flatter the foot, look for better motion control walking shoes. A low arch foot doesn't have much rigidity and collapses while walking. Motion-control shoes are among the most rigid shoes and offer a maximum amount of support for flat feet. 

But these shoes are a little heavier as they have more material added to impart stability. If you have a medium or normal arch, shoes with a firm midsole are the right choice. A firm midsole helps in distributing your body weight evenly across your foot.

It also helps in controlling the pressure that may happen during walking on an uneven surface. Similarly, shoes with good cushioning and a soft sole are recommended for better shock absorption for high arch foot.

A good fit is snug everywhere and tight nowhere. Walkers need adequate support and ample cushioning in their shoes to keep them comfortable. Walking shoes are built for comfort with cloud-like cushioning, support, and breathability so that you can wear them all day.

Getting a shoe with the right amount of cushioning is important. The shoes should give you a snug fit in the heel and midfoot, thus leaving enough space for your forefoot. However, too much cushioning may make your foot feel uncomfortable and tight, whereas low cushioning may lead to a foot injury.

A pair of heavy shoes put a lot of strain on your foot and make the walking experience tiresome and painful. Not only the weight but the part of the shoe that surrounds your toes (toe box) also matters. It is important for this part of the shoe to wiggle and be able to bend freely.

You will mostly find walking shoes made of leather, suede, or other fabrics such as synthetic mesh and /or a mixture of two. Leather shoes are more durable compared to fabric; however, these are heavier, expensive, and less breathable. On the other hand, shoes made with mesh uppers are highly breathable and lightweight.

To know if you have enough space in them, we recommend doing a wiggle test. To do that, put on the pair of shoes and see that you have at least half an inch of room between the top of your longest toe and the front wall of the toe box. However, too much space can cause excessive shifting and discomfort.

The outsole is the part of the shoe that makes contact with the ground. Look for outsoles with good traction and grooves to help create traction to prevent slipping and falling while walking. It is made of materials such as EVA, rubber, etc. While rubber outsoles are slip-resistant, EVA has the best shock absorbing properties and is lightweight and flexible.

The midsole is the most important part of the shoe. It is the area between the sole and the thread that supports your arch and helps in shock absorption. It is often made of EVA or phylon. EVA is lightweight, and phylon is a denser material that offers a higher level of comfort.

The insole, also known as the footbed, is the padded base that sits directly under your foot. It absorbs the impact that your foot has on the shoe and works as a shock absorber. The insole should feel well-cushioned, be supportive, and shape well to your foot. Mostly made of EVA foam, it provides ample cushioning between your feet and the ground.

Choosing a pair of shoes that suits the climatic conditions of the area you live in also has to be taken care of while making a purchase. Go for shoes with waterproofing lining if you live in a place where it rains quite often, e.g., Mumbai. Shoes with rubber soles make a good waterproof option, but they are a little heavy. 

Leather shoes also are a waterproof option, but again they are heavy. If you are someone who lives where it is extremely hot and summery, you may experience excessive sweating on your foot. 

Make sure to have a shoe with a breathable membrane and also wear breathable socks. Shoes with mesh uppers are recommended to avoid trapping moisture. They are not only lightweight and breathable but also easy to clean.

Trying on a shoe is a must to see if it is comfortable and fits well. As mentioned earlier, be sure of your foot size before ordering and make sure to have an option of returning, in case it doesn't fit well. 

Today, e-commerce websites give an option of trying the shoes, you can always check the size, and if it isn’t the right pair, there will be a return option at all times. It is recommended to try a shoe at the end of the day when your foot is at a maximum swollen state.

This will help you find a perfect fit for your foot, neither too small nor too big. Don't forget to try in a pair of socks that you usually wear. Take a walk around to test how they feel when you add in the movement factor. Calluses and blisters can form as a result of wearing a shoe that's too narrow or wide. And a shoe that is too short can cause pain in the toes.

Now that you know what to look for and all the tips to help you out with your next purchase of suitable walking shoes let's look at the list of some of the best selling walking shoes available in India. We have added shoes from the best brands like Skechers, Puma, Hrx, and more.

Are you looking for some other shoe options to upgrade your wardrobe or a pair of sunglasses to up your style quotient outdoors? Check out the following links.

Whether you are looking for a high-end shoe or something to fit in your budget, you must buy the right shoe for your feet. Know your feet well before purchasing so that you don't end up buying bulgy, heavy shoes with an improper fitting. Hope the article will help you find the perfect pair for you.

Author: Sashmita