Best Walking Shoes for 2024: Expert Advice from Dr. Miguel Cunha

Walking is one of the most accessible forms of exercise, offering numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, mental well-being, and weight management. However, the benefits of walking can be overshadowed by foot pain or injuries if you’re not wearing the right shoes. Dr. Miguel Cunha, a renowned podiatrist and the founder of Gotham Footcare in New York City, recently shared his expert insights on how to select the best walking shoes during an interview with CNN.

Dr. Cunha, who has been recognized as one of New York’s top podiatrists, specializes in foot and ankle surgery. With extensive experience treating a wide range of foot conditions, he emphasizes the importance of proper footwear in maintaining foot health. At Gotham Footcare, Dr. Cunha and his team are dedicated to providing personalized care, utilizing advanced techniques to ensure the best outcomes for their patients.

THE KEY FEATURES OF A GREAT WALKING SHOE

One of the most critical aspects of choosing the right walking shoe is ensuring a proper fit. "The correct shoe size is crucial for preventing discomfort and injury," says Dr. Cunha. He recommends buying shoes at the end of the day when your feet are most swollen. "If the shoes feel comfortable at this time, they are likely to be comfortable throughout the day," he adds. It's also important to have your foot measured with a Brannock device for both length and width, as foot size can change over time due to factors like aging or pregnancy.

A great walking shoe should have a wide toe box. "Many people choose fashion over comfort, which often wreaks havoc on their feet," Dr. Cunha explains. Shoes with a narrow toe box can lead to problems such as ingrown toenails, bunion deformities, and hammertoe deformities. Dr. Cunha stresses the importance of choosing shoes with a wide toe box to accommodate the natural structure of the forefoot and avoid these issues.

THE ROLE OF ARCH SUPPORT AND CUSHIONING

Arch support is another essential feature to look for in walking shoes, especially for those with flat feet or high arches. "Adequate arch support helps to distribute weight evenly across the foot and reduces the strain on ligaments and tendons," says Dr. Cunha. He also highlights the importance of cushioning, which provides shock absorption and reduces impact on the joints. "Look for shoes with sufficient cushioning in the heel and midsole areas to increase comfort and reduce the risk of arch fatigue," he advises.

Dr. Cunha also emphasizes the importance of flexibility in walking shoes. "The shoe should bend naturally where the toes bend," he says. However, it should also be rigid enough to support the arch and prevent excessive motion that could lead to injury.

DURABILITY, BREATHABILITY, AND STABILITY

When selecting walking shoes, durability is a key consideration. Dr. Cunha recommends choosing shoes made from high-quality materials that can withstand the repetitive impact of walking. Breathability is also important to keep your feet cool and dry, which helps to prevent issues like athlete's foot or fungal infections. "Look for shoes made from breathable materials like mesh that allow heat to escape," he suggests.

Stability is another crucial factor, particularly for those who overpronate or suffer from recurrent ankle sprains. Dr. Cunha advises looking for shoes with a rigid shank and a firm heel counter, which provide the necessary support to prevent excessive inward rolling of the foot and maintain proper alignment.

DR. CUNHA'S TOP WALKING SHOE RECOMMENDATIONS

Dr. Cunha offers several recommendations for walking shoes, each tailored to different needs and preferences:

• Best Overall:The Keen WK400 is praised for its rocker bottom sole, which facilitates smooth heel-to-toe movement, and its comfortably supportive EVA midsole that springs back with every step.
• Best Budget-Friendly Option:The Saucony Cohesion 17 offers excellent ankle and arch support at an affordable price, making it a great choice for those on a budget.
• Best Investment/Splurge Option:The New Balance 993 Core is an investment in durability and comfort, with features like increased cushioning, shock absorption, and a rigid heel counter for enhanced stability.
• Best for Wide Feet/Bunions:The Hoka Clifton 9 comes in standard and wide-width options, with a spacious toe box to accommodate wider feet and bunions comfortably.l
• Best for Hiking:The Danner Trail 2650 GTX Hiking Shoes are lightweight, durable, and provide excellent traction and ankle support, making them ideal for hiking on rocky or wet terrain.
• Best Lightweight Option:The On Cloud 5 shoes are designed to be the most lightweight fully cushioned running shoes available, offering both style and comfort.
• Best Sustainable Option:The Allbirds Women’s Plant Pacers are eco-friendly, made from plant leather uppers and recycled polyester lining, and are stylish and durable.
• Best Casual Option:The Flamingo’s Life shoes are fashionable and made from recycled materials, making them a great casual choice.
• Best Sandals:The Hoka Ora Recovery All Gender Sandals feature a meta-rocker sole that minimizes shock on your feet, ankles, knees, and back.

THE DANGERS OF WEARING ILL-FITTING SHOES

Wearing shoes that do not fit properly or lack the necessary support can lead to various foot problems, including blisters, calluses, and more serious conditions like plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis. "Shoes that are too tight can compress the toes and lead to deformities, while shoes that are too loose can cause friction and blisters," warns Dr. Cunha. He emphasizes the importance of trying on several pairs of shoes and walking around in them to find the most comfortable option.

THE GOTHAM FOOTCARE DIFFERENCE

At Gotham Footcare, Dr. Cunha and his team are committed to providing comprehensive foot care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. With state-of-the-art facilities and a patient-centered approach, Gotham Footcare has earned a reputation as one of New York’s leading podiatry practices. Dr. Cunha’s expertise in foot and ankle surgery, combined with his passion for educating patients about proper foot care, ensures that every patient receives the highest level of care.

CONCLUSION

Choosing the right walking shoes is essential for maintaining foot health and preventing injuries, especially if you’re walking long distances. By considering factors such as fit, arch support, cushioning, and durability, you can find the perfect pair of walking shoes to keep your feet comfortable and healthy. Dr. Cunha’s expert recommendations provide a great starting point for selecting shoes that meet your specific needs. Remember, the best shoe for you is one that fits well, feels comfortable, and supports your unique foot structure.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How often should you replace your walking shoes? Dr. Cunha recommends replacing walking shoes every 300-500 miles, depending on the level of wear and tear. "Worn-out shoes can lead to foot pain and injuries, so it's important to replace them before they lose their support and cushioning," he advises.

Can wearing the wrong shoes cause foot problems? Yes, wearing shoes that do not fit properly or lack the necessary support can lead to various foot issues, including blisters, calluses, and conditions like plantar fasciitis. "It's crucial to choose shoes that provide adequate support and fit well to avoid these problems," says Dr. Cunha.

What are the benefits of custom orthotics? Custom orthotics can provide additional support and help correct biomechanical issues, such as overpronation. "They are especially beneficial for people with flat feet, high arches, or other foot abnormalities," Dr. Cunha explains. "Custom orthotics are tailored to your specific needs, offering improved comfort and reducing the risk of injury."