Walking: A Great Exercise for Women Over 60

Walking is an excellent exercise that brings numerous health benefits, particularly for women over 60. It promotes cardiovascular health, boosts mood, and aids joint mobility. To maximize these benefits and minimize injury risks, wearing the right footwear is essential. This article discusses the best walking shoes for women over 60, emphasizing comfort, support, and durability.

Understanding the Needs of Women Over 60

As women age, their feet may undergo changes that require special consideration when choosing footwear. These changes often include reduced foot cushioning, alterations in foot size and shape, and a higher risk of conditions like arthritis and plantar fasciitis. Therefore, shoes that provide excellent support, cushioning, and stability are crucial. Proper footwear can significantly alleviate foot pain and improve mobility according to the Arthritis Foundation.

Key Features to Look for in Walking Shoes

When selecting the best walking shoes for women over 60, consider several key features that contribute to comfort and foot health:

Cushioning: Adequate cushioning in the midsole and heel can absorb impact and provide comfort during long walks. Brands like New Balance offer shoes with advanced cushioning technologies.
Arch Support: Proper arch support helps distribute weight evenly and minimizes foot strain. Shoes with built-in orthotics or the option for custom orthotics are helpful.
Stability: A stable shoe limits excessive foot movement and reduces ankle sprain risk. Seek shoes with a firm heel counter and a broad base.
Breathability: Materials that allow air circulation help keep feet dry and comfortable. Mesh and breathable fabrics are ideal options.
Lightweight: Lightweight shoes reduce fatigue and enhance walking enjoyment. They should provide support without being bulky.

Top Recommended Walking Shoes

Based on these criteria, here are top recommendations for walking shoes suitable for women over 60:

New Balance 928v3
The New Balance 928v3 is renowned for its stability and support, featuring a ROLLBAR stability post system to control rear-foot movement, ideal for overpronation. It also offers soft cushioning and room for orthotics, with a leather and mesh upper for breathability and durability.
Brooks Addiction Walker
A favorite for its maximum support and slip-resistant outsole, Brooks Addiction Walker supports low arches and controls overpronation, suitable for women with flat feet. Its full-grain leather upper provides comfort and a classic style. BioMoGo DNA cushioning adapts to the wearer's stride for personalized comfort.
Skechers GOwalk Joy
This shoe combines a lightweight design with responsive cushioning, perfect for daily walks. It features a breathable mesh upper and flexible outsole for a natural walking experience. The Goga Max insole delivers high-rebound cushioning, ideal for those preferring a casual, slip-on design.
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 23
For extra cushioning, the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 23 offers GEL technology for shock absorption and a FlyteFoam midsole for lightweight cushioning, providing a plush yet stable feel. Its engineered mesh upper ensures breathability, ideal for long walks.

Importance of Proper Fit

Regardless of brand or model, ensuring a proper fit is vital for choosing walking shoes. Ill-fitting shoes can cause blisters, calluses, and foot problems. Here are some tips for finding the right fit:

Measure Your Feet: Foot size can change with age, so measure your feet regularly, ideally at the end of the day when they are largest.
Try on Shoes with Your Walking Socks: Bring the socks you usually wear walking to ensure a good fit.
Check for Adequate Toe Room: There should be a thumb's width of space between your longest toe and the shoe end.
Walk Around: Spend time walking in the shoes to assess comfort and support, noting any discomfort.

Caring for Your Walking Shoes

To extend the lifespan of your walking shoes and maintain their performance, proper care is important. Here are some tips:

Rotate Your Shoes: If possible, use more than one pair of walking shoes and alternate them. This allows recovery and reduces wear.
Clean Them Regularly: Remove dirt and debris after each walk. Use a soft brush and mild detergent for deeper cleaning.
Dry Them Naturally: If wet, let your shoes air dry. Avoid direct heat sources, which can damage materials.
Replace When Necessary: Most walking shoes last 300-500 miles. Replace them when noticing wear or reduced cushioning.

Conclusion

Choosing the best walking shoes for women over 60 involves considering factors like cushioning, support, stability, and breathability. With the right shoes, walking can remain a comfortable and enjoyable activity. Investing in quality footwear enhances the walking experience and supports overall health and well-being.

The Best Walking Shoes for Women Over 60