What Are the Best Trainers for Walking?

When walking long distances you need the shoes and trainers that will go the extra mile, but did you know you can use trainers as walking shoes? The best walking shoes don’t necessarily have to be walking boots, a pair of trainers have a of number performance benefits that will keep your feet happy and comfortable when counting your steps. 

When out and about you need a pair of walking trainers that will be supportive, so, there’s plenty to consider, from shock-absorbing soles to gripped and flexible designs, lace-up and slip-on trainers, lightweight and breathable styles. 

Are walking boots better than trainers?

The main advantage of wearing trainers for walking are the lightweight soles, over time carrying less on your feet can make all the difference especially when walking longer distances. 

Trainers tend to be more flexible than hiking boots so they will aid the natural movement of your feet when you step whilst offering up practical grip underfoot. 

When we think of trainers, we think of high-impact sports like running or jogging, so when comparing the difference between walking boots and trainers they share plenty of similarities, like their gripped soles, featherlight designs and super cushioned linings.

Can trainers be used as walking shoes?

Trainers make the ideal walking shoes for shorter walks and gentle strolls, whilst walking shoes and boots offer a practical option for hiking and rougher terrains. For the savvier walkers amongst us, trainers offer a cheaper alternative to walking shoes, plus they’ll go further should you want to wear them for other activities. 

It is important that you choose the right trainers to prevent injury and make walking more enjoyable and comfortable too. 

While walking boots and trainers may hold many similarities, it is important to find trainers that will provide the most suitable support and of course, keep you feeling comfortable. So, whether you’re on an afternoon stroll to top up your step count or you’re hitting the trail on a high-impact adventure you need the footwear that caters for the demands they put on your feet.

But how do you choose the walking trainers to reflect these differences?

Most runners land on their heel, midfoot, or ball of their foot and walkers will land on their heel and then roll their step through to the toe, this gentle walking motion will allow your feet to absorb 1.5 times your body weight and distribute it evenly on the foot. 

When you run, 3 times the weight of your body is absorbed through your feet, so in general running shoes have more cushioning in the heel bed and at the ball of the foot. 

Are trainers good for hiking?

Hiking in trainers might seem like an unconventional idea for the more seasoned walker but there are many positive benefits for ditching your boots for your running shoes! 

The more weight that you carry on your feet, the more energy you exert, 4-6 times more energy to be precise, so keeping light on your feet might just add a few more miles to your next outdoor adventure. 

Walking boots can be demanding, they need time to break in to prevent the risk of blisters and sore rubbed feet, plus soles can feel rather clunky at times which can impact on your movement and stability. 

However, before you head outdoors it is important to consider whether walking boots or trainers are the most suited footwear for the type of walk you plan to make, if you are adventuring onto extremely rough terrain or into deep snow, hiking boots provide essential stability and support especially around your ankles.

What to look for in walking trainers?

Comfort is key where walking is concerned, you don’t want shoes that will pinch your feet or weigh you down when you’re trekking to your favourite beauty spot. So, you need the trainers that will put a spring in your step whilst keeping you supported and comfortable. 

So, what features should you look out for when walking long distances in trainers?

What are the most comfortable trainers for walking?

With so many walking trainers available, finding the most suitable pair can be tough. To set you on the right path we have put together our top recommendations for walking trainers from a brand loved across the globe for their comfortable trainers, meet Skechers the go-to brand where walking comfort is concerned.

Which trainers are best for wide feet?

The fit is one of the most important factors to consider when investing in a pair of walking trainers, shoes that do not fit your natural shape will be too tight and can cause blisters. 

Scroll this way to meet the most trusted of wide fit offerings …