As a fan of RUNNEA's tip, you probably know we talk about more than just running. We love all kinds of physical activity, especially walking. Now that the season is here, it's a good time to share our latest recommendations for the best shoes for power walking and walking for fitness.
There are many alternatives to running, for a wide range of preferences. For those who find it challenging to motivate themselves to run, walking stands out as the ideal way to engage in moderate physical activity.
Since we've already discussed the financial aspect and the materials, it's essential to consider which features are important when choosing the right shoes for power walking.
You should keep in mind:
With these features noted, we recommend these models of shoes for the best performance and feel.
This list has a bit of everything: running shoes, trail shoes, and trainers. All of them with great versatility, which will serve you for any distance and terrain. However, we're going to specifically look at two categories: trail running shoes and shoes for smooth terrain.
The New Balance Nitrel v5 is an ideal shoe for speed walking, and even running at gentle paces, in the mountains. It offers decent value for money, and provides all you need to enjoy the mountain.
Original price £85
This new and improved Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 4 GTX offers the same level of stability as the previous model of the same range, adapting to even the most technical and demanding terrain. This updated model stands out for its combination of React foam and Zoom Air unit in the heel and forefoot that work together to ensure a good level of reactivity, meaning you move dynamically and fluidly on all types of road. At the midfoot level, the Dynamic Fit system wraps the foot better and gives the shoe a more secure and adaptive support. In addition, there is a characteristic Gore-Tex membrane, which will allow you to keep your feet cool and dry, whatever the weather. Its traction and durability are also worth taking into account in this new and improved version of the Nike Pegasus Trail 4.
Original price £144.95
The ASICS Gel Venture 9 is the latest edition of one of the most acclaimed series of outdoor adventure shoes. It's your best bet if you are new to the exciting world of trail running, orif you're anexperienced runner looking to compete on more rugged terrain.
The adidas Terrex SoulStride Flow is a trail running shoe that adapts easily to a wide range of running styles, as this model incorporates some of adidas's best technologies and materials. Recommendable? Sure thing.
Original price £123
The Mizuno Wave Ibuki 4 is a trail running shoe that the Japanese brand designed for those just starting out on the mountain. You can use it to for jogging or walking and this new version incorporates a few interesting new features.
The HOKA Stinson 7 is one of the most versatile and versatile models of the brand. It is a model that incorporates the best technologies and materials of the brand and that provides great cushioning for running or walking quietly in the mountains.
The Brooks Divide 4 is a trail runningshoe that, in this new version, is clearly committed to sustainability as more than 55% of the materials used in the construction of its upper are recycled. Its upper features a running shoes fit, with an updated mesh that improves breathability, while the midsole of the shoe features theDNA LOFT cushioning developed by the brand itself that provides a smooth and fluid ride. All this with a weight of almost 300 grams in the men's version, specifically, 295 grams and 264 grams in the women's version and a drop of 8mm.
The Salomon XA Pro 3D v9 Gore-Tex is a trail running shoe from the brand of Annecy but that we can also use for our trekking routes in the mountains. It is a model that stands out for providing great stability and durability and waterproof Gore-Tex membrane that incorporates in this version.
Original price £145.80
Here are some of the options that we recommend for walking comfortably on pavements and relatively smooth terrain.
The New Balance Fresh Foam 680 v8 are designed for those who are starting to run, thanks to their comfort and cushioning, in addition to being great value for money.
The adidas Supernova Rise is one of the latest releases of the German brand that, we are sure, will become one of the most popular this season. They perfectly combine reactivity, softness and comfort and are great for running or walking.
Original price £130
The HOKA Solimar is a walking shoe for beginners in running or fitness. It is a model for neutral footsteps with good cushioning that provides a lot of comfort in each step. The HOKA Solimar is a model with which HOKA wants to target an increasingly large segment of runners, in particular the popular runners who run to clear their heads or are just starting out in the activity. They are also the brand's cheapest shoes. Their upper is made from recycled materials and consists of an elastic mesh in the form of a grid that wraps the foot very well but without feeling imprisoned. In the forefoot area, we find a design that creates an anatomical structure that protects the Achilles heel area. The tongue is wide and padded. The midsole, made of foam , has a slightly denser feel than in their more premium shoes. The outsole is protected by a more durable and resistant rubber in the areas of greatest impact. The sensations are undoubtedly very comfortable when wearing these HOKA Solimar.
One of the most outstanding running shoes of the 2023 season is the Nike Pegasus 40, one of the best-selling shoes from the US brand. It is a very versatile daily training shoe, for all distances, which allows you to move at a more dynamic rhythm.
We open the list with a renewed and cutting-edge design: New Blance Fuelcell Propel v4 is an ideal trainer for treadmill running as it is designed for series, and changes of pace. What stands out most about this shoe is its TPU plate, accompanied by the FuelCell foam. This combinations provides comfort, without losing dynamism and stability.
Original price £120
The Mizuno Wave Skyrise 5 distinguishes itself as a daily training shoe that offers a perfect balance between soft and stable cushioning. It adapts perfectly to different types of training, distances and race paces. It's also vegan. Very nice indeed!
Original price £130
The new ASICS Gel Pulse 15 represent a radical change from their previous versions. They are probable ASICS's most versatile shoes, great for running, walking or working out in the gym.
The Skechers GO WALK Arch Fit shoes are designed to offer comfort and style for everyday use. They are a very versatile and sustainable pair of shoes with a breathable mesh, which you'll appreciate on your walks when it gets hotter.
Original price £85
Power walking means maintaining a more sustained pace than the typical walk, which allows you to gently exercise your body, reducing the impact compared to a sport like running.
The positive arguments for getting involved in fitness walking can be summarised as follows:
On a physical level, it is not as physically risky compared to other sports, and it is less harmful, since the joints suffer less which reduces possible injuries.
This physical activity is a good way to reduce stress and relax, because it favors the increase of endorphins, known as the feel good hormone. Great for reducing stress.
Regular physical exercises favors the circulatory system, if you are able to manage the intensity and pace of your sessions.
Fitness walking also allows us to activate all the muscle groups of our body, both in the lower and upper body, keeping the muscles in top shape.
As Alvaro Gallego, Rev&Prev's nutritional advisor, pointed out: "metabolism is usually activated when the athlete maintains a low-medium heart rate for a prolonged period of time. This requires a minimum of approximately 30 minutes, after which fat burning becomes more effective".
Fitness walking is therefore a good method to regulate weight, because a good 30 minute walk is manageable for most people- even if running may be too much.
As with running, the economic cost of fitness walking is quite low, since you only need a good pair of shoes.
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