What To Look For
New Balance has developed several technological systems to improve their athletic shoes. Abzorb is foam cushioning that encapsulates the foot. Their Rollbar controls pronation by minimizing rear foot movement. Lightning Dry is a moisture management system, which pulls wetness away from your foot, keeping skin dry. The Stability Web gives extra support to the midfoot.
Common Pitfalls
Find a good walking shoe by looking for one that fits the conditions you might encounter. Test each shoe before you make a decision. The shoe's front should bend easily, but the arch should not. Women with a high arch should look for a thicker, more cushioned midsole. People with flat feet need a stable heel area.
A good shoe will cup your heel, have room to accommodate your toes in comfort and allow your foot to roll through the full range of motion of your step without restricting it.
Where To Buy
JCPenney stores carry the New Balance brand. They can also be found at specialty athletic shoe stores and sporting goods stores.
New Balance Web Express offers order tracking, apparel, accessories and clearance merchandise in addition to walking shoes. The website allows customers to easily sort walking shoes by rank, price, size (including width and last) and features.
Many people who choose New Balance do so because of the look as much as the performance, but some people find New Balance shoes too narrow. Making a trip to the store may be a good idea if you're considering the brand for the first time.
The company makes shoes to correct pronation and extra-narrow to extra-wide widths, with 26 different foot models (lasts). You might need to check the fit or have your foot measured to find the best option.
Cost
New Balance walking shoes range from $60 to $115 retail. JCPenney carries the brand, but Web Express is one of the best options to purchase online. The website provides access to a greater variety than found in most brick-and- mortar stores. The cost of $65 to $140 (free shipping available) reflects the greater number of choices available.
Insider Tips
According to the New Balance website, one of their most advanced walking shoes is the WW845, providing both comfort and support--in a weight just under 10 ounce--through the use of the Abzorb cushioning system and Rollbar motion control.
The New Balance 111 race walker is lightweight and flexible, with specialized cushioning. Acteva (a lighter, more durable foam system) is available in the 1200, a fast walker's shoe for overpronators. It features a stride bar, medial wedge and outsole technology called the Walking Strike Path, made to guide your foot through its motion toward an ideal gait.
The New Balance 1225 and 758 are great running shoes that walkers or run/walkers might appreciate. The WK706 is a technical walking shoe. Durable, this shoe has proven to be an invaluable option for people who are required to stand or walk long hours at their job. The 511, 558 and 1063 feature the Abzorb heel.
Some of other New Balance walking shoes feature slip-resistant soles and suede uppers.
