Style
Slip-on walking shoes are great for the ease of putting them on and taking them off, but you want to make sure they don't slip off your feet. Avid and very active walkers will do best with a slip-on that has a closed back, rather than an open-back clog style, no matter how cute the clog may be. A closed back, which is available in a ballet slipper style or a sneaker style, offers more support and helps insure the foot does not pronate as you walk. It also guards against twisting your ankle on uneven or slippery terrain. Leather works as long as there are vent holes for aeration, or you can choose a leather, suede, canvas or mesh combination.
Size and Support
In addition to the closed back, a slip-on walking shoe should have adequate arch support. The larger the arch support, the higher the sides will need to be, as several styles offer low sides and a tapered back. Size the shoe by making sure your big toe is at least 1/2 inch from the front of the shoe and your front toes have plenty of room to move around. The back should not rub against your foot nor should your foot slip out from the footbed.
Sole
Depending on your usual terrain, you may want the added traction of a hiking-type sole rather than a smoother sole made for concrete and flat surfaces. The sole should be slightly curved at the back so your feet can rock properly as you walk. The sole should also be thick enough to protect the foot from rocks and other debris.
Article Written By Ryn Gargulinski
Ryn Gargulinski is a writer, artist and performer whose journalism career began in 1991. Credits include two illustrated books, "Bony Yoga" and "Rats Incredible"; fitness, animal, crime, general news and features for various publications; and several awards. She holds a Master of Arts in English literature and folklore and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in creative writing with a French minor from Brooklyn College.
