Meet the winner and finalists in our comfort shoes category. Some are built with great cushioning to prevent fatigue and pain from standing or walking long hours, or as recovery footwear to wear after your long walking workouts. The finalists were nominated by readers and selected by our expert panel of walkers, then the readers voted. The polls were audited and validated by our tech team to produce the final results.
1. Winner: Terox
Terox ©
Terox sandals are recovery flip flops made in the USA. They were nominated by many fans who cite the great arch support. They have a slight rocker-heel which can also offload stress from the foot. Fans said over and over that they are soft and cushioned, like walking on a cloud. They are made with elasto-polymers that cushion and bounce back. The anatomically designed sole provides far better support than the cheapo flip flops. Fans also said they were durable, in addition to being recyclable once you must move on.
2. OOFOS
© OOFOS
OOFOS sandals are designed with OOfoam, which one fan says "It's like memory foam for your feet." This extra cushioning earns raves from the fans who nominated OOFOS. "Excellent for recovery after running or hiking." They come in flip flop, clog and slide styles. One fan said she wears them traveling as they are easy to slip off for going through security.
3. Orthaheel Walker Shoe
Courtesy of Pricegrabber
The Orthaheel Walker is designed with great arch support, a patented orthotic footbed and a deep heel cup. These are meant to provide motion control and align your foot correctly to prevent foot and gait problems.
4. Dr. Andrew Weil Integrative Footwear - Rhythm Walker
Courtesy of Pricegrabber
A big key to comfort is having the right support and flexibility. These shoes are designed by podiatrists and endorsed by health guru Dr. Andrew Weil. They have an orthotic footbed that will help align your stride correctly, or you can remove it and wear your own prescription orthotics. The flexibility zones are designed to decrease pressure under the ball of the foot. They have a good amount of cushioning. These should be good shoes for wearing for fitness walking as well as all-day comfort on your feet for travel, work or school.
5. Joya Shoes
© Joya International AG
Joya won this category in 2012. They have a patented sole for a very soft, light feel. One nominator said, "They reduce the impact of walking on hard concrete and feel like heaven on your feet."
6. More Shoe Categories and Winners - Walking Readers' Choice Awards 2013
About.com © 2013
