Top 8 Performance Training Walking Shoes

Updated August 03, 2011

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A performance walking shoe is lightweight, well-balanced, with just enough cushioning for you to put in the mile in comfort. These shoes are best for walkers with a neutral gait.

1. Asics Gel-DS Trainer

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A favorite for a lightweight training shoe that also provides some stability. It is called the gold standard of the performance-trainer category by Runner's World

2. Avia Avi-Lite

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The Running Network gave this shoe their Gold Medal top honors in the lightweight category. It is an interesting shoe in that it has motion control and support while still being very light.

The Landreth has been a favorite for high-mileage training for those with neutral stride. In its latest versions, it has memory foam in the heel for a secure fit. I like the wide toe box. The shoe has gender-specific fit.

4. Mizuno Wave Precision

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Praised for its springy feel. It earned the gold medal for performance trainers from The Running Network.

5. Saucony GRID Tangent

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This lightweight shoe also provides some stability and some slight motion control.

6. New Balance 1080

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This is the shoe I am currently training with for the half marathon. It is lightweight and also cushioned, for neutral feet. I find it to be flexible and comfortable for long distance training.