5. Socks don't matter.
If you find yourself developing blisters or hot spots on your feet, the right socks can help prevent those. First, wear socks. Second, wear synthetic socks of acrylic, CoolMax, Ultimax, or other sports fabrics which wick away moisture from the foot. Don't wear cotton socks when walking for more than half an hour, as they retain sweat next to the foot, soften the skin and leave it more prone to blisters. Wear synthetic socks, lubricate your feet and/or use corn starch to keep them dry.
Before You Buy Walking Socks
7 Strategies to Prevent Blisters
This is critically important if you have diabetes, you must not risk getting ulcers on your feet.
6. Wear two different brands/styles of shoes for walking and rotate them.
This myth is one that may be good advice. The theory is that it keeps your muscles from settling into one pattern with one shoe. But the opposing theory is - why is that a good thing? If you are training for speed or distance, it then just confuses your muscles without having a good training effect. I have a full "shoe wardrobe" and wear shoes depending on the conditions I'll encounter on my walking route for the day - wet, dry, trail, pavement. They generally are all from the same brand and the same shoe last style, but give a variety with their fit.
7. Boots are best for long walks.
Sarge thought so, but you were carrying a 30 pound pack and might have to dive into a foxhole at any moment. Many European distance walkers wear boots. But if your long walk is on pavement, your feet will be happier if you wear shoes designed for marathon runners and walkers. You will need some cushioning, but not heavy cushioning. If you overpronate, you need motion control shoes especially when walking long distance. Visit one of the running shoe web sites such as Roadrunner Sports and select shoes that say they are good for longer distance.
8. My walking shoes are fine for hiking.
You will bust this myth yourself if you take a trail and discover how painful it is to have rocks and roots poking you through the soles of your shoes. Trail shoes or lightweight hiking boots protect your soles from these. Even gravel roads can be a painful experience with many walking or running shoes. Switch to trail shoes for those surfaces. Today's trail running shoes are lightweight, flexible, and protective.
Top Picks for Trail Shoes
