Here are my shoe fitting tips for older adults

Here are my shoe fitting tips for older adults:

The starting point, when you're at your local walking shoe store make sure you have your foot measure because your foot size and shape changes with age. Don't rely on the fact you have always worn the same shoe size. Always get measured!.....





Fun fact….The best time to try on new shoes is in the afternoon or evening when your feet are at their largest. This is because your feet retain fluid throughout the day, causing them to swell.


Ideally go to your local shoe store with experienced sales people who have been properly trained on how to fit shoes and not just on the specs of the shoes. The good ones will always want to measure your foot first.






Fun Fact…. New Balance Walker Elite (shown in picture) has received the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). This recognition is awarded to products that provide significant value when used in a comprehensive foot care and regular professional treatment. To earn the seal, each product undergoes rigorous review by a panel of APMA podiatrists, who evaluate its overall quality and effectiveness.



If you wear orthotics, bring them with you! This should be obvious, but if I had dollar for every time someone said “I left my orthotics at home,” I’d be rich

Fun fact….the word orthotic" comes from the Greek word meaning "to straighten or align," reflecting their primary function of and aligning the foot to correct imbalances. Essentially, they are designed to "straighten out" your foot mechanics!


Examine the shape of your new walking shoe to ensure it resembles the shape of your foot. Always check the length and width of your new walking shoe. A slightly wider fit in the toe box will eliminate any rubbing in the forefoot. The widest part of your foot should fit comfortable in the widest part of the shoe. If the tip of the shoe is too small, your toes will rub against the top of the shoes, causing calluses and sore toes.


Also, a good walking shoe should fit snugly and securely at the heel, with some room for your toes. There should be approximately a finger's width between your longest toe and the end of the shoe.






The ideal walking shoe should be well-cushioned with a slightly firmer midsole. (A midsole is the part of the shoe that provides cushioning and support for the foot.) This design offers greater stability, control, and comfort. A softer midsole in walking shoes can have drawbacks, such as insufficient arch support, stability, and increased plantar pressure. (Plantar pressure refers to the amount of pressure exerted on the bottom of the foot while walking, standing, or running).


Food for thought, If you don't wear orthotics but find yourself needing a little extra cushioning or support, consider a pair of over-the-counter insoles (OTC). OTC insoles help reduce strain and distribute pressure, offering relief from plantar fasciitis (plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the fibrous tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot that connects your heel bone to your toes). They also help with heel pain, arch pain, heel spurs, shin splints, bunions, and other common orthopedic ailments.

Always take your time when try on a new shoe walk around store for at least 5 minutes. Make sure the heel doesn’t slide up and down – a sure sign that they don’t fit properly.




Keep in mind walking shoes are designed for low-impact activities. As a result, while they offer a comfortable fit and good arch support for walking. However, they lack the durability and support to endure high-intensity activities.

Fun fact....Walking is consider a low-impact activity. Walking can lower the risk heart disease, high blood pressure, dementia, depression, and various types of cancer. Additionally, walking can improve your blood sugar, benefit bone health, aid in weight loss, and enhance sleep quality.

Side Note....running shoes, also known as joggers, can be good walking shoes if they offer the right cushioning, support, and breathability. However, running shoes are designed for running and may not offer the same level of stability as walking shoes when carrying heavier loads or navigating more difficult terrain.

Last Word

Understanding the key features and benefits of walking shoes allows for an informed decision when selecting the most suitable pair for your needs. From cushioning and arch support to flexibility and durability, each brand of walking shoes offers distinct advantages. Therefore, it is essential to consider all factors before making a purchase.


Here’s to your new walking shoes taking you from your neighborhood to the around the world, have fun walking the trails, pathways, sidewalks and roadways…...

Thanks for reading,


Chris McKenna