Walking is an activity that most of us do on a daily basis – whether it is walking to work, running errands around town, or leisurely strolling around the park. It is important that the footwear you choose offers enough traction and comfort. That’s why the right pair of walking sandals with traction can make your experience much more enjoyable. So, how do you go about choosing the best sandals for your feet? We’ll guide you through some of the different types of sandals, their respective benefits and features, popular brands, as well as tips on how to care for them.
Different Types of Walking Sandals
First off, let’s look at the various types of sandals suitable for walking. It’s important to pick the right style for your needs; for instance, those who spend longer hours on their feet may prefer something with extra cushioning, arch support and shock absorption. Here are some of the main types of walking sandals:
- Strap sandals. Also known as gladiator sandals, these feature straps that come up around the ankle.
- Thong sandals. These consist of a single strap that goes between the toes, and are commonly seen at the beach.
- Lightweight sandals. As their name suggests, these are ultra-lightweight and highly breathable, suitable for those summer months.
- Hiking sandals. These rugged versions offer more protection and stability on uneven terrain, making them the ideal choice for exploration.
Benefits of Sandals with Traction
The added traction offered by walking sandals provides stability and protection from slipping over wet or slippery surfaces, reducing the chance of injury. They also provide foot support with strategically placed arch supports and shock absorbing soles that alleviate discomfort during long walks. The breathable material used in most sandals improve air circulation and reduce the risk of developing foot odour or blisters.
Tips for Choosing the Right Sandals
When choosing a pair of walking sandals, ensure they fit properly and consider the level of cushioning and arch support they offer. The sole should provide good traction and be non-slip when wet. Other factors to consider include the durability of the material, how easy it is to clean, and if they are adjustable. It’s also a good idea to measure your feet before purchasing to ensure you find the right size.
Comfort-Enhancing Features of Walking Sandals
Many manufacturers have started paying special attention to the comfort aspect of their walking sandals – from extra arch support to double strap and multi-density cushioning. This is great news, as it means you can find a pair that is both comfortable and lightweight, with no compromise on style. Some features you may want to look out for are listed below:
- Cushioned insoles. This helps to absorb shock when walking.
- Breathable materials. This helps to keep your feet cool and dry.
- Shock absorbing outsoles. This helps to reduce foot fatigue when travelling over rough terrain.
- Adjustable straps. This helps to keep your feet securely in place.
Impact of Footwear on Comfort and Traction
The quality of your walking sandals will impact both your comfort and traction levels when you are hitting the trails. Poorly constructed soles can lead to slippage on wet surfaces or even basic tasks such as walking up or down stairs. High quality materials such as EVA foam or rubber are essential for providing good grip on wet surfaces. It is also important to note that worn out soles are likely to be less effective when it comes to providing grip.
Popular Brands of Walking Sandals with Traction
If you’re looking for a trusted brand, there are several well-known shoe companies that sell walking sandals with superior traction. Some popular brands include Birkenstock, Teva, Chaco, Keen and OluKai. These brands typically offer higher end soles with a focus on cushioning and support, but there are more affordable options available too.
Where to Find the Best Walking Sandals with Traction
You can often find great deals in-store or online for the best walking sandals with traction. It’s worth checking out specialised sports stores such as Decathlon or sports centres as they often have a wider selection of brands and styles than typical department stores. You should also keep an eye out for special promotions or sales such as Black Friday or Cyber Monday. Alternatively, you could take a look at second-hand stores such as consignment shops or eBay.
How to Care for Your Walking Sandals with Traction
Just like any other type of footwear, walking sandals require regular maintenance and cleaning to keep them in good condition. After each use, it’s important to wipe off any dirt or debris that may have gathered on the sole with a damp cloth and let them air dry completely before storing them away. It’s also essential to check that the soles are not worn out or damaged, as this can impair their grip and traction.
With so many different types and brands of walking sandals with traction available, selecting the right one for you doesn’t have to be a difficult task. From strap sandals to lightweight ones, each style provides optimum comfort and stability to ensure your walks are pleasant and injury-free.
