Life is busy and we don’t have time for aching feet. Whether you are on your feet while traveling, working, exercising or just running around in your daily life, you need comfortable and supportive shoes to get you through!
Experts agree, the basics of a good shoe for active people are: arch support, shock absorbency, breathability and flexibility.
Arch Support
Proper arch support is essential. We all have different foot composition – high arches, low arches, pronation, supination – whatever your starting point, arch support is the key to full body support and comfort. Many people benefit from Superfeet or Aetrex adaptive insoles that mold to your feet, and enjoy the fact that they can be moved from shoe to shoe. There are many brands, however, that offer incredible arch support all on their own. Brooks, Hoka, and Dansko provide their wearers with good arch support that can serve well independently or with the addition of a specialty insole. Even sandals can give you this essential component to support and comfort when a closed toed shoe isn’t what you want. But, be selective! Not all sandals are created equal. Brands like Olukai and Teva can offer everything you need!
Shock Absorbency
Your shoe is the best protection you have from the shock of your foot hitting the ground. If you’ve ever walked a distance barefoot or wearing shoes with thin, flimsy soles then you know how important shock absorbency is. A long walk or run may feel great, until you try to get on the go again to find you’re suffering excruciating pain from shin splints. The sole of your shoe is so important and can prevent a lot of pain, so be sure to pay attention to the amount of rubber between your foot and the ground. Opt for brands like Brooks, Hoka, Keen and Merrell to be your body’s defense from the shock of everyday activities.
Breathability and Flexibility
Although it’s important to find shoes with good arch support and shock absorbency, these features do little good if the shoe is too thick and rigid. Breathability and flexibility are crucial to your long wearing comfort. Be sure the shoe bends with your foot and offers plenty of ventilation. Without proper airflow you are on the road to hot spots and blisters. Talk to a foot care expert at your local Beck’s about how a quality sock can help. While you’re there, get your foot scanned and measured! They’ll get you properly sized, including your width. Do not underestimate the importance of width! It’s crucial that the shoe you select has a toe box that can accommodate wide feet or bunions if those are part of your foot composition. Without flexibility you will find yourself walking unnaturally and experiencing pain in your feet, knees, hips and back.
Bonus Tip!
Consider the benefits of a quality sock that promotes arch support with well placed bands, shock absorbency with padding, and good air flow with quality breathable fabrics! Check out the OS1st line of socks to enhance and support your foot care goals! And, as always, find a Beck’s Shoes retailer near you to receive a free foot scan and get fitted by a trained expert!
Without further ado, here are our Top 10 Picks for Supportive Sandals and Shoes:
TOP 5 Sandals
Teva Omnium 2 Adventure Sandals in Black
The support and stability of a sneaker, with the breathability and water friendly appeal of a sandal — these quick-drying slip-ons offer an EVA foam midsole for extra cushion and comfort, along with an outsole that provides traction and shock absorbency. What more could you need?
Olukai Men’s Ohana Flip-Flops in Dark Java
Olukai Women’s Ohana Flip-Flops in Black
Gone are the days of flimsy non-supportive flip flops and the inherent accompanying pain! Enjoy a water-resistant sandal with a smooth drop-in footbed for the perfect anatomical fit that will provide plenty of arch support and stability as you live life the way you like. The rubber outsole enhances traction and provides shock absorbency so you can stay comfy all day long.
Birkenstock Arizona in Habana
These dual strapped sandals feature an anatomically shaped footbed with an additional foam layer that offers extra comfort without compromising stability and support. Offered in varying widths to accommodate even the hard to fit. Perfect for those who suffer with flat feet, bunions and pronation issues. They’ll be your go-to shoe when the days get warm!
Aetrex Jillian Adjustable Strap Sandals in Walnut
Recommended by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), these versatile and stylish sandals are a dream come true for people suffering from plantar fasciitis and many other common foot ailments. The built in Aetrex orthotics system provides arch support and stability, while the memory foam footbed and padded heel provide comfort all day long. Strategically placed straps create room for bunions and the open style is ideal for hammertoes.
Don’t let a need for fashion force you to live in discomfort! This wedge sandal offers a Velcro strap design that promotes a secure and comfortable fit that won’t dig in or cause unwanted pressure points, and memory foam cushioning ensures long wear comfort. Walk with confidence, as the shock absorbing cork footbed and rubber outsole will protect your feet and body as you take on the day.
TOP 5 Shoes
Designed with cushion and stability in mind, these airy and light sneakers provide breathability and a rocking sole to get you going and provide shock absorbency along the way. American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) approved, and ready to serve your needs in a variety of colors.
A sport inspired walking shoe for women that boasts a Vibram rubber outsole perfect for traction in rain or snow, and provides shock absorbency for long days on hard surfaces. They’re stain proof, waterproof, breathable and odor resistant. And, the removable insole provides built in arch support. Weather you’re working a double shift or walking miles a day, this trim and attractive ladies shoe is sure to keep you comfortable for the duration!
The ultimate men’s adventure shoe, attractive and practical – and made for land or water. Breathable and light, with water drainage ports and quick dry fabric to keep your feet comfortable and blister free. The removable gel insert offers plenty of arch support with a washable footbed cover. The rubber outer sole provides traction and shock resistance so you can keep the adventure going all day long!
Moshn Rhythm
This sporty shoe provides heel stability and an enhanced toe spring to put extra pep in your step. TRUcomfort insoles provide plenty of cushion and support for long days on your feet! SmartKnit upper promotes breathability and is stain and water resistant, plus they’ve been treated to prevent odors!
This hiking shoe is designed with the unique shape of a woman’s foot in mind.
Not only does the waterproof membrane provide a barrier against outside water, it promotes air flow to allow moisture to escape from within. Combined with the mesh lining you’re sure to stay dry and friction free. Offered in a variety of widths so wearers with a wide foot or bunion can enjoy the comfort of a roomy fit! The removable contoured insole and EVA foam mid soles are low density and light and the areas of softer foam may reduce pronation. While the Vibram TC5+ rubber outer sole and air cushioned heel provides shock absorbency, along with traction to support the wearer on slick surfaces. They’re breathable and light, but they offer stability and structure that won’t let you down!
With so many amazing options you’re sure to be satisfied. You can count on Beck’s Shoes to find you the perfect fit and style for your footwear needs – stop by a store near you to see all these brands and more!
