Walking for hours visiting the lost corners of each city we go to is the number one activity of travelers. Its popularity is due to the fact that it is the easiest and most economical thing that can be done when traveling. That is why it is important to have good shoes.
First things first: physical condition
Before any footwear, we must prepare the body, especially our legs and feet. Walking fast for ten minutes a day can help improve your health and reduce the risk of premature death by 15%, according to a study published in the United Kingdom.
However, a recent research by the Public Health Department of England concludes that 41% of people between 40 and 60 years of age do not even walk 10 minutes a day for a whole month.
For this reason, it is suggested to do activities that prepare the body such as: getting off one stop before the destination when using public transport and if you go by car, park it a few blocks away, another is to take the stairs instead of the elevator, take walks during the lunchtime, go shopping without the car, and on weekends take a walk outdoors.
The Right Footwear for the City and Nature Trails
We must look for comfortable, flexible and ergonomic footwear to enjoy without giving up style and without suffering from foot, leg or back pain.
- City Walk:
If the plan is to stay in the city, buy sneakers with a thick, ergonomic and comfortable sole. These shoes can be found in sports and casual models to wear on any occasion.
- Walking in Trails:
A perfect plan to enjoy nature in its purest form is always to go hiking. However, if you want to carry out this sport correctly, it is essential to wear the right footwear. With the right pair you can enjoy your surroundings without worrying about getting sores or blisters.
- The Terrain:
The first question that one must ask is about the type of terrain that will be trodden during that route. And it is not the same for the foot to go on flat tracks -in some cases with paved sections, than other somewhat more irregular paths or step on a very steep terrain between mountains and even crossing muddy areas or rivers.
Bearing in mind the above, in the first situation it is best to bet on hiking shoes that are flexible and light, although they will not be as durable to walk comfortably and not get too tired. When the terrain becomes more difficult, it is when the shoes should have a more rigid sole to gain stability, as well as a boot shape to protect the ankle from possible falls or falling stones. And if you are going to go through terrain with water, it is essential that the footwear has a waterproof layer.
- Distance and Pace:
In the same way that the orography of the terrain to be covered is taken into account, the distance and the pace that will be taken also influence the type of footwear needed. A short walk through the countryside is not the same as a route lasting a couple of hours with a weight on your back. Thus, in the first case, a more flexible boot will suffice, better if it is also a shoe for hiking, while in the second it is important to choose a model that provides the foot with greater stability in the event of possible injuries.