Advice from walkers

Yes, I've just ordered my first Fitflops as well, Nortsat46, in the online sale. A pair of suede ankle boots and a pair of trainers, £68 for both and another 10% off because I ordered via Topcashback. The power of Gransnet recommendations!

They might well be going back though, as one poster said they were a bit on the narrow side and my feet definitely aren't.

I am just getting over six months pain with plantar fasciitis and it was brought on by wearing Sketchers on a city break ! My physio has told me never to wear them if anticipating doing a lot of walking , they have no support . She said any shoe you can bend isn't supportive and won't be good .

Having said that I loved my Sketchers, now have to look for different trainers. She recommended New Balance

I have Hotter sandals and love them .

I have been a serious walker, and I would say that for more than a couple of miles, wear proper trainers, or preferably walking boots that will support your ankles. A lot of the good brands have lightweight walking boots. My own favourites are Merrells.
Nothing beats a rucksack, but if you want something a little smarter and more accessible, look at Healthy Back Bags.

Joseph Seibel, I am also a fan and have no problem with them when walking and I walk a fair bit.

I discovered Fitflops when I first had plantar fasciitis and the relief was wonderful.
As an aside could I mention, for fellow sufferers, that after many visits to the podiatrist for the second bout of plantar fasciitis I was eventually given a steroid injection which cleared the condition in a week. I so wish that had been tried at the beginning.

Light, well fitting trainers are important. I’ve narrow feet and have Washable Walkers from James Inglis. They make such a difference.
Try to travel light and go without a bag. Put essentials in your pockets or wear some sort of belt or bumbag.

I have to say my feet are very broad and I've only ever had an issue with one style of Fitflop....in my case a loafer style.
I have a pair of ankle boots, some trainers and ballerina styles and all are fine.

I walk in Ecco hiking sandals, which have good strong soles and are very comfy and hard wearing. You're right to ditch the handbag. Choose something that allows your arms and shoulders to move freely and stay relaxed - a bum bag or a small backpack is best.

I had a pair of Sketchers which I loved as they were so comfortable to wear.
BUT after a while I found the soles started to get “skiddy” in wet conditions. It was almost like walking on ice even if pavements were only slightly damp. In the rain they were treacherous and I skidded and almost fell on a number of occasion. I reluctantly had to stop wearing them.
I may have been unlucky with that particular pair but I wouldn’t risk buying another pair.

mrswoo, the soles do wear down very quickly, I found! Comfort, but no support or durability.

Another vote for Fitflop and Geox.
Used to only buy Ecco but find I like these better now.
Good luck.

Sorry, no ideas regarding backpacks.

I do a lot of walking and I use Karrimor hiking sandals in the summer. Very comfortable, and provide the support I need for my arthritic big toe and bunions. I do 5 to 6 miles dog walking daily and have had no issues with them.

Birkenstock’s do a good range of sandals which are great for supporting feet. Quite expensive but well worth the money.

Having had plantar fascilitis twice and insoles from hospital podiatry I walk 4 miles 4/5 timed per week in Nike Air Max trainers, using the insoles. I’ve been doing this for the last 3 years without any issues. For general purpose wear I highly recommend FitFlop but mainly go for ‘microwobbleboard technology’ as the support and comfort is second to none. ‘Fly of London’ have also been a godsend although I now tend to wear them with my insoles too although I managed without them for years. I also have Sketchers but don’t find them as comfortable - I think that’s more to do with the sizing than the soles though. Doc Marten sandals are also fab. Walked in New York with them this year, day and night for four days without issue. Best of luck!

I took Skechers to Aus last year for a month's trip that involved a lot of walking. They were very good but I would have liked to have something else so I could swap about. Back packs are great - have you looked at Mr Kipling - they are very lightweight

Look at Merrell and Regatta sandals - go for a good sole and something that suits the sole of your foot - adjustable helps as the day goes on and feet get a little larger you can still get 'firm but comfortable'. Sketchers can be light and comfy but don't last well.

I love Echo not only are they comfortable and last for years but they have some very pretty designs. The only snag is that they are very expensive to start with.
As a serious walker I do not worry about fashion, however, and have several pairs of proper walking shoes/trainers all of which I make sure are waterproof. Cotton Traders are Ok but my most comfortable are a German pair that I bought half price in Hoggs of Fife sale but still about £80.
Regarding bags I use small crossover leather bags just enough for some money, keys and my phone. Sometimes I also use a Nordic pole type walking stick. This may all be too much for what you want depending on the kind of walking you will be doing.

I have this www.cotswoldoutdoor.com/p/deuter-speed-lite-16-rucksack-E1314255.html?colour=124 - is very light itself and adjustable for a smallish frame. You might find it cheaper elsewhere.

I use Sketchers but only in dry weather. I find they slip really easily on metal and smooth surfaces in the damp.

When in Spain have a look for Lince shoes. I have a smart pair of blue leather trainer style shoes with comfort soles.

I loved Fitflops especially in summer, but hurt my foot with the straps as I have a high instep and the strap rubbed, leaving a scar which is sensitive. I've to avoid straps over the instep since.

Sketchers, Rieker and Ecco. Can recommend them all! Best to go and try them on and see which fits you best. Xx

I have arthritis of the feet and I always use Ecco lightweight boots for walking, and Ecco shoes and boots for every day use. When it's hot I use Teva Trek sandals which have a really good sole.
I would advise getting an assessment with a good podiatrist. They will look at your gait and will be the best person to give you advice based on your particular symptoms. It's well worth the money.

I think I’m the only person I know who can’t get on with Skechers! I put it down to 5he size of my feet a standard 8 or 42.
I would go with Ecco or Clark’s for comfort and style (and I’m used to being on my feet ) .

I'm an Ecco fan. I've never had a pair yet that weren't comfortable. They have a range of styles, including ones that can be worn with skirts/dresses.

Hi, I too have arthritis and can only wear comfortable shoes, in summer I wear Merrell Sandles' kahuna' style, I've been wearing these for about 10 year's now (not the same pair!) They are so comfy, I have tried others (cheaper one's) but non compair!! Shop around, look on internet for a good deal! Usually around £60/£70 ?