Advice from walkers

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Have had both Rieker and Merrell walking sandals in the past and they are very good but now wear Keen sandals which are sold by outdoor specialists (also available online - should be available reduced right now) specifically for walking/hiking Many styles have a covered toe which is excellent for protecting toes when walking on rough uneven ground. They are ultra light, with non slip soles and good ventilation, very comfortable and can be washed in washing machine. Not cheap but worth it - bought mine for walking on Greek islands (dusty rough uneven ground) and in the Lake District and they feel very secure. Now prefer for everyday use and have even worn them when mountain biking. I have square feet (small but wide with bunions) and I find both Keen and Rieker comfortable to wear plus they hide the bunions! Keen are available in size 7 and 8.

Also have the Healthy Back bag for walking/hiking - again available on line or outdoor specialist. Two different sizes, lots of colours, lots of pockets, inside and out. Light as a feather and you can wear as a shoulder bag or across the body.

Good hunting and walking!

Wearing Ecco shoes is like walking on air.

I used to swear by Ecco until they appeared to change to cheaper manufacturing and got a bit plastic-y and less comfortable. I've worn Hotter now since their 'Shake' style got me walking around New York in comfort two days after being diagnosed with plantar fasciitis which was causing me lots of pain. Some of their styles have 'double' insoles for walking-on-air comfort. I only ever buy Hotter now but, unless I'm repeating a style I already have, I still try them before buying for width, although they do online sales and no quibble returns.

I can't wear Hitter or Skecher, just can't get a good fit. Ecco are usually my go to and I have had the occasional boat type shoe from M & S though they are pretty flat.

I wear Sketchers for all walking! I gave several pairs and I’m a size 8. Some are machine washable. You can get all styles, sandals, walking shoes and boots. I have a pair of each! I can highly recommend them!

I used to wear Havianas (flipflops) a lot until I had big trouble with my Achilles tendon. I was told that wearing flat shoes was a no-no so I graduated to the Skechers version which have thicker soles. They are amazingly comfortable and hard wearing and I no longer have Achilles problems ?

Ecco footwear is the way to go.....I know they are expensive, but they are so well made, have very good soles for walking and many styles look reasonably fashionable too. They really do last too. I’m in my 70’s too and have come to realize that well made and well fitting shoes are a necessary investment - they help minimize the chance of tripping or falling and definitely minimize aching hips and lower back pain - often caused by wearing inappropriate footwear.

When my walking boots broke my feet during my Santiago experience I put on my fitflops and completed the pilgrimage. Get a pair in the sale, they are marvellous.

Look online at a company called shoegarden, they have masses of German made shoes, I’ve bought all sorts from them. My job involves up to 25k steps a day and I alternate between a pair of smart suede trainers from that website one day and some Ecco shoes the next !

Hope you find something soon ?

U walk between 5-6 miles a day.... all in Sketchers.... the most comfortable shoe I’ve ever worn ..got 3 pairs...need more!

...that’s. ‘I’ not U otherwise you wouldn’t be asking!!!

Ecco are the most comfortable walking shoe I’ve ever had ,I’m an 8 with a wide fit.Also Joseph Sieble are very good.

My Fitflops loafers arrived very promptly today and they fit very well. I've yet to wear them outdoors, but I'm sure they will make walking easier.

My boots and trainers have arrived too, and I’m very happy with them. The boots are in a lovely soft suede and feel so comfortable, even on my wide feet.