How to choose walking shoes?

Shadowfax44
Shadowfax44 Posts: 38 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
Hi everyone!

I went on my first meetup this week with a hiking/walking group. We did 5 miles on a rail trail that covers pavement, nature trail, and gravel. I did fine except that the ball of my right foot got a terrible hot spot at about the 4 mile mark, and I got a blister. I know I need new shoes (these are well over 1.5 yrs old), but I'm not sure how to choose.

My criteria -

Lightweight! I hate heavy shoes
Breatheable - I hate hot shoes
Under $75 ( I know, that makes it harder, but that limit is really pushing my budget. It should be under $50)

I walk both on pavement and on trails, so I would like something that can do both. I don't tend to do strenuous hiking, and have a boot for that anyway.

I have always chosen running shoes to walk in, because I like the lightness and flexibility. But since I never run, this is probably not a good choice.

So how do I choose?

I've tried on Merrell Siren Sport, but did not like the hard sole. I tried on Merrell Payette (apparently only available at D i c k s Sporting Goods and Gander MTN, but if anyone knows of a different place please share!) and the 10s are just a tiny bit too small in the length, and they don't seem to carry 10.5 or 11. But they have a flexible sole and are cushiony. New Balance has always been my brand of choice before, but I'm willing to explore.

Any advice on choosing walking shoes would be greatly appreciated!

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