Got the big picture on how to pick the 'type' of walking shoes in Choosing the Best Walking Shoes For You! - Part 1? It's now time to reveal another 'secret.'

Tips For A Successful Shoe Fit

You need proper fitting shoes for a whole bunch of reasons. Here's a few.

* Walking is so much more enjoyable when your feet feel good and your shoes don't hurt. No pain is a really GOOD thing! Take your time finding your best walking shoes and fitting them.
* Proper fitting shoes help prevent many foot ailments!
* You're happier, able to walk more, feel even better!
* Good shoes cost a lot of money! You want them to last. You don't want to throw them out because they hurt!
* Your feet have been through a lot over the years. You and they deserve it!

Get to know your feet thoroughly and understand your unique foot details. Measure your foot fully. The heel to longest toe length. Your heel to ball (arch) length and your foot width. Learn how to prioritize these measurements. Understand the anatomy of your foot and the importance of choosing the right socks for your walking.

Learn when and how to fit your new shoes, how to convert your measurements to different international sizing, how to select proper socks for your type of walking.

Here are some great shoe fit secrets. Shop for your shoes at the end of the day when your feet are the largest. Choose shoes by how they feel, not by the size. Not all manufacturers use the same sizing methods. Make sure shoe is matched to your arch, or heel to ball length. This lines up where your toes bend to where the shoe sole is designed to bend.

Have your foot measured properly. You can find a knowledgeable sales person in a reputable shoe store to measure your foot with the Brannock Device. Have him or her measure your heel to longest toe length, heel to ball length (arch length) and foot width.

Shoe lace tips and techniques can help people with special shoe fitting problems get a better fit. You can read more about the shoe lace techniques in a related article that can be found in this series.

Walking and hiking socks are the finishing touch. Your socks are the final piece of the puzzle in fitting your shoes well. Pick the right socks for the shoe type and get the best shoe fit.

Do You Need A Foot Orthotic or Shoe Support?

Talk to your foot specialist to figure out whether you even need a foot orthotic. He can tell you how to pick the right type of technical support for your foot.

Next Steps

Congratulations! You've got the basics on how to get the best shoe fit and care for your walking shoes. A bit of work the first time. A lot easier the next time. Promise!

Now it's time for you to put it all to good use and get walking!