Dr. Patrick McEneaney, a podiatrist and CEO of Northern Illinois Foot & Ankle Specialists, advises against buying over-the-counter foot gadgets without professional guidance. “With so many things on the market, just buying an insert or buying something over the counter, it might not be the type you need,” McEneaney told HuffPost. He adds that wearing shoes wrong for one’s foot type is a common issue. “Having an appropriate shoe for the activity, also having the appropriate shoe for your foot is almost even more important. It’s a good idea to get evaluated and see if there are any problems.”
Once evaluated, podiatrists recommend several non-medical items that can improve walking comfort. These include antifungal foot wash, arch support inserts, seamless socks, Epsom salts, heavy-duty emollients, and more. The following products were compiled based on expert suggestions.
Antifungal Foot Wash for Post-Walk Hygiene
Dr. Michelle Castiello, a podiatrist at Scarsdale Medical Group, recommends washing feet after every walk to prevent fungus. “After exercise, take off your socks and shoes as soon as possible, [and] wash and dry your feet well, especially between the toes, to avoid fungus,” she said. A Daily Defense foot wash with tea tree oil and Epsom salts can help clean and deodorize feet. Available for $10.35 at iHerb.
Arch Support Orthotic Inserts
Arch support inserts may help with plantar fasciitis and general walking comfort. Highly-rated insoles with a high arch and deep heel cup offer support and maintain correct foot positioning, protecting the heel from impact. Available in men’s and women’s sizing for $20 at Amazon.
Skechers Glide Step Sneakers
New York City-based podiatrist Dr. Gary Evans recommended Skechers Glide Step sneakers as one of the best walking shoe options for older adults. They feature a breathable mesh outer, removable arch fit insole, and a podiatrist-designed shape. The Glide-Step feature provides natural momentum. Available in multiple colors for men and women, starting at $75+ at Zappos.
Seamless Wool, Nylon, or Polyester Socks
“Socks are very important as well,” said Dr. Gary Evans. He suggests moisture-wicking socks to prevent blisters and seamless socks to reduce pressure around toes. Dr. Castiello advises avoiding cotton: “Choose moisture-wicking socks made from fabrics like merino wool, nylon and polyester. Cotton socks can trap moisture against your skin.” Unisex seamless polyester blend athletic socks with a 4.4 rating on Amazon come in 12 colors in packs of three, with pull-on tab, padded instep, and heel cushion. $20 at Amazon.
Pure Epsom Salts for Soaking
Dr. McEneaney recommends regular foot soaks with Epsom salts for muscle and joint aches. “Avoid products with any perfumes or dyes.” He notes that foot pain may be from overuse when starting or increasing walking. A five-pound bag of pure Epsom salt made in the USA has a 4.8-star Amazon rating from 7,158 reviews, priced at $16.
Heavy-Duty Emollient for Moisturizing
Dr. Castiello suggests moisturizing feet before a long walk: “Apply creams or ointments to areas that are at risk for blisters, such as bunions and hammertoes.” O’Keeffe’s Healthy Feet foot cream is an unscented, non-greasy option to prevent cracking. Alternatively, a thin layer of Vaseline on heels can prevent blisters. Healthy Feet cream: $10 at Amazon; Vaseline: $10 at Amazon.
Seamless Arch-Support Socks from Bombas
Another seam-free sock option is from Bombas, offering ultra-breathable socks with a seam-free toe and micro-band around the arch for light compressive support. Available in three sizes and multiple colors for $60.
Toenail Clipper for Pre-Walk Care
Dr. Castiello advises trimming toenails straight across before long walks to avoid rubbing against sneakers, which can cause pain, bleeding, or permanent damage. The Wanmat nail clipper uses leverage handles for easier trimming and has a 4.5 Amazon rating from 14,275 reviews, priced at $10.
Yoga Mat for Post-Walk Stretching
“After walking, stretch your feet to improve flexibility, circulation, and prevent/relieve pain,” said Dr. Castiello. A yoga mat measuring 74 inches by 24 inches, half an inch thick, in six colors with a carrying strap, is available for $22 at Amazon.
