How to Start Your Fitness Journey: The Best Shoes for Walking, Running, and Everyday Movement
Looking to begin your fitness journey but aren’t sure where to start? Whether your goal is increasing your daily step count, starting a walking routine, or building a regular gym habit, having the right support makes all the difference. From helpful tips and motivation to comfortable footwear that keeps you moving, the right tools let getting active feel easier and more enjoyable. Explore ideas and footwear recommendations designed to support different activity goals and get inspired to take your first steps toward a healthier routine.
Running & Walking
Running and walking are both great ways to get more exercise, with little equipment needed and a comprehensive workout every time. One of the best ways to stay motivated is by building accountability. Try an app that will track your progress or join a walking club and be a part of a community. Creating a routine that you can share with a tracker or other people will help you easily follow your journey and celebrate each milestone.
Whether your goal is more steps or longer jogs, the right shoes can make all the difference. Athletic brands like HOKA, Brooks, and On Running offer long-term arch support, cushioning, and breathability for every distance.
When you’re buying a new pair, be sure to try on in-store to get the best fit. This will help minimize injury or other impairments like blisters, so that you can keep focused on your fitness journey. Stop by any of our stores where our expert staff help you find what works best for you. With a fun support system and lasting comfort in every step, you’ll easily reach your goals.
Casual & Everyday Movement
Not everyone wants to start their fitness routine with a technical running shoe, and that’s perfectly okay. For many people, the best way to get moving is simply by adding more steps to everyday life. A comfortable, casual sneaker can make it easier to stay active without feeling like you need full performance athletic gear.
Finding comfortable footwear that caters to your individual needs also plays an important role. Shoes that don’t fit well can lead to foot pain, frustration, and other hindrances, making it harder to stay consistent. For those just getting started, casual sneakers can be a great option.
Lightweight, streamlined styles transition easily from daily errands to light activity without the bulk of traditional running shoes. Comfort-focused brands like Dansko, Taos, Ziera, and Josef Seibel offer versatile sneakers designed for everyday walking and low-impact movement.
Exercise looks different for everyone. By choosing shoes that feel comfortable and activities that are easy to maintain, you’ll set yourself up for long-term success.
Trial & Off-Road Adventures
Looking to get out more in nature? Hiking and other outdoor activities are a great way to get more exercise while having fun. Remember to research the trail ahead of time, checking for the elevation of the trail, whether it’s a dirt or gravel path, and any potential closures due to weather or other events. A little preparation goes a long way into making your outdoor adventures exercise you can’t wait to return to.
If you’re searching for a new pair of hiking shoes, be sure to try on any new footwear in-store to ensure a proper fit. Plus, give yourself time to break in your new shoes beforehand, especially if you are planning on doing a more intensive hike. Shop at any of our stores where our friendly and knowledgeable staff can help you find the right fit and guide you through the break-in process.
Brands like KEEN, HOKA, and On Running offer trail styles with durable traction and comfort designed for uneven terrain. Whether you’re exploring forest trails or scenic viewpoints, the right hiking shoes can help you feel confident on every step.
Recovery
No matter what type of activity you choose, recovery plays an important role in maintaining a healthy routine.
For extra relief after exercise, consider tools like a Due North foot massager along with a simple stretching routine. These small habits can help loosen muscles and reduce strain over time.
Post-workout recovery slippers and sandals by Haflinger, Oofos, or HOKA can also help relieve foot fatigue while supporting your feet as they recover. Taking the dedicated time to rest your body, even in these small ways, helps you to keep building on your stamina so that you can continue to make progress long-term.
Socks & Other Accessories
Even the best shoes perform better with the right socks and insoles. These often-overlooked essentials can make a major difference in comfort, support, and overall foot health.
Socks with elasticity and breathability like Feetures are made to endure high friction movement, giving you additional support and making them last longer than other cotton socks. It also allows them to keep your feet cool and help reduce blisters by wicking away moisture.
Quality insoles by brands like Sole, Superfeet, and Aetrex can also refresh a pair of sneakers by adding targeted arch support, improving alignment, and helping to reduce foot and joint pain. Shoe care kits can help prevent long-term wear and damage, so that your sneakers will feel better for longer.
Feel comfortable and supported during every workout with these easy additions to your footwear, so that you can go the distance. Questions about what’s right for you? Ask our expert staff at any of our stores, where they’ll help you find accessories that match your footwear needs.
What We’re Listening to
Looking for even more inspiration? Check out our favorite workout playlists on Spotify to help get you in the zone and keep your groove all workout long.
Getting into a new workout routine can sometimes be a little overwhelming. But by easing your way in, finding community to share your journey with, and creating moments of rest post-workout, you’ll have everything needed to start. The right shoes, along with supportive socks and insoles, can make a big difference in how comfortable and sustainable your routine feels.
Step into any of our stores to see how we can help keep you moving!