News & Advice

Choosing the Right Shoes to Prevent Injury

Choosing the right shoes to prevent injury is so important. If you’ve been sidelined by recurring aches, injuries or stubborn pain, it may not be an "age" thing, or bad luck. It could be your shoes.

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At Physiofusion, we frequently see injuries caused (or worsened) by poor footwear. Choosing the right shoes to prevent injury is essential in the support of your posture, joints, and movement patterns. The wrong ones? They can lead to ongoing pain and frustration.

Why the Right Shoes Matter?

Your feet are the foundation of your body’s mechanics. As the Health Harvard journal explains, thin, flexible soles may actually aggravate joints, leading to knee or hip discomfort over time. Shoes that provide solid support help preserve healthy alignment while reducing injury risk. Harvard Health

Top Picks for Injury-Proof Walking in 2025

Recent consumer surveys highlight excellent walking shoes at various price points:

Budget-Friendly – Decathlon Quechua (£42): Comfortable and durable, ideal for lighter walks.
All-Rounder – Grisport (£83): Consistently rated for comfort, fit, and lifespan.
Premium Choice – Meindl (£145): Exceptional build quality—ideal if you walk often.

These were chosen based on user satisfaction, support, and longevity. blog.renewwellness.careHoag Orthopedic Institute

What Makes a Walking Shoe Great?

Fit & Comfort: Shoes should feel snug, not tight. Allow a thumb’s width between your longest toe and the tip to accommodate natural swelling.
Support & Stability: Sturdy soles that maintain alignment and save your joints from overstrain are key. Hoag Orthopedic Institute
Durability: A well-constructed shoe lasts longer and continues to protect your posture.
Appropriate Waterproofing: Lightweight shoes are perfect for dry paths, but opt for more robust models if you walk in wetter or rougher terrain.

Ready to Stay Active Without the Pain?

Before you buy a new pair, consider these steps:

Bring the shoes in for a Biomechanics or Podiatry assessment. We’ll assess your gait and foot structure.
Based on your walking needs (e.g., daily strolls, hilly routes, damp UK climate), we’ll help you pick a shoe that supports movement, not works against it.
Learn how a fit-for-purpose pair can reduce pain, prevent flares, and keep your body aligned long-term.

Our goal? To help you stay active, without pain getting in the way.

If you have any questions about your current or future footwear, reach out to our experts any time using our FREE Ask A Physio service, here.