Designed in collaboration with Salomon's world-class athletes, S/LAB products deliver top performance without compromise. On & Off Trails Feel safe running higher in the mountains. Protection for on-and-off-trail, on steep hills, on snowy peaks and many more adventures PLAY WITH THE ELEMENTS Run with confidence on technical trails in these shoes that deliver protection, stability and precise fit. Lightweight and precise, these shoes combine ground feel and essential protection for speed and comfort on smoother trail surfaces. PLAY WITH GOOD VIBES See more 11 productsSee Our Best Athletic Shoes of 2012 The latest research shows that athletic shoes that overrestrict foot motion may contribute to injuries, and so can flimsy flats. We asked 33 walkers to test more than 100 pairs for the right balance of support and flexibility for any occasion. The result is this list—our picks for the best walking shoes of 2011! To keep your feet feeling good mile after mile, try a bunch on and go with the shoe that feels best on your feet.

We walked hundreds of miles in the newest walking shoes to rate them for fit, stability, and—yes—style. Here, our top picks. Walk off 22 pounds in just 8 weeks and get an MP3 player! Best For: Fast Walking This shoe has a superflexible toe that makes it easy to push off and quicken your pace. But no matter how fast you go, the ankle padding will keep your heel snugly in place. running shoes in salt lake city"My foot didn't budge, even in thin socks," reports tester Jessica Branch, 45, of New York City. new nike shoes march 2013A mesh upper is lined to buffer cold and wind. adidas womens running shoes saleFind out how speed walking can help melt belly fat.new running shoes back pain

Best Running Shoes For: Running Intervals Walkers who want to add jogging bursts should opt for a running shoe. This one is designed for high impact but is still flexible enough for the rolling motion of walking. "These shoes were comfortable at any speed; I felt like they really sprang me forward," reports tester Molly Raisch, 23, of Allentown, PA. nike shoes for toddlers on saleTurn Your Walk Into a Runnike baby shoes size guide Best Walking Shoes For: Hiking These lightweight hikers perform as well as bulkier high-top versions. "They're much more flexible," reports tester Jess Lee, 30, of Brooklyn, NY. The rugged sole grips as you go up and down hills but is bendable enough that you can keep up a smooth, rolling stride on level terrain. And the reinforced toe area protects your feet from bumps against rocks and roots.

See the best hiking gear for women Best Walking Shoes For:: Running Errands These stylish sneakers are lightweight and have just enough arch support to keep your feet comfy when you're on the go. "I wore these for shopping and doing errands--they were just right for everyday," reports tester Eileen Kohn, 48, of Aurora, OH. The full coverage makes them a good choice for spring and fall. Best Walking Shoes For: Overweight Walkers Air pockets in the rubber bottom of the shoe reduce impact for more comfort and less chance of injury. Even slim walkers enjoy the extra cushioning, especially for long walks: "No matter how far I went, my feet never got sore," reports tester Jennifer DeLuca, 41, of Brooklyn, NY. The mesh upper lets air circulate so feet stay dry and cool. Best Walking Shoes For: Bunions An ultraroomy toe box and an expandable "bunion window" on the inside take the squeeze off swollen joints and toes. "I could walk longer than usual, because the shoe has a lot of give in the right place," says bunion sufferer Connie Esmond, 63, of Broken Arrow, OK.

Your 10 Biggest Walking Pains, Solved Best Walking Shoes For: Feeling Like You're Barefoot Barefoot walking is a growing trend, but these minimally padded shoes protect your feet from the perils of the pavement while giving you much of the flexibility and foot-strengthening benefits of going au naturel. "I liked the narrow sole—it didn't feel at all clunky, like some sports shoes do," says tester Carina Ready, 35, of Casper, WY. To avoid overworking your foot muscles, start with short 15-to 20-minute walks, and increase your workouts by about 5 minutes a week. You'll walk more lightly (minimizing the shock caused by your steps), and the strength you may gain can help prevent conditions such as fallen arches. Best Walking Shoes For: Dressing Up These shoes have a hip look, thanks to the asymmetrical strap, yet they provide the comfort of sneakers with cushioned insoles and arch support. "I could walk for longer than I can in flats," says Jodi Standish, 32, of Bellevue, NE. "My heels and arches felt great."

The leather upper molds to your foot after a few wears for a snug—but not tight—fit. Best Walking Shoes For: Walking Away Foot Pain Mini rubber nubs on the insoles massage your feet as you walk. If you tire of the effect, flip the insoles over—they're reversible and have a smooth bottom side. "This shoe felt as light as a flip-flop and was dressy enough to wear out to dinner," says tester Rachelle Powell, 45, of Mesquite, TX. The tapered heels stay put—no slipping! 10 Common Walking Injuries: How to Ease Foot and Leg Pain Best Walking Shoes For: All-Day Wear These casual sneakers are sturdier than they look, making them a comfy choice for activities such as sightseeing, when you're on your feet for hours. The sole—made of slip-resistant Vibram rubber—is firm in the back and flexible in the front. "I usually take off my shoes as soon as I get home, but I wore these late into the night without even noticing," says Kristina Donatelli, 39, of Bethlehem, PA. Is It Time for New Shoes?