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For anyone who enjoys getting their steps in, warmer weather means more time outside strolling, jogging, and enjoying the sunlight on foot. The only issue? After a winter of slushy grounds and miles on the treadmill, even the most trustworthy of sneakers start to deteriorate and lose their shape. Fortunately, Zappos’s immense sneaker sale arrived just in the nick of time for a renewal, and it even includes brands sanctioned by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), like Brooks, Saucony, and New Balance.
To be eligible for an APMA Seal of Acceptance, brands must be examined and confirmed by podiatrists for their advocacy of comfort, safety, and “good foot health,” according to the organization. When it comes to the shoes below, anticipate soft soles, added steadiness, and of course, significant savings.
Best Padded: New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon V3 Sneaker
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Among the numerous New Balance pairs marked down are the extremely cushioned Fresh Foam v3s in both wide and medium widths. In addition to layers of impact-absorbing cushioning on the midsole, these kicks feature a breathable knit upper that’s so lightweight, the brand describes it as “nearly imperceptible.” Plus, they’re so cozy, one shopper even wore theirs “directly out of the box” on a seven-mile run and “felt excellent during and after.”
Best Lightweight: Saucony Kinvara 12 Sneaker
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If you’re searching for a low-weight shoe that’s both pliable and supportive, Saucony’s cohesion 14 might be the sneaker for you. “They are genuinely lightweight and have elevated arch support, which I need,” noted one customer. Other reviewers added that the elevated, cushioned arch aided them in feeling secure on their runs and walks. What’s more, these kicks also include the brand’s responsive PWRRUN midsole for an additional bounce in every step.
Top Choice for Road Running: Brooks Revel 4 Sneaker
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A fantastic choice for road running is the Brooks Revel 4 sneaker. It must be lightweight, capable of absorbing shocks, and highly responsive, and the Revel 4 fulfills all of these requirements. With the incorporation of Brooks BioMoGo DNA technology, which you can read more about here, this shoe features an airy foam that effectively safeguards the joints from impact, returning it in a manner that propels you forward. One satisfied customer expressed, “After a run, my feet and legs feel significantly better, both immediately and later in the day.” As an added bonus, the soles of the Revel 4 sneakers are biodegradable.
Ideal Choice for Foot Pain: Altra Rivera Sneaker
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When it comes to addressing foot pain, the Altra Rivera sneaker is a sleek and breathable option, suitable for both running and cross-training. Thanks to its Balanced Cushioning, which you can learn more about here, it specifically caters to individuals prone to foot pain. The Footshape toe box by the brand promotes the natural spreading of toes, allowing them to relax. Additionally, the unique padding in the sole evenly distributes your weight between the forefoot and heel, preventing soreness. A reviewer shared, “I randomly tried these on at a store, and to my surprise, I experienced no foot pain. They are incredibly comfortable and cushioned, despite being lightweight.”
Optimal Choice for Walking: New Balance NB Nergize Sport Sneaker
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Upon reviewing feedback for the New Balance NB Nergize Sport sneaker, the most commonly mentioned word is “comfortable.” According to one user, this particular pair is immediately comfortable and does not require any breaking in. Another customer expressed excitement about using them for long walks once the weather gets nicer. While these sneakers are not designed for running, their snug upper and memory foam sole make them an excellent choice for extended periods of standing or walking.
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