Foot gear

From heel to toe, your shoes are your best ally on the walking trail. Do yours measure up?

Heel Counter: Needs to be firm to keep your foot straight. It shouldn't slide up and down which could lead to blisters or worse, sprains.
Heel: The bottom should be as wide as the shoe and no more than 1 1/2 inch in height. Too-flat shoes put strain on the achilles tendon.
Sole: It should be rigid and bend only at the ball of your foot. Rubber is best for shock absorption.
Arch: If the shoe doesn't have built-in arch support, purchase the drugstore variety for extra cushioning.
Toe Box: Look for depth, not narrowness. All your toes should feel free to wiggle.