Walking advice and preparation

We have spoken to one of our local sports retailers – Fletcher Sports –  for some tips on appropriate footwear and how to look after your feet on the day. Fletcher Sports has also kindly offered to donate sponsorship money for anyone buying Asics shoes from them – see below for details.

Every customer registered for the Saffery Champness Rotary Walk who buys a pair of Asics shoes from Fletcher Sports, will be eligible for £5 sponsorship from the shop.

(N.B. If you don’t have your form with you at the time of purchase, you can pop in another time as long as you bring your receipt with you).

Before buying any training shoes make sure the retailer knows what event you are training for – particularly the distance and terrain to ensure you buy shoes that are fit for purpose.

You should be made aware of the options of cushioning, support, stability and multi-terrain.

Your shoes should feel comfortable as soon as you put them on. Different laces and lacing patterns will add to the comfort.

It is essential to try both shoes on as people tend to have one foot slightly larger than the other.

When trying on the trainer you should stand up allowing your foot to spread to ensure of a correct fitting and size.

There should be at least a finger space between the end of your toes and the shoe otherwise you will be in danger of bruising and potentially losing your toe nails.

If you are in any doubt you should try the shoes around home to help wear them in.

On fitting you should avoid any heel or foot movement which is likely to cause discomfort – the correct fitting is essential.

Buying the correct sock is as important as your shoes.

Socks that are made from synthetic materials (acrylic, CoolMax, nylon, Polartec) are preferred because they will wick away the moisture as apposed to 100% cotton that retains moisture and tends to lose its shape.

Trial several different kinds of socks throughout your training to insure you have the best sock to suit your feet. Remember, what suits one person may not suit another.

Some socks are double layered such as ‘Hilly Twin Skin’ and ‘1000 Mile Fusion’. The theory behind them is simple but clever, one layer remains close to the skin and other layer remains close to the shoe therefore friction is eliminated.

Some socks come with fully padded Achilles tendon protection, braced arch support, and additional heel and toe protection.

The advantage of a performance sock is they have the added feature of enhanced moisture transfer, wicking moisture away from the skin to the outer layer.

Sample and try on a variety of socks to find a pair that suits you best.

To ensure you have maximum comfort levels it is advisable that your shoes and socks are bought and used well in advance of the walk.