The Best Alternative to Nike Walking Shoes
Nike is obviously one of the most popular sportswear brands on the planet. So, it's no surprise that when most people need a great pair of walking shoes, they'll check out Nike first. Nike has proven its ability to produce innovative footwear that stands the test of time over and over again.
Launched in 1964, Nike continues to dominate in the market when it comes to comfortable and durable footwear. Whether it's for running or for everyday use, you can be sure that a pair from the brand will be well worth the price. By creating groundbreaking innovations and offering the best sustainable products, the brand continues to impact our society positively.
When it comes to walking shoes, you want a pair that will support and protect you no matter how many hours you wear them for. One factor that makes Nike ones the best in the market is their comfort, durability, protection, and lightweight nature.
When it comes to walking, Nike offers airy options thanks to their design combining midsole and outsole cushioning. This reduces the quantity of rubber used. Whether you want to get walking shoes for going to the park, for simple exercise, or to make your outfits pop, Nike will not disappoint.
Some notable Nike options for walking include: Flex Experience 8, Infinity Run, Air Zoom Wildhorse 5, CruzrOne for men and women, Air Zoom Terra Kiger 5, and Joyride.
Pros of Nike Walking Shoes
- Not heavy.
- Very high-quality and durable.
- Come in different styles and colours.
- Breathable.
- Good traction to handle different terrains.
- Provide you with good grip and stability.
- Complement your outfits.
Cons of Nike Walking Shoes
- Not 100% waterproof.
- Some are not available in a wide fit.
- Some designs can be expensive.
- Some designs fail to cater to both genders.
Best Alternative to Nike Walking Shoes: Vessi
Although Nike is a tough act to follow, the Vessi footwear brand has managed to produce sneakers that can go toe to toe with the best Nike options.
In 2017, three innovative problem-solving and ambitious Vancouverites set out to change the world as we know it with their exceptional sneakers. They created a product designed to keep you dry, comfortable, sweat-free, and stylish all year round.
These Vessi sneakers are everyday sneakers and the perfect footwear. Here's why.
Why Vessi?
Vessi sneakers keep your feet comfortable no matter what activity you are doing. Made for both men and women, they're made with high-quality materials and can be worn every day and in any weather.
You can say goodbye to ruining your outfit with ugly gumboots on a rainy day. Thanks to these Vessi shoes, you can do any activity in any weather. Vessi footwear is just as comfortable and durable as Nike footwear, if not more so.
The fact that these shoes are designed to be everyday options makes them perfect for walking. Let's look at three different sneakers you can choose from if you want to try something different from Nike.
1. Vessi Everyday Sneaker
What could be more suitable for walking than something called the Everyday shoe? These Vessi shoes are 100% waterproof, comfortable, stable, ultra-light, bouncy, and protective. They're also great for men or women. If you're afraid of getting injuries from your footwear and have been longing to find the perfect walking shoes, you're in luck as Vessi is a great contender against Nike.
One way to ensure that your feet stay away from injuries is to pick the right size. Vessi knows this and gives you a fit guide that you can use to select the right size for you. This way, you won't choose wrong and then have to come back for a substitute.
The breathable knit of these shoes ensures that you don't get sweaty no matter how much you walk or jog. The antibacterial insoles also help to keep your feet dry and healthy even after hitting those miles.
These airy everyday sneakers will improve how you interact with shoes. This is because you won't have to spend time deciding which ones to wear on your walk or jog.
Pros
- Lightweight.
- Very high-quality.
- Durable.
- Breathable knit.
- 100% waterproof.
- Extremely comfortable.
Cons
- Not machine washable.
2. Vessi Weekend Sneaker
Whether you're walking at home or at work, these Weekend sneakers will make the experience more seamless. Once you get a pair of these slip-resistant shoes, you'll be able to walk in any weather, whether it's during the weekend or not.
These shoes have soft insoles that keep you feeling great while keeping sweat and odor at bay. You can remove these insoles and clean them separately when the need arises. This will give you access to a clean footbed when you want to wear the shoe next.
If you'd like a different insole, you can replace the Vessi ones with others of your choice. The rubber sole on all Vessis features a herringbone grip to give you better traction as you go about your day. The thick sole is also created to arrest midfoot impact to make your walk as smooth as possible.
Pros
- Wide toe box.
- 100% waterproof.
- Removable insoles.
- Machine washable.
- Lightweight.
- Anti-slip bottom for extra protection.
Cons
- Not suitable for extremely cold climates.
3. Vessi Cityscape Sneakers
These Cityscape sneakers give you great value for your money whether you live in the city or not. Just like the Nike shoes, they're nice to walk in and offer great support. The antibacterial insoles keep your feet fresh no matter how long you stroll around in them.
The cloud-like feeling Vessi offers ensures that you're are comfortable all day long. If you love shoes with light soles, you'll fall in love with these. Thanks to their signature grasp, you'll be able to maintain your balance no matter the terrain you're walking on.
Vessi shoes also adapt to the temperature they're in and can help you remain warm in winter and cool in summer. Different Nike shoes have different weights. This gives this cityscape an advantage over them, thanks to its ultra-light nature.
Pros
- Durable.
- 100% waterproof.
- Ultra-lightweight.
- Odour-free.
- Very comfortable.
Cons
- Lack extra arch support.
Factors to Consider When Buying Walking Shoes
1. Comfort
Comfort is vital when choosing the best pair. You want to select the best products that will allow you to wander as far as you'd like without having to adjust your foot. You may also realize that you need new shoes to update or replace worn-out ones that have become uncomfortable.
Ensure that the shoe's lining is not too hard as this may cause you to get blisters. Sort through the available options to find the ones that offer you the most comfort. Remember that your foot expands as the day gets warmer. Therefore, take into account this change as you select your shoe.
2. Style
You'll often find that people judge you based on your footwear. Therefore, choosing a shoe representing your style can go a long way in making you feel confident. Paying attention to the details of your Nike or Vessi shoes will allow you to choose the style that catches your eye.
Whether or not you live within the United Kingdom or the United States, choosing a design that speaks to you will increase your confidence as you walk.
3. Durability
Investing in a high-quality walking shoe will allow you to enjoy it for a longer time. Read through the provided details to search for more information before making your purchase.
Choose a pair that can handle all the miles you'll adventure in without losing their qualities. The materials used to make the shoe also play into how durable it will be. Vessi uses very high-quality materials, which makes them a very durable and high-quality option.
3. Arch Type
As you walk, the flexibility of your arch helps distribute your body weight evenly across your feet. This is why it's important to choose a shoe based on your arch type. Your arches contribute to how you adapt to the different surfaces you use them on.
Although you can't control the terrain you're on, you can ensure that your feet are properly protected and equipped to handle anything they encounter. Arch types fall into three main categories:
a) Neutral Arch
If you have neutral arches, you'll notice that they aren't overly arched or overly flat. If you relate to this description, choose walking or running shoes with firm midsoles, straight to semi-curved lasts, and moderate rear-foot stability.
b) Low or Flat Arch
Some individuals who have low arches may find that they experience muscle stress and joint problems. If you have these issues or just have flat feet, choose running shoes with motion control. This will help you stabilize yourself as you walk.
c) High Arches
You've likely heard of high arches when referring to running shoes. The same applies to walking shoes. If you have high arches, you may run the risk of experiencing excessive strain on your joints and muscles. This is because your feet may not absorb shock very well.
If this is the case for you, search for shoes that have proper cushioning to ensure that you get proper shock absorption. A curved last can also help in this case.
4. Price
The price of the shoe you want may be influenced by several factors, including the quality of materials used to make it. Ensuring you are working within your budget without compromising on quality.
Luckily, all Vessi and Nike options are affordable and perfectly priced. You can comfortably go with the shoe that you feel meets your requirements at an affordable price.
5. Flexible Sole
A good sign that the shoe is good is a flexible sole. This means that it can easily bend. Vessi collections have incredible flexibility in addition to being ultra-lightweight. Especially when it comes to the Vessi Cityscape sneaker - you'll be in awe at how light the sole is.
Ensure that the width is the right size as well and that the sole fits well into what you want.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which Vessi style has the strongest arch support?
The Vessi Weekend sneaker is the best for arch support. All Vessi collections are designed to be casual options that you can comfortably go to the shop or a long walk in.
However, the Weekend style is great for you if you have high arches and need a bit more help in that area.
2. How do I prolong the life of my Vessis?
Proper maintenance will allow you to enjoy your Vessis for a long time. A good tip if you live in a snowy region where the road is regularly salted is to rinse your shoes once you get home. This is because these salts can erode the soles.
Another tip to consider is to be careful when taking them off. Even if you get to the house tired and just want to change into something more comfortable, avoid kicking off your shoes. Carefully remove them using your hands instead.
You can also wear socks with your Vessis, although this is optional. This can help to wick away moisture and prolong the lifespan of your shoes.
3. How do I choose a good walking shoe?
Consider the factors we've discussed above, such as durability, quality, arch type, and more. Another factor to consider is the width. Ensure that the design you select for walking is wide enough. However, ensure that the side-to-side fit is also not tight.
It should be snug enough to offer support and protection but not tight as this may hurt you. If you are a woman and have wide feet, you can try out men's sizes to see if they fit you better. This is a nice hack to have under your belt.
