The Boston based company New Balance has been in the shoe business for years.  Nowadays, they're known all over the world for their running shoes, their walking shoes and their footwear specifically engineered for a number of different sports.  One of their most popular shoes is designed for walking.  I'm talking, of course, about the New Balance 811.  So what the heck is a walking shoe anyway?  Well, as walking becomes more and more popular, people are demanding more comfortable shoes.  They also want something that supports their ankles and helps to prevent lower body injuries.  If you're new to walking or you've been doing it for years, you want to consider using the New Balance 811.

New balance has long been known for using technology to improve their shoes. The 811 products are no different. We'll discuss this along with what the public thinks about these shoes in the text below. As you read on, keep in mind that there is a ton of information about shoes on the Internet. It's also possible to get some pretty good deals online these days! So don't be shy! Get out there, read some reviews, and buy the shoes that are right for you.  Off to the right I've included a link to Amazon.com.  They have a bunch of different walking shoes available.  As long as you know what size you are, I recommend buying shoes online.  You'll get the model and color you want - without having to wait!

New Balance 811's - The Basics

The 811 is a classic walking shoe.  It's got a fairly high ankle but it's definitely not too high.  Nothing is worse than an ultra high top.  You do want some support, though.  This shoe finds a happy medium here.  The shoe is also very stable.  This has to do with the ROLLBAR Support System that we'll discuss under the technology heading.  Another thing I really like about this shoe is the fact that it's made in the USA.  There is something disturbing about the fact that almost all of Nike's shoes are manufactured off shore.  I prefer to support the local economy.  The fact that these shoes are made close to home also means that you're getting a very high quality product.  One thing that should be noted about these walking shoes is that they are fairly narrow.  This works out great for me because I have a fairly narrow foot.  If your feet are a bit wider, you may want to consider the New Balance 991's.

New Balance 811's - The Technology

As I mentioned earlier, New Balance takes great pride in using new technologies in their shoes.  The 811 sneakers have two really cool features.  The first one that's very important is the ROLLBAR Support System.  A system similar to this is a absolute must for any walking shoe.  It basically gives your ankle and lower leg extra support.  This not only provides comfort but also helps to prevent injuries.

The other bit of technology that you'll find the 811's is what New Balance calls "Walking Strike Path".  This feature encourages proper walking technique.  Walking with improper technique can lead to problems with gait down the road.  The New Balance 811 Walking Shoes correct gait, prevent injuries and build muscle groups critical for walking strength.

New Balance 811's - The Reviews

For the most part, people love these shoes.  The one complaint I've heard about them is that they are too loud.  One fellow, in particular, told a story about how he used to wear them inside because they were so comfortable.  The problem with this was that he had a wood floor and tenants below him would often hear him walking around upstairs.  Other people have said that it sounds like your stepping in a puddle every time you make a stride.  Other than this little problem, though, the 811's are pretty much flawless.  They're extremely easy to break in, for example.  So many running or walking shoes on the market leave the new user with blisters and sore feet before they are finally broken in.  The 811's however have a way of "just fitting".  These shoes are also really easy to keep clean.  The natural materials that they are made of make it difficult for dirt to stick to them.  This is bad for dirt, but good for you!

One final thing that I love about these shoes is the fact that you can wear them anywhere!  You don't have to be exercising or working out to enjoy the 811's.  They are equally as good for shopping, hanging out in the park, or walking around your own home.  Just refrain from doing the latter if you have wood floors and a grumpy neighbor below you :)