Walking for fitness is on the rise, but most walkers are still wearing running shoes and that could impair natural movement and hinder them from walking further for longer.
Last month, Clarks launched its first-ever performance shoe – Clarks Pace – that is specialist-designed and scientifically backed for walking. It has a dual-layer sole to compress and rebound with each step to propel walkers forward. Available in four unisex colours, the Clarks Pace is retailed at £99 and shoppers found them ‘more comfortable’ than other popular brands like Skechers.
Recent studies show that over half of Brits walk for fitness each week, averaging 230 miles a year — a distance that has increased by 13% since the start of the pandemic, highlighting a growing trend in fitness walking. But unlike running, walking involves longer ground contact, smoother transitions, and lower-impact movements.
This is where the Clarks Pace fits in. The shoe is easily recognised by the S-curve moulded heel counter, which provides a secure fit and reduces pressure on the Achilles during heel strike.
With that said, shoppers don’t need to a « break-in » period, thanks to the clever design. One shopper shared: « I needed a new pair of walking shoes. I usually buy Skechers but I saw these and decided to give them a try.
« I am glad I did. The support is excellent, the fit is just right. I wear 9 wide and these are perfect for my feet. I had bunion corrective surgery and these shoes fit. No more blisters or sore toes from too narrow shoes. »
A second customer said: « Very comfortable footware, they are that good I have ordered another pair. » The shoes are available in full and half sizes in standard width, however, some shoppers found the shoes ‘too narrow’.
A customer noted: « It was too narrow for my foot. The feel and quality of the Pace was great just not the right width for my foot. Please make a wide fitting. »
Another commented: « Returned shoes as it’s not wide enough for me. » Elsewhere, Geox’s Spherica Plus sneakers, £109.90, feature breathable and ultra-cushioning material, making it an ideal everyday piece of footwear and will lift casual styling with a dash of sporty energy.
Plus, the slip-on design offers a quick and easy foot entry without any need to use your hands. Asics’ Gel Mission walking shoes, £65, is made of an EVA midsole for stability, and a mesh insole to help the air flow in and out.
It has an overall 4.5 rating. One shopper added: « They are true to size and comfortable as I was having problems with my feet but these trainers have helped with walking and comfort, would recommend. »
Dawn Porto, Global Head of Product at Clarks, said of the Pace shoe: « It’s purpose-built to support the movement of walking and scientifically engineered to help you walk further, for longer. »
Clarks Pace features a modern, sleek silhouette made from breathable knit materials and comes in a range of colours for men and women, including: black, white, off-white, black and white, grey, navy blue, aqua combi, lime freen combi, sand combi, and dusty rose pink.
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