Asics running shoes.

I work in hospitality (FoH) and walk a great deal but also spend a lot of time standing. These were recommended to me first by a chiropodist and then later by a specialist when I started to get ankle, shin, knee and back pain. I think I'm naturally quite badly put together haha, and also heavier than I should be. These shoes have made it possible to continue in my career.

It's worth finding out your "pronation" i.e. how you walk/ run. I was told that I "over-pronate", meaning I strike down with the outside of my heels and roll my weight inwards to the big toe. This (I was told) is partly because of my flattish arches and wide toe base, but also the way I am built overall and the fact that I should be slimmer.

In my specific case Gel-Kayanos are ideal; they are one of their flagship shoes but they bring out new models annually but you can get slightly older models that are very nearly just as good for less.

I also buy their men's versions (am a woman) now as they have a broader toe box which fits me better -I used to get the women's ones but as they flexed to the width of my feet they pulled on my toes to compensate (I tried buying bigger ones but they were too long!), but this isn't solely Asics; since I stopped wearing Vans and such for leisure many many years ago I find all women's trainers are a bit narrow.

Because of the time I spend on my feet and the mileage I walk, I have to buy a new pair every 6-9 months, costing £120-£170 each time, but on the lower end usually. This isnt a reflection on the shoes; running shoes need to have sufficient cushioning and flexibility to truly protect your movement and will lose their functionality through wear.

One downside for me is that because they are primarily designed for running, the upper is quite light and meshed. Brilliant because they never get smelly, but in my job I do occasionally end up with wet feet if something is spilled. They do dry very quickly, but I managed to dump very hot water over my own feet during our busiest day of the year last year (long story) and had to strip off my shoes and socks and plunge my feet in cold water for a bit.

Several of my colleagues wear Skechers and most get on very well with them but a couple still suffer after several long shifts and are going to try Asics next - others are full converts. Others are perfectly ok walking around in formal shoes!

I promise I have nothing to do with Asics, I just find them excellent.

Please do your own research, including consulting professionals if you can. If you go to the gym then one of the PTs might be able to give advice; perhaps treat yourself to a chiropody appointment and ask advice; or if you, like me, have cumulative issues, try to get your GP to refer you.

Good luck, I hope you end up with happier feet!!