As a lifelong athlete and former coach, I have learned there is one thing we should never skimp on: our footwear. This is true for anyone with an active lifestyle. If your feet aren't happy, it's almost impossible to enjoy such simple pleasures as a revitalizing walk in a beautiful park. Recently, when I began preparing with my dog, Finn, for a charity walking event, I could tell it was time to replace my worn-out running shoes. My knees and hips were sore after every three-mile workout. Fortunately, I was able to quickly alleviate my joint pain and discomfort by switching to a new pair of
Ryka Devo Plus 2 walking shoes. I'd like to share with you why this is my fifth purchase of Ryka shoes.
If you haven't discovered the Ryka brand yet, you are in for a treat. First and foremost, Ryka is a company specializing in footwear for women. It makes all the difference in the world when such an important product is customized for the female anatomy. Until I found Ryka, my super sensitive feet suffered when forced into shoes that were essentially men's footwear sized down for women. For a long time, that was really the only option we had.
Imagine my delight, then, when I tried on my first pair of Ryka training shoes. My feet were ecstatic. For the first time in, well, forever, blisters, sore heels, and aching arches were a thing of the past. Fast forward to today — nearly 15 years and thousands of miles since buying my first Ryka fitness shoes. Having previously owned four pairs of their running and cross-training shoes, it was time to purchase a pair specifically geared towards walking. In case you are wondering, yes, it does make a difference when you wear shoes made for a particular activity.
It was easy to choose the
Ryka Devo (Devotion) Plus 2 walking shoes. They are wildly popular and are a best-seller on Amazon. As I skimmed through a sampling of hundreds of five-star rated reviews, it was apparent why so many women are totally devoted to this particular Ryka shoe. As soon as my new shoes arrived, I joined the legion of fans.
Right out of the box I experienced something quite rare: no break-in period with the Devo Plus 2 shoes. Amazingly, I was able to immediately walk for miles without my usual knee pain. What a relief! Here are a few additional things I love about my new Ryka walking shoes:
- Luxurious cushioning.
- So lightweight I barely know I am wearing shoes.
- Breathable mesh that keeps my feet perfectly cool.
- My feet feel refreshed even after a 12-hour day on the go.
And did I mention all the great color options? I went with the navy/teal combo, which goes so well with my typical casual wardrobe. I have a feeling you will be drawn to one of these pleasing color choices: black/purple, blue/pink, white/blue, grey/coral, plum/turquoise, grey/teal, black/pink, or navy/teal. I like several of these combinations.
As you can probably tell, I highly recommend the
Ryka Women's Devo Plus 2 walking shoes. I am completely satisfied with their value, excellent quality, and the great deal I got on Amazon (25% off retail and free two-day shipping). When you check out additional buyer comments, by following any of the links in this review, you will learn that many women have made this shoe their preferred everyday work shoe (like nurses and other professionals who spend a lot of time on their feet every day). Having worn these shoes daily now for about a month, I am not surprised. Have you tried the Ryka brand? If so, I hope you will share your experience. Thanks for stopping by!
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
I really need some great walking shoes myself. Even a trip to the grocery store reminds me that I needs the added cushioning on my feet for my knees. I would love to know what socks you wear with these shoes. Lately, it has become very difficult for me to find lightweight socks to wear with shoes that don't make my feet to hot. Thanks for a wonderful recommendation and review!
ReplyDeleteI wear SmartWool socks almost exclusively. They wick away moisture and keep my feet comfortable during any excursion. There are many different weights (thicknesses) to choose from. For hiking, I wear a double layer (light sock under a medium sock). You can’t go wrong with the SmartWool brand.
ReplyDeleteThank you!
DeleteMy pleasure. You are very welcome. Glad you asked.
DeleteWhat a timely review for me. I just found out I will be travelling again this year and I do want to make the most of my time with walking and hikes. I will have to look for this brand because I know you do a lot of walking and if you recommend them, they must be good!
ReplyDeleteThese are perfect traveling shoes. You will walk in total comfort, which is so important when on the go. Nothing ruins a trip faster than sore, tired, hot, or blistered feet. I speak from experience. Here's to safe, and fulfilling, travels. Thanks for visiting my review. Always wonderful to see you.
DeleteThis is very timely for me. Im seriously considering new walking shoes and I have very hard feet to fit. I'll take a look at these. Thanks for the information.
ReplyDeleteI hope you find what you need. My feet have always been a challenge when it comes to a good fit, so I can relate.
DeleteThese sound like excellent shoes. I'll keep them in mind for my next purchase. My knees require TLC as well. Coincidentally I just purchased two new pairs of sketchers! My first sketchers, so far I love them. But now that Ryka are on my radar, I'll have to give them a try in the store next time.
ReplyDeleteGlad you are enjoying your new Sketchers. I’ve not yet tried that brand. It’s fun to get new shoes.
DeleteThis review is perfectly timed. I am very close to needing to replace my current walking shoes and delighted to have such a good recommendation.
ReplyDeleteI was hoping this review could be helpful. Glad it came at a good time for you.
DeleteThank you for the review. I have a really hard time finding comfortable shoes. And if I wear the wrong shoes to work, I'm miserable. I usually get Dr. Scholl's or Sketchers. But I plan to shoe-shop soon. I'm going to look for this brand and try some one.
ReplyDeleteHope you get the chance to give these a test drive. Wishing you the comfort you seek.
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