FITNESS 2009 Sneaker Guide: The Best Walking Shoes

Winner: Best Road Walking Shoe

Asics GEL-Fluent LV

This flowery, well-cushioned shoe adds a spring to your step. Plus, its supportive heel and flexible outsole point your foot in the right direction as you stride, helping to prevent injury.

"They felt as comfortable as my running shoes," says one tester, a racewalking coach who has competed in an Olympic trial for the sport. "They're supportive, athletic, and light."

($85, asics.com for stores)