Getting the best gear for your walking ways.

Walking: it’s one of the easiest and best ways to get exercise. It doesn’t require training or expensive gear, it’s free, and you can do it just about anywhere at any time. But don’t let the low cost fool you. While you could go walking wearing your pajamas and slippers, it wouldn’t be ideal.

If walking is your exercise of choice, a few specialized clothing items, gadgets, and accessories may be worth the investment to make your workout easier, safer, and more comfortable. You don’t have to go out and buy them all at once. Over time you may find the need to purchase a new gadget or accessory, but all you really need are the essentials.

Here’s what you need in order to help you walk the way of good health.

Walking Essentials

Quality walking shoes are the most basic items needed for pounding the pavement. They don’t have to be fancy, expensive running shoes. Basic sneakers will do just fine. They should be comfortable, have plenty of toe wiggle room, and a flexible sole. Look for shoes that have a cushioned insole to absorb the shock, a flat outsole, and a breathable layer to keep your feet cool.

Socks are another gear essential when it comes to walking. Instead of cotton, look for socks made of coolmax. These will keep your feet comfortable and dry and help to prevent blisters.

Comfortable but fitting clothing is best for walking. If you’re walking near roads, whether during the day or night, wear bright colors or reflective clothing to increase your visibility. Also, dress appropriately for the type of weather. Layer clothing if necessary so you can shed items as you warm up, and if you’re a lady, wear a supportive sports bra for comfort.

Doing exercise of any type requires plenty of water. Drink before you head out and when you return. If you’ll be out for more than half an hour, take water along, whether in a shoulder carrier or waist pack.

Walking Extras

Ready to go beyond the bare essentials of walking? If you find you need some motivation to walk for exercise, try using a pedometer. When this small device is clipped on your waistband, it will count the number of steps you make. Some even display your mileage, number of calories burned, or heart rate. Some pedometers use a GPS system, which calculates your distance and speed based on the same technology that helps you find the fastest way to your aunt’s house out of town.

If your pedometer doesn’t track your heart rate, you may want to purchase a separate heart rate monitor. Wireless monitors are the most comfortable and easiest to use. These monitors come with a belt and wristwatch that displays your pulse. These are a great way to measure your exertion and work your way slowly toward your target heart rate.

To get moving and make your walk more enjoyable, take along an MP3 player. Music can help the time to go by faster by distracting you. Just make sure the volume is set low enough to allow you to hear the activity around you. And if you’re walking in a high-traffic area, it may be best to keep the headphones off so you can be as alert as possible.

A waist or fanny pack may have lost their popularity since the 1980s, but they are pretty handy when it comes to walking long distances. Strap one on your waist and toss in your keys, phone, water bottle, and safety whistle. This way your hands and arms can swing freely. Don’t want something around your waist? Grab a small backpack.