Smart Stuff for Walkers

Walk Better With Great Gear

Once you've started a walking plan, reward yourself with some of these accessories that make walking more fun, convenient and safe.

>    BodyTrend's Healthy Walking Solution ($39.99, at www.bodytrends.com) A kit featuring a pedometer to count your steps, miles, calories burned and average speed, and a heart rate monitor to gauge your intensity.

>    Brown's Best Footwear Shield ($8.95, at shoe stores) Spray on your walking shoes to protect them from wetness and stretching.

>    Scented Sneaker Balls ($8, at www.newbalancecata log.com) Slip these scented balls into your sneakers post-walk to keep odors from accumulating.

>    Cell Phone Holder ($17, at sporting good stores) Strap this to your belt so help - or a pick-me-up chat - is always at hand.

>    Cell Phone Head Set (about $30, at electronics stores) Catch up on calls or get support from a pal while you walk.

>    Tilley T-3 Hat ($59.95, at www.thewalkingco.com) A broad-brimmed, waterproof hat that keeps off sun and rain.

>    Microbeam Flashlight ($20, at Brookstone) This tiny light is small enough to attach to your key chain and bright enough to be seen for a mile.

>    New Balance Socks with Teflon ($14, at New Balance stores) Teflon knitted into these socks helps prevent blisters.

>    Walk With Ease ($14.95) is the Arthritis Foundation's audiotape that combines walking tips, stretch instructions and fun music to help you keep the pace.

>    Microlight Voyager Shell ($112, at www.athleta.com) This lightweight, hooded jacket deflects wind and rain and easily converts to a vest for warmer days.

>    Solar Eclipse Short-Sleeve Shirt ($33, at www.sun-protective-clothing.com) This shirt protects you from 95 percent of the sun's harmful rays.

>    Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock, SPF 30 ($12, at drugstores) Sun protection is a must for outdoor walkers, and this lightweight, non-greasy formula is designed specially for sensitive skin.

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Just-Right Walking Plan | Before You Start | Tread on Me | Is Your Town Making You Fat? | Cool and Stretch | Top Walking Questions | 6 Reasons to Stick with Walking | Which Shoe for You? | Shoe Shopping Tips | Tie 'Em Right | Walk Better with Great Gear