I've been walking 4.5 miles a day, 5 days a week since Jan 2nd. As of today, I have lost ~53 pounds, gone from being pre-diabetic to normal levels, lost my entire wardrobe in the process, and finally my Vans died. They have been loyal a.f.
Glad they helped me on this journey to better health.
Everyone here trying to tell you to get more padded shoes. I'm going to suggest another route.
Vans are relatively flat "skater" shoes. It tells me you're already used to walking without an additional heel.
I recommend looking into low drop or "zero drop" shoes... Aka "barefoot" style shoes.
I personally wear various Lems models when I need a covered shoe. But 99% of the time I wear my Tevas sandles. People go hiking for days and miles in these. I've traveled all around the world walking many miles in them. And my feet and joints have never felt better.
We've evolved for millions of years to walk upright on our feet as they are. Not to walk in padded heels. Our heels are already padded.
Set your feet free and enjoy the breeze in summer time. :)
Maybe it's not for you, but I think it's worth a try. As I think these types of shoes are closer to Vans than buying hiking boots.
But do some reading.. if you actually are more used to a heel on a shoe you can't just switch cold turkey.
Regardless .. congrats on your progress and well done!
I love my low profile shoes. They've significantly improved my back health.