@the_abecedarian@piefed.social
Padded shoes are worse for your joints. This is a common misconception from poor studies of 10+ years ago. You're better off with thinner soles to build bone density and strengthen tendons.
That being said, better shoes are still a thing. Shoes made for walking and running, like zero drop Altras, may be a good transition from the Vans.
In any event, congrats on the extra years of life!