Know The Difference Between Running Shoes And Walking Shoes In 2023
Is running shoes and walking shoes are same?
No! They both are different.
Many people think running shoes and walking shoes are the same. They can use walking shoes like running shoes.
But we should always AVOID this because both are different at the core.
Only the right kind of shoes built for a specific purpose help you achieve your goals easily and keeps your legs, joints, and muscles safe.
In this blog post, You will discover why we should not use walking shoes for running and the reason behind it.
What Is The Difference Between Running Shoes And Walking Shoes?
The shoe Flexibility and the sole is a big difference among them. Running shoes are more flexible and blend along with high heels for cushion comfort. But, Walking shoes have a flat sole and a little flex which is comfortable for walking.
If you are a beginner runner and looking for a good pair of shoes then it is very essential for you that you must be aware of both the shoes.
You will never want to put your leg into a shoe that is not suitable for the run and cause discomfort.
Let’s discuss more on the characteristics and types of running shoes so you will get a better understanding of both the shoes.
The Different Characteristics Of Running Shoes And Walking shoes
Running shoes and walking shoes both show different characteristics.
1. Cushioning
- For runners:
While running runners suffer 3X the impact from the ground as compared to walking. So to absorb such high impact while running, runners need extra cushioning. Hence, extra cushioning shoes work best for a runner.
- For walkers:
While walking, you suffer very little impact as half of your body weight. So, such impact is bearable or negligible. Thus, for walkers, there is no need for extra cushioning. Extra cushioning may increase the weight of the shoes which may cause problems while walking.
2. Flexibility
- For runners:
Runners need more flexibility for faster and running without any injury. But it depends because some runners flex their toes from midfoot and some at fore-foot. You can choose a shoe according to your flexing type.
Motion-control shoes are less flexible. Runners have to sacrifice some amount of flexibility to control the motion. Hence, motion control shoes can be a great running shoe option.
- For walkers:
Even for daily walkers, the shoe needs to be flexible from the arch/midfoot. Here also the motion control shoe can be a perfect option.
3. Height Of The Heels
- For runners:
Runners need heeled-up running shoes for quality stability. While running runners strike the ground with an impact from the heel or the mid-arch foot to speed up. Thus, they need high heeled up shoes for ground support.
- For walkers:
Walkers don’t strike with midfoot/arch or toes. Instead, they use their heel and roll up the toes for a walk. Thus there is no such need for high heels for walkers.
Types Of Running Shoes
Running shoes are classified into different categories according to the running nature. Because as running surface differs the running shoes also vary.
You can not wear the road running shoes for the train running or you can’t wear the trail shoes for running on the plane concrete roads.
So, to meet the needs and serve the best performance, there are three main types of running shoes designed for specific jobs.
Let’s see the types:
1. Stability Shoes
Stability shoes are best for motion control and cushion. They are pretty light in weight and offer you quality support on your legs. These shoes come with semi-curved in the last part for most ground connect and stability.
The stability shes are specifically designed for Overpronation of for those who have flat feet. These shoes maximize running performance by improving comfort and minimizes the risk of injuries.
See the best Stability shoes suggest by expert runners.
2. Cushioning Shoes
Cushioning shoes are generally lighter but offer no motion control. For faster and comfortable movement cushioning shoes have curved/semi-curved lasts.
These types of shoes are ideally designed for long-distance running or marathon running. They provide more cushioning comfort required for long runs.
See the best lightweight cushioned running shoes for long-distance running or marathon running.
3. Motion-Control Shoes
These shoes have a higher density on the inner midsole for extra support and stability. For slowing down the pronation of the legs these shoes are most supportive.
Motion-control shoes have less flexibility and stability than Stability shoes due to their sturdy and most durable nature.
These shoes are also designed for people who have flat feet or Overpronation but from a different angle.
See the most durable Motion-control shoes picked by the editor.
Buying Guide: Things That Help You Pick The Right Shoes
Buying a running shoe that gives you a comfortable run can be a bit tough. Remember these tips and you will get perfect running shoes for yourself.
1. If you feel injured or swelled up legs, don’t go buying.
If your legs are swelled up or injured, the size or fitting may not feel comfortable. So, it is highly recommended not to buy/try any running or walking shoes.
2. Do wear socks while trying running shoes.
The fitting may feel comfortable without socks. But when you try the same shoe with socks, it may feel tight. It is recommended to use socks for proper fitting.
3. Check the fitting of the shoe.
Fitting is the most important aspect of running or walking shoes. Check the proper size and tightness and padding of the shoe from heel to toe.
4. Comfort first.
Always go for comfort first. Don’t buy a shoe because they look stylish or it is of your favorite color or it’s in trend.
5. Select a shoe according to your work routine.
If you are looking for long-term shoes and daily wear shoes, keep your daily routine in mind and select the shoes accordingly.
In Summary
So, these were our small guide on the difference between running shoes and walking shoes. Hope this article will help you in the right decision making to choose the right shoes.
We must say, both the shoes have their own benefits and are good from the fitness and health point of view.
The only thing that matters is comfort and the right fit of shoes that help you to finish the job happily. So, choose the right shoes for your feet and hit the finishing line safely.
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