Running shoes are different than walking shoes by characteristics. It would be best if you should not run wearing walking shoes, since many don’t have the flexibility required for running. It means, for fitness walking, many walking shoes may not be so beneficial for you.
Hence, instead of buying walking shoes, you can choose a running shoe that meets your fitness walking needs. If you know which qualities you are searching for, you can evaluate walking and running shoes and finding out one that will work best.
Running shoes are equipped with various functions, and designers always endeavor to update them with the latest technology and materials. Let’s discuss a few aspects considering which you can quickly come across with a shoe that meets your walking or running needs proficiently.
Cushioning
While running, people impact the ground with weight three times more than their average body weight. But, while walking, your steps will only put half of your body weight on the floor. Therefore, running shoes have more cushioning in the forefoot and heel than walking shoes.
Extra cushioning is not required in walking shoes as they are not designed for protecting you as much as running shoes do. Putting extra cushion makes shoes heavier. Hence, it’s a choice between having a heavier shoe and protecting your feet from shocks or buying one which will make you run faster.
Heel Height
Running shoes have build-up heels that provide stability while people run wearing them. Because of different running styles, various people strike the ground with varying parts of their foot. The forward part of the foot, ball of the foot, or the midfoot, individuals hit the ground with one of these parts while running. Hence, high heels are required in running shoes.
Walker first touches the ground with the heel and roll through the step. That is the reason high heels are not that required in walking shoes.
Heel Flare
Designers equip running shoes with high heels for providing sufficient stability for runners. Besides, flared heels also get attached with running shoes for ensuring some additional strength for people who tend to hit the ground with their forefoot or midfoot. Flared heels are also quite common in trail running shoes.
Walkers tend to strike the ground with their heels. And, shoes with a flared heel can cause hindrance while walkers roll forward through their steps. Quality walking shoes come with undercut heels instead of build-up or flared heels.
Flexibility
Some running shoes are flexible from their midfoot or arch, while others are flexible at their forefoot. These shoes are designed for different running styles.
Motion controlled, or stability shoes are somewhat less flexible than others, as the construction elements limit feet from rotating too much while running. Hence, if you need motion-controlled shoes, you have to sacrifice flexibility a bit.
There is no difference in running, and walking shoes in this segment since both of them need to be sufficiently flexible to make walking more comfortable and relaxing.
Concluding Thoughts
Now you see it! Choosing the right pair of shoes is never easy. Therefore, next time you search for buying a shoe for yourself, consider these aspects and locate a suitable shoe according to your requirements. Choosing the right pair of shoes is also essential from the medical point of view. If you run or walk with a shoe that offers effective care for your feet, you will ensure your feet health excellently.