Why You Should Know Your Running Shoes from Your Walking Shoes
The fact that shoes wear out is an inescapable part of life. We all have lives to live, things to do, people to see, and no one has the time to waste on searching for a specific shoe when there are so many types out there that are just fine.
Or could it be that this reasoning has been wrong all along? There’s so much more to buying the right pair of shoes than meets the eye. Let me guide you through the reasons why.
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What do YOU do?
Not everyone is a runner. People who spend a lot of time on their feet can greatly benefit from investing in a good pair of Nike walking shoes. This is because these shoes are designed to give the wearer stability all around the foot, from the back of the heel, to below the arches. Rather than just picking a pair of shoes that you like the look of, carefully think about how you spend your time on your feet and let that guide your decision.
Surely running shoes are comfy enough?
Comfort is only one of a range of factors that influence that selection of a shoe. Running shoes are, admittedly, wonderfully comfortable, but because they are designed for a different body motion, your shoes should support your movement through the range.
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Support system
Feet with remarkably high arches benefit greatly from a pair of shoes with more cushioning, as this will provide support to the arches. This is a big deal. If the arches remain unsupported, it affects how the foot deals with impact. The same can be said for people with flat feet. Because the natural arches are so low, the foot’s natural ability to support itself is compromised, which can lead to muscle and foot fatigue. If this is you, head for shoes with extra support – you’ll be glad you did!
So what is the ACTUAL difference?
Walking shoes are designed to provide support for a natural activity – walking. They come in a range of performance levels so that everyone has an option – from high activity levels to people who just go for an occasional stroll. Those who walk long distances in a day need a hoe that offers more support, as their regular daily activity is more likely to put the muscles of the foot under strain of fatigue. Extra cushioning is greatly advisable for circumstances like these, while overall foot support is a global must.
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Running is a completely different way of moving, and as such, needs its own set of requirements to be met.
Running causes a greater impact on the joints, and as such, necessitates more padding to cushion the impact on the joints.
In running, the bulk of the cushioning can generally be found over the heel, as this area takes the greatest impact. Running shoes are also lighter, as it makes no sense to have a heavy shoe that impedes speed, for a sport that requires just that.
Disclosure: This is a collaborative post.