The age-old question of what type of shoes to wear for walking, especially fitness walking, continues. While runners have different needs compared to fitness walkers, and some running shoes would not be appropriate for walking, some of the shoes designed for walking can be even worse. Some walking shoes are made more for comfort and work purposes than walking for fitness. These types of shoes are highly cushioned to relieve stress from standing and may be heavy and not as flexible as needed. Running shoes tend to have more of the latest developments in technology with respect to cushioning for fitness walking, as well as motion control, and support. When choosing a running shoe for fitness walking, running stores can help you determine if you need motion control shoes, stability shoes, or neutral, lightweight trainers. The shoe you get should bend some and be able to be flexed at the forefoot. Look for shoes of 10 mm or less of a heel-to-toe drop. Make sure the heel of the shoe is undercut and angles in from the heel to the ground rather than being flared. Most importantly, make sure they feel comfortable. For additional help picking the right shoe for your particular foot and the needs of fitness walking or any other exercise you plan to embark upon, visit a podiatrist, who can examine your feet and gait and make specialized recommendations.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with the foot specialists from Spartan Podiatry. Our doctors can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Battle Creek, and Marshall, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.