If you are looking for the perfect pair of athletic shoes, it’s easy to get confused about what to buy with all the choices available on the market today.

While most shoe stores have knowledgeable staff to assist you with your needs, it is beneficial to arm yourself with the tips below before your next shopping trip.

Is There Really a Difference Between Walking Shoes and Running Shoes?

You might think that simply buying a good pair of expensive shoes will allow you to use them for any activity, but that’s not actually true. Because we use our feet differently, our body reacts differently when we participate in different types of exercise, especially running and walking.

Running shoes are made lighter in weight and heavier in cushioning in the heel and toe area. Runners tend to use more energy while running since running is a more intense sport. This causes the feet to get hotter, therefore, most running nike shoes are made of mesh. Mesh allows air to flow more freely while also keeping the shoe lighter in weight.

Walking shoes need to provide good arch support and don’t need to be as light and breathable as running shoes though most nike shoes sold online are both light and breathable.

If your feet have a higher arch, you should choose shoes with more cushioning because having a higher arch causes you to have less natural shock absorption. Those with flat feet should choose walking shoes that offer extra stability since they tend to have less support, which can lead to muscle and joint stress.

Shoes Made for Walking

Walking doesn’t require any fancy gear or equipment. The most important piece of equipment you will need for walking is a good pair of walking shoes.

There are three categories that walking shoes typically fall into:

• Performance shoes are lightweight and are used by people who want a multipurpose shoe that can be used for more vigorous activities
• Cushioned shoes offer greater comfort and cushioning for those who walk long distances
• Stability shoes are for people who would benefit from added motion control which provides extra stability and reduces potential injury

Shoes Made for Running

Great running shoes fall into 3 key categories:

• Road-running shoes are designed for occasional ventures on pavement and surfaces that may have slight irregularities
• Trail-running shoes are designed for off-road adventures amidst rocks, mud, roots, or other obstacles
• Cross-training shoes are designed for gym workouts, cross-training, and other activities with more contact with the ground, and solid surfaces

Pronation and Underpronation

Pronation is the natural movement of your foot as you walk or run. Your foot normally rolls inward to absorb the shock when your foot hits the ground, it helps you push off evenly from the ball of your foot, which is an essential part of your overall gait, and the way you move.

Underpronation is a condition commonly referred to as supination. Underpronation of the foot structure usually causes an abnormally high arch with little flexibility when standing. The heel often pushes outward which places more weight on the outer edge of the foot. Adequate footwear can often help with conditions related to flat feet and high arches.

A Good Fit

Here are some helpful guidelines to ensure you get the best fit possible:

• Buy shoes by how they feel on your feet, not just by the size of the shoe. Many brands and types of shoes fit us differently
• The best time to go shoe shopping is at the end of the day when your feet are largest
• When trying on shoes, make sure the ball of your foot fits comfortably into the widest part of the shoe
• Good fitting shoes should not ride up and down on your heel when you walk. Your heel should fit comfortably in the shoe with minimal slipping
• Always take the time to walk around the store in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right

Thanks for reading,