If you’re a high-mileage walker who wants to squeeze as many steps as possible, you need the right type of shoe. However, the search for the most comfortable shoe can be a difficult process. But don’t worry, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll give an insight into how running and tennis shoes work. We’ll also look at whether tennis shoes are good for walking or not. Let’s jump right in.
So, are tennis shoes good for walking? Tennis shoes are not as decent as walking shoes. Walking shoes are well-cushioned to support the heel while tennis shoes provide optimal footing on the court surface. Also, walking shoes offer moderate resistance when you twist to ensure you have the right support to cover the miles. Tennis-specific shoes are flatter and have less heel cushioning for frequent movement all over the court.
Walking shoes address how each person moves and rolls through the steps. What’s more, they are comfortable at the forefront.
In contrast, tennis shoes are specifically designed for the surface you’re playing in. While some shoes tend to solve the problem with cushioning, tennis shoes can be horrible for running.
Now you know that walking shoes have different features that tennis shoes don’t. At this point, you’re probably thinking that was a lot of information to take in.
We encourage you to keep reading this post as we elaborate on the differences in each shoe.
Helpful Features For Walking And Tennis Shoes
Walking shoes are meant to keep your feet happy – comfort is everything.
They should have the right support, cushioning, and breathability.
And if the shoe fits well, you can be sure you won’t get blisters and other kinds of injuries.
Although walking shoes are lightweight, not all are created equal. Be sure to look at the different brands to identify the one that suits you best.
The most important feature to look for is stability – secure and balanced feel. Another important feature is flexibility.
This refers to the degree a shoe gives on the toes for smooth motion. The toe box should be designed in a way that prevents bending or wiggling of toes.
Keep in mind that too much space may cause some discomfort.
If you’re trying tennis shoes for walking, you should pay attention to the midsole. This is the area between the upper cloth and the tread.
The midsole is made uniquely to ensure greater cushioning, flexibility, and support. Another important component is the heel counter.
It holds the back of the heel just below the tendons. Look for a shoe that angles from the heel to the surface. If you land on the ball or arch of the foot, look for pair with a flared heel.
A good walking shoe should comfortably cup the back of the heel to prevent supination or pronation.
Unlike a tennis shoe, the insole contours comfortably on the feet. This reduces the shear forces between the foot and the shoe for better shock absorption.
Tennis shoes should allow for side-to-side running, jumping, sprinting, and more. They are specially designed for different court surfaces and the type of feet.
While tennis and walking shoes may look the same in terms of the overall design, there’s a big difference:
- Tennis shoes have the flexibility but lack the padding a walking shoe is designed for. However, there’s more agile.
- Walking shoes are designed to ensure there’s no drag on the walker’s feet while tennis shoes can be a bit heavier.
While both have lightweight uppers and flexible rubber soles, the cushioning on the forefeet is different.
Tennis shoes have specific details like support, breathability, and technical specifications on body weight. But just like other sneakers, walking shoes don’t have any specifications because they are designed to enhance the athletic ability of the user.
Does this mean you need special shoes for walking? Yes. All brands are different. While the construction of the shoe gives overall flexibility, you need stability and comfort.
At the very least, look for a shoe that incorporates the latest performance technologies. Also, the shoe should allow for natural flexibility to give a bit of breathing room.
To ensure you make the best choice, you should never place fashion before function.
How Should I Choose A Walking Shoe?
Walking shoes come in different shapes and sizes. To ensure you get the perfect fit, you should buy a pair that conforms to the shape of the feet.
Avoid those shoes that are too wide or narrow as they can cause blisters. The arch type also matters.
This refers to the intricate alignment of the ligaments, muscles, and tendons. As you walk, the flexible arch helps to distribute the weight of the body evenly.
If you have high arched feet, look for shoes with soft cushioning for better shock absorption. Those with low-arched /flat feet should buy a pair that help to stabilize the feet.
Finally, if you have neutral -arched feet, you should look for shoes with firm mid-soles and moderate rear-foot stability.
Can Running Shoes Be Used For Walking?
While you can use running shoes to walk, this is not always the case. The truth is that these shoes should be used for their dedicated purpose.
To get a better understanding, you should look for the biometrics of each. Running shoes come with cushioning that protects the feet from the extra pounding while walking shoes offer extra support.
Secondly, running shoes have added material into the cushioning that allows for less flex. Besides, runners work harder than walkers so they need breathable shoes.
Of course, walking shoes have no flares on the soles.
Should Walking Shoes Be The Same Size As Your Regular Shoes?
No. walking shoes should be larger than regular shoes. This is because the toes sweat more, so if your foot is not big enough you could end up with blisters and toenails.
If you find out that your walking shoes are too small to wear, you may want to look for a larger size.
Final Thoughts
While walking is a low workout activity, it offers the same benefits as running. However, the type of shoe you wear can make or break you.
If you’re looking for the best shoe to hit that treadmill, track, or sidewalk, you need a walking shoe.
While you can use a tennis shoe to walk for a limited time, you won’t get the traction, support, and comfort that come with walking shoes.