Walking Shoes and Running Shoes: Not the Same!

With spring right around the corner, thoughts are turning to enjoying outdoor activities like walking and running. But do you realize that you need different shoes for each? In today’s post, Dr. Hubert Lee at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA, shares what to look for in each type of shoe.

Both walking and running offer numerous health benefits. Running helps strengthen bones and muscles, and burns calories, to improve your heart and maintain a healthy weight.

And while you move more slowly when walking, the activity provides its own health benefits. Walking can help lessen stress and provide a better night’s sleep while improving overall fitness and cardiovascular health.

Whether you run or walk, you need to wear the right type of shoe to ensure you have an effective and productive work out without any muscle pain or strain. The shoes you choose make the difference.

Fancy Footwork

Shoes are divided into walking and running categories because the movement for each action is different.

Walkers and runners utilize a different foot strike when they move. This is because, at some point, both of a runner’s feet are off the ground, while a walker always has one foot on the ground.

About Running Shoes

Your running shoe should possess at least a few of these characteristics:

• A breathable and durable upper part of the shoe, with some mesh, if possible
• Lightweight construction 
• Reflective material (if you run in the dark)
• A stable heel that holds your foot fits securely
• Removable insoles for easy replacement and cleaning
• Solid traction that’s good on all types of terrain
• Plenty of durability and cushioning for running long distances.

About Walking Shoes

Flexibility, comfort, and stability are the trifecta of any good walking shoe. They should also:

• Provide an even motion when walking, catering to the heel-to-toe movement
• Feel secure and balance.
• Have enough weight to maintain stability.
• Hold your foot in place without being too tight.

To get the best fit, be sure to measure both feet whenever you purchase new shoes. If there’s a size difference, accommodate your larger foot, and never assume that your feet are the same size as when you last bought a pair of shoes.

Running or walking to get your daily exercise is your choice, but being educated regarding the properties of the right shoe can make all the difference.

If you need help choosing the right running or walking shoes, or are having any issues with your feet, contact Dr. Hubert Lee and his team at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA. You can schedule an appointment online or by calling us at 425-455-0936.