If you are planning on walking regularly for more than a half hour at a time, be sure to pick out a pair of walking shoes that have these three essential structural features for optimal cushioning and support. 1) Flexibility: choose a walking shoe that is bendable, allowing for your foot to flex during the rolling heel-to-toe walking stride. 2) Lightweight: a lighter shoe will make it easy to stay spry and energetic on long walks. 3) An Undercut Heel: Avoid flared or big heels that may interfere with the heel-to-toe walking stride and opt for an undercut or straight heel instead. For more information and recommendations on walking shoes that are right for your individual foot and walking style, consult with a podiatrist.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Dr. Thomas Tran from Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor 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 office located in Frisco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.