A boxer wears a particular style of shoe that supports the various tasks he performs in the ring. While boxing shoes work very well for this purpose, they are not exactly suited for outside use. Boxing shoes come in either high or low top and are sold in a variety of colors and schemes. No matter which type you buy, certain overall factors are relevant to their use.
Traction
Boxing shoes give the fighter the right amount of traction he needs to move gracefully in the ring, but wearing the shoes on an outside surface would likely provide a very different experience. The sole of a boxing shoe is thinner than that of conventional footwear. The underside ridges also lack the same depth. This is because the canvas material used to cover the boxing ring automatically grips the shoe. A person wearing boxing shoes outside of the ring would find it easy to slip, especially on slick or wet floors.
Moisture
Boxing shoes are made in both leather-like and fabric materials. The bulk of the fabric shoes are typically constructed from a breathable cloth. This allows a fighter's sweat to continuously evaporate from his foot and lower leg during periods of activity and prevents perspiration from saturating the shoe. While this works well during training and competition, it is not always ideal in other circumstances. Walking through a wet environment with boxing shoes would likely soak your foot to the bone. While the moisture in your shoes would eventually evaporate, the socks underneath could remain wet. This condition could not only be uncomfortable but could also lead to foot odor and bacterial buildup.
Sole Thickness
The sole of a boxing shoe is much thinner than the average pair of kicks. Therefore, the amount of protection provided to the bottom of your foot is greatly reduced. When walking outside of the gym, it's normal to step on small rocks and protrusions. In a pair of boxing shoes, these minor "bumps in the road" would sometimes feel as if they're stabbing straight into your foot. Eventually, this could lead to blistering, bruising and lacerations.
Wear and Tear
Remember, boxing shoes are made from a "softer" cloth than other styles. The common scrapes and scratches, endured through outside walking, would wear down the material very quickly. The fabric of a boxing shoe can easily wear thin, causing holes in heavily contacted areas. These holes will then compromise the structural integrity of your shoes, perhaps reducing the amount of support given your ankles and lower legs.
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