Feet bear the weight of the body all day long. In fact, any harm to your feet will alter the symmetry of your entire body. Therefore it's important that your feet are maintained in a condition that befits their purpose in any moment. While many shoes look alike, all are not equally suited for all tasks. The differences between running shoes and walking shoes are many, and easily missed at first glance. However, by knowing the intentions for which each type is designed, you can perform either activity safely and comfortably.
Sole Thickness
One area where running and walking shoes differ significantly is in the sole. The underside of each type of shoe is specifically fashioned to match its purpose. Because your feet contact the ground with a heavier impact when running, shoes designed for the task posses a thicker sole. Walking shoes, however, will usually have a thinner bottom with grooves etched in to curb the possibility of slippage that may result while your foot presses into an arch during casual motion.
Ergonomics
The internal scheme of any shoe can either support or diminish, not only the health of your feet, but also that of your legs, hips, back and neck. A shoe must be capable of effectively bearing whatever course the foot travels naturally during usage. For instance, running shoes are manufactured differently for distance, sprinting or trail running, as the load assigned to each pair would also vary. Additionally, the infrastructural design of many running shoes are angled in a way that actually propels the weight of one's body forward during motion. Weight, energy and movement are all considered carefully to design shoes that promote performance and safety.
Flexibility
Walking shoes are typically constructed of more pliable material than running shoes. Because walking requires a casual roll of the foot from heel to toe, it is best done in a shoe that will bend easily enough to support the task. On the other hand, material used to construct running shoes is more unyielding, in order to restrain the foot during motion. Too much movement within the shoe could easily lead to the development of painful blisters. For this reason, most walking shoes are topped with a light, breathable material, while shoes designed for running are made of a firm vinyl or leather-like substance.
Foot Type
Knowing the unique structure of your own gait is important to find an appropriate set of shoes. Some people walk or run with a level stride, but many have feet that turn either inward or outward or apply undue force to a particular area of the foot. For this reason, some shoes are designed specifically to runners and walkers with abnormal strides. You can examine the sole of a worn-out pair of shoes to determine the rhythm of your step. Any area where you apply more weight will be worn through in a greater degree than the others. A professional shoe fitter can then steer you toward a shoe that cooperates with your natural march.
Style
Shoes come in many fashions and styles. However, as a rule running shoes are offered in a more diverse selection. Growing enthusiasm for the sport has encouraged competition among manufacturers. Walking shoes are typically offered in mild tones, with little dazzle in the design itself. Even so, shoemakers are continuously expanding the options available and producing shoes that are not only practical, but cosmetically attractive.
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