It is not about confronting, far from it, because, in most of the occasions, they can be complementary; but when it comes to choosing sports shoes, we must be clear about the main differences between Running shoes and walking shoes. So this post is about that, and we try to clarify concepts.
We start from a basic premise such as the fact that the most suitable material will be the one that is able to adapt to our athlete profile, and also to the physical activity that we develop: either running or walking. By this we mean that each specific model has its own characteristics, and that a walking shoe will rarely be suitable for running - they tend to be more rigid and compact, and also somewhat less flexible. However, a running shoe can be adapted to your needs when you have in mind to enjoy a good walk.
Whether you opt for one option or another, the key is to know and analyze the qualities of each model so that they fit what you are looking for.
Main differences between running shoes and walking shoes
If you are a loyal follower of Runnea you don't need to tell you that the segment of Running shoes is a whole universe in which the most innovative technologies and the most cutting-edge materials are intermingled. Of course, there is a lot of good choice, and there are many filters to apply: fast running vs. running at slower paces; short or long distances; level of cushioning and stability; neutral, pronator or supinator; type of drop, etc.
On the contrary, and as a general rule, walking shoes have always based their designs and constructions on prioritizing comfort and softness over performance. Hence the technological component, although it is applied, is not as decisive as it is in running models. Does this mean that Running shoes are better than walking shoes? No, it simply means that some are optimized for one activity, while others are optimized for another type of exercise, even if they are related.
Something common in the purchase of both models is that they must meet very specific characteristics, such as being comfortable, comfortable, lightweight, and also flexible shoes that adapt to the natural movements of the foot.
The key points in the choice of a running or walking shoe
All these guidelines lead us to focus on the strategic points of the shoe. That is, we need to talk about cushioning, stability and flexibility.
- Cushioning level
There is scientific evidence in this regard, and it has been proven that runners must withstand greater impact forces in their strides, up to 3 times their own body weight. This is notably reduced in the case of walkers (less than 2 times). Thus, the runner needs optimal levels of cushioning to better absorb impacts both in the heel area and in the front part of the shoe, especially when landing with the heel or with the metatarsals.
So the winning combination is to choose running or walking shoes with good cushioning, but also with the level of lightness that allows you to move without restrictions.
Top cushioned shoes, recommended by Runnea
ASICS Gel Nimbus 24
The ASICS Gel Nimbus 24 stands out as a very reliable, rolling and durable running shoe for virtually any type of runner profile. Especially for those who are looking for a model with maximum cushioning and comfort to cover large volumes of kilometers in their weekly training sessions.
- Type of footprint: neutral and pronator.
- Drop: 10 mm.
- Weight: 309 grams.
- Use: daily training.
- Distances: up to marathon.
- Featured Technologies: FlyteFoam Blast +, Trusstic, FluidFit
- RRP: 180
New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v12
The New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v12 can become your best option for running -and don't discard it either for walking- on asphalt, and with very particular characteristics such as: great cushioning, high level of comfort and optimal energy return in each stride.
- Type of stride: neutral.
- Drop: 8 mm.
- Weight: 265 grams.
- Use: daily training.
- Distances: up to marathon.
- Featured Technologies: Fresh Foam X, Hypoknit
- RRP: 180
adidas Ultraboost 22
To talk about the adidas Ultraboost 22 Running shoes shoes is to talk about a guarantee of cushioning and protection to complete the longest distances on asphalt. An icon in the running world that evolves in order to meet the demands of male and female runners. This adidas Ultraboost 22 is a turning point in the long-lived and emblematic saga of the German firm and presents a version exclusively designed to meet the needs of female runners.
- Typeof tread: neutral.
- Drop : 10 mm.
- Weight: 333 grams.
- Use: daily training.
- Distances: up to marathon.
- Featured technologies: Boost, LEP, PrimeKnit +
- RRP: 190€.
Nike Vomero 16
The Nike Vomero 16 is the model with maximum cushioning and reactivity of the American brand. Without making much noise, this best-seller for runners over 75 kilos arrives for running at easy paces and all kinds of distances. The 16th edition of these Vomero introduces small nuances that improve those details that did not leave the Vomero community completely satisfied.
- Type of footstep: neutral, supinator.
- Drop: 10 mm.
- Weight: 310 grams.
- Use: daily training.
- Distances: up to marathon.
- Featured Technologies: Zoom X, Air Zoom
- RRP: 150€.
- Stability level
We can say that the stability of a shoe is directly related to the heel drop, or in other words the drop. There is a lot of discrepancy around the issue of drop, and estimating what is the recommended heel height. In this regard, our head podiatrist, Toni Fernández Sierra, says that more important than the drop "is knowing our weak points in running technique, as well as knowing how our body works and the type of injuries we tend to suffer". Especially in habitual runners. We recommend reading the post What drop should I use if I am a runner who tends to heel over heel?
So the difference in height from heel to toe must not only be determined by comfort, but also by the stability they provide at the rear of the shoe. As a general rule, and depending on the running technique used, runners should have larger drops than those used by walkers.
Maximum stability shoes, recommended by Runnea
ASICS Gel Kayano 28
The Gel Kayano 28 are the top of the range in cushioning for pronator runners from ASICS. This latest interaction reflects the innovative character defended by the Japanese company and incorporates the latest technology with the aim of pursuing a more fluid, comfortable and stable stride. A model that continues to be an undisputed reference for runners of medium-high and high weights looking to complete long distances on asphalt; from the half marathon onwards.
- Type of tread: pronator.
- Drop: 10 mm.
- Weight: 308 grams.
- Use: daily training.
- Distances: up to marathon.
- Technologies highlighted: FF BLAST?, DYNAMIC DUOMAX?, TRUSSTIC?, 3D SPACE CONSTRUCTION?.
- RRP: 180€.
Mizuno Wave Inspire 18
The expected Mizuno Wave Inspire 18, are the Running shoes for runners pronators par excellence. A new model that provides the necessary support and stability, as is typical in this legendary saga. Designed to run distances between 10K and marathon, these multipurpose shoes are excellent for both training on asphalt and racing.
- Tread pattern: pronator.
- Drop: 12 mm.
- Weight: 295 grams.
- Use: daily training.
- Distances: up to marathon.
- Technologies highlighted: Mizuno ENERZY, SmoothRide, Double Fan-shaped Wave, U4ic, AIRmesh.
- RRP: 150€.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22
These renewed Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 present new features of great depth, but without breaking with everything seen in previous editions. This means that the main keys of this model remain the same: top of the range in stability and with softer and more comfortable cushioning, while offering a more dynamic response and greater energy return.
- Footstep type: pronator.
- Drop: 12 mm.
- Weight: 295 grams.
- Use: daily training.
- Distances: up to marathon.
- Technologies highlighted: DNA Loft, GuideRail.
- RRP: 150€.
- Level of flexibility
They are not opposing terms, but as far as stability and flexibility are concerned, the construction and structure of supportive shoes in the midfoot area tend to be less flexible, due to those reinforcement elements to correct excess overpronation. So all runners and walkers who need stability control are forced to sacrifice some flexibility.
The practical trick to know if the model we want is flexible or not is to bend the forefoot and arch. It's a bit rudimentary, but it's a first clue as to whether the shoe gives you the flexible platform you need. Here, watch out, walkers, because there are walking shoes that are sold as really flexible, and the truth is that the degree of flexibility leaves a lot to be desired.
Flexible shoes, recommended by Runnea
Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 3
These Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 3 maintain the most positive, and best performing aspects from its previous version. But it also brings with it a series of important improvements to not stop running, and enjoy every running session no matter the distance to run with this top of the range in cushioning for runners with neutral footstep, and even for mild pronators.
- Type of footprint: neutral.
- Drop: -.
- Weight: -.
- Use: daily training,
- Distances: up to half marathon.
- Technologies highlighted: React, Flyknit, Flywire.
- RRP: 110€.
New Balance FuelCell Propel v3
The New Balance FuelCell Propel v3 is a shoe optimized for daily use that has the most advanced features of the firm to make them a perfect ally for competition. With an aesthetic that already pointed out ways to the arrival of its previous version, these Propel v3 maintain some of its most outstanding sections and incorporates certain innovations in the upper area to offer a more comfortable silhouette , lightweight and above all, of great propulsion.
- Type of footprint: neutral.
- Drop: 6 mm.
- Weight: 259 grams.
- Use: daily training, competition.
- Distances: up to half marathon.
- Technologies highlighted: FuelCell, NDurance.
- RRP: 110€.
Skechers GOrun Razor Excess 2
The Skechers GOrun Razor Excess 2 is one of the most outstanding launches of the season by Skechers. A silhouette that consolidates as one of the fastest bets for runners looking to improve their records in all kinds of distances on asphalt. In addition, it is aimed at runners with a refined running technique that support with the mid-forefoot area.
- Type of footprint: neutral.
- Drop: 4 mm.
- Weight: 223 grams.
- Use: daily training, competition.
- Distances: up to marathon.
- Technologies highlighted: HYPER BURST, H-Plate, HyperArc.
- RRP: 155€.
In short, and as the message that should be clear is none other than that of each runner or walker has its own particularities and needs, so you should look for that running and walking shoe that covers them, as far as possible. Remember that the model must have a good fit and a good adaptation to the foot, favoring our natural movements, and that impulse that takes us forward, to continue ... running or walking!
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