Can You Wear Running Shoes for Fitness Walking?

Question: Can You Wear Running Shoes for Fitness Walking?

Are running shoes good for fitness walking? Shouldn't you wear walking shoes rather than running shoes for walking?

Answer: Not all running shoes are good for walking, but most shoes you see designated as walking shoes at the average shoe store are worse. Many walking shoe designs are designed for comfort or workplace use rather than fitness walking. They may be inflexible and heavy. Walkers need flex in the forefoot and do not need as much heavy cushioning as is found in comfort shoes or cushioned running shoes.

Running shoes are usually a better bet. Even when comparing fitness walking shoes with running shoes, the running shoe models incorporate more of the latest developments for cushioning, motion control, and support.

What to Look for in Running Shoes for Fitness Walking

1. Flexible You should be able to bend and flex the shoe in the forefoot.

2. Low Heel Some running shoes have higher heels to support runners who land on the ball of the foot.

3. No Flare A true fitness walking shoe has a heel that is undercut, that angles in from the heel to the ground. Walkers land on the heel and do not need a built-up or flared heel. Many running shoes, and especially trail running shoes, have a flared heel for stability for runners who land on the arch or ball of their foot. The best you can look for is little or no flare.

4. Fit To have your foot and gait assessed for whether you need motion control or stability shoes or can wear neutral lightweight trainers, visit the serious running shoe store in your area. The staff there will be able to recommend the best type of shoe for your walking needs.

Walking Shoe Guide
How to choose the right shoes and lists of the top shoes for each category.

Top Picks for Walking Shoes

• Top Picks for Motion Control Shoes
• Top Picks for Stability Shoes
• Top Picks for Cushioned Shoes
• Top Picks for Performance Training Shoes
• Top Picks for Racewalking Shoes