Investing in a higher-quality pair of running shoes will help you run more comfortably and lower your chance of injury. Runners must still choose the correct type of running shoe for their running style and their physical requirements as a runner.
So, do decent running shoes make a difference, or are shoe companies simply exaggerating the need for running shoes to get you to buy theirs?
It’s not as black and white as you might believe, as with many things in life. In this article, we will find out the answers you are looking for, so you can decide whether running shoes make much difference.
The Advantages Of Using Running Shoes
Running shoes can make a difference when it comes to performance. A good pair of running shoes can help prevent injuries and provide comfort. But some people spend too much money on running shoes.
Stability
Running shoes help us run as long as possible without getting injured. We can use them even if we’re not professional runners.
Our foot shape may vary but running shoes make sure we run safely and effectively. To help with stability, running shoes should be made out of soft material.
Running shoes with thicker foam are generally heavier and less flexible. However, if you’re overweight, then you may want to consider a shoe with a thicker layer of foam.
Cushioning
Running shoes usually have more cushioning than normal footwear. This is because when you run, your foot exerts more force on the ground. So, the only way to reduce this force is by having extra padding. Cheap running shoes tend to be made of softer foam.
These might be suitable if you have mild pronation problems. But if you have moderate or severe pronation (rotation of medial bones) issues, you should consider buying more stable running shoes. These use thicker denser material.
Runners should choose shoes based on comfort levels. Too much cushioning can lead to injuries.
App Integration
Smart shoes should be used to improve workout routines. Motion sensors can be added to phones to track steps and calories burned. Shoes should be connected to phones and computers to provide fitness data.
The Gemini 2 boots have built-in GPS technology that helps runners monitor their distance, pace, speed, and more. This allows you to see how far you’ve run, how fast you’re going, and how many calories you have burned.
Fewer Injuries
Running shoes are very important for preventing injuries. They help reduce the risk of injuries by providing cushioning and proper support. Most runners use running shoes because they are comfortable and easy to wear.
Good quality running shoes should protect runners’ feet and ankles from injury. A runner should choose shoes based on how much support he or she needs.
Therefore, he or she should avoid shoes that do not provide enough support as this will typically lead to some sort of injury.
Heel Height And Flare
Running shoes are designed with a higher heel than walking shoes. This is because runners need to change their running style based on the terrain, and speed. Some runners land on their forefoot while others land on their rear foot too.
Most running shoes come in various heel to toe drop options. Pick the shoe that feels more comfortable to you. Heels are used to protect the foot from injury. Heel flare helps distribute pressure evenly over the entire sole of the foot and running shoes are designed specifically for this.
High heels cause problems because they put too much weight on the ball of the foot. This puts more stress on the muscles and ligaments of the ankle.
Is It Bad To Run In Non-Running Shoes?
Running shoes are an important part of running. Some people prefer minimalist shoes while others prefer traditional running shoes.
Running in flat soles may cause injury. Injuries are not necessarily caused by running, but by bad biomechanics and/or underlying health conditions.
Simply put, running shoes are very important for runners. Different types of running shoes are designed for specific feet types and running gaits.
Orthotics are used to improve biomechanics and prevent injuries. Strengthening and conditioning your muscles in your legs and core region is also essential for healthy biomechanics and to limit the risk of any injuries.
Are Running Shoes Good For Walking?
Wearing heavy shoes when you walk may slow you down. Walking shoes should be lighter and designed specifically for walking. Unsurprisingly, running shoes are better suited for running.
While it won’t make much difference, you shouldn’t really use the same pair of walking shoes as your running shoes.
This is especially true if you have specialized shoes for road running. As this is the most popular form of running, many people probably walk around in their running shoes, but it could cause some damage to their ankles over a long period.
Of course, there are other forms of running that use different types of running shoes. If you want to get fit, then trail running is great, but the terrain can alter drastically. Therefore, trail running shoes may not be best for tarmac walking.
Running on the beach is also an excellent option, but the softness of the sand can come with certain risks. This is why you should wear specific shoes for different terrains.
You should wear motion control running shoes for any kind of running. Neutral running shoes will be comfortable for both road and trail running.
Remember, different levels of cushion and heel drop address different issues and injuries. So, do your research and consider what type of running you do most before deciding on a pair of running shoes.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, it’s all about finding the perfect running shoe for your stride and realizing that your health is primarily determined by your form, not your equipment.
Look for a shoe that fits and feels good, and works with your running style, rather than a shoe with gimmicky marketing features (injection foams, plastic arches, fancy liners and braces, etc.).
For the first year, I wallowed in my feelings and gained 50 pounds as a result. The next year, with the help of a professional or two, I began working on myself and seeing changes.
Surprisingly enough, I found running to be my main source of comfort in such a trying time. I began running once a day for five minutes, working up to 10, then 20, 30, 40 - until I was running for an hour each morning.
Running started my day off right and on the days where I ran, I found that I was more likely to excel in work and have a better day mentally.
So, that is why I have created Run In The Sun. I want to make your running journey as easy as possible so that you can feel these benefits too. I promise you, it will be so worth it!
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