The biomechanics of your foot vary greatly depending on the activity you are involved in. That’s why we have different sports shoes for basketball, football, running, cross-training, etc. For example, when you walk, your foot usually hits the ground at your heel. In contrast, when you run, your foot hits the ground approximately near your midfoot. Since gaits vary, a dedicated category of shoes has been created for this purpose – walking shoes for men.
Some differences between walking and running shoes may not have much of an impact on running. For example, running shoes are lighter and offer a wider range of motion control than walking shoes. However, some differences may play a big factor in you choosing a shoe dedicated to this activity. Running shoes have a strong sole and a strong heel, which affects the way your foot hits the ground if you wear them while walking. This can cause pain in your feet and legs, especially when done for a long period of time.
Having the right pair of running shoes for men will help you avoid injuries and foot ailments like Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis. When buying any footwear, you should not compromise on comfort and foot health.
4 Factors to Consider When Buying Walking Shoes for Men
Now that you understand why you can’t run in just any shoe, let’s see what factors are important when you buy running shoes for men:
Suitable
No matter how obvious it sounds, we still need to highlight how important the fit of your shoes is. Not style, not reviews, not trends, but fit! Your wake shoes should fit perfectly (not too loose or too tight) when you try them on after purchasing. There is no need to give them time to take a break. Comfortable shoes for men will protect your feet from injured nails, heel ulcers and other foot problems.
Flexibility
Your walking shoes should be flexible in the right places. Make sure they are bent to the point where your foot turns out, and you lift yourself up with your back foot. You can try bending the sole to see where it bends. Don’t buy shoes for men that look too tight. But you also don’t need a pair that folds in half as it won’t give you enough support.
padded
Typically, you can classify running shoes into different cushioning levels, namely barefoot, minimum, medium, and maximum. Depending on your foot type, pronation, personal preference and if your foot condition is fine, you may need a specific type of cushioning. Walking is a comparatively low-stress activity, so ideally you won’t need heavy padding. If you run on trails or uneven surfaces, you may need medium or sometimes heavy cushioning. It is best to have cushioning on the heel and ball of the foot. Consider shoes that have gel, foam, or air cushioning insoles to help you move as you walk.
Stability
The shoes you buy should provide you with a minimum level of stability. You should hold the heel of the shoe and tilt its toes upward to see if it turns on the ball of the foot. Then, hold and twist the toe and heel to see if there is moderate resistance. A good pair of running shoes for men should meet both of these criteria to provide you with adequate stability.
conclusion
The shoes you wear during any physical activity impacts the health of your feet in the long run. It’s almost impossible for anyone not to spend some part of their day walking, whether it’s grocery shopping, taking a walk in the park, or walking their dog around the block. As simple as it may seem, walking also requires shoes that provide better movement and protect your feet from injuries or foot conditions. So, when out for a walk, especially for long distances, wear a solid pair of walking shoes for men. Check their fit, flexibility, cushioning and stability before making a final decision. If you’re going to incorporate this healthy habit into your daily routine, make sure you do it right!