Workout Shoes: All the Same?
Women’s Clifton
When it comes to running and working out at the gym, there might be a tendency to wear the same shoes for both activities. But is that the best practice? Are workout shoes all the same? More specifically, are gym shoes and running shoes the same?
Generally speaking, gym shoes and running shoes are not the same. However, you might be wondering: can gym shoes be worn during a run on the treadmill at the gym? Can running shoes be worn while weight lifting?
The answer to these questions might surprise you. So, let’s take a look at how to evaluate shoes when you’re planning to go to the gym and when you’re planning to do a run.
Footwear has a Purpose
Remember that shoes are designed for a specific purpose. Many different types of casual shoes are made to look good rather than to feel good. Those high heels can help you look taller and slimmer, but your feet will likely be hurting after wearing them for too long. Running shoes and gym shoes are typically designed for specific types of workouts, and they usually will help your feet feel good during and after the workout they were designed for.
What Do I Need to Know About Running Shoes?
Running shoes are made for the purpose of giving a runner the best comfort, fit, and feel during a run. Some running shoes are specifically designed to last for long distances, while others are designed to enhance performance for shorter distances. The variety in running shoes speaks to the variety and uniqueness in every person, including their individual foot shape/size and their goals. Some runners like a nice glove-like fit while others like a lot of room for their feet to breathe. Some runners appreciate a lot of cushion while others want to feel more of the ground impact with less cushion. Everyone has different preferences. Thankfully, running shoe brands have a lot of options for runners, enabling them to find the right shoe for them.
What Do I Need to Know About Gym Shoes?
Gym shoes, on the other hand, are generally made for the purpose of giving weight lifters a light, flat surface so that they can stay balanced and have a good amount of connection with the floor. Gym shoes, generally speaking, are not the best shoes to run in on the treadmill because they aren’t designed for the motion of running, but rather they are designed to help keep a person balanced during a gym workout and weight lifting.
Pick Your Shoes Wisely
Can you wear gym shoes and running shoes interchangeably? Our recommendation would be that you don’t use those two types of shoes interchangeably, but to select the appropriate shoes for the workout you’re going to be doing. That means wear gym shoes for a gym workout, and wear running shoes for any running, whether you’re on a treadmill or out on the sidewalk or on a trail.
The first step in finding the right shoes for you:
- GET AN IN PERSON SHOE FITTING – Here’s how you can find the shoes that will best best for you. At St. Pete Running Company, we’ve tailored a one-of-a-kind StrideSmart Shoe Fitting for walkers and runners alike. Our shoe experts take a full body approach to evaluating your gait and stride. And best of all, our in-depth shoe fitting is absolutely free! This evaluation will also help you understand how to properly run, which means avoiding injury as you’re just getting started. We will also have the top running shoe brands in the country for you to get your feet inside to see what shoes will be best for you!
Do you have more questions about running shoes versus gym shoes? We can help! Call or come into the store where our shoe and running experts are ready to provide the high-quality customer service you expect from a Top 50 Running Store in America.
