To Wear Running Shoes or To Wear Walking Shoes
Are running shoes the best shoes to wear while walking, or do you need to find specific walking shoes? If you’ve been asking yourself this question, we’re here to help you find the answer.
So, which is it?
You might be surprised to discover that most running shoes are also walking shoes. They are designed for the movements of walkers and runners, and therefore you’re most likely already in a walking shoe if you’re wearing running shoes.
This means that if you’re a walker shopping for walking shoes in a running store like St. Pete Running Company, you’re in the right place!
Will any running shoe work for walkers? Not necessarily. For example, if you deal with any joint issues such as knee or hip pain, we will likely recommend that you don’t walk in a shoe with a low amount of cushioning, but rather that you walk in a higher cushioned shoe. For certain past injuries, we might even recommend some extra support for you when you’re picking out your walking shoes.
There is one important element that everyone needs to know about when searching for walking shoes (or running shoes). When you’re searching for the best pair of walking shoes for you, the first thing you need to do is get a proper shoe fitting.
Why is a proper shoe fitting important?
Your feet, your walking gait, and your shoe preferences are as unique as you are! That’s why it’s so important to have a proper shoe fitting to make sure you’re in the walking shoes that are going to be the best for you.
At St. Pete Running Company, we offer a free and comprehensive fit process called a StrideSmart Shoe Fitting. Because everyone is different, we take a look at things like your goals as a walker or runner (or both), your past injuries (if any), and the preferences you have for the way a walking shoe fits on your foot. When you come in for your shoe fitting, our shoe experts will take you through this process to discover the specific model type that your feet will need (stability versus neutral) and then you’ll get the chance to try on more than one pair to compare and contrast what feels best to you.
Come in to St. Pete Running Company during normal business hours and our expert staff will walk you through this one-of-a-kind shoe fitting.
Do you have more questions about running shoes for walkers? 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.