Items filtered by date: August 2025

Walking shoes and running shoes are designed with different purposes in mind. Walking shoes typically offer firmer soles, greater arch support, and a focus on heel-to-toe movement. Running shoes, on the other hand, provide more cushioning, flexibility, and shock absorption to handle the higher impact of running. Wearing the wrong type of shoe can lead to discomfort or injury, over time. A podiatrist can assess your gait, foot structure, and activity level to help you select the most appropriate footwear. If you experience foot pain or need guidance on proper shoes for walking or running, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on what type of shoes to wear for your desired activity. 

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Charles Oehrlein, DPM from Hoover Foot Care. Our practitioner can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hoover, Oneonta, and Munford, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.