Tech & Gear

Everywhere you look, someone is raving about walking on an under-desk treadmill or is marathon training. The hype is real, and all you need is a good pair of shoes. However, choosing the right option can be a tedious task.Not all shoes on the market are a one-size-fits-all for everyone when racking up kilometres. Some styles should only be used for performance, while many running and walking kicks can spill into lifestyle wear for their incredible comfort, fit, durability and (our favourite reason) gorpcore vibe. But, of course, each shoe is unique and can serve a different purpose. Before getting technical, step one is making sure your footwear suits your activity and intensity, which begs the question: Are walking shoes and running shoes able to sustain the same impact and movement?“A shoe designed for running often has more cushion because the impact forces from running are much greater than the impact forces from walking,” says Milica McDowell. “This isn’t necessary for walking and reduces your feel of the ground, which is problematic for those with any balance issues or previous falls.”Having the proper shoes is important to help prevent injury. To help you make a decision, we enlisted the help of physical therapists and applied our experience as longtime runners and power walkers to examine if running shoes are good for walking. Here’s what you need to know.Is it okay to wear running shoes for walking?Running shoes can be appropriate for walking, but with a few caveats: If they’re not designed for racing, for trails, or have carbon fiber plates wedged in the sole (this provides massive bounce and speed during runs). “Many times they have a very tight fit for higher performance, a narrow toe box, or are highly supported in the arch, which are features a lifestyle walker does not need,” says McDowell.Many of today’s models are designed with a rockered sole, which is meant to propel you forward. It’s only essential for trying to gain speed, and McDowell agrees “due to the slower cadence and pace of walking and the different contact of the two patterns.” For context, cadence is how many steps you take per minute, while pace is how fast you’re going per kilometre.The maximum cushioning of most running shoes can also be problematic for walkers because it can lead to instability. As Lalitha McSorley, a physiotherapist notes, the “shoe may not support the natural heel-to-toe stride of walking.”As much as I like to reserve my running shoes for training, I do have a few on hand that I strictly use for walking because I love how they feel on my feet. Many models offer adequate support and cushioning that mimics a cradling sensation, which is beneficial when walking high mileage. When seeking a walking shoe, McDowell recommends these four features: a wide toe box, a thin and flexible sole, a low(er) cushion and less stack height, which can all be found in running shoes depending on the model.Is it okay to use walking shoes for running?Walking shoes are generally not ideal for running, given their lack of cushioning. Unlike running shoes, they’re not designed to spare your joints from the impact of pounding pavement. As someone who has had multiple knee and hip injuries from running, I advise against it.“I often tell my patients that running is really high impact – think of the force of your entire body weight coming through your feet when you jump. Now add that every time your foot strikes the ground when you are running,” says McSorley.”This is why running shoes often have extra cushioning in the heel and a more flexible toe box.” Specifically, maximum cushioned shoes are super popular among runners, such as the Hoka Bondi 9. As for flexibility, both walking and running shoes should have at least some for added comfort.READ MORE: 6 Trainer Trends Set To Take Over In 2025 Is there a difference between a running shoe and a walking shoe?While some running shoes can double as walking shoes with a few exceptions, cushioning, heel-to-toe drop, stack height, flexibility and arch support are all key differences that are important when considering the best shoe for you.CushioningGenerally speaking, running shoes are high-cushioned to absorb impact and reduce strain when striking the ground while walking shoes should have less to provide more ground feel for increased stability. The cushioning types in walking and running shoes are typically the same, it’s just the amount that differs. EVA foam is super common and is extremely light, durable and plush for proper shock absorption.Heel-To-Toe DropThe heel-to-toe drop is the difference in cushion height between the heel and forefoot. For runners who land with their heels first, they would benefit from a higher drop (10 to 12 millimetres). Specifically for running, lower drops cause more impact on the ankles, while higher drops put more stress on the knees and hips. To distribute impact evenly, five to six millimetres is the sweet spot for mid-foot strikers. A drop between four to eight millimetres is optimal for walking depending on the support needed and your foot strike.Stack HeightStack height means the amount of foam or material between your feet and the ground. For a walking shoe, there should be less stack height in the heel and even cushioning throughout to prevent instability – aim for at least 30 millimeters to absorb impact. For running, it largely depends on your needs. Many shoes start as low as 20 millimetres, while maximum cushioned styles can reach up to 50.READ MORE: How Often To Replace Walking Shoes, According To DoctorsFlexibilityBoth running and walking shoes should have flexibility, but the amount is a personal preference and depends on needs specific to your feet. For example, those with flat feet would benefit from a stiffer, less flexible shoe for added stability when running and walking. A stiffer shoe is also popular for racing or speed training given its responsiveness, but we prefer a balance of flexibility and firmness to maintain comfort, such as the On Cloudmonster 2. Pay attention to your running gait when wearing both shoes to find what works best for your feet.Arch Support“Walking shoes are typically designed to be more rigid in the arch [firm] and offer better heel-to-toe support, which can help improve proper walking posture and reduce stress on your knees, hips and lower back,” says McSorley.As for running shoes, it greatly depends on your feet and running gait. For example, those who overpronate (have collapsing arches) benefit from firm support for stability, while those with neutral gaits or underpronators benefit from more cushioning in the arch.Overall, it’s important to determine your arch type (flat, medium and high) before choosing a walking or running shoe. An easy way to do this is by looking at your arch from the side to see how inverted it is. Another simple test is to dip your foot in water and step onto a piece of paper. If you see your entire foot, then you have flat feet. A high arch will barely be visible, while a normal arch will show half your foot.Does walking break in running shoes?Experienced runners often employ a strategy to break in new running shoes. Before taking new running shoes for a spin, wear them around the house. This allows you to assess if the fit is optimal to avoid blisters – a runner’s worst nightmare. For individuals with specific foot conditions, like bunions, this initial wear test is crucial for determining if the shoe’s width and fabric are suitable.  When beginning to run in a new pair, it’s advisable to start with shorter distances to allow the shoes to mold to the feet and minimise the risk of injury.READ MORE: Hettie’s Story Proves It’s Never Too Late To Start MovingWhat are our favourite walking and running shoes?Our editors have been testing the best walking and running shoes for years, so we have some stellar recommendations based on hundreds of kilometres and steps logged. Plus, a few new ones on the market to check out:Everyday Walking Shoe

Hoka Mach 6

All-Rounder Running Shoe

On Cloudeclipse

Wide Running Shoes

Fresh Foam X 1080 v14

Long-Distance Running Shoes

Brooks Glycerin GTS 22

Stability Running Shoes

PUMA ForeverRun NITRO™ 2

Arch Support Walking Shoe

HOKA Clifton 9

Meet The ExpertsThis article by Nicolette Accardi was originally published on Women’s Health US – additional reporting and products added by the Women’s Health SA team.  More