MD Podiatrist Discusses How Women’s and Men’s Running Shoes Differ

There are special considerations women need to take into account when shopping for running shoes, which are often just sized-down versions of men’s shoes. “Women’s shoes are generally wider in the forefoot and toe and narrower towards the heel. Men’s shoes are larger, in general,” explains Daniel Michaels, DPM, a podiatric surgeon.

Because of this, women need running shoes with more shock cushioning. “Women, on average, weigh less than men of comparable height and shoe size. Therefore, the midsole in a woman’s shoe is designed to sustain less impact as the foot strikes the ground,” Dr. Michaels says. “Women’s running shoes usually contain a lighter and softer midsole than the men’s version, too.”