MD Podiatrist Recommends Different Shoes for Walking and Running

Are running shoes good for walking? “Both running and walking are forward motions,” says Dan Michaels, DPM. “For both activities you need cushion and shock absorption in the shoes.” With similar movements, improper footwear in either activity, Dr. Michaels reminds us, can eventually lead to similar foot problems – sprains, strains, stress fractures, tendonitis, and plantar fasciitis.
 

“Walking versus running have different gaits. Therefore, wear patterns will form on your sneakers at very different rates. So it’s really best not to use the same pair of shoes for the two different activities,” according to Dr. Michaels. “In my opinion, having two separate pairs – one dedicated to running and one to walking – is a better idea,” he says.