Is there a difference between a running shoe and a walking shoe? A podiatrist weighs in on how to pick the right shoe for your workout.
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CLEVELAND – With so many workout shoes on the market, it may be hard to know if you’re buying the right one.
So, what should you look for?
“The shoe needs to be comfortable, and it needs to fit well,” explained Joy Rowland, DPM, a podiatrist with Cleveland Clinic. “So often people will buy a shoe because of the color or it’s the latest one on the market. But it’s not the right shoe for you if it doesn’t fit well.”
When looking for a workout shoe, Dr. Rowland said it’s crucial to figure out what you’ll be using them for because shoes are built for different activities.
Running shoes should have good shock absorption in the heel and walking shoes should feel cushioned and stable on your feet.
To find the right fit, Dr. Rowland suggests people wear the sock they typically use while working out and try on the shoe later in the day.
She says your feet swell as the day goes on – especially after exercising, so you want to make sure it still feels comfortable when your feet are more swollen.
Dr. Rowland recommends going to a proper shoe store to get fitted if possible.
“A shoe store can fit you according to the exercise you’re going to be doing,” she said. “They can ensure the shoe’s width, arch height and toe box are all appropriate for your foot type and the exercise you’ll be doing.”
Dr. Rowland added it’s important to see a podiatrist if your feet persistently hurt while working out.
