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Running shoes can be an excellent choice for walking, offering the cushioning, support and comfort you need to keep moving. Here’s what to look for - and how an independent running retailer can help you find the right pair for your feet.
Are running shoes good for walking?
Yes, running shoes can be a great option for walking, whether you’re commuting, spending long hours on your feet at work, or simply wearing them day to day.
A lot of customers visit our shops to pick running shoes for work, including NHS staff, teachers and posties. The cushioning and support that running shoes are designed to provide for a high-impact activity like running can also translate into excellent comfort when walking or spending long periods on your feet.
However, not all running shoes will be suitable for walking. Different shoe geometries, types of running shoes and midsole foams can make some models more comfortable and practical for walking than others. These factors can affect not only comfort and support, but also how well the shoes stand up to regular use and how durable they are over time.
What to look for in a running shoe for walking
When choosing a running shoe for walking, consider:
- For urban walking: If you’re mainly walking on pavements, roads or other hard, even surfaces, look for a road running shoe designed for daily miles. These tend to offer a comfortable, forgiving ride and a good balance of cushioning, support and durability for spending long periods on your feet.
- For mixed terrain: If your walks take you from pavements onto parks, towpaths, gravel paths or light trails, a door-to-trail shoe can be a versatile option. These generally combine the cushioning of a road shoe with added grip and structure for less predictable surfaces.
- For regular trail walking: If you’re primarily walking on trails or more uneven ground, a trail running shoe is worth considering. The deeper outsole lugs provide more grip, while features such as a more protective upper and reinforced construction can help on rougher terrain.
- Fit and foot shape: Whatever the terrain, the right fit is essential. Consider the width and shape of the shoe as well as how it feels on your foot. As a general guide, we recommend choosing your running shoe at least half a size larger than your regular shoe size, although you may need to go up further depending on the fit and sizing of your usual shoes.
- Don’t necessarily choose the highest cushioning: More cushioning isn't necessarily better. The ideal balance of cushioning and support will vary from person to person.
- Consider durability: If you're using your shoes every day for work or commuting, choose a shoe designed to withstand regular mileage. If you’re a runner, we recommend having two pairs - one for running and one for walking - to help reduce wear on your running shoes.
What to avoid
Race-day and highly specialised session shoes are designed primarily for speed and efficiency. They often use very responsive foams, lightweight uppers and more aggressive geometries to help you run faster. While these features can be beneficial when running, they don't necessarily make them the most comfortable, practical or cost-effective option for walking.
Best running shoes for walking: some of our recommendations
At Run4It, we categorise running shoes in three experiences: Float Experience, Enhanced Energy Experience, and Connected Experience. Most suitable options will come from the Float Experience and Connected Experience categories.
Here's a non-exhaustive selection of models we'd recommend for walking:
