What Is the Difference Between Running & Training Athletic Shoes?

For an active person, a well-fitting pair of athletic shoes can go a long way toward performance. Looking for shoes at a store, however, can be like entering an aisle full of shampoo with too many options. Two of the top-selling types of athletic shoes are running and training.

  1. Fit

    • A running shoe is normally very flexible and can feel tighter in the toe area, while a training shoe is more firm with a wider base.

    Purpose

    • A running shoe is designed for forward motion and has thicker heals and soles to help people who are running or jogging to propel forward. The training shoe, on the other hand, is designed to multi-task.

    Support

    • Running shoes provide support for runners or joggers with shock absorption on impact to prevent injuries. Training shoes support for running and while while participating in other sports and activities.

    Help

    • Do not hesitate to ask a sales person for help at the shoe store. They provide insight on the many different shoes available. For example, fitness experts say if you plan taking part in the same activity three times or more a week, get the shoe for that specific sport.

    Fun Fact

    • The word sneaker was first used in 1875 and referred to a croquet shoe worn in England but developed in the United States.