The benefits of using a treadmill are undeniable for even the most avid outdoor walker. Treadmill walking allows you to adjust the incline and continuously record calories burned, distance, and speed while avoiding wind, rain, and extreme temperatures.
These machines are designed to absorb shock, but you still want to wear comfortable trainers to keep your joints healthy. However, with countless brands and models, finding the best treadmill walking shoes is no walk in the park (pun intended).
Fortunately, you can skip the exhaustive search and try one of these six best shoes for treadmill walking, according to physical therapists and trainers.
Treadmill walking is more similar to road walking than trail walking because the surface is smoother than a road, but there are no puddles, curves, or other obstacles. This means that having the right shoes is essential to be able to perform indoor workouts properly.
One of the main criticisms of training shoes is that everyone’s feet are different and manufacturers do not always cater to all needs in one version of a shoe. This means that you need to know your feet and have certain characteristics before making a purchase. Of course, it is important to have your feet measured, but there are some basic tips you should know to narrow down the vast number of options.
We have compiled a brief review of the best shoes for treadmill walking. We have reviewed many reviews by shoe experts and past users to provide you with a list of the most reliable shoes for treadmill walking. A good layout of features, pros, and cons makes it easy to narrow down these models based on your personal needs and preferences.
Best Shoes For Treadmill Walking
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Follow The Rules
Walking on a treadmill is different than running, and the same shoes are not necessarily appropriate for both activities. It is good for exercisers to know what movements to expect when training on a treadmill. Running on a treadmill is a completely different motion than running on the floor, and the shock absorbed by the soles of the feet is greater. Shoes worn during a treadmill workout should be well cushioned to avoid injury.
Know Your Soles
Wearing the wrong shoes can cause injury or aggravate foot ailments, so it is recommended that anyone who exercises and has foot problems consult a podiatrist before buying running or walking shoes. When purchasing sports shoes for the first time, it is a good idea to have your feet measured at a sports shoe store. The store staff can correctly measure each foot and point out any gait problems such as overpronation or pigeon-toed. There are three common types of feet
Normal Feet
Most people have normal feet and there are the most shoe options for people with normal feet.
Squat Feet
People with flat feet have no arches. There is no visible curve between the big toe and the heel. People with flat feet tend to curl their feet inward when they walk or run, so they need to wear shoes that stabilize their feet.
High-Arch Feet
High-arch feet need special attention because the arches are often reduced by running. People with high arches usually let their feet fall outward when running. Shoes with high shock absorption and flexibility are needed.
Weight
Shoes designed for walking and running should be lightweight so that they can be moved around quickly. The problem with very lightweight shoes is that they contain very little cushioning. Each exerciser should try different shoes to find the perfect balance between shoe weight and cushioning.
Cushions
Most people who run on a treadmill put more stress on their heels than on their toes. Therefore, additional cushioning should be added to the heel of the shoe to reduce the impact of running on the treadmill. Adequate cushioning supports each runner’s running position and prevents soreness the next day. Pain-free runners can continue their daily exercise program.
Fortunately, you can skip the exhaustive research and try any of these six best shoes for treadmill running, according to physical therapists and trainers.
Comfort
The best shoes are those that are comfortable for the user. Walking or running in uncomfortable shoes can cause injury. It is also difficult to motivate yourself to exercise if you know you are not comfortable. It may take some trial and error to find the right shoes for your feet, but wearing shoes that fit and feel good on your feet properly is well worth it.
According to a survey conducted by Enestro (Center for Foot Comfort), the average American owns about 11 pairs of shoes, three of which are not worn because they are uncomfortable. The best shoes for sports are those that runners and walkers feel comfortable in and want to wear.
Flexibility
If sports shoes are not flexible enough, problems such as syn splints can occur. A good running shoe should bend at the ball of the thumb, not at the arch. Also, if someone bends, the shoe should also bend. The shape of each person’s foot is different, so it is difficult for manufacturers to balance support and flexibility in every shoe. Cross-training shoes tend to be ideal for a variety of activities, but may not be the best shoes for just running or walking.
Barefoot
Running barefoot is popular, but it is dangerous to run barefoot on a treadmill because many treadmills generate heat due to the friction of the belt. Also, running barefoot on a treadmill can cause the user to step on their toes where the belt meets the front of the machine. This can be painful and lead to injury. Blisters are common for runners who use the treadmill barefoot.
Budget
Although budget should not be the most important consideration when purchasing athletic shoes, it is important that most people find the best quality shoes at the lowest possible price. Comparison shopping is a great idea, and the Internet is a good source for doing this. Shoppers should try on the shoes in the store to see which ones fit their feet best and are the most comfortable. Remember that shoes need to be replaced after about 300-500 km.
It is best to buy shoes in the afternoon, as it is normal for feet to swell a bit during the day. Shoes that are too tight can cause blisters and discomfort. Wear the same socks you wear when exercising so that the shoes will fit properly when exercise.
FAQs
Do I absolutely have to wear shoes when using a treadmill?
Yes, it is mandatory to wear shoes when using a treadmill. Shoes serve as a necessary protective coating. Also, when using the treadmill at high speeds, it is not very gentle on your feet.
Do treadmill shoes provide the arch support I need?
Some shoes provide excellent arch support, while others do not. Most of the shoes you will find on this list provide adequate arch support, but we have also described neutral shoes for people with normal arches. If custom arch support is needed, there are many shoes that can be used with custom orthotics or insoles.
What kind of comfort should older adults expect from running shoes?
Older adults who use treadmills need maximum comfort. As they age, their body tissues become thinner and their feet may become sore. Therefore, the best shoes for the elderly should have good cushioning and yet be lightweight.
Is ventilation an important factor even when training indoors?
No. Ventilation is an important factor even when training indoors. Proper ventilation of shoes, whether indoors or outdoors, contributes greatly to foot comfort. When air is circulating properly in the shoes, sweat is less likely to accumulate on the feet. Proper air circulation also helps to maintain a more appropriate temperature inside the shoe, especially during strenuous exercise.
Conclusion
Walking on a treadmill can be a great workout if you have the right shoes. Basic features include durability, flexibility, and the shoe’s level of support. The design should be breathable and cushioned. The overall weight of the product is also an important factor. Heavy or bulky shoes can cause fatigue, especially after long walks. Lightweight shoes may not provide sufficient cushioning.
Knowing your needs is important to prevent foot discomfort and injury. Fortunately, the choices reviewed above incorporate most of these features in a shoe that is ideal for treadmill walking. We based our criteria on overall comfort, support, flexibility, and the ability to remain manageable even when the treadmill feels slippery.
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