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Running Shoes vs Tennis Shoes

Running Shoes vs Tennis Shoes
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Whether you consider tennis or running, both sports rely primarily on the feet. However, the way feet get used in each sport is different. Either you need to take a stance to smash a shot or run the last few meters in a race. Therefore, having the appropriate footwear is significant.

Wearing the incorrect footwear can lead to blisters, fatigue, ankle sprains, or even grim injuries. Primarily, the midsole separates the tennis shoes from the running shoes.

While the midsole of the tennis shoes facilitates side-to-side movement, thereby having a flat rigid heel. On the other hand, the design of running shoes solely promotes movement in the forward direction. Therefore, the manufacturers fill the heel with gel.

We have created this short guide to help you differentiate between the two types of shoes to solve your confusion.

Your Running Shoe Guide

When running, the feet require stability provided to them by cushioning. The cushioning ability is the capability of a shoe to absorb the force exerted upon impact. Cushioning provides stability, but it also protects from the impact on your ankles, joints, feet, and knees, reducing any chances of injury.

Not to mention, it is important that the heel and toe area of the shoe receives adequate cushioning to provide comfort when your feet come in contact with the ground.

Also, flexibility is an essential aspect of running shoes. A flexible shoe allows your feet to move when running as hard as possible. A shoe that is not flexible enough prevents the feet from moving freely, which usually leads to ankle sprains. Friction in running shoes is considerably low compared to tennis shoes. Initially, the grip is superb; however, it diminishes after continual use. Once running shoes lose their grip, they get discarded.

The manufacturers design running shoes to be lighter to enable the runner to pick up the pace and run as fast as possible. Furthermore, the companies use the most delicate material to make running shoes that facilitate the runner and allow them to shift directions instantly.

Running shoes have a significant difference in height between the toe and the heel, so that the shoe has an inclined downward slope. E.g., if the height of the toe is 17mm and the height of the heel is 29mm, the heel-to-toe difference is 12mm. It impacts the way a runner’s foot lands when running.

Different brands advise different periods after replacing the shoes. Multiple factors that include weight, surface, weather, and running style affect the durability of the running shoes. It would be efficient to replace your running shoes every 350 to 550 miles.

ASICS Men's Gel-Venture 8 Running Shoes Black/White 10.5 M

Your Tennis Shoe Guide

When playing tennis, your weight primarily concentrates on your toes, so they need proper cushioning. However, cushioning in a tennis shoe is not as significant as in running shoes. Still, tennis shoes need adequate cushioning when playing on hard courts to enhance the player’s movement.

Not to mention, flexibility is not as crucial as running shoes; however, tennis shoes require stability and lateral support. These have a considerable impact on a tennis player’s movement since they are primarily side-to-side.

Manufacturers design tennis shoes to support the sudden side-to-side movement of a player and prevent the chances of an injury. Tennis shoes jam the foot and ankle, reducing their activity, which keeps the player safe.

Having a perfect grip is a basic necessity in tennis shoes. A shoe with an excellent grip allows the tennis player to move when they have to run across the court to return the smash. If tennis shoes do not have a firm grip, the player’s chances of slipping and sustaining an injury enhance.

Weight is not an essential aspect when manufacturing a tennis shoe. Nevertheless, manufacturers have to make them reasonably light so that they can be easy for the feet and enable the player to change directions rapidly according to the situation.

In tennis shoes, the heel-to-toe ratio is zero since the sole purpose is to provide stability to the feet and allow them to move laterally without slipping.

According to pro tennis players, tennis shoes should last one year. Nevertheless, their durability relies on the playing style, the weather, and the court condition. It would be best to replace your tennis shoes after 72 hours of use.

WILSON Men's Rush PRO 3.0 PB Pickleball Shoe, Black/White/Infrared, 9

Tennis Shoes vs Running Shoes: Which Side to Choose?

Both shoes differ from one another in multiple aspects, so the choice is up to you. Tennis shoes provide flexibility and stability and allow a quick change of direction. Contrarily, running shoes allow you adequate cushioning and better support.

Nevertheless, you need to be aware of your condition and wear the appropriate footwear according to your need to prevent any chances of injury.

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