Hiking is a great adventure that brings you closer to nature and keeps you fit. When it comes to this vigorous activity, you must keep certain things in mind to prevent injuries or discomfort. One of them is selecting the shoes you have to wear. Having the proper footwear keeps you comfortable and makes the experience more enjoyable. You can check off this aspect from your list by understanding which type of shoes you need.
Most people think hiking shoes are the best option, but that is not true in every case. Today, we will help you understand why running shoes for men are also an excellent choice and how they can improve your hiking journey.
Before discussing the features and benefits of running shoes for men, let us understand more about them.
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Running Shoes for Men – A Brief Understanding
Running shoes are designed for superior performance and long-lasting comfort. They help you walk easily on rough and uneven terrains, making them an excellent choice for hiking adventures. These shoes also provide cushioning and stability to your feet, making walking continuously on hard surfaces easier. Running shoes are primarily designed for running purposes. But you can also use them for hiking.
Running Shoes Vs. Hiking Shoes: Why Choose the Former?
It is a common misconception that hiking shoes are the only choice for your adventure. But running shoes for men have some distinct features that make them another great option, especially for long trails.
1. Lightweight Construction
Hiking shoes have a heavy build, whereas running shoes for men are featherlight. Imagine walking long distances in shoes that feel heavy; they will automatically slow down your speed and lead to more fatigue. But if your shoes are lightweight, you can cover any trail without tiring your feet.
2. Cushioning
You are prone to stress fractures, joint pain, and tendonitis when you hike for long hours. This is where the running shoes play an important role. They have sufficient cushioning for impact absorption and stress alleviation to ensure a minimum risk of injuries. You can go for shoes with a tall midsole, which has better cushioning than short midsoles.
3. Comfort
Long-distance hikes can be tiresome and difficult to complete. That’s why you always want shoes that will never compromise your comfort. Running shoes for men are designed for a comfortable fit and maximum support.
4. Versatility
Running shoes provide something that hiking boots don’t – versatility. These shoes are favourable for off and on trails, making them an ideal choice for adventurers who want it all. Also, they come in a range of colours and prints to style with all kinds of hiking outfits.
5. Easy Break-in
Hiking shoes are difficult to break in. You cannot just slip into them and begin your adventure. Contrary to these shoes, running shoes for men are much easier to deal with. You can use them right after the purchase. Let’s say you brought a pair of shoes, and they got damaged even before beginning the hike. You cannot buy new hiking shoes and kick off the journey. This is only possible with running shoes.
Now you have a clear idea of why running shoes are beneficial. Let us look at how different shoe parts improve your hiking experience.
Anatomy of Running Shoes for Men: The Role They Play
The running shoes of men have five parts –
1. Upper
The top portion of running shoes is called the upper. It impacts the overall flexibility, breathability, and stability. A good pair of running shoes for men has a flexible upper and provides maximum comfort, especially for long distances.
2. Midsole
The midsole is one of the most important components of any shoe. It provides stability and shock absorption. Generally, this part is made from PU or EVA foam to propel you forward. It reduces foot fatigue and provides continuous comfort.
3. Outsole
Outsole of running shoes generally has a rubber construction. It provides traction and grip on uneven surfaces. If you are planning a hike, these shoes with lugs and rubber outsole will provide uncompromised performance for long hours.
4. Toe Box
Toe box is the front part of the shoes and gives room for your toes to wiggle. This minimises the chances of blisters and toe pain, which are prevalent during trail walking. In certain running shoes for men, there is a better arch off from the ground, which provides a spring in your walk.
5. Heel Counter
Heel counter is the backside of the running shoes for men. This is made from rigid materials for maximum stability and minimum impact. A rigid heel counter combined with a high heel drop provides arch support, which is important for adventures like hiking.
Wrapping Up
Running shoes for men are a favourable choice for long and easy hikes. Their strong build, durability, and maximum support keep your feet free from pain and stress. These shoes also have a lacing system for a customised fit. Their lightweight design and comfortable fit add to the reasons why these shoes are great for your adventures. So, explore a range of running shoes for men and pick a pair that suits your requirements and style statement.
