There is this question that is asked by many walking enthusiasts, as well as casual basketball players: “Are Basketball Shoes Good For Walking?”

The short answer is Yes although, it is tied to several factors such as the ground you are walking, and your weight (check chapter 2 for more information)

As Basketball grew in popularity, basketball shoes became a common sight in the public. That is because it is both comfortable and fashionable while providing excellent traction and ankle protection.

Let’s dive directly into the features that you should think about before and after buying Basketball Shoes.

Things to Consider Before Buying Basketball Shoes

Not every piece of equipment is a universal fit for everybody. In our case, it has more unique applications compared to choosing a casual pair of shoes. Therefore you will take into consideration the following aspects.

Walking and Running in Short Distances 

Walking with basketball shoes is comfortable, irrelevant of the distance. On the other hand, running long distances is not recommended with these shoes. Especially if you are a serious runner, do not even consider jogging in basketball shoes.

Running more than 10 kilometres each week is already excessive. Because basketball shoes are a little heavier, running a straight ahead track where you don’t have to change directions as much is fantastic. That way, you’ll have greater force for later pick-up games.

Your Weight 

A person’s weight plays a crucial role in determining whether walking or running is comfortable in these types of shoes.

If you’ve been away from running for a while, running in basketball shoes may be good for your ankle health. Consider what the basketball shoe has to offer: excellent ankle support and stability, as well as excellent grip.

All of these things are important if you’re overweight and haven’t done anything in the previous several years that is commensurate with your physical state. Running shoes, on the other hand, are lighter and hence provide less stability, thus, safety for your exercises.

In addition, if you are overweight, you can easily compensate for the fact that basketball shoes are also heavy. Thus, this will result in more comfortable and efficient running.

Cushioning

When a human being runs, the body is subjected to some form of shock with each stride. Because of gravity, every time your heels touch the ground, it reacts as if a 2.5-times-your-body weight is being slammed into your heels.

Except in this case, the object is the floor, which you’re kicking. Cushioning acts as a shock absorption mechanism and protects your heels from excessive pressure.

Walking/Running Shoes and Playing Shoes Have To Be Different 

Basketball shoes have been designed in order to provide you with the best traction possible. However, if you have only a pair, do not use them for walking or running because it might lower the lifespan due to the corrosion of the soles of the shoes.

This will dramatically lower the traction whenever you are playing basketball indoors. In short, if you cannot afford two different pairs for running/walking and playing, do not use them outdoors.

Perfect Fit

It is crucial to emphasize the importance of the fitness of the shoes to your feet. Because they are heavier than running shoes, they must be worn close to the feet.

If it does not, it poses a serious risk of an ankle injury, and as a result, your knees might get harmed. In addition, you have to make sure the laces are securely fastened. If you were to wear a pair of shoes that do not fit perfectly, we strongly discourage you to run with them.

Surface

Know your surface. Concrete is 10x hard compared to asphalt, resulting in more force applied to your feet. Also, there is a high probability of clashing with pedestrians.

Snow might make the surface slippery, and can often change to ice, which makes running and walking difficult but also dangerous to do so.

On the other hand, you might walk or run on sand, however, since you will be walking or running with added weight, and maybe irritating to do exercise (plus it is corrosive and gets everywhere).

Our Recommendations For Casual Wear Basketball Shoes 

Nike Mens KD Trey 5 VIII Basketball Shoes

 

Soft, responsive foam cushioning is combined with multidirectional traction for control in the KD Trey 5 VIII. The perforated foam pods in the mid-top design make you feel secure around your ankle.

PEAK Lou Williams Lightning Basketball Shoes

To improve your grip on the floor, these shoes use an abrasion-resistant rubber sole, as well as a STA anti-rollover module to keep you from slipping. Also, these lightweight and breathable sneakers are not only a good option for basketball, but also for the gym, running, casual walks, workouts, travel, and more!

Conclusion

Basketball shoes are especially great for walking as it provides an extra layer of safety and comfort to your foot. However, depending on your physique and the environment, running might not be as enjoyable as it would have been with a pair of running shoes.