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When you played a sport recreationally as a child, you may not have thought about the type of shoes you need to wear for that activity. For example, one might grab soccer cleats to play backyard football or use running shoes to shoot hoops.
However, as an adult, you must wear shoes specific to the sport to ensure your safety.
Finding the Right Fit
Finding the proper fit is vital regardless of the sport you’re playing. Your journey should begin by going to a store–physically or virtually–that specializes in that shoe. For example, if you are an avid pickleball player, you should explore a store with pickleball clothing and shoes.
Other helpful tips include waiting to try on shoes after you’ve been on your feet. Your feet swell throughout the day, so you might not get an accurate measurement if you haven’t engaged in physical activity.
Additionally, wear the same socks you plan to wear with the shoes. If you have half an inch between your longest toe and the tip of the shoe, you have found your glass slipper.
Running Shoe Variations
Your standard running shoe can be the most confusing of all the shoes. These kicks are categorized into cushion, stability, and motion control. It’s in your best interest to have a professional size you and recommend what suits your style to prevent potential injuries. Stress fractures, corns, and plantar fasciitis are all common conditions someone could experience with improper running shoes.
The Difference in Cleats
It’s nice to assume that all cleats serve the same purpose, allowing you to wear them for various sports. Sadly, that’s not the case because each sport’s cleats differ vastly.
Baseball cleats have a toe cleat that helps players dig in the dirt to gain traction. Football cleats are longer than a pair of baseball cleats because there is more cutting and turning, requiring a shoe that gives more control. Then, there are soccer cleats, the catch-all cleats if you’re in a bind and need something for support or traction.
Basketball & Court Shoes
The common theme for shoes designed for sport is that they are better for preventing injury. A basketball shoe is no different, providing high ankle support to stay safe on the hardwood. Plus, they can improve your game by giving you more speed and versatility.
You won’t get away with wearing running shoes for any court game because court shoes offer the traction the player needs to maneuver around the court. You’ll roll an ankle within 10 minutes if you step on the court with shoes with too much grip.
Before participating in your next athletic activity, remember why wearing shoes specific to that sport is essential. If you are a well-versed athlete, you might have a closet full of shoes, but they all should keep you from hurting yourself.
