Whether you're hitting the pavement, exploring the backcountry, or charging the pickleball court, your footwear matters more than you might think. The right shoes can help you move more comfortably, perform better, and most importantly—avoid injury. But with so many options out there, how do you choose what’s right for you?
Let’s take a closer look at what to consider when choosing footwear for three common activities: running, hiking, and pickleball.
Running Shoes: Cushioning, Stability & Flexibility
Running puts repetitive impact on your feet and joints, so having the right support is critical. A good running shoe generally offers:
- Cushioning in the heel and forefoot to absorb shock
- Breathable materials to reduce moisture and heat
- Proper flexibility to allow for a natural running stride
When shopping for running shoes, be prepared to spend a bit more for quality. Lower-priced options may not offer the same durability, support, or design features that protect your feet over long distances.
Hiking Shoes: Support, Grip & Protection
Unlike running on flat, predictable surfaces, hiking exposes your feet to a variety of terrain. Good hiking shoes should provide:
- Strong grip and tread for stability on rocks, dirt, and mud
- Ankle support to reduce the risk of sprains on uneven ground
- Durable construction with reinforced toe caps and water resistance
- Comfortable yet firm midsoles for balance and support over long distances
Again, a higher price tag often reflects better materials and longer lifespan. The extra investment pays off in the form of comfort and injury prevention, especially on long or rugged hikes.
Pickleball Shoes: Lateral Support, Stability & Court Grip
Pickleball involves quick stops, starts, and side-to-side movement—much different from running. For this fast-paced sport, look for:
- Lateral support to protect against ankle rolling
- Stable soles that grip the court without slipping
- Snug, secure fit to prevent foot sliding inside the shoe
- Court-friendly soles (especially for indoor play) that won’t mark surfaces
Avoid using running shoes for pickleball. They’re designed for forward motion, not lateral stability, and using them on the court can increase your risk of injury.
Quality Matters—and So Does Flexibility
While it’s tempting to grab the most affordable option on the shelf, investing in a well-made shoe often means better comfort, performance, and injury prevention. Fortunately, many athletic and specialty shoe stores today offer trial periods or satisfaction guarantees. If you wear a shoe and realize it doesn’t work for your foot or your sport, you can often return it for a full refund or exchange it for a better-fitting pair. It’s worth asking about return policies before purchasing.
Pro tip: Try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are naturally a bit more swollen. This gives you a better idea of how the shoes will fit during activity—when your feet are at their largest.
Every Foot is Unique
It’s important to remember that even within these general guidelines, no two feet are the same. Your foot’s shape, size, arch, and biomechanics will influence which shoe works best. That’s why it’s crucial to try on shoes and assess how they feel during the activity itself—not just in the store aisle.
When Foot Pain Gets in the Way—We’re Here to Help
If you’re dealing with ongoing foot or ankle pain, don’t just blame the shoes. Persistent discomfort could be a sign of an underlying issue that needs professional evaluation. Our foot and ankle specialists can assess your unique foot structure and help guide you to the right footwear—or treatment—so you can stay active and pain-free.
Take care of your feet—and they’ll take you everywhere.
Contact our office today if you’re experiencing foot or ankle pain. We’re here to help you move better, play harder, and live comfortably.
