How To Know Difference Between Men’s And Women’s Shoes In The Right Ways
If you are shopping for a new pair of shoes, you may believe that anything goes. The truth is there is a big difference between men’s and women’s shoes. Whether you are a male or female, knowing the right kind of shoes will have a significant effect on your comfort. Aside from the obvious color and look, more things set them apart.
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4 Major Differences
#1. The Shape
The width of women’s shoes is wider in the toe area and narrower in the heel area. This is one easy way to identify women’s shoes. Men’s shoes, on the other hand, are wider in size compared to women’s shoes. The narrow shape in the heel area of women’s shoes helps to support pronation over time and reduces the rate at which the individual experiences wear and tear.
There is, in fact, a research that has been done that is the reason behind the narrow heel area of women’s shoes. Generally speaking, following the prescribed type of shoe for your gender can help ensure you have the right amount of comfort. In addition, taking shape into account may help prevent future injuries.
#2. The Fit
No matter how many rules there may be out there about what is supposed to be worn by a man or a woman, a lot boils down to personal comfort. For example, women with the wide foot, she may feel more comfortable in male shoes. Similarly, if a man has narrow feet, he may find women’s shoes ideal for running.
For this reason, many prefer the fit of the opposite sex. This is totally a personal choice but before you decide, always carefully fit the shoe in the store. We have more tips on choosing the right athletic shoes below.
#3. The Weight Factor
Since men are heavier than women, the soles of their shoes are designed to sustain more impact. Women’s shoes, on the other hand, have softer and lighter midsoles since they need to sustain 15% less weight.
Another difference that is brought about by the weight factor is that women’s shoes often contain deeper grooves in the forefront of the outsole. This is because the weight of the lower body of women is more than that of men. This makes it difficult for women to flex the midsole. The grooves in the forefront try and help address this issue.
#4. The Q Angle
Via liftbigeatbig.com
Women have larger hips than men and this interestingly affects the shape of their feet. The Q angle is the angle of the foot muscle particularly the quad muscle about the knee cap. Compared to men, women have wider angles. Because of this, they require more support and tend to pronate more.
This over-pronation is what causes women to wear their shoes out in certain places while men usually have regular wear. Men’s shoes do not provide the extent of support to fight against pronation. This is why designers of women’s shoes take this into account and use a different material for the sole of women’s shoes. Failure to wear proper shoes meant for women may cause injury over time.
Although it is common for men to wear women’s shoes and vice versa, these four factors show that men's shoes and women’s’ shoes vary in many ways. Whichever shoes you choose for your running, there are some basic principles to follow.
Tips In Choosing Running Shoes
- Tip #1
- TIP #2
- TIP #3
- Tip #4
Know Your Issues
If you suffer from any knee or foot problems, you will need to be extra careful in selecting your shoes. Always make sure to ask for professional help when making a selection.
For example, people with knee problems ought to have shoes that provide extra support and cushioning. There are also orthopedic athletic shoes that you may consider for more serious problems such as plantar fasciitis.
The Conclusion
The difference between men and women’s shoes mainly lies in the shape and size. Generally, men have wider shoes while women’s shoes are wide in the front and narrow at the back. The weight factor and shape of foot are other major differences.
When choosing a pair of shoes, always remember to consider the needs of your foot. Bear in mind that there is no single rule for everyone and at the end of the day, your comfort is what matters the most. Regularly measure your feet to make sure you get the right size and always fit your prospect with the socks you will wear during your run.
How did you like this article? Have you tried wearing shoes of the opposite sex? Let us know all about your shoe experiences in the comments below. Share this information with others and help us spread awareness.
