Tennis vs. Running Shoes: What Are the Differences?
Are you in the market for a new pair of kicks? If you’re into the recent athleisure wear trend, then you’re likely looking for some sweet sneakers to amplify your wardrobe.
As you browse the options, you’ll soon find that there are many different types of athletic footwear on the market. Two of the most popular ones are tennis shoes and running shoes.
Wait, aren’t these the exact same thing? Not quite, and today we’re explaining how they’re different. In this guide, we’ll break down the nuances between tennis vs. running shoes so you can make an informed buying decision.
Running Shoes: Cushion, Cushion, Cushion
Running is a high-impact sport. Whether you’re sprinting or jogging, you’re putting a ton of stress and weight on your hips, knees, legs, and feet.
Sneakers that are specifically marketed as running shoes are designed to cushion that impact as much as possible. Their sole purpose is to support and stabilize your feet while keeping them protected at all times.
They’ll usually include a significant amount of padding in key friction areas, such as your heels and toes. This way, when your foot strikes the ground, you won’t feel the impact as much.
Within the running shoe realm, there are three main styles to choose from. These include:
- Neutral running shoes
- Stability running shoes
- Motion control running shoes
Let’s break each of these down.
Neutral Running Shoes
Neutral running shoes are designed for people who follow a neutral or “correct” pattern when they run. They aren’t designed to correct any issues, such as overpronation, and they include all-over cushioning for universal support.
Stability Running Shoes
Stability running shoes are designed with special features meant to assist runners who overpronate. This means their feet naturally roll inward as they run, which can pose a health and safety risk. These shoes will include extra arch support, as well as more support through the heel and midsole to help gently correct this problem.
Motion Control Running Shoes
Similarly, motion control running shoes are designed to limit your foot’s range of motion while you run. You might need these shoes if you severely overpronate, but the most common wearers are those whose feet are especially heavy or flat.
If you find it difficult to distinguish between these types of shoes online or in-store, ask a company representative to explain how their products differ. They should be able to offer a running shoes guide to help you choose the perfect pair.
Tennis Shoes: All About Lateral Support
When you run, you’re usually headed in one general direction: forward. This isn’t the case when you play tennis. This sport requires a great deal of lateral motion, which means moving from side to side.
Sneakers that are marketed as tennis shoes will include features designed to support and stabilize this movement. As their name implies, they’re specifically meant to be used on the tennis court, though they’ve made their way into mainstream apparel since their debut in the early 1800s.
While tennis shoes will include some cushioning, they’re mostly designed to keep a player’s foot as close to the ground as possible. This is because a low foot-to-ground distance gives athletes more control over their bodies and their range of motion.
If you pay close attention to a tennis shoes guide, you’ll find many terms and references made to lateral support. These are design elements built into the interior and exterior of the shoe to keep you stable on the court.
Sole Structure and Ruggedness
Next, let’s talk about the soles of each type of shoe. As mentioned, most running shoes are designed with maximum cushioning and springiness built into the sole. As soon as those cushions wear down, runners will trade that pair for a new one.
When you run, the bottom of your foot receives the most impact. Thus, running shoes worn on a regular basis will only last around 300 to 500 miles before you need to replace them.
On the other hand, you put more weight on the outer edges of your feet when you play tennis. As a result, the first noticeable signs of wear usually occur around the outsoles. Over time, the perimeter of the shoe will become so worn down that the traction is no longer sufficient, and a replacement will be necessary.
To prevent tennis shoes from wearing out too quickly, manufacturers usually design them to be more rugged and durable than running shoes.
What About Weight?
Tennis shoes and running shoes also differ in terms of weight. When you run, you don’t want anything weighing down your feet. You want to be able to go long distances without feeling fatigued, so lightweight shoes are a must-have.
As such, you’ll find running shoes made with light, flexible materials. Examples include the Flyknit uppers found on many Nike running shoes and the Primeknit technology built into Adidas sneakers.
Pairs like these are so comfortable that people will often wear them from day to night, even when they aren’t actively running or working out. Over the years, Nike running shoes, in particular, have grown a massive following of loyal customers who swear by their comfort and longevity. If you need new Nike kicks this year, you can check out this full article on kickscrew.com all about the best pairs for 2022!
While tennis shoes should also be lightweight, this isn’t their primary focus. If possible, manufacturers will look for ways to remove excess weight, but they’ll never do so if it means sacrificing features that add necessary lateral stability.
As such, you’ll find that most tennis shoes are heavier and more rigid than their running shoe counterparts. They’re also less likely to be worn outside of the tennis court.
Tennis vs. Running Shoes: Which Do You Need?
In the debate between tennis vs. running shoes, there isn’t a clear winner. The specific type of shoes that you need will depend on the activity you plan to participate in, and how much support you need.
If you’re in the market for running shoes, look for ones that offer ample cushioning and foot protection. If you need tennis shoes, prioritize lateral stability and material durability. That way, you can be confident you’ve chosen the right pair.
Looking for more ways to up your athletic game and look great as you do so? Check out our Sports section for inspiration!
