If you are a sneakerhead, we understand how it feels when someone calls your sneakers shoes. However, if you are on the other side referring to your sneakers as shoes, please stop! There is a difference between sneakers and shoes. Actually, sneakers are shoes, so you are not technically wrong. But, they have specific properties which make them sneakers.
We know shoes and sneakers might look the same at some point, but there are minute details that make sneakers unique. Now you might wonder how to not get confused between sneakers and shoes.
Don’t worry! We have your back in this guide. We will explain to you the difference between shoes and sneakers and exactly what are sneakers and shoes too. Moreover, this sneakers vs shoe guide include FAQs that might help you, so read it till the end.
SNEAKERS VS SHOES
WHAT ARE SHOES ?
There is no way a person on earth doesn’t know what shoes are as we humans wear them at some point in our life. However, as we promised, we will explain it. So basically, shoes are a type of footwear that has a good closure and have different types (out of which one are sneakers).
It’s a generic term for closed footwear. Many people wear shoes for the comfort they provide. Shoes are mostly made of leather nylon, canvas, and many other fabrics. Mostly, the soles of shoes are made of polyurethane plastic and EVA. And each of them is made for a specific work. Types of shoes include slip-on shoes, boots, oxfords, and sneakers.
WHAT ARE SNEAKERS?
There is no way a person on earth doesn’t know what shoes are as we humans wear them at some point in our life. However, as we promised, we will explain it. So basically, shoes are a type of footwear that has a good closure and have different types (out of which one are sneakers).
It’s a generic term for closed footwear. Many people wear shoes for the comfort they provide. Shoes are mostly made of leather nylon, canvas, and many other fabrics. Mostly, the soles of shoes are made of polyurethane plastic and EVA. And each of them is made for a specific work. Types of shoes include slip-on shoes, boots, oxfords, and sneakers.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SNEAKERS AND SHOES
Cushioning Level
Sneakers and shoes of other types have the same low level of cushioning except for running, tennis, and athletic shoes. Even if sneakers are comfortable and lightweight, they have hard soles with less cushioning. Therefore, with sneakers, you can go for some miles, but in the end, you will realize that sneakers are not great for running.
On the other hand, the running shoes are highly padded and comfortable, so you need not worry about foot injury or discomfort while wearing them. Further, there are many types of shoes providing lots of padding for a comfortable walk.
Motion Control
Motion control is the control you have on your foot while wearing any footwear. Suppose you are buying sneakers for general wear. No need to check motion control. However, if you are a runner or an athlete, choosing a pair of shoes with good motion control is highly important.
You cannot do the sneaker vs shoe comparison for motion control as it solely depends on the manufacturer. However, according to our experience, sneakers have better motion control as compared to many other shoes.
Heel Height
When it comes to sneakers vs tennis shoes or sneakers vs gym shoes, sneakers have a lesser heel height. Hence, don’t consider wearing sneakers on a hiking trip or a marathon. Also, small heel height can make it easier for thorns and sharp pieces to pierce through your shoe soles. If you don’t have any plans of running or hiking over rocks, you can go for sneakers.
Flexibility
Even though people consider sneakers as the most flexible in their rubber soles, they are overall more rigid than running or tennis shoes. Also, sneakers are not that durable and might tear if you apply high pressure. Besides that, if you are not performing any high-intensity workout or running, and are confused between sneakers or shoes, go for the first one. Hence, sneakers are great for casual wear, but you cannot expect high flexibility from them.
Sandals are only meant for walking, and doing any other thing can be dangerous due to the poor support that they provide. They also provide good air circulation to your feet and help them stay fresh, but at the same time make them prone to dust, dirt, and tanning.
Shoes, on the other hand, cover the feet completely and protect them from harsh weather conditions. Shoes are an all-rounder as they serve multiple purposes. You can walk, trek, run, jog, jump, etc., in them. They are more comfortable than sandals as they provide better cushioning and heel support.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. Tennis Shoe Vs Sneaker
Sneakers and tennis shoes are not the same things. Sneakers are for casual wear, you cannot perform high-intensity activities. On the other hand, tennis shoes are strong, shock-absorbent, and give a better grip. Furthermore, tennis shoes are more expensive than sneakers.
2. Sneakers Vs Running Shoes
Running shoes are highly cushioned and are more comfortable than sneakers. On the other hand, sneakers are lightly padded and can rip off if used more than their capacity.
3. What’s The Difference Between Sneakers And Gym Shoes
The main difference between sneakers and gym shoes is that gym shoes are used indoors while sneakers are casually worn outdoors. Gym shoes are used while gymming and other indoor training, while sneakers have a fully different functioning.
CONCLUSION
There is a way lot of difference between sneakers and running shoes, tennis shoes, and many others. And we hope that now you can differentiate between them. And also know where to use them correctly. Moreover, if you are buying new sneakers, keep in mind you can use them casually only. If you try using them while running, they might break and, even worse, cause you an injury. Hence, get a pair of running shoes for highly intense activities.
Justin is a Master Fitness Trainer, coach, and consultant. Justin holds Science degrees in biological science, natural life science, and human anatomy focus. He has been assisting as a Fitness trainer for over 15 years in the health and fitness industry. He enjoys teaching others to achieve their goals and wellness using his expertise.