Are Vans Good Shoes for Walking?
With their iconic checkerboard slip-ons and old skool styles, Vans have long been associated more with skateparks than sidewalks. But are the popular canvas sneakers actually good for all-day wear and walking? There are a few factors to consider before making Vans your go-to pair.
Minimal Arch Support
Most Vans styles, including their classic slip-ons and low top sneakers, offer fairly flat soles and little if any arch support. This helps boardfeel for tricks but can be hard on your feet pounding pavement.
Over longer distances, inadequate arch support can cause foot soreness, knee or back pain. So Vans may not be the best choice for extended walking like long city strolls or nature hikes.
Limited Cushioning
The slim rubber soles and canvas uppers of Vans are designed for flexibility and board control. They aren’t made to absorb shock or cushion your feet the way athletic walking or running shoes do.
Going several miles in Vans can really fatigue your joints due to repetitive impact. Thin soles also offer less insulation from hot asphalt or rough terrain compared to hiking boots.
Traction Varies by Sole
The iconic waffle pattern on most Vans soles actually provides pretty decent grip and traction. Their vulcanized rubber compound is formulated to stick to griptape.
However, some slick-soled Vans without deep grooves may be more prone to slippage on wet or uneven ground. So opt for a lugged sole style if dealing with mud or unpredictable surfaces.
Vans Designed for Walking
While not all Vans work well for extensive walking, they do offer a few options better suited to being on your feet all day thanks to reinforced arches, extra cushioning and deeper treads:
Ultrarange Hiking Sneakers
The Ultrarange line features bulkier soles with defined lugs, padded heels and patterned insoles for grip. Models like the UltraRange Rapidweld and EXO Hi MTE are much closer to trail hikers that can handle miles.
ComfyCush Collection
Vans ComfyCush sneakers like the Classic Slip-On and Sk8-Mid Pro have extra thick, cushioned midsoles for shock absorption with every step. They offer bounce and support closer to running shoes.
Work Shoes
Durable Vans work shoes are specifically designed for jobs that require long hours on your feet. Options like the Slip-ER Resistant Lace Ups or Atwood Safety Trainers have slip-resistant treads, reinforced toe caps and cushioned insoles ideal for walking.
Modifying Standard Vans for Walking
If you prefer wearing basic Vans silhouettes, there are a few hacks to make them better for walking longer distances:
Add Orthotic Insoles
Inserting custom orthotics or supportive insoles gives needed structure and cushioning. Look for options with ample arch contouring to prevent foot strain and fatigue.
Go Bigger
Sizing up allows room for added insoles without squeezing toes. Going a half or full size up in roomy platforms like the Vans SK8-Hi can make them much comfier for walking.
Replace Laces
Elastic laces turn slip-ons into effortless pull on shoes. They prevent pressure spots from tied laces digging into feet during all-day wear, making every step easier.
How to Choose the Best Shoes for Walking
Since the average person takes around 5,000 to 10,000 steps per day, having proper footwear matters. Here’s what podiatrists recommend looking for in walking shoes:
Proper Fit
Shoes should fit your feet snugly without pinching at the heels, toes or sides which can cause blisters or joint pain. Make sure to try on with your typical walking socks.
Adequate Cushioning
Prioritize thick, shock-absorbing midsoles and insoles that soften impact with every stride. This protects joints and muscles from strain.
Supportive Arch Design
Curved arch compression helps prevent overpronation which can ultimately lead to sore knees and lower back problems from poor alignment.
Slip Resistant Soles
Lugged tread patterns give reliable traction across changing terrain and in wet weather to prevent falls or rolled ankles.
Breathability
Mesh panels or woven uppers allow airflow to keep feet drier. This minimizes friction and blister risk when temperatures climb.
Best Shoes for Walking All Day
If basic Vans just aren’t cutting it for your daily mileage, consider options actually engineered for walking such as:
Brooks Addiction Walker
With premier arch and heel support, these bring running shoe technology to an everyday walker. Great for overpronators.
New Balance 928v3
The 928's durable Rollbar stabilizes feet excellently over long distances. Wide sizes available.
Asics Gel-Tech Walker Neo
Gel cushioning absorbs shock while a roomy toe box prevents compression even after hours of wear.
Saucony Echelon Walker
PWRFOAM adds spring to each step and redistributes weight evenly across the sole for less aching.
Summary - Are Vans Good Walking Shoes?
Ultimately, while select rugged Vans models can work, most iconic silhouettes lack proper support and cushioning for extended walking. Wearing them all day long term risks developing pain or foot problems.
Investing in designated walking or running shoes engineered for motion control, shock absorption and breathability protects joints. But Vans still make fine sneakers for lighter activities or styling casual looks.
FAQs
Can I walk long distances in any Vans?
No, most basic Vans lack proper arch support, cushioning or shock absorption for extended walking. Opt for rugged styles like UltraRange or ComfyCush specifically made for activity if choosing Vans.
What risks are there from walking all day in flat shoes?
Logging multiple miles in unsupportive shoes can lead to joint pain, sore feet, shin splints, knee/back issues, even compressed nerves or stress fractures over time from impact.
Will sizing up make casual Vans okay for walking?
Potentially, sizing up allows you to add your own cushioned insoles without squeezing toes. But for longest mileage, athletic walking shoes better realign skeletal structure and absorb shock.
What features should good walking shoes have?
Sturdy arch support, ample shock absorbing midsoles, breathable uppers to prevent blisters, roomy toe boxes, slip-resistant and well-lugged soles to maintain traction through extended wear and changing terrain.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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