Difference of Mens & Womens Running Shoes | Rebel Sport (2024)


Can men run in women's running shoes? (and vice versa)

Technically - yes. But usually, this isn’t recommended. As we discussed above, there are key physical differences between men and women that impact the design of gendered shoes. Because of this, if a man tries to wear a woman’s shoe, it probably won’t fit well. Wearing a poor fitting can result in a bunch of issues, which we have covered below. If you do experience any of the below issues and they are significantly affecting your life, we highly recommend reaching out to a podiatrist or your GP for help.

In saying that, we understand that this won’t be the case for everybody. Some people might not experience such issues at all. However, it is still worth being aware of before going for a run in shoes that don’t fit and then paying the price later.

Blisters & calluses

If a man tries to squeeze into a women’s running shoe that has a more narrow fit, it may result in rubbing and blisters. You can also get blisters from wearing a women’s shoe that is not designed for your level of pronation. A similar thing may happen if a woman tries to wear men's shoes.

On the other hand, if a woman tries to wear a man’s running shoe, she may find that it is too wide for her foot. As a result, a woman may develop calluses.

Foot injury

A poor-fitting shoe can result in injury and muscle pain. For instance, if a woman is trying to run in a shoe designed for men, it will likely be too wide and lack support. This could lead to arch pain or even Achilles tendonitis. Aside from muscular issues, you may also face issues like ingrown toenails or joint inflammation.

Extreme wear of the shoe

Women's shoes tend to have extra padding and foam support. This is because women generally weigh a little lighter than men. If a man on the heavier side tries to wear a woman's shoe, they risk damaging the shoe's support. When this support is ruined, the feet will no longer be protected from damage. As a result, the wearer may become more prone to shin splints, plantar fasciitis, tendonitis and more.

Slower running pace

If a shoe doesn’t fit right, chances are it is going to be pretty uncomfortable. An ill-fitting shoe can cause your stride to become affected, leading to you needing to run differently. If your stride is affected, you may notice your running pace decrease.

If you are a woman trying to run in a men's shoe, you may find it too big. This could lead to you squeezing your toes to keep the shoe on. Alternatively, if you are a man trying to run in a women’s shoe, you may just find them too tight and uncomfortable to run at your optimum pace.

Difference of Mens & Womens Running Shoes | Rebel Sport (2024)

FAQs

Difference of Mens & Womens Running Shoes | Rebel Sport? ›

Some people assume that a men's shoe is just a larger version of a women's shoe - but this isn't the case. Typically, women's shoes are wider at the forefoot and narrower at the heel. Whereas shoes for men are wider from heel to toe.

Can a woman wear men's running shoes? ›

There are a few key differences between men and women's running shoes that are important to remember when women are looking to buy a new pair of trainers. Even when women have the same length foot as a man, they still should not be tempted to buy a male shoe as a woman's foot is more likely to have a narrower heel.

Does gender matter for running shoes? ›

One: Women's lasts are generally narrower in the heel than men's or gender-neutral lasts, because women tend to have narrower heels. Two: Women's lasts generally have more support around the midfoot, or arch, because ladies generally have higher arches than men.

Can you tell the difference between mens and womens shoes? ›

One difference between men's and women's shoes that's easy to spot is style. While men's shoes are generally flat-soled, with only a one or two inch platform heel added to dress shoes, women's shoes often have higher heels, both for formal and casual wear.

Is there a difference between men's and women's Hoka? ›

Some of our shoes are now unisex but the main difference between men's and women's models are that a standard men's fit is wider (D) than a women's (B) – there's also different colour ways. We also offer personalised sizing recommendations, please click here for more information.

How can you tell the difference between male and female running shoes? ›

The biggest difference between men's and women's feet is the shape. Some people assume that a men's shoe is just a larger version of a women's shoe - but this isn't the case. Typically, women's shoes are wider at the forefoot and narrower at the heel. Whereas shoes for men are wider from heel to toe.

Can I buy women's running shoes as a man? ›

Yes, it is possible to wear women-specific running shoes being a man, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind. We understand that bright, attractive colors, usually found only in women's shoes, can make people want to buy them just for their beautiful look.

What is the difference between male and female runners? ›

Success in distance running and sprinting is determined largely by aerobic capacity and muscular strength, respectively. Because men possess a larger aerobic capacity and greater muscular strength, the gap in running performances between men and women is unlikely to narrow naturally.

Is it OK for a man to wear women's shoes? ›

Men wearing women's shoes is no longer a taboo, but rather a bold statement of self-expression and individuality.

Is there a difference between men's and women's Asics? ›

ASICS women's shoes are shaped differently and feature a narrower last. A gender-specific last dramatically improves fit for female runners and prevents problems like heel slippage. Women tend to be lighter than men.

Can I wear men's shoes as a woman? ›

Of course, women can wear men's boots! The only thing you need to consider is sizing because, as we all know, men's sizes are larger than women's equivalent - i.e. a men's size 8 is larger than a women's size 8. Keep reading to find out how to select the right size.

Do mens shoes run wider than women's? ›

Men's shoes tend to be cut a little bit wider because men tend to have slightly wider feet, are taller, and are a little bit heavier than women on average. This can be helpful for women with wide feet who cannot get the right fit in women's shoes.

What does GS mean in shoes? ›

GS means "Grade School" and are shoes most likely to fit a grade-schooler. Remember, the GS size is not a specific shoe size but a range of sizes likely to fit grade school students. While GS stands for "Grade School," the shoes are not limited to grade schoolers, as adults can also wear them.

Why are Hokas so popular right now? ›

It is focused on technology-driven shoes with a cushioned midsole, prioritising comfort and speed across its silhouettes, designed for running down steep mountains. Now, the brand has expanded its cultural appeal beyond its initial core running fanbase thanks to a carefully curated list of collaborations.

Why do people like Hoka shoes so much? ›

Every pair has a curved "meta-rocker" in its sole, designed to propel you forward comfortably. This unique, first-of-its-kind design makes it feel like you're walking (or running) on literal air, one of many reasons why both avid and novice fitness enthusiasts have gravitated toward the shoe.

Why do doctors recommend Hoka shoes? ›

“I recommend Hokas due to their superior cushioning, stability, and their rocker-like bottom all combined in a lightweight shoe,” Parthasarathy says.

Can I buy mens sneakers as a woman? ›

Sizing Conversion: Men's and women's shoe sizes differ. Typically, you'll need to go down 1.5 to 2 sizes when selecting men's shoes to ensure a proper fit. Style Preferences: While the lines are blurring, men's shoes tend to have a more classic or rugged aesthetic. Consider if the style aligns with your personal taste.

What size is a men's 10 in women's? ›

Womens To Mens Shoes Size Conversion Chart
Women'sMen's/YouthUK
10.58.58
1198.5
11.59.59
12109.5
17 more rows

How to convert men's shoe size to women's? ›

Get the lowdown on men's vs women's shoe size. Generally speaking, there's a 1.5-size difference in length between women and men shoes (ladies, if you're a size 8.5, you'd be a size 7 in men's shoes) but the width size remains the same (so if you're a women's D, you're also a men's D).

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