{"id":8980,"date":"2022-08-18T09:20:15","date_gmt":"2022-08-18T14:20:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/decideoutside.com\/?p=8980"},"modified":"2022-08-18T09:21:19","modified_gmt":"2022-08-18T14:21:19","slug":"is-it-ok-to-run-in-high-tops","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/decideoutside.com\/is-it-ok-to-run-in-high-tops\/","title":{"rendered":"Is It Ever Ok To Run In High Tops?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Finding the perfect pair of running shoes<\/strong> is a crucial and somewhat overwhelming task. Although size, functionality, and design are major deciding factors, people also consider the aesthetics of a shoe. That\u2019s where a fashion-focused runner may be left wondering: Is it ever OK to run in the forever trendy high-top sneaker?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Professional athletes and podiatrists agree that it is not advisable to run in high tops. The flat soles, bulkiness, and lack of arch support make high tops unsuitable for running. Rather invest in a pair of shoes specifically made for running- for better performance, comfort, and reduced risk of injury.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If they are labeled as \u2018sneakers\u2019 – and often make a presence in NBA games, <\/strong>why is it never okay to run in high tops? What is the difference between high tops and running shoes?<\/strong> Discover the importance of proper running shoes and why high tops don\u2019t make the cut.<\/p>\n\n\n

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What Are High Tops?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

High tops are popular street-style shoes that mostly come in the form of a lace-up sneaker<\/strong>. They are called “high tops” because, unlike regular shoes that stop just below the ankle, these sneakers extend above the ankle<\/strong>. With a wide variety of colors and designs, they are worn by males and females of all ages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The advent of high tops dates back to the early 1900s. They have continued to trend as the most iconic footwear throughout the decades<\/strong>. Chuck Taylor All-Stars<\/em> by Converse<\/em> are undoubtedly the most popular high tops of all time (popularized by American basketball star Chuck Taylor himself). (In fact if you want to read specifically about Converse and running, make sure and check out our article, here<\/a>)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Reasons Why High Tops Aren’t Ideal For Running<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you are going for a run for a few miles, you can definitely use just about any shoe, including high tops. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are looking for running shoes<\/em>, you should skip high-tops. Whether you are running competitively, leisurely, on the road, or on the trail: high tops will not allow you to put your best foot forward!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lack of Arch Support<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

High tops are flat shoes with very thin insoles. The flat heels and lack of cushioning may cause pain and discomfort because the arches of the feet are not aligned or supported during impact. There will be a greater strain on the feet, hips, knees, and back.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lack of Mobility<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

It may sound counterintuitive, but high tops will not benefit the ankles when it comes to running. Reaching just above the ankles, these shoes are too restrictive, preventing freedom of movement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In fact, some studies (like this one<\/a>) have demonstrated that immobilizing a joint over the long-term can cause muscle weakness.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

And this study<\/a> showed that athletes that taped their ankles and wore low-top shoes had the lowest frequency of injuries as compared to high tops. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

While ankle support is not proven to always be bad, it shouldn’t be chosen for athletic activity just because they look cool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Unnecessary Weight<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The thick rubber soles and canvas material make high tops significantly heavier than the average running shoe. This will increase resistance during running, which will hinder ease of movement and overall performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

High water-retaining<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As most high tops are made from cotton canvas, they will not be waterproof. That’s fine and normal for outdoor running, however, if you get that cotton canvas wet it’s going to stay wet for a long time. If you’re running long distances you want as little water to stay in the material as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Discomfort and Risk Of Injury<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The flat soles, lack of padding, heaviness, and restrictive movement can lead to frustration and discomfort. The constant and rapid movement while running in high tops may cause chafing, blisters or even Plantar Fasciitis (pain in the heel and arch of the foot).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The raised upper and very stiff design of high tops can be very restrictive – reducing mobility and natural movement. This increases the possibility of injury.<\/p>\n\n\n\n