It seems that the question should be changed to ‘Should You Run in Vans Shoes?’ You can actually run in any type of shoe.
You could even run barefoot if you believe your feet to be tough enough. So, the simple answer to the question is yes, you can run in Vans shoes.
However, should you run in Vans shoes? No, you should not run in Vans shoes.
Vans shoes became popular in the 1970’s as an essential part to a Skateboarders apparel. Today the shoes still target the same culture as well as related sports such as Snowboarding and BMX.
Skateboarders prefer to use Vans while performing their sport not only because of the heavy influence Vans has had on the culture of the sport, but also because of what the shoes do for their durability as a skater.
There are a variety of different types of Vans shoes that a skater can purchase, but no matter the Vans shoe, most skaters would agree that Vans shoes help keep their feet healthy when skating.
Having good treads on the bottom of the shoes, combined with a firm canvas, this makes for a shoe that is resistant to the wear and tear that comes with the skateboarding sport.
Resistant for skating, good for running?
Just because a Vans shoe is resistant falling apart during Skateboarding, is it a preferable shoe for running?
The problem with using Vans shoes as running shoes is that they just aren’t manufactured to be used as running shoes. This doesn’t mean they aren’t meant for an athlete, but just a different type of athlete.
With shoes designed specifically for running, there is additional science that goes into every aspect of the shoe to improve the running experience.
Running shoes focus on comfort and support in the sole so that a runner can endure long distances. In contrast, Vans shoes often have flatter soles and are stiffer in order to endure the wear and tear of skateboarding.
Many would find that running in Vans shoes is not comfortable and may leave them with sore feet or worse, shin splints.
Injury prevention and cost savings
Experts suggest that using a shoe specifically designed for the sport you are looking to participate in is the best way to prevent injuries from occurring. If you are going to play football you should wear cleats.
If you wear something other than cleats you risk slipping on the turf or grass. If you are going to play basketball, you should wear shoes with traction due to the sudden starting a stopping involved in the game. The same is true for the sport of running.
Not only will using shoes designed for running prevent injuries, this habit can also serve as a cost savings act.
Running shoes are made to endure a lot of running. In fact, many running shoes become more comfortable after a bit of use. Whereas, if you were to run in Vans shoes, their endurance may not match that of a running shoe if they are solely being used for running.
You may find yourself purchasing another pair much sooner and more often if you continue to run in Vans.
Check out: Are Vans Shoes Bad For Your Feet?