Outdoor Sports Shoes

Outdoor Sports Shoes: Enhancing Performance and Comfort

There is an old saying “If the shoe fits, wear it”, however, that’s not right completely if seen from a practical angle. Even if a shoe fits properly, there are some factors too that you should consider while purchasing it, and one such thing is - purpose. 

Let’s understand this with an example. Suppose you have to go hiking and you buy any random shoe that fits well and feels comfortable too. How do you think it will impact your hiking? If the shoes are not designed for hiking, they might leave you hobbling around in pain for hours and of course with sore feet. That’s why buying the right outdoor sports shoes, depending on your needs, is crucial. 

Introduction to Outdoor Sports Shoes

In case you are unable to trace the difference between different types of shoes, you might find the proper meaning of outdoor sports shoes useful. So, here it is: A pair of outdoor sports shoes is nothing fancy but a shoe that is designed in a way that your feet don't hurt while indulging in outdoor sports or activities. Now, it could be any sport; cricket, tennis, badminton, golf, and a lot more. 

Does that mean all outdoor sports shoes are the same? No, they are not. Different activities or sports have put your feet under different conditions. Hence, the purpose of shoes also keeps changing as per the activity. For example, hiking shoes are different from the shoes you may wear while playing cricket. 

Design Features for Performance Enhancement

Even though this topic will consist of very precise design-related aspects, we will only talk about three basic and most important design features. These innovations in the ages-old outdoor sports shoe designs play a vital role in improving athletic performance to a great length. Let’s check them out: 

Lightweight construction 

Nowadays, lightweight outdoor sports shoes are not just in trend, but they are considered great for the purpose. We can say that lightweight construction is now one of the topmost parameters to judge a pair of sports shoes. But why is it so? 
 

• Runners are now preferring lightweight shoes as they improve responsiveness and agility. 
• Shoes with lightweight construction are claimed to reduce fatigue. 
• The light weight of shoes allows an athlete to push his/her limit. 
• They also provide a better feeling of comfort.
   

Which design options make a shoe lightweight? 

Mesh

Manufacturers are now using materials like breathable mesh uppers to lessen the shoe weight. Additionally, mesh also offers better ventilation which keeps feet cool and dry as per the requirement. 
 

Minimalism
 

The lesser the designer elements, the lesser the weight would be. Minimalist outsole designs also reduce the overall shoe weight. Manufacturers place rubber pods on the outsole to balance traction and durability. As a result, athletes enjoy better flexibility and natural foot movement. This improves their performance and reduces the risk of injury. 
 

Responsive cushioning

Today, manufacturers have adhered to advanced cushioning systems that provide an airy feel to outdoor sports shoes. These technologies are engineered to improve conventional padding. A responsive cushioning system compresses and quickly gets back into its shape in real time at a great pace. Here’s everything that it helps with: 
 

• Responsive cushioning can optimize propulsion and reduce fatigue. 
• This cushioning absorbs shock and propels an athlete forward. Because, with every footstrike, athletes can feel a noticeable bounce back. 
• It provides an overall smooth and better experience.
   

We can say that this technology has proved to be a game-changer for athletes. 
 

Sock-like fit 

One very popular design that can be seen literally everywhere these days is “sock-fit shoes”. These outdoor sports shoes have sock-like constructions. These shoes contain one-piece uppers and they offer:

• A snug and supportive fit that feels like a second second to athletes
• They get wrapped around the foot in such a seamless way that athletes get a secure locked-in feel. 
• This design reduces slippage and irritation by eradicating bulky overlays and traditional seams.
• The sock-like structure provides a high degree of comfort and improves performance.
• They also eliminate the risk of blisters which puts no stress on athletes. 

Due to all of these amazing benefits, sock-like fit outdoor sports shoes are in trend. Athletes have been preferring them as a perfect supportive footwear option. 
 

Primary materials used in manufacturing outdoor sports shoes
 

A good-quality outdoor sports shoes may be made up of any of the following materials: 
 

• Vulcanized rubber
• Thermoplastic rubber
• Polyurethane (PU)
• Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) 
• Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) 
• Cotton
• Polyester
• Wool 
• Felt 
• Leather/Suede Leather
• PET
• Nylon

Apart from these materials which go directly into the making of insoles, midsoles, and the upper body of the shoe, there are certain metallic elements visible in the shoes. They can be metallic eyelets or buckles and components (for decorative purposes). Some outdoor sports shoes may also contain metallic components that are embedded in improvised structures such as metal heel supports, steel toe caps, and steel shanks. 

Here are some metals that are commonly used in shoe manufacturing: 

• Brass
• Steel 
• Aluminium

Difference between outdoor sports shoes and other shoes

In order to understand the difference between outdoor sports shoes we can see the different purposes they are used for. 

Sports shoes may vary in weight, material, and design. These variations are designed with a special motive of protecting the areas of feet that face maximum stress during a particular sport or activity.

Now, let's quickly check the types of shoes on the basis of their purpose: 

Running, training, and walking shoes

All of these fall in the same category. These shoes are used for hiking, jogging, and exercise walking.

Court sports shoes

These shoes are dedicated to the players of court sports like volleyball, basketball, and tennis. In these sports, feet keep moving forward, backward, and side-to-side very frequently. As a result, they get worn out early when used by regular players.

Field sport shoes

Sports like football/soccer and baseball are counted among field sports. The shoes worn during these sports are either studded or spiked. The formations of spike and stud vary from sport to sport.

Track and field sports shoes

These shoes are dedicated to runners. It is probably one outdoor sports shoe that comes in maximum models to suit the needs of runners and their training styles. 

Specialty sports shoes

These shoes are used while bicycling, aerobic dancing, or sports like golf. 

Outdoor sports shoes

Finally, the one category that we have been talking about for a long time - outdoor sports shoes are worn during recreational activities like hunting, fishing, and boating. 

Can outdoor sports shoes be used for various activities, or are they specialized for specific sports?

There is not a clear YES or No for this question. It clearly depends on two factors: 

• How frequently you are indulged in sports or outdoor activities
• Whether your feet have a health-related concern or not

How frequently you are indulged in sports or outdoor activities

In general, if you play a sport once a week, you do not necessarily have to wear a sport-specific shoe. Because your feet will be taking the extra stress for a very limited period. However, if you play a particular sport more than twice a week, we would recommend wearing sport-specific shoes. 

You might have a childhood memory of rocking on the same tried-and-tested sneakers for almost every sport and activity, be it running, hiking, or playing badminton. However, today, things are different. You no longer have that childhood ability to take it all in full swing. It is better to wear a sport-specific shoe to prevent injuries and pain. 

If you are struggling with a health-related concern in your legs or they just hurt badly every time you do a sport or an adventurous activity, consider it a sign. Your feet might be calling for help. They may not be able to withstand the sports without the proper cushioning and support that comes with the right kind of outdoor sports shoes. Your ankles may turn easily or you may have trouble with shin splints. In any of these cases, it is better to choose the right shoe. In fact, you should see an orthopedic doctor as well. 

These were some insights into outdoor sports shoes. In case you are planning to restock these shoes for your existing business, or planning to start a new venture, you have landed in the right space. At TradeIndia, we have many amazing manufacturers and wholesalers dealing in outdoor sports shoes. They are trusted and verified businessmen. Hence, you can do your own little research and purchase your stock of shoes without a doubt. 

How To Use Outdoor Sports Shoes

Even though there is no right way to use outdoor sports shoes, it is still better to know this trick - wear them in your casual routine. 

Suppose you have purchased new shoes to play cricket. The first time you wear them is your field, and they give you a blister. 

Yes, It can happen!

Hence, it is better to wear them in your daily routine 4-5 times. This is how it will help: 

• They will take the shape of your feet. 
• You will not suffer from sore feet on your main day or during a sport. 
• They will not leave blisters amid an outdoor activity or sport. 

Make sure you wear them for a decent duration in the initial days. Climb stairs if you can. The more you wear your new outdoor sports shoes, the better they will feel during outdoor activities.