Is It Bad to Wear Hiking Shoes on Pavement?

Hiking shoes are designed to be worn on trails and other outdoor surfaces and offer superior traction, cushioning, and stability compared to regular shoes. That being said, many people wonder if it is bad to wear hiking shoes on pavement.

The short answer is that it is not necessarily bad to wear hiking shoes on pavement. The outsoles of most hiking shoes are designed to provide traction in a variety of terrain conditions, which makes them suitable for pavement as well. However, wearing hiking shoes on pavement can lead to accelerated wear-and-tear over time.

Hiking shoes are made with durable materials such as rubber or synthetic compounds that are designed to provide grip on uneven surfaces. This grip is great for trails but can be too aggressive for smooth surfaces like pavements. As a result, the soles of the hiking shoe may wear away faster when used on pavement.

In addition, the cushioning in a hiking shoe may be too much for the relatively even surface of asphalt or concrete. The extra cushioning could lead to discomfort while walking or running on pavements.

Conclusion:
It is not necessarily bad to wear hiking shoes on pavement; however, it can lead to accelerated wear-and-tear over time and the cushioned soles may cause discomfort while walking or running. Therefore, it is recommended that you choose shoes specifically designed for use on pavements when engaging in activities such as running or walking long distances.

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Samantha Mckinney