Finding the perfect walking shoe wasn’t just a challenge - it was personal. Our founder, Stacey, struggled to find supportive walking shoes that truly met her needs. As someone passionate about foot health and comfort, she set out to design the Pace walking shoe, a shoe built to provide the stability, support, and structural comfort that so many women need. With a focus on cushioning, proper alignment, and a high heel-to-toe pitch to support foot mechanics, Pace is the answer for women who want to walk further, feel better, and move with confidence
Read on to find out about the differences between our fit-for-purpose walking shoe and so many other sneakers on the market that just don't step up!
Key features of our Pace fit-for-purpose walking shoe (vs running shoes which are often worn as walking shoes) ...
1. Sole and outsole: Stability over bounce
Pace walking shoes : Denser sole with flexibility under the forefoot, designed for a rocker motion that supports the natural heel-to-toe movement. A rocker sole is a fantastic design for those suffering from ailments such as arthritis or plantar fasciitis as the sole helps promote a smoother, more natural gait.
Running shoes: More flexible and "puffed up" for quick push-offs, with higher energy return for propulsion. Generally made with a very lightweight foam which is not durable or long lasting.
2. Cushioning: Balanced comfort without excess
Pace walking shoes: Moderate cushioning to absorb impact, but not too soft to ensure foot support and shoe structure.
Running shoes: More heel and forefoot cushioning (often a high stack and heel flare) to handle repeated high-impact landings. Not required when walking!
3. Heel-to-toe pitch: Elevated for foot health & comfort
Pace walking shoes: Designed with a higher heel-to-toe pitch to support women who experience Achilles tightness, ankle strain, ankle mobility issues or plantar fasciitis. This reduces stress on the Achilles and promotes a more natural, comfortable walking motion.
Typical walking shoes: Usually a low heel drop (0-8mm), which may not provide enough relief for those with Achilles or foot conditions.
Running shoes: Often a higher drop (8-12mm) to help with forward propulsion, but not necessarily designed for long-term foot health or long term wear.
4. Arch & mid foot support: Stability over speed
Pace walking shoes: More arch support and firmer midsoles to prevent overpronation and provide long term comfort. Insoles that support the shape and contours of a female foot.
Running shoes: Can have neutral or motion-control options but are often designed for lightweight speed rather than all day stability. Running shoes often have very flat insoles providing no underfoot structure or support.
5. Flexibility & motion control: Stability over agility
Pace walking shoes: Flexes at the forefoot for a smooth step but are denser than running shoes to prevent too much movement.
Running shoes: More overall flexibility, especially in the midfoot, to allow for quick changes in direction and pace.
6. Outsole grip & traction: Walking surface over multi terrain
Pace walking shoes: Durable, slip resistant rubber outsoles with grip designed for pavement and to keep you balanced and stable.
Running shoes: Can be road-specific (smooth) or trail-specific (deep lugs for grip) so often not fit-for-purpose, or slip resistant.
7. Upper & breathability: Comfort over performance
Pace walking shoes: More structured upper with good breathability but not overly tight, as walkers don’t need as much lockdown. Tongue gusset is attached to the upper with stretch fabric to avoid movement.
Running shoes: Often lightweight mesh with snugger fit to keep feet from sliding at high speeds.
8. Durability: Built for longevity, not speed
Pace walking shoes: Built to last with premium, durable materials and a denser sole for support and durability.
Running shoes: Made with lightweight foam which is is filled with air to reduce weight, but this makes it less durable as the air pockets collapse over time, leading to faster wear and loss of support.
Our Pace walking shoe is launching in April 2025! Join up to our newsletter here to be the first with the news.
