Shoes are one of the essentials of runners. The runners have to choose the best running shoes among the available ones in the market and often they come across the Huaraches shoes. So, Are Huaraches running shoes?
Huaraches shoes are mainly for outerwear whose distinctive feature lies in the sole and straps. The straps of a Huaraches shoe generally pass over the instep of the shoe and around the ankle. These originated from the 90’s traditional Mexican Huaraches.
The Huaraches can be used as “running shoes” but to a limited extent and should be worn only by amateur-level runners. There are some differences that are evident in huarache’s shoes and the area of differences are in design and construction. Let’s get into the details of Huaraches shoes…
Are huaraches good running shoes?
Some prefer and consider “Huaraches” as running shoes. If we really want to know whether are huaraches good for running or not, first we have to know the distinctive qualities of “running shoes” and then have to compare and analyze if those are present in Huaraches shoes or not.
So, let’s take a look at the description and comparisons below and decide whether Huaraches can be considered as “running” shoes or not…
Flexible at the right places
The running shoes tend to be flexible at the right places and this flexibility is a must feature for the runners. When runners run with the shoes on, some places of the feet require more flexibility than the other parts. This advantage is present in the “Huaraches” shoes as they stretch after one or two times of wear.
Better cushioning
In general, cushioning means something extra soft outside which works as the protector of the things inside. While running, the runners come through different obstacles and the running shoes must have better cushioning. The Huaraches air shoes have an adequate level of cushioning for running.
Stability
The stability of running shoes is necessary because the motion needs to be controlled while the runners are running. The Huaraches shoes are capable of providing stability or motion control.
Perfect stiffness
Stiffness in the perfect places is a must in the case of running shoes. The Huaraches shoes also provide stiffness where necessary because of the straps which are around the ankle and over the instep.
Breathability
Running while wearing “tight hugged” shoes produce comparatively more sweat and that’s why the feet require more air. That’s why breathability is one of the distinct features of running shoes and this is also present to a limited extent in Huaraches shoes.
There are some criticisms that hinder the way “Huaraches” shoes are recognized as running shoes by professional athletes or runners. They are:
Bullier than usual running shoes
The running shoes need to be lightweight yet perfectly hugged to the feet. But the Huaraches air shoes of different brands are bulkier than the regular running shoes because of their sole and straps and fabric used.
Heel
Regular running shoes have to have the quality to absorb four times of body’s weight while running while being perfectly fit. But the Huaraches shoes don’t possess the quality appropriately which is why they can’t be used by professional runners for their functional purposes.
Outdated Tech
Even if the Huaraches shoes are still popular among sneaker lovers, the tech, design, and construction style of Huaraches shoes have become outdated. So, the modern runners have other choices better than the Huaraches.
Durability issue
If the Huaraches shoes are used for the running purpose by the professional runners for a longer period of time, the runners face durability issues along with other problems.
What are Huaraches used for?
Huaraches are one kind of open-type footwear that is used outdoors. The shoes are tightly fitted at first and have a certain process( Soaked in water for 1 or 2 hours and then set under the sun while keeping trying for a better fit until they are completely dried) for the perfect fit.
However, there are some certain reasons or needs for those the Huaraches shoes are used for. Some of them are being mentioned below:
Comfortable sneaker
The Huaraches shoes are comfortable enough to be used in our day-to-day life from early morning jogging to fashionable wear.
Protection of feet
People have to go outside randomly and sometimes have to face random and unexpected weather from which they need to protect their feet. The Huaraches shoes come in handy while trying to find protection for the feet.
Perfect fitting
The Huaraches shoes fit perfectly with the feet after one or two times of wearing as the straps stretch over time.
Functional shoe
The Huaraches shoes can be used for functional purposes at the amateur level as they have layered midsoles, mixed material uppers. But have to be cautious and should not be used for pro-level functional purposes.
lifestyle
The Huaraches shoes most often come in classical models and are an indication of the golden age of sneaker innovation. So, some people just wear them as a part of their lifestyle.
FAQ
Still have some questions in mind? Then have a look at the section below.
What sport are Huaraches for?
Huaraches are shoes used as outdoor footwear. They have layered midsoles and mixed material uppers which provide enough functionality for being used as sportswear. The Huaraches are used for “Basketball” mainly. Now, basketball players are able to wear fashionable yet functional shoes but also be aware of not using them for heavy purposes.
Can you work out in Nike Huaraches?
You can definitely warm up in Nike Huaraches but can not work out heavily. Because the Huaraches are not just a fit for this. You had better wear shoes which are made for the workout purpose e.g. Nike Free X Metcon 2, Nike Metcon 6, etc.
Are Huaraches good walking shoes?
Huaraches shoes are perfect for light jogging or warm-up activities. The sole which along with the straps around the ankle is capable of making a perfect fit. Yeah, the shoes are comfortable enough to wear all day but yet you can choose better shoes if you want them for walking purposes.
Is it good to run in Huaraches?
If you are going to run for some time or just want to jog lightly, you can surely go in the Huaraches shoes. But keep in mind that the Huaraches are not made exactly for the running objective. So, even if you find them comfortable for running, you had better choose a designated shoe for running.
Why are they called Huaraches?
There is a term in the Purépecha language which is “kwarachi”. From this term, the word “Huaraches’ ‘ came into existence and in English, the term means “sandals”.
The main idea or core design of present Huaraches shoes originated from traditional Mexican Huaraches which were used by the farmers and traditional folks.
Conclusion
So, are Huaraches running shoes?”
Hope the aforementioned reasons and points are capable of providing sufficient information to clear up all doubts regarding the question.
Runners keep running towards their goals and ambitions. In that sense, each and every one of us is a runner. But by “runners”, we most often refer to the athletes and people who do jogging as their hobby. And for them, having a perfect pair of running shoes is a must.
For the people who see “running” as one of their hobbies and for the amateur level of athletes, a pair of Huaraches shoes can be one of the best choices and the reasons are well explained in the above.
Read More:
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References:
https://www.heddels.com/2018/07/the-untold-story-of-huaraches-mexicos-native-sandal/