Most models are available in both men’s and women’s versions. However, women’s running shoes are not just smaller versions of men’s shoes. They differ mainly in their narrower upper and better fit for the female foot. The stack height of the midsole is often lower in women’s running shoes. Additionally, there are different sizes and color options. It’s the details that make the difference. Let’s take a look at what sets them apart.
1. Men’s vs. Women’s Sizing
The first and most obvious difference, of course, is the size range. Women’s shoes typically range from EU size 36 to EU size 42, while men’s shoes range from EU size 42 to EU size 50. However, there are exceptions to this rule. For example, you can find women’s running shoes in sizes larger than 42 and men’s shoes in sizes smaller than 42. However, the selection is usually very limited. Size 42 EU is a symbolic limit. Finding men’s shoes below this size and women’s shoes above it is challenging.
2. Different Colors for Men and Women
Some people argue that the differences between women’s and men’s running shoes are limited to color. In a sense, they are right. In most cases, different color versions are designed with one gender in mind. However, this is not an absolute rule; sometimes, shoes with identical color schemes for men and women appear on the market. This is particularly true of special editions of advanced running shoes for hard surfaces and trail running, as well as track spikes.
3. Women’s Running Shoes Are Narrower
The most noticeable difference is that women’s feet are smaller and narrower than men’s. Consequently, women’s running shoes are manufactured on a slightly narrower last. Women’s shoes are typically marked as width B, while men’s shoes are marked as width D. This means that, for two shoes of the same size, the women’s shoe will be slightly narrower by a few millimeters in the toe and heel areas.
When a woman with larger feet buys men’s shoes, the important question is whether the shoe is too wide. Does the foot “fly” to the sides, and does the shoe fit the foot well? If there is no excessive slack and the shoe fits well, it is safe to run in.
It is a little simpler for men, as men’s small feet are usually relatively narrow as well. Therefore, the smaller width of women’s shoes is not usually a problem for men. Men can easily fit into narrower women’s shoes. Nevertheless, a practical challenge is often color. It’s hard to find women’s shoes without shades of pink, purple, or lavender. Few men want to wear shoes that resemble women’s colors even slightly.
4. Different Midsole Heights
The stack height of men’s and women’s shoes often differs. Women’s shoes typically have a midsole that is one or two millimeters lower than men’s shoes. For example, this difference is evident in some running shoes from Asics and Hoka. I am convinced that similar differences exist among other shoe producers as well.
Women’s shoes have less foam, which means they have less cushioning than men’s shoes. However, considering that women are generally lighter than men, this feature seems tailored to each gender’s needs.
5. Differences in Drop
Incidentally, there are very rarely noticeable differences in the drop, i.e., the difference in height between the heel and the toes. Ninety-nine percent of running shoes have the same drop for both women and men. However, a very small percentage of shoes have a different drop for each sex. If different, women’s running shoes are usually 2–3 millimeters higher. For instance, the drop is 10 mm in men’s shoes and 13 mm in women’s.
This design feature accommodates women who regularly wear high heels and have tight Achilles tendons. The higher heel position makes the Achilles tendon less prone to stretching and increases safety. This is not essential, though, and most women do not pay attention to it, running in shoes with the same drop as men.
Final Thoughts
In summary, several significant differences can be identified when analyzing women’s running shoes and their male counterparts. At first glance, the different styles are apparent. However, this is only the outer layer. The structural differences are much more important. Women’s running shoes are usually narrower. However, a shoe with the same insole length and EU size will be wider in the men’s version and narrower in the women’s version. Therefore, when choosing a size, it is important to consider not only the number but also the actual fit.
The most universal reference point is the insole length in centimeters. This is a stable parameter. When looking for an alternative from a different gender category, this value should be the determining factor. This is especially true when comparing women’s running shoes to their male counterparts.
