Walking shoes are designed with the specific body mechanics and strike path of walking in mind. They are constructed to be more flexible through the ball of the foot to allow a greater range of motion through the roll of the forefoot. They also have greater arch support to protect where the force is heaviest on the foot. Running shoes, in contrast, have more cushioning in the heel–the point of impact–and less protection through the ball of the foot. The amount of heat generated in the running motion is greater, so running shoes also are made with a higher amount of mesh to keep feet cool during exercise.
Running shoes include shoes required for training, advanced running, road running, trail running, track running, and racing. The running shoe segment dominated the market in 2017, which can be attributed to daily usage of running shoes and availability of these shoes in a wide range of prices ranging from affordable athletic shoes to highly luxurious athletic shoes.
In most of the developed countries, the proportion of women athletes representing their respective nations at major sporting events is significant as compared to developing and underdeveloped countries. In addition, overall level of awareness about fitness among women is considerably high in advanced countries as compared to developing countries.
Moreover, footwear manufacturers are focusing on quality and cost effective athletic footwear which are durable and comfortable for the consumers. These advantages of athletic footwear are expected to bolster the market in near future. Likewise, adoption of latest 3-D printing technology by the shoe manufacturers in order to manufacture shoes in less time and with enhanced quality is the key factor for the growth of athletic footwear market.
The market offers a variety of footwear with options in color, design, and price to cater to the needs and purchasing abilities of individual customers. Sales expansion through online channels, innovative product launches, and attractive marketing and promotional strategies that are adopted by the companies have fueled the growth of the athletic footwear market size.
