Can Jordans be Used for Running?

A pair of blue and white Jordan 1 Highs featuring black laces, tongues, and Swooshes down the sides.
Credit: Original image from END. | Shoes made by Nike | Edited by RealSport101

A pair of blue and white Jordan 1 Highs featuring black laces, tongues, and Swooshes down the sides.
Credit: Original image from END. | Shoes made by Nike | Edited by RealSport101

If you're into sneakers and love staying active, you might have wondered if Jordans can be used for running.

You're in the right place, as this guide breaks down the pros and cons of lacing up your favorite Air Jordans for cardio sessions, helping you decide if they're the right fit for your training.

Are They Too Heavy?

Jordans, particularly models like the Flyknit Elevation 23, are designed with lighter materials, such as a full fabric upper, making them weigh very little compared to rival sneakers. While this is a reduction from heavier, traditional shoes, it's still significantly heavier compared to specialized running shoes. For instance, the Brooks Revel 7 running shoe weighs just about 0.57 pounds, which is much lighter and better suited for speed than the majority of Jordan models.

This is important because a 2016 study on shoe weight found that for every 3.5 ounces added to a shoe, runners could experience a 1% decrease in speed. This suggests that while Jordans may be comfortable for casual use or lifestyle wear, they may not be the best choice for running, as they could hinder performance compared to lighter running shoes designed for speed and efficiency.

So, while modern Jordans are stylish and relatively lightweight compared to older models like the original Jordan 1, they are still typically heavier than running shoes, potentially affecting your running speed.

How Comfortable Are Jordans for Running?

Jordans, like running shoes, are equipped with padding to protect your joints and absorb impact during movement. For example, the Nike Alphafly 3, a popular running shoe, features an Air Zoom unit in the midsole. Similarly, Jordans feature Air technology in almost all their shoes, as per the Air Jordan name, making them fairly comparable to most of Nike's running shoes.

Nike Air technology showcasing the underfoot bubble layout.
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Credit: From JD Sports
Nike Air technology showcasing the underfoot bubble layout.

Comfort and cushioning are important for running because they help reduce the shock on your joints. A 2018 study on basketball landings showed that regular-cushioned shoes generated significantly more tibial shock compared to highly-cushioned shoes, which explains why Jordan incorporates Air technology into their models. This cushioning is designed to absorb impact and provide comfort during high-impact activities like basketball.

While Jordans offer substantial cushioning and comfort, they are still primarily designed for basketball and lifestyle wear, not running. The comfort level for running will depend on individual preferences, but compared to shoes specifically designed for running, Jordans may not provide the same level of performance or comfort over long distances.

What Kind of Support Do Jordans Provide?

Jordans provide significant ankle support, which is one of their key differences compared to running shoes. This added support is important for sports like basketball, where lateral movement and quick direction changes are common, which is why many Jordans are designed as high-tops. Even low-top models still include padding around the ankle for additional protection. While this padding can enhance stability, it can also restrict ankle movement and add extra weight, potentially affecting your performance when running.

In contrast, running shoes like the adidas 4DFWD 4 are designed specifically to optimize forward motion. They feature advanced midsole technology to maximize momentum, helping runners achieve their best times. This focus on efficient, natural movement makes running shoes less restrictive compared to Jordans, which prioritize stability and support for sports with more lateral and vertical movement.

An all-black adidas 4DFWD 4 made from a knitted material.
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Credit: adidas

In summary, Jordans offer excellent ankle support, making them ideal for sports like basketball, but this support may feel restrictive for running, where freedom of movement and lightness are more important. If you’re looking for a shoe specifically for running, a running shoe with a design focused on forward motion would likely provide better support for your needs.

Verdict: Can Jordans Be Used for Running?

The verdict is clear: while Jordans can technically be used for running, they are not the best option for serious runners or long-distance running. Jordans tend to be heavier than dedicated running shoes, which can affect your speed and endurance. Additionally, they don't provide the same level of support for forward motion as running shoes specifically designed for performance.

That being said, comfort is key, and if you feel motivated and comfortable in Jordans, they could still work for short runs or casual jogs. Ultimately, wearing a shoe that makes you feel good can help you stay motivated and perform better.

Where Jordans really shine, however, is in weight training. Their relatively flat soles and ankle support make them a great choice for exercises like squats and deadlifts, which require stability and protection for your feet and legs during heavy lifts. So while Jordans may not be ideal for running, they can be an excellent option for strength training workouts.