With cushioned shoes, the sole slows the rate at which the body impacts the ground, making it more comfortable. However, the force is the same. The energy that shoots up your leg is about three times more in a cushioned shoe than if you're barefoot.

Soft soles of shoes might also impact balance. As people age, their feet become less sensitive. If your feet can't sense what is going on on the ground, you may become more vulnerable to falls.