I feel like either approach could be triggered with something like a double-tap on the forward key so you wouldn't have to add a whole new keybind, first thing that comes to mind is like how minecraft has that option. I play mostly with controller if a game is compatible for it so I get the...
If deciding not to give players control of sprinting whenever they want was an intentional design, I'd at least like to be able to buy an item that gives that control (still using up stamina of course). Whether it'd be achievable for early game or late game, it would be a nice advantage to have...