5 Best Running Shoes For Achilles Tendonitis

Finding the best running shoe if you have Achilles tendinitis is a priority. If your tendon is irritated, regular running shoes could be the main culprit for getting it worse.

Achilles tendinitis is an injury generated by excessive use of the Achilles tendon. The Achilles is the longest tendon in the body. You'll normally feel mild pain or a dull, sharp sensation when you're injured, making it difficult to walk or move around.

The best running shoes for Achilles tendonitis should help you recover from injuries, featuring a heel-to-toe drop, supportive cushion, and excellent ankle support. For people with overpronation, a good running shoe with enough stability is a great option.

This article will find out the best shoes for Achilles Tendonitis to help you choose the perfect shoe to help prevent and assist in recovering Achilles tendinitis.

5 Best Shoes For Achilles Tendonitis

Asics Gel-Cumulus 23

One of the best running shoes for Achilles tendinitis is the Asics Gel-Cumulus 23 (Check pricing at Amazon). The shoe's current version has been remodeled for a more lightweight feel, extra cushioning, and a natural turn from heel to toe.

ASICS Men's Gel-Cumulus 22 Running Shoes, 10, White/Black

For people with Achilles tendinitis, the guidance line layer at the shoe's tread keeps the foot aligned for more comfort and efficiency as you run. This strip, along with the solid heel cup that cradles the heel and ankle, holds it firmly and supports the Achilles area.

ASICS Women's Gel-Resolution 8 Clay Tennis Shoes, 10, Peacoat/Rose Gold

The Cumulus 23 features a high of 10mm heel-to-toe drop to lessen the stress on the Achilles. The heel's shock-absorbing gel pad and the front sole's springy gel keep your feet from excessive shock from each stride.

Cumulus 23 also includes a soft upper for a cozy feel when you place your feet in the shoes. A wider toe box provides a bigger space for different foot types. Lastly, the shoe's new layer of EVA foam is added directly under the insert to keep your feet comfortable while running.

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 (Check Amazon for price & selection) is lightweight and has a soft cushioning, perfect if you're looking for supportive and comfortable running shoes for the Achilles tendon. 

Brooks Women's Adrenaline GTS 21, Black/Raspberry, 8.5 Medium

The 12mm heel-to-toe drop is what makes the Adrenaline GTS 21 versatile, as most shoes can't maintain the proper position of your Achilles tendon while running.

Brooks Men's Adrenaline GTS 21 Running Shoe, Navy/Red Clay/Gray, 9.5

The shoe's arch is equipped for those with low to flat arches. The seamless mesh upper makes this shoe feel lighter. The mesh is breathable but less likely to secure your foot compared to other models.

The GTS 21 also has guide rails that provide only as much comfort and support as you need. This feature gives it better stability and cushioning in the midsole.

Comfort and stability are crucial as they prevent your Achilles tendon from getting stressed with each step.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 17

If you're looking for a highly supportive yet lightweight running shoe, the Mizuno Wave Inspire 17 (Compare price & selection) is an excellent choice to help with Achilles tendinitis.

Mizuno Women's Wave Inspire 17 Running Shoe, India Ink, 8.5

Its shock-absorbing midsole protects your joints and tendons while providing enough stability for runners with flat arches, thanks to its lightweight feature. The wave plate gives you that responsive feel.

Mizuno Men's Wave Inspire 17 Running Shoe, India Ink, 11

The sole is extremely durable and compensates within the heel and the toe. This feature eliminates the need for your Achilles tendon to work excessively during the higher swing of your stride.

The only drawback of Inspire 17 is the exterior area near the saddle. The shoe encourages a particular kind of stride that may cause stress in a certain area, which isn't very enduring as a result. Overall, the rubber sole, toe, and back of the shoe are all pretty long-lasting.

Saucony Grid Omni Walking Shoe

The Saucony Grid Omni Walking Shoe is one of the best walking shoes for Achilles tendinitis for its quality and comfortability. This shoe is ideal for people with flat or wide feet due to the heels' great cushioning and stability, and it's also unisex.

Saucony womens Grid Omni Walker Walking Shoe, White/Silver, 5.5 Wide US

The Grid Omni is an excellent walking shoe with all the benefits of running and other features required to manage plantar fasciitis problems. People suffering from plantar fasciitis will love this shoe's exceptional support for the foot. 

Saucony Men's Grid Omni Walker Walking Shoe, White/Silver,14 M

Grid Omni is made of synthetic and leather design. Therefore, it's light and can be used for a variety of situations. The premium sock liner improves comfort and cushioning in all the appropriate places.

The upper part features a plush full-grain leather for aesthetics and a conventional lace-up that provides an adjustable fit. The breathable mesh outlines the collar and tongue to keep you cooled at all times.

Skechers Max Cushioning Running Shoe

The Skechers Max Cushioning Running Shoes are made from quality leather and soft mesh. These materials make it easy to walk easily, provide the most comfortable comfort for the heel, and promote excellent arch support.

Skechers Women's MAX Cushioning Elite Sneaker, Purple/Pink, 9 Medium US

They look aesthetically pleasing and can also be worn for sports and physical activities for extended periods. 

Skechers Men's Max Cushioning Premier Vantage-Performance Walking & Running Shoe Sneaker, Black/Charcoal, 12

This running/walking shoe is one of the best sneakers for Achilles tendinitis, especially for overweight people, thanks to the generous cushion for a comfortable feel and good support.

Sport Shape-Ups help relieve pain in your back, knees, legs, and Achilles tendon while walking. Though, some people may find it a little over-cushioned due to the high sole. 

What Causes Achilles Tendonitis?

Achilles Tendonitis is prevalent in athletes, runners, and those who play court-based activities. The rapid acceleration and swift direction shifts required in these sports set maximum strain to the Achilles tendon.

One way to prevent the pain from developing is to ensure that your training regime is fully planned, so your body can familiarize specific demands of the activity. 

Though, only particularly strenuous physical activity is the trigger. For example, wearing high heel shoes or inherited conformation problems like flat feet and fallen arches can lead to tendonitis.

What Features To Consider When Buying Shoes for Achilles Tendinitis

There are a few points that you can consider when choosing the right shoe for Achilles Pain;

Arch Support 

Choose a shoe that offers good arch support as the arch directly connects to the Achilles tendonitis.

Runners are prone to overpronation, where the foot rolls more than 15% inwards, causing tightness and stress to the muscles, eventually leading to Achilles tendinitis. Therefore, semi-curved or straight shoes are ideal for long-lasting use. Shoes with firm midsoles also help prevent pronation.

For people with underpronation, a comfortable shoe with great cushioning should be the best.

Cushioning 

The footbed, heel, and midsole should have good cushioning for excellent shock absorption and reduce the tension on your Achilles tendons.

Shoes with the best heel cushion protect your heels and remove the pressure from sharp movements on your heels, particularly when running or doing sports. 

This is quite a significant consideration if you have Achilles tendinitis after running. Some shoes come with Gel cushioning, while others opt for foam or air cushioning. Most shoes made for Achilles tendinitis are intended to maximize shock absorption and accommodate a comfortable and stable experience.

Heel Height

The ideal height for shoes designed for Achilles tendonitis should not be too low or high. It should provide support and comfort for easy movement and avoid bad movements simultaneously.

According to research, shoes with the proper heel height can reduce signs of Achilles tendonitis. Low-heeled running shoes can worsen the condition. In situations like these, look for shoes with some height until your tendons start improving. 

The height heel should be around 8mm+. However, low-heel drops could also work well for some patients.

Fit

Shoes that help reduce the stress on the tendon are best for foot problems related to your Achilles tendonitis. Hence, it would be best to purchase a pair that offers room without compromising on fit and support. These shoes will also avoid undesired rear-foot motion

Your shoes should have ample space to accommodate problems such as foot alignment or protect your feet while wearing the shoes.

Look for shoes that are wide in the toe box and are spacious enough to accommodate any orthotic prescribed by your physician or doctor. If your shoe doesn't properly fit, it might worsen your Achilles tendinitis.

Comfort

Lastly, what matters most regarding shoes is their comfort, especially for those suffering from Achilles Tendinitis. The ideal shoes Achilles Tendinitis should decrease at least three times the body mass. Once your Achilles tendon starts troubling after running, it might indicate a new pair of shoes.

It should offer maximum protection for foot movements while keeping a healthy flow between toe-off and heel-strike. Your daily activities might negatively impact the sensitivity or weakness of your Achilles tendon if you wear uncomfortable shoes. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes Achilles tendinitis?

Achilles tendinitis occurs due to repetitive activities that involve the Achilles tendon. The tendon functions when doing some exercise or simple movements such as jumping, running, or walking. Once the tendons are over-stressed, they can become irritated and cause Achilles tendonitis.

My shoes hurt the skin over the Achilles tendon; what should I do?

You can easily rub the area with sandpaper to smooth it out and apply mustard or nut oil to make it smoother. Try wearing double socks to lessen the friction between the skin and your footwear.

Do arch supports improve Achilles tendinitis?

Yes. Once the arch of the feet is not properly supported, it can lead to Achilles injuries and harm your tendon. Experts recommend looking for shoes that offer excellent arch support.

How do you prevent Achilles tendon?

Though stretching exercises are recommended for the Achilles tendon, there are many ways to stop this problem. Ensure you're investing in a decent pair of shoes so you'll prevent yourself from getting injury or pain.

How to use a massage gun for Achilles tendonitis?

Kitma Nitro Percussion Massage Gun for Athletes - Deep Tissue Muscle Message Guns with 50mm Brushless Motor & 5 Speeds, Neck Back Foot Body Pain Relief, Gift for Men

Kitma Nitro Massage Gun

Best Running Shoes for Men & Women with Achilles Tendonitis, Final Thoughts...

Achilles tendinitis is a distressing problem that a lot of athletes endure. It can occur in two kinds, one affecting the middle of your Achilles tendon and the other where the tendon adheres to your heel, where the pain originated.

Many people find alternative pain-relieving solutions since there's no cure for Achilles tendonitis; one of these solutions is a comfortable and supportive shoe. Whether you're walking, running, or wearing it at work, investing in quality shoes with the proper amount of cushioning, support, stability, and comfort can help improve your condition.

Shoe Choices by Activity for Men with Achilles Tendonitis

Find what your were looking for?
Recent  Popular Articles
About Us
At PediDelight, we offer useful, time-saving information and some buying guides for online searchers and shoppers. 

We do research so that you don't have to. If you have a question about shoes or socks or anything related to your feet and we don't have an answer. Connect with us, so that we can provide the best resource for you!

We work hard to sift through thousands of product and brand websites, reach out to products and brands for answers that aren't available on their website. 

We read and collect honest product reviews and feedback so that we can be a one-stop shop for all the answers that you are looking for!

Pedi Delight!

We are all about feet.  Happy feet to be exact.  If you are looking for answers to questions about your foot joy, you've come to  the right place.

We talk about all things that cover your feet, like socks and shoes.  We answer all the questions you've ever asked related to your feet!
Visit Our Home Page

Affiliate Disclosure

PediDelight is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. 

We also participate in other affiliate programs which compensate us for referring traffic.

Shop For Birkenstocks
linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram