Achilles tendonitis is a painful condition that can significantly disrupt your training and is one of the most common injuries suffered by strike runners.
The shoes you use to run in have a significant impact on your risk of developing Achilles tendonitis. In addition to making the problem worse, wearing the wrong shoes also increases your risk of injuring yourself.
That's why it's crucial to equip yourself with the best running shoes for Achilles tendonitis, whether to help you get back into running after an injury or to keep you from getting hurt again.
If you've ever suffered an Achilles tendon injury, you'll want to read this article because it will tell you which running shoes are ideal for you. We'll also go over what to look for in a good pair of shoes to meet your specific needs.
First, though, let's define Achilles tendinitis and talk about how it can hinder your workouts.
Achilles tendinitis: What Is It?
An injury to the Achilles tendon, a fibrous band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the calf muscles, is known as Achilles tendonitis.
Pain, stiffness, and occasionally swelling in the heel and/or lower calf are all symptoms of tendonitis.
Achilles tendonitis can be either insertional (affecting the attachment of the tendon to the heel) or non-insertional (affecting the tendon's middle).
Overuse of the tendon is typically the root cause of the injury. This is possible if your training load is suddenly increased.
Another cause is improper running technique or lack of a warm-up.
This kind of injury is also more likely to happen to us as we get older.
Check out The 10 Best Achilles Stretches For Runners for related reading.
Do Achilles Tendon Injuries Prevent Running?
Any time you sustain a running-related injury, you should consult a doctor.
Rest, as well as ice, compression, and elevation, are standard treatments for muscle and joint pain.
After getting back on your feet, it's crucial to take precautions to ensure the issue doesn't get any worse or return.
Making sure your running shoes aren't making things worse is one of them.
What to Look for in the Ideal Running Shoes when Suffering from Achilles Tendonitis
In order to alleviate pain and stop further damage to the Achilles tendon, you need the best running shoes for Achilles tendonitis.
If only they had:
Insane Heel-to-Toe Slope
Heel-to-toe drop describes the vertical distance between the forefoot and the heel of a given shoe.
Achilles tendonitis sufferers should wear shoes with a large heel-to-toe drop to reduce stress on the afflicted tendon. As a result, you may experience less discomfort while running.
Excellent Help
In order to prevent further damage to your Achilles tendon, you should invest in a pair of slightly rigid running shoes.
If Necessary, Stability Control
It is especially important to select running shoes built for stability if you overpronate (your foot rolls inwards excessively).
Foot pronation has been linked to Achilles tendinitis, and antipronation technology in shoes can help.
The use of a rocker sole is also possible.
The curved shape of a rocker-style shoe is meant to ease the foot's transition from the heel to the forefoot and increase forward momentum.
Rocker bottom soles are not for everyone and can take some getting used to However, there is evidence that they can lighten the load on the Achilles tendon and aid in pain relief.
How to Treat Achilles Tendonitis with the Right Running Shoes
#1 Men's Running Shoes, Brooks Ghost 15
- A neutral arch, a DNA Loft foam midsole for lightweight cushioning, and a crash pad with strategically placed rubber studs.
Excellent training footwear.
When it comes to Brooks running shoes, the Ghost is a top seller.
The latest model is the most relaxing of the bunch because it conforms so easily to the shape of your foot while still providing adequate arch support.
The updated midsole is constructed from a lighter iteration of the DNA Loft foam. Despite its suppleness, this is lively enough to make you want to dance.
The 12-millimeter heel-to-toe drop aids in Achilles tendon health, and the shoe's 3D Fit Print technology-enhanced mesh upper provides a snug, supportive fit.
This is a shoe that will take you from landing to toe-off in comfort, thanks to its roomy toe box and built-in shock absorber.
#2 Sneakers by ASICS, Model Gel-Kayano 29
Updated lightweight construction, breathable mesh upper, and responsive FF BLAST PLUS midsole.
Overpronators, this is your best option.
The ASICS Gel-Kayano, with its classic medial post and medially extended external heel counter, is among the most well-known stability shoes on the market.
These offer a great deal of support and direction while remaining unobtrusive and pleasant to wear.
Soft and supportive recycled knit fabric is used for the upper. This fits like a sock and wraps around your foot snugly.
It may take some time to get used to, and there isn't a lot of room for your toes.
It may feel restrictive at first, but it keeps your foot from shifting around in your shoe.
The 10 mm drop helps reduce stress on the Achilles tendon while the responsive foam in the midsole keeps you going strong.
The longevity of this shoe also wowed us. AHAR rubber, typically found in automobile tires, is used to construct the outsole, giving the shoe superior abrasion resistance and traction.
#3 Athletic Shoes: Mizuno Men's Wave Rider 26
- Long-lasting carbon rubber outsole; padded insole; stable platform
Favorable for those with a wider forefoot
This is a neutral running shoe, but it has a small amount of stability.
The wider forefoot and moderately rounded heel create a stable platform.
Mizuno's WAVE® plate technology provides superior shock absorption by spreading the impact's energy over a larger surface area, making this effect even more noticeable.
It has a high heel-to-toe drop of 12 mm, which is ideal for reducing Achilles tendon strain, and a slightly stretchy mesh upper for a snug but not restrictive fit.
With its slightly firm feel and excellent energy return, the MIZUNO ENERZY midsole foam propels you forward.
You won't have to worry about your Achilles tendon getting overworked or experiencing any pain thanks to the rigid heel counter and densely padded heel collar.
#4 Running Shoes, New Balance 990v5
Pigskin and mesh upper, superb ankle support, and a plethora of available sizes and widths.
Achilles tendonitis sufferers should wear "classic"-style footwear.
The New Balance 990v5 is a great option for those who value classic style and durability over speed.
The 990 has always been a favorite among casual runners and walkers, and this updated model has some welcome upgrades. The lateral ankle is supported by a plastic panel, and the toe box is widened for comfort.
ENCAP, a supportive core of soft cushioning surrounded by a tough polyurethane rim, is located in the shoe's midsole.
To keep your Achilles from getting too tight, these shoes have a 12 mm drop and an Ortholite wedge insert at the heel.
The 990 is versatile enough for everyday use, but the lack of breathability (due to the upper being primarily suede) is a major drawback.
This is a great all-around shoe that will keep your feet cool and dry during training and beyond, unless you plan on running in extremely hot conditions.
#5 New Balance Women's 574 Running Shoes
Plush new cushioning, a strategically placed Crash Pad, and a modern 3D printed upper.
Low-arched runners: these are the best shoes to prevent Achilles tendinitis.
The Adrenaline 22 is an excellent running shoe because it keeps your foot in its natural position while you're on your feet.
It employs Brooks' GuideRails technology, which is meant to prevent harmful shin and heel rotation and promote natural, comfortable motion.
Brooks likens this innovation to bike stabilizers, which prevent excessive lean in one direction.
Your whole body will feel better because your knees and hips will be better supported.
Achilles pain is reduced by the 12 mm drop, and the supportive mesh knit upper is airy and lightweight.
Your heel will stay put thanks to the padded and rigid heel counter.
Meanwhile, the midsole's 100% DNA LOFT cushioning ensures a comfortable ride. It offers a great balance between shock absorption and the necessary responsiveness, being soft without being squishy.
#6 Runners' Bondi 8s from HOKA ONE ONE
- Stability-enhancing flared outsole, maximum cushioning, and Ortholite® hybrid sockliner
The rocker sole design of the best running shoes for Achilles tendinitis.
Bondi shoes from Hoka are among the most cushioned and comfortable available, but they have a history of being somewhat cumbersome.
But with the Bondi 8, Hoka appears to have found the sweet spot between comfort and fashion.
This shoe has a sleek appearance while still providing the signature comfort of the brand.
The Bondi 8 has a wide platform for stability, a memory foam collar for a contoured fit, and an internal heel counter to prevent the shoe from sliding laterally.
New aesthetic considerations have been put into the upper's design. The new design isn't just aesthetically pleasing, though; it also aids in guiding your midfoot and arch as you run.
The drop from heel to toe is relatively small, measuring in at just 4 mm.
Instead, it is the highly rockered geometry that reduces stress on the calf, ankle, and Achilles tendon.
What You Need to Know About Running Shoes and Achilles Tendonitis
Without treatment, Achilles tendonitis can worsen and become a chronic issue.
Selecting shoes that will aid in the reduction of pain rather than the exacerbation of it is crucial if you are predisposed to the condition.
Thank you for taking the time to read our article on the best running shoes for Achilles tendinitis.
Do you stretch your feet when you're done running?
The most common post-run stretches target the thighs, calves, and buttocks. However, warming up and stretching your feet before you start is also essential.
Check out our article on the Top 10 Foot Stretches for Runners to learn more.
