Your 11 Best Running Sneakers For Achilles Tendonitis
Here is a list of the best running sneakers for Achilles tendonitis broken down into my top 3 picks and 8 other great options!
Achilles Tendonitis is a condition that causes you to feel pain and discomfort in the back of your foot.
This condition is usually caused by tendon overuse and is often suffered by sportsmen, women, and people involved in activities that strain their tendons.
Some notable symptoms of achilles tendonitis include swelling in the back of your heel and stiffness of the tendon, amongst others.
And as stated by several physiotherapists, one of the best recovery methods for someone suffering from achilles tendonitis is physical therapy, which can progress in to exercises like walking and running.
But, not any kind of shoe can be used to carry out these types of exercises when you are suffering from achilles tendonitis.
Using the wrong pair of shoes will cause more harm to your tendon than good.
So, you must wear shoes that can support your tendon.
The use of supportive shoes helps you feel less pain while you walk and run and reduces the load on the tendon in the process, hence reducing the chances of your tendon wearing or tearing further as you engage in daily physical activities.
However, knowing the type of shoes that can play this supportive role in your feet can be a hard nut to crack.
So, to save you the stress, I have handpicked 11 of the best running sneakers for Achilles tendonitis and highlighted the key factors you should consider before choosing the best sneaker for you.
On this page you will find:
- A quick list of the best running sneakers for achilles tendonitis
- A breakdown of each running shoes pick: pros, cons, key features
- What to look for when shopping for the best running sneakers for achilles tendonitis
Related: The 7 Best Running Insoles for Runners
List at a glance of the 11 Best Running Sneakers For Achilles Tendonitis
My Top 3 Picks:
- Mizuno Wave Rider 24 Running Shoe
- Brooks Ghost 14 Women's Neutral Running Shoe
- ASICS Men's Gel-Kayano 26 Running Shoes
8 Other Great Running Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis:
4. HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 7 Women's Shoes
5. Skechers Men's Max Cushioning Elite-Performance Walking & Running Shoe Sneaker
6. New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 1080 V11 Running Shoe
7. Brooks Men's Ghost 13 Running Shoe
8. ASICS Men's Gel-Nimbus 22 Running Shoes
9. New Balance Women's Fresh Foam Roav V1 Sneaker
10. Saucony Peregrine 11 Trail Running Shoe
11. MBT Rocker Bottom Shoes Men’s – Athletic Running Shoe Speed-1200
Here are all the details on each of the 11 Best Running Sneakers For Achilles Tendonitis
1. Mizuno Wave Rider 24 Running Shoe
It is hard to mention the best running shoes for achilles tendonitis without mentioning the Mizuno Wave Rider 24 Running Shoe.
This shoe is built with Wave plate technology which prevents only one part of your foot from experiencing the impact of every step you take while running. It evenly distributes this impact so that your feet can remain stable despite the intensity of the impact.
Its 12 mm heel drop design and u4ic midsole ensure that it properly absorbs the shock from every step you take, and your heel isn't strained when you run.
This well-built footwear is also very responsive and bouncy.
It has excellent cushioning that ensures that your achilles tendon feels little to no impact, even if you run on tough surfaces.
In addition, it has exceptional arch support that prevents your body weight from resting on your tendon but instead distributes it evenly to different parts of your foot.
The Mizuno Wave Rider 24 Running Shoe is built with a breathable mesh upper which is also soft, stretchable, and lightweight.
Also, this well-upper is complemented with a well-padded heel counter that prevents your heel from slipping while you run and a toe box that gives you enough space to move your toes while you run and doesn't pitch or cause you any discomfort.
The sole of this neutral shoe is made with a tough rubber material for stability on different surfaces and long-lasting use.
Lastly, it is true to size and hugs your feet firmly, holding them in place while you run.
Pros
- It has great arch support.
- It is comfortable.
- It absorbs shock properly.
- It is machine washable.
- It is available in different colors, which you can choose from.
Cons
- They are not good for overpronation.
- Its toe box is average and not wide.
Key Features
- Wave Plate Technology.
- U4ic Midsole.
Ratings
- Comfort: 4.9/5.
- Support: 4.9/5.
- Overall Features: 4.8/5
See Price On Amazon:
2. Brooks Ghost 14 Women's Neutral Running Shoe
The Brooks Ghost 14 Women's Neutral Running Shoe is another great shoe you can use to carry out short and long runs when you have achilles tendon problems.
This shoe is built with a segment crash pad for shock absorption, heel-to-toe smooth transition, and smooth movement of your feet no matter how it lands on a surface hence protecting your tendon from slipping and reigniting the pain in the affected area.
It is extremely comfortable with great arch support and can be worn for both walking and running during your healing process.
In terms of extra support, it is built to provide your feet with top neutral support and is also properly cushioned to respond properly to each step while maintaining a soft feeling at the bottom feet.
In addition, it has DNA LOFT cushioning on its midsole, ensuring that your feet enjoy a smooth and soft ride whenever you have it on. It also has extra cushion in its forefoot area.
The sole of this running shoe is built with a tough rubber material for stability and durability.
In contrast, its upper is built with a synthetic material coupled with 3D Fit Print technology which fits your feet like a glove and keeps them secured.
This sneaker is built with a 12 mm heel-to-toe drop design for added security to your heel area.
With its top delivery and performance, it is no surprise that it is the Number 1 best-selling women's road running shoe on Amazon.
Pros
- It is comfortable.
- It has a great arch and neutral support.
- It fits like a glove.
- It absorbs shock properly.
- It is durable.
- It is available in different colors, which you can select from.
Cons
- It is not waterproof.
- Its laces are too short
Key Features
- A Segment Crash Pad
- DNA LOFT cushioning
- 3D Fit Print Upper technology
- BioMoGo DNA Cushioning.
Ratings
- Comfort: 4.8/5.
- Support: 4.9/5.
- Overall Features: 4.8/5.
3. ASICS Men's Gel-Kayano 26 Running Shoes
ASICS shoes are renowned for delivering top performance, and this Kayano running shoe isn't any different.
This ASICS Men's Gel-Kayano 26 Running shoe is an upgrade to its previous version and has new and advanced features to show to it.
One of these features improved in this edition is Asics' traditional rear foot technology.
The improved rearfoot technology in this shoe absorbs shock perfectly despite the impact your feet have with the road while you are running, making it great for achilles tendon injuries and plantar fasciitis.
This technology also ensures that you maintain a comfortable feeling even after running for long distances.
With these shoes, you don't need to worry about your heels slipping while you run.
This is because it has an eccentric heel drop of 10mm and a firm heel cup that holds the heel in place and also provides it with maximum support when you walk or run.
In the aspect of cushioning and support, the midsole of this shoe is built which two different technologies — the FLYTEFOAM Propel midsole technology and the DUOMAX technology.
The use of these technologies is to provide maximum cushioning and ensure that the shoe provides neutral support to your feet.
It is also to make the shoe give you a bouncy feeling with each step you take and prevent it from too much overpronation.
In addition, it has an Impact Guidance System (I.G.S.) technology which ensures a smooth ride for your feet whenever you use them to run or walk, a feature which you will appreciate if you are a heel striker.
Meanwhile, it has a breathable mesh upper that supports your feet and keeps them comfortable even after you run for a long time.
This running shoe is so good that it is nearly impossible to see or hear any negative reviews about it, hence its 4.7% over 5 rating on Amazon and its place in my top picks.
Pros
- It has a firm heel cup.
- It has good arch support and is great for high arches.
- It is comfortable.
- It is breathable.
- It has great shock absorption ability.
- It is well-cushioned.
- It is durable.
Cons
- It is not a neutral shoe.
- Its heel drop isn't as high as other running shoes.
Key Features
- Improved Rearfoot Technology.
- FLYTEFOAM Propel Midsole Technology.
- Breathable Jacquard Mesh Upper.
- DUOMAX Technology.
- Impact Guidance System (I.G.S.) Technology
Ratings
- Comfort: 4.8/5.
- Support: 4.8/5.
- Overall Features: 4.8/5.
See Price of ASICS Men's Gel-Kayano 26 Running Shoes on Amazon
4. HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 7 Women's Shoes
HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 7 Women's Shoe is one of the best shoes you can wear to relieve either achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis.
It is built with an EVA-coated midsole that properly absorbs the shock in every step and ensures that your feet are always stable.
The insole of this Hoka shoe is constructed with a textile lining and padded lining, ensuring that it is well-cushioned and provides great support to your feet.
In addition, it has a breathable mesh upper built with synthetic material and is complemented with a textile lining for added breathability and abrasion prevention.
To ensure that it grips your feet firmly as you walk and run, it has a synthetic sole coupled with rubber inserts, which also prevents you from slipping while you run.
This durable shoe from HOKA is also true to size and fits perfectly.
Pros
- It is cushiony.
- It is breathable.
- It is comfortable.
- It offers great support.
- It prevents abrasion.
- It is machine washable.
- It is available in different colors, which you can pick from.
Cons
- It is expensive.
- It is not waterproof.
- It has just a 5 mm heel drop.
Key Features
- An Eva-coated Midsole
- A Breathable Mesh Upper
- A Well-Padded Insole
- A Synthetic Outsole
Ratings
- Comfort: 4.8/5.
- Support: 4.7/5.
- Overall Features: 4.7/5.
5. Skechers Men's Max Cushioning Elite-Performance Walking & Running Shoe Sneaker
It will be unfair to talk about cushioning without mentioning the Skechers Men's Max Cushioning Elite-Performance Walking & Running Shoe Sneaker.
This sneaker is built with the Ultra GO cushioning system in its midsole to give you advanced cushioned comfort whenever you walk or run and a great response whenever your feet land on a surface.
It also has an Air Cooled Goga Mat insole cushioning, which properly absorbs the shock whenever you run or walk and provides your feet with great support.
Meanwhile, its upper is made with engineered mesh material for breathability and comfort in all parts of your feet, including your heel area.
In addition, it has a flexible and lightweight outsole which makes the heel-to-toe transition smooth and provides traction and stability on any surface you step on.
Pros
- It has maximum cushioned comfort.
- It has great arch support.
- It is responsive.
- It is lightweight.
- It absorbs shock properly.
- Its upper is breathable.
- It is machine washable.
- It has various colors you can choose from.
Cons
- It isn't good for supination.
- It isn't water resistant.
Key Features
- Ultra GO Midsole Cushioning System.
- Air Cooled Goga Mat Insole Cushioning System.
- Engineered Breathable Mesh Upper.
- Flexible and Lightweight Outsole.
Ratings
- Comfort: 4.8/5.
- Support: 4.8/5.
- Overall Features: 4.9/5.
6. New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 V11 Running Shoe
The list of best running shoes for achilles tendonitis wouldn't be complete without this shoe in it.
This shoe has Ultra Heel technology that grips your heel firmly for a snug fit and maximum support for each step you take while running.
It is also properly cushioned with an underfoot Fresh Foam midsole to ensure your smooth running experience.
The upper of this comfortable sneaker is made up of a breathable knit that holds your feet in place while you run and stretches to ensure you enjoy maximum comfort even when you go on long runs.
To crown it up, it has an Ortholite sockliner which enhances the comfortability that your feet and heel feel when you put the shoe on.
Pros
- It has great heel support.
- It is well-cushioned.
- It has a great fit.
- It is comfortable.
- It is breathable.
- It is bouncy.
- Its upper is stretchy.
Cons
- It is not waterproof.
- There are several reports of failed durability by other users.
Key Features
- Ultra Heel Technology
- Fresh Foam Midsole
- Ortholite Sockliner
Ratings
- Comfort: 4.8/5.
- Support: 4.8/5.
- Overall Features: 4.7/5.
See Price On Amazon:
7. Brooks Men's Ghost 13 Running Shoe
This is the second running shoe from the Ghost Collection of the Brooks brand that makes this list, which speaks volumes about the top quality of the brand's collection of running shoes.
Brooks Ghost 13 Running Shoe is the predecessor of the Brooks Ghost 13 Running Shoe and has some great features that can help you relieve your achilles injury.
The Brooks Ghost 13 Running Shoe is built with a segmented shock-absorbing system that cushions the impact of each step you take.
It also prevents your heel from solely feeling the impact of your steps, all thanks to its heel-to-toe transitions.
Two separate cushioning technologies are joined together in this shoe to make sure that every time your feet land, the load of your body weight is carried by your heel alone but is distributed to other parts of the foot, hence preventing the heel from being strained.
These technologies also ensure that your underfoot remains soft, light, smooth, and responsive throughout your race.
And to ensure that your feet are secured while you run, this shoe is built with an engineered mesh and 3D Fit Print design to hold your feet firmly in place while maintaining its breathability.
Pros
- It has a 12 mm heel drop design.
- It is well-cushioned.
- It is responsive.
- It absorbs shock properly.
- It is comfortable.
- It holds your feet in place while you run.
- It is breathable.
- It is true to size.
- It is available in various colors you can choose from.
Cons
- It is not waterproof.
Key Features
- BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT Cushioning Technologies
- Engineered Mesh and 3D Fit Print Design
- Segmented Crash Pad.
Ratings
- Comfort: 4.8/5.
- Support: 4.8/5.
- Overall Features: 4.8/5.
8. ASICS Men's Gel-Nimbus 22 Running Shoe
The ASICS Men's Gel-Nimbus 22 Running Shoe has exceptional features that are difficult to overlook when looking for a running shoe to relieve achilles tendonitis.
This trail running shoe is built with a soft cushioning system in its heel region which perfectly absorbs the shock from each step you take.
It is also designed with GEL technology in its forefoot region to reduce a load of weight every time your feet lands on the ground while running.
Its lightweight upper is made with an engineered mesh material to keep it breathable and snugly fit.
And unlike previous models of this shoe, this edition is built with more foam in its midsole to reduce how severe your feet feel the impact of any harsh landing.
This added foam in the midsole is complemented with FLYTEFOAM Propel technology to ensure you enjoy a bouncy and energetic running experience.
Meanwhile, underneath the shoe's arch, a thermoplastic TRUSSTIC technology is added to the AHAR outsole to make it more stable and lightweight.
Pros
- It absorbs shock properly.
- It is breathable.
- It is well-cushioned.
- It is lightweight.
- It is comfortable.
- It has a snug fit.
- It is available in different colors, which you can pick from.
Cons
- It isn't as durable as other running shoes.
Key Features
- GEL Technology Cushioning System
- AHAR Outsole
- FLYTEFOAM Propel Midsole Technology
- Engineered Mesh Upper
Ratings
- Comfort: 4.8/5.
- Support: 4.7/5.
- Overall Features: 4.8/5.
9. New Balance Women's Fresh Foam Roav V1 Sneaker
The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam Roav V1 Sneaker is a running sneaker built with the best technologies to make your running experience smooth and soft.
One of these technologies is the Ultra Heel design which provides great arch support and a snug fit for your heel while you run.
This design will play a key role in helping you relieve the pain of achilles tendonitis during your physical therapy process.
It also has a Fresh Foam midsole cushioning technology that absorbs the impact of every step you take while running and makes you feel like you are running in the clouds.
Meanwhile, the rubber outsole of this shoe is built with Ndurance technology, allowing you to run perfectly on different surfaces, no matter how tough or rough.
This shoe was designed to give you all-round comfort whenever you run in them or put them on for a walk.
- Pros
- It is supportive.
- It is comfortable.
- It is properly cushioned.
- It is lightweight.
- It has great arch support.
- It is breathable.
- It is stylish.
- It is available in different colors, which you can choose from.
Cons
- It is not water-resistant.
- It is not good for overpronation.
Key Features
- Ultra Heel Design.
- Fresh Foam Midsole Technology.
- Ndurance Outsole Technology.
Ratings
- Comfort: 4.7/5.
- Support: 4.7/5.
- Overall Features: 4.8/5.
10. Saucony Peregrine 11 Trail Running Shoe
With the Saucony Peregrine 11 Trail Running Shoe, you can run on trails and other tough surfaces without feeling any pain in your achilles tendon.
All thanks to its PWRRUN cushioning, this shoe delivers top responsiveness and shock absorption and reduces the load on your tendon even when you run on trails.
This shoe is also built with a rock plate construction which protects your feet from any surface that might harm them.
Also, it has PWRTRAC rubber lugs that hold your feet firmly in place and prevent you from slipping while running.
The upper and sole are also well-built with good materials to offer top quality for each penny you pay.
Pros
- It is properly cushioned.
- It protects your feet.
- It is comfortable.
- It is responsive.
- It holds your feet firmly in place.
- It prevents you from slipping.
- It is available in different colors, which you can choose from.
Cons
- Its 4 mm heel-to-toe drop design is small compared to other running shoes for Achilles tendonitis.
- It isn't waterproof.
Key Features
- PWRRUN Cushioning
- PWRTRAC Rubber Lugs
Ratings
- Comfort: 4.7/5.
- Support: 4.6/5.
- Overall Features: 4.6/5.
See Price On Amazon
11. MBT Rocker Bottom Shoes Men’s – Athletic Running Shoe Speed-1200
According to research, rocker-bottom shoes reduce the tendon load and ease the strain on the achilles tendon when you use them to run and walk.
And this MBT rocker bottom shoe is one of the best in the market.
Its heel is made with Sensor Technology which cushions it naturally when you go for either short or long runs.
It also has PivotAxis Technology which ensures you maintain a balanced posture while you run, and a sole constructed to give you comfort and support.
It's breathable upper comprises nylon, while its tongue lining and collar feature a Drylex 360 moisture management system.
Meanwhile, this running shoe has a Tri-density midsole, proper cushioning for extra support and strength, and a well-made heel counter.
In addition, this lightweight shoe has an EVA footbed and non-marking outsoles.
Pros
- It has proper cushioning.
- It is supportive to the feet.
- It is lightweight.
- Its upper is breathable.
- It is machine washable.
Cons
- Its outsoles have questionable durability.
Key Features
- Heel Sensor Technology.
- Tri-density Midsole.
- Breathable Nylon Upper.
- Drylex 360 Moisture Management System.
- EVA Footbed.
Ratings
- Comfort: 4.7/5.
- Support: 4.6/5.
- Overall Features: 4.6/5.
Factors You Should Consider Before Choosing A Running Sneaker For Achilles Tendonitis
Arch Support and Cushioning
One of the key features of your sneakers which will aid the relief of pain from an Achilles tendon injury, is an insole with great arch support. These insoles will adjust your foot so you won't feel pain when walking or running.
Another key feature of a sneaker that can help relieve your feet from Achilles pain is it's cushioning.
A well-cushioned sneaker will reduce the stress on your tendon when you walk or run and reduce the impact on your heels when you move.
Heel Design
You should also go for a sneaker with a high-heel drop design.
When a tendon is injured, it wouldn't be wise to stretch it always, so you should get a sneaker with high heel drops.
Putting on a sneaker with higher heels will help reduce how much the tendon will be strained when you walk or run and hence hasten the healing process.
Comfort
Comfort is another feature a sneaker for Achilles tendinitis is supposed to have and I’m sure that you will definitely want it to have!
It won't be a good idea to be working on relieving your tendon while wearing a shoe that also causes discomfort to your feet.
Upper Design
While choosing a sneaker to relieve achilles tendon pain, you must also ensure that its upper is soft and flexible and that your feet can move freely without discomfort.
You can also check if it has a soft pad in its heel area, which your heel bone can rest on.
Sole Design
The sole of this shoe must have a firm grip on the feet and move in sync with the bottom of your foot. This will prevent your heel from slipping while you run and cause the heel pain to reignite and worsen.
Shock Absorption
This shoe should also absorb shock, as this will prevent the tendons and calf muscles from stretching too much.
Best Running Sneakers For Achilles Tendonitis Summary
In this Achilles tendonitis sneaker guide, I have reviewed 11 of the best running sneakers for your relief and therapy process so that you can transition back into your daily activities, regular running routine or full on marathon or half marathon training as quickly as possible!
So, take the factors I have stated above into consideration and make the best choice of running sneakers for your Achilles tendonitis condition.
Also, remember that Achilles injuries don't take forever to heal, so do not be in a hurry to end your rehabilitation process.
It can be hard to put your regular routine on hold but focus on treating the root of the problem with the correct shoes!
Finally, consult with your physiotherapist for a proper check on your Achilles before deciding whether you are able to switch to a new pair of shoes (here’s a guide to the best running shoes for long distance runners), especially if you want to switch from a higher heel/deep heel cup shoe to a more minimalist, lower heel style shoe, or even zero-drop running shoe.
Here is also a guide to the best minimalist running shoes.
Related Pages:
A Guide to Achilles Tendonitis: Prevention, Treatment & Symptoms
Common Running Injuries for Runners
Best Running Shoes for Long Distance Runners
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Hi! I'm Molly! I combined my love for running with my Exercise Science degree to provide training plans and resources to help runners achieve their marathon goals!
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