Best Running Shoes For Achilles Tendonitis

Mizuno Wave Inspire 17 Running Shoes

Running can be a fun hobby, effective exercise, or simply a way to get out and breathe in the fresh air while moving your body – but overusing your feet can lead to injuries like Achilles tendonitis. Recovery from such an injury is important so we looked for the best running shoes for Achilles tendonitis.

Our number one pick for the best running shoes for Achilles tendonitis is the Mizuno Wave Inspire 17 Running Shoes. These have comfortable cushioning that absorbs shock with an adequate heel drop, ensuring your foot makes soft landings.

Of course, not everyone has the same cases of Achilles tendonitis. Those with the same issue also have differences in preferences and prioritized needs in their running shoes. Picking the right running shoes for you can make all the difference in how you recover from Achilles tendonitis.

In this article, we will explore the best running shoe options for the condition and considerations to keep in mind in shoe shopping. We’ll also dive deep into the subject of Achilles tendonitis.

*Important note: we are not medical professionals, so always discuss foot pain and medical issues with a doctor. There are, however, lots of reviews by others that have dealt with this issue, and we have done some extensive research on the subject to help you find a great pair of shoes more quickly. 

Our Top Picks

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Dimensions: 12.01 x 7.36 x 4.53 inches
  • Item Weight: 1.37 Pounds
  • Sole type: Rubber sole
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  • Dimensions: 11.6 x 7.4 x 4.4 inches
  • Item Weight: 1.15 Pounds
  • Sole type: Rubber sole
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  • Dimensions: 11.6 x 7.2 x 4.1 inches
  • Item Weight: 14.11 Ounces
  • Sole type: Synthetic sole
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  • Dimensions: 10 x 15 x 6 inches
  • Item Weight: 2 Pounds
  • Sole type: Rubber sole
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  • Dimensions: 5 x 0.7 x 5 inches
  • Item Weight: 7.2 Ounces
  • Sole type: Rubber sole
View On Amazon →Read Our Review

What is Achilles Tendonitis?

Before diving straight into our reviews for the best running shoes for Achilles tendonitis, it’s important to understand what it is, and what causes it. 

What is the Achilles tendon?

The Achilles tendon is tissue connecting the heel bone to the muscles of the lower part of the calf. It is the largest and also strongest tendon in the human body.

The Achilles tendon assists the human body in all kinds of activities – especially walking. It’s responsible for lifting the heels off the ground during such activities.

What is Achilles tendonitis?

Though the strongest and largest tendon in the human body, the Achilles tendon is particularly vulnerable to injury, especially if overused and overworked.

When the Achilles tendon becomes irritated or inflamed, this leads to a condition known as Achilles tendinitis. This is a very painful condition that, if not treated immediately and properly, can lead to a lifetime of chronic pain every time you engage in heavy activities.

What causes it?

The most common reason why some deal with Achilles tendonitis is because of overuse.

When someone is active, always moving, and always on their feet, they can overuse their Achilles tendon. This leads to inflammation and irritation aka Achilles tendonitis.

Wearing ill-fitting shoes when you’re running or constantly moving around can worsen inflammation of the tendon. Exercising without proper warm-up first can also be a contributing factor.

What are the common symptoms?

Achilles tendonitis symptoms widely vary and would depend on the degree of the injury but nonetheless, keep an eye out for these general symptoms:

  • Inflamed area
  • Heel and ankle pain
  • Swelling around the ankle
  • Pain on the back of the leg, just above the heel
  • Limited range of motion and affected flexibility
  • Stiff and tender on the calf and heel area
  • General weakness with activities requiring the use of the tendon

Types of Achilles tendonitis

There are two kinds of Achilles tendonitis:

Noninsertional Achilles tendonitis

This type impacts the middle section of the tendon. Pain tends to be on the higher portion of the heel and will cause a swollen appearance. This commonly affects younger and active people more.

Insertional Achilles tendonitis

This type affects the lower part of the tendon. This affects the lower back part of the heel. Though this can affect just about anyone, it’s more common in those who tend to overuse their Achilles tendon like long-distance runners.

Who is at risk?

While anyone can develop Achilles tendinitis, it’s a common injury for active people and athletes.

Those who play and engage in sports like running and long-distance running are at risk. People who have jobs where they frequently use and put stress on their feet and ankles are more at risk than others as well.

Is it treatable?

Achilles tendonitis is treatable. If you consult with a medical professional, they will recommend both non-surgical and surgical options.

If you notice any of the symptoms above, it’s best to consult with a doctor right away to intervene and not let it get worse.

Why running shoes matter

If you deal with consistent pain from Achilles tendonitis, one of the first things people recommend is changing your running shoes.

When you run or engage in strenuous sports and activities, there is a lot of pressure on your feet and joints. The right running shoes will lessen the impact on your joints when your feet make contact with the ground.

And for the best out in the market right now, we’ve got you covered right below!

The Best Running Shoes For Achilles Tendonitis

  1. Mizuno Wave Inspire 17 Running Shoes – Best Overall!
Mizuno Wave Inspire 17 Running Shoes

Our number one pick for the best running shoes for Achilles tendonitis is the Mizuno Wave Inspire 17 Running Shoes! Built as a stability shoe, this is perfect for runners who overpronate. Neutral runners also don’t have to worry as this still wears comfortably for them.

The brand’s innovative Enerzy foam has improved cushioning and springy qualities. The shoes promise to respond well as your feet touch the ground with far less impact. You can expect greatly reduced impact and optimal shock reduction every time your foot makes a landing.

With a TPU fan-shaped heel wedge, this has even more cushioning than its predecessor. This ensures your foot makes a landing in the softest way possible and has a smoother transition.

Don’t be fooled though as this doesn’t only provide cushioning and softness but also stability runners are after. This is a durable pair and the added stability helps deal with pronation effects on your feet and joints. This works to correct the possible effects of overpronation on feet while running.

Many runners who suffer from Achilles tendonitis would agree that this pair feels great. The extra cushioning also works to protect joints and reduce the impact on the Achilles. This also has the optimal 12mm heel-to-toe drop.

The shoe upper has a soft, smooth, and comfortable mesh that promises breathability no matter how much you move and sweat. The overall material used prevents rubbing or chafing against your skin so you don’t end up with irritated and sore skin instead.

The only common downside to this quite a few are reporting is that it can fit a little snugly on the toe area. No worries though – if this is the case for you too, there are wide sizes available and you can get those instead. These provide more wiggle room in the toe area.

Pros:

  • Stability shoes for overpronation
  • Improved cushioning for less impact
  • 12mm drop
  • Breathable, smooth, and comfortable
  • Soft landings and smooth transitions
  • Available in wide sizes

Cons:

  • Fits snugly on toes for some
  1. ASICS Gel-Cumulus 22 Running Shoes – Best for High Arches!
ASICS Gel-Cumulus 22 Running Shoes

The next item to make it into our list of the best running shoes for Achilles tendonitis is the ASICS Gel-Cumulus 22 Running Shoes! It’s also our best pick for feet with high arches.

If you have high-arched feet and suffer from Achilles tendonitis at the same time, this might be what you need. This has very cushiony and comfortable insoles that provide enough support for high-arched feet.

Many noted that walking in these is like walking on clouds – that’s how comfortable this pair is. This also provides great support and relief for feet suffering from Achilles tendonitis.

The brand’s gel cushioning technology provides softer cushioning materials where your heels rest. This cushioning technology also works to reduce impact and shock when your foot lands on the ground. This one has a 10mm heel drop as well.

This was designed with the brand’s superior Flytefoam technology. This provides optimal cushioning on the midsoles as well to create a pillowy, soft-like-a-cloud feeling under each foot.

This pair comes with the premium Ortholite® Sockiliner. This feature works to adapt to the unique contours of your feet for added and optimal support as you run or go about your day. This sock liner feature is also to thank for the shoe’s premium breathability and moisture management.

The uppers of the shoes have a seamless 3D printing structure that increases both comfort and support for both feet. The uppers are flexible and comfortable to the point that it has a barely-there fit right from the box. The mesh material helps with proper ventilation and adds comfort.

The outsides of the shoes come with special reflective materials to enhance visibility in low-light conditions for your safety. These are neutral support shoes and are recommended for neutral runners.

One downside to this as shared by others is it can run narrow on toes so it’s suggested to get wide sizes instead.

Pros:

  • Best for high-arched feet
  • Reduced impact on feet and heels
  • Soft and comfortable cushioning
  • 10mm heel drop
  • Breathable and ventilated
  • Available in wide sizes

Cons:

  • Fits narrow on toes for some
  1. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Running Shoes – Best of the Classics!
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Running Shoes

If what you prefer is one of the classic and trusted global brands, check out the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Running Shoes! Avid fans would agree that this provides optimal cushioning with great arch support. Such a design prevents sores on your feet, especially if you suffer from Achilles tendonitis.

There is a so-called “airbag” that runs on the bottoms of the shoes, from toes to heels. This design improves responsiveness and helps reduce the impact on feet and joints when you land on the ground.

The shoes also have rubber pods on the bottoms which assist your feet as you make a landing on the ground. With the addition of cushion foams, this promises firm yet soft and comfortable cushioning to protect your feet and joints from too much shock and impact. This has a premium sock liner that adapts to the unique contours of your feet for optimal support.

On the outsoles of the shoes are waffle pistons that help absorb excess impact when you land on your feet. The feature also provides multi-surface traction so you can tackle just about any terrain.

The shoes use Flymesh fabric that’s breathable yet durable at the same time. This one has a slimmer design and tongue as well to reduce the bulky feeling on your feet. This results in a conforming and comfortable fit.

This pair also boasts a slimmer heel collar that tapers away from the Achilles tendon so you know it won’t bother you at all and will not contribute to foot soreness.

As for the fit, this has exposed flywire cables on the outside so you can wear it snugly when you need it.

Many noted that the sizes run smaller. It’s also necessary information you should know that this doesn’t come in wide size variations, only the standards.

Pros:

  • Great arch support
  • Reduces impact on feet
  • Breathable and durable
  • Adapts to feet’s contours
  • Slim and lightweight
  • Multi-surface traction

Cons:

  • Size runs small
  • No wide sizes
  1. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 Supportive Running Shoes
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 Supportive Running Shoes

The next item to make it into our list of the best Achilles tendonitis running shoes is the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 Supportive Running Shoes! A pair of supportive running shoes, this promises to provide both support and softness to guide you through a variety of terrains.

Designed with the brand’s smart support technology, this keeps excess movements of your feet in check so you stay in balance. There’s also soft cushioning that provides smooth and soft underfoot comfort no matter the time of day.

The shoes use what is called DNA loft. This cushioning technology is comfortably soft but never too squishy under your feet so you’re sure to remain stable with every stride. This has a 12mm midsole drop as well.

With premium cushioning from heel to toe, this promises smoother transitions that won’t hurt your feet and joints in any way. This pair is recommended for daily runs to ensure a soft landing on your feet so there is far less impact and shock.

As many with Achilles tendonitis would agree, this provides great support as an everyday shoe while preventing flare-ups.

One common drawback quite a few have shared about this favorite pair is that the toe box can be small and narrow for some with wider feet. The good news is this pair also comes with wide size varieties so it’s highly suggested to get that one if you need to.

Pros:

  • Supportive running shoes
  • 12mm drop
  • Keeps excess movements in check
  • Wide sizes available
  • Soft ground landings
  • Great support on heels and ankles

Cons:

  • Small toe box
  1. Saucony VersaFoam Cohesion 12 Running Shoes
Saucony VersaFoam Cohesion 12 Running Shoes

The Saucony VersaFoam Cohesion 12 Running Shoes are our last pick for the best running shoes for Achilles tendonitis!

The shoes’ cushioning system and VersaFoam footbed work together to provide your feet with both support and soft comfort. Its system works to reduce the impact on your feet and joints, especially if you deal with Achilles tendonitis.

This boasts a durable rubber outsole so rest assured it won’t wear off too quickly even with your toughest workout routine or longest run. Both the tongue and collar are padded to ensure comfort even on long hours of wear.

The uppers of the shoes are made of lightweight mesh materials. This ensures breathability and comfort even if you sweat under the sun. The shoes are also overall flexible and are super comfortable even if you work in these all day.

The soles provide optimal support and balance while also proving great arch support. This is also lightweight and provides comfort for feet dealing with pain and other foot-related issues.

The one downside to this is it can be a little too narrow on the toe box. But the good news is they are available in wide sizes. If you’re someone with wider feet, opt for the wide counterpart instead.

Pros:

  • Reduces impact on feet and joints
  • Durable outsole
  • Padded tongue and collar for comfort
  • Lightweight and breathable
  • Supportive with soft comfort
  • Available in wide sizes

Cons:

  • Can be narrow on toe box

How to Choose the Best Running Shoes For Achilles Tendonitis

Mid to high heel-to-toe drop

The heel-to-toe drop refers to the height difference between the shoe’s heel and the toe or forefoot area. This is often stated in millimeters or mm. The higher the heel is compared to the toe area, the higher the heel-to-toe drop is.

When you’re dealing with Achilles tendonitis, you want to relieve pressure off of your heels and off of the Achilles tendon. You can achieve this in running shoes by getting a pair that has a mid to high heel-to-toe drop.

A high drop will definitely help take some of the pressure off so you can avoid flare-ups. At least a drop of 8mm is ideal.

Comfortable cushioning

If you’re suffering or recovering from Achilles tendonitis, you want the most shock and impact absorption you can get your feet on. In running shoes, this is possible by considering the shoe’s cushioning.

A comfortable cushioning technology protects your feet, heels, and joints from excessive impact and shock when your feet make a landing on the ground.

At least a mid-level cushioning is ideal to reduce the strain and pressure off of your heels and tendons.

Quality midsole and insole

The midsole and insole of a shoe contribute greatly to the quality of wear of a shoe. You want a soft and comfortable midsole and insole. Both have to offer enough support and should help the shoe absorb shock and impact every time your foot makes a landing.

When you’re looking at the midsole and insole factor, the thing to again keep in mind is they have to help reduce pressure and stress load off of your heels and Achilles tendons.

They should also be soft and comfortable, especially if you’re planning on using the shoe for long periods at a time.

Arch support

Your shoe’s arch support would greatly depend on your arch type. Whether you have high arches or flat feet, your shoes need to have proper and adequate arch support.

People with high-arched feet need a pair of shoes with tons of arch support. On the other hand, those with flat feet would need a shoe with a flatter arch support.

Shock absorption

We cannot stress this enough – when you have Achilles tendonitis, you need shoes that will help reduce impact and absorb excessive shock when your foot makes a landing on the ground.

To ensure you have a pair that is an effective shock absorber, check out the factors above.

Conclusion

Running is a popular sport, exercise, and hobby for many. Unfortunately, running also means putting a lot of stress on your feet and on that tendon called the Achilles tendon. Overusing this part of your body can likely lead to Achilles tendonitis.

If you’re an avid runner and are dealing with your own case of Achilles tendonitis, our best running shoes pick for you is Mizuno Wave Inspire 17 Running Shoes. This one has improved cushioning and adequate heel drop to absorb impact and shock.

And that has been our list and review of the best running shoes for Achilles tendonitis. If you have questions, just hit us up right below!

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