15 Best Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis 2024, According to Podiatrist
Last Updated: January 01, 2024 | Author: Dr. John Anderson
The Achilles tendon is a thick band of tissue that runs from the back of the calf muscle to the back of the heel. But Achilles tendonitis occurs if this fibrous tissue is damaged.
There may be initial discomfort when walking caused by tight calves, sore feet, and a painful heel. The symptoms, however, may become more severe over time. However, shoes made to cushion the Achilles tendon can help alleviate or prevent tendonitis.
Meanwhile, there are only so many best shoes for Achilles tendonitis. But, as there were so many pairs of shoes, we volunteered to help. Continue reading for a detailed review of some of the top comfort picks for Achilles Tendon sufferers, according to Podiatrist!
Quick Pick Section
While some of you may need more time to go through the whole article; therefore, we'll summarize our best picks below.
Best Overall - Asics Gel Nimbus-24
Highlighting Features
- • These shoes are suitable for everyday wear.
- • The forefoot of the shoes has an integrated mesh.
- • The base of the pair has extra cushioning to reduce friction.
- • It also has a spacious toe box.
All Day Walking - Hoka Bondi 7
Highlighting Features
- • These shoes are suitable for all-day walking.
- • Mesh material is used for the top, so your feet can breathe.
- • The footwear has an oversized, comfortable shoe midsole.
- • The shoes have a strengthened heel-to-toe transition.
Comparison Table
| S.No. | Products | Price Range | Amazon Rating | Manufacturer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brooks Ghost 14 | $109 - 158 | 4.7 out of 5 | Brooks |
| 2 | Saucony Ride 15 | $83 - 140 | 4.6 out of 5 | Saucony |
| 3 | New Balance Fresh Foam Roav V1 | $72 - 108 | 4.6 out of 5 | New Balance |
| 4 | New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 V11 | $130 – 184 | 4.5 out of 5 | New Balance |
| 5 | Skechers Go Joy | $33 – 57 | 4.5 out of 5 | Skechers |
| 6 | Hoka Bondi 7 | $180 – 300 | 4.5 out of 5 | Hoka |
| 7 | New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon V3 | $70 – 120 | 4.5 out of 5 | New Balance |
| 8 | Asics Gel-Nimbus 24 | $114 – 120 | 4.4 out of 5 | Asics |
| 9 | Ryka Devotion Plus 3 | $68 – 90 | 4.4 out of 5 | Ryka |
| 10 | Birkenstock Tokio | $105 – 165 | 4.4 out of 5 | Birkenstock |
| 11 | Brooks Addiction Walker | $140 - 180 | 4.3 out of 5 | Brooks |
| 12 | Orthofeet Francis | $133 | 4.2 out of 5 | Orthofeet |
| 13 | Gravity Defyer G-Defy Mighty Walk | $100 - 145 | 4.1 out of 5 | Gravity Defyer |
| 14 | Propét Stability Walker | $55 – 100 | 4.1 out of 5 | Propet |
| 15 | OrthoComfoot Sneakers | $77 | 4.1 out of 5 | OrthoComfoot |
List of Best Shoes for Achilles Tendon
This article will examine some of the most highly praised Achilles Tendonitis shoes in 2024, targeting both genders.
#1: Best Running Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis - New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 V11
| Arch Support | Cushioning | Toe Box |
|---|---|---|
| Neutral | Balanced | Wide |
KEY FEATURES
If you suffer from Achilles Tendinopathy, the New Balance Fresh Foam More 1080 v11 is the best running shoe you can buy. Its superior grip and surprisingly light weight are its two best features. Meanwhile, the superb traction made the steps steady on slippery cement, damp grass, and fresh snow. The FreshFoam 1080v11's stretch upper is also very soft and comfortable. The shape conforms to your body in just the right way. In addition, the breathability enhances by a slightly padded tongue. We love the New Balance 1080v11 model, and you should get your hands on it immediately!
Reasons to Buy
- ➕ The shoes are exceptionally light to wear.
- ➕ Maintaining airflow and stability, the tongue does its job.
- ➕ The shoes have a wide range of color options.
Reasons to Avoid
- ➖ The upper is far too pliable.
- ➖ The shoes are not suitable for abrupt turns.
#2: Best Tennis Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis - Skechers Go Joy
| Arch Support | Cushioning | Toe Box |
|---|---|---|
| Neutral | Balanced | N/A |
KEY FEATURES
Women with Achilles tendon load who value fashion would appreciate the Skechers GOwalk Joy. You can stand on it for hours without any discomfort. In addition, the Skechers GOwalk Joy may be quickly put on and taken off thanks to its slip-on style. The material design is smooth on the foot despite the absence of laces to adjust the fit. Additionally, the 5GEN midsole's plush cushioning does a great job of protecting the foot from any fatigue. Nonetheless, the model has also been a lifesaver for the feet of elderly users.
Reasons to Buy
- ➕ You may wear the shoes casually all day.
- ➕ It aids in the relief of foot pain.
- ➕ The soft cushioning keeps the shoe breathable.
- ➕ They are simple to put on and take off.
Reasons to Avoid
- ➖ The pair might not grip well on wet surfaces.
#3: Best Walking Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis - Birkenstock Tokio
| Arch Support | Cushioning | Toe Box |
|---|---|---|
| Neutral | N/A | Wide |
KEY FEATURES
Surprisingly, the Tokio Shoes help alleviate Achilles tendonitis by enhancing foot posture and reducing tension on the heel. The combination of cork and latex in the footbed provides cushioning and a healthy environment for your feet. Also, from what we've seen and heard from other customers, the cork and latex footbed is virtually odorless. Meanwhile, it may hold up arches in both directions. It effectively lifts the heel and provides firm arch support. The amount of work your heel has to do reduces due to all of this. In addition, there is a thin EVA midsole for more cushioning and stress pain relief. The upper is durable, and the insole provides pleasant wear. More so, the buckle fasteners also prevent the shoe from coming off your foot.
Reasons to Buy
- ➕ These shoes provide an increased stance stability.
- ➕ These shoes have a shock-reducing ability.
- ➕ The footwear is exceptionally comfortable to wear.
Reasons to Avoid
- ➖ After some time of wear, the sole of this footwear begins to detach.
#4: Best Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis and Plantar Fasciitis - OrthoComfoot Sneakers
| Arch Support | Cushioning | Toe Box |
|---|---|---|
| Neutral | Balanced | Medium |
KEY FEATURES
Men can benefit from wearing these fashionable and practical leather sneakers from OrthoComfoot every day. You won't want to take them off because they are well-made and soft. The shoes also feature lower support insoles to make getting out of them more accessible. The orthotic inserts minimize foot strain and provide great arch support. Overstretching your plantar fascia can be alleviated with the help of deep heel cups and distributing your weight evenly across the ball and heel of your foot. Moreover, the foam in the footbed enhances the comfort of your walk and helps keep your feet healthy.
Reasons to Buy
- ➕ The shoes provide exceptional foot cushioning.
- ➕ It also offers excellent arch support.
- ➕ They are designed specifically for persons with foot ailments.
- ➕ The footwear is exceptionally light.
Reasons to Avoid
- ➖ The pair may not be as long-lasting as advertised.
#5: Best Shoes for Insertional Achilles Tendonitis - ASICS Gel-Nimbus 24
| Arch Support | Cushioning | Toe Box |
|---|---|---|
| Neutral | Plush | Medium |
KEY FEATURES
The Nimbus 24 is beneficial for insertional Achilles tendonitis and now offers a more spacious toe box. Plus, the new model gives a more forgiving fit in the forefoot. The upper provides slightly greater flexibility and airflow. Molding to the shape of your foot, the synthetic overlays offer superior support. At the same time, the shoes have an exoskeletal heel that provides a snugger fit and more stability. As a result, your foot will feel more supported throughout each step. In addition to enhancing recovery and moisture management, the Ortholite X40 premium insole is lightweight and durable. Overall, it's a fantastic choice for getting your feet back in shape.
Reasons to Buy
- ➕ There is added padding to the shoes for maximum ease of use.
- ➕ The shoe has materials of the highest quality and longevity.
- ➕ They are available with many options for both genders in terms of color.
Reasons to Avoid
- ➖ Often becomes more challenging and unpleasant with time and use of these shoes.
- ➖ It has a not-so-great insole.
- ➖ Footwear may be costly.
#6: Best Men's Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis - Saucony Ride 15
| Arch Support | Cushioning | Toe Box |
|---|---|---|
| Neutral | Balanced | Medium |
KEY FEATURES
The Saucony Ride 15 has features that make it a great all-around shoe for runners with Achilles tendinitis. Neutral pronators who want a bit of cushioning but not a lot of support will excel in these shoes. The shoe's rubber outsole provides superior traction and flexibility for an authentic running experience. You may get a custom fit using the classic lacing method and the top's soft and stretchy nature. Moreover, the PWRRUN foam provides more padding and a quick and responsive ride. In conclusion, this shoe offers sufficient give in strategic spots to mitigate impact effects, which can aggravate tendonitis.
Reasons to Buy
- ➕ These shoes are ideal for individuals with neutral arches who require moderate arch support.
- ➕ The upper part fits perfectly.
- ➕ This footwear is soft and responsive, with plenty of padding.
Reasons to Avoid
- ➖ Lower than average drop compared to competing running shoe brands.
#7: Best Work Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis - New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon v3
| Arch Support | Cushioning | Toe Box |
|---|---|---|
| Neutral | Plush | Extra Wide |
KEY FEATURES
The Beacon V3s are the most risk-free option for runners with Achilles injury. They use the best foam available, Fresh Foam, for padding. Its cushioning keeps your feet happy throughout marathons yet sturdy enough for shorter runs. You will want to take your time with this combo because they provide such good sensory feedback. The sneaker's mesh upper makes it both lightweight and airy. The stretchy and supportive Ultra deep heel cup will keep your heel in place. All in all, it's comfortable even for big feet! Finally, the shape of the sole propels you forward while reducing stress on the Achilles tendon.
Reasons to Buy
- ➕ The footwear is exceptionally light to wear.
- ➕ Limits the foot's natural tendency to pronate or roll outwards (supinate).
- ➕ The wide toe box opens up because of the shoe's generous width.
Reasons to Avoid
- ➖ This shoe's outsole is a rock magnet.
- ➖ Avoid if your feet are thin.
#8: Best Women's Walking Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis - Orthofeet Francis Sneakers
| Arch Support | Cushioning | Toe Box |
|---|---|---|
| Neutral | Balanced | Wide |
KEY FEATURES
People with foot issues, including Plantar Fasciitis, Blisters, Achilles Tendonitis, Diabetes, Arthritis, etc., can benefit from wearing a pair of Orthofeet shoes. These shoes are on-trend and available in several different colors. A built-in booster enhances the arch support of your Orthofeet shoes. Also, these shoes offer an ergonomic heel-toe drop and a high-quality orthotic insole for all-day comfort. Moreover, t Considering the high quality, adaptability, and fair price of Orthofeet shoes, you can't go wrong with a pair. Furthermore, Orthofeet footwear is available in various styles for both gender, for example, sandals, slippers, boots, and more.
Reasons to Buy
- ➕ The footwear provides adequate backing.
- ➕ They come with a comfortable, padded sole.
- ➕ It consists of several different aesthetics.
- ➕ These shoes come with compression socks.
Reasons to Avoid
- ➖ The shoes become tight with time and use.
#9: Best Hiking Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis - Propét Stability Walker
| Arch Support | Cushioning | Toe Box |
|---|---|---|
| Stability | Balanced | N/A |
KEY FEATURES
We recommend Propét over all other options for anyone suffering from Achilles pain. The heel, and the rest of the sole, are incredibly cushioned. The package features a manufactured orthotic shoe insert that is both comfortable and functional. Cushioning ridges and a gel heel pad work together to absorb impact and keep your foot safe. The cushioned midsole arch frame supports the arch and corrects the natural foot alignment. In addition, this aids in the treatment of flat arches. The company also offers shoes with a suede finish. The D-ring fastening method allows for a snug fit without restricting your foot's range of motion. Critics praised the footwear's unique design, noting that it outperformed the men's version in popularity and comfort.
Reasons to Buy
- ➕ The footwear provides excellent arch support.
- ➕ These shoes are shock resistant.
- ➕ Correctly aligns the foot, which improves posture.
- ➕ Good heel support with a heel counter.
Reasons to Avoid
- ➖ These shoes have a poor size and fit consistency.
- ➖ Resulting in painful rubbing and blistering.
#10: Best Athletic Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis - Gravity Defyer G-Defy Mighty
| Arch Support | Cushioning | Toe Box |
|---|---|---|
| Stability | Foam | Normal |
KEY FEATURES
Cushioning that both reduces pain in the heel and prevents further injury or heel pain is essential. For this reason, we like G-Defy Mighty Walk. Those who suffer from heel bone spurs can also benefit from them. The extensive midsole cushioning is immediately apparent, while the Verso Shock cushioning effectively absorbs impact and distributes weight. The orthotic insoles have a polyurethane core, perforations for airflow, and a foam cushioning system. They reduce the strain on your feet while you walk and protect you from overpronation. We like how well these shoes adjust your gait and how much support they provide. The G-overall Defy's loose construction and spacious toe box facilitate free foot motion.
Reasons to Buy
- ➕ The footwear is durable and long-lasting.
- ➕ Have great shock absorption feature to provide great support.
- ➕ The shoes are comfortable to wear.
- ➕ Provides Adjustment to your gait.
Reasons to Avoid
- ➖ After repeated usage, these shoes become tight and short.
#11: Best Hoka Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis - Hoka Bondi 7
| Arch Support | Cushioning | Toe Box |
|---|---|---|
| Neutral | Plush | Medium |
KEY FEATURES
After putting the Hoka Bondi 7 through its paces, we can confidently say it radiates comfort. We couldn't get comfortable enough cushioning on our long recovery runs. The softness, unfortunately, comes at the expense of long-term durability. Most experts agree that this is a very snug and padded shoe. Also, we figured out that the velvety feeling varies with temperature.
Meanwhile, it is primarily for running long distances, running to recover, and gradually increasing your weekly mileage. Hoka's innovative Meta-Rocker helps with toe-off flexibility and practically rolls you through transitions in the Bondi 7. Those who land on their heel strike will appreciate Bondi 7's benefits the most.
Related: Hoka Bondi vs Clifton
Reasons to Buy
- ➕ This footwear levels-up ease of use.
- ➕ It provides an excellent grip on the foot.
- ➕ These shoes are perfect for hot weather conditions.
- ➕ Ideal for those who naturally land on their heels.
- ➕ These shoes have superb traction on pavement and easy terrain.
Reasons to Avoid
- ➖ These shoes may feel heavy to wear.
- ➖ High-priced footwear.
#12: Best Basketball Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis - Brooks Ghost 14
| Arch Support | Cushioning | Toe Box |
|---|---|---|
| Neutral | Plush | Wide |
KEY FEATURES
The Brooks Ghost 14 is a fantastic option for runners of any level. For a long time, runners have relied on the Brooks Ghost 14. It's a neutral, cushioned daily trainer that provides support and stability across different distances. This sturdy shoe is built to last and has ample padding in all the right places to ensure your foot is comfortable. The shoe is constructed entirely from Brooks DNA Loft, making it more comfortable than previous versions. The Ghost 14 is the perfect daily trainer for those who prefer a shoe that is neither too stiff nor too soft. It's an excellent shoe for those who need reliability and wants footwear that will last a long time. If you suffer from Achilles Tendonitis but still want to run regularly, this easy daily trainer is for you.
Related:
Reasons to Buy
- ➕ This footwear Focuses solely on ease of use.
- ➕ These shoes are exceptionally steady, even on easy paths.
- ➕ Extremely airy footwear.
- ➕ These shoes are very durable.
- ➕ The footwear provides superior hold.
Reasons to Avoid
- ➖ You cant wear these shoes during the summer's heat due to a lack of breathability.
#13: Best Trail Running Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis - New Balance Fresh Foam Roav V1
| Arch Support | Cushioning | Toe Box |
|---|---|---|
| Neutral | Balanced | N/A |
KEY FEATURES
Everyone can benefit from wearing the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav. This type is so lightweight and comfortable that you can wear it all day long. It won't help you run faster, but if you want a shoe that's easy on your feet—especially if you have any foot disorder—this is it. The cushioning system that New Balance use, known as FreshFoam, is ultra-thin, ultra-soft, and ultra-responsive. The Fresh Foam Roavs are made of mesh, making them lightweight and airy. In addition, you'll gain an extra inch of height from sitting on the cushion. Although they're great for lounging around, the Fresh Foam Roavs aren't quite up to par as running shoes. It's more of a casual shoe that's great for standing or walking on the job.
Reasons to Buy
- ➕ This footwear comes with an attractive style.
- ➕ These shoes are Reasonably priced.
- ➕ They are ideal for the fitness center.
- ➕ Comfortable enough for long periods of walking.
- ➕ These shoes are comfortable enough to stand all day.
Reasons to Avoid
- ➖ This footwear functions well as a workout shoe rather than a running shoe.
- ➖ These shoes become more loose than usual with time.
#14: Best Dress Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis - Brooks Addiction Walker 2
| Arch Support | Cushioning | Toe Box |
|---|---|---|
| Stability | Balanced | Medium |
KEY FEATURES
Addiction Walker 2 by Brooks is an upgraded version of the famous Addiction Walker. This type provides long-lasting comfort, allowing users to wear it for lengthy periods. Its design makes it a better choice for styling and fashion. Yet, it is particularly appropriate for the cooler months as well; it will keep you warm on colder days and in drizzly weather. It has a full-grain leather upper that forms a supportive hug around the foot and gradually adjusts to its contour. As a result, it gets more at ease with time. The shoe's bottom becomes more pliable, allowing for more natural foot movement. Overall, it gives excellent support, enabling you to forget about your foot issues.
Reasons to Buy
- ➕ This footwear provides long-lasting durability and comfort.
- ➕ These shoes are effective in relieving foot discomfort.
- ➕ They have an increased aesthetic quality.
- ➕ These shoes feature an arch-support design.
Reasons to Avoid
- ➖ Comparatively more rigid than the first version of the footwear.
#15: Best Workout Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis - Ryka Devotion Plus 3
| Arch Support | Cushioning | Toe Box |
|---|---|---|
| Neutral | Balanced | Wide |
KEY FEATURES
The Ryka Devotion Plus 3 is worth the cost due to its durable support, low weight, and sleek design. The pair's design is versatile, quick to react, and easy to wear. This walking shoe upper is mainly constructed from a breathable mesh material. The toe box has bigger vents to dissipate heat and prevent foot odor. Meanwhile, a comfortable vibe inside the shoe has a cotton lining. The cushioned tongue and ankle collar offer additional comfort and ankle support. Overall, there may be some disadvantages to this Ryka set, but the advantages outweigh them.
Reasons to Buy
- ➕ The shoes feature great padding for your feet.
- ➕ They are light to wear.
- ➕ This pair also helps to ease foot fatigue.
- ➕ It is both comfortable and fashionable.
Reasons to Avoid
- ➖ The shoes have a complicated lace method.
How to Choose Ideal Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis Sufferers?
Footwear therapy is one of the most well-known and efficient treatments for Achilles tendonitis. While shopping for shoes, we must remember a few significant factors, which we'll discuss now.
Factors to Consider
• Arch Support
The arch of your foot is correlated to Achilles tendonitis; thus, it's necessary to invest in shoes with adequate arch support. Secondly, you must know whether you overpronate or underpronate your feet. We recommend either a semi-curved or a straight last for overpronators, while under pronators should look for shoes with plenty of cushioning.
• Heel Cushioning
Running-related Achilles tendon pain is a significant health issue. It is, therefore, essential to always wear shoes with good heel cushioning. Additionally, having the appropriate amount of cushioning will lessen stress on your heels from abrupt movements.
• Fit and Toe Box
Narrow shoes might aggravate Achilles Tendonitis because they impede foot movement. Therefore, to avoid this in the long run, get shoes with a roomy fit and a deep toe box. Additionally, softer materials, such as mesh, are desirable.
• Flexibility
Because of its flexibility, a shoe allows unrestrained foot motion within it. It'll make the transition from your heel to your toes seamless. Doing so alleviates stress on your Achilles tendon and protects against heel pain and swelling.
FINAL VERDICT
According to the facts above, Achilles tendonitis is a critical concern among athletes, and proper shoes are the immediate cure. Therefore, we advise the ASICS Gel Nimbus 24, which serves several purposes while providing adequate support and cushioning. The shoe is also very fashionable.
Nonetheless, to help you return to your everyday life, we've compiled a list of podiatrist-recommended shoes for Achilles.
Check out our top picks for the best shoes for heel spurs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best shoes to wear if you have severe Achilles tendonitis?
Many runners suffer from Achilles tendonitis because they run in too inflexible or inadequately constructed shoes. Therefore, whether you tend to over-pronate or run more neutrally, you should look for running shoes with the following features: an elastic outsole, a springy midsole, a high heel-to-toe drop, a wide forefoot, a plush inside, and stability control.
2. Can shoes help with inflamed Achilles tendon foot pain?
To facilitate a speedier recovery from such injuries, specialized footwear is essential. These shoes have a significant heel-to-toe drop, which means they support your arches and your ankles well. Jogging and running will be more joyful with these high-quality and long-lasting sneakers.
3. What worsens Achilles tendon?
Inappropriate footwear, such as shoes that are too tight around the ankles or heels, can aggravate the problem by increasing the risk of Achilles tendon injuries with ankle pain, delaying recovery, and increasing the possibility of a recurrence.
4. What is the fastest way to heal Achilles tendonitis?
Treating Achilles tendonitis conservatively is possible. Foam roller massage, eccentric heel drops, heel lifts, icing after runs, heating up beforehand, more supportive shoe features, strengthening and mobility exercises for the ankle, and running in the neutral shoe are all suitable at-home treatments. Always remember that workouts that require extensive stretching are among the worst choices you can make.
5. How can I prevent having Achilles pain?
Using these precautions will reduce your risk of Achilles tendonitis:
- It's essential to warm up before engaging in any exercise, sports, or other repetitive motion.
- Put on footwear suited to the task at hand.
- It's unsafe to work out on a shaky floor.
- The time has come to give up any pastimes causing you pain.
