BEST RUNNING SHOES FOR ACHILLES TENDONITIS 2019 – BUYER’S GUIDE
Achilles tendon injury can happen to anyone whether you are an athlete or do exercises on regular bases. So, first of all, before get into reviewing the about the best running shoes for Achilles tendonitis injury it is important to know about this injury.
The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in your body it is a tough band of fibrous tissue that connects the bones of your heel to your calf muscles.
This tendon helps us to walk, jump and run. Whenever you push off from your toes, the Achilles tendon will transmit about three times of your body weight.
10 BEST RUNNING SHOES FOR ACHILLES TENDONITIS
It is common for this tendon to get injured especially for runners because during running you create more stress on your tendon. That is why it is important to search for the best running shoes for Achilles tendonitis.
The proper running shoes can support a lot in overcoming the injury and soreness associated with tendonitis that is why it is important to find the best running shoes for Achilles tendonitis.
The best running shoes for Achilles tendonitis always provide the best heel cushioning, heel height, firmness and proper arch support to a runner.
So, in this article, we are here to tell you symptoms, causes of Achilles tendonitis and what is the criteria we used to evaluate the best running shoes for Achilles tendonitis. So, let’s get right into it without wasting any time!
Comparison Table Of Best Running Shoes For Achilles Tendonitis
| IMAGE | NAME | UPPER | MIDSOLE | OUTSOLE | CHECK PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | FluidFit™ technology | Heel Clutching, Rearfoot Gel, Forefoot Gel, Fluidride®, Flytefoam® | High-Abrasion Rubber | Check Price | |
 | Saucony Triumph 4 (Men) | Mesh Upper, Isofit | EVERUN | Tri-Flex Outsole | Check Price |
 | Air Mesh, 3D Puff Print Frame | EVA Midsole, Meta-Rocker, J-Frame™ | Rubber Outsole | Check Price | |
 | New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 V7 (Men) | Mesh Upper, Fantom Fit, | EVA Fresh Foam | Blown Rubber Outsole, NDURANCE Rubber, Omega Flex Grooves | Check Price |
 | Mesh Upper, Gore-Tex® | DNA Loft & BioMoGo DNA | Segmented Crash Pad, Omega Flex Grooves | Check Price | |
 | Orthofeet 672 (Men) | Mesh Upper, Tie-Less Lacing System, Heel-Strap, Orthotic-Friendly Design | Orthotic Insoles | Ortho-Cushion™ System | Check Price |
 | Engineered Mesh, Softer Heel Collar | U4ic Foam, Wave Plate | Blown rubber | Check Price | |
 | External Heel Counter, Jacquard Mesh Upper, | Rearfoot Gel, Forefoot Gel, Flytefoam®, TRUSSTIC technology | DUOMAX | Check Price | |
 | Flywire, Flymesh | Nike Zoom Cushioning, Durable | Nike Waffle Sole | Check Price | |
 | Nike Air Zoom Vomero 13 (Men/Women)
| Flywire, Mesh Upper | Nike Zoom Cushioning, Nike Lunarlon | Blown Rubber | Check Price |
1.) ASICS GEL-NIMBUS (Men/Women)-Budget Friendly
Gel Nimbus 18 is considered to be the best running shoes to address the various problem associated with Achilles Tendonitis and has many great features which make it one of the best running shoes for Achilles tendonitis. They feature many technologies for comfortable running the FlyteFoam midsole technology give runners more responsive ride. ASICS shoes are designed to provide proper support especially for the heel and the forefoot cushioning they offer the technology of REARFOOT AND FOREFOOT GEL® Cushioning which is the best feature for the Achilles issues. Read reviews here: Click Here
”More” Fluidfit®: FluidFit™ technology provides a breathable upper which is made up of an elastic and non-elastic part which offers stability and proper comfort. FluidFit™ increases the running efficiency, improve the responsiveness to the foot movement and create a truly customized glove-like fit. Heel Clutching System™ Technology: One of the main reason to add this technology is a heel displacement and when the heel is displaced the shoe tracking becomes weaker. Heel clutching system is designed to improve the fit between the shoe and the heel by restricting the displacement which enhances the performance and stability. Rearfoot Gel Cushioning System®: During running or walking when our heel hits the ground the total weight of our body goes on the heel which is painful for the people suffering from a heel injury. The GEL Cushioning System in the heel attenuates the shock and provides you a responsive and comfortable ride. Forefoot Gel Cushioning System: Decreases the loading forces that would commonly be implemented as the foot moves in momentum. Fluidride®: FLUIDRIDE is the twin-layer structure is made of lightweight Solyte™ and high bounce SpEVA™. When your feet hit the ground, Solyte™ will absorb the impact and while the rebound properties of SpEVA™ enhance flow into the next step. Flytefoam®: It is the midsole foam which is developed in the ASICS Institute of Sports Science, it is not just a little bit lighter but it is 55% lighter than other midsoles in the market they are not only super lightweight, but they also consist of flexible fibers which bring foot closer to the ground on every impact and rebound quickly, providing perfect adaptive cushioning from the start of your run till the end of your run. The Gel Nimbus 19 features a rubber outsole. The outsole of the sneakers uses Asics High-Abrasion Rubber which is placed in the heel of the shoe to improve the durability. The dura sponge outsole is also made up of durable carbon rubber which will enhance the responsiveness and flexibility of the shoe. ”Less”UPPER
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- FluidFit™ technology provides a breathable upper
- Heel clutching system is designed to improve the fit between the shoe and the heel
- Rearfoot Gel Cushioning System in the heel attenuates shock
- Forefoot Gel Cushioning System for the cushioning in the ball of the foot.
- Fluidride for the shock absorption.
- MC Pod construction enables the midsole and outsole for the stable ride
- Narrow toe box (Recommended size 4E for the wide toe box)
- Expensive
- They feel a tad more bulky or heavy
2.) SAUCONY TRIUMPH ISO 4
Saucony Triumph ISO 4 is a neutral running shoe which offers a smooth and comfortable ride with the help of its advanced EVERUN cushioning and support. It is a great shoe that offers all features which are the requirement of a runner with Achilles tendonitis. Its upper is super stretchable and provide amazing support and breathability. The Saucony Ride ISO has an 8mm heel offset, which helps to ease Achilles’ pain. Read reviews here: Click Here
”More” Mesh Upper: Mesh upper enhances the support and breathability which helps with the bad odors and keeps the feet drier as moist evaporate better and helps to reduce the bacterial activity that causes the bad odor. ISOFIT: Saucony uses ISOFIT upper which is a super stretchable material which increases the running efficiency, improve the responsiveness to the foot movement and create a truly customized glove-like fit. EVERUN: Everun gives runner more flexible and more durable ride with a livelier feeling from the first step to last. EVERUN sits between the ground and your foot for the springy takeoffs and provides a highly responsive fit for the runner. The EVERUN midsole is designed to protect the foot from bad impacts and works as a shock absorber. EVERUN offers a resilient ride and offers plush cushioning for the runners who suffer from injury, this material helps to protect them from unwanted muscles discomfort and joint pain. TRI-FLEX: Saucony Tri-Flex outsole that is constructed to provide extra flexibility and natural running cycle. This outsole delivers the right amount of support and traction while running without affecting shoe responsiveness and cushioning. ”Less”UPPER
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- Mesh upper enhances the support and breathability
- ISOFIT which is a super stretchable material to increases the running efficiency
- EVERUN Technology to give a comfortable and cushiony ride.
- TRI-FLEX Technology.
- The fit was narrow in the forefoot and midfoot sections.
3.) HOKA ONE ONE BONDI 5 (Men/Women)
After researching a lot about best running shoes for Achilles tendonitis on facebook groups we found that 80% to 90% people really love Hoka One One Bondi 5 for Achilles tendonitis injury. So I’m going to tell you everything that you need to know about the Hoka One One Bondi 5.
Hoka One One is very well known for that cloud-like feel in all of the running shoes. However, the Bondi 5 is a game changer in the Bondi legacy being the most cushioned shoe in all of HOKAS row specific lineup. It is designed for hard surfaces. The Bondi 5 offers a ton of updates, so don’t limit your runs now, the improved rubber placement on the outsole provides better long-term durability so you’ll run with confidence. Read reviews here: Click Here
Now comfort is simply not an issue with this shoe, you will not get any Achilles rubbing in these shoes. Thanks to the Hoka EVA midsole, the meta rocker technology, and the updated comfort frame upper and padded tongue. Your feet might feel like they’re on vacation.
Plus the Bondi 5 dropped a lot of weight compared to its previous version you’ll enjoy the same level of comfort but with the benefit of those quick take offs. Hoka added a more accommodating toe box and significantly different style for the Bondi 5, it’s much edgier.
Remember you can run in these shoes for 90 days so if you don’t like them simply send them back. I want to make sure you get the perfect shoe for you.
”More” Air Mesh – Air Mesh material is breathable which keeps the feet drier as moist evaporate better and helps to reduce the bacterial activity that causes the bad odor. 3D Puff Print Frame – Overlays of 3D Puff Print allow the upper to wrap the entire foot for a comfortable and secure fit. Due to its 3d Puff Print technology the upper wrap your foot in a luxurious feel, with the capability to move and expand your stride. The Adjustable Saddle works in conjunction with the 3d Print overlays to offer comfortable and solid feel. EVA Midsole: EVA material is made up of thousands of tiny bubbles joined together during walking when they are compressed they provide fantastic shock absorption and cushioning as many customers said that shoes with EVA midsole provide an amazing comfort as they are walking and running on clouds and that’s why this comfort level makes it an excellent material for any footwear. Meta-Rocker: Meta rocker has 2 categories: early-stage and late-stage early-stage Meta-Rocker, the transition zone is placed behind the metatarsal heads. This helps create a smoother ride and a faster transition to the forefoot. Styles with a late-stage Meta-Rocker have the transition zone placed in front of the metatarsal heads, which provides a more stable base of forefoot support. J-Frame™: J-Frame™ support your foot without the use of heavy or rigid material. J-frame support inside of your heel and foot and provide the stability. Rubber -The Bondi 5 outsole is made up of rubber that is much lighter and offers better traction than other track outsoles on the market. ”Less”UPPER
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- Breathable upper
- 3d Puff Print technology the upper wrap your foot in a luxurious feel
- EVA midsole for amazing comfort and cushioning
- Meta-Rocker for a stable ride and forefoot support
- J-frame support your foot and provide stability
- The price of the Bondi 5 is quite expensive.
4.) NEW BALANCE FRESH FOAM 1080 V7
The New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 V7 is a neutral running shoe excellent on the track terrains, gravel and road. The New Balance 1080 comes with mesh and fantom fit upper to deliver good comfort and breathability. It has EVA Fresh Foam to provide a smooth, comfortable and cushiony ride. Ndurance Rubber is used in lateral and heel portion for maximum durability used in high wear areas.
”More” Mesh Upper: Mesh upper keeps your feet dry and comfortable. When you walk and run, air is circulated through the mesh material which allows the skin to keep breathing and keeps your feet dry and your sneakers humidity free. Fantom Fit: The Fantom Fit technology, a skeletally engineered upper which provides the high level of support and breathability which is made up of lightweight synthetic performance mesh and a thicker, supportive synthetic layers which enhance the comfort and breathability while maintaining the lightweight. EVA Fresh Foam: EVA fresh foam is highly useful for the footwear most of the shoes offer EVA midsole to provide better cushioning and stability. It helps to protect the foot from sharp objects or feeling hard and reduce the impact of hard landings and provide you with an amazing experience for walking and running. For personal customization, the shoe also offers the feature of a removable insole. The shoe is made of two types of rubber. Blown Rubber Outsole: One type of rubber is made of Blown Rubber. New balance uses durable blown carbon rubber for the outsole. The brown rubber pods and the coverage of tracky carbon rubber on the outsole make shoes more responsive for the users and provides an extensive amount of shock absorption and stabilizing. NDURANCE Rubber: The other rubber featured in the outsole is a specially designed Ndurance Rubber for maximum durability used in high wear areas. Omega Flex Grooves: Omega Flex Grooves allow some good flexibility, for more natural forefoot movement and fluidity. ”Less”UPPER
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- Fantom fit upper to enhance the comfort and breathability
- EVA fresh foam for amazing cushioning experience
- Ndurance Rubber for maximum durability used in high wear areas
- Omega flex grooves for more natural forefoot movement and fluidity.
- Some customers found it a bit narrow.
- Some customers complained about lack of cushion and support.
5.) BROOKS GHOST (Men/Women)
Brooks Ghost 10 upper is made up of mesh material which helps to maintain the comfort, durability, and breathability its Gore-Tex membrane delivers waterproof protection. Its DNA Loft & BioMoGo DNA technology can provide you amazing cushioning this means that your Achilles’ won’t be stressed as much, which will help decrease soreness and pain. Its segmented crash pad technology absorbs the shocks when your feet hit the ground. Brooks Ghost has a prominent midsole drop of 12mm, which will help to relieve pressure on your tendon.
”More” Mesh Upper: Engineered upper which provides a high level of support and breathability. Gore-Tex®: To keep your feet dry the Gore-Tex membrane delivers waterproof protection and high breathability which keeps the feet drier and helps to reduce the bacterial activity. DNA Loft & BioMoGo DNA: DNA Loft is for runners, actually they want the ultra soft running experience without an extra weight because extra weight holding them back. DNA Loft offers ultra soft running experience without extra weight, provide runners a smooth and comfortable ride. BioMoGo DNA midsole offers customized cushioning and offers 30% more cushioning than any other midsoles (Gel or EVA). DNA Loft & BioMoGo DNA cushioning work together to provide the right amount of softness underfoot without losing durability and responsiveness. Segmented Crash Pad: Brooks uses a segmented crash pad which is made up of a fully integrated shock absorber to provide the best cushioning and smooth heel to toe transition throughout the run. Omega Flex Grooves: Omega Flex Grooves allow some good flexibility, for more natural forefoot movement and fluidity. ”Less”UPPER
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Pros
- Gore-Tex membrane delivers waterproof protection and high breathability
- DNA Loft is for runners for ultra soft running experience
- BioMoGo DNA midsole offers customized cushioning and offers 30% more cushioning
- Segmented crash pad to provide the best cushioning and smooth heel to toe transition
- Omega flex groove for more natural forefoot movement
Cons
- Some customers didn’t like the quality of the shoe.
6.) ORTHOFEET 672 MEN’S NO LACE COMFORT ATHLETIC SHOE
Orthofeet 672 are specially designed for the common foot problems, these shoes come with amazing orthotic insoles and ergonomic soles to correct overpronation and help to reduce the stress on the tendon. Orthofeet also has an orthotic-friendly design and soft padded collar to relieve the stress on the back of the heel.
”More” Mesh Upper: Mesh upper keeps your feet dry and comfortable. Tie-Less Lacing System: Tie-Less Lacing System eliminates the need for tying laces and incorporates laces with Velcro straps. Heel-Strap: The shoe also has additional velcro straps that help to mold the shoe to your heel. It grips your foot nicely and enhances your performance. Orthotic-Friendly Design: The product comes with the orthotic-friendly design with removable insoles that are ¼” thick in the forefoot area Orthotic Insoles: The product comes with the amazing orthotic insoles which are made up of antimicrobial fabric & foam which provides amazing arch support, unmatched cushioning for the superior comfort and protection for the sensitive feet and also provide heel pain relief for the extra comfort, support and shock absorption for the heel. Ortho-Cushion™ System: Orthofeet outsole is made up of Rubber with the technology of Ortho-Cushion System with the Air pockets which adds spring and soften your every next step. The Ortho-Cushion System is biomechanically designed to eliminate the stress on the joints, helps to facilitate foot motion and improve stability. ”Less”UPPER
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- Breathable upper
- Tie lacing system
- Heel strap
- Orthotic friendly design
- Ortho cushion system
- Some customers said that they are heavy.
- They run small.
7.) MIZUNO’S WAVE RIDER 18(MEN / WOMEN)
Mizuno’s Wave Rider 18 is one of the best running shoes for Achilles tendonitis injury which will improve your athletic performance and provide you with excellent support. They offer the best arch support, stability, comfort, heel cushioning and required heel to drop.
”More” The breathable upper part of the Wave Inspire 11 is softer and more comfortable as compared to its previous models. Engineered Mesh: Engineered mesh upper enhances the support and breathability which helps with the bad odors and keeps the feet drier as moist evaporate better and helps to reduce the bacterial activity that causes the bad odor. Softer Heel Collar: Softer heel collar helps avoid irritation without losing heel fit. U4ic Foam: Regular shoes use EVA midsole for the arch support but in 2013 Mizuno released U4ic (pronounced, “Euphoric”). It is the latest and 30% lighter than AP+ (previous technology) which provide amazing support. It is much better and responsive than other midsoles on the market. Wave Plate: These are ‘stability’ type of shoes. These shoes will work for you if your feet have slightly regular, low or flat arches. Mizuno’s provides Wave plate technology. So what is Wave plate? It is the plastic plate in the midsole of their sneakers which looks like the wave, and almost all Mizuno shoes have some Wave plate. What is the benefit of Wave plate? The benefit of Wave plate is that it acts as a shock absorber, the wave plate will absorb shocks and disperse it throughout the length of the plate. Wave plate in the midsole helps to keep the foot stable and maintain the rigidity in the arch and heel. Blown rubber is present everywhere in the outsole except the heel portion in which they use a unique crash pad to protect the high impact area of the foot when it touches the ground. ”Less”UPPER
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- Breath Thermo technology to keep your foots warm in cold weather
- Arctic Touch garment that suspends the moisture and heat of the body
- U4ic Foam technology which is lightweight and responsive
- Wave Plate Technolgy to absorb shocks
- Not wide enough
- Uses a standard tongue instead of a more comfortable sockliner.
- It takes time to break in.
8.) ASICS GEL-KAYANO(MEN/ WOMEN)
ASICS GEL-KAYANO is one of the ultra-soft motion control running shoes. The shoe is meant for the overpronators runners which control the pronation and provide high heel and forefoot cushioning which saves the runner from every bad impact on the heel and forefoot which makes it one of the best running shoes for Achilles tendonitis injury and pain.
”More” External Heel Counter: The heel counter is a little plastic insert which is covered from both sides. External heel counter offers maximum support and the padded collar around the ankle gently keeps your heel in place JACQUARD MESH UPPER: All new jacquard mesh upper offers a breathable, flexible upper and decreases irritation causing wrinkles. Rearfoot Gel Cushioning System®: The GEL Cushioning System in the heel attenuates the shock and provides you with a responsive and comfortable ride. Forefoot Gel Cushioning System: Decreases the loading forces that would commonly be implemented as the foot moves in momentum. Flytefoam® & FLYTEFOAM™ PROPEL: It is the midsole foam which is developed in the ASICS Institute of Sports Science, it is not just a little bit lighter but it is 55% lighter than other midsoles in the market they are not only super lightweight, but they also consist of flexible fibers which bring foot closer to the ground on every impact and rebound quickly, providing perfect adaptive cushioning from the start of your run till the end of your run. Flytefoam™ Propel is the newest foam to provide smooth, responsive and ultra shock absorption ride. GUIDANCE TRUSSTIC: Our foot twist in various directions while walking and running. The TRUSSTIC technology is used in the midsole to prevent the shoes from twisting during sports, walking and running and improve the stability of the shoes by preventing excessive shoe twisting. DUOMAX: This technology is designed for overpronators. DUOMAX technology control overpronation and supports your foot on impact as it rolls inward. ”Less”UPPER
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- External heel counter and padded collar to provide maximum support and comfort
- Jacquard mesh upper
- Rearfoot and Forefoot Gel Cushioning System
- Flytefoam® and Flytefoam™ Propel to provide smooth, responsive and ultra shock absorption ride
- Guidance Trusstic to prevent excessive shoe twisting
- Duomax technology for overpronators
- Some customers experienced heel pain.
- Heavier than average.
9.) NIKE AIR ZOOM PEGASUS 33 (Men/Women)
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 33 is one of the best neutral running sneakers in the market for running and walking. It is one of the best shoes which provide good support for arch and offer amazing cushioning technology known as Nike Zoom Cushioning. The shoe offers amazing breathability, solid traction, a must-have versatility and a head-turner for looks. Its amazing performance has made a good impression on the runners.
”More” Flywire: Nike uses “flywire” cables on the upper of the shoes which work like cables on a suspension bridge to provide the support exactly where it is required. Flywire filaments attached with the outsole which holds your foot in one place. Flymesh: Flymesh or engineered mesh is more flexible, lightweight, breathable and durable as compared to the normal mesh materials. Flymesh material is breathable which keeps the feet drier as moist evaporate better and helps to reduce the bacterial activity that causes the bad odor. This shoe is for neutral trainers that they plan on running a lot of miles in, the shoe provides a responsive and smoother ride which makes your ride more comfortable. Nike Zoom Cushioning: Nike Zoom Cushioning is the part of Nike Air family it is lightweight, durable and very thin, it is consist of flexible fibers which brings foot closer to the ground on every impact and rebound quickly which provides the super-responsive feel and enhances the stability. Durable: Normal runners and walkers need the cushioning for long last in their shoes. Nike air cushioning will provide you with constant cushioning and support throughout the life of the shoes. The Nike Waffle Sole is a rubber outsole that is much lighter and offers better traction than other track outsoles on the market. The shoes are constructed with a sleek rubber that makes the shoe light weighted more than many other shoes. ”Less”UPPER
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- Flywire filaments attached with the outsole which holds your foot in one place
- Flymesh material is breathable which keeps the feet drier
- Nike Zoom Cushioning for a comfortable ride
- Durable
- Some customers said pegasus 35 has irregular padding and puts uneven pressure on their foot
- Laces were difficult to adjust
10.) NIKE AIR ZOOM VOMERO 13 (Men/Women)
The Nike Air Zoom Vomero is well cushioned neutral road running shoes. This great looking shoe has padded collar, Zoom cushioning for amazing comfort and soft landings and in the heel and forefoot, Nike Zoom Air units add springs to the wearer’s step. You should give it a try for Achilles pain.
”More” FLYWIRE: Flywire filaments attached with the outsole which work like cables on a suspension bridge to provide the support and holds your foot in one place. Mesh Upper: Mesh material is breathable and helps to reduce the bacterial activity that causes the bad odor. Padded Collar: Padded collar and tongue to provide support and cushioning. Nike Zoom Cushioning: Nike Zoom Cushioning is consist of flexible fibers which brings foot closer to the ground on every impact and rebound quickly for softer landings. Nike Lunarlon: The Lunarlon midsole is incredibly lightweight sport-specific cushioning. In the heel and forefoot, Nike Zoom Air units add springs to the wearer’s step. BLOWN RUBBER: Nike uses durable blown carbon rubber for the outsole. This outsole delivers the right amount of support and traction while walking or running on the road without affecting shoe responsiveness and cushioning. ”Less”UPPER
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- Flywire to support and holds your foot in one place
- Mesh upper and padded collar to give support and cushioning.
- Nike Zoom cushioning for softer landings
- Nike Lunarlon for sport-specific cushioning
- Some customers felt that the forefoot area is a bit narrow.
- Takes time to break in.
CRITERIA USED TO EVALUATE THE BEST RUNNING SHOES FOR ACHILLES TENDONITIS
Shoe therapy is one of the best therapy and most preferable method for the Achilles tendon injury. After doing research on the criteria for the best running shoes for Achilles tendonitis we found the most important factors which you should consider before buying any shoe. The main intention is to reduce the continuous stress on the tendon which is possible only when your shoes can provide the required comfort. If shoes do not have the following criteria then you should not include them on your personal choices. The best running shoes for Achilles tendonitis should have the following features:
ARCH SUPPORT
Choosing the right shoe for the Achilles tendon is necessary for foot health. Choose the shoes which can provide the good arch support because it has the direct link with the Achilles tendonitis. And if you are a runner you should notice that whether you are an overpronator or under-pronator. When foot rolls inward more than fifteen percent it is called as “overpronation.” It means the foot and ankle have problems stabilizing the body, and shocks aren’t absorbed as efficiently. Overpronation causes stress and tightness in the muscles, so do some extra stretching. Too much motion of the foot can cause calluses, bunions, runner’s knee, plantar fasciitis, and Achilles tendinitis.
If you’re an overpronator, here are a few tips which will help you find the right shoes for your feet.
-Wear shoes with straight or semi-curved lasts
-Look for motion-control or stability shoes with firm, multi-density midsoles and external control features that limit pronation
-Use over-the-counter orthotics or arch supports
High arch is a rigid foot which sits higher from the ground. Well defined arch. Excessive pressure to rearfoot and forefoot. It results in heel pain, arch stain and claw. So if you are an underpronator you always look at a shoe with a lot of cushioning.
Heel Cushioning
Investing in the shoes with good heel cushioning can save your heel from bad impacts and provide support and comfort to your heel during walking and running. More cushioning is preferred for running and high impact activities. If your Achilles tendon feels pain after sports or running then you should take it seriously before the condition get worse.
The shoes which we mentioned are the best running shoes for Achilles tendonitis. Every shoe has its own comfort level and protects you from stress and further injuries. Some brands are offering Gel cushioning, some are offering air cushioning and some are providing foam cushioning. All of the brands provide maximum shock absorption and always protect your heel from the bad impact to provide you a smooth and comfortable ride.
Heel Drop
Heel Drop is the most important factor that you can’t ignore. Research shows that shoes with the proper heel lift can help to reduce the Achilles tendonitis, and the condition may get worse faster with low heeled running shoes. You should avoid low heeled shoes and stick to more traditional shoes with a higher heel until your tendon get healthy again. The proper heel height of shoes for Achilles tendonitis should not be too low or too high. The proper heel height of the shoes should be slightly high (8mm+) and should provide enough support to the heel and can help take the tension off your Achilles tendon while you walk, run or perform other physical activities so that feet can move easily. But in few cases, low heel drop works well for a patient as compared to high heel tot toe drop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.) What are the causes of Achilles tendonitis?
A.) Achilles tendonitis is caused by a continuous repetition of activity involving the Achilles tendon. This tendon is used commonly when you run, walk, jump and doing some exercises which put extra stress on the Achilles tendon. Due to this continuous stress on tendon, it can become inflamed and lead to the painful condition called Achilles tendonitis.
These causes also can give you this kind of injury:
- Overpronation causes stress and tightness in the muscles, too much motion of the foot can cause the Achilles tendonitis.
- Wearing high heels daily or for the long period of time can stress the tendon.
- Due to weak or tight calf muscles.
- Stair climbing or hill climbing also put stress on the tendon.
- Rapidly increasing the amount or intensity of exercise.
Q.) How do you know if you have damaged your Achilles tendon?
A.) Common symptoms of Achilles tendonitis include:
- You might experience pain, soreness, and stiffness in the morning.
- Severe pain the day after exercising.
- The skin on your heel overly warm to the touch.
- Swelling in the back side of your heel after running, walking or exercising.
- Pain increases when climbing or running for a long time.
Q.) My new shoes are hurting my skin over Achilles tendon.
A.) If your shoes are made up of leather then make it smooth by rubbing the area from the sandpaper and after rubbing you can use the oil of nut or mustard to make it softer. There are some other hacks also to help you find relief in all of your shoes.
Double Socks: Try wearing thinner socks before wearing your normal socks so the two socks can slide over one another and can reduce the amount of friction on the skin.
Moleskin: Cut a piece of moleskin and put it on the ankle area or on the heel area to reduce the rubbing.
Duct Tape: You can also use duct tape to reduce the friction and rubbing.
Q.) How long does it take to recover from a ruptured Achilles tendon?
A.) Once you have an Achilles tendon injury, it takes time to recover ruptured Achilles tendon some people need several weeks usually 6 to 8 weeks and for athletes to return to sport it takes 4 to 12 months. It is the slow healing process, the condition will get worse from overusing the tendon like continued running and playing.
Q.) Can I keep running with Achilles tendonitis?
A.) Keep running with the damaged tendon makes the condition worse. The first step you should take to modify your running program by decreasing the distance, decreasing the number of session per week or reducing your hills and stairs running. Running in normal routine can also increase swelling around the tendon which interferes with healing. Don’t increase your running until you have the go-ahead from your therapist and doctor, or you could re-injure your Achilles tendon.
Q.) How do I prevent Achilles tendonitis while running?
A.) There are some exercises and stretching for Achilles’ tendons but the best way to prevent yourself from Achilles tendonitis while running is to choose the best running shoes for Achilles tendonitis. Investing in a proper shoe can save you from a lot of pain and injury. So do yourself a favor and get proper running shoes.