If you are working toward becoming a runner, you should know that the impact of running on hard surfaces can lead to shin splints which is intense pain in your lower leg. While there are medical measures you can take to alleviate the condition, a practical remedy is getting the best shoes for shin splints.
These shoes will help relieve some of the pressure on your legs for enhanced performance. This post reviews the best shoes on the market and the factors that should guide your choice.
Enjoy!
1. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21
- THIS MEN'S SHOE IS FOR: Runners looking for a supportive shoe that's soft and smooth, the Adrenaline GTS 21 offers an improved ride and reliable support for however your body moves so you can forget...
- SUPPORT AND CUSHION: Provides just the right amount of stability and support, great for overpronation while providing high energizing cushioning. Ideal for road running, cross training, the gym or...
- BALANCED, SOFT CUSHIONING: The DNA LOFT Crash Pad cushions each footfall and works with BioMoGo DNA to adapt to your every stride.
- MODERNIZED FIT: A streamlined, engineered mesh upper with 3D Fit Print offers the structure and proven fit the Adrenaline is known for-without excess bulk.
- GUIDERAILS HOLISTIC SUPPORT SYSTEM: We've shifted our focus beyond the feet to the most injury-prone part of a runner’s body: the knees. GuideRails keep you moving comfortably by keeping excess...
First on our list of the best shoes for shin splints is the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21, soft and smooth running shoes that can provide reliable support. If you are looking for a pair of shoes that can enhance your performance by reducing pressure on your legs, these shoes will do that. They provide the optimal amount of support and cushioning to add energy and bounce to each step you take.
The Brooks Adrenaline running shoes are great for cross-training, workouts, road running, and other intensive activities. With the BioMoGo DNA loft cushions, you can rest assured that this shoe delivers shock absorption to reduce direct impact to your feet.
Plus, it features an engineered mesh upper which helps deliver an ideal fit. The streamlined design works with the lightweight build to ensure you don't feel bulky or weighed down by these shoes.
This shoe doesn't focus on just the feet but tries to reduce the chances of injuring other parts of your legs to keep you moving comfortably.
2. New Balance Fresh Foam Running Shoe
- Cushioned Running Shoes for Every Runner: Part of the Fresh Foam X collection, these shoes use our latest advancements in data to design to deliver precise plushness exactly where you need it
- Support and Durability: This shoe features a Hypoknit upper designed to provide strategic areas of stretch and support, in addition to a blown rubber outsole for impressive durability
- Perfect Fit: These comfortable running shoes include a bootie upper construction and an Ultra Heel design, both of which hug the back of the foot for a snug, supportive fit
- Breathable and Lightweight Running Shoes: The supportive engineered knit upper includes synthetic and mesh materials for amazing breathability during runs of any distance
- Keep Your Feet Comfortable: The Ortholite sockliner in these performance running shoes helps keep your feet feeling fresh as you power through your toughest runs
The New Balance is among the best running shoes for those looking to avoid shin splints. These shoes are designed with the latest advancements in their construction to ensure they feel soft and plush in the right places. As you run or walk in these shoes, you'll notice the high responsiveness that will motivate you to keep going.
The Hypoknit upper on this shoe delivers stretch and support in specific areas to ensure your feet feel well-supported. At the same time, the rubber outsole makes this shoe among the most durable on the market, with low chances of slips or falls. This makes the Fresh Foam a great shoe for shin splints and other foot-related discomforts.
If it's the fit you are looking for, you'll be glad to know that the bootie upper works with the ultra heel design to hug every part of your foot. This delivers a snug fit that ensures this shoe tight enough for an explosive performance without falling off.
The materials used to make the knit upper provide ideal breathability for your feet. As a result, you won't have to endure excessively sweaty feet as you run across long distances since these shoes allow sweat and heat to escape. This provides a cool and comfortable environment inside the shoe to keep you comfortable enough to run for miles.
3. HOKA ONE ONE Arahi 4 Running Shoe
Another great option is the HOKA ONE ONE Arahi 4 Running shoe, which features a stripped-back upper that gives a refined and lightweight feel to your feet. Even if you want ideal running shoes for shin, there's no reason to choose a pair of ugly shoes. This HOKA ONE ONE pair looks stylish and sporty, which can help boost your confidence when running.
The upper is designed to deliver structural support to ensure you don't develop any foot pain in addition to your shin splints. Since the synthetic material on the upper is made to be breathable, you can say goodbye to sweaty feet when wearing these shoes. You can prevent shin splints with these shoes, but that's not all you could do with them since they also provide a smooth ride thanks to the Meta-Rocker feature.
You won't feel weighed down by these shoes even though they are designed to deliver support since they have a firm EVA J-Frame that is strong and lightweight. As you wear this pair, rest assured you'll feel inherently stable as you move from place to place.
4. Brooks Ghost 13 Running Shoe
- THIS MEN'S SHOE IS FOR: The Ghost 13 is for runners looking for a reliable shoe that's soft and smooth. The Ghost 13 offers improved transitions for zero distractions so you can focus more on what...
- SUPPORT AND CUSHION: The neutral support type provides high energizing cushioning. Ideal for road running, cross training, the gym or wherever you might want to take them! Predecessor: Ghost 12
- BALANCED, SOFT CUSHIONING: BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT cushioning work together to provide a just-right softness underfoot without losing responsiveness and durability - yet it feels lighter than ever.
- SMOOTH, STABLE RIDE: No matter how your foot lands, our Segmented Crash Pad - an integrated system of shock absorbers - will cushion every step and stride for smooth heel-to-toe transitions.
- SOFT, SECURE, FIT: The newly engineered mesh and 3D Fit Print practically disappears on your foot with strategically placed stretch and structure.
The Brooks Ghost 13 Running Shoe is meant for people looking for a soft and smooth stability shoe. It's a great choice if you are battling a shin splint since it can improve your movement transitions as you run to ensure you are working at peak condition.
With neutral support, the Ghost 13 Running Shoe, Brooks, can deliver an energizing cushioning that will make cross-training, road running, or exercising a great experience. So, this neutral shoe will help with shin splints and add bounce to your movements, making it a great running shoe for long-distance races.
The Brook Ghost 13 also features BioMoGo DNA and DNA loft cushioning, which combine to deliver the softness you need for responsive and energetic performance with a lightweight feel. That is why these are among the best running shoes for shin splints you can buy.
Additionally, the Segmented Crash Pad comprising several shock absorbers ensures that you'll have smooth heel-to-toe transitions and ideal cushioning for your strides. The engineered mesh will stretch and contour to the shape of your fit for a perfect fit.
5. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 22 Running Shoes
- Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Technology Cushioning System - Attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle.
- Engineered monofilament upper -
- FlyteFoam Propel Technology - ASICS energetic foam formulation that provides supreme bounce thanks to a unique elastomer compound.
- EVA Sockliner - Removable sockliner that provides cushioning performance.
- Lightweight AHAR outsole -
The ASICS Gel Nimbus 22 are among the best shoes on the market for lower leg pain, which is the primary symptom of shin splints. These shoes come with GEL Cushioning Technology with shock absorption capabilities that ensure you won't feel any discomfort upon impact when wearing them.
With FlyteFoam Propel Midsole technology, you can enjoy a powerful bounce with each step, thanks to the foam formulation. This ensures that you feel well-cushioned and motivated enough to maintain your pace. The ASICS High Abrasion Rubber is specially designed to increase the durability and enhance the performance of this shoe.
This shoe also comes with an EVA sock liner which adds more cushioning to alleviate inflammation and pain in your legs.
6. Saucony Triumph 18
- PWRRUN+ midsole cushioning provides more flexibility, durability, and springiness in a foam that’s 25% lighter
- New midsole geometry makes for a snappier ride
- New blown rubber outsole makes for a snappier ride and increases durability and traction
- TRIFLEX design makes for quick transitions and enhances flexibility
- Engineered mesh upper with 3D Print overlays provides strategic flexibility and structure
Next on our list of the best shoes for shin splints is the Saucony Triumph 18, featuring PWRRUN technology and midsole cushioning, which deliver flexibility and springiness. This makes it easier to make quick responsive movements as you run around.
The midsole inside this shoe is made with new geometry to provide a smooth ride. You can enjoy a comfortable fit since the engineered mesh upper stretches around your feet to deliver a cozy snug. The TRIFLEX design delivers a better feel for quick transitions without any fear of the shoe falling off.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Shoes for Shin Splints
1. Shock Absorption
The ability to absorb shock is a crucial feature to look for in running shoes for people with a shin splint. This is because the movement involved in running delivers direct impact to your feet, making your shin splint worse.
As such, the best shoes for shin splints should deliver optimal shock absorption to ensure you don't feel the impact you make with the ground as you run. If you take shoes that don't have shock-absorbing capabilities, you'll pay the price by enduring intense pain in your legs.
That is why you want to ensure that the shoe is specially designed to deal with shin splints. In doing so, you will ensure your comfort, which will allow you to run for as long as necessary.
2. Stability
The next thing you want in your shoes is ample stability since running requires you to maintain some degree of balance if you don't want to fall. One of the factors that determine stability is the design of the outsole. Firstly, you want the soles to be wide enough to provide the balance you need.
Secondly, you should check the materials used to construct the sole. The ideal material for the soles is rubber since it provides enough grip and traction when running. Additionally, the tread pattern should be prominent to prevent unnecessary slips.
3. Comfort
Whether you are running across short or long distances, you should go with shoes that are comfortable enough for your feet. If you are suffering from shin splints, you don't want to place additional stress on your body by wearing uncomfortable shoes.
The only thing that such an action will achieve is making it harder for you to maintain your pace. So, you'll want a shoe with a soft and plush EVA midsole or a resilient cushioning material. This will help you reduce the pressure on your feet, which can help you run faster in the competition.
4. Breathability
If you are spending hours in those running shoes, you'll want them to be as breathable as possible. This means that the upper should allow an exchange of air and moisture from your feet. As a result, you'll keep a cool and dry environment in your shoe, which adds to your comfort.
A shoe with a mesh upper will deliver the breathability you need. As a result, you won't feel sweaty or wet with your feet inside the shoes, which can help you feel cozy enough to keep running. Otherwise, your feet could keep slipping inside the shoe, which could compromise your performance.
5. Durability
The best running shoes designed to prevent shin splints should be a long-lasting solution to your running needs. You don't want to invest in a pair that only survives through a few sessions before wearing out. That's why it's essential to consider the longevity of the shoes.
The materials used to make the shoe are the primary determinants of its durability. Unfortunately, some of the most resilient materials come at a higher price than standard shoe materials. So, you'll want to ensure you avoid taking the cheapest option before verifying how long it can last.
6. Support
One of the causes of shin splints is the lack of ideal arch support. This is usually the case, especially for athletes with high arches. As such, you'll want to go with shoes that provide the support you require to prevent your feet or legs from developing pain after intense activities.
Before you buy the shoe, you'll need to know your foot type. After you do, you should look for the features that will make it easier for you to wear the shoes longer. A padded heel collar can also add to the support your feet need for ideal performance.
7. Toe Box Width
While the toe box can provide protection from direct impact with any objects on the running track, it can also be a cause of discomfort if it's narrower than your foot. You'll want to check the width of the toe box to see whether your foot will comfortably fit.
Unfortunately, different brands use different measurement standards, so there isn't a definitive way of determining fit. You might need to size up or down a whole or half size to find the best fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best running shoes for shin splints?
The best running shoes for shin splints on this review are the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 running shoes.
2. Do shoes affect shin splints?
Since shin splints are caused by the prolonged impact on your legs, a shoe with ample cushioning and shock absorption can reduce the severity of shin splints.
3. What is the fastest way to heal shin splints?
The first thing to do is reduce the level of activity you handle to let your body heal. Additionally, you can ice your shin to alleviate the pain and use orthotics insoles to your shoes.
