Best Athletic Shoes For Lower Back Pain

Being an athlete, lower back pain is a serious problem. It can be due to overexertion and other factors. But did you know that even the kind of shoes you wear can affect your back? Yes, you read it right. The shoes you wear can end up restricting calf and thigh movement, and the muscles in your lower back feel the impact of this. 

Choosing the best shoes for lower back pain from the hundred options available in the market can be a daunting task. Also, if you grab shoes for lower back pain that doesn't suit properly, it can increasingly affect your body and cause muscular imbalances in your back.

Here in this article, I have come up with a list of best Athletic shoes for lower back pain. I have suggested shoes for both women and men, so choose the ideal one start running towards your goal with full confidence and might.

LIST OF THE BEST ATHLETIC SHOES FOR LOWER BACK PAIN

10 BEST ATHLETIC SHOES FOR LOWER BACK PAIN REVIEWS

1. UNDERARMOUR ASSERT 8

The Underarmour brand was born way back in the year 1990, and they started with their first line of shoes in the year 2009. They have been endorsed by world-class athletes like Stephen Curry, who regularly use it in his games.

This brand provides some of the best quality sportswear, and you can be assured that you're getting a product that is completely worth your money. It is famous for their trademark design that makes their shoes very light.

They are made for runners who need a balance of flexibility & cushioning to ensure that they do not have to experience any body ache, especially the lower back pain, which is why they're on top of the list of the best athletic shoes for lower back pain. 

If you are someone who work for long hour then your feet might cause back pain. Changing your shoes can potentially make a huge difference. Whether you are at work or at gym or running errands, wearing the right shoes for back pain, will help you to get the support needed for your back.

Overall, the company has been true to manufacturing the right pair of shoes that prevent athletes from suffering any kind of injuries. A big thumbs up!

Features:

  • It is equipped with a lightweight mesh that is available in three different color choices.
  • It comes with well-designed leather overlays that lock up you’re midfoot during a run.
  • This overlay is durable and not easily broken.
  • The EVA sockliner that this shoe comes with is soft and comfortable
  • With a charged cushioning midsole that is made of molded foam, your feet will be comfortable.
  • This running shoe has a solid rubber outsole that covers the high impact areas.
  • The shoe is less voluminous, and the material is durable.

Pros

  • Breathable fabric.
  • Flexibility and comfort are well balanced.
  • Absorbs the impact of the shock.
  • Help keep a steady midfoot.
  • Has a high level of responsiveness and durability.

Cons

  • The portion around the ankle is bit rigid.

2. ASICS GEL VENTURE SEVEN RUNNING SHOES

Asics is an internationally renowned Japanese sportswear brand that started producing high-quality sports equipment and shoes in 1977.

Their slogan is a Latin phrase anima sana in corpore Sano, which means "Healthy soul in a healthy body". This accurately represents the lifestyle they are trying to promote and indicates a high level of moral integrity.

The GEL-Venture 7 is a great fit for running and for everyday use as well. It comes with a well designed Rearfoot GEL Cushioning,  which helps in protecting the feet, ankles and back of all athletes from all kinds of injuries and pain.

The rugged build can sustain itself on almost any terrain, which is why these shoes hold the second position in the best athletic shoes for lower back pain list.

Features:

  • Equipped with outsole rubber from AHAR that covers critical impact areas. 
  • It comes with a removable sockliner which can equip medical orthotics..
  • Best rearfoot cushioning with GEL technology.
  • The outsole is specifically built for outdoor trails. 
  • Also, the outsole has reversed traction lugs. 
  • Rearfoot cushioning absorbs all the impact.

Pros

  • The mesh on top makes it outdoor ready.
  • Having a removable sock liner makes it easy to clean.
  • It is designed to mold to the shape of your feet.
  • The AHAR rubber makes it extremely durable.

Cons

  • Parts start to peel away with time.

3. NEW BALANCE FRESH FOAM ROAV V1 SNEAKER

New Balance is one of America's oldest sports footwear and apparel brands, and they have been making some of the finest shoes for more than a hundred years.

They were founded in 1906 in Boston and their slogan 'Fearlessly Independent Since 1906' represents the American ingenuity they put into anything their brand manufactures. They have a sizable market in the United Kingdom as well.

The fresh foam midsole gives you good comfort while wearing it. The endurance rubber outsole technology promises superior durability in high-wear areas.  

If you have hip or lower back pain then the most important feature you have to look for is "cushioning". Shoes designed for hip pain should have considerably more cushioning than running shoes or those with high arches. 

Overall, this pair of shoes perfectly blends plush comfort and lightweight soles, that prevents all kinds of spinal pain from affecting any athlete. 

Features:

  • Uniquely designed to have a boldly attractive casual look. 
  • They are equipped with plush fresh foam midsoles.
  • The outsole is completely covered in a layer of high-quality rubber.
  • Unique visual design for heels.
  • The ultra heel has been designed to give a snug fit.
  • There is an approximate eight-inch drop between the heel and toe.
  • The fresh foam in the midsole is precision engineered.

Pros

  • The plush midsoles are easy on the feet.
  • The durable rubber outsole ensures that your sneakers last for a long time.
  • The ultra heel’s unique design makes your shoe stand out.
  • It is super light and won’t slow you down.
  • The snug heel ensures that your foot is comfortable the whole day.

Cons

  • Slippery rear portion.

4. BROOKS ADRENALINE GTS 20

Brooks Sports is headquartered in Seattle and was founded in 1914, which means that they have been in the business of manufacturing and selling high-performance sneakers, clothing, and accessories for a long time.

They have been a top seller in the specialty running market for quite some time, and they have been named the best in several prestigious sports magazines. Their shoes are made for people that enjoy running, and this is seen in their slogan, “Run happy.”

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20 is specifically designed for runners that look for support, cushion, flexibility, and reliability in their running shoes. 

This is why they have an assured place in the list of the best athletic shoes for lower back pain. They have the knack to support an athlete's body completely while he or she runs; this takes away a great deal of stress and pain from the back. 

Features:

  • Made with a modernized, streamlined design. 
  • It has a tasteful low profile look. 
  • Comes with well-cushioned soles.
  • It has a 3D printed fit on the structure that cuts out the bulk.
  • Guide rails restrict unnecessary movements.
  • Equipped with BioMoGo DNA
  • Features state of the art DNA LOFT Crash Pad.

Pros

  • The DNA LOFT Crash Pad ensures that every step is cushioned. 
  • The guard rails ensure that your moments are comfortable. 
  • The well-cushioned soles keep your feet safe. 
  • Lightweight design that cuts out bulk. 
  • Ideal to use during road running, cross-training, the gym, and many other places. 

Cons

  • Outsole wears out with use. 

5. PUMA AXELION CROSS-TRAINER SHOES

Puma is one of the most well known iconic brands that design and manufacture athletic and casual footwear, apparel, and accessories. They originated in Germany and were founded in 1948 by the Dassler brothers when they decided to split their joint company, the Dassler Brothers Shoe Factory, founded in 1924.

Interestingly the other half of the company evolved into Adidas, which is one of the biggest competitors that Puma has on the global stage.

I have suggested shoes for both men and women here. These shoes come with an advanced lacing structure with straps extending from midsole for extra support which will help protect the lower back from the impact the athletes can have during playing or practicing. 

Features:

  • The upper portion is knitted and combined with a TPU shank.
  • Rubber outsole is designed to have a heel split.
  • The upper extended lacing system provides you a snug fit.
  • It is equipped with an EVA midsole.
  • The lacing system is advanced and features extending straps.
  • They are designed to give the best-run-train performance.

Pros

  • The rubber outsole gives grip and traction.
  • The EVA midsole provides lightweight cushioning.
  • The heel split offers support and control while running.
  • The shoe is designed to provide full heel support.
  • Shock absorption is done well by the rubber heels.

Cons

  • The backheel may cause pain if you have large feet. 

6. ADIDAS LITE RACER ADAPT RUNNING SHOE

Adidas was founded in the year 1948 after a split between the Drussler brothers. The other half of the company is present day Puma. Adidas stands for all day I dream about sports.

They are  a world-class sporting goods brand that is based in Germany and they make some of the best and most iconic shoes that are used by a large number of professional athletes in their respective fields. You can easily find the world's fastest track athletes use Adidas to run in Olympic level races.

Any runner knows the quality of high-performance shoes that are produced by an international brand like Adidas. They are designed in a way to provide snug fit, and the rubber sole adds the extra comfort and prevents the lower back pain problems in athletes. So they are definitely a good buying choice!

Features:

  • The sole is made up of rubber.
  • The brand has expertise in making running shoes.
  • These are used by elite athletes.
  • It was built with decades of accumulating sports science knowledge.
  • Made with relentless innovation

Pros

  • The rubber outsole increases traction 
  • Much comfortable to wear.
  • Ideal for Athletes.

Cons

  • Does not provide stability for hardcore activities. 

7. NIKE RACE RUNNING SHOE

Nike is arguably the most successful brand of all time in the design, development, manufacturing, and worldwide marketing and sales of footwear, apparel, equipment, accessories, and services.

They are an American multinational company founded back in 1946; it was known as blue ribbon back then, it was rebranded as Nike in 1971; named after the Greek goddess of victory.

The race running shoe is not just used by track and marathon runners but also by professional athletes of every sport when it comes to their training. 

Features:

  • The insole is designed to have dual-density. 
  • The underfoot portion is filled with moon foam.
  • The material is stretchy to ensure there is toe room.
  • TPU outlined the Swoosh mark for the iconic Nike look.
  • Breathable mesh increases the airflow.
  • It comes with a cushioned insole that has a soft lining.

Pros

  • The collar and tongue of the shoe are padded for extra comfort. 
  • Durable shoes.
  • Dual-density midsole makes it weightless.

Cons

  • May cause blistering on sensitive feet.

8. FILA EVERGRAND TRAIL SHOE HIKING

Fila is an international sportswear manufacturer that designs shoes and apparel. Fila was founded back in the year 1911 and originated in Italy.

However, it was purchased by the South Korean division that owns it to this day. The Evergrand Trail Shoe Hiking was made specifically to cater to the comfort of the wearer when they run. Check out the features below.

Features:

  • Upper sections are built out of leather and mesh. 
  • The footbed is equipped with an inbuilt EVA.
  • The outsoles have been built out of rubber.
  • The collar of this shoe is padded.
  • The lace-up closure is designed to give a custom fit.

Pros

  • The inbuilt EVA is soft to wear.
  • Comfortable
  • Good quality shoes.

Cons

  • The toe area can be a little tight. 

9. SKECHERS GO PULSE-PERFORMANCE RUNNING AND WALKING SHOE SNEAKER

Skechers describes itself as an American lifestyle and performance footwear company. They are based in California and were founded in the year 1992. They hold a large share of the market and are the third-largest athletic footwear brand in the United States.

The Go Pulse-Performance Running and Walking Shoe Sneaker are built for maintenance of pace and comfort. This is why they have earned a place on the list of the best athletic shoes for lower back pain.

Features:

  • Comes with lightweight responsive cushioning.
  • The mesh is woven in with stabilizing panels on the top. 
  • The collar is equipped with soft pads for comfort. 
  • It gets extra traction and durability from the rubber outsole.
  • The insole is coated by an air-cooled Goga mat system. 

Pros

  • The lightweight nature of these shoes makes them easy to run. 
  • The mesh uppers allow your skin to breathe.
  • The insoles keep your feet comfortable and snug. 

Cons

  • Not ideal for long hours of continuous use.

10. REEBOK ZIG DYNAMIC SNEAKERS

Reebok is an American based brand with an inspired global brand presence with a long history in the fitness industry. Their mission is concise and clear: To be the best fitness brand in the world.

Reebok was founded back in the year 1958 in the United Kingdom. The brand logo is the delta; the three sides of the delta represent the physical, mental and social changes that an individual goes through when they get into fitness.

Features:

  • Comes with a padded inner sole.
  • The upperparts are made of mesh.
  • The outer soles are made of rubber.
  • They are designed to provide comfort and durability.
  • It is made by a team that is constantly bettering itself.

Pros

  • The outer soles provide the best possible grip. 
  • The padded inner sole provides your soles comfort
  • The uppers give your toes the flexibility to move.

Cons

  • Has a hard seam over the big toe.

CAUSE OF THE LOWER BACK PROBLEMS IN ATHLETES

The main cause for lower back pain among athletes is strenuous physical activities during the major growth years. This is most commonly seen in people who play sports that require hyperextension of the lumbar spine. Weight lifters are also at risk because of the strain on their spine.

High heels are also one of the leading causes since they shift the body weight to the balls of the feet and put a strain on the back. However, shoes can also end up being the solution; if you get the best pair of athletic shoes for lower back pain, the padded soles absorb the shock of your movements and protect your feet and back from the impact.

EFFECTS OF THE LOWER BACK PROBLEMS

The effects of lower back problems are as follows

  • Muscle ache
  • Shooting pains
  • Restriction of muscle movement
  • Burning sensations in the lower back
  • Stabbing jolts of pain searing down the back

All of these will drain you of your energy and end up restricting some of your essential abilities of movement. Lower back problems can result in a nearly paralyzed state, which is why people end up using the best athletic shoes for lower back pain; this helps them avoid or at least reduce the effects that could come from lower back problems.

HOW DO THE BEST ATHLETIC SHOES FOR LOWER BACK PAIN HELP SOLVE THE PROBLEM?

The shoes on this list are usually heavily padded and built to ensure the comfort of the wearer when they are being used. Since these shoes have such excellent cushioning properties, they can end up reducing the shock and absorbing the impact on the body and back that comes when the foot hits the ground during walking and running, which is why people end up using them.

So this is why athletes and other people who take care for their health don’t buy any random pair of shoes and stick to professional ones.

faq

1. Can athletic shoes affect lower back pain?

The athletic shoes are designed to be worn for exercising and sporting activities, like - jogging, racquetball, or aerobic dancing. They prevent injuries and improve performance and comfort; when the activities place tremendous pressure on the legs, ankles, and feet. If you wear properly fitted athletic shoes, you’ll never have lower back pain, as it is meant to provide the support your feet need.

2. Can low-arched shoes cause back pain?

The low-arches shoes are specifically designed for people with flat feet or low arches to ease their problems. So, if you have normal arches or high arches, definitely you’ll be having discomfort, foot pain, and even back pain.

3. Do Birkenstocks help back pain?

Birkenstocks shoes have a unique style with a soft food bed; that allows the shoes to mold to the user’s foot shape, making the pair of shoes more comfortable over time and preventing back pain.

4. Are Crocs good for your back?

The Crocs users have claimed that the soft shoes of this brand make their back feel better and reduce their back pain.

CONCLUSION


The back is an essential part of the body when it comes to its movement, and any kind of shortcomings in that region of your body can cause serious dysfunction in your daily life along with a restriction of movements.

One of the main reasons for back pains can be the kind of shoes that people use, the main culprit in this being the high heels and non-padded shoes. However, the solution also lies in the footwear, and the use of the best athletic shoes for lower back pain can really be effective.

This is why if you want to maintain your health and go on runs or jogs, you should use the best pair of athletic shoes for lower back pain.

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