BEST SHOES FOR ACHILLES TENDONITIS

The pain of Tendinitis can hit at any time regardless if you are an athlete or an everyday jogger. Since prevention is better than cure, you need to start using the best shoes for Achilles Tendonitis right now. The shoes are not only good for prevention but also for reducing the pain in the Achilles tendon or associated tissues.

GRAVITY DEFYER G WOMEN - DEFY ORION ATHLETIC SHOES- BEST SHOES FOR PLANTAR FASCIITIS AND ACHILLES TENDONITIS

Amidst the growing range of options, finding the best one is not an easy task. But not anymore. Here, you’ll come to know everything you need to know about Achilles Tendonitis, along with an updated list of the best Tendonitis shoes, their detailed reviews, and a comprehensive buying guide. So, stay tuned till the end.

LIST OF The BEST SHOES FOR ACHILLES TENDONITIS

No.

Product Name

For men

For Women

1

ASICS Gel-Nimbus 21

ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 21 MEN - BEST SHOES FOR ACHILLES TENDONITIS
ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 21 WOMEN - BEST SHOES FOR ACHILLES TENDONITIS

2

Brooks Ghost 13 running shoes

BROOKS GHOST 13 MEN - BEST RUNNING SHOE FOR ACHILLES TENDONITIS
BROOKS GHOST 13 WOMEN - BEST RUNNING SHOE FOR ACHILLES TENDONITIS

3

New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 V11 Running Shoe

NEW BALANCE FRESH FOAM 1080 V11 MEN - BEST SNEAKER FOR ACHILLES TENDONITIS
NEW BALANCE FRESH FOAM 1080 V11 WOMEN - BEST SNEAKER FOR ACHILLES TENDONITIS

4

Gravity Defyer G-Defy Boots

GRAVITY DEFYER G-DEFY BOOTS MEN - BEST SHOE FOR ACHILLES TENDONITIS

5

ASICS Gel Kayano 28 running shoes

ASICS GEL KAYANO 28 SHOES MEN - BEST SHOES FOR EXTENSOR TENDONITIS
ASICS GEL KAYANO 28 SHOES WOMEN - BEST SHOES FOR EXTENSOR TENDONITIS

WHAT IS ACHILLES TENDONITIS?


Achilles tendinitis is an injury of the Achilles tendon, the tissues; that connect calf muscles at the back of the lower leg to the heel bone. The repetitive or intense strain on these areas during walking, running, jumping, or pushing up on your toes develop the symptoms of Achilles tendinitis.

That’s why Achilles tendinitis is most common in middle-aged people who play sports and runners who have suddenly increased the intensity or duration of their runs. At the initial stage, the affected people feel a mild ache in the back of the leg or above the heel after running or practicing other sports activities. Some of them may experience a bit of stiffness in the morning, which usually improves with mild activity.

Causes of Achilles Tendonitis

  • Increased intensity of running or game sport playing season could weaken the Achilles tendon and the tissues of the calf muscles to heel bone with age.
  • Running, jogging, and playing sports in worn-out shoes increase the risk of Achilles tendinitis more than the age factor and could even develop pain at a younger age.
  • Flat arch, overweight and tight calf muscle generally put more strain on the Achilles tendon and develop associated symptoms.
  • People who have high blood pressure or who take certain types of antibiotics are at higher risk of developing Achilles tendinitis.

Achilles Tendonitis Treatment

Most of the cases the pain in Achilles Tendon can be treated at-home care by doing physical activities properly in the right footwear. However, it’s not possible to prevent Achilles tendinitis or cure it completely, but you could reduce the risk or keep the pain under control.

To do so, choose the right footwear, and stretch your calf muscles and Achilles tendon before and after exercise to maintain flexibility and increase your activity level gradually. Hence, cross-training is a useful way to control risk and pain. So, try to do high-impact activities, like - running and jumping, and low-impact activities, like - cycling and swimming alternatively.

However, if you experience persistent pain, you may need medical attention. under your doctor's supervision. Some people experience severe pain due to torn Achilles tendons or associated tissues; they may require surgical repair.

HOW WEARING THE RIGHT FOOTWEAR CAN IMPROVE ACHILLES TENDINITIS?


Maybe tons of medical treatments, pills, therapeutic processes, and massages are there to give you relief from the foot pain, caused by Achilles Tendinitis. Wearing the right footwear is always the first step of treatment that your physiotherapist or orthopedic doctor will suggest.

The dedicated footwear improves posture and prevents further damage or deterioration. Achilles Tendinitis generally damages the tendon and causes severe pain. The dedicated footwear for Achilles tendon problems comes equipped with the proper amount of cushioning and firmness, correct heel height, and arch support. Such construction doesn’t put much stress on the inflamed tissue, which reduces pain and can even cure it.

WHAT ARE THE BEST SHOES FOR ACHILLES TENDONITIS?


Overall Best

First and foremost, find a pair of shoes that fits well on your feet. Make sure the shoe has plenty of room in the toe box so that you can move properly with ease. 

Next, the patient should look for features like – proper cushioning, heel height, arch support, ankle support, and much more that can make the walk easier for them. Hence, you can consider ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 21 and GRAVITY DEFYER G-DEFY boots or any overall best shoes; if you just started experiencing the symptoms. 

Aid in Walking or Running

Suppose you’re facing difficulties while walking; then look for decent running or walking shoes for Achilles Tendonitis. The NEW BALANCE Fresh Foam 1080 V11 sneaker, SKECHERS Max Cushioning Elite walking shoes, or BROOKS GHOST 13 running shoes would be a great option in this regard, as they have more supportive features. 

Get Ready for Sports 

You’ll find some advanced Achilles Tendonitis sandals, shoes, and boots; those allow more support and avoid bad-movements. Their enhanced cushioning and support soften the shock on the foot and relieve body weight pressure from the heel and middle part of the foot. So, not only for walking, but they also enable you to jog or play any sports. 

If you want to join any sport, going with dedicated athlete shoes for insertional Achilles Tendonitis, like - SAUCONY Omni Walker would be wise. Suppose you’re planning to start taking training for tennis; start with the best tennis shoes for Achilles Tendonitis. GRAVITY DEFYER G-DEFY ORION is a dedicated athletic shoe for those persons; who are suffering from Plantar Fasciitis or Achilles Tendonitis. Likewise, you’ll find dedicated shoe options for the respective sports fields; you want to step in. 

Start Treatment at Home

Here, I’ll have ASICS GEL Kayano 28 to recommend you for aiding the overpronation issues of plantar fasciitis, bunions, and heel spurs. Similarly, I would recommend choosing decent shoes for ankle tendonitis to treat and cure tendonitis pain in the ankle or look for any dedicated shoes to reduce pain from particular areas.

However, it was a quick overview of what I have on the recommendation list; keep scrolling to explore them in detail. I’ll suggest going through the buying guide section first to compare the enlisted shoes properly. 

A Little Reminder: Don't go with any overall best shoes after Achilles tendon surgery; wearing doctor-recommended shoes is the only solution here. 

8 BEST SHOES FOR ACHILLES TENDONITIS REVIEW

1. ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 21 - BEST SHOES FOR ACHILLES TENDONITIS

The snug fittings, contoured comfort, excellent support, and balance have made these shoes one of the best running shoes for Achilles tendonitis.

The models for women of these ASICS shoes come with a 3 mm additional height to reduce Achilles tension. The Vertical flex grooves in these models decouple the tooling along the line of progression and boost gait efficiency.

On the other hand, the uniqueness of the models for men is their reflectivity. These shoes have enhanced visibility due to their reflective materials.

The high-abrasion rubber materials are exceptionally durable and have excellent grips and cushioning on a wide range of surfaces, dry or wet. The mesh uppers are supportive. They render breathability to keep feet healthy. In addition to that, the molded EVA sock liners of the shoes keep feet dry and cozy.

The GEL technology in the forefoot enhances comfort by increasing shock absorption and reducing impacts. They secure the balance and incorporate a roomy toe box to offer your feet more space to move.

Moreover, the SpEVA 45-lasting foam in these shoes doesn’t just absorb shock but also improves durability and rebound. The exoskeletal heel counters improve the degree of support. They upgrade the heel fittings.

The FLYTEFOAM Propel technology renders responsive yet lightweight rides with unparalleled weight reduction performance. The continuous cushioning and the integrated nanofiber architecture helps the shoes to regain their original shape after each stride. Thus, ASICS Gel-Nimbus 21 makes things easier for people with Achilles tendonitis.

Features:

  • Come With ASICS High Abrasion Rubber Outsoles
  • Synthetic And Mesh Material
  • Come With Flytefoam Propel Technology
  • Flytefoam Lyte Technology
  • Come With The Speva 45 Lasting Foams

Pros

  • Neither too loose nor too tight fittings
  • Comfortable and lightweight
  • Breathable
  • Exceptionally durable

Cons

  • One may feel uncomfortable in the toe area

2. BROOKS GHOST 13 - BEST RUNNING SHOE FOR ACHILLES TENDONITIS

Soft cushioning and secure fit are the most desirable features when opting for the best shoes for tendonitis. These Brooks shoes have qualified for this condition with efficiency.

The perfect combination of BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT cushioning layers diminishes impacts at every stride without affecting durability and responsiveness. They provide just the proper amount of underfoot support.

Moreover, DNA LOFT extends from the forefoot to the heel and ensures an easy transition during each toe-off and landing.

The segmented crash pads of these running shoes absorb shock efficiently. They cushion each step irrespective of the nature of foot landings.

Additionally, the air mesh and 3D Fit Print uppers of these Achilles shoes cuddle the feet with breathable yet secure fittings. They stretch and structure according to users’ feet to render the aimed support.

These Ghost 13 shoes have acquired the APMA Seal of Acceptance. They provide a smooth and soft transition of the feet with Achilles tendonitis.

The rubber soles provide impressive traction on various terrain to ensure slip-less movements.

With their balanced and cushioned performance, these shoes have secured their name in the recommendation of the best Achilles tendon pain shoes.

Features:

  • Come With The BioMoGo DNA And DNA LOFT Cushioning
  • Rubber Soles
  • Come With Segmented Crash Pads
  • Mesh And 3D Fit Print
  • PDAC A5500 Certified Diabetic Shoes

Pros

  • Render soft and comfortable rides
  • Allows feet to breathe
  • Well supportive
  • Reduce impacts on feet during running and walking

Cons

  • The shoes may break down quickly

3. NEW BALANCE 1080 V11 - BEST SNEAKER FOR ACHILLES TENDONITIS

New Balance has focused its research to content its customers with the best shoes possible. These 1080 V11 shoes are one of their best inventions for people suffering from Achilles tendonitis.

These tendonitis shoes come with synthetic soles that are flexible and lightweight. They have high elasticity and superior shock-absorbing properties and provide a soft feel. Moreover, due to the water-resistant feature of these soles, they remain unaffected by water and prevent any infections caused due to bacterial growth in the feet in wet weather.

The stretchy knit uppers render comfort in the long run. These mesh and synthetic materials are resistant to water and scratches. They move the moisture away to sit on the fabric rather than the feet and offer maximum ventilation within the shoes. Hence the feet remain dry and cozy.

The Bootie upper construction embraces the feet with a snug fitting. It accompanies the Ultra Heel design to render support to the users.

The Fresh Foam midsoles are neither too bouncy nor too mushy. They provide reliable support and perfect cushioning. Furthermore, the ortholite sock liners can manage moisture efficiently. They confirm the comfortable and lightweight transition of the consumers.

The supportive fit and comfortable feel of these shoes for Achilles have made them the must-have for each person suffering from foot problems like tendonitis.

Features:

  • Synthetic And Mesh Uppers
  • The Bootie Upper Construction
  • The Ultra Heel Designs
  • Come With Fresh Foam Midsoles
  • The Ortho-Lite Sockliners

Pros

  • Manage moisture and render a breathable environment
  • Optimum cushioning
  • Supportive to the feet
  • Light on feet

Cons

  • The heel construction is poor

4. GRAVITY DEFYER  - BEST boots FOR ACHILLES TENDONITIS

There are many shoes for Achilles tendonitis pain recommended by podiatrists. You may get lost in the crowd and become confused about choosing the proper shoes. The Gravity Defyer shoes can save you from the situation with their attention-grabbing performance.

These shoes come with the VersoShock Patented Technology that includes the stabilizing midfoot, rolling forefoot design, and reverse trampoline heel. The lateral stabilization and supportive liners of the midfoot re-establish the foot alignments with 3D motion control and protect arches from unwanted injuries.

The rolling forefoot designs help feet during forwarding propulsion by relieving pressure on joints and toes. Furthermore, the trampoline heel converts shock into renewed positive energy and secures feet from impacts at every movement. Hence, these shoes mitigate back, knee, and foot pains.

The waterproof membrane walls and mesh linings allow the air to circulate within the shoes and render fresh surroundings to the feet by restricting water. They cooperate with the leather and microfiber uppers to provide a breathable yet durable fitting.

The lace-up closures and pull tabs allow the wearers to wear and remove these snug fittings shoes without inconvenience. The insoles adapt to the shape and movement of the individual users instantly and relieve their foot pains. These insoles can be replaced with personalized orthotic support for upgraded performance.

These mid-cut shoes come with a high top. They provide exceptional support to the feet to confirm their position as the best shoes for tendonitis on top of the foot.

Features:

  • Come With Waterproof Uppers And Waterproof Membrane Linings
  • Mid-Cut Shoes
  • Detachable Insoles
  • VersoShock Patented Technology
  • Come With A Durable Toe Guard And Synthetic Soles

Pros

  • Render impressive support to the feet
  • Breathable uppers keep feet healthy
  • Waterproof membranes keep feet dry
  • Comfy to wear

Cons

  • Quality is not up to the mark

5. ASICS GEL KAYANO 28 - BEST SHOES FOR EXTENSOR TENDONITIS

I often suffered from foot pain and stiffness due to Achilles tendonitis. I tried different shoes but none worked properly to relieve my daily concerns. After that, I explored these Asics shoes and was astonished at how effective a shoe is in mitigating foot problems.

Usually, the shoes twist inward and outward during landing and before the toe off simultaneously. Excessive twisting of the shoes hampers stable movements. These Gel Kayano 28 shoes come with the Trusstic System technology that prevents undesirable shoe twisting during motion and ensures the stability of the feet.

The mesh material is lightweight, durable, and breathable. It renders support and regulates the temperature of the feet well. Thus, these uppers provide comfort to the feet by keeping them cool.

The rearfoot gel technology of these Achilles tendon running shoes allows for a smooth transition by reducing the impacts during heel strikes. The dynamic Duomax support system reduces the stress on the feet due to overpronation and ensures a comfortable run.

The OrthoLite X-55 sock liners are lightweight and 95% to 100% breathable. They wick the moisture away from the feet and provide long-term cushioned comfort. The external heel counters reinforce the rearfoot stability. Hence, these imported boots are one of the best shoes for plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis.

Features:

  • Come with AHAR Plus Outsoles
  • Trusstic System technology
  • Come with an external heel counter for improved stability
  • OrthoLite X-55 sock liner
  • Breathable mesh uppers

Pros

  • Effective for pronation and Achilles tendonitis
  • Provide unparalleled support
  • Extremely comfortable
  • Allows ventilation to keep feet cool

Cons

  • It may seem to be tight in the toe box

6. SAUCONY OMNI WALKER - BEST SHOES FOR INSERTIONAL ACHILLES TENDONITIS

When comfortability meets durability, these Saucony shoes come in this recommendation for the best shoes for Achilles tendonitis 2022. Though these shoes arrived on the market in 2019, they are still on the list even today with their impressive performance.

These Omni walker shoes come for men and women. While the weight for the models for men is 366 g, the same for women’s models is 329 g. Hence, they are light and comfortable on the feet.

The rubber outsoles are slip-resistant. They provide unbeatable grips on treacherous surfaces and resist any accidental falls.

Furthermore, these boots come with the PWRRUN cushioning technology. These award-winning technologies of the midsoles return energy quicker and absorb 5% more impact than the previous models.

Additionally, they are twice as flexible as Saucony’s previous models and ensure powerful take-offs and soft landings. They render excellent support and cushioning to the feet to keep them away from Achilles tendonitis. Besides, the leather upper of the shoes enhances the degree of softness. These water-resistant uppers mold to the feet to offer the users proper fittings.

Light and soft feeling with top-notch support describe these tendonitis shoes perfectly.

Features:

  • Non-slip, rubber outsoles
  • PWRRUN midsoles
  • Full-grain leather uppers
  • Synthetic-and-mesh material
  • APMA Certified

Pros

  • Durable
  • Superior traction
  • Slip-resistant
  • Provide luxurious underfoot feel for its cushioning

Cons

  • Narrow for wide feet

7. SKECHERS ELITE - BEST WALKING BOOT FOR ACHILLES TENDONITIS

A low price does not always mean poor quality and performance. These Skechers shoes are a shining example of that. Although these shoes come in the market at an affordable price, they have won the hearts of buyers with their impactful performance.

The Achilles tendonitis running shoes come with the Goga Mat insoles that provide top-class support and comfort to the feet during high-intensity activities. Additionally, the ULTRA GO midsoles are lightweight and render responsive cushioning.

The lace-up closures with rounded toes provide a secure yet comfortable fitting. The rear pull tab ensures an easy-wearing process.

The mesh upper and breathable fabric linings of the shoes guarantee air circulation within the shoes and keep the feet sweatless.

The parametric web outsoles are flexible and render the required traction on different surfaces.

Furthermore, the forefoot flex grooves secure the smooth transition by promoting forefoot flexion across the metatarsophalangeal joints. Thus, they lessen the foot pain caused by Achilles tendonitis.

The midfoot strike zones distribute the pressure on feet evenly and increase the efficiency at each strike. The supportive and cushioning features have made these Achilles shoes an integral part of this recommendation list.

Features:

  • Parametric Web Outsoles
  • Forefoot Flex Grooves And Mid-Foot Strike Zone
  • Come With The Goga Mat Insoles
  • Seamless And Mesh Uppers With Synthetic Grids
  • ULTRA GO Midsoles
  • Lace-Up Closure With 6mm Heel Drop

Pros

  • Provide maximum comfort
  • Light on feet
  • Pocket-friendly budget
  • Perfect fittings

Cons

  • Poor durability

8. GRAVITY DEFYER ORION ATHLETIC SHOES

The recommendation for the best boots for Achilles tendonitis remains incomplete without these Athletic shoes.

The VersoShock Technology absorbs the impacts and erases foot pains. The STROBEL construction of these shoes renders energy return, dream-like comfort, and desired flexibility. Unlike board-lasted shoes, these boots are free from boards, so the outsoles deliver top-level bounce.

The PU insoles are removable and breathable. They have high elasticity, low density, superior impact resistance, and absorbability.

Furthermore, they are exchangeable with orthotic soles that let you add relatively more comfort and required support. The EVA soles render a bit more traction and flexibility when compared to the rubber soles. They also absorb shock more efficiently than rubber soles.

While the natural-contour heel cups keep the feet in the proper place to prevent heel spurs, the broad forefoot design renders balance.

The perforated finishing and rolling forefoot designs with all the previous features have made these Gravity Defyer boots one of the best shoes for tendonitis in the foot.

Features:

  • VersoShock Technology
  • The STROBEL Construction
  • Come With The Eva Soles
  • Removable Pu Insoles
  • Rolling Forefoot Designs With Natural-Contour Heel Cups

Pros

  • Satisfactory underfoot cushioning
  • Render outstanding arch support
  • Good for pronated, wide, and flat feet

Cons

  • It needs some time to break in

BUYER’S GUIDE - SHOES FOR ACHILLES TENDONITIS

You may be confused about whether walking is good for the feet with Achilles tendonitis. The answer is assertive only when proper shoes accompany your walk. The above-mentioned shoes are ideal in this regard. Still, it would be best; if you choose an activity and feature-specific shoes, and the desirable features are -

Proper Arch Support


People with an abnormally high arch or low arch generally suffer from Achilles tendinitis. If the arch area of the chosen shoe can’t support their feet properly, it could increase pain and even could develop other injuries. So, choose any decent men’s or women's shoes for Achilles Tendonitis according to your arch type to add more support and reduce the pain.

Ball Of Foot Bending


If the chosen shoes don’t have sufficient firmness, it could lead you to walk with bad movements, which will deteriorate your condition. So, you should choose a pair of shoes; that offers the right bending from exactly beneath the ball of the foot and nowhere else.

Heel Cushioning


It is always recommended to look for those which has proper heel height and cushioning. When looking for insertional Achilles Tendonitis shoes, the heel should be slightly high to add relatively more support and comfort, make the feet easy to move, and eliminate the chances of bad movements.

However, if you will run or practice any sports in the chosen shoes, make sure the heel area has enough cushioning to reduce pressure from brusque movements.

Ankle Collar


High-pressure movements or incorrect stepping could include a fracture in the ankle. So, to prevent this, make sure the chosen shoes have an ankle collar. The shoes with ankle collar support are the best shoes for tendonitis in the ankle; they help the feet move better without feeling the pain.

Insoles


It is recommended for Achilles tendinitis patients to have a medical-grade insole in their shoes. The insoles need to have the right amount of cushioning to support the heel and arch. But the amount of cushioning for the insole depends on the person who’ll wear the shoes. So, I always prefer and recommend you choose shoes with a removable insole so that you can insert the best orthotic insole for you.

FAQ

1. Do running shoes help with Achilles Tendonitis?

With cushioned walking shoes, people generally take longer strides, so have more impact in the heel area. When their feet move through contact with the ground, their ankles bend before lifting the heel and causing higher strain on the Achilles tendon.

2. Can heel lifts help reduce Achilles strain?

The heel lift relieves some of the pressure. Hence, most research has suggested having a 1cm high or even higher heel counterpart in the shoe to reduce the strain on the Achilles tendon. The heel shouldn’t be impractically high; if so, the heel could slide out of the shoe and include serious injuries or ankle sprain.

3. Do all shoes increase the load on Achilles Tendon?

Not all shoes are made with the same design and features. Some shoes are designed to gait with a curve built into the sole, which reduces some of the load on the Achilles tendon to help propel the foot forward. However, such shoes are recommended only for severe Achilles Tendonitis, not suitable for everyone.

CONCLUSION


As I mentioned above, there are no particular best shoes for foot tendonitis. You’ll get dedicated shoe options for practicing sports or activities, treating Achilles injuries and pain in particular areas of your feet, healing the wound after surgery, and back to a normal routine.

I hope you’ve liked the recommendations and found the buying guide useful for your next purchase. If so, please share this article with your friends, relatives, and the ones you know; who are suffering from Achilles Tendonitis pain. With that said, I would like to remind you of one thing again.

If your condition is as serious as you need to go through surgery or you’re under any particular treatment, it’s highly advisable not to overlook our doctor's recommendation. Not even if you’re not comfortable in the podiatrist-recommended shoes for Achilles Tendonitis.

Stay tuned with shoegrow.com to explore more about footwear and shoe care. If you have any queries, feel free to ask below in the comment section.

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