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A common issue for runners is that shin splints are often caused by repetitive stress on the shin, leading to swelling, inflammation, and pain along the shin. Lousy running form, muscle weakness or imbalance, and running too much or on hard surfaces may cause shin splints, but one of the biggest culprits is running in improper or worn-out running shoes. The best shoes for shin splints provide plenty of cushioning with flexible soles and relatively low heels.
Here, the best running shoes for shin splints for every type of runner.
Brooks is known for its high-quality, well-made running shoes, and they certainly don’t disappoint with the Adrenaline. With its excellent shock absorption and cushioning, it’s a solid choice for those who are prone to shin splints. Known for exceptional motion control, the Adrenaline has a diagonal roll bar that keeps feet stable with each stride. Additionally, Brooks’ BioMoGo DNA cushioning throughout provides comfort and softness without being too cushy to feel unsupportive.
These shoes are surprisingly lightweight, given their stability and supportiveness. They’re also very breathable, so they’re a good option for those who keep running shoes on for many hours at a time, whether they’re exercising or at work. The regular width model does have a narrow toebox, so be sure to choose the wider version if you have a wide foot.
If you want a running shoe with maximum cushioning, you can’t go wrong with the Hoka One One Clifton running shoe. The shoe’s superior plush EVA material cushioning provides excellent shock absorption and helps decrease the pressure under the heel and ball of the foot, making them a great running shoe for shin splints. They’re also surprisingly lightweight and comfortable right out of the box.
With their thick and wide soles, Hoka’s super-cushioned shoes may not be the most fashionable running shoes, but they provide a comfy, smooth ride. The Clifton’s re-engineered mesh upper balances the cushioning with a supportive and breathable fit. Devoted fans love them for running, but say the “cloud-like feel” will make you want to wear them when you’re walking, doing errands around town, or just hanging at home.
Runners who put in a lot of miles on pavement need a running shoe with excellent cushioning and shock absorption that can handle all that pounding. Saucony Triumph running shoes check those boxes and more, making it an ideal shoe for protection from shin splints.
They feature Saucony’s PWRRUN+ cushioning, which delivers a springy and responsive underfoot feel. The cushioning is spread evenly throughout the shoe, which helps promote proper running technique. Additionally, the Formfit design molds to the shape of your foot, making for a perfect fit and comfort from every angle. The Triumph is an excellent all-around shoe, especially for those who need extra cushioning for road running or walking.
Adidas’ Adizero Boost is proof that a running shoe can be lightweight and still provide exceptional stability and comfort. Designed to be a long-distance shoe, it’s made with superior midsole cushioning that keeps you comfortable no matter how far you’re running.
The wide toe box lets your toes spread out and create a more stable, natural running form, which can also help with shin splints prevention. The ultra-lightweight, breathable mesh has a barely-there feel, while still providing a snug, supportive fit. With Adidas’ iconic three-stripe design, the Adizero also gets high marks for style.
Hoka’s signature cushioning is ideal for shin splints, so it makes sense that the brand has earned more than one spot on our list. The Arahi features EVA cushioning throughout the entire shoe, which allows for balanced landings, excellent responsiveness, and good stability. Yet the foam is lightweight and flexible, so the shoe doesn’t feel too rigid or constricting.
The breathable mesh upper adds to the overall comfort. While it has the right amount of cushioning and stability to reduce the risk of shin splints, the Arahi also works well for those with a history of plantar fasciitis.
If you’re looking for a high-quality, well-cushioned, and durable shoe that’s well-suited for wide feet, look no further than the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 running shoe. The shoe’s innovative one-piece Fresh Foam midsole delivers outstanding support and cushioning, while the dual-density rubber outsole provides additional stability. A soft, flexible upper and wide toe box provides plenty of room and comfort for your forefoot, which is crucial for those who have experienced shin splints.
The running shoe comes in four widths—narrow, standard, wide, and extra-wide. It also comes in a range of sizes and various colors.
Highly flexible, supportive, and comfortable, the popular Asics GEL Nimbus running shoes are a good option for distance runners or anyone who spends a lot of time on their feet and has experienced shin pain. Their trademark GEL cushioning system in the rearfoot and forefoot helps with shock absorption, making for more comfortable miles. The shoe also utilizes FlyteFoam Midsole Technology to enhance comfort, while the heel counter offers additional heel support.
What sets the Nimbus apart is its Impact Guidance System (IGS) Technology, which is designed to improve a runner’s natural gait. This can make a tremendous difference for those dealing with shin splints, as bad running technique can often be a cause of it. Whether you’re a marathoner or a casual jogger, they’re a well-rounded shoe that will feel great right out of the box.
Another popular running shoe from Brooks, the Addiction is perfect for runners who need some help with controlling pronation, or their feet rolling while they’re running. The diagonal rollbar helps limit pronation and promotes smooth transitions, while the cushioned midsole provides for a comfy ride.
These shoes are lightweight, comfortable, and stable, so they’ll help you maintain proper form and avoid shin splints. The Addiction comes in regular and wide widths (including extra wide), so it’s a good option for those who need extra space for wide feet or orthotics. It also comes in narrow for those who need a snugger fit.
The Stinson isn’t as cushy as some other Hoka shoes, but it has the supportive fit and stability you need for trail running. Meanwhile, the EVA midsole cushioning still provides exceptional comfort and shock absorption for shin splints protection. The wide sole and deep lugs allow for excellent grip and stability on all surfaces and weather conditions. And if you like to do a combination of trail and pavement running, the Stinson is suitable to cross over into road running.
With the perfect combination of cushioning and stability, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS and the Hoka One One Clifton Running Shoes are our top pick running shoes for anyone prone to shin splints. Both are durable, reliable shoes from quality brands.
Cushioning
One way to combat shin splints is to wear running shoes that are comfortable and provide plenty of cushioning to help absorb most of the shock from your feet hitting the ground.
Durability
Quality and durability are also huge factors to consider because you want to be sure that the shoe’s support and cushioning won’t wear out quickly. Look for shoes with sturdy rubber outsoles that can withstand lots of pounding.
Fit
Your running shoes should fit comfortably right out of the box and shouldn’t require a break-in period. Make sure there’s plenty of room in the toe box to wiggle your toes. If you need to accommodate custom orthotics or inserts, look for shoes with removable insoles so you’ll have enough room for them.
Through many years as a running coach and marathon runner, Christine Luff has dealt with bouts of shin splints and advises trainees on how to prevent and rehab from them. For shin splint protection, she recommends regularly replacing running shoes and sticking to reputable brands such as Asics, Brooks, New Balance, Adidas, Hoka, and Saucony.
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