The 15 Best Shock-Absorbing Shoes in 2022

It is best to choose shoes with shock-absorbing properties no matter what you do because they can make the difference between safety and injury. Let’s have a look at these best 15 shock-absorbing shoes of 2021.

Everyone would agree that even if you are completely healthy, long-term impact on hard surfaces can damage your feet, ankles, and knees. Therefore, you need a pair of shock-absorbing shoes that can reduce the strain on your body. These shoes displace the kinetic energy using materials such as EVA, rubber, or silicone to keep your feet and lower body protected.

To learn more about these wonderful shock-dispersing technologies, why not jump right in?

What are The Best Shock-Absorbing Shoes?

On this list, we have some picks of well-rounded and high-quality shoes with some of the most prominent shock-absorbing techs on the market.

ASICS has developed the signature GEL Cushioning material for all of its sports shoes, while Ryka has its Rezorb Lite midsole, and Skechers introduces a new and improved cushioning midsole with every release.

Here is the lineup of the best 15 shock-absorbing shoes that suit a variety of occasions:

Best Overall: New Balance M680LN6 Men’s 680 V6 Running Shoes

‘Secure fit and comfy cushioning, soft inner side, good for underpronators.’

Good for Cushioning: Butterfly 8089G045 Lezoline Rifones Shoes

‘Extra forefoot cover, plush tongue, unisex design for both genders.’

Good for Plantar Fasciitis: Ryka E1360M9 Women’s Devotion Plus 2 Walking Shoes

‘Synthetic top overlays, Rezorb active foam, 100% eco-friendly’.

Good for Arch Support: ASICS 1072A034.001 Women’s Gel-Rocket 9 Volleyball Shoes

‘Signature decorative lines, lightweight Trusstic System, can be used for any indoor sports.’

Good for Cross-Training: Skechers 12101 Women’s Skech-Air 2.0 Cyclones

‘Full-length memory foam insole, lace-up design, sleek and feminine design.’

Good for Work: Skechers 76551-BLK Work Eldred – Relaxed Fit

‘Slip-resistant rubber outsole, enables flexible movement, carries XX sizes.’

Good for Knees: ASICS 1012A476 Women’s Gel-Venture 7 Running Shoes

‘Ortholite sock liner, high-abrasion rubber outsole, completely moisture and odor-free.’

Best for Women: Ryka F0180MB Women’s Devotion XT Sneakers

‘Bottom pivot point & flex grooves, Rezorb Lite pods, good grip on studio surface.’

Good for Summer: Skechers 51509 Equalizer Double Play

‘Memory foam insole, breathable and lightweight, varying sizes for both male and female.’

Good for Running: ASICS 1012A234/231.020 Women’s Gel-Contend 5 Running Shoes

‘Fixed gel footbed, AmpliFoam midsole, excellent for short-distance running.’

Good for Wide Feet: WHITIN Men’s Oversized Midsole Runners

‘Full-length EVA midsole, extra lacing hole, great selection of designs.’

Good for Walking All Day: Skechers 15433 Performance GOwalk Lite Isla

‘Highly attractive boat shoe, Goga Max insole, made with premium materials.’

Good for Men: Skechers 54600-BBK Men’s GOwalk Max Slip-on

‘5Gen midsole cushioning, slip-on design, can be machine-washed.’

Good for Tennis: Crocs 205234 Women’s LiteRide Pacer Sneakers

‘Hybrid-style sneakers, Croslite foam outsole, super soft, and light for female wearers.’

Best for Budget: BRONAX Graffiti Personality Sneakers

‘Extremely cool and lively design, non-marking rubber sole, high top design.’

All Shock-Absorbing Shoe – Comparison Chart

Below are some relevant factors that I considered while compiling this list; have a look first, so you know what you are in for:

Top 15 Best Shock-Absorbing Shoes Reviews in 2022

Without further ado, let us take an up-close and personal look at the best shock-absorbing shoes on the market:

Best Overall: New Balance Men’s 680 V6 Running Shoes

Key features

• Imported materials
• ABZORB midsole
• Seamless lining
• Response 2.0 Performance Insert
• 10mm heel-to-toe drop

Product specs

With a clean, lightweight, and stylish design, New Balance 680 V6 runners are the very definition of overall excellent shock-absorbing running shoes. The brand has long been well-known for its high-quality products, and these shoes are no exception.

First of all, synthetic overlays are built in key areas of the upper to provide durability, structural support, and protection. The seamless design featured on the entire shoe will help reduce irritation against the skin.

Additionally, the traditional lace-up scheme provides a secure fit around your foot. There are paddings on the tongue and collar for even more comfort, and the removable NB Response 2.0 footbed comes with extra arch support.

In terms of shock-absorbing properties, the midsole includes the hi-tech ABZORB cushioning to disperse all impacts while remaining lightweight thanks to the special ACTEVA material. The New Balance logo is made with reflective material to be seen in low-light situations easily. Make sure to grab a pair for your next late-night jogging session!

Best for Cushioning: Butterfly Lezoline Rifones Shoes

Key features

• Adjustable lace-up design
• Extra forefoot cover
• Plush tongue
• Bridge-shaped B-Absorber sponge in the midsole
• Carries kids size

Product specs

With materials made with incredible cushioning for elite sports, Lezoline Rifones is the all-new leading model representing what the Butterfly brand stands for, and you can definitely see why.

With B-Armor technology embedded in the front upper part, your forefoot will be under extreme protection of its KPU material while remaining flexible for swift action. The middle sole is formed in a special bridge-like shape to help you drift more smoothly.

Besides flexibility, the shoe also provides strong support in the outer sole with wingtip design that enables sublime footwork and efficient traction. Butterfly makes sure all of their products have a built-in shock-absorbing sponge to cushion your bottom foot all the way.

On top of that, the fixed tongue design proves extremely convenient since you won’t have to adjust it after long sports sessions. It is the perfect choice for those looking for a high-performance but also comfortable sportswear.

Best for Plantar Fasciitis: Ryka Women’s Devotion Plus 2 Walking Shoes

Key features

• Synthetic top overlays
• Lightweight EVA midsole
• Stitchless fabric lining
• Rezorb active foam
• Insole with deep heel cup

Product specs

If you’re in search of a simple solution to your plantar fasciitis, look no further than the next Devotion Plus model for women from Ryka – a shock-absorbing shoe with both style and substance.

The sneaker features a breathable mesh and synthetic upper materials that come in many fabulous shades. The overlays on top are built to secure your foot while being extremely lightweight compared to other bulky designs.

In terms of cushioning, it has a durable rubber outsole with Rezorb active foam that hugs around your heel nicely. An extra layer of support comes from the midsole, which is made of durable, lightweight EVA material to give you great rebound from heel to toe.

Inside, we have a super smooth fabric lining that feels wonderful to the touch. The footbed is thin and flexible but still gives the right amount of cushioning, and it doesn’t slide while running despite being completely removable.

Finally, the arch support is rated moderate to high, so it is a great fit for those with flat feet and overpronation problems. Whether you are hiking, jogging, or just going about your day, Devotion Plus 2 would always be an excellent companion!

Best for Arch Support: ASICS Women’s Gel-Rocket 9 Volleyball Shoes

Key features

• Synthetic leather overlays
• ASICS GEL cushioning
• Lightweight Trusstic System
• 10mm differential

Product specs:

With a traditional silhouette and sporty aesthetic, ASICS Women’s Gel-Rocket 9 is your safest bet for a pair of sneakers with great arch support.

To start off, the flexible but durable design is made to keep you steady and balanced throughout any game. Plus, the shoe’s slender construction features eye-catching decorative lines on top of a highly breathable upper, with great color choices that will make you look absolutely dashing.

Furthermore, the shoe’s upper mesh is covered in synthetic leather overlays to help with structural support, and there is reinforced stitching in high wear areas for added durability. The midsole is made with molded EVA foam and has GEL cushioning at the forefoot and heel to enhance the shock absorption properties.

ASICS’s specially developed Trusstic system in the midfoot can boost the forward momentum while you play. The outsole rubber extends past the bottom for lateral support, and the non-marking material makes sure there is enough traction for enhanced movement on the court.

Best for Cross-Training: Skechers Women’s Skech-Air 2.0 Cyclones

Key features

• Full-length memory foam insole
• Non-marking, translucent outsole
• Skech-Air outsole
• Built-in padded heel

Product specs

Tired of shock-absorbing shoes that are bulky and thick-bottomed? Check out these amazing Skech-Air 2.0 Cyclones made not only for intense crossfit training but also for looking cute and feel comfy.

The shoe features an athletic lace-up design with the dainty decorative Skechers logo on the side. It has a mesh fabric upper with plenty of room for your foot to breathe, and the smooth fabric lining feels great next to the skin.

Skechers Cyclone lineup also includes a special gel-infused memory foam footbed for all-day support that cannot be found in a typical fashion sneaker. Down at the bottom are a translucent Skech-Air outsole that is perfect for running and high-impact fitness.

Besides the unique glassy aesthetic, the bottom sole also has rubber traction bumps for a reliable grip, providing a stimulating sensation while you walk. Get a pair for yourself to experience an on-the-go foot massage today!

Best for Work: Skechers Work Eldred – Relaxed Fit

Key features

• EH Safe design
• Removable insole
• Reflective side stripes
• Slip-resistant rubber outsole
• Carries XX sizes

Product specs

Our next entry is from the Skechers Work lineup: The Eldred Work Shoe with a relaxed fit design for a comfier feeling during your hectic shifts. It is most suitable for those that work in health care or food service thanks to its impeccable design choices.

First off, it has a smooth leather upper that prevents any food stain or droplets from sticking to the surface. The nitrile rubber outsole gives excellent traction on slippery surfaces, not to mention it is completely insulated against electricity.

With a classy lace-up closure, you can easily go for a more secure and adjustable fit around a soft fabric shoe lining. The padded collar and tongue give a little bit of extra support around the heel and ankle but do not stand in the way of the heel panel’s cooling property.

Its support against impact is also top-notch, with a memory-foam cushioned footbed that really holds up, and a shock-absorbing midsole underneath that is both lightweight and flexible. You don’t have to dread going to work for fear of your feet hurting anymore!

Best for Knees: ASICS Women’s Gel-Venture 7 Running Shoes

Key features

• EVA midsole
• Ortholite sock liner
• GEL rearfoot cushioning
• High-abrasion rubber outsole

Product specs

ASICS are best known for their supportive sports shoes, and the 7th iteration of the women’s Gel-Venture collection is no exception. These running shoes provide excellent support for the knee and are great for outdoor runners.

The shoe’s reliable construction comes in a wide array of color combinations for all your fashion choices. The durable mesh and textile upper are going to keep your foot breathable even on long runs, and the plush tongue and collar will keep every step springy.

Next up, we have the Rearfoot GEL cushioning to absorb impact on the heel, helping relieve pain for those with shin splint or back and knee problems. The insole is made by the trusted Ortholite brand that offers great comfort with every stride.

Underneath everything is ASICS High-Abrasion rubber outsole that provides traction and stability, whether you are going uphill or downhill. There is also horizontal reinforcement in critical areas on the bottom to help with durability and support. All in all, a great choice for runners that you do not want to miss out on!

Best for Women: Ryka Women’s Devotion XT Sneaker

Key features

• Reinforced synthetic overlays
• Exposed midsole
• RE-ZORB LITE pods
• Bottom pivot point & flex grooves

Product specs

With woman-centric design and technology, the Devotion XT collection is easily one of Ryka’s all-time popular models. Its construct is tailored to the female unique foot shape with a wide midfoot and a slender heel.

In terms of cushioning and comfort, it offers a padded tongue and a plush collar for additional comfort, and there is soft fabric lining for a great inner-shoe feeling.

Like any great shock-absorbing shoe, the Devotion lineup features Ryka’s trademark Rezorb cushioning to protect against any impact during the workout. It also includes a lightweight molded EVA midsole that will leave your foot feel like walking on feathers.

There’s an eight-piece skeletal outsole with rubber for the much-needed traction in key areas down at the bottom. It works together with the Rezorb Lite midsole and bottom Pivot Point for easy twists and turns. With extra room for custom orthotics, Devotion XT will definitely be an indispensable part of your cross-training routine.

Best for Summer: Skechers Equalizer Double Play

Key features

• Convenient slip-on design
• Imported materials
• FlexSole midsole
• Memory foam insole

Product specs

With materials selected for summer heat and moisture while still guarding against impacts, these Skechers Equalizer Double Play are some of the comfiest slip-on sporty shoes on the market.

We have an incredibly lightweight and breathable mesh throughout the upper, stitched together by delicate trims around the collar for starter. The synthetic outsole is designed with flex grooves to help the feet bend comfortably and provide traction down on the bottom.

The shoe’s shock-absorption is truly enhanced by a thick but lightweight FlexSole midsole. The footbed is made of memory foam to cover the whole bottom of your feet for long-lasting cushioning and support. Landing in Amazon’s top 5 best loafers for men, these bad boys will play a big part in creating your best summer memory!

Best for Running: ASICS Women’s Gel-Contend 5 Running Shoes

Key features

• Neutral and underpronation support
• AmpliFoam midsole
• Ortholite sock liner
• Fixed GEL footbed
• 10mm differential

Product specs

When compiling a list of best shock-absorbing shoes, we certainly cannot leave out the amazing Gel-Contend 5 from ASICS – a woman’s trusty sidekick for daily jogging and running.

The sneaker has a breathable mesh and synthetic upper material with many eye-catching shades. The durable rubber outsole provides durability and a reliable grip, while the laminate midfoot cage gives you additional structural support.

ASICS makes sure their technologies are integrated most harmoniously. The AmpliFoam midsole is designed to offer great cushioning and response, and an Ortholite sock liner is in place to deal with moisture and provide underfoot comfort and support.

What’s more, the shoe has a Rearfoot GEL cushioning system to disperse shock and a breathable fabric lining inside. The heel is slightly boosted to help shift your body mass and reduces the strain on lower limbs. These shoes are great for the low mileage runner, but you can also wear them casually.

Best for Wide Feet: WHITIN Men’s Oversized Midsole Runners

Key features

• Extra lacing hole in the collar
• Full-length EVA midsole
• Rubberized foam outsole
• Lace-up front

Product specs

With extra cushioning and oversized midsole, these shoes from Whitin are a splendid pick for men with wide toes and a knack for casual jogging. It received stellar reviews from Amazon customers for extra comfy cushioning and durable support.

The upper is made of a honeycomb-looking mesh that allows air to breeze through and keep the moisture away. One of the more noticeable features is the thick foam outsole that provides a huge amount of bounce back to keep you moving at a consistent speed.

The shoe’s oversized EVA midsole reaches from heel to toe with a low differential to keep your body balance. The padded tongue and adjustable lace-up design make sure your feet and ankle stay in place throughout, not to mention the lacing can also go over the front of your ankle for more arch support. You can always count on these Whitin men’s sneakers for a well-rounded running experience.

Best for Walking All Day: Skechers Performance GOwalk Lite Isla

Key features

• Lightweight injection-molded midsole
• Goga Max insole
• 5Gen cushioning
• Decorative metal eyelets

Product specs:

Part of the stylish women’s Gowalk Lite collection, Skechers Gowalk Lite Isla is one of the best casual walking shoes you can find anywhere, with an iconic design and high-rebound cushioning for all-day comfort.

This boat-style shoe has a knit fabric upper with some stretchy laces that are super easy to slip on. Its bottom is crafted with care to offer great traction on wet and smooth surfaces, so it is great to take out for a walk under a light drizzle.

One of Skechers’ trademark technology, the high-rebound 5Gen cushioning is flexible and lightweight. It also has Skechers’ innovative Goga Max technology in the insole that is excellent for comfort.

The list does not end there! The collar is reinforced with overlay trim, and soft fabric lining decorates the interior, while the midsole is integrated with injection-molded material for a more responsive walking experience. Get ready for the day with these awesome boat shoes from Skechers Performance!

Best for Men: Skechers Men’s GOwalk Max Slip-on Shoe

Key features

• Slip-on design
• 5Gen midsole cushioning
• Goga Max high-rebound insole
• Convenient rear pull tab
• Carries XX sizes

Product specs

One of the first models of men walkers from Skechers, the GOwalk Max’s low-profile design still holds its own with a classy form, satisfactory cushioning, and sturdy materials.

This boat shoe is incredibly lightweight and super-breathable thanks to the weave mesh fabric throughout the upper. The material is really stretchy to give you a customizable fit once you slide your foot in, with a heel pull-tab that makes for an easy on-and-off. It has extra padding in the heel along with built-in panels for excellent stability.

What’s more, it has the proprietary Skechers GOwalk Max midsole that is thick with plenty of cushioning for amazing comfort. The outsole is made of sturdy rubber material with treaded bottom to keep you steady even on slick surfaces and deliver the flexibility you need.

For shock-absorption, the Goga Max technology insole will offer maximum support and tons of breathability, while the 5GEN midsole is a trademark injection-molded compound with memory retention to absorb impact – it’s like walking on a cooling yoga mat!

Best for Tennis: Crocs Women’s LiteRide Pacer Sneaker

Key features

• Hybrid-style sneakers
• Matlite upper
• LiteRide insole
• Croslite foam outsole

Product specs

Are you in search of a tennis shoe that can also pass for casual wear? Look no further than these innovative Crocs LiteRide Pacer. It might look dainty but do not let the look fool you – this is as capable a sports shoe like any other expensive choices out there.

At the top sits a flexible and lightweight Matlite upper to give you free-range movement. There is also padding around the tongue and collar for some extra softness. On the inside is the next generation LiteRide foam that is soft, bouncy, and extraordinarily resilient. The insole is made with little bumps inside that feel like a mini massage underneath your feet.

On the bottom is Crocs signature Croslit foam outsole to provide you with tons of support and comfort. The best part is that the upper includes little holes that allow maximum airflow so that it dries super quickly – perfect for an outdoor practice session even under the rain!

Best for Budget: BRONAX Graffiti Personality Sneakers

Key features

• High top design
• Non-marking rubber sole
• Lace-up front

Product specs

Offering amazing cushiony feeling at an affordable price, these Bronax Graffiti Sneakers are the real bang for the buck, offering both style and substance.

The shoe’s high-top upper is made up of mesh and vinyl with faux leather for reinforcement and decoration, with an extendable padded tongue. The non-marking rubber outsole is carefully crafted to include side groves that are flexible and give amazing bounce-back.

In addition to a convenient slip-on design, the laces are adjustable all the way to give you that personalized fit. The tall tongue and back heel have extra padding to provide premium comfort throughout the day. They are suitable for many activities, and the unique design will definitely turn heads when you walk down the street.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Shock-Absorbing Shoes?

The health benefits of shock-absorbing shoes cannot be ignored. It is important, particularly for women who have problems like flat feet and overpronation, to choose the right shoes.

You should pay attention to the following factors when choosing shock-absorbing shoes:

Sizing & Fit

Choosing the size of a shoe is a critical aspect when going through intense movements or normal walking. Getting a shoe that is too small because you want a better fit or one that is too wide can create unwanted friction around the foot, not to mention constraints that can have an effect on your natural gait.

To determine the right fit, when trying on your shoe, bring the toes to the ends of the shoe. A shoe is a right fit if you can slip your forefinger in between the heel and the back of your foot.

Shock Absorbers

It is important to consider the ways shoes disperse shock that does not interfere with the way your joints and muscles normally absorb impact. Efficient body movement combined with a good shock-absorbing shoe can help you prevent or greatly mitigate injuries.

The shoe has to have heel and foot pad cushioning, a shock-absorbing midsole, and a durable and dense rubber outsole in order to achieve this.

Support Type

Anti-pronation shoes are considered essential in the world of footwear. Finding a shoe that supports your natural pronation type instead of increasing it is important. In any case, denser foam supports in the center of the heel need to be in place.

Weight

There are a few important reasons why you want your shoes to be as lightweight as possible. In the long run, wearing heavy shoes will be likely to tire your legs, leave you exhausted and shorten your time in training. For better results, you’ll want to get the lightest shoe possible that allows you to move around for longer periods of time.

However, the more shock-absorbing properties the shoe has, the more likely it is to be a heavier shoe. That’s why you need to be precise when making a decision.

Types Of Shock-Absorbing Shoes

We can categorize shock-absorbing shoes based on the technology applied to make them – you know – shock-absorbent. There are a few different technologies you can find in your footwear, some of them specially developed by their respective brand:

GEL Cushioning

This form of cushioning is used in ASICS footwear and can be put in either the front or rear foot or even both. It’s a gel compound that is efficient in absorbing and spreading shock and allows for a strong rebound.

ABZORB Midsole

New Balance shoes’ midsoles are made of a mix of Dupont Engage rubber isoprene and proprietary foam materials. Their shape is consistent throughout and is used primarily in the heel and front of the foot for its cushioning properties.

RE-ZORB Cushioning

This Ryka’s trademark cushioning features cobblestone pods on the outsole and covers the entire length of a shoe’s midsole to provide optimum comfort and responsive cushioning. Its mechanic is most suited for neutral support for women.

Memory Foam

A handful of walking and lifestyle shoe brands, including Skechers, use memory foam in the insole to offer both support and extreme comfort. This material leans more on the soft side, so it is not ideal for intense workouts and jogging.

EVA

Ethylene-vinyl acetate is widely considered the industry-standard sole material for athletic shoes. Its flexible and soft properties make for adequate cushioning and shock-absorption for the midsole and outsole.

Frequently Asked Questions

We are close to the end, and you may have many inquiries about the best shock-absorbing shoe that you can buy. Maybe your question has been answered below:

What is the most shock-absorbing material?

Many materials can qualify as being shock-absorbing, but not everything is appropriate to put inside a shoe. Usually, any variety of rubber, neoprene, or silicone can be used as shock-absorber for footwear, and different manufacturers will implement them in different ways.

Do I put orthotic inserts above or below my existing shock-absorbing insole?

Either kind of placement is acceptable and does not interfere with the inserts’ support for your feet. You might want to put the shelf-ready insole over your custom one just to protect it better.

What are the benefits of a lightweight shock-absorbing shoe compared to one with more stability?

Many runners benefit from a shoe that has heavier stability support and protection against pronation. If you don’t pronate, a lightweight pair of shoes with adequate shock-absorption should serve you fine for mild exercises and short-distance running.

I have narrow feet but wide toes. Is there a super narrow shock-absorbing shoe I can buy?

The New Balance Men’s 680 V6 and many models from New Balance offer wide-ranging sizes that you can buy. If finding a good fit is too hard, try using shoe inserts to add an extra layer of height for your feet.

I only experience pain in one of my feet. Should I use normal runners and put orthotics in one shoe instead of buying a whole pair of shock-absorbing shoes?

Wearing an insert in only one shoe will cause one side of your body to be more elevated and may put you off balance. This might cause your hip to dislocate in the long run, so it is better to wear two shoes that are even in height or wear orthotics in both shoes.

How should I properly maintain my shock-absorbing shoes?

The cushioning material in shock-absorbing shoes, such as foam, usually needs time to return to form after intense use. You should rotate between two pairs or more if you exercise often. It is also better to avoid wearing your exercise shoe for daily use to help them last longer.

My Top Picks

After all are said and done, my first top pick for best shock-absorbing shoes of 2021 is the Ryka Women’s Devotion Plus 2. Its woman-centric design is comfortable, supportive, and versatile to protect your feet in a lot of situations.

The second pick would be Skechers GOwalk Max for its lightweight construction and comfy in-shoe feeling.

The bottom line is that investing in shock-absorbing shoes is definitely worthwhile, so you should absolutely keep an eye out for a pair the next time you are out shopping!