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Looking for the best shoes for Achilles tendonitis? Don’t hesitate! Read on now to find out the top 8 best ones now trending in 2021 before buying anything!
The best shoes for Achilles tendonitis can be the proper way for people who suffer from this to stand, run, and even walk normally while their feet heal. You don’t need to suffer the pain from bad shoes. Throw them away and buy something better.
Achilles tendonitis can happen to everyone, not only the athletes or someone who loves sports. If you overuse this tendon or suffer an injury, you can fall into this bad condition. Choosing the right pair of shoes can help you get over it and continue your life better.
However, there are so many shoes in the market now; you may not know which ones are suitable for you and can waste money on the wrong products. Don’t worry; I am here to help. I have picked the top 8 best shoes for Achilles tendonitis in 2021 for you below.
Let’s roll on to find out more.
Table of Contents
- What Are The Best Shoes For Achilles Tendonitis
- All Shoes For Achilles Tendonitis – Comparison Chart
- Top 8 Best Shoes For Achilles Tendonitis Reviews in 2022
- ASICS Gel Nimbus 23 Running Shoes (Best Overall)
- ASICS Glide Ride Running Shoes (Best For Women)
- Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20 shoes (Best For Men)
- Adidas Ultraboost 4.0 DNA Running Shoes (Best For Running)
- Skechers Go Walk Max Slip-on Walking Shoes (Best For Walking)
- KEEN Revel 3 Hiking Boots (Best For Hiking)
- Hoka One One Bondi 7 Running Shoes (Best For Insertional Achilles Tendonitis)
- Orthofeet Gramercy Oxford Shoes (Best Men’s Work Shoes)
- Buying Guide: How To Choose The Best Shoes For Achilles Tendonitis
- FAQs
- My Top Picks
What Are The Best Shoes For Achilles Tendonitis
Some of the best shoes for Achilles tendonitis can satisfy someone with narrow feet and a high arch. However, you may not like these because your feet are wider and have a normal arch. Moreover, some shoes are suitable for one’s purposes, but some aren’t.
To help you ease your decision, I labeled all my top 8 best shoes based on the same number of popular reasons people choose their shoes for Achilles tendonitis. Match them with your needs, and you can find your dream ones.
ASICS Gel Nimbus 23 Running Shoes – Best Overall
“Multi-directional mesh upper; Gel cushioning; Flytefoam Propel technology; Suitable for neutral and under pronation.”
ASICS Glide Ride Running Shoes – Good For Women
“Multi-directional mesh upper; Flyte foam technology; Gel cushioning system; Guidesole technology; Suitable for normal-size arches.”
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20 shoes – Good For Men
“Mesh upper with 3D fit print; Guide Rails support system; DNA Loft crash pad cushion; Suitable for flat feet.”
Adidas Ultraboost 4.0 DNA Running Shoes – Good For Running
“Primeknit textile upper; Fixed shoe tongue; Continental rubber outsole; Made with recycled material.”
Skechers Go Walk Max Slip-on Walking Shoes – Good For Walking
“Breathable mesh upper; Responsive 5Gen cushioning; Goga max high rebound insole; Lightweight.”
KEEN Revel 3 Hiking Boots – Good For Hiking
“Rubber sole; Leather and synthetic upper; Breathable waterproof membrane; Tri-layer heat system underfoot; Grippy traction outsole.”
Hoka One One Bondi 7 Running Shoes – Good For Insertional Achilles Tendonitis
“Rubber sole; Breathable textile mesh upper; Removable foam pad insole; Durable EVA midsole.”
Orthofeet Gramercy Oxford Shoes – Good Men’s Work Shoes
“Soft leather upper; Wide toe box; Ergonomic sole; Extra foam padding collar; Seamless interior; Heel cushioning.”
All Shoes For Achilles Tendonitis – Comparison Chart
Before moving to the review section, I want to show you my top-list comparison table. There are four main factors that affect the shoes. Let’s check them clearly in the section below.
| BEST SHOES FOR ACHILLES TENDONITIS | Heel Drop (mm) | Weight (oz) | Foot Type | Upper Material |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASICS Gel Nimbus 23 Running Shoes | 10 (Men) 13 (Women) | 10.9 (Men) 8.9 (Women) | Neutral, underpronation | Mesh |
| ASICS Glide Ride Running Shoes | 5 | 10.2 (Men) 8.1 (Women) | Neutral | Mesh |
| Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20 shoes | 12 | 10.6 (Men) 9.4 (Women) | Overpronation | Synthetic and mesh |
| Adidas Ultraboost 4.0 DNA Running Shoes | 10 | 10.9 (Men) 9.5 (Women) | Overpronation | Primeknit textile |
| Skechers Go Walk Max Slip-on Walking Shoes | 3 | 7.5 (Men) 5.3 (Women) | Neutral | Textile |
| KEEN Revel 3 Hiking Boots | 10 (Men) 12 (Women) | 20.4 (Men) 16.8 (Women) | Underpronation | Leather |
| Hoka One One Bondi 7 Running Shoes | 4 | 10.7 (Men) 8.9 (Women) | Neutral | Mesh |
| Orthofeet Gramercy Oxford Shoes | 2 | 8.5 | Overpronation | Leather |
Top 8 Best Shoes For Achilles Tendonitis Reviews in 2022
After this information above, I think you can have a general view of my top 8 best shoes for Achilles tendonitis. This section is where I explain to you in detail why I choose them in the list. Please read it carefully.
ASICS Gel Nimbus 23 Running Shoes (Best Overall)
In my opinion, the ASICS Gel Nimbus 23 shoes are the best overall ones for Achilles tendonitis. They heritage all the conveniences of older versions in their Nimbus range and were named like clouds to imply that they are soft enough to erase your pain.
Key Features:
- Multi-directional mesh upper
- Gel cushioning technology
- Flytefoam propel technology
- Heel-to-toe drop: 10 – 13mm
- Foot Type: Neutral, under pronation
- Weight: 8.9 – 10.9oz
Product Specifications:
| Brand | ASICS |
| Heel Drop | 10 – 13mm |
| Weight | 8.9 – 10.9oz |
| Foot Type | Neutral, under pronation |
| Upper Material | Mesh |
Design And Material
It is true to say that the Nimbus 23 has a classical design like older ASICS running shoes. There are no innovative things from the outside. If you love fashionable shoes or some kinds of creative things, you may want to switch to other shoes.
However, the classic design, like a plastic midfoot shank, can save your painful feet. You can’t sink into the heel when moving, standing, or even running. Your Achilles tendon will not be strained anymore.
Comfort And Breathability
Most people love the Nimbus 23 because of its mesh upper. If you grab the shoe and look closer, you can see some light shine through it. This means these shoes are breathable and can bring more comfort if you need to wear them for more than four or five hours a day.
The heel collar is padded and snug. You don’t need to worry that it will slip out after you put your foot in or run half of the way. If you are suffering from Achilles tendonitis or this condition was in your past, the collar of Nimbus 23 will ease your pain and make sure it won’t happen again.
- Snug, non-slip collar
- Padded tongue for a soft feeling
- Roomy toe box
- True to size
- Gel cushioning absorb shock greatly
- Breathable and excellent fit upper
- It can make the feet feel hot in the long-running
If you want to know how people test the Nimbus 23 in reality, please see the video below:
ASICS Glide Ride Running Shoes (Best For Women)
The Glide Ride shoes are the best for women with the well-made, fashionable look and have more than five bright colors. If you need to add more fun, more comfort when running or working out at the gym, the ASICS Glide Ride shoes are the right choice for you.
Key Features:
- Guidesole technology
- Engineered mesh upper
- Flytefoam midsole technology
- Gel cushioning system
- Rubber outsole
- Suitable for neutral foot type
- Heel drop: 5mm
Product Specifications:
| Brand | ASICS |
| Heel Drop | 5 mm |
| Weight | 8.1 – 10.2oz |
| Foot Type | Neutral |
| Upper Material | Mesh |
Innovative Design
The rocker form of the ASICS Glide Ride shoes is proven to help your joint and Achilles tendon, based on the sports research at Loughborough University. It makes the shoes look like a couple of bananas with the front angle going upward.
This innovative style can make you feel weird when walking or treadmilling; however, it is fantastic for you to run on flat and even roads. The shoes tend to give you propulsion when running and make you feel better when you practice for a long time.
Convenient Features
The heel counters of the Glide Ride are padded and soft enough for your tendon. They are filled with foam and firm enough to keep your ankle stable along the run. Besides, the upper mesh is dense and can keep your feet warm inside.
The toe box is not small when compared to other models of ASICS. However, if your toes are big, remember to choose the right size. My advice, in this case, is you can buy up to half the size as normal; these still work well.
The midsole of a Glide Ride shoe has a duo foam system. The top is Flytefoam, and the bottom is Flytefoam Propel. Between these materials is the gel cushioning. However, if you look close enough, you can see the gel is smaller than the Nimbus shoes.
- Padded, well-made collars
- Cushioned and responsive midsole
- Creative design to propel runners
- Stable for a long run
- Softer and bouncier than other ASICS shoes
- Perform well on flat road or race
- The seams inside the shoe can irritate sensitive feet if wearing a thin sock
Both men and women who love running like the ASICS Glide Ride shoes. Let’s see how people test these ones in the video below:
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20 shoes (Best For Men)
I chose the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20 to label the best for men’s shoes because of its design and multifunctions. If you want a pair of versatile shoes that can work well in both running and walking, you should give the Adrenaline 20 a try.
Key Features:
- DNA LOFT pad cushions
- 3D Fit Print mesh upper
- Guide Rails holistic support system
- Rubber sole
- Suitable for overpronation
Products Specifications:
| Brand | Brooks |
| Heel Drop | 12 mm |
| Weight | 9.4 – 10.6oz |
| Foot Type | Overpronation |
| Upper Material | Mesh and synthetic |
Design And Material
If you compare the Adrenaline 20 with its predecessor 19, you can easily realize that some decorations in the mesh are removed. That’s the reason why the 20 model is lighter.
Moreover, the heel collar is upgraded with more foam to create a comfy feeling for runners. You don’t have to worry about your Achilles tendon with these shoes. Even after a long run, there are no more sore spots or blisters that can bother you.
DNA LOFT pad is the new material that Brooks uses to replace the EVA foam system. It can bring you both softness and responsiveness.
Convenient Features
The Guide Rails system is the most creative thing that Brooks brings to their Adrenaline 20. This thing can keep your foot in the right position and help you protect your knees and calves.
However, you don’t feel the shoe put pressure on your foot while it actually supports your gait. It is because of the 3D Fit Print technology. The upper mesh can cover your arch naturally and make your shoe look well-designed.
- Comfy, padded collar to protect your tendon well
- Responsive and durable
- Protect both knees and hips in running
- A well-cushioned midsole for overpronation support
- Erase foot pain and blister
- Suitable for both running and walking, many beautiful color options
- The toe area can be torn out after running if you have big toes
This video will show you more details about the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20 shoes:
Adidas Ultraboost 4.0 DNA Running Shoes (Best For Running)
If you need the best running shoes that can be suitable for your Achilles tendonitis, I suggested the Adidas Ultraboost 4.0 DNA. These have the fashion design you can use from the gym to the street and still feel like walking on the clouds.
Key Features:
- Ultra Boost midsole
- Sock-like fit
- Midfoot cage support
- Continental rubber outsole
- Primeknit textile upper
- Prime Blue recycled material
- Fixed shoe tongue
Products Specifications:
| Brand | Adidas |
| Heel Drop | 10 mm |
| Weight | 9.5 – 10.9oz |
| Foot Type | Overpronation |
| Upper Material | Primeknit textile |
Design And Material
If you care about the environment, the Ultraboost 4.0 DNA will be your proper choice. Adidas claimed that the main material they used to make these shoes are Prime Blue yarn – a recycled, non-polyester material. This is nice, high-performance, and durable too.
These shoes can bring you both comfort and nice design in basic colors like black and white. You can wear them as sneakers for daily walking or trainers for practicing time. However, the shoe tongues are fixed, so if you have trouble when putting feet in, use the shoehorn to help.
Convenient Features
Many runners love the Boost technology of Adidas because this helps them get more energy returns and give underfoot cushioning enough to feel soft and comfy. Once you put the shoes in, you can feel instantly comfortable, and after a long run, you can still feel the same.
The continental rubber outsole can grip well even if you run on the road, grasses, or wet pavement. The Primeknit upper gives you a seamless, non-irritated feeling. However, it is too dense to provide you with breathability in hot weather or conditions.
Moreover, the heel lockdown is well-built. Your tendon will not be strained after hours of running or walking. The foot cage can keep your foot in the right place and is very useful in long-running situations.
- Cushioning midsole deliver a spring-like and bouncy feeling
- Soft for Achilles’ tendons
- Great support for arches, especially the overpronators
- True to size
- Fit greatly for narrow and medium foot
- Work well on running, walking, jogging and workout at gyms
- The wide foot needs a shoehorn to get in
If you want to know more about the Adidas Ultraboost 4.0 DNA shoes, please see the video below:
Skechers Go Walk Max Slip-on Walking Shoes (Best For Walking)
I bet you have more than one pair of shoes to change for each occasion. If you worry about your Achilles tendonitis and want to find something you can wear to walk all day, let the Skechers Go Walk Max – the best running shoes on my list – make it right for you.
Key Features:
- Slip-on design
- Mesh fabric upper
- Goga Max technology insole
- 5Gen midsole technology
- Rubber outsole
- Suitable for neutral foot
Products Specifications:
| Brand | Skechers |
| Heel Drop | 3 mm |
| Weight | 5.3 – 7.5oz |
| Foot Type | Neutral |
| Upper Material | Textile |
Design And Material
People said the Skechers Go Walk Max shoes are made for walking day by day on hard surfaces. It is true because of the slip-on design. You don’t be mad with the laces like other shoes, just put your foot on and done.
There is a pull tab at the end of the heel. It can help you ease on taking on and off your shoes without a shoehorn. Moreover, the upper and midsole are cushioned; they can give you the feeling like you are walking on a pillow, so soft and comfy.
The 5Gen technology is applied on the midsole with memory retention to absorb the shock and responsiveness. You can feel soft and bouncy at the same time.
Convenient Features
The Skechers Go Walk Max shoes are very lightweight. You can wear it to stand and walk on the concrete for more than 8 hours a day without any pain. The heel collar is snug and can lockdown your foot easily.
You can wear these shoes with or without socks like slippers. The mesh upper is seamless and cushioned to satisfy your foot instantly when you get it on. It is breathable and flexible too. You can go for a walk or go to work on it easily.
- Breathable and flexible on walking
- Comfy and soft on the heel collar
- True to size, fit ideally on foot
- Super lightweight
- Soothe the pain when walking or standing too long
- No laces messing
- The outsole lacks gripping on wet or smooth surfaces
Let’s see the video below to know more about Skechers Go Walk Max slip-on shoes:
KEEN Revel 3 Hiking Boots (Best For Hiking)
The KEEN Revel 3 boots are unique in my list. They are the best for hiking and are different from the other shoes because they can handle the hard weather and conditions like snow, mud, or dirt.
Key Features:
- KEEN warm technology
- Waterproof KEEN dry membrane
- KEEN warm insulation material
- Rubber sole
- Heat Trapolator system
- Foot type: Underpronation
Products Specifications:
| Brand | KEEN |
| Heel Drop | 10 – 12mm |
| Weight | 16.8 – 20.4oz |
| Foot Type | Underpronation |
| Upper Material | Leather |
Design And Material
The KEEN Revel 3 has the typical hiking boots design with a high collar and roomy toe box. The footbed of these shoes is a little bigger than other boots. That will please someone who has wide feet. However, if you don’t have this kind of foot, my advice is to wear thick wool socks.
The leather KEEN used on these Revel 3 boots is waterproof. They can keep your feet dry in snowy or rainy weather. There is KEEN warm insulation weight 200g that can protect you from the cold outside.
The dual-compound rubber outsoles are great at boot traction. Even if you walk on thick snow or wet streets, those boots can prevent you from sliding or slipping.
Convenient Features
I think the midsole structure of the KEEN Revel 3 boot is the most interesting thing. They use EVA as the main material, like ASICS shoes. However, the manufacturer added their tri-layer Heat Trapolator system to boost the warmth in your underfoot.
Meanwhile, the midsole still supports your arch and gives you the responsiveness you want when walking and hiking.
Besides, there are two pull-on loops added on the tongues and counter. These small additions can help you put on and off the boots easier.
- Great toe box for wide feet
- Good waterproof to keep the foot warm and dry
- Great on traction at slipping surfaces
- Provide sufficient arch and heel support
- Lighter than normal hiking boots
- Comfortable and durable to wear for a long time
- The laces are hard to tight for a snugger collar
If you want to know more about the KEEN Revel 3 boots, please see the video below:
Hoka One One Bondi 7 Running Shoes (Best For Insertional Achilles Tendonitis)
If you need a pair of cushioned shoes to comfy your feet, choose the Hoka One One Bondi 7 – the best shoes for insertional Achilles tendonitis. These ones give you the softest ride and can be worn all day on all occasions.
Key Features:
- Rubber sole
- Mesh upper with seamless overlays
- Foam padded insole
- Full-length EVA midsole
- Memory foam heel collar
- Low heel drop: 4mm
Products Specifications:
| Brand | Hoka One One |
| Heel Drop | 4mm |
| Weight | 8.9 – 10.7oz |
| Foot Type | Neutral |
| Upper Material | Mesh |
Design And Material
The Hoka One One Bondi 7 shoes have the rocker form with curved style. However, the forefoot is cushioned enough to offer the low heel drop. You can walk on these trainers without weird feeling like the ASICS Glide Ride shoes.
The Bondi 7 are well-cushioned so that they are bigger than other Hoka or normal running shoes. The soles are added with more foam, so they look thicker and make the shoes heavier. If you need a recovery run or a casual walk, don’t mind those negative things.
Convenient Features
A part of the Bondi 7 that people love the most is a heel collar. It is well-made with memory foam, so it can hug your foot and lock the heel easier. If you have insertional Achilles tendonitis, this collar will treat you well.
The upper is made of mesh but adds more cushion beneath. It makes runners feel like they put their foot into a soft pillow, and every stride is smooth, like walking on the clouds. However, some people can feel it snug their forefoot too much and feel hot after a long run.
- Great heel and foot lockdown
- Soft feeling around Achilles’ tendons
- Soft and stable ride
- Comfortable for running, walking, jogging, and so forth
- Smooth heel-to-toe transition
- True to size
- Not suitable for adding speed in running
Orthofeet Gramercy Oxford Shoes (Best Men’s Work Shoes)
All the shoes on my list can match your normal outfits. However, they aren’t suitable to wear with suits, go to work, or wear on special occasions. It’s time for you to try the best men’s work shoes for Achille tendonitis – the Orthofeet Gramercy ones.
Key Features:
- Oxford classic design
- Orthotic and ergonomic insole
- Anatomical arch support
- Seamless interior
- Roomy toe box
- Foam padding heel collar
Products Specifications:
| Brand | Orthofeet |
| Heel Drop | 2mm |
| Weight | 8.5oz |
| Foot Type | Overpronation |
| Upper Material | Leather |
Design And Material
The Orthofeet Gramercy shoes are exactly what a gentleman wants. You can wear them with your suits and go to work politely while your feet feel like walking on clouds. These shoes add multilayers of foam to enhance comfort and reduce muscle strain.
The upper of the shoes are made from 100% leather. However, there is more room for your wiggle toes. The manufacturers made it wide enough to feel comfortable inside and still keep a nice look for the shoes from the outside.
Convenient Features
Many people think only running shoes or trainers have a soft counter that can soothe Achilles tendonitis. However, they might not have known about the Orthofeet Gramercy shoes. The extra foam padding in the collar can erase all the pain and worry on your tendons.
With the help of anatomical arch support and heel cushioning, you can now go to work comfortably when your calf muscles heal. The seamless interior is another cool thing about the Gramercy shoe. There are no irritations on your sensitive feet anymore.
- Classical and attractive Oxford shoe design
- Suitable for formal occasions and working area
- Great for wide feet
- Comfortable to wear all-day
- Effective pain relief for heel and foot
- Non-irritated interior
- Narrow feet need to choose a half to one size smaller
Buying Guide: How To Choose The Best Shoes For Achilles Tendonitis
After reading my reviews, you may wonder what the main metrics can guide you to choose the best shoes for Achilles tendonitis. Let me help you by analyzing all the possible factors that can affect your choice below.
Arch Support
The arch is the middle part of your foot. People have different types of arch as a high arch (also called under pronation), a normal-size arch (neutral or neutral-pronation), and a low arch or flat foot (overpronation).
A midsole of a shoe usually targets to support your arch. You need to choose the right form of the shoe to fit your foot ideally the most so that it can promote all its abilities to help you when you move.
Cushioning Collar
The Achilles tendons are located in the back of your leg, right above the heel bone. It is important to choose a cushioning shoe collar when you have trouble with these tendons.
A shoe collar needs to be cushioned enough to bring the soft feeling and secure your foot inside. Like the interior of a shoe, it has to be seamless to give you non-irritation, sore spots, or blisters.
Moreover, the soft collar can give less strain to your ankle and your heel. It makes you run and walk comfortably.
Heel Drop
The heel drop or heel-to-toe drop is measured to compare how high the heel is to the toe. If the heel is lifted, your foot is angled downward. It is good for your tendons when your heel rubs less or rarely rubs with the shoe.
The higher the heel drop, the better for Achilles tendonitis you can get. When you put on the heel lifting shoes, your weight tends downward to other parts of the feet, except your heels. Those tendons can take some strain off, and if they are damaged before, they can heal better.
Toe Box
A roomy toe box can make you feel more comfortable when walking or running around. If the toe box is narrow, the weight and force on your foot will move to the heel. In this case, your Achilles tendonitis will get worse.
A toe box that is wide enough can make you put on and off the shoe better. It also helps you control your stride and your gait, even if you use the shoe for many hours.
FAQs
When you are reading this section, I bet you have so many questions to ask. Therefore, I choose the most frequently asked questions about the best shoes for Achilles tendonitis to answer below. Read on now; you may find what you want to know here.
Can Shoes Affect Your Achilles Tendonitis?
Yes, they can. The wrong shoes can affect your Achilles tendonitis and make it worse. If you wear shoes with stiff collars or lack cushioning, you can easily have foot and heel pain.
Wearing high-heel shoes for a long time can make your tendons more vulnerable, and they can be torn easier.
Does Wearing Shoes Help Achille Tendonitis?
Yes, it does, in case you choose the proper shoes. The supportive footwear can help you prevent this bad condition or soothe your foot pain and give you enough time to heal. Make sure you choose the shoes that fit you ideally and are cushioned enough.
Why Do My Shoes Hurt My Achilles?
There are three main reasons that shoes can hurt your Achilles. First, The forefoot soles of those shoes are too hard and not cushioning enough. Second, maybe your shoe heels are too high. Third, the shoe collar may not be padded enough to secure your heel.
Can Flip Flops Cause Achilles Tendonitis?
Yes, they can. Most flip flops have no arch support, no shock absorption, or lack of cushioning. If you wear them too long or too far, you can suffer from Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, or other foot pains.
Are Zero Drop Shoes Good For Achilles Tendonitis?
No, they aren’t. A pair of shoes with zero drop heels can add more tension to your tendons. You should avoid them and choose the right shoes that have 4 to 12mm heel drops.
Can I Wear Heels With Achilles Tendonitis?
You can wear shoes with lifted heels with Achilles Tendonitis. However, the heel drops need to be from 4 to 12mm. Your shoes should be cushioning enough to give a soft and comfy feeling.
You should not wear high heels shoes for a long time, especially when you have Achilles tendonitis.
My Top Picks
After listing and reviewing for you all the top 8 best shoes for Achilles tendonitis, I hope you can find what you need the most. Among those, my best recommendations are the ASICS Gel Nimbus 23 running shoes. My second favorite one is the Skechers Go Walk Max shoes.
Do you agree or disagree with me? Do you know the other best shoes for Achilles tendonitis? Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts with me in the comment box below. And remember to share this information to discuss with your friends. Hope you are happy with your dream shoes!