Best Shoes For Shin Splints

Best Shoes For Shin Splints
A problem frequently faced by an athlete or by anyone who regularly engages in high-intensity running and walking is shin splints. Shin splints are essentially the discomfort or pain caused by excessive exertion upon the muscle and bone tissue of the large front bone of the lower leg, i.e., the shinbone. Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome is the medical term for shin splints.

 

Shin splints are also caused by the usage of unsuitable running or walking shoes. This problem can be easily rectified through the purchase of the best shoes for shin splints.

 

The best shoes for shin splints aren’t regular sports shoes; these are athletic shoes specifically designed to both prohibit and cure the problem of shin splints.

 

The ideal best shoes for shin splints will not only decrease the intensity of the symptoms but also prevent further damage to the shinbone due to shin splints.

 

While perusing through the myriad of options available for shoes that help with shin splints, one must be aware of the essential features that curate the best shoes for shin splints. What are the characteristics that help identify both the best running shoes for shin splints and the best walking shoes for shin splints?

 

At A Glance

 

Table of Contents

Best Shoes For Shin Splints – Top Picks Compared

Preview Product Buy Now
Saucony Hurricane ISO 5 Saucony Hurricane ISO 5 Check Price on Amazon
Brooks Bedlam Brooks Bedlam Check Price on Amazon
Asics Gel Kayano 25 Asics Gel Kayano 25 Check Price on Amazon
Adidas Ultra Boost ST Adidas Ultra Boost ST Check Price on Amazon
Hoka One One Clifton 6 Hoka One One Clifton 6 Check Price on Amazon
Adidas Adizero Adios 4 Adidas Adizero Adios 4 Check Price on Amazon

 

How To Identify The Best Shoes For Shin Splints?

 

The best shoes for shin splints are identified by the following qualities:

  1. Generous amount of padding to help in balanced dispersion of weight.
  2. Comfortable cushioning to absorb the impact caused by running or walking on the outsole, midsole, and insole. For example:
    • Memory Foam Cushioning for stability and arch support.
    • EVA Cushioning for resistance to extreme temperatures.
    • Gel Cushioning to protect from high-intensity activity.
    • DNA AMP Cushioning to renew energy to the runner’s midsole.
  1. Shock Absorbency enables the runner’s shoes to absorb the impact of the shock before their feet touch a hardened surface.
  2. Flexibility and Mobility
  3. Breathability
  4. Pronation Control (to prevent the excessive collapse of the arches of the feet)
  5. Durability is an essential factor to take into consideration when purchasing shoes for splint pain. Good running shoes for shin splints ensure the longevity and sturdiness of the shoe’s cushioning. Shoes that help with shin splints should be able to withstand daily wear and tear.

 

This article will feature a lot of important information for the best shoes for shin splints, best running shoes for shin splints, best walking shoes for shin splints, best men’s running shoes for shin splints, and best women’s running shoes for shin splints.

 

Its contents are divided into two parts:

  • Walking Vs Running
  • Women Vs Men

 

A. Walking Vs Running

While shin splints are often attributed to overexertion caused by activities high in intensity – such as running, aerobics, and swimming, walking is also a recurrent cause. This doesn’t mean that the general activity of walking causes shin splints; it means that taking up walking suddenly, after an extended period of immobility and rest, or rapidly walking an extreme distance, or walking upon rocky and hardened surfaces could result in overexertion along the shinbone. Often, shin splints through walking are caused by flat feet as well.

 

One cannot avoid walking to prevent shin splints; walking is a basic activity required in day-to-day life. The simplest and most effective solution? Purchase of the best walking shoes for shin splints.

 

a. Best Walking Shoes for Shin Splints

 

1. Saucony Hurricane ISO 5

Best Walking Shoes for Shin Splints

 

Saucony Hurricane ISO 5 Check Price on Amazon

 

Saucony offers some of the best shoes that help with shin splints. The company offers four options in their stability lineup: the Liberty, the Guide, the Omni, and the Hurricane.

 

The Hurricane offers the most stability out of all the four different types of shoes. The Hurricane ISO 5’s in particular, are the best shoes for shin splints offered by the company and compete with other big brands such as Asics while being priced much lower.

 

Saucony implements its signature Everrun topsole technology with this shoe along with the ISOFit upper, creating a balanced sole structure. The midsole also utilizes Everrun technology and runs through the entire shoe, giving it a feeling of being worn-in despite being brand new which keeps your feet from having to acclimate to the shoe while also maintaining support throughout the foot.

 

Although the sole is a little heavy and can become a hindrance when running, it is perfect for walking and is one of the best shoes for shin splints in that respect. The outsole of the shoe is made of a material called Crystal Rubber and is intended to increase flexibility in the shoe while also maintaining traction so that you don’t slip even when walking on wet or icy roads.

Pros

  • It fits extremely well and gives you a worn-in feel even when you are wearing the shoes for the first time.
  • The tongue doesn’t slide from side to side but stays in one place throughout your walk, eliminating the need to constantly stop and readjust your shoes.
  • Great cushioning and support, one of the best sneakers for shin splints.
  • Very durable and will last you a long time, which is the best sign of a good running shoe for shin splints.

Cons

  • Although cheaper than its competitors, it can still be quite costly. It retails at $165, but some websites offer it at heavy discounts, bringing the price as far down as $70.
  • The upper of the shoe tends to warm up quickly, which can cause some irritation while walking or running.
  • The midsole is also a little heavy and can slow you down when walking or running.

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2. Brooks Bedlam

 

Brooks Bedlam Check Price on Amazon

 

After gaining immense success with the Levitate, Brooks has come out with their new shoe: the Bedlam. It is described by many as the Levitate with additional stability and is one of the best sneakers for shin splints. Brooke’s DNA Amp midsole is what makes up the sole of the shoe. The midsole is made up of polyurethane and feels springy when running, meaning you don’t have to put in too much effort when walking or running with this shoe.

 

Brooks has spent a lot of time and effort marketing this product, and it is front and center in their line up of running/walking shoes, competing with brands such as Adidas and Asics. The shoe is a little heavy and can slow you down at times, but the support and comfort more than make up for it, especially if you’re looking for a shoe that is one of the best sneakers for shin splints. The dense plates at the bottom of the shoe are what give you the support it is known for and keeps you from overpronation, which, as mentioned, is one of the leading causes of shin splints.

 

The bottom of the shoe doesn’t create a lot of traction, however, and you might find yourself slipping if you’re out on wet or snowy roads. The upper of the shoe has a sock collar and fits snugly below your ankle, and stretches over time. The tongue is affixed only on one side; the intention is to have the user fit it comfortably over the top of their foot, although some have found the design to be needlessly complicated. The toe area of the shoe has a lot of room for your feet to rest comfortably while you’re walking, and it keeps your big and little toes from chafing against the ends of the shoe. Although many have found this shoe to be not the best for running, it is great for those who want to walk long distances, earning it a spot on our list of the best shoes that help with shin splints.

 

Pros

  • The Brooks Bedlam is an incredibly stylish shoe. The sock collar on the upper, the asymmetrical tongue, and the color scheme all add to the overall design of this product.
  • It gives you immense support when walking. It is heavier than other good running shoes for shin splints, but when used for walking, this extra weight provides extra stability, ensuring you can go walking long distances without feeling discomfort or overpronation.
  • These shoes are also incredibly comfortable, right from the toe box to the heel area, with enough room for your feet to breathe without compromising on stability and structural support.

Cons

  • These shoes can be a little over the budget for some, with a price tag of $150. These shoes do go on sale pretty often, however, and can be bought for cheaper.
  • Although the weight of the shoe means extra support for some, others prefer lighter walking shoes. If the latter is the case with you, then Brooks’ Bedlam is probably not the right fit for you.
  • Another problem with this shoe is the sizing. Many users have recommended ordering half a size up since these shoes tend to be a little smaller than their official sizes.

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b. Best Running Shoes For Shin Splints

Running is the activity most commonly attributed as the cause for shin splints; any person who runs regularly is most certainly acquainted with the strain caused by shin splints.

 

Their best bet is to invest in the best running shoes for splint pain. Whether it’s because of the strenuous ache or the inflamed swelling caused by running, shin splints are an inevitable complication all runners are confronted with.

 

While shin splints aren’t preventable, the best running shoes for shin splints help moderate the aftermath of overpronation and shock impact caused by the constant heel striking whilst running.

The following are the best running shoes for shin splints:

 

 1. Asics Gel Kayano 25

Best Running Shoes for Shin Splints

 

Asics Gel Kayano 25 Check Price on Amazon

Asics is one of the most well-known and celebrated brands in the realm of running shoes, and for a good reason. Over the years, they’ve produced a whole catalog of amazing running shoes to prevent shin splints that runners have loved worldwide, and the Gel Kayano 25 is no different. The Gel Kayano 25 is often touted as one of the best running shoes for shin splints and also the best running shoes to prevent shin splints. But while we know the latter is not true, since shin splints aren’t preventable, the Kayano 25’s do a great job at minimizing and reducing the impact that running has on your shins.

 

The Kayano’s have been part of Asics’ lineup for over two decades, and the 25’s come on the 25th anniversary of the shoe. Since the shoe has been in production for so long, Asics has made several tweaks over the years to make the shoe as comfortable and stable as possible, which is why they feel as if you’ve already run in them several times, even when you put them on for the first time. This is a tell-tale sign of a good running shoe for shin splints.

 

The 25’s are designed for shock absorption, with the gel in the heel of the shoe aiding this process. The heel of the shoe is made of Flytefoam Lyte, the aim of which is to give you a good bounce as you run so that you don’t overpronate your feet. The front of the shoe contains a Flytefoam Propel, which is intended to make the shoe more durable and flexible since it is the balls of your feet on which you land after every stride. These features alone make the Kayano 25’s one of the best running shoes to prevent shin splints.

 

Pros

  • With 25 years of technology and trial and error behind this shoe, Asics has pretty much perfected structural stability without compromising on mobility or style. The support from the sole also makes the Kayano 25’s one of the best running shoes for shin pain.
  • This shoe fits very snugly and comfortably on the user’s foot, and there is plenty of room for your toes to wiggle around in and space for your feet to breathe. Most shoes that help with shin splints tend to be overly tight, which can irritate, but such is not the case with these shoes.
  • In terms of utility, these shoes don’t hold back on anything, giving you comfort, cushioning, responsiveness, and stability, which is why they’re considered by many to be the best sneakers to prevent shin splints.

Cons

  • The only department the Gel Kayano 25’s lack in is style and colorway. Most runners prefer running shoes with vibrant colorways because they’re more visible on the road and can bring the presence of the runner to the attention of any inattentive driver. The Kayano 25’s only come in very limited colorways that aren’t very visually appealing. If you’re looking for the best running shoes for shin splints that come with a minimalistic design and colorway, however, these might be for you.
  • Another issue that some users have reported is that the tongue of the shoe slides to one side when running and must be adjusted frequently when running, which can be troublesome for most runners, especially if you’re taking part in a marathon or some such event.

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 2. Adidas Ultra Boost ST

 

Adidas Ultra Boost ST Check Price on Amazon

 

The Ultra Boost ST is often described as the older brother of the regular Ultra Boost. Adidas is known for making performance wear and good running shoes for shin splints, but they hit it out of the park with the Ultra Boost ST. The ST’s are heavier than the regular Ultra Boosts and provide more stability to the user, making them one of the best running shoes to prevent shin splints. Shoes that help with shin splints provide more cushioning and stability than regular running shoes, which is exactly what the Ultra Boost ST does.

 

Ultra Boost, of course, is famous for its Boost Foam technology, and Adidas is notorious for owning the world’s entire supply of this kind of foam essentially, but what exactly is so different about it and how does it turn a regular running shoe to one of the best sneakers for shin splints? The answer is responsiveness.

 

These shoes, as a result of their Boost Foam technology, are more responsive than any other best running shoes for shin splints out there and will feel the same at 500kms as they did at 5kms. This is especially important for running shoes to prevent shin splints since a shoe that becomes unresponsive after a while stops providing support and hence stops becoming the best running shoe for shin pain. The outsole of this shoe is made of incredibly durable rubber and won’t slip even when you’re running on icy roads. The shoe’s upper appears to be knitted, but it is incredibly tough and durable while remaining breathable, which is a good sign if you’re looking for the best running shoes for shin splints.

 

Pros

  • The Boost Foam adds incredible springiness to a shoe that is already one of the best running shoes for shin splints, adding to the overall performance of the shoe.
  • It is incredibly durable and will last you a very long time even if you run frequently.
  • The upper on this shoe is very breathable and makes the shoe a lot more comfortable, especially when running in the summer.

Cons

  • The Ultra Boost ST’s are priced between $150 to $200, which is not the kind of money many people can spare for a pair of shoes, even if they’re one of the best running shoes for shin pain.

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B. Women Vs Men

A thorough description of the best shoes for shin splints would be incomplete without a detailed overview of the gendered options available for men and women. While we may be led to believe that the difference between running shoes for men and women is merely that of color and style, the reality is that there are complex and contrasting features that separate the available options for men and women.

 

Factors such as the width of the shoe and reflectivity vary significantly between men and women. For instance, the best women’s running shoes for shin splints are altered in width to accommodate the differences in fit and stretch that primarily suit women, and the best men’s running shoes are altered to accommodate men’s tendency for overpronation and excessive wear and tear.

 

Not to mention, women have, on average, narrower, shorter, and lighter feet than men. Thus, when it comes to prohibiting and relieving a condition like shin splints, it’s important to consider options that are personalized to the intricacies of one’s gender.

 

Given below are the most favored options for best women’s running shoes for shin splints and best men’s running shoes for shin splints.

 

1. For the Best Women’s Running Shoes For Shin Splints, we recommend Hoka One One Clifton 6

Best Women’s Running Shoes For Shin Splints

 

Hoka One One Clifton 6 Check Price on Amazon

 

The Clifton has seen 6 different editions now, and over the years, Hoka has perfected their style of cushioned yet lightweight shoes that can be used for many miles at once. For the 6th edition of this shoe, which has been regarded by many reviews as one of the best women’s running shoes for shin splints, if not one of the best running shoes to prevent shin splints for both men and women, Hoka has made the upper more breathable and adaptable, which, as we have stated, is a feature common to most of the best running shoes for shin pain.

 

Clifton 6’s midsole is made up of softer EVA foam as compared to the Clifton 5, and the outsole has high-abrasion rubber on contact points, while the rest of the outsole is made of the same foam used for the midsole. Although these shoes aren’t the most responsive, they still give you a smooth, stable ride, no matter how many miles you run in them. The foam gives you a good bounce, so you do not overpronate while also keeping you steady and stable, which is why it is considered one of the best running shoes to prevent shin splints.

 

The upper unit of this shoe is made of newly designed mesh material to provide more breathability than the Clifton 5’s, along with reinforced eye stays, which makes the shoe more durable. The material on the heel of the shoe is also softer and has more give, which keeps you from having ankle pain.

Pros

  • The Clifton 6 is a highly durable shoe that will last you a very long time, even if you intend on running in it every day for dozens of miles.
  • The cushion to weight ratio is perfect for stability, which is why it is considered one of the best women’s running shoes for shin splints.

Cons

  • Priced at $130, this is not the most affordable shoe on the market.
  • Although the softness of the shoe is great for runners who have issues with shin splints, it can become a hindrance when running at higher speeds because it isn’t able to provide the necessary support needed to prevent shin splints.

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2. For the Best Men’s Running Shoes For Shin Splints, we recommend Adidas Adizero Adios 4

Best Men’s Running Shoes For Shin Splints

 

Adidas Adizero Adios 4 Check Price on Amazon

 

The Adizero Adios 4 is essentially the Adios 3 with minor tweaks. This should not worry any potential buyers since the Adios 3 is considered one of the best men’s running shoes for shin splints of all time, if not one of the best running shoes of all time. This was the shoe that professional runners wore for many years and the show in which they set their world records. The Adios 4 makes the ride a little more comfortable with small changes to the midsole and the outsole. The shoe feels slightly bigger than its predecessor while still being a little tight in the midfoot.

 

It also feels a lot lighter than the stated weight of 8 ounces. The midsole is made of Boost Foam material, the same one used in the Ultra Boost ST, which is another contender for the best men’s running shoes shin splints. The toe box is slightly less curved than the Adios 3, which can help with overpronation and also allows you to generate more power and go faster. The upper on this shoe is made up of slightly thicker, breathable mesh than what was on the Adios 3. This means you get more durability with the same comfort and airiness of Adios 3.

Pros

  • This is one of the most lightweight shoes available right now which is partly why it is our pick for the best men’s running shoes for shin splints.
  • The upper is durable yet breathable, which goes a long way if you want to run in these shoes for long distances.
  • These shoes are moderately priced and can often be found on sale between the $70-$90 price range.

Cons

  • The midfoot fights a little too tight for the liking of most runners, although you do begin to get used o it once you’ve run in these shoes a few times.
  • The color options are very limited.

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Frequently Asked Questions

 Ques1: What type of shoes are ideal for shin splints?

Ans: If you are prone to shin splints, you need shoes that offer plenty of cushioning along with flexible soles and low heels. The quality and durability of your shoes also have a role to play as you do not want a pair that wears out quickly and puts strain on your feet. Hence, you must lookout for a pair with sturdy rubber outsoles and ones that fit comfortably straight out of the box. If you ask for our verdict, the best combination of cushioning and durability is offered by the Brooks Adrenaline GTS and Hoka One One Clifton running shoes. Some of the other options you can consider are ASICS GEL-Nimbus 23, New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v10, and Saucony Triumph 18 road running shoes.

 

 Ques2: Do compression socks help with shin splints?

Ans: Yes, compression socks can help with the symptoms of shin splints. These socks feature elasticated fabric that provides gentle support to the lower leg. The adjustable straps over the tendons and muscles also help to reduce pressure on the shin. However, compression socks alone will not cure the condition. You need to assess the injury so that you can figure out the reason that is causing you discomfort.

 

 Ques3: Do shoes affect shin splints?

Ans: Shin splints result from a new training regime or a rigorous sport that leads to small tears in the muscles of the lower leg. Wearing worn-out shoes or shoes that don’t offer proper support and cushioning can act as a trigger to shin splints. Not wearing the right fit can also lead to over-pronation, which again can be a reason for shin splints. On the other hand, wearing shoes with good cushioning can help absorb the shock from the feet hitting the surface.

 

 Ques4. Can the right shoes prevent shin splints?

Ans: Definitely Yes. Wearing the right shoes and following proper training can help you avoid shin splints. You must ensure that your shoes fit perfectly and offer ample cushioning. This will help you to reduce the stress on your shins during strenuous physical activity. In fact, if you are prone to shin splints, you must ensure that your day-to-day shoes also offer good support and cushioning. Other than that, wearing compression stockings can also prevent shin splints.

 

 Ques5. What is the best thing you can do to deal with shin splints?

Ans: If you are suffering from shin splints, some of the things that you can do to alleviate the pain are:

 

  • Give enough rest to your body as the torn muscles need time to heal.
  • Keep your legs elevated to reduce the blood flow, which will help reduce the pain.
  • You can use ice packs or cold compresses to reduce the swelling.
  • You can take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium.
  • Try using insoles or orthotics for your shoes if you often suffer from this condition.
  • You can also massage your shins with a foam roller.
  • Wait for 2 to 4 weeks before starting your regular physical activities and slowly increase the intensity. In case the pain returns, stop exercising right away. Sometimes shin splints can take 3 to 6 months to heal, so have patients and let your body recoup completely.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, the condition of shin splints is one that may serve as an obstacle to mobility, but it is one that can be easily relieved by the usage of the best shoes for shin splints.

 

Factors such as durability, breathability and stretchability, pronation control, reflectivity, shock absorbency, and quality of cushioning must be taken into consideration before the purchase of these shoes.

 

A distinction must also be made between running shoes and walking shoes, as well as women’s shoes and men’s shoes, to ensure a better and more personalized fit.