12 Best Stability Running Shoes For Overpronation Or Extra Support In 2023, Per A Podiatrist

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You know when you're having a really good run, and you feel like you could go on forever? There's nothing better than a runner's high...until the next day. If you find yourself unable to move, it could be a classic case of fatigue, and a sign it's time to invest in some stability running shoes.

Stability running shoes offer extra cushioning and support that can minimize pain after runs, particularly in your legs and lower back. "A great pair has a shock-absorbing heel, a stable and inflexible mid-portion (in other words, you shouldn't be able to bend the shoe from heel to toe), and a slightly flexible front portion with a 10-millimeter heel-to-toe drop," says Mohammad Rimawi, MD, a podiatrist at Manhattan Foot Specialists. "A lot of patients have pain in the ball of the feet. [The 10 millimeter heel-to-toe drop] will alleviate symptoms in the front of the feet," Dr. Rimawi says.

Opting for a sneaker with all of those features isn't completely fool-proof, though. "Our feet are inherently unique, so finding [a] combination that works best for us sometimes takes trial and error," Dr. Rimawi says.

Lucky for you, Women's Health rounded up some of the best stability running shoe options out there. See the 12 best stability running shoes, per reviews and foot expert Dr. Rimawi, below.

Ghost 14 Women's Neutral Running Shoe

Dr. Rimawi recommends the Brooks Ghost because they meet all of his criteria in a perfect stability running shoe. The Ghost has a 12-millimeter midsole drop and loft cushioning technology that supports and molds to the foot. Back pain, no more!

Rave Review: "I bought these shoes after getting advice from a close friend who is a long distance runner. After my first run, [I had] absolutely no hip pain. I've been running two miles a day for a couple of weeks now, and no pain."

Bondi 8

You probably don't need to be reminded that Hoka is a great shoe brand, but even Dr. Rimawi agrees the Bondi 8 style is ideal for its rocker-like arch—which takes all of the weight off the foot. This can help you run more miles before you feel fatigued.

Rave Review: "They are very comfy and supportive! Feels like I'm walking on a cloud!!"

Fresh Foam X 1080 V12

The New Balance Fresh Foam shoes are versatile, cushy, and flexible. These are a particularly great option for those looking for stylish, supportive shoes to actually run in because they're also lightweight.

Expert Review: "I have them on my feet right now. I recommend [this shoe] to patients because the mid portion is really robust, so if we want to protect the arch from collapsing, this is a good shoe to do so." —Dr. Rimawi

Gel-Kayano 28

Asics knows that if something isn't broken, you don't fix it. Their Gel-Kayano sneakers are recommended by Dr. Rimawi. The shoes, made with gel cushioning in the midsole, offer a fitted feel without uncomfortably squeezing your feet.

Rave Review: "These shoes felt like wearing clouds from day one. No break-in required! Fantastic shoe for people that need cushion and a wider toe. Perfect for people with bunion issues."

Wave Rider 26 Running Shoe

You won't need inserts with the Mizuno Wave Riders, since they have a memory foam base that offers stability and comfort for a customized, comfy feel. They're also made with soft, breathable mesh in the upper that stretches with your foot.

Rave Review: "These are it, friends. They fit like a glove. The support and cushion is incredible. My feet feel so much better, and even my lower back can tell the difference. If you walk every day, do yourself the favor and invest in these. I couldn’t love them any more."

Nike Air Zoom Structure 24

The Structure 24 is one of Nike's best stability running shoes. It's designed with a crash pad under the heel for a better heel-to-toe transition while running. Although it only has an eight-millimeter heel-to-toe drop, it makes up for it with its additional cushioning and extra features, like an airy and breathable upper.

Rave Review: "These runners are very comfortable. I'm very flat-footed, so a stability shoe is important to me and I've used Zoom Structure's in the past. I haven't experienced any blisters yet, either, which is unusual for me when initially wearing new runners. Quite light, too, compared to my other runners."

Cloudrunner

On Running's Cloudrunners don't quite hit Dr. Rimawi's recommended 10 millimeter heel-to-toe drop, but they are beloved stability running shoes by runners who've used them, especially beginners. The sneakers are plush, super lightweight, and designed with a bottom that cradles the foot.

Rave Review: "These shoes are perhaps the best shoes in the On Cloud collection. They have a good stability system in the medial section of the shoes, and balance cushioning so that the heel does not sink. The rocker for quick start is not very aggressive."

Boston 11 Running Shoes

If you're looking for a stable running shoe that doesn't look so sporty, these Adidas Boston 11 running shoes are a solid option. Not only are they nice to look at, but they're also designed to limit energy loss under the feet, making them ideal for mid-to-long distance running and races.

Rave Review: "Great high mileage shoes that fit perfectly in my shoe rotation. The shoes are much lighter than they look and provide solid, stable cushioning."

CXT-1 Trainer

If you're not really a runner, but still want a shoe that can support you on the days you do decide to run, the CXT-1 trainer is a great pick. These will hug your feet and deliver all the stability you need–whether you're doing sprints or transitioning into another workout, like lifting weights.

Rave Review: "Compared to other trainers I've had, they offer more support, more comfort, more stability, and are perfect for all the movements we do. Great for lifting, box jumps, rope climbs, and even for short-distance running."

Pegasus 39 Running Shoes

The Nike Pegasus 40's are a classic for veteran runners. They offer a springy ride with extra support near the heels and toes, and more energy return than other options on this list. More energy return means you can run further and faster with less effort than you're used to, making it ideal for people who want to set a new PR.

Rave Review: "These shoes are incredibly comfortable, with a well-cushioned sole that feels like I'm running on clouds. They also have a snug fit that hugs my feet, providing great support without feeling too tight."

GT-1000 11 Nagino

Asics knows how to do stability footwear. The GT-1000 11 Nagino has a slightly shorter heel-to-toe drop than Dr. Rimawi recommends at eight millimeters, but they're a great option for runners with overpronation because of the shoe's specially angled midsole.

Rave Review: "I have several running shoes, but these are my favorite! I run an average of 10+ miles per week (nothing super extensive), but I find these don’t cause any blisters or pain. Very comfortable with good support and not heavy."

Cloudsurfer

On Running's Cloudsurfers are great for everyday stability. Whether you're on your feet all day or just looking for some super comfy shoes—these will feel like clouds (pun intended) on your feet. They're designed with proprietary cushioning that provides a seamless weight transfer from heel to toe that results in less tired feet.

Rave Review: "After putting about 200 miles on the shoe, the soles are still in good shape and the seams are still solid. These shoes are meant for the streets. However, I did take them to the trail and was very surprised with the performance. I ran ~15 total miles on a sand trail with the Cloudsurfers and did not feel any instability or lack of traction."

Are stability running shoes worth it?

Stability shoes are designed to offer more support to not only your feet, but your entire body. "Something that happens in the foot can go all the way up to the lower back," says Dr. Rimawi. What you wear on your feet can often have a significant impact on the way you walk, and thus, on your entire body.

A stability running shoe works to absorb shock and provide a more durable base for your feet. When starting a running regimen, replacing shoes is the first thing Dr. Rimawi recommends to his patients. "It is that important," he tells Women's Health. "We really don't care [enough] about proper footwear, but as you progress, you understand the importance of how bad improper shoes can be on the body."

Who needs to wear stability running shoes?

Everyone can benefit from stability running shoes, but there are a few people it can particularly help. People with flat feet, overpronation, plantar fasciitis, or other foot ailments should definitely invest in a solid pair of stability shoes.

A stable, supportive shoe base is the first step (pun intended!) in providing your feet with adequate support, especially around the arches, thus alleviating pain caused by these foot ailments.

Can I add insoles or orthotics to stability shoes?

Dr. Rimawi says it can never hurt to add insoles or orthotics into stability footwear. "Feet are unique and shoes are generic," he says.

In other words, most shoes offer solutions to very standard foot problems–but they are not a catch-all. Any insole, particularly custom-made insoles, would make up for any deficiencies in a factory-made shoe.

How Our Team Chose The Best Stability Running Shoes

For the past month, Women’s Health editors, including commerce editor Jasmine Gomez and editorial assistant Olivia Evans, have been researching the bestselling, most popular, and top-rated stability running shoes. Our team consulted Mohammad Rimawi, MD, a podiatrist at Manhattan Foot Specialists.

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