10 Expert-Approved Stability Running Shoes That Provide Ample Support

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IN THE market for a new pair of running sneakers? Don't just go buy the flashiest pair you can find. For the best experience, you might need a little more support. Stability running shoes may be your best bet.

But first, understanding the use of stability running shoes requires a basic lesson on foot mechanics—and specifically the term pronation, i.e., “rolling in or inward tilting of the arch when the foot contacts the ground,” says Scott R. Lurie, DPM, founder of Park Avenue Podiatry Associates in New York City.

As Lurie explains, while every foot pronates to some degree upon contact with the ground, the bony structure of a particular foot will dictate the level to which the foot rolls inward. “In the worst case scenario, a ‘flat foot’ or pes planovalgus foot may be the end result of these pronatory forces requiring even greater stability and control,” he says. Shoe choices are critical for such a foot type, along with possible custom orthotic supports to be fabricated for additional control.

In general, overpronators require stability shoes or insoles, “which offer a number of components to control pronatory forces and absorb shock and impact,” according to Lurie.

“These types of shoes often have wedging or what is referred to as posting in the sole of the shoe. This may take the form of various density materials placed in the sole of the shoe to control inward rolling of the arch and pitch of the heel. Additionally, variations in the length of the [back of the shoe or] counter along the inner or medial side of the heel may offer additional control.” Properly lacing your shoes can also aid in control of motion and offer much in the way of support, he adds.

Below, 10 top-notch stability running shoes to consider if you’re on the hunt to power up your training sessions.

Best Running Shoes | Best Running Shoes for Wide Feet | Best Walking Shoes | Best Shoes for Standing All Day | Best Insoles | Best Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis

Gel-Kayano 29

Asics long-running Kayano line provides plenty of support and cushion for all kinds of runners, and the brand says its a solid stability option.

The latest iteration of this standout shoe is not only the lightest Gel-Kayano to date, but it's also one of Mendeszoon's favorites. "This shoe provides high cushioning and stability along with optimal shock absorption and arch support," he says.

New to the 29 are two stability-forward features: gender-specific 3D-Space Construction units under the heel and forefoot to cut down weight and a Dynamic Duomax support system to reduce inward rolling during your stride.

What do buyers say? "Looks great and the fit is perfect. I have flat feet and the support feels excellent," said one reviewer on the ASICS site.

Read more: Best Running Shoes

Cloudstratus

The Cloudstratus from On is a runner’s dream. Excellent cushioning (the Helion foam is springy to feel like you’re walking on, well, you know) and a lightweight build, these sneakers provide excellent stability while you run. The ultra-cushioned soles are particularly great for soft landings and powerful take-offs.

We like that the streamlined modern design is casual enough for everyday wear, both while walking to work or running after. They’re also available in a handful of modern colors, from flat black to the Lake/Flare colorway seen above. At $170, they’re on par with most of On’s running shoes and, by ordering directly through On-Running.com, you get free shipping and free returns should you need to swap sizes.

What do buyers say? "These shoes are very lightweight yet extremely comfortable. They have wonderful cushioning, and they are wider than many of the other shoes I've tried,” said one On-Running.com reviewer.

Read more: Best On Running Shoes

Adrenaline GTS 22

The latest version of the Brooks Adrenaline, the GTS 22, has received some massive upgrades to the midsole and upper. Brooks' GuideRail technology and Segmented Crash Pad offer stability and maximum protection while minimizing excessive inward or outward rolling, too.

Mendeszoon appreciates that these sneakers provide “amazing support and a smooth, cushioned transitional ride.” They’re available in a slew of colors and medium and wide widths, and we especially like the GuideRails technology to stave off unnecessary excess movement while you run. The cloud-like DNA Loft cushioning is also extra appreciated on long runs.

What do buyers say? "The 22 is light, with excellent support which is a hallmark of the Adrenaline GTS," said one reviewer on brooksrunning.com.

Read more: Best Walking Shoes

Solarglide 6

Expect solid energy return thanks to Adidas' Boost midsole, top-notch comfort, and a supportive knit upper to help you better your best on the track or pounding pavement through your ‘hood. Even better on the stability front, the Linear Energy Push (LEP) 2.0 system increases midsole stability for extra responsiveness and less flex in the forefoot. We also dig that this shoe's upper is composed of a high-performance yarn made from at least 50 percent Parley Ocean Plastic, a type of upcycled plastic waste (the other 50 percent is recycled polyester).

Read more: Best Shoes for Standing All Day

Triumph 20

Mendeszoon likes that these sneakers provide “tremendous comfort and protective support.” We dig that they spotlight an ultra-plush bed of PWRRUN+ cushioning for a springy feel. A top sole also gives you an extra layer of long-lasting comfort and the brand’s FORMFIT tech makes for superb molding to the shape of your feet.

What do buyers say? "I used these shoes for all types of runs with the exception of racing. The Triumph 20s are absolutely amazing. Incredible comfort and durability," said one reviewer on the Saucony site.

Read more: Best Insoles

UA HOVR™ Mega 3 Clone

If you’re looking for a durable running shoe that reduces the impact absorbed by your feet, fuels ‘em with energy and helps you launch forward, you can’t go wrong with this Under Armour model. The UA Clone technology wraps around your foot for a glove-like fit, which not only helps keep your feet centered while you run, but also maximizes the wonderfully responsive UA HOVR cushioning. Even better, the resultant better energy return also should translate to you logging faster miles whether casually training or on race day. For something at a lower price point, try Under Armour’s HOVR Guardian 3 ($72).

Read more: Best Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis

Provision 7

Choose from four colorways for this supportive sneaker that has standout specs ranging from a newly refined medial GuideRail that encourages natural foot placement when necessary and a molded heel cup to Altra Ego foam cushioning and a simplified lacing system. FootShape comfort rounds out the deal, making for a design that’s tailored to biological differences in men’s feet.

What do buyers say? "Loved it since even though my calves hurt like mad getting used to run with ball of feet first. Now. Will never go back to shoes with a drop," said one reviewer on altrarunning.com.

Read more: Best Running Shoes for Wide Feet

Atom

If you’re a casual runner looking for extra focus on comfort and foot health, KURU is a footwear brand well worth adding to your radar. We particularly like that this athletic sneaker features a design to ensure optimal pressure distribution from your heel to your forefoot, making it superb for long walks, too. So-called KURUSole technology also supports you while you run, flexing to cradle your heel in optimal comfort with every stride. KURU’s QUANTUM (great for those who need a wider toe box) and the FLUX (the most lightweight of this trio) have the same soles and are also both great running and walking options.

What do buyers say? "Love them. Super comfortable and support is great right out of the box," said one KURU buyer.

Read more: Best Recovery Shoes

Arahi 6

HOKA has really been having their moment the past few years, and the Arahi 6 is one of the brand's highlights. A durable and flexible curved rubber outsole provides durable traction and grip, letting you move confidently through both dry and wet conditions.

The Arahi 6 emphasizes support and stability with a low-profile cushion bed that keeps your foot closer to the ground, and plenty of stability thanks to their J-Frame technology to help “prevent excessive inward roll, or over-pronation, without overcorrecting your gait.” Mendeszoon is a fan of these maximalist shoes thanks to “a tremendous amount of cushioning in addition to support and control,” he says. Wide widths are also available.

This shoe boats a seal of approval from the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance, meaning a committee of discerning podiatrists tested them and ruled that the design promotes good foot health.

One downside: they may not be suitable for those with high arches, as the midsole is on the tighter side.

What do buyers say? "I suffer from overpronation, which causes knee pain. I chose the Arahi 6 because of its stability profile. After 150+ miles of daily walking, I am no longer having knee discomfort, and I am pleased that I do not find any crushing of the instep sidewall of the sole," said one HOKA reviewer.

Read more: Best HOKA Running Shoes

React Infinity 3

Nike’s Reach Infinity 3 remain one of its best, most time-tested shoes. Technically built for road running, they offer excellent cushioning that’s both soft and supportive for feet that need a little extra TLC. It’s a design that’s purpose-built for brisk morning runs or jogs, 5Ks, and everything in between. Everything that makes this a solid running shoe is also why it’s our pick for the best Nike shoe for walking, too.

What do buyers say? Some buyers recommend sizing up a half size.

Read more: Best Nike Shoes

How to Choose the Right Stability Running Shoe (for You)

Arch support: Look for a shoe that provides adequate arch support to prevent overpronation. This is especially important for runners with flat feet.

Cushioning: A stability shoe should have ample cushioning to absorb shock and reduce the impact of running on your joints. But make sure the cushioning isn't too soft, either, as this can take away from stability and energy-return.

Sole: The sole of a stability shoe should be slightly stiffer than a standard neutral running shoe to help correct for pronation. However, it shouldn't be so stiff that it limits the foot's natural movement in any way. As with cushioning, striking a balance with stiffness is key.

Fit: Look for a shoe that fits snugly around the midfoot and heel, but still allows for some movement in the toes. This will help keep your foot stable during your run.

The heel counter is the area of the shoe that surrounds your heel. In a stability shoe, you'll want it to be firm and sturdy to keep your foot from rolling inward or outward during your stride.

“If wearing insoles or orthotics make sure to remove shoe insoles so that the orthotics fit comfortably in the shoes," says Mendeszoon.

Weight: Stability runners tend to be slightly heavier than their neutral counterparts, but running is the name of the game, so you don't want them to be too bulky, either. Look for a shoe that strikes a balance between stability and agility.

Brand reputation: Research the brand's reputation and look for reviews from other runners to ensure the shoe is durable and will hold up over time.

But avoid getting attached to a shoe based on just the brand. “Do not buy the shoes based on one brand, but try different brands and change shoes periodically,” says Mendeszoon.

When shopping online, check the site's return policies to make sure you can exchange or return the sneakers if you have any issues.

How Your Stability Running Shoes Should Feel

Some key features to look for when buying stability running sneakers? “It is important that a stability shoe fits comfortably, is relatively appealing to the customer and is at a reasonable price point. Ensure that the stability shoes fit in appropriate width,” says foot and ankle surgeon/podiatrist Mark J. Mendeszoon, FACFAS, FACPM, a partner at Precision Orthopaedic Specialties Inc in Chardon, Ohio and the owner of Achilles Running Shop in Willoughby, Ohio and Erie, Pennsylvania. “Make sure that the midsole is not only firm to control pronation but also comfortable to walk in without causing pressure points, calluses or sores.

Lastly, says Mendeszoon, check that the back of the shoe (the counter) has ample room for your heel and that the Achilles notch is fitting comfortably along the Achilles tendon. “The counter is typically a bit firmer than the front of the shoe as it is designed to slow down the heel from going side to side which can reduce the amount of pronation for the foot,” he says.

Heel-to-toe 'Drop'

Heel to toe drop is a recent term that has gained momentum over the last decade. This term represents the measurement of cushioning from the heel to the forefoot. Since the early 1970’s the construction of the running shoe changed dramatically as shoes were constructed with blown rubber and thick heels. Prior to this, most shoes were completely flat with no heel drop (Converse Chuck Taylors, PF Flyers). Traditionally the most common running shoe has about a 12 mm drop off and within the last decade shoes have gone to the zero drop (0 mm). Typically the greater the heel drop, those runners have more of a heel strike or mid foot strike whereas the lower drop shoes promote mid foot to forefoot strike. Thus neutral shoes, racing flats and performance shoes have a low heel-to drop if not a zero mm drop. Support, stability and motion control will have the larger drop (12 mm).

Why You Can Trust Us

At Men's Health, we take great pride in providing our readers with reliable and trustworthy product recommendations. We believe that our readers deserve the best, which is why we always make sure to conduct thorough research and testing before making any recommendations. For this story, we spent hours researching online and interviewing podiatrists Dr. Scott Lurie and Dr. Mark Mendeszoon. Our writers and editors are also experts in their own right, using their informed opinions to select products and ensuring that our content is of the highest quality.

Our product recommendations are purely editorial, and while we may receive free products to test and review, we only recommend the products we are most impressed by. We never let retailers or public relations contacts dictate our content or product coverage. Which is why you can trust us to provide you with reliable and unbiased product recommendations.

How We Selected

For the past two years, we consulted with Men's Health's Fitness editors and writers on the top stability running shoes for men. Experts including our fitness director Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S. and fitness editor Brett Williams, NASM, put countless men's running shoes through the wringer to evaluate their stability, fit, and energy-return. We also considered price point, as some stability running shoes provide a better overall value than others.

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