We Tested Dozens of Running Shoes. These Comfy Pairs Help Beat Shin Splints

Nathan Lemin
·10 min read

Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services.  If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

Shin splints are a high barrier to running. New or returning runners will start, only for that dreaded, nagging pain in their lower legs to halt their progress. I’ve been there—calf and shin pain are the factors that most often prevent me from logging more mileage.

I asked Dylan Sykes, D.P.T. and 2:25 marathoner, about the best running shoes to prevent shin splints.

“I’d be happy to help, but you might not like my answers,” he initially responded.

When we got to the nitty-gritty, he explained: Shin splints aren’t a result of shoe choice—though that can help or hurt—but rather a result of "too much, too soon."

The intense shin pain you experience during or after running, Sykes added, is due to some weakness found in your leg, ankle, or foot. For most, this is simply a result of starting to run after a long break, or drastically increasing your running over a short time. The shin splints flare up and deliver sharp, consistent aches where your muscles and shin bone meet.

Again, running shoes alone can't prevent shin splints. But here's the good news: They can help alleviate shooting pain and discomfort. We rounded up a list of the best running shoes for those struggling with shin splints, including our best overall pick, Asics NovaBlast 4, a comfortable and versatile trainer at a great price.

Related: We Tested Dozens of Running Shoes. These Are the Best for Any Kind of Run

Best Overall Running Shoe for Shin Splints: Asics NovaBlast 4

If you only have the budget for one running shoe, I recommend the Asics NovaBlast 4 above all else. For $140, it's an approachable, high-performance cushioned shoe that's great for new and returning runners alike. The excellent FF Blast+ foam isn't overly soft or plodding either; the midsole provides a perfect blend of comfort and response. At 9.2 ounces, it's lightweight for a daily trainer, and the refined upper, while a bit less breathable than the outgoing version, is supremely comfortable and locks your foot in place. The 8mm heel-toe drop is also easy on the lower legs. Some trainers don’t offer much versatility, but the NovaBlast 4 helps you safely begin or accelerate serious running and reliably hit goals as you grow stronger.

Weight: 9.2 ounces

Heel-Toe Drop: 8mm

Pros:

  • Responsive

  • Extremely comfortable underfoot

  • Transitions smoothly during stride

  • Locked-in fit

Cons:

  • Upper not as breathable as other options on this list

$140 at Asics
$140 at Asics
$140 at Zappos
$140 at Zappos
$140 at Amazon
$140 at Amazon

Best for New Runners with Shin Splints: Brooks Ghost 16

The Brooks Ghost 16 is an improvement over an already well-loved shoe. DNA Loft v3 foam is lighter and bouncier, which takes this classic neutral running shoe to a new level. The 12mm heel-toe drop is the largest on this list, and while that isn’t for everyone, whenever I ever experience calf or lower-leg pain, I tend to gravitate toward higher drops to avoid overworking my Achilles and shins. Indeed, if you are a heavier runner or land with a lot of heel impact, the Ghost 16 is ideal. Bonus: Brooks uppers and outsoles are always reliable.

Weight: 9.5 ounces

Heel-Toe Drop: 12mm

Pros:

  • Comfortable, reliable, and long-lasting

  • Works for a huge cross section of runners

  • Available in a variety of widths and colorways

Cons:

  • High heel-toe drop not for everyone

$140 at Brooks
$140 at Brooks

Most Versatile Running Shoe for Shin Splints: New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4

The New Balance Fuel Cell Rebel v4 is a beast of a trainer because of its versatility. Speedwork? These shoes can bolt. Distance? They're mercifully comfortable. At 7.5 ounces, they're some of the lightest trainers you’ll find, yet durable and robust enough for all runs. And for folks who don’t want the higher 8mm or 10mm drop, the Rebel's 6mm drop is a sweet spot. If you want one shoe for all your training runs and races, the Rebel is a top option. That said, I noticed some heel slippage, as the counter isn't very cushioned or well-fitting.

Weight: 7.5 ounces

Heel-Toe Drop: 6mm

Pros:

  • Versatile

  • Light and fun

  • Cushioned and durable

Cons:

  • Some heel slippage

  • Heel counter not very comfortable

$140 at New Balance
$140 at New Balance
$140 at Zappos
$140 at Zappos

Best Racing Shoe for Shin Splints: Adidas Adios Boston 12

Most runners don’t need a super shoe to race well, and often the minimal, rigid construction of the top racers aren’t comfortable or practical for the average runner. So the Adidas Adios Boston 12 is great for runners seeking a capable, accessible racing shoe. More of a super trainer, the Boston 12 features Adidas’ capable EnergyRods system, which functions like a carbon plate but is fingered for more pliability and foot conformation. The cushion is comfortable enough for long runs, yet bouncy enough that it returns energy even late in the effort. At 9.2 ounces, these shoes may be slightly heavier than the top racers, but they feel vastly better. There could be a bit more structure in the heel and tongue to make the shoe fit more closely. But for $160, you save roughly $100 over high-end racing shoes.

Weight: 9.2 ounces

Heel-Toe Drop: 7mm

Pros:

  • Super-shoe features at a lower cost

  • Fun, springy ride

  • Accommodating, accessible cushion

  • Breathable upper

Cons:

  • Flimsy heel counter

  • Poor tongue and lacing system

  • Heavier than top racers

$160 at Adidas
$160 at Adidas
$160 at Amazon
$160 at Amazon

More Running Shoes That Help Alleviate Shin Splints

Related: We Tested Dozens of Running Jackets. These Are the Best for Any Kind of Weather

How We Chose the Best Running Shoes for Shin Splints

Though Sykes makes clear that shoe choice alone won’t fix your shin splints, he acknowledges it is important to find a shoe that feels comfortable. Two things to consider: Old, worn-down shoes aren’t going to help. And shoes with low heel-toe drops put a little more stress on the calf. Neither will necessarily give you shin splints, but fresh foam underfoot and a higher heel-toe drop, say 6mm or more, are a safer choice.

You’re guaranteed to run more miles if you’re healthy and feeling strong. Overdoing it as you start or get back into running is a recipe for shin splints. So, if you experience pain, back off and give your body rest. If pain persists for more than a week or two, Sykes says it might be time to consider seeing a physical therapist.

While there may not be one “right shoe,” there are plenty of wrong running shoes. Haven’t bought new running shoes since high school? It’s time for an upgrade. Trying to make sneakers or cross-trainers work? Get something designed for running.

Shoes that are excessively worn out or not engineered for running don't help you avoid injury and, in many cases, cause injury. As important as it is to steadily increase your mileage and intensity, set yourself up for success with running shoes that feel right to you—and listen to your body along the way.

Why You Should Trust Me

I run a lot, for enjoyment rather than competition. And so my running shoe needs tend to be representative of a large group of runners. I run on all types of surfaces, from mountain trail runs to road runs, and I've experienced every ailment from shin splints to plantar fasciitis due to my high arches.

Over the past year, I ran hundreds of miles in nearly 100 pairs of running shoes spanning different brands. I’ve been testing many of these shoes since early 2023, and have had the opportunity to test older and newer versions side by side in some cases.

In addition to my individual testing, I worked with a team of Men's Journal testers over a variety of reviews and gleaned insight from all types of runners, from heavier men looking for maximum support to elite, sub-four-minute milers.

Related: We Tested Every Hoka Running Shoe—These Are the Best