Unlike neutral runners with perfect feet arch patterns, individuals with overpronation, underpronation, and extreme feet conditions need special orthotics to correct their problems. This is why most people consider getting the best running shoes for orthotics.
Besides ramping up comfort, orthotics are usually introduced in shoes to refine arch support and stability for those whose feet fall out of place. But here’s the kicker; not all running shoes can accommodate orthotics.
This means you need to put in some effort in identifying the best running shoes that impeccably. The good news is, we have already done that part for you. Still, orthotics vary in style and design and this could affect the performance of the shoe and so is the nature of exercise you do.
In this list, we are going to mention a couple of shoes that are good at working with orthotics-including some neutral varieties. Out of all of them, our champion is ASICS Men’s Gel-Fortitude 8 Running Shoes. This is because of the superior yet lightweight cushioning and durable construction.
Keep reading for some more stylish and uniquely designed orthotic-friendly shoes.
Things to Consider Before Buying Orthotic Supportive Shoes
By now you understand that not all the best running shoes can accommodate custom orthotics. That’s why you should spend a minute to consider the following factors:
Roomier Interior
There are two reasons why some shoes don’t accommodate custom orthotics. The first one is the lack of space due to non-removable insoles, while the second one is the design.
Non-removable sockliners can be a godsend if they offer the best arch support, are plush, and manage moisture. However, once they get beat up, you’ll wish they were replaceable.
Design matters a lot when choosing the best running shoes for custom orthotics. For instance, if it already looks bulky, just imagine what would become of it once you throw in a medical orthotic. It would probably feel and look heavy like boots. The bottom line is this, consider a roomier shoe with removable insoles.
Comfort
Just because you are looking to amplify comfort and arch support through custom insoles doesn’t mean the running sneaker should arrive with bony padding. It needs to be well padded on the collar and tongue. There are lightweight cushioning technologies like Gel that don’t add too much bulkiness to the shoe.
Running shoes are also defined by plushy midsoles, soft, breathable fabrics, and removable insoles.so don’t try to sacrifice comfort.
Quality Support
One of the reasons for buying orthotics is to enhance support. Supinators and overpronators cannot get the best experience from neutral shoes. This is because their higher arch or flat feet don’t fit in the shoes too well unless they get custom orthotics.
So why give a damn about getting a supportive shoe when you are going to buy an insole? Because you might delay buying it or probably displace it someday. During such times, you will wish the shoe came with its inherent support mechanism.
New Balance Women’sWomen’s 940 v4, for instance, comes with ready-made support for Overpronators. On the other hand, Saucony Men’sMen’s Echelon 7 is an example of shoes that come with a support system for those with underpronation. Basically, a shoe with built-in support might save you the hassle of investing in orthotics.
Neutral is Better
Neutral shoes have very fewer bells and whistles, which is why they are perfect candidates for orthotics. For instance, their midsole cushioning and other areas are of a single density, rather than dual or triple. Additionally, they don’t feature motion control technologies.
According to many foot doctors, it’s an overkill to add orthotics to shoes with stability and gait-enhancing technology. Why? Because the existing tech already serves the same purpose as orthotics. So if you must use custom varieties, then stick to the best neutral running shoes for orthotics like ASICS Men’sMen’s Gel-Venture 6, and Saucony Men’sMen’s Echelon 7.
Your Needs
Let’s shed light on a very important point. We still recommend getting neutral running shoes because they work fine with orthotics. However, the same shoes might not hold up well for running because of the thin construction.
The same principle applies to those who stand all day at work and need so much cushioning and support. So let your needs help you figure out what you should compromise.
Best Running Shoes for Orthotics
| Name | Price | Made of | Sole |
|---|---|---|---|
| ASICS Men's Gel-Fortitude 8 Running Shoes | Check Price | Mesh | Rubber |
| Brooks Men's, Dyad 10 Running Sneaker | Check Price | Synthetic | Rubber |
| Saucony Men's Echelon 7 Running Shoe | Check Price | Synthetic | Rubber |
| New Balance Women's 940 V4 Running Shoe | Check Price | Synthetic | Rubber |
| ASICS Men's Gel-Venture 6 Running Shoe | Check Price | Synthetic | Rubber |
| adidas Men's Solar Drive 19 Running Shoe | Check Price | Textile and Synthetic | Synthetic |
| Mizuno Women's Wave Rider 22 Running Shoe | Check Price | Textile and Synthetic | Rubber |
1. ASICS Men’s Gel-Fortitude 8 Running Shoes
If you are here for some fashionable running shoes that don’t cost an arm and a leg, you will love ASICS Men’s Gel-Fortitude 8 Running Shoes. This is a formidable workout partner that packs a boatload of cool features for both new and accomplished runners.
The shoe seems to pay a lot of attention to motion control than any other sneaker in this review. For instance, the Impact Guidance System, aka IGS a set of features that work together to promote natural foot motion for different sports. So yes, that means the tech adapts to various sports.
The tech that makes up IGS includes an external heel counter, Trusstic technology, Guidance Line technology, and DUOMAX Technology. The external heel counter minimizes ankle movement. Trusstic Technology locks your foot in place for smooth landings while Guidance Line takes care of stability. DUOMAX, on the other hand, levels out the foot plane and reduces stress.
ASICS Men’s Gel-Fortitude 8 Running Shoe comes with athletics standard comfort thanks to rearfoot and forefoot gel cushioning. On top of that, the SpevaFoam midsole absorbs impact while still giving your feet a boost that streamlines the walking and running experience.
Dominant features
- Mesh top
- Gait-enhancing Impact Guidance System
- Gel cushioning
- Trusstic System Technology
- Vertical flex grooves
- Speva midsole material
Pros
- Offers a deep, wider fit for neutral runners who might fancy custom orthotics
- Provides the best support and gait enhancement
- A stylish running sneaker
- Fully breathable
- Superb motion control
- Affordable yet massively packed with premium tech
Cons
- Almost perfect with little to no issues
ASICS Men’s Gel-Fortitude 8 Running Shoes outshines all the other models in several ways. This is a solid grab that will meet all your needs from comfort, arch support, durability, and breathability. It’s also ideal for those in need of motion control and gait enhancing assistance.
2. Brooks Men’s, Dyad 10 Running Sneaker
In a battle of comfort, Brooks Men’s Dyad 10 Running Sneaker can effortlessly whip so many high-end sneakers out of the list. This is a kick that gives you a wider room for toe movement and also allows the use of custom insoles for a better wearing experience.
And when it comes to impact absorption, the BioMoGo DNA cushioning in the midsole is impressive. It dynamically cushions each stride for total comfort. Add that to the engineered mesh top that protects the feet without announcing its presence and you have one heck of a comfy shoe.
Brooks Men’s Dyad 10 Running Sneaker also features a segmented crash pad. This is a caterpillar-like pattern on the outsole that smoothens landing, provides cushioning, and streamlines heel-to-toe transitions. The design is smashing with a breathable top so you can stay cool during your walks or workouts.
Dominant features
- Synthetic-mesh
- Omega Flex Grooves
- Segmented crash pad
- Engineered mesh upper
- BioMoGo DNA midsole
- Abrasion-resistant rubber outsole
- Padded collar and tongue
- Removable moisture-wicking sockliner
Pros
- Extremely packed with comfort-enhancing features
- Impressive energy return
- Breathable mesh top
- Roomier toe end for toe splaying
- Optimized foot flexibility
Cons
- Not as stylish as other sneakers
Brooks Men’s Dyad 10 Sneaker is an adventure-ready shoe that doesn’t sacrifice on anything-from comfort to style and durability. Its extensive comfort technology makes it one of the best shoes for neuropathy, swollen feet, and other feet problems. Its stellar ratings and customer feedback is surefire insurance that you’ll get the best from it.
3. Saucony Men’s Echelon 7 Running Shoe
Another neutral running shoe on this list is Saucony Men’s Echelon 7. Its platform is primarily designed for supinators with a wider footbed to allow splaying of toes. This roomier design accords it the ability to accept custom orthotics.
The shoe strives to offer improved performance through special materials in the midfoot and the heel. On top of that, the front sports a hardened cap that offers extra protection to the toes.
Saucony Men’s Echelon 7 is extremely breathable with uniform padding all through for superior, lightweight performance. The footbed follows the edges of the feet, offering the best comfort and arch support-especially for those with underpronation issues.
Note that this shoe has an 8mm heel drop. This design is a little easy on the feet compared to the usual 12mm drop. The only bummer though is limited color choices.
Dominant features
- Entirely synthetic
- Lace closure
- Rubber outsole
- Contoured, ultra-plush footbed
- Roomier toe box
Pros
- A stable base for reliable support
- Orthotic-friendly
- Frames to the ends of the feet for impeccable fit
- Optimum cushioning for impact absorption
- Well-ventilated for walking and running
Cons
- Limited color choices
- A slight drop in quality
Saucony Men’s Echelon 7 is an orthotic-friendly running and walking shoe that is ideal for those with tender feet problems. The midsole is pretty enlarged to fully absorb impact while the roomier end prevents toes from clumping up. Sure, the quality may be a little down, but it is worth it the trouble for those in need of superior comfort.
4. New Balance Women’s 940 V4 Running Shoe
New Balance 940 V4 Running Shoe comes from a long line of functional kicks. This one is a little wider and intentionally designed for overpronated runners with stability issues.
The shoe’s dual-density medial posts and T-Beam torsional stability keep the feet in position for stable walking. The roomier end, combined with breathable fabrics and ABSORB cushioning makes this ultra-stylish sneaker ideal for those with painful feet conditions like bunions.
New Balance Women’s 940 V4 Running Shoe is roomier enough to accommodate custom insoles. The exterior fabric is designed to promote both flexibility and breathability during intense exercises. On the downside, you only have two colors to pick from.
Dominant features
- A mix of mesh and synthetics
- Premium ABZORB midsole
- Dual-density medial posts
- 12mm heel drop
- Rubber outsole
- Designed for overpronators
- T-BEAM torsional stability tech
Pros
- Roomier toe ends
- Works well with custom orthotics
- Top-level comfort thanks to ABSORB cushioning
- A stylish design for both running and walking
- Feet stabilizing ability
- Optimally breathable
Cons
- Nothing serious apart from the limited color choices
New Balance Women’s 940 V4 Running Shoe doubles up as the best running shoe that is ideal for walking as well. Those with feet problems and need roomier toe ends will find it to be an impeccable partner. In terms of quality, the numerous 5-stars and negligible 1-3 star reviews indicate near-perfection state.
5. ASICS Men’s Gel-Venture 6 Running Shoe
Let’s take this off with ASICS Men’s Gel-Venture 6 Running Shoe because so far, this shoe has garnered amazing customer reviews. It’s mostly loved for its comfort, lightweight design, and durability.
Even from looking at it, you could tell ASICS Gel-Venture 6 is built for extreme performance. The almost-narrow design, combined with lightweight gel cushioning makes it one of the best running shoes for orthotics.
Additionally, it comes with a removable sockliner that creates room for custom medical orthotics. As an ideal running shoe, ASICS Men’s Gel-Venture 6 boasts of a trail-specific AHAR outsole that gives you both dependable traction and durability.
For convenience, this running sneaker comes with a lace design for a perfect fit and a pull tab at the heel to help you slide in easily. You can choose from over 20 color choices.
Dominant features
- Reafeet Gel cushioning
- Trail specific AHAR outsole
- Removable sockliner
- Synthetic top
- Low-top sneaker
Pros
- Exceptional durability
- Designed for lightweight performance
- Removable sockliner to allow for custom types
- Widely cherished for top-level comfort
- Breathable panels
Cons
- Current remakes have some flaws (especially the cheapest ones)
ASICS Men’s Gel-Venture 6 is a marathon-proven running sneaker that creates room for custom orthotics without getting bulkier. It is ideal for all-weather performance thanks to the abrasion-resistant outsole. Despite the few shortcomings, it still outshines many other sports shoes.
6. adidas Men’s Solar Drive 19 Running Shoe
Like Nike, Adidas too still observes the best production standards, which is why Adidas Men’s Solar Drive 19 Running Shoes is another worthy grad. This is a dependable running sneaker that boasts of an incredible Boost technology that delivers unmatched comfort standards.
Boost is also responsible for the fluid energy return that helps runners cover many miles without getting tired too fast. The top fabric is massively breathable while the interior is soft with generous padding that provides a gentle hug. On top of that, you can throw in custom orthotics without the shoe’s taking on an unpleasant bulky appeal.
The nice arrangement of different colors and a pulled ankle fabric gives Adidas a running sneaker a modern look. Not to forget, this shoe’s Solar Propulsion Rail can help to stabilize the feet for those with feet that tend to flip out of proper balance.
Dominant features
- Textile/synthetic upper
- Adiware outsole
- Breathable mesh upper
- Responsive boost midsole
- Energy Rail foot guide
- Regular fit
- Lace closure
Pros
- Compatible with custom orthotics
- Irritation-free design
- Impeccable foot guidance technology
- Responsive cushioning that adds spring to every step
- Exceptional design and quality
Cons
- Minor issues that don’t warrant mentioning
Adidas Men’s Solar Drive 19 Running Shoes remains to be one of the latest running sneakers that meet the highest standards of comfort, shock absorption, and durability. If you don’t want the disappointments that come with online purchases, this kick is the option to roll with.
7. Mizuno Women’s Wave Rider 22 Running Shoe
For women, the one elegant running shoe that can allow the use of custom orthotics is Mizuno Women’s Wave Rider 22 Running Shoe. This kick may not be able to time jump like DC’s Legends of Tomorrow’s Waverider, but it certainly can take you almost everywhere.
Designed strictly for extreme lightweight running, this shoe brings onboard a hoard of premium features. These include the Proven Cloudwave platform, U4ic midsole, articulated heel zone, and engineered stretch mesh.
The Proven Cloudwave platform and articulated heel zone promote smooth and responsive rides while the stretch mesh provides an adaptive fit. The U4ic and softly padded uppers alleviate discomfort for many hours of use.
For enhanced comfort and arch performance, Mizuno Women’s Wave Rider 22 running Shoe can allow you to use custom orthotics. On top of that, the shoe’s narrow design and daring details give a dashing outlook.
Dominant features
- 2-layered mesh upper
- Designed for responsive
- Smooth transitioning heel zone
- Soft U4ic midsole with heel center
- Proven Cloudwave Platform
- Rubber outsole
- Cloudwave cushioning
- Lace hood for hiding lace ends
Pros
- Premium Cloudwave cushioning
- Bold attractive details
- Dual mesh layer for comfort and breathability
- Designed for smooth and responsive rides
- Promotes the use of medical-grade orthotics
Cons
- This is a top-rated running shoe with no significant issues
Mizuno Women’s Wave Rider 22 is one of the best neutral running shoes for orthotics that are comfortable and lightweight even after the inclusion of inserts. It is breathable, durable, and packs quite a lot of performance-enhancing technologies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. What is a neutral running shoe?
A. A neutral running shoe is for those with a neutral arch pattern. Such a shoe comes with a few features and a lightweight design to allow the use of custom orthotics. Therefore, Overpronators and underpronators may not find neutral shoes to be supportive.
Typical features of neutral running shoes include minimal cushioning, neutral arch, curved last (sole does not get in contact with the ground all at once), and are lightweight.
Q. Which running shoes have the best cushioning?
A. The best shoes for running feature the best cushioning standards like Adidas’ Boost, Asics Gel cushioning, or a dual-density foam. Examples of such shoes include Adidas Boost Line, Asics Men’s Gel-Venture 6, Asics Gel Fortitude 8, Adidas Men’s Solar Drive 19 Running Shoe, and Brooks Dyad line.
There is another surefire way to find the comfiest sneaker in the world. And that is to look for those that address special needs. For instance, the best shoes for arthritic feet tend to have superior comfort and a support system that serial athletes and workout gurus can benefit from.
Q. Should I use orthotics in running shoes?
A. You can use orthotics in running shoes, whether you have plantar fasciitis or whether your arch is neutral. Orthotics improve impact absorption, which is useful for extreme feet conditions. On the other hand, supportive orthotics can also help stabilize and align the feet and lower body.
Q. Can I wear orthotics all the time?
A. Moderation is key in everything we do. Wear orthotics to fix stability, gait, and improve comfort. Nevertheless, you need to occasionally walk or run without one to strengthen your feet and teach them to operate independently.
Those with extremely painful problems should use orthotics continuously until they fully recover. Afterward, they can slowly begin to train their feet to work without the assistant of custom inserts.
Wrap Up
If you always wear orthotics in your running shoes, it might be challenging to operate without one. Their absence could lead to painful feet and fallen arches that not only worsen your problems but get in the way of leaving a peaceful life.
This list presents to you some of the best running shoes for orthotics that you can always count on. Most of these kicks take both medical and off the counter orthotics without becoming unnecessary bulky and overweight.
This review also consists of orthotic shoes for overpronators, underpronators, and those with a neutral arch. So try to pick a pair that meets your requirements. If there is another worthy contender we have left out, feel free to share it with our readers in the comment section below.
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