9 Best Running Shoes for Shin Splints in 2021 with Buying Guide - Top information advice and running equipment reviews from The Glo Run

Have you ever suffered from shin splints, and you could not go out to run anymore? One sure way to avoid such occurrences is by using the best running shoes for shin splints.

Shin splints refer to a lower foot pain that occurs along the inner edge of the tibia. This pain is common among many runners. Unfortunately, it cuts short the joy of physical exercises that many runners enjoy.

This article will discuss the best running shoes for shin splints that you can use to avoid this situation.

Best Running Shoes Comparison Table

Best Running Shoes for Shin Splints Product Reviews

HOKA ONE ONE Clifton 7 – My Top Pick

HOKA ONE ONE Clifton 7 is among the most reliable running shoes for shin splints among runners. The shoe has received praise from testers for its comfort.

This shoe appears to have taken runners back to the roots, to the kind of shoe that runners were fond of. It comes with several updates that include:

Enhanced breathability
A heel pull tab
A gusseted tongue
Extra stability
More snug fit
A wider toe box

The midsole hasn’t changed a lot. This shoe still features Hoka’s signature full-compression EVA that gives the shoe great cushioning.

Just like Clifton 6, Clifton 7 also features the Meta-Rocker technology. Combined with the 5mm heel drop, these two make the shoe great for midfoot and forefoot striking.

The lower drop is also critical in ensuring a smooth transition from heel to toe. The Clifton 7 is also quite soft and has awesome shock absorption.

I also noticed a considerable amount of bounce in this shoe. I particularly found this bounce during my speed runs.

The flexibility of the midsole, however, limits the shoe from producing a high-energy bounce. Depending on a runner’s preference, this can be either a plus or a minus.

The Clifton 7 features an open engineered sandwich mesh upper. The material makes the upper of the shoe more breathable and lightweight.

Updated from its predecessor Clifton 6, 3D bands have replaced the earlier heavier overlays. The update has resulted in more adaptive support.

What’s more, you will love the fact that this shoe is true to size and features a roomy toe box. Your toes will have the freedom to splay naturally as your make your runs. It is also ideal for flat foot runners.

The shoe also features a snug, cushioned heel collar that secures your ankle and keeps it free from blisters.

The cushioning of Clifton 7 is soft enough even for calloused feet. At the same time, it is strong enough to give you a supportive ride.

Despite the cushy feel, the Clifton women’s running shoe and the men’s running shoes are lightweight compared to earlier models.

Lastly, I can’t fail to talk about the design or aesthetics. I found Clifton 7 more aesthetically pleasing than Clifton 6. It comes in an eye-catching, sleek design.

ASICS Gel-Nimbus 22 – Best for Marathoners

Asics Gel-Nimbus offers your feet unmatched flexibility, support, and comfort.

These Asics shoes are a great option for distance runners or those who have experienced shin pain. They are also ideal for those who spend so much time on their feet.

They feature a GEL cushioning system in their rearfoot and forefoot. The Gel-cushioning comes in handy in offering shock absorption and comfort. It also helps greatly in ensuring a balance between bounce back and weight.

They also feature a FlyteFoam Midsole Technology that helps in enhancing comfort for many miles of running. The shoes also have a heel counter to ensure your heels are comfortably supported.

The other feature that distinguishes the Asics Gel-Nimbus is its Impact Guidance System (IGS) Technology. This technology is very helpful in improving a runner’s natural gait. If you are dealing with shin splint, this will greatly come in handy.

The Asics Gel-Nimbus also features a fluid fit upper system that offers a great blend of minimalism and stability. The upper part is of synthetic materials that help to offer support and increase lockdown.

The upper also features mesh panels that help move the hot air up and out of the shoes.

You will also love these shoes since they come in a wide variety of unique colors and designs.

The Asics Gel-Nimbus is ideal if you are looking for extra support and stability. They will protect your shins against hard surfaces without adding any extra weight to you.

Brooks Glycerin 18 – Best for Maximum Comfort

Brooks Glycerin 18 shoes are ideal for shin splint sufferers or lower back pain.

One outstanding feature of these shoes is that they offer comfort in excess. If you do not mind about too much cushioning, these shoes will make a great option.

The Brooks Glycerin shoes for shin splints come with a midsole that features an ample DNA LOFT cushioning. As such, they are ideal for use on sidewalks or any other rugged running surface.

This feature produces an immediate springing effect once you put your weight on the Brooks shoes. Throughout your entire gait, you will always feel your feet sinking into the midsole.

The upper part of the Brooks Glycerin shoes also comes in a plush fit design that can accommodate all feet sizes and shapes. Again, this upper part uses stretch mesh materials that cause it to be lightweight and breathable.

Thanks to these features, the Brooks Glycerin shoes are ideal for long-distance runners. They are also good for activities such as cross-training.

The only challenge that you may find with the Brooks Glycerin running shoes is that they are relatively heavier. However, many runners still find the extra weight worth it.

If you are looking for running shoes for shin, the Brooks Glycerin will be your best choice. They are also the best option if you are looking for ultimate comfort.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 16 – Best for Impact Absorption

Are you a neural road runner ready to spare some bucks on a good running shoe? The Mizuno Wave Inspire 16 would be your best option.

It will offer you both protection and cushion. Although it may appear like a minimalistic shoe, it comes with an ultra-modern technology that enhances that comfy feeling.

The Mizuna Wave Inspire 16 also comes in a variety of colors and designs. You are, therefore, at liberty to choose any color and design of your choice.

What distinguishes this shin splint shoe is the midsole. It features the U4ic technology that absorbs the impact of every step you take without using heavy and blocky materials.

This shoe design is that of a stability trainer, although the feel is that of a minimalistic trainer. Its X10 durable sole exerts some extra spring in your steps. Moreover, it helps to enhance the durability of your shoe.

The shoe also has a blend of a mesh upper and synthetic that allows hot air to flow out of the shoe. It is also lightweight, and it easily conforms to the shape of your foot irrespective of your foot type.

Mizuna Wave Inspire is a shoe that will offer you stability without looking blocky. The midsole is very helpful in protecting your skin and joints against harsh surfaces.

Adidas Adizero Adios 4 – Best Lightweight and Stable

Adidas Adizero Adios 4 also features in our list of the best running shoes for shin splints. This shoe design qualifies it as a minimalistic trainer.

If you suffer from leg pain each time you are doing your running, this may be your best remedy. They come as a lightweight that has an easy frame coupled with several support features.

This best running shoe for shin splints is proof of a lightweight weight shoe that is also stable and comfortable. These running shoes weigh only 8 ounces, making them among the lightest in our review.

This stability shoe features a continental outsole that will offer you great energy feedback and traction on slippery surfaces.

The design works quite well for long-distance runners. The shoe also features a 10mm drop that does great work in protecting your heel. The upper part also features lightweight materials that comfortably hug your foot.

The mesh upper with synthetic blend works to offer support and allow hot air to flow out of your foot. As such, your feet remain cool throughout your running.

The wide toe box allows your toes to spread freely to ensure you have a stable and a natural form. This feature is also key, for it helps to prevent shin splints.

Adidas Adizero Adios 4 is ideal if you are looking for a lightweight running shoe that offers cushion and support. It will provide you with consistent protection, support, cushion, and comfort throughout your gait.

New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v10 – Best for Wide Feet

Do you have wide feet and looking for the best running shoes for shin splints? New Balance Fresh Foam running shoes could be your best option.

These shoes are of high quality, durable, and have great cushioning. They come with a one-piece fresh foam midsole that works to offer much-needed support.

The New Balance Fresh Foam running shoes also feature a dual-density rubber outsole that helps to enhance stability. The sole is also very resistant to daily tear and wear.

With these shoes, you can run on any unforgiving terrain, and they will still protect and support your feet.

The New Balance Fresh Foam shoes feature no-sew overlays. Consequently, they offer you both a sleek fit and an incredible feel.

If you are looking for comfort, these shoes will offer you just that. They feature a synthetic and upper mesh that offers great breathability.

With these shoes, your feet will remain cool throughout your running. You will, therefore, not have to worry about comfort when the pace picks up.

This stability shoe also comes in different attractive colors. They have patterns that you are sure to love irrespective of where you use them.

The wide toe box ensures that your fingers spread freely to offer you natural stability and comfort. This feature is also crucial for those experiencing shin splint pain.

This running shoe comes in four different widths; the narrow, wide, extra-wide, and the standard. You can also get it in various sizes.

Saucony Cohesion 13 – Best Wide Frame for Stability

If you are looking for affordable running shoes, Saucony Cohesion 13 could be your best option.

Despite being relatively cheap, these shoes feature in our list of the best running shoes for shin splints.

The Saucony Cohesion will provide you with excellent support at a very friendly price.

These running shoes feature a wide toe box that allows your fingers to spread freely. This feature is crucial in ensuring that you have your natural support.

The shoes also feature a wide frame that is crucial when training on hard surfaces. The wide frame helps to relieve pressure from your legs. The wide frame is also essential in providing stability.

The outstanding feature about the Saucony Cohesion 13 is its VersaFoam cushioning midsole. The VersaFoam cushioning helps to give extra spring to your steps. Moreover, it also offers you support throughout your whole gait.

These trainers also use Grid Technology to relieve pressure from your joints. They come in lightweight and easy materials.

The synthetic and upper mesh work together to keep your feet cool. They allow hot air to pass out from your feet, as well as offering support.

These trainers also feature a highly durable rubber sole. As such, you can use them under the toughest conditions, and they will still last longer. They also offer you a neutral water-resistant.

If you are looking for running shoes for road running and cross-training activities, you can opt for Cohesion 13. They will offer support to your legs without heavy materials.

Brooks Addiction 14 – Best for Pronation

Brooks Addiction 14 is among the most popular shoes, especially among runners who desire to correct pronation issues. It best serves as a daily walking shoe or a road running shoe.

The external pad of this shoe features the HPR plus material. This material has a reputation of being very durable and effectively protects the midsole from wear and tear. It is also effective in shielding the bottom part of the shoe from abrasive surfaces.

The outsole also features Flex grooves that help it to move naturally with every gait. The Flex grooves also offer you a flexible feel by ensuring the shoe bends naturally with your feet.

The other critical feature in the outsole is the Segmented Crash Pad. The segments give the shoe effective traction. Moreover, they help to isolate impact-generated shock produced by the foot strike.

For runners suffering from pronation issues, the shoe features a diagonal roll bar that helps limit pronation. The roll bar also helps in the realization of smooth transitions.

Thanks to their lightweight, comfort, and stability, the shoes are also ideal for runners suffering from shin splints.

Other critical features of this shoe include the updated engineered mesh upper, which makes the shoe very breathable. You will also find an inner sock liner inside the shoe that has a soft feel against the feet.

The Clifton 7 also allows you a customized fit through its traditional lacing. You can adjust the fit as you deem fit. The collar and the tongue are of a light fabric that feels light on your skin.

What’s more, the shoe comes in a variety of widths. You can get the normal and up to the extra-wide size, making the shoe ideal for those looking for extra toe space or orthotics.

HOKA ONE ONE Arahi 4 – Super Plush

HOKA ONE ONE Arahi 4 is another running shoe that stands out for being super plush. This max-cushioned trainer is great for recovery and long marathons on the road.

The road running shoes are ideal for runners, especially pronators who are looking for:

A modern but cushioned shoe
A lightweight running shoe
A shoe with a minimal or moderate support
A shoe with a roomy toe box
A shoe with a stable platform underfoot

The shoe is, however, not ideal for you if you are looking for:

A neutral shoe
A she that offers much support
A shoe for speed runs

Just like the Clifton 7, the Arahi 5 stands out in softness and comfort. When I tried the shoe, I got ye feeling of a spa on my feet.

The shoe will also not fail you in grip. On any standard surfaces such as concrete and asphalt, the Arahi 5 performs exemplary. However, avoid making sudden turns as it loses its grip.

I found this athletic shoe very stable. Throughout my running, I never experienced any instability at all. The wide platform of the sole gave me balance, and it was a joy running in the shoe.

I also enjoyed the smooth, consistent rides, all thanks to the Meta-Rocker design of the shoe. This design ensures that you have smooth transitions with every stride that you make.

You can bet on this shoe to last for long. It features a well-built upper that has nice welded overlays. On the outsole, the shoe features a dense rubber that can withstand wear and tear.

What’s more, the midsole is also denser compared to previous Clifton models. The density is also crucial in prolonging the shelf life of the shoe.

With this stability shoe, you can go straight for many miles on flat, hard surfaces. Keep in mind that this is more of a trainer than a race shoe. As such, it is not meant for break PRs but for use in moderate paces.

I didn’t have any issues with the breathability of this shoe. My feet remained cool and sufficiently aired throughout my walk. However, I feel that the Clifton models have wider spaced venting holes than Arahi 5.

The shoes also have a roomy toe box for your toes to splay naturally. However, I found the fit a bit too wide after using the shoe severally. Also, I also felt quite sloppy, especially when taking turns.

Buyer’s Guide

We have reviewed for you some of the best running shoes for shin splints. However, you need to know what to look for before you buy one.

The best shoes for running splints come with different features and sizes. Moreover, there are other crucial considerations that you need to make.

Some of these include the fit, cushioning, durability, support, among others. With the correct information, it will be easy to get the right shoe for your shin splints.

Here are some of the crucial factors to consider:

Cushioning

Cushioning is a critical factor when choosing a running shoe for shin splints. It is impossible to run comfortably without a proper cushioning.

Moreover, if you suffer from shin pain, you require a shoe that provides plenty of cushioning. Keenly check the cushioning system of the shoe before buying it. Make sure that it is comfortable and that it can support both your weight and running style.

Good cushion helps to absorb shock that results from the impact your foot makes on each step.

Support

The shoe you choose for running shin splits should offer you excellent support. Support is critical because it is what balances your body as you run.

To have good support, you will also need to know your stride. Overpronating will cause your feet to roll inwards upon impact with the ground. This action will exert pressure on one area of the legs.

On the other hand, your weight can also fall on the outside of your feet. This occurs when your weight rolls on the outer edges of your feet, and it’s called supination.

Each of these factors can cause shin splints or injuries. Look for a shoe that offers support to rebalance your body and distribute the weight evenly.

Moreover, if you are a trail runner, look for a shoe that supports your foot and your ankle. Take time to examine the support structure of the trail shoe before buying.

Moreover, put into consideration your running style. Those who enjoy running barefoot may want a less supportive shoe.

However, heavier runners should go for a shoe that has lots of support. With this, they can be sure they will get that extra support for their ankle and feet.

Fit

Finding the right fit is as crucial as finding the right cushion and support. The shoe you buy should fit you appropriately right from the box. It should also have a wide toe box to allow your fingers spread out naturally.

Also, you need to buy a shoe that will offer you a cushion in the right places of your foot. Choose a shoe that is snug fit so that it can prevent excess movement of the foot inside the shoe.

However, a fit that is too snug will not be comfortable and may even result in other problems.

Moreover, look for a shoe whose lacing design wraps comfortably. It should not be too loose nor too tight.

The Heel and Arch

When talking about running shoes, we refer to the shoe’s heel drop. It refers to the heel to toe drop and denotes the height difference between the shoe heel and your foot.

When choosing the best running shoes for shin splints, you should consider this factor. Shoes that have low heel drop help more in relieving pressure on your shins.

However, if you have tight calves and an aggressive heel strike, shoes with a higher drop would be the most appropriate.

Make sure you also test the shoe’s arch support. A more arch support is better, especially if you suffer from shin pain.

Durability

Durability is another critical factor to consider before buying a running shoe for shin splint. Your shoe should be able to withstand different rough terrains and weather conditions.

Choose a shoe that is of durable material and that is lightweight. Also, go for a shoe that has a sturdy rubber outsole to withstand the pounding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Running Shoes Prevent Shin Splints?

Running shoes may help prevent shin splints but not always. However, it is crucial to get the right running shoe to minimize the occurrence of such cases.

Can I get Shin Splints if I Use the Wrong Running Shoe?

Wrong shoes, not just running shoes, have the potential to cause shin splints. Wrong shoes mean they lack support and cushion, which can lead to other bad foot conditions. Wrong shoes are also a source of significant discomfort.

If I have Shin Splints, What Should I Wear When Running?

If you have shin splints, you may opt to put on a sock when running. A sock helps to reduce the pressure on the outside and adds some extra comfort. At other times, a sock can also help to relieve pain.

What Type of Shoes Are Best for Shin Splints?

All the above shoes that we have reviewed are good for shin splints. However, if you want extra comfort, Hoka One One Clifton, ASICS Nimbus, On Cloudflyer, and Mizuno Wave Inspire will offer you the best results.

Look for a shoe that has a strong outsole, a cushioned insole, and durability.

How should I run to Avoid Shin Splints?

You can avoid shin splints by using various methods. Some of these include:

– Ensure you build workout intensity gradually, avoiding a dramatic increase in your activity levels.
– Always stretch before running.
– If you are prone to shin splints, avoid running uphill.
– As much as possible, avoid running on hard surfaces.
– Wrap your legs every time before you start running

What Works Best for Shin Splints?

You can do several things to handle shin splints. However, the Rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE) method is highly recommended. This method includes:

– Resting from all the activities that cause you pain
– You place ice packs on your shins for between 10-15 minutes.
– Wear calf muscle compression socks to reduce inflammation around the shins
– Elevate your shins when icing them to reduce inflammation further.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right running shoes for shin splints is very critical. Making the wrong choice can worsen an already bad situation.

A good running shoe for shin splints should offer you comfort, cushioning, and support. It should also be a good fit and durable.

In this article, we have reviewed for you some of the best shoes for running shin splints. We have also provided you with a detailed buyer’s guide to equip you with knowledge. Make an informed choice and choose the right shoe.