Top 10 Best Running Shoes for Heel Strikers – Your Ultimate Guide for 2024

( UPDATE 2024) What’s the ultimate way to run?

Most proponents of “good form running proper running–fast, personal injury-free, and beneficial running–means preventing heel striking and getting on the center of the foot.

Good form advocates say that getting on your mid-foot or forefoot softens the strike’s impact on your system, whereas heel striking produces tremendous shock to your pumps, Achilles, and ankles.

The Best Running Shoes 2024

Many other joggers and exercise physiologists say there is undoubtedly no conclusive data that heel striking is damaging.

A high heel-to-toe drop

Most shoe brands recognize that almost all runners instinctively hit the ground with heels.

Because of this, brands build in heel support and a lot of padding and design great heel-to-toe response systems that soften a heel striker’s impact.

A higher offset means that the rear is substantially thicker than the front. You get more cushioning upon impact, and the more comprehensive back promotes rearfoot landings.

The following shoes are excellent for joggers who are heel-strikers: they absorb great shock, extend the shoe’s life span, and ensure that even the most egregious heel-strikers can run mile after mile.

Brooks Women’s Adrenaline Gts 18

Brooks’ DNA padding technology and Caterpillar Crash Pad enable a reactive, heel-to-toe transition.

Add a soft interior and an extremely durable outsole, and you have a great shoe that seems excellent on every heel attack.

Read Next – Top Cross Training Shoes for Pronation 

Mizuno Wave Rider 21 Women’s Running Shoes

Like all Mizuno shoes using its wave dish technology, the Influx Rider is constructed with the heel striker at heart.

The wave dish, which sits within the shoe’s body, absorbs heavy getting (i.e., heel striking) by distributing the great shock over the shoe’s body. The effect? It’s an excellent shoe for even the most intense heel striker. While heel effects often decrease the useful life of any shoe, the Influx Rider is exceedingly durable:

If you are a relatively light-heeled striker runner, you can reach at least 550 kilometers in them.

Read Next – Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19 – For Comfortable and Stable Ride

Adidas Performance Men’s Energy Boost 2 M Cushioned Running Shoe

Furthermore, after devoting hundreds of thousands to researching and creating a springy midsole technology, Adidas launched its Raise technology in 2013 with the Adidas Energy Increase.

The Boos, and its eponymous shoe, have been a hit since. The Energy Increase works ideal for heel strikers, though it wasn’t designed solely for this audience.

The shoe’s for-motion decoupled heel system produces a flexible running style and an effortless heel-to-toe stride move; the torsion system uses (which is from the maker) a “wishbone molded thermoplastic product,” which allows even more independent mobility between your forward of the shoe and back again of the shoe, assisting heel strikers land easier.

More important than any technological feature, this shoe seems excellent: we know our number 1 running shoe for natural joggers in another post.

Keep reading: Top 10 Best Running Shoes for Heel Strikers.

Brooks Adrenaline Running Shoes

The bestselling running shoe for nearly every running store in the United States (and ShoeKicker’s number 1 balance shoe), the Brooks Adrenaline works amazingly well for heel strikers.

Made out of Brooks’ personal DNA padding technology and BioMoGo foam, the Adrenaline helps absorb practically every heel reach blow.

Like its natural counterpart, the Ghost, it also offers a Caterpillar Crash pad that helps increase padding and steadiness, leading to a reasonably easy heel-toe move.

The Adrenaline is not only among the finest shoes for heel strikers, but it’s also one of the better shoes available.

Read Next – Best Running Shoes for Pronation and Low Arches

Mizuno Paradox Running Shoes

Yes, we’ve two Mizuno shoes in a row. The Influx Paradox is ideal for the runner who needs more stableness than the Influx Inspire offers. Like all Mizuno influx shoes, the Pardox’s influx plate works exceptionally well for heel strikers.

But this shoe also offers an exceptionally comfortable fine mesh upper, many pillows (at least for Mizuno’s traditional company shoes), and a blown plastic for even higher mileage than the everyday Mizuno trainer. You can certainly get 600 kilometers in the Influx Paradox.

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ASICS Men’s GEL-Kayano 22 Running Shoe

 

 

Because of its famous gel padding under the heel, the Asics Gel-Kayano works for even the most extreme heel strikers, especially for those needing a lot of stability.

Along with the most recent Kayano, now version 22 is better yet. Using a re-engineered heel countertop to give a better, adaptive fit, the standard heel striker will hardly know when they’re reaching the ground.

With a superbly plush feel, Kayano is the perfect shoe for a person who wants a lot of padding and balance.

Read Next – Shoes for supination

Mizuno Women’s Wave Inspire 13 Running Shoe

The Inspire is not merely ShoeKicker’s CEO’s favorite shoe (and the shoe that helped to unveil ShoeKicker), but it is also one of the bestselling stableness shoes in the United States.

Like its sibling shoe, the Influx Rider, the Influx Inspire’s extended influx dish absorbs the impact from a heel attack, distributing it throughout the shoe. Thus, this helps decrease the jolt to your body but can also help preserve the shoe’s life span.

Read Next – Mizuno Running Shoes

Saucony Women’s Triumph ISO 2 Running Shoe

Furthermore, The most padded shoe from Saucony, the Triumph ISO, can be an incredibly plush, comfortable shoe that works for the heavy-heel striker.

Featuring EVERUN, Saucony’s padding mixture that distributes drive throughout the shoe, the Triumph helps prevent the heel from taking the impact’s brunt.

The shoe has a great fit, Saucony’s famous POWERGRID padding, and feels amazingly reactive for such a padded shoe.

The Triumph is durable; even for ambitious heel strikers, you can get 500 kilometers in this shoe. This shoe is gold if you are a supinator who lands on the heel.

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ASICS Men’s GEL-Nimbus 17 Running Shoe

Moreover, The Asics Gel-Nimbus is the original and supinator version of the Gel-Kayano. With an almost absurd amount of cushioning–you will feel like you’re using marshmallows on your feet–the Nimbus will likely be the softest shoe you will ever try.

Add the rearfoot gel that rests within the heel, and there is enough cushioning to lessen the surprise of heel striking.

This is unquestionably your shoe if you are a natural or supinator runner seeking potential cushioning and utmost softness.

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NIKE Women’s Air Zoom Vomero 12 Running Shoe

The most padded natural shoe from the extensive activities, the Nike Air Focus Vomero, is extraordinarily soft and intensely light.

Made out of Nike’s Lunarlon midsole, the Vomero brings extra cushioning within the heel using its Move Air impact safety.

Unlike many highly padded shoes, the Vomero is light (only 10 oz for the men’s size 9) and seems springy, indicating it’s ideal for both faster work and slower times.

There is no doubt that running can be a great way to work off calories and get your heart pumping, but for some people, the pain from heel strikes can be unbearable.

Luckily, several high-quality running shoes are now designed specifically for heel strikers.

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What are Heel Striker Shoes?

Heel striker shoes are designed to help runners with heel pain by providing a more even distribution of pressure on the heel.

This type of shoe is also suitable for runners who want to increase their speed and distance. H

eel striker shoes are typically made out of lightweight material and have a low-profile design.

Types of Heel Striker Shoes

The best running shoes for heel strikers are those with a low profile. This type of shoe is designed to provide stability and cushioning for the heel, which is the part of your foot closest to the ground.

Heel strikers need shoes that are lightweight and have a flexible fit, as well as good cushioning, to help them avoid injuries.

Another essential factor when selecting a runner for heel strikers is the shoe’s arch support.

These shoes should have medium arch support to feel the ground while running.

How to Choose the Right Heel Striker Shoes

When choosing the right running shoes for heel strikers, there are a few things you need to consider.

The type of runner you are, the terrain you will be running on, and the height of your heel striker shoe are all critical factors.

Here are a few tips to help you choose the right heel striker shoes:

• Start by determining your type of runner. If you are a fast and pronate runner, you should choose a shoe with a more cushioning midsole and a thicker heel. Heel strikers with less cushioning will not work as well for you.
• Next, consider the terrain you will be running on. Running on hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt can cause friction in the toe area of your shoe, which can cause blisters and soreness. This friction is not as standard on softer surfaces like grass or trails and is less likely to cause problems. If you plan on running on both characters, it is best to purchase shoes with both types of cushioning available to adjust as necessary.
• Finally, consider your height. Heel strikers designed for shorter runners (below 5’1″)will not work as well on taller runners (over 5’10”). To find the right height for your heel striker shoes, try them on and choose a pair that fits snugly but comfortably.

What to Do If You Don’t Like Your Heel Striker Shoes

If you’re one of the many runners dissatisfied with your Heel Striker shoes, don’t despair.

You can do a few things to make them more comfortable and suitable for your running style.

Here are some tips:

• Try different types of running shoes. Heel strikers are designed for a specific type of running, so if you’re not getting the support you need from them, switch to a different shoe. You may be surprised at how well other shoes work for you.
• Don’t wear your Heel Striker shoes all the time. A good rule of thumb is to alternate between wearing and not wearing them daily. This will help to keep their support properties fresh.
• Get fitted for new Heel Striker shoes. If you’ve been unhappy with your current pair, it might be worth returning to the store and getting worked for a new team. A good fit means more comfort and support while running, so don’t risk being stuck with uncomfortable shoes that could negatively affect your performance.
• Finally, speak to a podiatrist if you still have issues with your Heel Striker shoes. A podiatrist can help you to diagnose the problem and recommend a solution.

What heel drop is best for heel strikers?

There is no one answer to this question, as everyone’s needs and running styles vary.

However, some general tips to consider when choosing running shoes for heel strikers are the height of the heel and the amount of drop (the distance from the ground to the heel).

Heel strikers run with their heels elevated off the ground, putting more pressure on the ball of the foot and Achilles tendon. To accommodate these runners, shoes with a lower heel drop (the distance from the ground to the front of the shoe) are generally recommended.

Shoes with a higher heel drop (the length from the ground to the back of the shoe) can cause knee pain in some people.

Additionally, shoes with many bubbles (>3 inches) can be challenging since they create an unnatural rocking motion when you step.

To find a heel striker-friendly shoe, it’s essential to try on several different models and find one that fits comfortably.

Be sure to consider your weight and height when selecting a shoe; items that work well on someone who weighs 150 pounds may not check as well on someone who weighs 200 pounds.

Additionally, it’s essential to ensure that your toes don’t rest too far below the ground when you’re wearing the shoe.

How do I stop my heels from striking when I run?

If someone strikes their heels frequently when running, there’s a good chance you’re wearing shoes that don’t fit well.

Holding the shoe too far can cause your heel to hit the ground with more force, which can cause pain and inflammation. If the shoe is too loose, your heel will move around, leading to problems. Running shoes should be snug but not too tight and fit your foot snugly without being too constricting.

There are a few things you can do to help prevent your heels from striking the ground when you run:

• Try a different pair of running shoes. If you regularly strike your heels while running in the same pair of shoes, try switching to an extra pair that fits better. You may find that one of your old running shoes works well as a beginner’s model for some of the newer brands or running shoes on the market.
• Make sure your running shoes fit correctly. Running shoes should fit snugly but not too tightly. If they are too tight, your heel will forcefully strike the ground and may cause pain and inflammation. If they are too loose, your heel will move around in the shoe and cause problems.
• Wear compression socks. If you strike your heels frequently, wearing compression socks may help to keep them from hitting the ground. Compression socks are made of materials that force your feet and legs to stay close to one another. This can help prevent your heel from striking the ground while running.
• Use a heel cushion. A heel cushion is a thin material between your heel and the ground when running. Heel cushions can help prevent your heel from striking the environment and relieve pain and inflammation.

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Are most runners heel strikers?

Heel strikers are the majority of runners, according to current research.

And for a good reason: heel striking has been shown to lead to more injury than other running styles.

But there are a few shoes explicitly designed for heel strikers, and they can be a great way to improve your running experience.

Here are five of the best:

Adidas Adizero Adios Boost Heel Running Shoe

This shoe was designed with heel strikers in mind. It features a slightly elevated heel and plenty of support throughout the foot and ankle.

This makes it perfect for long runs or races where you want to stay on your feet as much as possible. The shoe also comes in sizes for both men and women so that you can find the perfect fit.

Nike LunarEpic Flyknit Heel Running Shoe

This is another excellent shoe explicitly designed for heel strikers. Its unique Flyknit construction makes it lightweight and flexible while providing plenty of support.

The shoe also has a low-profile design that keeps your foot closer to the ground, making it easier to take quick steps without losing balance or momentum.

ASICS GEL-Lyte III Heel Running Shoe

This is another shoe explicitly designed for heel strikers. It features a snug fit that provides support and stability throughout the foot.

And because it’s made from a durable synthetic material, it should last longer than most shoes.

Saucony Shadow Heel Running Shoe

This is another great shoe for heel strikers. Its lightweight construction makes it comfortable to wear all day long. The traction pattern on the bottom of the shoe offers excellent grip when running on uneven surfaces.

Brooks Adrenaline GTS Hiking Shoe

If you’re looking for a shoe that can double a running and hiking shoe, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS should be at the top of your list.

It features durable construction that can handle both types of use and breathable materials that keep your feet cool and comfortable during extended periods of activity.

What is the best running shoe for heel support?

Heel strikers rejoice! The best running shoe for heel support is the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 17.0.

This shoe provides superior cushioning and stability to help you avoid injuries while running.

The Energy Boost Plate in the midsole allows you to run harder and faster, while the Cushion Fit System ensures a snug fit that reduces pressure on your heels.

Read Next – Best Women’s Running Shoes for Heel Strikers Our Top Picks

Does heel striking cause shin splints?

Shin splints are a common injury for runners and can occur when the muscles in your lower leg don’t get enough time to rest and heal. Heel strikers are usually more susceptible to shin splints because their feet hit the ground with more force at the heel of their running stride.

Shin splints can also be caused by weakness or overuse in the ankle, calf, or quadriceps muscles. Suppose you’re experiencing pain or have trouble running due to shin splints.

In that case, you must consult a doctor to determine if you have a structural problem and if additional rehabilitation is necessary.

This is all for the Top 10 Best Running Shoes for Heel Strikers

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Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet & Heel Pain 2024 [Top 5 Men & Women]

Running shoes ensure a comfortable and injury-free running experience, especially for heel strikers.

As a runner, choosing the proper footwear that provides adequate support and cushioning to minimize the impact of heel strikes is essential.

In this ultimate guide, we will explore the key features to look for in running shoes for heel strikers, the best brands that offer specialized shoes, the impact of running style on shoe selection, the influence of foot types, and tips for finding the most comfortable and supportive shoes for long-distance running.

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Conclusion

If you struggle with heel strikers, then you’ll want to check out our list of the best running shoes for heel strikers.

These shoes help redistribute weight away from your heels and towards your toes, which is excellent for people with difficulty staying on their feet while running.

Whether you are a beginner runner or an experienced athlete, you’ll find a pair of shoes on this list that is perfect for you.

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What are the key features of a running shoe for heel strikers?

Choosing the right running shoe for your foot type is crucial for heel strikers. Different foot types require specific support and cushioning to address their unique needs. Understanding the importance of cushioning for heel strikers is essential as it helps absorb the impact when the heel strikes the ground.

Additionally, selecting the best heel-to-toe drop is crucial for heel strikers to maintain a balanced running form and reduce strain on the legs.

Choosing the right running shoe for your foot type

The first step in finding the best running shoe for heel strikers is identifying your foot type. Whether you have high arches, flat feet, or neutral arches, shoes are designed to cater to your specific needs.

For example, individuals with high arches require more cushioning to reduce the impact on their feet, while those with flat feet need additional support to maintain proper alignment during running.

Understanding the importance of cushioning for heel strikers

Cushioning is essential for heel strikers as it helps absorb the impact when the heel hits the ground. Look for running shoes with adequate cushioning in the heel area to provide the necessary protection and support during each stride.

How to select the best heel-to-toe drop for heel strikers

The heel-to-toe drop, measured in millimeters, determines the slope of the shoe from the heel to the forefoot. A lower drop encourages a more natural foot strike, while a higher drop can provide additional support for heel strikers. Finding the right balance that complements your running style and foot strike pattern is important.

Which brands offer the best running shoes for heel strikers?

Leading brands such as Hoka, Nike, and New Balance are known for offering top-quality running shoes tailored to the needs of heel strikers. Each brand incorporates innovative technology and design to provide the perfect fit and support for runners with different foot strike patterns and running styles.

Finding the perfect fit with Hoka running shoes

Hoka is renowned for its cushioned and responsive running shoes, making them an excellent choice for heel strikers. With features like the signature Hoka cushioning and attention to heel-to-toe drop, Hoka shoes provide the support necessary to enhance the running experience for heel strikers.

Nike’s top offerings for heel strikers

Nike offers a wide range of running shoes designed to cater to various running styles, including those of heel strikers. With a focus on cushioning and responsiveness, Nike’s running shoes are crafted to minimize the impact of heel strikes through innovative design and technology.

New Balance’s specialized running shoes for heel strikers

New Balance’s commitment to foot support and optimal cushioning makes their running shoes ideal for heel strikers. Their Fresh Foam and supportive heel counter features provide the necessary comfort and stability for a smooth, injury-free running experience.

How does running style impact the choice of running shoes for heel strikers?

Understanding your running style is essential when selecting the most suitable running shoes. The impact of heel strikes, midfoot and forefoot strike patterns, and the preference for stability, cushioned, or minimalist shoes all play a significant role in determining the proper footwear for heel strikers.

Impact of heel strike on the selection of running shoes

Heel strikers need running shoes that offer ample cushioning and support in the heel area to minimize the impact when the heel is the first part of the foot to make contact with the ground. Look for shoes with enhanced heel cushion and stability to protect your feet during each stride.

Understanding midfoot and forefoot strikes and finding the proper shoe support

For those who transition to midfoot or forefoot strike during their gait cycle, the choice of running shoes shifts towards those offering support and cushioning in the midfoot and forefoot area. Finding the right balance between flexibility and support is essential to ensure a smooth transition and optimal running experience.

Choosing between stability, cushioned, or minimalist shoes based on running style

Your running style will determine the type of shoe support you need. For heel strikers who prefer stability, shoes with added support and structure can help control excessive foot motion. On the other hand, cushioned or minimalist shoes cater to different preferences, offering varying levels of cushioning and flexibility for a customized running experience.

What are the common foot types for heel strikers, and how do they affect the choice of running shoes?

The specific characteristics of your feet, such as high arches, flat feet, or neutral arches, significantly impact the running shoes that would best suit your needs as a heel striker. Understanding your foot type and its corresponding support and cushioning requirements is crucial in finding the perfect pair of running shoes.

Finding the perfect fit for runners with high arches

Runners with high arches require shoes with extra cushioning to provide the necessary support and shock absorption. Look for running shoes with ample arch support and cushioned midsoles to accommodate the unique foot structure and minimize the risk of discomfort or injury.

Support and cushioning preferences for heel strikers with flat feet

Individuals with flat feet need running shoes with enhanced stability and motion control to compensate for the lack of a natural arch. Look for shoes with firm midsoles and supportive features to maintain proper alignment and reduce the risk of overpronation during running.

Critical considerations for heel strikers with neutral or normal arches

Runners with neutral arches need running shoes that offer a balance of cushioning and support without compromising natural foot movement. Look for shoes with moderate arch support and cushioned midsoles to accommodate neutral foot arches and provide a comfortable running experience.

How can heel strikers find the most comfortable and supportive running shoes for long-distance running?

Long-distance running requires durable and supportive running shoes that can withstand the demands of extended training sessions and races. Heel strikers must consider the outsole design, midsole composition, and overall fit of the shoes to ensure maximum comfort and performance during long-distance running.

Choosing the best outsole and lug design for long-distance comfort

The outsole of a running shoe plays a significant role in providing traction and durability, especially for trail running. Look for shoes with a versatile lug design and durable outsole material to maintain stability and control on various terrains during long-distance runs.

Understanding the role of midsole and heel counter in long-distance running shoes

The midsole of a running shoe acts as a cushioning and stability layer, absorbing the impact of each stride and providing adequate support for the feet. Look for shoes with responsive midsole materials and a supportive heel counter to protect your feet and calves during long-distance running.

Finding the right running shoe for long-distance to protect the calves and optimize performance

When selecting running shoes for long-distance running, heel strikers should prioritize comfort, support, and protection. Look for shoes with enhanced cushioning, secure heel fit, and responsive midsole technologies to minimize fatigue and optimize performance over extended distances.