The 10 Best Stability Running Shoes, Tested and Trialed by Our Team

Running can be an excellent form of cardio partly because of its easy to get into a routine — a pair of the best running shoes (and a good route) is basically all you need to get going. However, your footwear can do more for your performance than acting as a simple barrier between asphalt and footprint. The best stability running shoes, for example, can help support your running gait with extra stabilizing components to help alleviate any excessive inward roll across your ankles during strides.

Naturally, not every foot strike will require a stability-minded sneaker, but for those with overpronation issues, they could enhance your experience greatly. To help you put your best foot forward, we’ve taken to the streets, trails, and tracks with dozens of popular shoe silhouettes and consulted with our in-house team of experts to compile this guide to our favorite stability running shoes available today.

The 10 Best Stability Running Shoes

• Best Stability Running Shoes Overall: Brooks Glycerin StealthFit GTS 21
• Best Stability Running Shoe for Treadmill Running: Nike InfinityRN 4
• Best Cushioned Stability Running Shoe: HOKA Gaviota 5
• Best Budget Stability Running Shoes: Asics GT-1000 12
• Best Stability Running Shoe for Long Distances: New Balance Fresh Foam X More v4
• Best Stability Running Shoe for Speedwork: Saucony Tempus
• Best Stability Running Shoe for Daily Training: HOKA Arahi 7
• Best Stability Running Shoe for Beginners: Asics Gel-Kayano 30
• Best Zero-Drop Stability Running Shoe: Altra Provision 8
• Best Stability Running Shoe for Trail Running: Brooks Cascadia 17

How We Tested and Chose the Best Stability Running Shoes

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To make our list of the best stability running shoes, we got hands-on with 50 different shoe profiles from top brands, using a multi-point methodology to rate each profile on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) to determine our top picks. Below are some of the categories and components we looked at to make our list.

Midfoot Support

Naturally, stability running shoes will feature some sense of a support system to set them apart from more neutral running shoes, with components being proprietary from brand to brand. Some sneaker silhouettes feature more utilitarian guide rails or rigid foams across the midfoot to help prevent overpronation, while others employ a different contouring along the midsole cradle where your arch sits within the shoe itself.

We made sure to highlight these components during testing, seeing how each felt across varied distances and speeds. If a stability system was more rigid or accommodating, we made note of the experience below.

Midsole Cushioning

Regardless of how supportive a stability running shoe is, it should still be comfortable when in the throes of training. This comfort relies heavily on the midsole foam. During trials, we examined the feel of each midsole, logging how bouncy, energetic, plush, or dull it was across our runs.

[Related: How Many Calories Are Burned Running a Mile?]

We also looked at where these foams could benefit athletes most across different running styles. For example, if a midsole provided a lightweight feel with an energetic snap through heel-to-toe transitions, we were inclined to recommend it for tempo runs. A softer, more plush foam that kept us cozy from start to finish could be better suited for long-distance sessions or recovery days.

Heel Structure

Your stability running shoe’s heel can also be a great source for extra support. A strong, more rigid heel cup can help cradle your ankle to prevent excessive inward or outward rolling. We looked for running sneakers featuring a sturdy heel counter that kept us in line during trials.

In addition to the heel cup structure, we also took the comfort of the heel counter and collar into question. After all, there’s no sense in running with a pair of shoes that leave your Achilles worn and weathered through excessive rubbing. We made note of how these components felt on foot, highlighting specific designs that could potentially pose a problem for some athletes.

Outsole

The outsole of your running shoe is the literal point of contact between you and the terrain, whether that be a paved road, city sidewalk, indoor treadmill, or hiking trail. To improve your stability and sense of balance, you should look for an outsole featuring a tread pattern fit for your preferred environment. For example, we’ve included specific selections for treadmill running and trail running, as these running surfaces will require a unique sense of traction that other road running shoes may not deliver.

[Related: Treadmill Safety Tips: 9 Ways to Avoid Common Treadmill Injuries]

Additionally, a wider outsole can help you step confidently through your workouts, providing a larger swath of footing to land on with each progressive stride. We made note of which stability running shoes feature such build qualities.

Best Stability Running Shoes Overall: Brooks Glycerin StealthFit GTS 21

If you’re looking for a trusted pair of stability shoes to help bolster your proper running form, the Brooks Glycerin StealthFit GTS 21s are tough to beat. While the original Glycerin 21s are a fine sneaker in their own right, this trim model combining the sockliner flat knit upper and Go-To Support motion control system is the perfect mix for athletes looking to bring their strides back to a more natural plane.

I’ve ran in plenty of Brooks silhouettes featuring the GTS system, which employs the brand’s GuideRails technology exhibited through an interior medial post and exterior post. While I tend to supinate — where your ankle rolls outward instead of inward — I still appreciate the level of support this technology provides, and I always feel as if I’m pacing naturally without feeling confined. In total, I rated the stability at 5 out of 5.

Another supporting feature to this Glycerin 21 iteration is the wider base. This simple yet effective design element can help curate a more balanced landing with each foot strike. I especially appreciated this element when making turns through my routes, or when transitioning from a packed gravel trailway onto asphalt. 

Like other Brooks sneakers, the Glycerin StealthFit GTS 21s exude comfort, which I rated at 4 out of 5. The DNA Loft v3 midsole foam creates a light, plush sensation during landings, yet still retains some rigidity for boosted support and energy return. Additionally, the StealthFit profile employs a sockliner-style flat knit upper that mimics a slip-in bootie with no present tongue.

This StealthFit trim is probably my favorite Brooks iteration over the years, as you can conveniently achieve a desired lockdown without finicking with the tongue. Plus, the flat-knit design eliminates unwanted rubbing or irritation around the ankle and heel.

However, these Brooks sneakers may not be for every stability-conscious athlete. With 10 millimeters of drop, the silhouette is more attuned to heel strikers, meaning those that land on their heel during strides. 

Studies indicate that midfoot and forefoot strikers can prefer a lower heel-to-toe drop, as these dimensions can eliminate unnecessary cushioning in the heel while also alleviating pressure on your knees and hips. (1) As such, I rated the overall ride at a conservative 3.75 out of 5.

[Related: Best Running Socks]

Best Stability Running Shoe for Treadmill Running: Nike InfinityRN 4

The best cardio machines often feature design elements that work to reduce impact. According to BarBend expert reviewer Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, “Running treadmills have cushioned decks, which can alleviate some of the joint pain associated with running outside.” That’s helpful, but it can still be wise for those with pronation issues to opt for a stability shoe. For these indoor training sessions, we recommend the Nike InfinityRN 4s.

I like these Nike sneakers for treadmill runs as opposed to on-road sessions, as the present support system isn’t as aggressive as other stability shoes I’ve run in previously. This can be beneficial for treadmill workouts, as the consistent foot strikes in a singular position can lead to overworked stabilizer muscles with more aggressive motion control elements.

I also rated the stability at 4.5 out of 5 given the wider base featured across the InfinityRN 4’s outsole. This can be great for maintaining balance throughout your running gait, especially when trying to keep pace with the moving treadmill belt underfoot. A more structured heel counter adds to the silhouette, creating a nice sense of lockdown without any errant slipping or movement during strides.

[Related: Can You Train for a Marathon On a Treadmill?]

The Nike InfinityRN 4s also feature a Flyknit upper, which offers a somewhat flexible stretch over the top of your foot for added security. However, the sizing is admittedly snug — I would recommend sizing up one half size if you desire a roomier fit. There’s a water-resistant membrane within the upper design, which can be fine for road-running scenarios in inclement weather, but can severely limit the shoe’s ventilation. I scored the InfinityRN 4’s at 3.75 out of 5 for breathability.

Additionally, this shoe’s waffle-pattern outsole proved to be plenty durable for extended wear. I’ve worn these Nikes both on-road and on-treadmill and have yet to see any wear across the tread pattern.

However, the thicker rubber along and dense ReactX foam does take the weight up to 12.5 ounces. This can make for a clunky running experience as you begin to tire, especially when trying to tackle 10 or more miles atop your favorite treadmill. I rated the weight at 3.5 out of 5 and recommend reserving these kicks for shorter daily jogs or slow recovery runs.

Best Cushioned Stability Running Shoe: HOKA Gaviota 5

If you’re looking for a road-running shoe with stability and a good sense of underfoot cushioning, the Gaviota 5s from HOKA are our top pick. This impressive silhouette uses a new H-frame support system — a redesign from the J-frame of previous iterations — to promote a better sense of stability across your midfoot while allowing your heel and forefoot to be unhindered for optimal landings and toe-offs.

While I’ve tried plenty of HOKA (formerly branded as HOKA One One) profiles in the past, this is actually the first pair of Gaviotas I’ve run in. Overall, I really enjoyed the stability at play, rating the Gaviota 5s at 4.5 out of 5 for the category. 

There’s a pronounced sense of structure along the midfoot, but I appreciate how the H-frame design allows for better ground feel at the heel and forefoot through the soft EVA foam. Plus, side-to-side movement was basically thwarted, which is always the mark of a good stability shoe for running everyday.

Speaking of the EVA foam midsole, I really appreciated the comfort underfoot that felt soft yet still structured enough for efficient transitions. Combine this technology with the brand’s signature early-stage Meta-Rocker geometry, and you have a kick that can seamlessly roll from heel to toe. I scored the ride of this sneaker at 4 out of 5, respectively.

I also appreciated the creel jacquard mesh upper that kept the top of my foot secure and well-ventilated. However, the collar around my ankle and heel proved to be a sticking point, or rather, a slipping point. Given the plush design, it was difficult to find a secure heel lockdown with a standard lacing setup. I rated the lockdown at 3.75 out of 5, and highly recommend taking advantage of the extra top eyelet for a lace lock system.

The Gaviota 5s retail for $175, which is a bit expensive for stability running shoes. On average, you can expect to pay roughly $150 for these more advanced running sneakers, so a $25 price hike may be too much for some budgets. However, if you want the best cushioning possible for your weekly miles, it’s tough to ignore this popular HOKA silhouette.

[Related: The Best Cushioned Treadmills]

Best Budget Stability Running Shoes: Asics GT-1000 12

Given the added motion control components, you can expect to pay a little more for stability running shoes than other silhouettes on the market. However, there are some budget-friendly profiles out there, such as the Asics GT-1000 12s. Coming in at $100, roughly $50 less than the average price of high-quality stability runners, these kicks can be excellent for wallet-minded athletes looking for an upgraded sense of underfoot support.

I’ve ran in previous iterations of the GT-1000 lineup and feel they’re a great introductory shoe for runners given their value — which I rated at 5 out of 5 — and stabilizing features. The proprietary LITETRUSS technology can provide ample support across the medial side of the shoe, which helps limit excessive inward roll.

Additionally, I’m always a fan of Asics sneakers featuring the brand’s signature GEL technology. The GT-1000 12s house this component in the heel, which can help alleviate unwanted stress upon impact.

[Related: The Best Treadmills for Bad Knees]

As far as cushioning is concerned, I’ve had mediocre experiences with the FLYTEFOAM midsole design. Yes, it’s comfortable and supportive, but I wouldn’t call the ride bouncy or energetic. The foam is just sort of there with no true standout features. This can be fine for beginners just finding their groove, but may be a letdown for more advanced athletes. I scored the cushioning at 3.75 out of 5.

Another point worth mentioning is the tongue makeup. This component is not gusseted, meaning the tongue is free to move around more during movement when not laced down as tightly. This can lead to multiple readjustments over the course of a workout, so I’d recommend taking the time before training to find that ideal lacing security.

Despite these callouts, I still think the GT-1000 12s can be suitable for a number of athletes needing the extra support. Think of these as a gateway sneaker — there’s not a high upfront cost, yet you can easily determine whether stability running shoes are right for your personal gait. In my eyes, that’s worth every penny.

[Related: The Best Budget Home Gym Equipment]

Best Stability Running Shoe for Long Distances: New Balance Fresh Foam X More v4

Trying to tackle extended mileage but looking for a stability shoe to carry you through those long workouts? The Fresh Foam X More v4 from New Balance can be just the ticket. Serving as a prime example of a “max-cushioned” running shoe, this sneaker features a thick chunk of the brand’s Fresh Foam X foam across the midsole which can provide a nice blend of comfort, support, and energy return that’s ready for those double-digit miles.

I’ve owned these New Balance shoes for a while and always appreciate the level of cushioning underfoot during runs. I rated the cushioning at 4.5 out of 5, too, because while you definitely feel some shock absorption during landings, the foam rebounds easily for better energy return that can carry you through the finish line (these are a popular racing shoe, too). 

Plus, the 4-millimeter drop can be more accommodating for different foot strike preferences rather than favoring heel strikes, midfoot strikes, or forefoot strikes. (1)(2)

[Related: The Best Running Warm-Up for Your Next Cardio Session]

Despite the listed 11-ounce weight, these kicks also feel light on-foot, which can be ideal for tackling longer mileage without feeling like you’re wearing cinder blocks toward the end of your route.

The Fresh Foam X More v4s also feature an engineered mesh upper. While this textile can run hot under direct sunlight, leading to my 3.75 out of 5 rating for breathability, I did enjoy the fit enough for a 4.5 out of 5 rating. The material is stretchy enough to accommodate a wide range of foot profiles, yet I still got a premium amount of structure and lockdown. The toe box, too, showcased enough room to allow for toe splaying, which can be great when trying to make toe-offs as efficient as possible.

However, I do recommend taking some time pre-run to secure your laces, as the tongue does not feature a gusseted design. This means that the component can move and slide from one side to the next during movement, which can lead to unwanted pressure or an uncomfortable fit. On my first few outings with the Fresh Foam X More v4s, I’d routinely have to stop and readjust the tongue in an effort to achieve that proper over-foot fit.

[Related: How To Build Stamina for Running]

Best Stability Running Shoe for Speedwork: Saucony Tempus

Tempo runs can be a fun way to test your merit on the road, track, or treadmill. However, quickening the pace can give room for excessive overpronation as you focus more on faster strides and less on foot placement and transitions. The Saucony Tempus, however, can be prime for these speed days by providing a lightweight profile that turns over easily while still supporting you underfoot for natural, more aligned steps.

I rated the responsiveness of these Saucony speedwork shoes at 4 out of 5, as I could easily up the tempo thanks to the energetic PWRRUN PB midsole foam. There’s plenty of energy across the design, as it compresses quickly during landings and rebounds nicely to help propel you forward. Additionally, the contoured midsole frame helped me stay cradled in the shoe, sort of how you’d expect to be locked in and secure in a racing seat in a racecar.

[Related: What the Heck Is a Tempo Run?]

The midsole technologies are definitely designed with speed in mind, and I recommend you reserve this shoe solely for those situations. While energetic and responsive, the PWRRUN PB midsole foam is a little underwhelming at slower paces, almost too rigid to enjoy. To compress the foam, you really need to put your foot on the gas (pun intended) and throw some energy into each stride. Slower jogging days, from my experience, just can’t get the component into gear.

The upper is also a standout component of this impressive Tempus profile. The mesh textile features multiple cut-outs across the toe box, which can help improve ventilation as you pick up, land, and roll through your faster running endeavors. The cut-outs also serve as a great way for the Tempus to shed weight — another common feature associated with shoes designed for speedwork. As such, I rated the breathability at 4.5 out of 5.

Finally, I enjoyed the rubber outsole design, and felt the XT-900 rubber did a fine job of keeping traction on dry terrain like concrete or asphalt. Running in wet conditions, like after a morning rain, proved to be a different story. I scored the outsole at 4 out of 5 as I was experiencing some slips and slides when pacing over shallow puddles or wet cement.

[Related: The Best Running Apps]

Best Stability Running Shoe for Daily Training: HOKA Arahi 7

Your daily trainers should be a running shoe that you can turn to with little thought — something that can help you achieve those daily step counts without too much huff or puff. The HOKA Arahi 7s are the brand’s stability-minded rendition of the Clifton lineup (one of HOKA’s most-popular silhouettes). Combining a compression-molded EVA foam with a J-frame support system, these kicks can be prime for daily mileage.

I’ve run in the Arahi 7s and their predecessors, the HOKA Arahi 6s, and do feel that this iteration is a better fit — literally. The redesigned flat-knit upper offers a snug fit without feeling too constrictive, although I’d recommend those with wide feet to opt for the available wide sizing, as there’s less stretch across the textile. 

Plus, I’m a big fan of daily trainers with convenience in mind, which is showcased in the extended heel tab for easier entry and exit. I rated the fit of the Arahi 7s at 4.5 out of 5, respectively.

[Related: How Much Cardio Is Too Much? Running Coaches Weigh In]

These HOKAs gather their stability moniker through the brand’s J-frame tech, which is a more rigid medial post that curves like the letter J around the heel for improved structure. While some may need miles to get used to the dichotomy at play between this component and the CMEVA foam midsole, I still think it’s a suitable solution for improved strides. It may be too aggressive for those with minor ankle roll, but athletes with severe overpronation will likely appreciate the more rigid framing.

I also scored the comfort at 4 out of 5 given the collar and heel structure. I enjoyed plushness at this area and didn’t notice any heel slip during my trials. However, I do see where the raised heel pull can rub some athletes the wrong way (literally), hence my less-than-perfect rating for the category.

[Related: Jogging Vs. Running — What’s the Difference and Why Does it Matter?]

Best Stability Running Shoe for Beginners: Asics Gel-Kayano 30

Novice running enthusiasts asking the question, “what is cardio?,” should look for a stability running shoe that’s comfortable enough for the growing pains of finding your stride, yet stable and supportive enough to help lessen any unwanted ankle movement during training. In our opinion, the Gel-Kayano 30s from Asics can be an excellent introductory sneaker thanks to its convenient and comfortable 4D Guidance System that gives you an adaptable arch support that gets better and refined to your footprint with each passing session.

This new Gel-Kayano iteration ditches the LITETRUSS technology found in the Asics Gel-Kayano 29, which was a more aggressive way to help prevent overpronation issues. I enjoy this adaptable approach, especially for beginners, as it allows the footbed to mold to your specific needs rather than trying to force you in a certain direction (or into a natural foot plane). For these reasons, I rated the stability at 4.5 out of 5.

The Gel-Kayano 30s are also great for novice runners thanks to the wider base. This can help create a wider landing surface, and in turn, create a better sense of balance. Anyone who’s turned a corner on asphalt at a faster-than-walking pace can attest that an underfoot slide is a quick way to ensure you never want to run again, so I appreciate that Asics broadened the base to help give those just getting their feet into running a heightened sense of confidence.

As far as style is concerned, I scored the Gel-Kayano 30s at 4 out of 5, too. There are 22 different colorways to choose from — other stability running shoes typically offer 12 hues or less — which can be ideal for those wanting to step out in a vibrant set of kicks. Plus, the reflective accents can help promote better visibility. As someone that routinely trains in the evening hours around sunset, this can be plenty helpful for ensuring on-road safety.

Finally, I like these Asics sneakers for novices as you kind of have to work to get them up to speed. The larger slab of FF BLAST PLUS ECO foam across the midsole takes some doing to get up to training paces, but really begins to show its response and cushioning once you get there. I think of this as a nice payoff that can institute a positive relationship with running — put in the work, and reap the rewards.

[Related: Treadmill Workouts for Beginners]

Best Zero-Drop Stability Running Shoe: Altra Provision 8

For athletes following the barefoot movement — wearing zero-drop sneakers to promote a more natural foot movement through runs — finding a silhouette that matches the minimalist aesthetic but still delivers stabilizing components can be tough. However, Altra, a brand synonymous with zero-drop footwear, offers the Provision 8, a minimalist sneaker with GuideRails technology to keep your strides natural and supported throughout training.

I’ve run in multiple Altra silhouettes over the years, including the Provision 8s, and always admire the ergonomic FootShape fit. This profile features a rounded, roomy outsole that better aligns with the actual shape of your foot, which can be great for wide-footed athletes. Additionally, I like how the heel counter stays snug across my Achilles, limiting heel slip as I transition through steps. I graded the Provision 8s at 4.5 out of 5 for fit.

[Related: Barefoot Strength Training]

The breathable mesh upper also gives room for plenty of air and ventilation during training, making these a great solution for spring and summer jaunts outdoors. I scored these Altra sneakers at 4 out of 5 for the upper design, too, given that there’s a bit of stretch yet not so much that it sacrifices lockdown across the top of the foot.

When it comes to the ride of these Provision 8s, I definitely felt stable and supported thanks to the GuideRails system placed across the medial side of the foot. I didn’t feel as if the tech forced me into a compromised foot plane, which can be ideal for those just getting used to stability running shoes.

However, I conservatively rated the ride at 3.7 out of 5 given that zero-drop sneakers are something you don’t seamlessly transition into. The lack of cushioning under the heel can be jarring for some, and the minimalist makeup combined with the GuideRails system does promote more of a forefoot strike upon landings. As a known heel striker, this was something I had to overcome and adapt to over multiple runs.

[Related: Why Do My Knees Hurt When I Run?]

Best Stability Running Shoe for Trail Running: Brooks Cascadia 17

Looking for some stability across your footprint for those more adventurous running workouts? The Brooks Cascadia 17s can be an excellent pick for trail running thanks to the brand’s Trail Adapt System that utilizes light underfoot cushioning, a protective plate along the medial side of your arch, and grippy outsole pods for better traction across uneven terrain.

Outside of running shoes for tempo workouts, I’d say that trail-running shoes are my favorite subcategory of running footwear, so I’ve been wise to the Cascadia lineup for a while. In testing, I appreciated the adaptable stability these shoes provide that flexes and adjusts according to the trails I’m on. You don’t experience a loss of support when, say, transitioning from a packed gravel throughway onto a rocky climb. For these reasons, I rated the stability and support at 4.5 out of 5.

[Related: Everything You Need To Know About Rucking (+ How To Get Started)]

One area I always look toward when choosing trail-running shoes is the outsole tread pattern, so I’m happy to see this Cascadia 17 fitted with a TrailTrack outsole. These deep, grippy lugs have yet to fail me when out and about, even when traversing through thick mud or leaf-covered paths. 

I scored the traction offered in these Brooks sneakers at 5 out of 5, comparing them to the all-terrain tires I have on my vehicle — enough to grip and get you going, yet not so aggressive that they become a nuisance on flatter, easier ground.

The Cascadia 17s also boast multiple TPU overlays across the knit upper, which are intended to help defend against mud and debris. Granted, the protection is appreciated, especially when tackling rougher routes up and down the mountains, but the extra materials across the upper does limit this shoe’s breathability.

I scored the Cascadia 17s at 3.75 out of 5 for the category, although I don’t necessarily hold breathability against a trail-running shoe. You can expect a compromised ventilation if it means the textile will be more durable against scuffs and scrapes.

[Related: Learn How to Run Faster (At Any Skill Level) From a Triathlete Coach]

Benefits of Stability Running Shoes

Outside of simply improving your in-training comfort, stability running shoes with extra support across your arches and ankles can provide other benefits to your workout regimens. From a more natural foot plane through your strides to more uniform wear across your tread pattern, below are some of our favorite perks associated with this specialty footwear silhouette.

More Natural Running Mechanics

Every athlete showcases some level of pronation, or the inward rolling of the ankle during heel-to-toe transitions. However, these biomechanics can stray inward further than necessary — a condition called overpronation — which can lead to potential pain and irritation across your shins, Achilles, and foot arches. (3) 

[Related: The Best Stretches to Do Before a Run]

Stability running shoes can be a means to help correct this excessive inward rolling by placing extra support across the medial, or interior, side of your foot. These components, in turn, can help you maintain a more neutral, normal stepping motion for more comfort overall.

Improved Wear Across Your Sneakers

Overpronation can not only be a pain on your lower body, but your footwear, too. The excessive inward rolling can cause uneven wear across the interior of your shoe, leading to less tread and traction along your outsole design. Additionally, this swayed fading can lead to more compressed foam along the medial side of the shoe silhouette. Once the foam is gone, it can be difficult to correct your gait.

Stability running shoes get out ahead of this potential problem by promoting the more natural stride. As you step through workouts, your midsole foam and outsole tread pattern wear more evenly, leaving you with less imbalances over time. Naturally, you’ll still need to replace your running shoes after a while — studies recommend every 500 miles — but a more even wear can help you ease toward that shelf life rather than rushing toward it. (4)

Potential Injury Prevention

Let’s get this out of the way — studies are mixed regarding the medical benefits of stability running shoes in comparison to other footwear profiles. (5) However, some reports indicate that stability sneakers can help limit the load felt across joints like your knees and ankles. (6) This load alleviation can help limit how much stress you put your lower body through in a given workout, leading to less time spent recovering from injury and more time spent enjoying your logged mileage.

[Related: Best Post-Workout Supplements]

Additionally, the extra support and comfort across your arches can help cradle this foot area for less stretch and strain. As such, stability running shoes can be a great solution for athletes that routinely deal with plantar fasciitis.

How to Tell if You Need Stability Running Shoes

Curious to see if stability running shoes are right for your footprint? Below are three different ways you can infer whether these specialty running sneakers would be a boost to your training or an unnecessary add-on.

Look At Your Daily Sneakers

A quick and simple way to determine whether stability running shoes may be right for you is by looking at a pair of sneakers you wear regularly and how the outsole has worn over time. If you notice less tread across the inner side of your foot, this could indicate overpronation, which could benefit from stability running shoes.

If your daily sneakers showcase an even wear pattern across the outsole, you likely have a neutral stride to begin with. Stability shoes may be overkill unless you prefer the added support across your arches and ankles.

Wear along the outer edge of your tread pattern indicates a more supinated stride, which is when the ankle rolls outward instead of inward. For these individuals, neutral running shoes could be an ideal solution since stability shoes are designed to correct inward roll. The added post or support across the medial side of the shoe could actually exacerbate the supination.

Wet Foot Test

Another at-home method to determine which shoes are right for your stride is the wet foot test. Simply wet the bottom of your bare foot and step onto a paper towel or piece of printer paper. Step off the paper and examine the print you just left behind, particularly along the arch of your foot.

If your footprint showcases a somewhat wide band connecting the forefoot to the heel, this indicates a normal or regular arch height. If the connecting band is thinner, your footprint exhibits a high arch. For both foot types, we recommend neutral running shoes.

If you look at the print and see flat feet with no identifiable band from the forefoot to the heel, you have low arches. For these individuals, a stability shoe with added arch support could be the best fit.

[Related: Why Do My Shins Hurt When I Run?]

Professional Gait Analysis  

If you aren’t confident enough in your own diagnosis (don’t worry, it’s fine) you can always opt for a professional gait analysis. This process can be done by your personal podiatrist, or simply at your local specialty running store. A staff member typically takes some measurements of your feet and asks you to run on a treadmill for a set period of time. They’ll examine your gait from multiple angles to determine whether you exhibit overpronation, a neutral stride, or supination.

Typically, this service is free of charge, but be sure to do your own research about what’s available in your area before going with this method.

How to Choose the Best Stability Running Shoes

As with any footwear intended for physical activity, there are a few factors worth thinking through before deciding on a pair of stability running shoes. Below are the considerations we recommend pondering when trying to narrow down your search for the sneaker that suits your foot strike best.

Level of Support

The level of stability experienced in each shoe can vary from brand to brand, and some athletes may prefer more or less support across their arches and ankles. Some silhouettes utilize more rigid guide rails and medial posts, while other profiles create stability through contoured foams at different densities across the midsole. There are no true standouts when comparing stability methods, although many brands are now taking the foam-centric method to better appeal to more athletes.

Think through your previous experience with running shoes and how your arches and shins felt post-training. It can also be wise to look at your arch type, either through a professional gait analysis or other means. This can be a good indication as to how much underfoot support you need to help with overpronation.

Midsole Cushioning

While stability running shoes have their focus on, well, stability, that’s no excuse for an uncomfortable underfoot experience. Look for running shoes featuring a level of midsole cushioning that appeals to your preferences best, whether that be a more plush sensation for cozy jogs or a more energetic midsole design for quick, high-intensity sprints.

[Related: How to Prevent Shin Splints From a Treadmill]

Outsole Build

When looking at a stability shoe’s outsole, it can be best to opt for a shoe profile with a wider or broader design. This larger footprint can help promote a heightened sense of balance upon landings, helping you prevent unwanted missteps as you try and find your footing through paces, turns, climbs, and descents.

Regarding the outsole tread, it’s best to think about your preferred running discipline. For example, avid trail runners will likely need a more aggressive lug pattern to help with traversing over uneven terrain, mud, and more, whereas a standard road-running sneaker can feature a more streamlined pattern that better matches the asphalt or concrete sidewalks.

Either way, we recommend looking for outsole tread patterns composed of rubber. This makeup can be more durable against wear and tear over shoes with patterns directly stamped into the bottom layer of foam.

Fit

Call us crazy, but we think your running shoes should provide a comfortable fit each time you wear them for a training session. You want to avoid excess room, which can lead to interior movement and potential injuries, as well as a constrictive fit that can open the door for unwanted hot spots and blisters. When selecting your stability running shoe, pay close attention to the brand’s size guide and recommendations (when relevant) and opt for the fit that suits your personal measurements best.

Price

Stability running shoes are a more specialized silhouette when compared to more neutral running sneakers. As such, you should expect to pay a little more for these kicks, but the price hike isn’t too egregious. 

On average, you can find a high-quality pair of stability running shoes for roughly $150. Of course, the best stability running shoe is the one that fits within your financial plan. Feel free to look at budget-friendly options or more luxe profiles if you feel comfortable spending a certain amount on supportive running footwear.

[Related: The Best Treadmills Under $1,000]

Final Word

For those dealing with overpronation issues during workouts, stability running shoes can be a potentially comfort-boosting solution. These specialized kicks utilize varying levels of support to help you achieve a more natural stride, which can lead to better load management across your extremities and a more enjoyable association with the training discipline itself.

When deciding whether stability running shoes are right for you, it’s best to examine your running habits as well as your arches. While those experiencing excessive inward roll will likely benefit from stability shoes, athletes with a more neutral or supinated step may find the embedded support uncomfortable or unnecessary. Use this round-up as a guide and put your best foot forward in a pair of kicks that are ready to support your fitness goals in more ways than one.

FAQs

References

1. Zhang, M., Zhou, X., Zhang, L., Liu, H., & Yu, B. (2022). The effect of heel-to-toe drop of running shoes on patellofemoral joint stress during running. Gait & Posture, 93, 230–234. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0966636222000467?via%3Dihub
2. Malisoux, L., Gette, P., Chambon, N., Urhausen, A., & Theisen, D. (2017). Adaptation of running pattern to the drop of standard cushioned shoes: A randomised controlled trial with a 6-month follow-up. Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, 20(8), 734–739. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0363546516654690
3. Horwood, A. M., & Chockalingam, N. (2017). Defining excessive, over, or hyper-pronation: A quandary. The Foot, 31, 49–55. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28549281/
4. Rethnam, U., & Makwana, N. (2011). Are old running shoes detrimental to your feet? A pedobarographic study. BMC Research Notes, 4(1). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21864342/
5. Relph, N., Greaves, H., Armstrong, R., Prior, T. D., Spencer, S., Griffiths, I. B., Dey, P., & Langley, B. (2022). Running shoes for preventing lower limb running injuries in adults. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2022(8). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9394464/
6. Mei, Q., Gu, Y., Xiang, L., Baker, J. S., & Fernandez, J. (2019). Foot pronation contributes to altered lower extremity loading after long distance running. Frontiers in Physiology, 10. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/physiology/articles/10.3389/fphys.2019.00573/full