Have you ever wondered why your calf muscle hurts after running for some time? Did you ever face lower leg irritation after sprinting? Wonder why this happens? The answer to it is right on your feet. You might be wearing the wrong shoes or simply something that doesn’t go with embracing your feet the way they should.
Rather than cursing the shoe brand or your own feet, we recommend you seek a different route. The best solution is to purchase the best running shoes for calf pain. You have to remember that not all shoes are designed to limit your discomfort. Therefore, we have named some of the best products here in this article that are specially made to alleviate your soreness.
If you are a gym-goer and perform kettlebell training, you can moderately hurt your calf without even realising. So, in that case, we prefer you wear shoes like the NO BULL MESH RUNNER or the PRIMUS KNIT EZ when lifting weights.
Top Picks List
Best Overall – ASICS Gel Kayano 27
This is a running shoe that has all the good qualities. From flexibility to adequate cushioning, Effective support to stylish design, you name it. Runners from all over the world have been singing praises about this running shoe.
Premium pick – Brooks Gts 20
It is one of our favourite picks, in terms of quality and workability. It has top of the line materials with high-quality padding, complemented by good looks. All good things come at a price, this is the perfect example.
Best Budget – Salomon X mission 3
From the line of affordable shoes, comes the Salomon Mission 3. It is within budget and boasts fine features that secure a place in the list of best running shoes for calf pain. If you want to ease calf or foot affliction, this can help you.
1. ASICS Gel Kayano 27 running shoes (Best Running Shoes For Calf Issues)
If you are into sports, you might have heard about ASICS shoes. You might have even observed people with the famous Asics logo. Are they that good? Yes, they are! ASICS are one of the best brands when it comes to running shoes or any kind of sports shoes.
The product we want to talk about is Kayano 27, which is modelled for both men and women. You can check out the variants depending on what you need. The basics are all the same and include top of the line features. The upper body is made of synthetic and mesh, this assures you sweat free-running endeavour.
This shoe feels pretty light due to its space Trusstic technology. The structure is such that it gives both men and women the stability they deserve. The gel technology on the rearfoot and forefoot is a lifesaver. It protects the heel and forefoot from impact.
Its flyte foam midsole gives you enough rebound and bounces off the surface. The strides you take will be much more comfortable with this shoe. Both models have gender-specific trusstic to ensure the proper biomechanics for males and females accordingly.
Specifications
- Brand: ASICS
- Upper body: Mesh and synthetic
- Midsole: Flytefoam midsole
- Outsole: Rubber
- Weight: 249-315g
- Engineered mesh upper:
- AHAR Outsole: Acronym for ASICS High Abrasion Rubber. Placed in critical...
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- Engineered mesh upper:
- Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Technology Cushioning System: Attenuates shock...
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| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Variants for both men and women | Toebox too big can cause scrapping |
| A wide array of designs | |
| Jacquard mesh upper for breathability | |
| Sufficient cushioning for shock absorption | |
| Good support | |
| Flexible design | |
| High-performance shoe | |
| Durable design |
Related Article: Most 11 Symptoms of Wearing Wrong Running Shoes
2. NEW BALANCE 410 V6 Running shoes (Best running shoes for lower calf pain)
We admire New Balance as a shoe brand. Simply because they have been in the business for years and years, making top-notch shoes for all kinds of activities. The New Balance 410 v6 is one particular shoe that we love and therefore picked it amongst the best running shoes for calf pain for all good reasons.
Just by the looks of it, you will be amazed at how sleek and crafty it is. There are many different colourways and designs to pick from. Mostly it appears dark but that’s the eye-catching part. This shoe is made of synthetic and mesh body. Make sure you stay comfortable when wearing one.
The v6 comes with an ACTEVA midsole for better support and flexibility. You have seen it right, the way you can manoeuvre this shoe is second to none and yet fit in snugly. If you suffer from calf pain, this is the shoe to wear to counter all the negative effects. It offers good arch support and will keep you stabilized throughout a run. You will not be stressing your calf muscles with this pair of shoes.
Talking about padding, the NB inserts provide maximum cushioning and protection from hits from the road. It shields your feet from unwanted damage. The Eva moulded foam also provides a soft and protective feel to it.
Specifications
- Brand: New Balance
- Upper body: Mesh and synthetic
- Midsole: ACTEVA midsole
- Outsole: AT tread
- Weight: 250 to 300g
- ACTEVA midsole cushioning delivers versatile, flexible support
- AT Tread outsole provides versatile traction during both on and off-road...
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| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stylish design | You might have to upgrade the inserts |
| Soft and comfortable feel | Can be tight for some men |
| Adequate protection due to padding | |
| High-quality midsole and outsole | |
| Good enough airflow due to mesh upper | |
| Lightweight | |
| For multipurpose use, Offroad and on-road activities | |
| Good for the price |
3. NEW BALANCE FuelCore Nitrel V1 (best running shoes to prevent calf pain)
We have heard some women go crazy about this shoe in a good way. Therefore I decided to dig through whether it is with it or not. What we discovered is that it is an excellent running shoe for people who want comfort, flex and adequate padding.
If anyone suffers from plantar fasciitis or has an arc issue, this particular model can work wonders. The inner body is so comfortable that you will love how it feels once you put your feet inside. The snug-fitting is what most people praise.
The upper body is made of synthetic upper mesh, that allows sufficient airflow inside and out. You won’t be sweating much while wearing this pair. The EVA foam, which is placed inside the interior for a soft and protective feel, actually does the trick in terms of protecting your feet from bumps.
It has an AT tread outsole that gives this shoe adequate traction on any given surface. If you are running on a track, road, treadmill or you are weight lifting. This shoe provides good traction no matter what.
Specifications
- Brand: New Balance
- Upper body: Mesh
- Midsole: Revlite midsole
- Outsole: AT tread
- Weight: 214g
- Injection Molded Eva
- Nb Response 2.0 Performance Insert
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- Injection Molded Eva
- Nb Response 2.0 Performance Insert
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| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight | Might fit loosely for some women |
| Comfortable | |
| Breathable mesh upper | |
| Protective padding | |
| Eases unwanted leg pain | |
| Suitable for on-road and offroad use | |
| Comes in different colours |
Related Article: How to Lace Running Shoes: 6 Best Lacing Methods
4. Brooks Adrenaline GTS20 (Best brooks running shoes for calf pain)
If you are looking for a running shoe that has the perfect flexibility and protection for your leg, then the Brooks Adrenaline GTS20 has to be a decent choice. Brooks has been manufacturing decent shoes all these years and you can certainly trust their brand.
The design of this shoe is very simple and has a low profile. Yet the functionality is what makes it stand out. It is protected with DNA Loft crash pad cushioning to ensure you can run without getting hit or damaging your feet.
This shoe has guide rail support that targets the knee area as well. So it’s time to say goodbye to knee soreness. For gym lovers, roadrunners, cross trainers, this pair is an ideal support system. It embraces your feet in place and locks them like no other.
The fitting won’t make you feel constricted. The overall weight of the shoes is pretty lightweight as well. The upper body is made of good quality mesh with a printed surface. Good thing is that there are numerous colour options and designs to pick from.
Specifications
- Brand: Brooks
- Upper body: Engineered Mesh
- Midsole: DNA Loft, EVA
- Outsole: Carbon rubber and Blown rubber
- Weight: 300.5g
- THIS MEN'S SHOE IS FOR: Runners who need a perfect blend of support,...
- SUPPORT AND CUSHION: Provides just the right amount of stability and...
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- THIS WOMEN'S SHOE IS FOR: Runners who need a perfect blend of support,...
- SUPPORT AND CUSHION: Provides just the right amount of stability and...
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| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Provides good support | Expensive |
| Relieves heel pain and knee discomfort | |
| Lightweight | |
| Protective cushioning | |
| Mesh body for breathability | |
| Responsive, energises your strides | |
| Comfortable snug fit |
Related Article: How to Choose Running Shoes: All Beginners To Professionals in 2022
5. ASICS Gel-Venture 7 Running shoes (best men’s running shoes for calf pain)
If you suffer from sore calves and not getting the smooth transition from your shoes, it’s time to change into something better. Check out the Asics Gel Venture running shoe. It has two different variants for men and women separately.
The designs are separated into two categories to match the physicality of men and women. Gel venture is an excellent running shoe with optimal traction on the surface. It has an outsole made to run on uphill and downhill tracks. You can pick up your pace or drop it the way you like and have a smooth running experience.
The inner sock liner can be removed to accommodate orthotic components. You can custom-fit the way you want it. That being said, the inner body is very comfortable right out of the factory. Soft padding ensures a snug fit. The high abrasion rubber on the outer body gives this though the durability and ability to withstand impacts.
The rear and forefoot gel add to the workability of this pair. It gives you the control to run the distance without worrying about stressing your feet or getting hit. It adds a protective layer.
Specifications
- Brand: ASICS
- Upper body: Mesh and synthetic
- Midsole: EVA midsole
- Outsole: Trail specific rubber sole
- Weight: average 296g
- GEL technology -
- EVA midsole -
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- Trail Specific Outsole: Reversed lugs provide uphill and downhill traction...
- Rearfoot GEL technology cushioning system: Attenuates shock during impact...
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| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comes in different colours | Toe area wears out easily |
| Gender-specific models | Too big |
| Allows smooth transition on the road | |
| Replaceable sock liners | |
| High abrasion sole for impact protection | |
| Absorbs shocks and vibrations | |
| Suitable for running on uphill or downhill tracks |
Related Article: Are Huaraches running shoes? Find Huaraches shoe good or not
6. MIZUNO Road running shoe (Best padded shoe for foot pain)
For men who want a durable and comfortable running shoe, the MIZUNO pair is what you need. Originated in the USA, this shoe is one of the decent running pairs we have seen. It comes with many colour variants, thus giving you the option to go for your personalized preference.
This is a high-performance shoe. No matter if you are an aggressive runner or someone who likes small prints or leisure runs on the road. It is designed to go through every tough phase. The upper body is made of mesh fabric, allowing sufficient airflow to keep you dry and not sweaty.
What we like is that this pair has a responsive midsole. U4ic midsole ensures a lightweight feel and more importantly, it resists shocks and vibration from the road, keeping your feet safe and sound at all costs. It has a rugged carbon rubber outsole that makes sure you stay away from unwanted impacts.
This shoe has a wider platform to fit your footing comfortably. It stabilizes your body and provides energy to your feet. When talking about a tough shoe, this comes to our mind. Something resilient and yet soft and comfortable on the feet.
Specifications
- Brand: MIZUNO
- Upper body: Engineered mesh
- Midsole: U4ic midsole
- Outsole: X10 outsole
- Weight: 289g
- MIZUNO ENERZY (FOAM): Offering versatility in its application, while still...
- WAVEKNIT
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- MIZUNO ENERZY (FOAM): Offering versatility in its application, while still...
- MIZUNO WAVE: The MIZUNO WAVE plate disperses energy from impact to a...
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| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Enhances performance | Tread is not up to the mark |
| Comes in many different colours | Not enough arch support |
| Comfortable seamless feel | |
| Lightweight construction | |
| Mesh body for breathability | |
| Sufficient padding for impact protection | |
| Ensures durability |
7. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus running shoes (Best Nike running shoe for calf pain)
If you prefer a smooth and responsive runaround, then look for the Nike Air Zoom shoes. These shoes are made by Nike. As you all know the brand already, there is nothing to brag about. Their quality products have been widely acknowledged.
Zoom Pegasus is crafted with a mesh upper that allows sufficient airflow inside the shoes. You won’t be sweating inside this wonderfully designed pair. Talking about the protective traits, this shoe is stacked with ST foams to provide adequate cushioning. Stop worrying about painful impacts. This Nike pair has your back.
This unit is available for both men’s and women’s versions. The slim and sleek design on it ensures a comfortable fit no matter how much work you put through. The width of this shoe is commendable. It embraces your feet very well and gives you the utmost support on different road surfaces.
When it comes to brands, Nike is one of the finest shoemakers in the running industry. This particular version of running shoes is a viable pick if you take running seriously. The overall looks and comfort are what you desire and this particular item boasts these features to the max.
Specifications
- Brand: Nike
- Upper body: Mesh
- Midsole: Nike React midsole foam
- Outsole: Synthetic
- Weight: Around 280g
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- 36 Pegasus has more perforations and engineered mesh in the upper for...
- A slimmer heel collar and tongue reduce bulk without compromising comfort,...
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| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Brand value | Some complaints about heel slips |
| Snug fit | |
| Men and women’s variation | |
| Comes in different colours | |
| High-quality midsole and outsole | |
| Protective cushioning | |
| Allows better transitioning |
8. UNDER ARMOUR Charged asset 8 Running shoes (Best Under Armour Running shoe for feet issues)
UnderArmour is a top brand in the line of shoemaking. This company has been providing all kinds of high-quality shoes for different sports and running activities. Charged asset 8 running shoes are one of their finest models.
For people who are looking for flexibility, durability, comfort and impact protection, this product has to be your pick. We love the outlook and the way it feels inside. The sleek-looking shoe is available for both men and women. They come in different models, particularly assigned to gender.
The mesh upper body makes it a breathable shoe. It has enough airflow, thus you won’t be sweating much. It has EVA sock liners that provide extra comfort to your footing. The charged cushion on the midsole makes sure you get enough response and energy thrust from this shoe. If you are picky, you can go for light, vivid to dark colour variations.
Specifications
- Brand: UnderArmour
- Upper body: Mesh
- Midsole: Charged cushioning
- Outsole: Synthetic
- Weight: 229-280g
- NEUTRAL: For runners who need a balance of flexibility & cushioning
- Lightweight mesh upper with 3-color digital print delivers complete...
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- NEUTRAL: For runners who need a balance of flexibility & cushioning
- Lightweight mesh upper with 3-color digital print delivers complete...
Last update on 2023-06-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stylish outlook | Padding could have been better |
| Comfortable sock liners | Sizing issues. Check before you buy |
| Good support and stability | |
| Hard-wearing sole | |
| Sufficient padding | |
| Alleviates feet and calf pain | |
| Lighter than most shoes |
9. Salomon X Mission 3 Running shoes (Best affordable running shoe for calf pain)
X mission 3 from Solomon is a good option for runners looking to ease away their calf pain. This shoe comes in variations for men and women. Men’s one has few designs, whereas women can select from a variety of colours and designs.
If you like backpacking, running on the treadmill, gym workouts or simply running on tracks, then this pair is a good choice. It has all the good features from rugged structure to protective shielding. The lug pattern on this shoe enables you to go run on different surfaces.
It has got an adequate grip to hold you into position and keep a perfect posture when trail running, road running on slippery or dry surfaces. It has an EVA midsole that gives you stability and a comfortable feel. The rubber sole is there to withstand impacts and protect your heels and toe area.
It is an affordable shoe with eye-catching colours for both men and women. IF you ask us, we would rate the functionality average, but that too is better than most of the shoes that come at the same price.
Specifications
- Brand: Salomon
- Upper body: Breathable mesh
- Midsole: EVA foam midsole
- Outsole: Synthetic
- Weight: 250-280g
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- Molded EVA midsole gives you a soft, pillow feel on urban or trail...
- Since you never know what kind of surface you'll encounter on the trail,...
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| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ideal trail running shoe | Longevity is not its trait |
| Easy to put on | |
| Comfortable inner padding | |
| Provides good support | |
| Eases feet aches | |
| Good stability | |
| For men and women |
10. Brooks Ghost 7 Running shoes ( Best sneakers for calf pain)
We have already mentioned a Brooks product in our list. The Ghost 7 from brooks is another excellent running shoe for men. This particular model has all good features and it is ideal for people with calf pain or any kind of foot discomfort.
The ghost 13 is stacked with high impact cushioning, allowing you to run on different surfaces without worrying about getting hit. It has ample arch support thus almost all men can work it out. It has a DNA loft midsole for a softer comfort feel.
Let us assure you that this midsole is extremely responsive and durable. It has partial crash pads fitted on different segments to ensure you are safe even when you fall. The air mesh upper is what gives this shoe breathability. Say no to sweaty feet with the ghost 7 running shoe.
Specifications
- Brand: Brooks
- Upper body: Mesh
- Midsole: DNA loft midsole
- Outsole: Rubber outsole
- Weight: 280g
- SMOOTH SNEAKERS: Elevate your running experience with the Brooks Ghost 14...
- QUALITY BUILD: Built with an open-engineered air mesh upper with 3D Fit...
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- SUPPORT AND CUSHION: The Ghost 14 offers neutral support while providing...
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| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Provides a smooth stable run | Thinner top |
| Soft and snug fitting | Excess roomy toe box |
| Adequate padding for impact protection | |
| Easy to use | |
| Flexible and lightweight | |
| Responsive and durable | |
| Has colour variations |
11. Altra Timp 2 trail running shoes (best women’s running shoes for calf pain)
Prefer something sturdy and comfortable right out of the box? Get the Altra Womens Timp 2. This shoe is specially made to embrace all women’s feet. If you have arch problems, calf pains, you are reading about the right shoe. This can ease all your pain away when you go for a run.
The Maxtrac outsole on this shoe allows an extensive run of different surfaces. don’t get bogged down, the Quantic Innerflex midsole is what you need. It provides a comfortable fitting of your feet and lets you run aggressively without hurting your muscles and calf area.
It has a contoured footbed that is soft and also gives you proper support. For the best possible flex, this shoe is an ideal option. Altra has well-shaped foot bedding to embrace any shape and size. If you are looking for a trustworthy brand and affordable shoe, we suggest you go for this one.
Specifications
- Brand: Altra
- Upper body: Breathable mesh
- Mid sole: Quantic innerflex
- Outsole: Maxtrac with trail claw
- Weight: 247g
- Gain Traction: Maxtrac Outsole And Multi-Directional Lug Pattern For Best...
- Designed to Perform: Trimmed Down Overall Design With An Updated Fit For...
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- Gain Traction: Maxtrac Outsole And Multi-Directional Lug Pattern For Best...
- Designed to Perform: Trimmed Down Overall Design With An Updated Fit For...
Last update on 2023-06-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Durable shoe | Not many colour options |
| Has good traction | A bit rigid, flex could have been better |
| Balanced cushioning for impact protection | |
| Topnotch materials | |
| Good looking design | |
| Decent arch support | |
| Lightweight | |
| Affordable |
Related Article: Can women wear men’s running shoes? 4 Facts to Know!!
Causes of calf pain
Muscle injuries are the most common cause of calf pain. But other factors can also induce such irritation, like foot problems. There could be underlying issues such as irritation of the Achilles tendon or rapture. Blood clots can be a problem too. Overstretching the calf muscles through sprints and jumps can cause pain in the particular area as well. These are some basic causes, as there can be many others. It depends on the diagnosis.
Buying guide
Shopping for shoes can be tricky and confusing at times. There are so many things that make up the best shoes. If you are willing to buy the best running shoes for calf pain, you must consider some basic factors.
Materials and breathability
No matter what you wear, your shoes must be made of top tier components to ensure longevity. From its upper body to midsole to pouter sole, sock liners and even the laces. Engineered mesh is a good way to go on the top, it gives you breathability. EVA foam or DNA loft midsoles like the ones on BROOKS shoes that we mentioned are good choices. Running shoes must have good airflow inside.
Durability
SHoes have to be durable no matter what, otherwise it will wear and tear sooner than you can imagine. Running shoes must be made of hard-wearing foams and soft inner bodies for comfort and long-lasting use. ASICS Gel Kayano is a good example of durable running shoes. Do check out the rest of the items.
Padding
Cushioning or padding is something a shoe must-have. For running shoes, it is a must, because this feature ensures your safety. It protects you from unwanted damages and other issues. So better have something that is well-cushioned like the NewBalance v6 or the ASICS Kayano.
Support
If your running shoe doesn’t have a good support system, you will be prone to injuries. Good support is a must-have when buying shoes. A high-quality midsole and outsole that can embrace different types of arches have to be your first choice. You may want to check UNDER ARMOUR Charged asset or Brooks GTS 20. They provide excellent support to your body weight and distribute energy evenly.
Related Article: Top 10 Best Shoes for Running on Grass
List of reviewed shoes for Calf Pain
Last update on 2023-06-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
FAQ
Should I Run With Calf Pain?
If the pain is beyond tolerable, for example, severe impairment of the Achilles tendon, you better stop running and go seek professional help. If the pain is minor and only appears while wearing a particular shoe type, then you can opt for the best running shoes for calf pain.
What Are The Best Running Shoes For Lower Leg Pain?
Check out the NEW BALANCE 410 V6 Running shoes. It is one of the best options to have in terms of alleviating lower leg pain. Don’t forget to check out all the products we mentioned in this article.
Final Verdict
We know how excruciatingly painful it can be to deal with calf irritation. There could be so many reasons causing such a dilemma. Let’s not try to be doctors here. If the pain is too much to bear, you should seek help from a professional doctor. If you observe the pain after running or sprinting, the problem can be your shoes.
Here in this writeup, we have discussed some of the best running shoes for calf pain designed to curb the painful effect. Check out the ASICS, NewBalance shoes we mentioned. Physically test the items yourself and see what comforts you. Don’t limit yourself from running, it’s time to pick up a new pair and get back to it.
Related Article: Best Running Shoes For Shin Splints In 2022: Exercise Routine
