Injuries are a part of our everyday lives, no matter what you do. You may be an athlete, a gym and fitness buff or maybe just a casual exerciser, no one is really immune to it. As always, best practices needs to be observed when exercising in order to prevent such nasty injuries and setbacks.
But the good news is problems like foot fatigue, sciatica, or shin splints can be recovered with appropriate footgear.
And these 10 best running shoes for shin splints are the most appreciated footwears from the expert’s end that reduce the risk of having unwanted injuries.
Are You in hurry!!! After depth research and recommendation of a serious runner, we Pick our best three. Check the Top 3 Best Running Shoes For Shin Splints. If you sit back to know the risk factor, treatment, exercise routine and more about runners Frequently asked Question for Shin Splints you reached the right place.
Best Value
- Low top shaft
- Mizuno wave technology
- Cloud wave cushion
Premium
- Synthetic
- Synthetic
- Wide Range of sizes
- Guiderail support system
Great Value
- GEL cushioning system (Rearfoot).
- Removable sockliner
- Trail specific outsole
Here is the list of recommended shoes as we prefer for shin splints-
1. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19 – Best Cushioned Running Shoes For Shin Splints and Flat feet arch
Key Features:
- Synthetic
- Mesh
- Range of sizes from D = Medium width to EEEE = Extra Wide width
- Guiderail support system for injury prevention
- Cushioned feel
- Bio Mogo DNA & DNA loft cushioning
- Engineered mesh, modernized fit
Customer Review Research:
- Positive review- 98.5%
- Negative Review- 1.5%
Here you have my most favorite running shoe which has been on top for years because of its unconditional support to all types of Arch. Especially the people with flat arch, who barely find appropriate shoes, appreciates this Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19 to a great extent.
The guide rail support system of the shoes focuses on the most injury-prone part of an athlete’s body. It’s cushioned all over to support any shock coming from the high-impact activities.
Its engineered mesh promises overall structural integrity to keep you shielded from any unwanted injuries.
Moreover, if you already got injured, this will help you to recover fast.
Last but not the list, its Bio Mogo DNA coupled with DNA loft cushioning makes it extremely cushy and durable as well which is very rare to find.
Pros
- Perfect for all types of runners
- Alleviate Pain
- Very comfortable
- Best Brook model to date
- Quality Material
- Perfect for all types of runners
- Slip-resistant
- Responsive
Cons
- No such Complaints from the consumer end
2. ASICS Gel-Venture 6 – Best rough Running Shoe for Shin Splints
Key Features:
- Synthetic
- Rubber sole
- Low top shaft
- GEL cushioning system (Rearfoot)
- Removable sockliner
- Trail specific outsole
- AHAR outsole
Customer Review Research:
- Positive review- 95%
- Negative Review- 5%
[Considering 145900 Global Ratings]
Now let me introduce you to the trademark shoe for running which is also considered as one of the greatest footwear to recover serious injuries and aches. It is none other than ASICS Gel-Venture 6.
The ASICS Gel-Venture 6 is specially engineered for all sorts of terrain, no matter what or where you are going to ride. Its noteworthy Rearfoot GEL Cushioning technology soothes ground-bites during rough landing and ensures a smooth transition.
The unique AHAR outsole guarantees an apt abrasion to stabilize your moves on the track. Moreover, the outsole is made in such a way that can withstand a lot of pressure in crucial circumstances.
And when it comes to Arch support, it is no exception; like all other ASICS footwear, it has adequate arch support to dominate over your competition.
Last but not the least, the removable sockliner makes it compatible with those who are going through pain and needs to use medical orthotics.
Pros
- Great for high arches
- Perfect for trail runners
- Cloud-like insole
- Stable
- Lightweight and very comfortable
- Good for shin splints
- Great support
Cons
- Few complaints about durability
3. Brooks Glycerin 17 – Best Trail Running Shoes for Shin Splints
Key Features:
- Fabric
- DNA loft super soft cushioning and smooth transitions
- Engineered mesh upper
- 3D fit print technology
Customer Review Research:
- Positive review- 94%
- Negative Review- 6%
[Considering 19023 Global Ratings]
The Brooks Women’s Glycerin 17 Cushioned Road Running Shoe is designed for neutral runners who are seeking comfort and softness in their pair of footwear. Experience a luxurious feeling in your underfoot every time you run and glide with this product.
The Ortholite sockliner provides a premium step in comfort and the DNA loft technology assures heel to toe movement that’s incredibly soft and smooth.
Highly recommended for speed, track, cross fit training, and treadmill. This product has rave reviews online as is great for runners of all types.
Pros
- Perfect for running
- Very comfortable
- Supreme cushioning system
- Cushy
- Plush fit
- Smooth in transitions
Cons
- Toe box are narrow
4. Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 – best running shoes for shin splints and overpronation
Key Features:
- Textile and synthetic
- Rubber sole
- Low top shaft
- Mizuno wave technology
- Cloud wave cushion
- Snappy responsive flex
- Engineered mesh upper
- Premium sockliner
- U4ic midsole
Customer Review Research:
- Positive review- 93.5%
- Negative Review- 6.5%
[Considering 4171 Global Ratings]
The Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 Running Shoe is equipped with Mizuno’s Wave technology which is dedicated to runners.
Taking the agility in the account of a high-and-mighty runner, they provide the best possible cushioned insole to their shoes. As a result, the footgear gets comfier and highly efficient against intense shocks. Therefore, a runner feels less pressure about superfluous injuries.
If you have an overpronating foot and struggling for supportive footgear, I have this super-supportive shoe for you. It helps to balance perfectly even while going real fast. Moreover, its stability helps to heal fatigue and makes you run some extra miles.
A top brand once again proves why they are at the pinnacle of shoe innovation. You can try it out for yourself!
Pros
- Durable
- Extremely comfortable
- Superior cushioning system
- Removable insole
- Great for runners
- Perfect for overpronation
Cons
- Beware of the sizing (Go for 1 size up)
5. New Balance 940v3 – best affordable running shoes for shin splints
Key Features:
- Synthetic
- Rubber sole
- Removable insole
- ABZORB technology provides
- Underfoot cushioning and great comfort
- Single density medial post
Customer Review Research:
- Positive review- 93%
- Negative Review- 7%
[Considering 2572 Global Ratings]
New Balance has been producing lots of top-notch footgear for the last couple of decades and 940v3 is no exception. It is made of quality materials and fits in some extraordinary technology to improve the functionality.
Moreover, New Balance 940v3 offers a roomy toe box for relaxing steps. If you have wide feet, this pair won’t disappoint you. And most importantly, it is true to size.
The shoe takes pride in its cushioning system which is definitely better than any other average insoles. It is committed to deliver ultimate comfort to struggle high-level workouts.
Unlike most other shoes at this price range, it is considered outstanding pronation footgear. So, you won’t feel uncomfortable while moving fast and rough.
If you ask me, I would love to pick this footwear to go some extra miles than my caliber looking no further.
Pros
- Great support
- Great for pronating feet
- Consistent quality
- Great fit and very comfortable
Cons
- Can be stiff at times
- Little heavier than New Balance 940v2
6. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 21 (4E) – best stability running shoes for shin splints
Key Features:
- Fabric
- Rubber sole
- GEL cushioning technology
- Impact Guidance System (I.G.S.) Technology
- Guidance line midsole tech
- AHAR outsole
- Guidance Trusstic System Tech
Customer Review Research:
- Positive review- 92%
- Negative Review- 8%
[Considering 46076 Global Ratings]
It’s tough to find such a running shoe that features the ultimate mixture of eye-catchy look, superior comfort, and reliable protection at the same time. But somehow The ASICS Men’s Gel-Nimbus 21 (4E) Running Shoe has managed so.
Evidently, high-impact activities like Running, Skiing, and some other intense game like tennis, football requires excessive support and cushioning.
And considering that ASICS add on remarkable GEL cushioning system to attenuate any impact and allows flexibility in movement across multiple terrains.
Its IGS technology enhances your foot’s natural gait from heel-strike to toe-off. The Guidance line at midsole makes sure to enhance gait efficiency where the AHAR outsole technology provides exceptional durability for the shoes.
Last but not the least, it is admired taking the severe wear and tear of high-intensity training, and at the same time provide injury protection to your foot and lower leg to its best.
Pros
- Popular Running Shoe
- Shock absorbent
- Great fit
- Lightweight and very comfortable
- Durable
- Significant Stability
Cons
- Runs narrow on the midfoot
7. HOKA ONE Clifton 4 – Best Running Shoes for shin splints and high arches
Key Features:
- Synthetic
- Rubber sole
- 5.00mm Heel to toe drop
- Lace-Up Closure
Customer Review Research:
- Positive review- 91.5%
- Negative Review- 8.5%
[Considering 4060 Global Ratings]
The HOKA ONE, ONE Men’s Clifton 4 Running Shoe is a gem of a shoe for the serious athlete. It offers balanced cushioning for comfort along with adequate stability and support.
And the blend of these 3 features makes any of the shoes ideal for potential counteract against Injuries like shin splints, sciatica, torn cartilage, and many more.
In particular, the footwear helps to prevent the spark of shin splints and makes you feel better right away.
I find many people appreciating its remarkable high-arch where a few consumers (with low arch) complained about the support as well which clearly define the footgear as High-Arch-Shoe.
So, if you have a high arch and got disappointed finding out a good pair of shoes, it could be a worthy replacement.
And according to the rest (people with average arch), this sneaker is by far one of their best purchases.
Pros
- Perfect Training Shoe
- Very Comfortable
- Lightweight
- Great fit
- Adequate support and stability
Cons
- Runs Narrow (Go for 0.5 sizes up)
8. Mizuno Wave Inspire 13 – best cushioned running shoes for shin splints
Key Features:
- Mesh
- Rubber sole
- Double fan wave design wi
- U4icX heel wedge for great cushioning
- Responsive midsole
- Lace-up Closure
- Weight- 11 oz.
- Heel Drop- 12 mm
Customer Review Research:
- Positive review- 91%
- Negative Review- 9%
[Considering 2165 Global Ratings]
Mizuno Wave Inspire 13 is specially engineered keeping high-intensity workouts and training in mind. It is durable, comfy, and flexible.
To make things even better, especially the landings, Mizuno has provided an extremely responsive U4icX heel wedge cushioning system which response instantly against shocks. Therefore, it won’t mind even after all day rough and rigid punishing.
When it comes to stability, this pair of shoes is undoubtedly compatible with running and similar activities.
Mizuno takes pride in their shoes’ with perfect fit, breathability, and flexibility so that whatever routine you may do, your shoes will be able to handle it. Also, The rubber sole on the bottom racist uncertain slips on a wet surface.
Pros
- Great running shoes
- Compatible shoe for plantar fasciitis
- Reasonable Price
- True to size
- Lightweight
- Compatible arch support
- Durable and responsive
Cons
- Needs break-in time
9. HOKA ONE Clifton 5 – Best long distance Running Shoes for Shin Splints
Key Features:
- Synthetic
- Rubber sole
- Open engineered mesh construction
- Full EVA midsole
- Signature Hoka One one cushion system
- Moderate heel bevel
- Full ground contact design
Customer Review Research:
- Positive review- 90%
- Negative Review- 10%
[Considering 2870 Global Ratings]
HOKA ONE- ONE Clifton 5 is a stand-out footgear with good grip, decent cushioning, and needed support. In particular, its Full EVA midsole provides cushioning all over that could absorb shock from any impact, no matter what the intensity is.
To make your experience more live, the mesh construction allows airflow to keep your feet dry and odor-free. Moreover, its pointful flexibility brings smoothness to your steps.
Most remarkably, the shoe draws the attention of the people with supination. According to most reviews, the shoes give a premium feel to the supinated feet.
If I put it all in a way, the overall attribute of the shoes will give you more agility and speed to experience your best run.
Pros
- Very comfortable
- Well cushioned
- Removable insole
- Lightweight and durable
- Great fit for any foot types
- All-day running Shoe
Cons
- Runs narrow on the toe
10. New Balance W940v3 – Best women’s running shoes for shin splints
Key Features:
- Rubber sole
- ABZORB midsole technology
- T-beam
- Now sew application
- PU insert
- 100 % textile and synthetic
Customer Review Research:
- Positive review- 89%
- Negative Review- 11%
[Considering 2680 Global Ratings]
The New Balance Women’s w940v3 Running Shoe is designed to provide the ultimate stability for all athletes. With its new and improved cushioning system and transition properties, this pair can be a great buy for everyone.
ABZORB technology makes sure that the underfoot cushioning is top class and will provide the comfort you would need for those long runs.
Exceptional control guaranteed with the single density medial post, all this while reducing excess weight and stiffness that comes during transitions.
Some say this is the best yet from New Balance, and that’s definitely saying a lot.
Pros
- Perfect cushioning system
- Great stability and support
- Great for overpronation, for wide footed individuals
- Mesh design won’t cramp your foot
- Overall great feel and quality
Cons
- Sizes can be larger than usual
- Can actually be stiff
- Sizes can be larger than usual
- Can actually be stiff
What are Shin Splints exactly?
Shin Splints or what is also called a medial tibial stress syndrome is an inflammation of the muscles, bone tissues, and tendons around your tibia. Pain usually occurs where muscles attach to the bone or on the inside edge of your tibia called your shinbone.
It is a common exercise problem that typically develops after physical activity. Often associated with running, any rigorous sports activity or most commonly when someone is trying to start a fitness program. Oftentimes, simple measures can actually relieve the pain like enough rest, ice, and some stretching exercises (that’s why warm ups are so important).
Also, just simply not overdoing any exercise can prevent the development of shin splints. Make sure to talk to your trainer or your doctor before taking up any new rigorous physical activity, especially if you have a medical history that might lead to shin splints or any other musculoskeletal conditions or injuries.
How do shin splints develop?
We’ve talked about the basics and so now we will dig in deeper as to how shin splints develop.
On a nutshell, shin splints develop when the muscle of the bone tissue or periosteum off your leg gets too overworked due to repetitive activity. It is also common to occur when you have a sudden shift or change in your physical activity.
Changes like when you suddenly increase the number of days or hours you exercise within a week or a certain amount of time. Also changes in duration, intensity or terrain can greatly affect the bone muscle thus resulting in shin splints.
Think about when transferring from a treadmill to a hill or running longer distances frequently.
Runners are oftentimes the usual victims of shin splints. Also, military recruits and dancers are prone to the said condition.
As you prefer Treadmill, I’ve written a handful guide for running on treadmill and benefits of wearing protective gear.
Factors that Increase the Risk of Shin Splints
On a more serious note, we’ll discuss some of the risks factors that increase your chances of contracting shin splints.
- Overall lack of fitness
- Smoking
- Sudden increase in physical activity
- Sudden increase in intensity of exercise
- Intense sports that involve starting and stopping on a dime i.e. basketball, football
- Activities that take place on uneven grounds or terrain
- Weak core muscles, muscle imbalance
- Inappropriate shoe wear, worn out shoes without proper cushion
- Generally weak ankles
- Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon
- Flat footed people, overpronation or feet with high arches
Generally speaking, taking things in moderation is key and just promoting an overall healthy lifestyle will prevent shin splints as it will prevent any other illnesses or diseases.
But what if you are an athlete or really into intense physical activities? What can you do?
In Order To AVOID OR PREVENT THE DEVELOPMENT OF SHIN SPLINTS
Wear appropriate shoe wear
We can’t emphasize enough the need for great footwear. If you are someone who is really into sports or into a very active lifestyle it will be worth it to invest on the best running shoes for shin splints.
It won’t only prevent injuries but will save you time, money and energy in the long run.
Get your stride checked
Yep, you read that right. If you are an avid runner, get your stride checked in your store. Even the staff might be able to help you determine which gear or footwear would be best for your style.
Switch up on your Shoes Often
Try your best to keep more than just one pair in order for you to switch up often. This is to make sure you are wearing good quality shoes every time you go for a run. Also, replace a shoe when you’ve used it for about 500 miles.
Work your way up on Fitness
Patience is key, the best way to prevent shin splints from developing is to gradually build up in your regimen. You’ll be sure that your muscles and bones will be ready when the time comes to up the ante in your physical activities.
Cross Train
Try more than just one sport or routine. Trying multiple activities will help build muscles and strengthen your bones on different parts of your body.
Shock Absorption
Try shoes that have shock absorbing features, this will help reduce the impact to your shin during exercise.
Treatment for Shin Splints
So let’s say that you’ve already developed shin splints, what do you do next? We list down some of the recommended treatments for it.
Ease Up On The Activities
Try to switch on low impact activities while recuperating. The condition should heal itself in time so try swimming or other similar activities for a bit. You’ll never know when you might pick up on a new sport or routine while you’re at it.
Ice
When symptoms are surfacing you can use ice packs as first aid. Place ice packs wrapped in towels every once in a while on the affected area.
Medicine
Over the counter medication such as pain relievers can oftentimes help with the pain. Go for ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, and acetaminophen if symptoms persist please consult your doctor.
Stretch
If you can bear the pain then gently do stretching exercises. Get help from experts, doctors, medical practitioners or your trainers for some generally known exercises to ease the pain of shin splints.
!!! Warning !!!
Once again it is best to consult your doctor if any of the symptoms persist in spite of the above mentioned DIY treatments.
Proper diagnosis of shin splints can be done through a discussion of the patient’s medical history, and physical examination by a medical practitioner. X-rays may also be taken.
Some of the listed conditions below may have similar symptoms to shin splints and are important to take note of:
- 1For smokers, there may be reduced blood flow in the lower leg.
- 2Muscle hernia or leg muscle bulging out of place.
- 3Muscle swelling causing nerve compression or what we call compartment syndrome.
- 4Radiculopathy or nerve problems in the lower back.
- 5Small cracks in the tibia or stress fractures.
- 6Inflamed tendons or tendinitis.
- 7Blood clot caused by exertion or venous thrombosis.
- 8Muscles and tendons compress an artery or popliteal artery entrapment syndrome.
Some of these cases are severe but given their nature similar things may cause them so it is important to keep in mind the prevention tips we provided earlier in the article to reduce your risks.
Exercise Routine for Shin Splints
We provide an exercise routine for when you are suffering from shin splints.
Toe Stretch
Stand with your feet together then crouch down to your heels, drop your knees towards the floor as you keep toes tucked under. Stay with hands on the floor feeling the intensity.
Breathe properly and stay in position for 45 seconds.
Shin Stretch
Sit on your shins with the top of your feet flat on the floor and then bring your inner calves and ankles together. Place hands on the floor behind you and then gently lean back.
Hold this for 20 seconds and repeat twice more.
Low Lunge Ankle Stretch
Start in low lunge position with right foot forward and left knee down. Keep right foot heel flat as you draw your right knee forward.
Continue to draw knee forward and you stretch and stay on this side for a minute then switch.
Calf Raises
Just simply lift your heels up and down, as high as you can.
Perform this set three times of 25.
Hip Raises
On your back with feet flat on the floor, heels should be about hip distance apart and also close enough that you can touch them with your middle finger. Place elbows by your side, press down with your upper arms as you lift your hips.
Keep feet firmly planted and begin to draw heels back towards hips then release.
Perform 3 sets of 10.
Forearm Plank
20px;”>Easy enough just plank with your forearms with elbows firmly planted under your shoulders and feet about hip width apart. Keep your forearm firmly planted on the floor, to create body tension begin to aggressively draw your elbows towards heels.
Hold for 45 seconds on 3 sets.
Single Leg Balance
Draw right knee into your chest, stand tall and strong on your left leg.
Find your balance until fatigued comes to your left leg before switching legs.
Pigeon
Draw your right knee towards wrist and place your right shin on the floor while extending your left leg behind you. Then roll towards the front part of your left thigh.
Hold for a minute before switching sides.
Best Running Shoes for Shin Splints Buyer’s Guide
So which of the best running shoes for shin splints would you choose? Here are some tips while you are shopping around.
How do shin splint running shoes differ from your standard running shoes?
We wouldn’t really say that there are specific shoes for those who suffer from shin splints or a pair that might prevent its development. But the good news is what matters is the quality of the shoes you will be wearing.
These shoes should possess the following features:
Great support
Chances are you will run on different terrains, play different kinds of sports with varying intensity. A great shoe will provide adequate if not extra support to your feet and lower body it should also be long lasting.
Go for a pair that is shock absorbent and is flexible enough to support your ankle/foot and lower leg amidst all the twists and turns you’d you in the course of an activity. It can get rough so stability is key.
Right fit
A lot of bad things can happen if your shoe is loose or is too tight. Finding a pair that’s just right for your size is a no brainer. You don’t want a shoe coming off and throwing you on the ground all of a sudden resulting in all sorts of injuries.
Be wary of different brands as sometimes there is disparity in the sizes when you order so as much as possible fit them nicely and try them out before purchasing. Read adequate amounts of reviews or contact the seller if purchasing online.
Cushion
Cushion makes for comfort, cushion makes for breathability. Your foot needs to feel comfortable not just on the touch but also on the feel. Enough cushion on the different crucial parts of your shoe will help your endurance and stamina and eliminate unnecessary pain, especially when you go all out for a long period of time.
So choose a pair that possess great features in cushioning.
Durability
We are not just referring to a pair that’s going to last you for a long time. We are talking about superb construction. A durable shoe won’t just maintain its quality for a long time with all the wear and tear your rigorous activities offer but also won’t just tear up on you when you’re in action.
That is bad news as you don’t want to just develop shin splints or incur a serious injury because of your shoe giving up on you mid play.
Design and brand
There are trusted brands out there and they are trusted for a reason, great quality. Go for a great brand some may come at a hefty price but hey, it sure will be worth it. Shoes are always great investments, especially if you are investing in your health, as they say, health is wealth.
Related Article: How to choose running shoes
Best Running Shoes for Shin Splints – Frequently Asked Question
How do I know if I’ve developed shin splints?
Answer
Initial symptoms would be a dull ache in the lower leg (front part). And if it’s pain that developed after exercise.
How do I prevent shin splints?
Answer
Instead of shifting to an intense activity right away, try to gradually build your body up. Wear the best running shoes for shin splints only.
How can I relieve my shin splints symptoms?
Answer
Rest, decrease intense activity, and a pack of ice. Also, over the counter medication like ibuprofen should decrease the level of pain.
How long can shin splints symptoms last?
Answer
With DIY treatments symptoms should alleviate in a few hours. If not it’s time to contact your doctor.
What are other complications that may come with shin splints?
Answer
Some stress fractures that may be of a more serious nature might come about shin splints. So it is important to consult your doctor.
Final Thoughts
Only the best running shoes for shin splints can give you a good chance of not succumbing to the condition. Coupled with a good diet and a healthy lifestyle you may find that this can be a great hack to a better quality of life.
No matter what you will do make sure to be disciplined and it will surely pay in dividends. So stay healthy, stay strong and may our lives be injury free.