TOP 24 Best Running Shoes for Underpronation (Supination) Reviewed 2024
Are you among the 10% of runners who underpronate?
Underpronating, also known as supinating, can cause knee pain, shin splints or joint pain. Not things you want to have to be dealing with, right?
But, wearing the right shoes can help a lot.
This list of the best running shoes for supination of 2024 will get you started. There is something here for every kind of runner, and a little guide on what to look for when making your decision.
Contents
- TOP 24 Best Running Shoes for Underpronation 2024
- Asics Men's Gel-Nimbus 20 Running Shoes
- Brooks Men's Revel 2 Running Shoes
- Mizuno Men's Wave Prophecy 7 Running Shoes
- Saucony Men’s Ride ISO Running Shoes
- New Balance Men's 880v8 GTX Running Shoes
- Nike Men’s Epic React Flyknit Running Shoes
- Adidas Men’s Supernova Running Shoes
- Nike Men's Air VaporMax Flyknit Running Shoes
- Mizuno Men's Wave Creation 19 Running Shoes
- Asics Men's Gel-Quantum 360 4 Running Shoes
- New Balance Men's Zante v4 Running Shoes
- Altra Men's Lone Peak 4.0 Trail Running Shoes
- Nike Men's Air Zoom Vomero 13 Running Shoes
- Altra Men's Torin 3.5 Road Running Shoes
- Newton Men's Fate IV Running Shoes
- Mizuno Women's Wave Rider 22 Running Shoes
- Nike Women's Zoom Pegasus 35 Turbo Running Shoes
- Saucony Women’s Echelon 6 Running Shoes
- Newton Women's Gravity 7 Running Shoes
- Brooks Women's Ghost 11 Running Shoes
- Nike Women's Air Zoom Terra Kiger 4 Running Shoes
- Altra Women's Escalante 1.5 Running Shoes
- Asics Women's GEL-Cumulus 20 Running Shoes
- Brooks Women's Cascadia 13 GTX Trail Running Shoes
- Three Shoe Features You Should Pay Attention to if You Underpronate
- Are You in the Right Place?
TOP 24 Best Running Shoes for Underpronation 2024
Asics Men's Gel-Nimbus 20 Running Shoes
- FLYTEFOAM MIDSOLE TECHNOLOGY Our FlyteFoam technology provides exceptional bounce back and responsiveness no matter the distance, utilizing organic super fibers to help reduce packing out that traditionally happens with softer, low density foams.
- FLUIDRIDE MIDSOLE: ASICS FluidRide midsole provides the ultimate combination of bounce back and cushioning properties with reduced weight and exceptional durability.
Review: The Asics Gel Nimbus 20 is an ideal shoe for under pronators. It is a highly cushioned, neutral running shoe, which means your foot won’t be forced further outwards but will instead be encouraged to roll inwards.
It features gel pads in the heel and forefoot, specially designed FlyteFoam spanning the entire midsole and an additional Fluid ride layer of cushion that also acts to give you an energetic bounce back as you propel yourself forward.
Pros
- Neutral, well cushioned running shoe.
- Trustic guidance system in the sole works to perfect gait.
- Rearfoot and forefoot gel pads to absorb shock.
Cons
- Asics tends to run a little narrow.
Takeaway
A comfortable, well-cushioned ride, these could be the best running shoes for underpronation.
Brooks Men's Revel 2 Running Shoes
- SHOE SIZE: “D” = Medium width
- FOOT SUPPORT: Ideal for runners with a medium to high arch looking for neutral support.
- CUSHIONED FEEL: Soft and protective, these shoes provide just the right amount of cushion in each step to let you float through your run, walk and everyday life.
- PLUSH CUSHIONING AND FLOAT FEEL: BioMoGo DNA midsole cushioning dynamically adapts to your stride, providing comfortable cushioning for just-right softness underfoot to let you float through your stride.
- SOFT, COMFORTABLE AND VERSATILE FIT: The shoe’s internal bootie surrounds your foot in all-day comfort, no matter how your foot naturally moves whether you’re on a run, walk or the gym.
Review: The Brooks Revel 2 is a neutral running shoe with plenty of cushion designed for high to mediums arches.
BioMoGo DNA cushioning adjusts to your weight and stride, absorbing impact and taking it off your knees and joints. It’s also well suited to heel strikers with excellent heel cushioning and a secure heel cup.
This shoe has a relatively wide toe box, so your toes can spread naturally as you run, and the one-piece knit upper looks at home on the road or in the office if you like a shoe that can transition from work to workout.
Pros
- BioMoGo DNA cushion adjusts to your weight, stride, and impact.
- Very comfortable.
- Excellent heel support.
- Durable.
- Responsive.
Cons
- 12mm drop is only really suited to heel strikers.
Takeaway
A very comfortable running shoe with a wide toe box, provided you’re a heel striker and don’t mind the 12mm drop.
Mizuno Men's Wave Prophecy 7 Running Shoes
- Airmesh Upper
- Infinity Wave Plate for maximum cushioning and energy return
- Fit in motion upper for flexible support. Durable carbon rubber that allows for longer wear
- Soft anatomical sockliner for extra arch support and cushioning
- U4ic Midsole for cushioning
Review: The Wave Prophecy 7 is a luxurious and cushioned, neutral shoe that actually moves with the foot, which is something not all well-cushioned running shoes do well.
The all-new Infinity ultimate wave plate takes the brunt of the foot strike impact so your knees and joints don’t have to, while also adding a degree of responsiveness.
Pros
- Removable insole.
- U4iC midsole.
- X10 carbon rubber outsole prevents premature wear.
- Well suited for high arches.
Cons
- Not suited for low arches.
Takeaway
Novel sole and cushion design make the Mizuno Wave prophecy 7 the go-to shoe for impact protection and those who supinate.
Saucony Men’s Ride ISO Running Shoes
Review: This is a high-quality neutral shoe from Saucony that’s a popular choice with under pronators. The Ride ISO was the first shoe to incorporate Saucony’s ISO technology, providing a snug, sock-like fit.
The shoe also features XT900 high wear material on the sole to cover high wear areas, especially on the outside edge of the sole, where supinators tend to wear the sole the most.
Pros
- Ample, comfortable toe box allows your toes room to move naturally.
- 3mm of “Everun” top sole for added cushion.
- PowerFoam EVA spans the entire midsole for yet another layer of cushion.
Cons
- Shoes are a tad heavy, however, these are every day trainers.
Takeaway
An everyday running trainer with a top-quality midsole, these are some more of the best running shoes for underpronators.
New Balance Men's 880v8 GTX Running Shoes
- 10 mm drop: due to variances created during the development and manufacturing processes, all references to 10 mm drop are approximate
- Blown rubber outsole
- Engineered mesh upper
- Gore-Tex fabric offers waterproof protection and durability
- No-sew material application
Review: The New Balance 880v8 is a neutral, cushioned, road running shoe with a flexible comfortable upper and a heel designed for good lock-in.
The GTX part of the name means the upper incorporates durable yet breathable gore-tex material to keep you running in any kind of weather.
The reason this made the list of best shoes for supinators is due to the Trufuse midsole with T-beam construction that creates a well-cushioned yet stable ride.
Pros
- Gore-Tex weather resistant upper.
- Flexible through the mid and front foot.
- Trufuse midsole with T-beam construction for ultimate shock absorption.
Cons
- Narrow width not available.
Takeaway
These New Balance shoes are among the best running shoes for underpronation. With another excellent midsole design, you won’t be disappointed.
Nike Men’s Epic React Flyknit Running Shoes
- 37 % cotton, 36 % polyacrylic, 17 % polyamide, 6 % polyester, 4 % elastodiene.
- Nike Epic react # Black/Black – Dark Grey – Pure PLA # Nike Flyknit
- Black/Black – Dark Grey – Pure PLA
Review: This shoe is light and flexible with a stretchy, form-fitting Flyknit upper, and lightweight but well-cushioned midsole.
Nike’s React foam provides a comfortable, shock-absorbing ride with good responsiveness, which is perfect for providing overpronators with enough cushion to encourage them to pronate more without resulting in a spongy, slow ride.
Pros
- Responsive and well cushioned React foam midsole.
- Snug, secure Flyknit upper.
- TPU heel clip provides a secure fit.
- Good shoe for heel strikers.
- Very lightweight.
Cons
- Runs narrow.
Takeaway
Soft light and durable, with react foam making them cushioned and responsive, these are great shoes for supinators and heel strikers.
Adidas Men’s Supernova Running Shoes
- Weight: 11.5 ounces (size 9); Runner type: neutral; Midsole drop: 10 mm (heel: 32 mm / forefoot: 22 mm)
- boost is our most responsive cushioning ever: The more energy you give, the more you get
- STRETCHWEB rubber outsole flexes underfoot for an energized ride; Engineered mesh upper is a lightweight, breathable second skin for a supportive, comfortable fit
- TORSION SYSTEM between the heel and forefoot for a stable ride; Padded tongue for instep comfort; Optimized forefoot construction for a roomier toe
- Seamless lightweight TPU quarter panels for support with every step
Review: These Adidas shoes are built with the famous Boost Cushioning which took the running shoe world by storm when it first came out. In fact, Nike’s React foam was Nike’s answer to Boost.
Boost foam is known for being highly responsive while remaining lightweight, which combined with the Supernova’s durability and great traction, makes for a very popular shoe.
Pros
- Lightweight.
- Responsive Boost Cushioning.
- Continental rubber outsole resists wear and abrasion.
- Shoe offers good support for plantar fasciitis.
Cons
- Run a half size large and a tad shallow.
Takeaway
The best running shoes for underpronation and plantar fasciitis for men.
Nike Men's Air VaporMax Flyknit Running Shoes
- Flywire cables work with the laces to provide more support as you tighten them
- Rubber outsole sections on heel and forefoot for durability
- Shown: Black/Dark Grey/Metallic Silver/White
- Brand New With Original Box
Review: These are another excellent Nike shoes for underpronators, being well-cushioned, neutral shoes.
Using Nike’s VaporMax air pockets, these shoes come with a unique form of cushioning that results in a bouncy feel. There is no foam midsole as such, instead, bubbles of air sit directly under the insole, meaning you are literally running on air.
Pros
- VaporMax technology.
- Flyknit upper means a comfortable, snug, locked-in fit.
- Removable insole.
- Very lightweight.
Cons
- Not everyone’s going to love the slip-on design.
Takeaway
If you like a bouncy feel to your runs, these shoes are for you.
Mizuno Men's Wave Creation 19 Running Shoes
- New Infinity Wave geometry and shape provides long lasting, softer cushion and response
- New full length, articulated U4icX bottom midsole for a smoother, softer, and more flexible ride
- New premium anatomical sock liner for improved fit and comfort
- Mizuno Dynamotion Fit: 3 panel upper construction with seamless printed overlays for support and a disappearing fit
- Removable insole
Review: Mizuno’s Wave Creation 19 is another excellent neutral road running shoe with a high level of responsiveness.
The wave plate technology is what gives this shoe its springy feel while also contributing to good overall shock absorption. This combined with the U4ic midsole and mesh construction makes for a breathable, well-cushioned ride.
Pros
- Infinity wave plate provides a snappy feel.
- U4ic midsole through the entire length of the shoe.
- Anatomical sock liner offers arch support.
- Gender-specific design.
Cons
- Not as durable as other shoes in this list.
Takeaway
Runners love the Mizuno Wave Creation 19 for its cushioned and responsive ride. These are some of the best running shoes for underpronation and high arches.
Asics Men's Gel-Quantum 360 4 Running Shoes
- Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Technology Cushioning System - Attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle.
- Trusstic System technology - Reduces the weight of the sole unit while retaining the structural integrity of the shoe.
- Heel Clutching System Technology - Exoskeletal heel counter provides improved support and creates improved heel fitting environment.
- FluidFit Upper - ASICS FluidFit upper technology combines multi-directional stretch mesh with stretch reinforcements that adapt to the athlete's foot, creating a truly customized glove-like fit.
- Seamless Construction - The use of seamless materials reduces the potential for irritation and friction caused by traditional stitches and seams.
Review: The Asics Gel Quantum 360 4 running shoe is a neutral running shoe in Asics’ premium cushioning category.
The rear and forefoot gel pads combined with “Solyte” foam in the midsole creates a very plush ride well suited for long distances and recovery runs. But true to form, being an Asics shoe, it’s also a stable and supportive ride with the impact guidance system encourage good alignment.
Pros
- “Solyte” midsole reduces joint impact.
- Impact Guidance system corrects pronation issues to encourage a natural gait.
- Asics high abrasion rubber placed in key areas of the sole, including the outside edge.
Cons
- A little responsiveness is sacrificed in favor of cushioning.
Takeaway
These are easily some of the best men’s running shoes for underpronation and long distances.
New Balance Men's Zante v4 Running Shoes
- Fresh Foam midsole
- Bootie Construction
- No-sew material applicatiom
- Removable insert
- Lightweight solid rubber outsole
Review: The Zante v4 running shoe is a super lightweight, neutral, cushioned running shoe, ideal for midfoot strikers.
New Balance’s Fresh Foam midsole cushioning creates a good platform for supinators while being responsive enough for some speed.
This is an everyday trainer yet it is still super light, just 8.5 oz for men’s sizes.
Pros
- Thick Fresh Foam midsole cushions impact and saves your knees.
- Rubber sole forms the outer edge, just where supinators need sole durability.
- Lightweight and fast.
Cons
- Not ideal for wet or slippery conditions, better for dry urban terrain.
Takeaway
Plush but still responsive, a nice running shoe for every day training.
Altra Men's Lone Peak 4.0 Trail Running Shoes
- Durable mesh upper with integrated tongue
- Improved, grippier MaxTrac rubber
- StoneGuard resembles the skeletal structure of a foot
- Stack Height: 25mm
- Cushioning: Moderate
Review: The Altra Men’s Lone Peak 4.0 provides a trail option for overpronators who get bored of the road. It’s a zero drop shoe designed for forefoot strikers, with a nice wide toebox and very durable outsole.
They have excellent traction and formidable durability with a protective rock plate that doesn’t take away too much ground feel.
Pros
- A-Bound high responsive cushioning.
- Wide fit with good sized toe box.
- Rugged durable Max Trac rubber outsole withstands wear.
- If zero drop is a bit much for your calves, you can insert a heel lift under the insole.
- Very compatible with trail gaiters.
Cons
- Not ideal for technical trails.
- Very long laces with not enough eyes to allow for a really secure fit.
Takeaway
One of the best trail running shoes for supination providing moderate cushion with a hard-wearing sole.
Nike Men's Air Zoom Vomero 13 Running Shoes
- Circular-knit mesh upper offers ventilation and lockdown.
- Zoom Air units provide lightweight, responsive cushioning.
- Pressure-mapped outsole delivers excellent cushioning through toe-off.
- Zoom Air units in the heel and forefoot are bottom loaded for soft, responsive cushioning.
- Segmented solid rubber under the heel enhances traction and durability in this high wear zone.
Review: The Air Zoom Vomero is another favorite from Nike, achieving lightweight but responsive cushioning.
It uses Nike’s high performing Lunarlon foam in the midsole, which while not as elite as React foam, still does a very good job. This combined with Air Zoom units creates a springy feel in a neutral package.
With a 10mm drop, it’s ideal for heel strikers looking for a comfortable a lightweight shoe.
Pros
- Nike Lunarlon cushioning.
- Air zoom units at the heel and forefoot.
- 10 mm drop keeps your stride zooming forward.
- Flywire lacing system for a secure fit.
Cons
- Runs small, order a half size up.
Takeaway
Best running shoes for supination 2024 – a plush, responsive shoe that alleviates impact.
Altra Men's Torin 3.5 Road Running Shoes
- Completely revamped upper with integrated tongue
- More breathable mesh
- Synthetic Nubuck Heel
- Stack Height: 28mm
- Cushioning: Moderate
Review: A neutral road running shoe by Altra with a natural “toe shaped” toe box, responsive cushioning and scant 8.5 ounce weight make this shoe a great choice for road runners looking for a snappy ride.
The plush shock absorbing midsole and strong wear-resistant foot pod outsole make the Torin 3.5 a good choice for supinators. But, remember this is a zero drop shoe for forefoot strikers.
Pros
- Cushioned neutral road running shoe.
- A-Bound midsole cushion.
- Foot cradling insole for an added layer of plushness.
- Wide, spacious forefoot prevents excessive ankle rolling.
Cons
- The shoelace hole is not too durable and may tear.
Takeaway
A light, cushy ride with a wide forefoot for runners who underpronate.
Newton Men's Fate IV Running Shoes
- Action Reaction Technology
- Natural Running
- Surface: Road. Differential: 4.5 mm. Open-weave mesh and no-sew overlays provide optimal foot conformity and breathability. Allover reflective hits. Breathable fabric lining. Newtonium full-length foam insole offers added responsiveness that sits closer to the foot. Action/Reaction Technology: A highly responsive, trampoline-like and engaging midsole cushioning. Biomechanical Sensor Plate promotes a lighter, more efficient stride. Five-lug P.O.P. 2 outsole platform. Durable s.h.a.r.c. outsole ma
- The Newton Running® Fate 4 blends comfort, durability and excellent response for the ideal everyday running shoe.
- Predecessor: Fate 3.
Review: Rather than just being neutral shoe, Newton’s Fate 4 is actually designed with supinators in mind, with full-length Newtonium cushioning and a biomechanical sensor plate.
It has a 5mm drop encouraging a midfoot strike, a spacious forefoot interior and a very comfortable, breathable upper.
It also has lugs in the heel and forefoot that provide additional traction and cushion for a comfortable ride.
Pros
- Wear resistant rubber outsole.
- Newtonium Midsole cushion absorbs shock and returns energy.
- Low drop puts your foot in a natural position.
Cons
- A little pricey.
Takeaway
Bouncy and responsive with the impact protection you need make this Newton Fate 4 one of the best supination running shoes.
Mizuno Women's Wave Rider 22 Running Shoes
- Proven Cloudwave Platform for smooth and responsive ride
- U4ic midsole with soft heel center
- Engineered Stretch Mesh for adaptive Fit in Motion
- Articulated Heel Zone for smoother transition
Review: Mizuno’s Waver Rider 22 is a very comfortable, well-cushioned but supportive, neutral shoe, creating the perfect combination for heel strikers who supinate.
The combination of U4ic cushioning and the wave plate result in a very responsive but soft ride with excellent shock absorption for heel strikers. Meanwhile, the shoe’s overall structure provides a secure fit and nice roll through.
Pros
- Cloudwave Cushion Technology.
- U4ic midsole.
- 12 mm gives a more traditional feel for heel strikers.
Cons
- Toe box runs on the narrow side.
Takeaway
This is a really versatile and comfortable shoe, equally suited to long runs and tempo runs and likely the best women’s running shoes for supination.
Nike Women's Zoom Pegasus 35 Turbo Running Shoes
Review: Nike’s Zoom Pegasus Turbo is effectively an upgrade of the tried and true Pegasus, but with Nike’s Zoom X foam in the midsole for even more responsive and durable cushioning.
It’s super lightweight and very comfortable which makes it a popular choice for runners looking for a versatile running buddy.
Pros
- Super light, impact absorbing ZoomX foam midsole.
- Just 6.9 oz.
- Comfy heel collar that tapers away from your Achilles heel.
- Durable and long-lasting midsole.
Cons
- Expensive.
- Narrow fit.
Takeaway
Another versatile and but also very lightweight running shoe with excellent durability in the midsole, provided you can stomach the price.
Saucony Women’s Echelon 6 Running Shoes
- EVERUN Topsole for continuous cushioning and enhanced energy return
- SAUC-FIT for a highly adaptable, dynamic fit in the mid-foot
- 8mm PU Sockliner delivers added added durability and resiliency at foot strike
Review: Saucony designed the Echelon 6 for runners who experience underpronation or need extra impact protection and sole durability.
The shoe is tall enough to wear an orthotic and has an external TPU heel counter to add structure and keep your heel comfortably locked in.
The 8mm drop is designed for midfoot striking and the toe box is wide enough for plenty of healthy toe splay.
Pros
- Neutral cushioned running shoe built to Saucony’s high quality standards.
- Luxe sock liner puts more comfort underfoot for a smooth landing.
- Tall enough to accommodate orthotics, if needed.
Cons
- Not weather resistant, ideal for dry city terrain.
Takeaway
For the underpronator who needs to use an orthotic insert, this Saucony running shoe fits!
Newton Women's Gravity 7 Running Shoes
Review: The Newton Gravity 7 has several shock-absorbing features that make it our choice for female runners who supinate.
The Newtonium cushioning combined with the action-reaction technology in the heel and midfoot work together to take the force of impact from your running stride. This protects your knee and ankle joints and is especially important for runners who supinate.
Pros
- Newtonium cushioning protects from impact and has great rebound.
- Action-reaction technology in the heel and midfoot to absorb impact.
- Anatomically correct insole adds comfort.
Cons
- Runs small, laces are short.
- Expensive.
Takeaway
Plenty of bounce back from a shoe that will spare supinators’ knees and joints. The best women’s running shoes for supination if you’re ok with the price.
Brooks Women's Ghost 11 Running Shoes
- SHOE SIZE: "B" = Medium width, "D" = Wide width
- FOOT SUPPORT: Ideal for runners with a medium to high arch looking for neutral support.
- BALANCED, SOFT CUSHIONING: BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT cushioning work together to provide a just-right softness underfoot without losing responsiveness and durability—yet it feels lighter than ever.
- SMOOTH, STABLE RIDE: The Segmented Crash Pad is designed to adapt to each foot fall, so no matter how your foot lands, you’ll enjoy the smoothest ride possible.
- SOFT, SECURE FIT: The newly engineered mesh upper practically disappears on foot with strategically placed stretch and structure where you need it most.
Review: The Brooks 11 Ghost is a really popular shoe for a wide range of runners. It’s known for being a workhorse of a shoe with formidable cushioning and a solid, stable platform.
The BioMoGo foam, combined with the DNA Heel crash pad absorb shock to save your knees and feet from injury.
The segmented rubber sole assists in dispersing impact and is reinforced at the heel and outside edge to add durability to the outsole.
Pros
- DNA Heel Crash pad.
- Supportive – good for high arches.
- One-piece flexible knit upper with textured overlay for durability.
Cons
- The toe box is a bit shallow.
Takeaway
Best running shoes for supination and high arches for ladies.
Nike Women's Air Zoom Terra Kiger 4 Running Shoes
- Flymesh upper for a lightweight feel and allows your foot to breathe
- Foam midsole with Zoom Air units in heel and forefoot for a springy step
- Top cap for added protection from rocks and tree roots
- Flywire cables work with the laces to increase comfort and balance when running
- Waffle design with exaggerated lugs on the bottom of the shoe for traction on wet-surfaces
Review: The Terra Kiger 4 is a trail running shoe by Nike that is on my list of best trail running shoes for supination because of the cushy midsole and strategically placed Zoom Air Technology in the heel and forefoot that make this shoe an impact-absorbing and energetic ride.
The durable lugged outsole adds to the appeal, and robustness of this shoe allows you to use it in all terrains and weather.
Pros
- Zoom air placed in the front and heel area.
- Excellent traction in the rain and on the trail.
- Minimal drop and low stack height for a natural foot position.
Cons
- Size up, these Nikes run small.
Takeaway
Comfortable and durable women’s trail running shoes that hold up under all weather conditions.
Altra Women's Escalante 1.5 Running Shoes
- Ideal Uses: Road Running, Fitness / Cross-Training, Walking
- Platform: Fully Cushioned Zero Drop platform and FootShape Toe box
- Insole: 6 mm Contour Footbed
- Stack Height: 24 mm; Midsole: Altra EGO
- Outsole: Footpod; Upper: Engineered Knit
Review: The toe shaped neutral road running shoe by Altra is sure to be a favorite of under pronators due to the responsive and impact-absorbing Altra Ego midsole, cushy 6mm insole and extremely lightweight.
Be aware that it is a zero drop shoe though, so it’ll take some getting used to if you’re coming from a traditional style.
Pros
- Just 6.4 oz for women’s size.
- Zero drop shoe with a natural foot shape so you can run as nature intended.
- Altra shoes for women are designed for the anatomical shape of women’s feet.
- Vegan running shoe – no animals were harmed in the making of this shoe.
Cons
- Knit upper is not stretchy.
Takeaway
Super lightweight, reasonably cushioned, neutral vegan running shoe for supinators.
Asics Women's GEL-Cumulus 20 Running Shoes
- I.G.S (IMPACT GUIDANCE SYSTEM) TECHNOLOGY: ASICS design philosophy that employs linked componentry to enhance the foot's natural gait from heel strike to toe-off.
- FLYTEFOAM MIDSOLE TECHNOLOGY: Our FLYTEFOAM technology provides exceptional bounce back and responsiveness no matter the distance, utilizing organic super fibers to help reduce packing out that traditionally happens with softer, low density foams.
- REARFOOT AND FOREFOOT GEL BRAND TECHNOLOGY CUSHIONING SYSTEM: Attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle.
- SEAMLESS CONSTRUCTION: The use of seamless materials reduces the potential for irritation and friction caused by traditional stitches and seams.
- AHAR OUTSOLE: Acronym for ASICS High Abrasion Rubber. Placed in critical areas of the outsole for exceptional durability.
Review: The Asics Gel-Cumulus has many features that make it a great shoe for runners who underpronate.
The rear and front gel pads absorb shock while the FlyteFoam midsole that spans the length of the shoe is another shock-absorbing layer that helps further with impact.
The FlyteFoam propel technology in the forefoot minimizes toe strike impact and propels you forward during toe-off.
Pros
- Rear and forefoot gels.
- Light, bouncy, shock-absorbing FlyteFoam midsole.
- High abrasion rubber outsole to protect against wear.
Takeaway
The Asics Gel Cumulus running shoes will help you avoid shin splints and alleviate extra shock caused by feet that underpronate.
Brooks Women's Cascadia 13 GTX Trail Running Shoes
Review: The Cascadia 13 trail running shoe by Brooks is a well-cushioned neutral trail running shoe that incorporates Brooks BioMoGo cushion in the midsole.
This unique material conforms to your stride taking up the shock and sparing your shins and feet from impact.
Pros
- Support for medium to high arches.
- BioMoGo Midsole cushion.
- Gore-tex upper protects your feet from rain and mud.
Cons
- Lace holes need to be reinforced.
Takeaway
One of the most comfortable Cascadia versions yet, well-cushioned with a smart fit.
Three Shoe Features You Should Pay Attention to if You Underpronate
Impact Resistance, Shock Absorption and Cushion
Supinators, or those who underpronate, have a foot that does not absorb shock as well as those who pronate normally.
A “normal” foot is designed to pronate about 15% as you run.
A normal degree of pronation, combined with a natural and temporary flattening of your foot arch, is what takes the brunt of the impact as your foot strikes the ground. Think of it as your foot’s built-in suspension system.
If your arches are flat, or your foot does not pronate, guess what?
Your underpronating foot lacks the natural ability to absorb shock properly.
The extra shock caused by your foot not absorbing shock properly is taken up by your knees and other joints, causing strain, pain and possibly or eventually, injury.
I don’t mean to freak you out, I just want you to know why underpronators need shoes with a lot of cushion and other shock-absorbing features.
Rule #1 for underpronation:
Find shoes with plush cushioning and other impact absorbing features to keep extra shock and impact away from knees and joints.
Find a Neutral Running Shoe
If you supinate, you want to find a neutral running shoe.
NOT a stability shoe, or motion control shoe, as these are designed for overpronators.
Why?
Shoes for overpronators have features like roll bars and variable density foam, that cause the foot to roll outward, the exact opposite direction you want!
Neutral running shoes do not try and guide the foot to roll in either direction and as an underpronator, this is what you want.
However, there is a small caveat to this. There is such thing as a neutral shoe being unstable, which can cause your ankle to roll and may mean you end up supinating more.
The best running shoe for supinators will still have some basic stability in place to keep your foot in alignment, it just won’t have all the medial posting of traditional stability shoes.
Rule #2 for underpronators:
Find a neutral, cushioned running shoe.
Look for a Durable Sole that Resists Outer Edge Wear
An easy way to diagnose underpronation is to take a look at an old pair of your shoes.
Are your shoes worn on the outside edge?
If so, this is a sign you roll your foot excessively outwards as you run. Hence, you underpronate, or supinate. Supinators wear the outside edge of the shoe faster than other areas of the sole.
Do you think you actually overpronate after all? Not to worry! We have a list of the best running shoes for overpronation as well so you won’t be left hanging!
Rule #3 for Underpronaters:
Look for shoes with a durable sole, ideally one with a firm material along the outside edge, to resist the wear that your foot strike naturally creates.
Are You in the Right Place?
If your supination hasn’t caused any issues thus far and you think you have pretty strong feet, you might be interested in minimalist running shoes as an alternative to the highly cushioned, neutral shoes on this list.
Minimalist running shoes require you to run with either a forefoot or midfoot strike, but once this becomes second nature, issues such as over or underpronation should, in theory, be a thing of the past.
One more step along from minimalist shoes are barefoot shoes, which really provide the least amount of cushioning and protection from the ground that you can get.
But, the theory is that once you’re running on your forefoot, your foot absorbs the shock of impact so you don’t need to rely as heavily on the cushioning in your shoes.
Alternatively, do you have a flat feet? People with flat feet usually end up overpronating rather than underpronating because their low arch naturally pulls the foot inwards.
But, not all stability shoes are a good choice for people with flat feet as they may have too much of an arch shape which will dig into your foot. We have a list of the best running shoes for flat feet if you think that’s what you need.
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