If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis, you know how painful it can be to walk, run or even stand. The Achilles tendon is the largest and strongest tendon in the body, connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. It helps you push off the ground and propel yourself forward. But when it gets inflamed or injured, it can cause stiffness, swelling and a sharp pain in the back of your heel.
One of the most common causes of Achilles tendonitis is wearing shoes that don’t fit well or provide enough support and cushioning. Shoes that are too tight, too loose, too flat or too high can put extra stress on your tendon and aggravate your condition. That’s why it’s important to choose shoes that are comfortable, supportive and suitable for your foot type and activity level.
In this blog post, we will review some of the best men’s shoes for Achilles tendonitis that can help you reduce pain and prevent further damage. We will also give you some tips on how to choose the right shoes for your needs and preferences.
The Best Men’s Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis
Here are some of the best men’s shoes for Achilles tendonitis that we recommend:
– Brooks Ghost 14: This is a popular running shoe that offers a smooth and cushioned ride. It has a soft and breathable mesh upper that adapts to your foot shape and a padded tongue and collar that prevent irritation. The midsole features BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT technologies that provide responsive and durable cushioning. The outsole has a segmented crash pad that absorbs shock and promotes a natural transition. The heel drop is 12 mm, which can help reduce the strain on your Achilles tendon.
– ASICS Gel-Kayano 28: This is another great running shoe that provides stability and support for overpronators. It has a jacquard mesh upper that enhances breathability and fit. The midsole features FlyteFoam Propel and FlyteFoam Blast technologies that deliver a bouncy and lightweight cushioning. The outsole has AHAR+ rubber that enhances durability and traction. The heel drop is 10 mm, which can also help relieve pressure on your Achilles tendon.
– New Balance 990v5: This is a classic walking shoe that combines comfort and style. It has a pigskin leather upper that is durable and flexible. The midsole features ENCAP technology that provides a balance of cushioning and stability. The outsole has Ndurance rubber that resists wear and tear. The heel drop is 12 mm, which can also help ease the tension on your Achilles tendon.
– Hoka One One Bondi 7: This is a maximalist running shoe that offers a plush and soft cushioning. It has an engineered mesh upper that is breathable and comfortable. The midsole features EVA foam that provides a high level of shock absorption. The outsole has Meta-Rocker technology that promotes a smooth and efficient gait. The heel drop is 4 mm, which can help reduce the stress on your Achilles tendon by encouraging a more midfoot strike.
– Vionic Walker Classic: This is an orthotic walking shoe that provides arch support and alignment for flat feet. It has a leather upper that is durable and easy to clean. The midsole features EVA foam that provides cushioning and shock absorption. The outsole has a rubber pod that enhances grip and durability. The heel drop is 5 mm, which can also help reduce the stress on your Achilles tendon by promoting a more natural foot position.
How to Choose the Right Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis
When choosing shoes for Achilles tendonitis, you should consider the following factors:
– Fit: Your shoes should fit snugly but not too tightly around your heel, midfoot and forefoot. You should have enough room in the toe box to wiggle your toes comfortably. You should also avoid shoes that have seams or stitches that rub against your heel or Achilles tendon.
– Cushioning: Your shoes should have adequate cushioning in the heel and forefoot to absorb shock and reduce impact on your tendon. You should also look for shoes that have a soft or padded heel counter or collar to prevent friction and irritation.
– Support: Your shoes should have enough support in the arch and midfoot to prevent excessive pronation or supination, which can cause misalignment and strain on your tendon. You should also look for shoes that have a firm or rigid heel counter or shank to provide stability and prevent excessive movement of your heel.
– Heel Drop: This is the difference in height between the heel and forefoot of your shoe. A higher heel drop can help reduce the stress on your Achilles tendon by shortening it slightly and allowing it to rest more. A lower heel drop can help reduce the stress on your Achilles