Nearly every runner has a “strike style”—the way they land on their feet while running. Some runners land on their forefeet first (called a “forefoot strike”), and some land on their heels first (called a “heel strike”). Each style of running has its own set of challenges for the body, so it's important to choose the right pair of shoes running shoes for your strike style.
If you're looking to buy new running shoes, it's important to know what type of striker you are before you go shopping. This will help you find the right pair of shoes that will best support your needs and keep you injury-free.
How We Choose
We believe that the best running shoes for heel strikers are those that offer plenty of support and cushioning. Since heel strikers tend to land on their heels when they run, it's important that they find a shoe with enough cushioning in the back of the foot. In addition, very few companies make shoes specifically designed for people who prefer to land on their heels when they run heel strike. As such, we looked only at shoes made by brands dedicated to making running shoes for heel strikers shock absorbing heel cushion.
Brooks Men's Ghost 14 Neutral Running Shoe
The Brooks Ghost 14 shoes are a great choice for runners who want to experience the best of both worlds: lightweight and comfort. These shoes have a minimalist design that makes them easy to wear and comfortable on your feet.
The cushioning is also surprisingly good, dual density heel especially compared to other running shoes in this price range. The midsole is made up of soft foam with a little bit of give, so you don't feel like you're wearing concrete slabs on your feet. The outsole is also flexible enough that it doesn't feel rigid or hard beneath your foot when running.
There's no lacing system here, runners heel strikers but the shoe still fits snugly and provides excellent support while still being breathable and lightweight. Overall, these are great for anyone looking for a versatile pair of running shoes that can handle any type of terrain without weighing you down too much.
ALTRA Men's AL0A547L Lone Peak 6 Trail Running Shoe
Altra's EGO trail shoe is a great choice for runners who want a lightweight and comfortable shoe that provides good grip on various surfaces. The outsole features a multi-directional TrailClaw pattern designed to provide excellent grip on terrain ranging from dirt trails to asphalt roads.
The shoes also feature an adaptive midsole which provides a responsive yet cushioned ride, making them ideal for running on varied terrain such as trails or roads. Additionally, the heel cup of the shoe has been designed to allow your toes to spread naturally, cushioning bias providing additional comfort during runs.
Additionally, these shoes have been constructed with quality materials such as mesh and synthetic material in order to provide breathability while still providing support where needed. Overall, we highly recommend these shoes if you are looking for a versatile and comfortable option that can handle various terrains well.
Brooks Ghost 14 Women's Neutral Running Shoe
The Brooks Ghost 14 is the perfect running shoe for those looking for a lightweight, comfortable and responsive shoe. The midsole has been designed with an integrated segmented crash pad which provides a smooth ride while cushioning every step and stride.
The shoe also features BioMoGo DNA and DNA Loft cushioning which works together to provide a just-right softness underfoot without losing responsiveness and durability. The Ghost 14 is built on a neutral support profile which provides high energizing cushioning while providing optimal stability during your run. Whether you're training for your next marathon or simply looking to get in some cardio at the gym, stride style this shoe will keep you comfortable all day long!
It's worth noting that these shoes are not suitable for those who have diabetes due to their higher sensitivity to moisture and temperature, land gradually but if you're looking for an everyday running shoe then this won't disappoint!
Best Running Shoes For Heel Strikers FAQs
Running is a great way to get exercise and fresh air. But it's not always easy to figure out where to start when you're looking for the best running shoes extra cushioning for heel strikers.
There are so many different options, brands, fitness goals and sizes available. It can be tough figuring out what's best for you! Plus, with all of the different answers to this question, how do you know who to trust?
Below we've answered some of the most Frequently Asked Questions about running shoes for heel strikers so that you'll feel confident making your next purchase!
What Heel Drop Is Best For Heel Strikers?
As we've discussed, the best running shoes for heel strikers are going to have a low heel drop. This will give your legs a little break and encourage you to run with a midfoot or forefoot strike. Generally speaking, the lower the heel drop, the better it is for your knees and hips.
Most companies that specialize in running shoes focus on making low-heel drop sneakers with adequate cushioning. Different runners prefer different types of cushioning, though, so make sure you read reviews before buying! We recommend looking at products from brands like ASICS and New Balance if you're specifically looking for a product designed for heel strikers.
How Do I Stop My Heels From Striking When I Run?
There are several reasons you may be striking your heels while running: poor form, worn-out shoes, or weak calf muscles.
If you have the correct running form and a good pair of shoes, heel strike running then it's likely that your calf muscles are too weak to absorb the impact of landing. Strengthening your calves can help prevent heel striking by ensuring they're strong enough to react quickly upon landing.
You can strengthen your calves using any number of exercises including single leg hops, wall sits, and donkey raises. Perform these exercises two to three times per week for best results.
Do Most Runners Do Heel Strikes?
Most runners do land on their heels, but it's not as bad as you might think. A 2009 study showed that the majority of runners (about 83 percent) landed with a moderate degree of heel strike, common questions and only about 16 percent landed very far forward on their mid-foot. So while most runners do land on their heels, they don't usually do so with extreme force.
Can You Heel Strike In Zero Drop Shoes?
You certainly can, and many people do. However, it's worth noting that zero drop shoes put your entire foot flat on the ground when you stand. That means there's no lift or cushion between your heel and the floor – something that rarely happens in regular shoes unless you're doing deep knee bends.
If you're not used to this sensation, it might feel a little strange at first, especially if you have an injury or condition that affects your knees or ankles. But over time, most people get used to it and adjust accordingly. If you try zero drop shoes for the first time and find them uncomfortable and unwearable, don't despair: plenty of other brands offer 'low-drop' options with fewer inches of vertical separation between your forefoot and heels (usually three to six compared to zero).
Is It OK To Heel Strike When Running?
Technically, yes. You can run in any way you want as long as you're able to keep up a good pace for the duration of your chosen run distance or race. If that means heel striking and pumping your arms like a cartoon character, then go for it!
However, it's worth noting that most experts believe landing on the heels with each stride puts more pressure on the knees than landing mid-foot or with each foot flat on the ground. That doesn't mean mid- and fore-foot striking are better; they have their own benefits and drawbacks. It's just important to know all the facts before deciding which running technique is best for you.
Conclusion
Choosing the best running shoes for heel strikers is not an easy task. To ensure you are making a well-informed decision, it is important to consider several key factors such as your running style, fitness level and foot type. Additionally, it is critical to understand what makes a shoe suitable for heel striking so that you can make sure to choose one that will meet your needs without causing any harm to your body. With careful consideration of these elements, you can select the perfect pair of running shoes that will help you achieve new personal bests in your workouts!
Brooks Men's Ghost 14 Neutral Running Shoe