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Best Running Shoes For Lower Back Pain And Plantar Fasciitis (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a solution to help lower back pain and plantar fasciitis while exercising, investing in a pair of quality running shoes is a great place to start. But with so many shoes on the market, how do you know which ones are best for your needs? Before purchasing, consider factors like arch support, cushioning, and durability to ensure the shoes you select will provide optimal comfort and support during your workouts.

Arch support is essential for those with plantar fasciitis, as it helps to distribute pressure evenly throughout the foot. Cushioning is also important, as it provides shock absorption and can help to reduce impact on joints, which can contribute to lower back pain. Additionally, look for shoes with durable materials that can withstand regular use and provide adequate grip to prevent slips and falls.

What type of exercises do you typically engage in, and how do your feet land during each movement? Do you have high or low arches? Are you prone to foot or joint pain? Answering questions like these can help narrow down your shoe options to find the best fit for your individual needs. And remember, investing in quality shoes can not only improve your workout experience but also help prevent injury and discomfort down the line.

10 Best Running Shoes For Lower Back Pain And Plantar Fasciitis

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for men seeking comfortable and supportive sneakers with a wide fit and stylish black/blue design.
2
It is ideal for women runners who need support and cushioning during their activities.
3
This product is ideal for runners who need stability and support during their workouts.
4
The product is ideal for individuals who engage in walking and running activities seeking high-level comfort and performance.
5
The product is ideal for women who need a comfortable and supportive shoe for running.
6
This product is ideal for women who enjoy running and need comfortable athletic shoes in black/light aluminum color.
7
This product is ideal for women who enjoy running and want a comfortable, high-performance shoe.
8
The product is ideal for women runners seeking comfort and style with a lightweight design for improved performance.
9
Ideal for women runners seeking comfortable and supportive footwear with a stylish design.
10
The product is ideal for women suffering from heel pain and seeking relief, protection and comfort during daily activities.
Ideal for men seeking comfortable and supportive sneakers with a wide fit and stylish black/blue design.
It is ideal for women runners who need support and cushioning during their activities.
This product is ideal for runners who need stability and support during their workouts.
The product is ideal for individuals who engage in walking and running activities seeking high-level comfort and performance.
The product is ideal for women who need a comfortable and supportive shoe for running.
This product is ideal for women who enjoy running and need comfortable athletic shoes in black/light aluminum color.
This product is ideal for women who enjoy running and want a comfortable, high-performance shoe.
The product is ideal for women runners seeking comfort and style with a lightweight design for improved performance.
Ideal for women runners seeking comfortable and supportive footwear with a stylish design.
The product is ideal for women suffering from heel pain and seeking relief, protection and comfort during daily activities.

1. Brooks Ghost 14: Wide, Comfy, Stylish Sneakers.

The Brooks Ghost 14 running shoes are designed to give you an elevated running experience. With 20 different style options, these runners not only look good but also provide a smooth ride. The shoes have a form-fitting interior that keeps your feet cushioned and secure. The open-engineered air mesh upper with 3D Fit Print technology provides strategic stretch and structure to the upper. The shoes also feature a soft fabric lining and a removable foam insole for underfoot support and comfort.

One of the standout features of these shoes is the enhanced cushioning. The shoes use signature DNA LOFT and BioMoGo DNA which offers incredibly soft and gender-friendly cushioning. The cushioning now extends beyond the heel, allowing for an easy transition from landing to toe-off.

The Brooks Ghost 14 shoes offer optimal support with a differential of 12 mm. The shoes are set on a soft blown rubber outsole that supplies both traction and grip. The outsole also features flex grooves for more natural forefoot movement and fluidity.

These comfy running shoes are easy to pull on and off, thanks to the lace-up closure that ensures a secure and precise fit. The shoes also feature a plush and cushioned tongue and collar that provide extra comfort.

Overall, the Brooks Ghost 14 running shoes are a great choice for anyone looking for a comfortable and supportive pair of running shoes that also look great. With their quality build and enhanced cushioning, these shoes are sure to become a favorite among runners.

Pros

  • 20 different style options
  • Form-fitting interior for cushioning and security
  • Open-engineered air mesh upper with 3D Fit Print technology
  • Removable foam insole for underfoot support and comfort
  • Enhanced cushioning with signature DNA LOFT and BioMoGo DNA
  • Optimal support with a differential of 12 mm
  • Soft blown rubber outsole that supplies both traction and grip
  • Flex grooves for more natural forefoot movement and fluidity
  • Lace-up closure ensures a secure and precise fit
  • Plush and cushioned tongue and collar provide extra comfort

2. Brooks Womens Adrenaline Gts 22 Black/black/ebony 7.5 B – Medium

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 is a must-have for runners who want to experience a smooth ride while receiving the trusted GuideRails support that won't hinder the fun of the run. This women's shoe provides the perfect amount of stability and support, making it ideal for overpronation while giving high energizing cushioning. The shoe is not only perfect for road running and cross-training but also for the gym or wherever you want to take them.

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance, offering great cushioning and support. The updated midsole is now 100% DNA LOFT cushioning paired with the Segmented Crash Pad, providing a balanced, soft cushioning system that offers an even softer, smoother ride and easier flow from landing to toe-off. The 3D Fit Print upper technology has been strategically used, providing the structure and proven fit that Adrenaline is known for without excess bulk.

Brooks has shifted its focus beyond the feet to the most injury-prone part of a runner's body: the knees. The Guiderails holistic support system keeps excess movement in check, allowing you to move comfortably and securely.

Pros

  • Provides the perfect amount of stability and support for overpronation.
  • High energizing cushioning.
  • Certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe.
  • Granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance.
  • Balanced, soft cushioning system.
  • Strategically used 3D Fit Print upper technology.
  • Guiderails holistic support system keeps excess movement in check.

3. Brooks Mens Adrenaline Gts 22 Black/black/ebony 11 D – Medium

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 has gained popularity among runners as a reliable and supportive running shoe that delivers excellent performance. These shoes offer a perfect blend of softness and support, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride every time. Designed for everyday runs and soft landings, these shoes provide medium support and cushioning with Brooks GuideRails technology.

The updated midsole of the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 now boasts 100% DNA LOFT cushioning, delivering a softer and smoother ride. The soft midsole and Segmented Crash Pad work in harmony, providing easier flow from landing to toe-off. These shoes are a great option for runners who value comfort and support in their footwear.

Overall, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 is a top choice for runners looking for a reliable and supportive shoe that offers a smooth ride and comfortable fit.

Pros

  • Offers a perfect balance of support and softness
  • Ideal for everyday runs and soft landings
  • Medium support and cushioning with Brooks GuideRails technology
  • Updated midsole is now 100% DNA LOFT cushioning for a soft, smooth ride
  • Soft midsole and Segmented Crash Pad team up for easier flow from landing to toe-off

4. Skechers Men's Max Cushioning Elite-Performance Walking & Running Shoe Sneaker, Black, 9.5

Take your running and walking experience to the next level with the Skechers Max Cushioning Elite. It features an ULTRA GO cushioned platform that enhances comfort and response during workouts. The virtually seamless engineered mesh fabric upper ensures breathability and comfort, while the synthetic contrast colored grid overlay detail at the front, sides, and heel adds a stylish touch to the shoe. The lace-up front provides a secure fit, and the midsole cushion offers a responsive ULTRA GO comfort platform. The Air Cooled Goga Mat insole provides shock absorption and support, making it ideal for high-impact activities. The shoe also features a lightweight, durable, and flexible parametric web outsole that provides multi-surface traction, and forefoot flex grooves that aid in flexibility and promote a smooth transition. The mid-foot strike zone promotes efficiency in each stride. Additionally, the shoe is machine washable, and can be washed on the gentle cycle cold and hung to air dry. It has a weight of 11.5 oz per shoe in a men's size 9, an offset of 6mm heel drop height, and a 2-inch heel height.

Pros

  • Provides cushioned comfort and response during workouts
  • Breathable and comfortable upper design
  • Air Cooled Goga Mat insole provides shock absorption and support
  • Lightweight, durable, and flexible outsole provides multi-surface traction
  • Forefoot flex grooves aid in flexibility and promote a smooth transition
  • Mid-foot strike zone promotes efficiency in each stride
  • Machine washable design for easy cleaning

5. Brooks Ghost 14 Women's Neutral Running Shoe – Black/pink/yucca – 9

The Brooks Ghost 14 is perfect for runners who want a smooth ride without any distraction. It is specially designed with a simplified midsole construction that ensures seamless transitions. This women's shoe is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance. It provides neutral support and high energizing cushioning, making it ideal for road running, cross-training, gym workouts, and other activities. The Ghost 14 is the successor of the Ghost 13 and comes with balanced, soft cushioning. The BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT cushioning work together to provide just-right softness underfoot without losing responsiveness and durability. The entire midsole is made up of DNA LOFT material, which provides a softer and smoother ride. The Segmented Crash Pad, an integrated system of shock absorbers, ensures a smooth and stable ride, no matter how your foot lands. The 3D Fit Print upper technology provides a soft and secure fit that moves with your foot, allowing for a comfortable and customized fit.

Pros

  • Provides neutral support and high energizing cushioning
  • Ideal for road running, cross-training, gym workouts, and other activities
  • Balanced, soft cushioning with BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT technology
  • Smooth and stable ride with Segmented Crash Pad technology
  • Soft and secure fit with 3D Fit Print upper technology
  • Simplified midsole construction for seamless transitions
  • Certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe with APMA Seal of Acceptance

6. New Balance Womens Fresh Foam Roav V1 Running Shoe Sneaker, Black/light Aluminum, 6.5 Us

Experience the perfect blend of style and comfort with the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav v1 running shoes. These shoes are designed to provide you with the ultimate casual athletic style that is sure to turn heads. The plush cushioning of the Fresh Foam midsole technology delivers a lightweight and ultra-cushioned ride that feels like you're walking or running in the clouds. The precision-engineered midsole is the first of three proprietary technologies featured in these shoes.

The NDurance rubber outsole technology featured in these shoes is designed to provide superior durability in high-wear areas. This makes the shoes perfect for stepping up your game without worrying about wearing them out quickly. The unique Ultra Heel design of these neutral running shoes hugs the back of the foot for a snug and supportive fit. The design works alongside the bootie upper to provide you with all-day comfort.

These lightweight shoes come with a heel-to-toe drop of approximately 8mm. Please note that the reference to 8mm is approximate due to variances created during the development and manufacturing processes. Overall, the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav v1 running shoes are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a stylish and comfortable running shoe that delivers on both style and functionality.

Pros

  • Bold and attractive casual athletic style
  • Fresh Foam midsole technology delivers a lightweight and ultra-cushioned ride
  • NDurance rubber outsole technology provides superior durability in high-wear areas
  • Unique Ultra Heel design hugs the back of the foot for a snug and supportive fit
  • Lightweight shoes with an approximate 8mm heel-to-toe drop

7. New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 1080 V11 Running Shoe, Black/thunder, 10

Experience an ultra-cushioned and lightweight ride with the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning of these shoes. Designed with precision engineering, these shoes deliver optimal comfort and performance. The bootie upper construction is crafted to hug your foot for a snug and supportive fit, ensuring that your feet stay secure and comfortable during any activity. The upper is made with a combination of synthetic and mesh materials, providing a breathable and durable layer to protect your feet. An Ortholite sockliner is also included for additional comfort, ensuring that your feet stay cozy and dry all day long. The Ultra Heel design of these shoes is specifically engineered to hug the back of your foot, offering a secure and supportive fit that ensures your feet stay in place during any activity. Whether you're hitting the gym or exploring new trails, these shoes are a must-have for anyone looking for optimal comfort and performance.

Pros

  • Precision engineered Fresh Foam midsole cushioning for an ultra-cushioned and lightweight ride
  • Bootie upper construction hugs the foot for a snug and supportive fit
  • Synthetic/mesh upper offers breathability and durability
  • Ortholite sockliner provides additional comfort and keeps feet dry
  • Ultra Heel design offers a secure and supportive fit

8. Asics Women's Novablast 2 Le Running Shoes, 10, Deep Plum/barely Rose

Experience the ultimate combination of comfort and support with these Double Engineered Jacquard Mesh Upper shoes. The innovative design ensures maximum breathability, keeping your feet cool even during the most intense activities. The heel stabilizer enhances foot support and balance, creating a more fluid stride. The Gusseted Tongue Wing Fit System ensures a snug midfoot fit, reducing tongue sliding and enhancing overall comfort. The FF BLAST cushioning system is designed to provide lightweight impact absorption and responsive rebound, giving you the perfect bounce for your every step. The trampoline-inspired outsole design is engineered to enhance your overall performance, providing a more responsive bounce back.

Get ready to take your exercise routine to the next level with these shoes that are packed with features to help you achieve your fitness goals. With a combination of innovative materials and smart design features, these shoes provide the perfect blend of style and functionality. Whether you're running, walking, or hitting the gym, these shoes are sure to keep you comfortable and supported every step of the way.

Pros

  • Double Engineered Jacquard Mesh Upper for maximum breathability
  • Heel stabilizer enhances foot support and balance
  • Gusseted Tongue Wing Fit System ensures a snug midfoot fit
  • FF BLAST cushioning system provides lightweight impact absorption and responsive rebound
  • Trampoline-inspired outsole design enhances overall performance

9. Asics Women's Gel-Cumulus 23 Running Shoes, 8, Black/blazing Coral

Experience unparalleled comfort and support with the revolutionary GEL Technology cushioning system of these shoes. The technology provides excellent shock absorption, allowing you to move with ease and confidence. The gender-specific 3D SPACE CONSTRUCTION design addresses different compression rates at footstrike per gender, ensuring that you get the right amount of support where you need it most.

Made with an engineered mesh upper, these shoes are breathable and durable. The upper wraps around your foot, providing a snug and comfortable fit. The reflective accents on the shoes improve visibility in low-light conditions, making them a great option for early morning or evening runs.

The FLYTEFOAM Technology of these shoes provides lightweight cushioning, making them ideal for extended periods of use. Whether you're running a marathon or just running errands, these shoes will keep you comfortable and supported every step of the way.

Pros

  • GEL Technology cushioning system provides excellent shock absorption
  • Gender-specific 3D SPACE CONSTRUCTION design addresses different compression rates per gender
  • Engineered mesh upper is breathable and durable
  • Reflective accents improve visibility in low-light conditions
  • FLYTEFOAM Technology provides lightweight cushioning

10. Quincy Plantar Fasciitis Shoes For Women

Orthofeet Shoes offer guaranteed comfort, with millions of people considering them the most comfortable orthotic shoes. With a risk-free trial, you can try them and walk comfortably and pain-free or get your money back. Orthofeet orthotic shoes offer the ultimate footwear solution for those who suffer from plantar fasciitis, foot pain, knee pain, flat feet, and more.

The orthotic insoles are adjustable with an arch booster and multiple cushioning layers, providing soft, pillow-like support that helps ease the pain on the foot and heel, knees, hips, and lower back. The lightweight ergonomic soles with a mild rocker design and superior cushioning enhance stability, improve ease of walking, and add spring to your step. With a variety of widths and two fitting spacers, you can get the perfect fit.

If you have sensitive feet, diabetes, arthritis, neuropathy, or other foot conditions, the non-binding and flexible uppers with extra foam padding and seam-free fabric interior ease pressure on the foot and provide superior comfort and protection. The wide toe-box offers extra room for toe movement and alleviates pressure on bunions and hammertoes. They are also orthotic-friendly, with removable insoles that provide ample space for custom-made orthotics.

With a wide and roomy toe-box and extra depth design, these shoes offer a comfortable, non-binding fit for the front part of the foot and toes, easing pressure on bunions, hammertoes, Morton’s Neuroma, and swollen feet. Get the ultimate comfort and solution for your foot conditions with Orthofeet Shoes.

Pros

  • Guaranteed comfort with a risk-free trial
  • Ultimate footwear solution for various foot conditions
  • Adjustable orthotic insoles with arch booster and multiple cushioning layers
  • Lightweight ergonomic soles with mild rocker design and superior cushioning for stability and ease of walking
  • Non-binding and flexible uppers with extra foam padding and seam-free fabric interior for sensitive feet
  • Wide toe-box for extra room and alleviating pressure on bunions and hammertoes
  • Orthotic-friendly with removable insoles

Best Running Shoes For Lower Back Pain And Plantar Fasciitis FAQs

Are there any other factors, such as arch support or cushioning, that should be considered when selecting running shoes for lower back pain and plantar fasciitis?

Yes, there are several other factors to consider when selecting running shoes for lower back pain and plantar fasciitis. Arch support is crucial for individuals with plantar fasciitis, as it helps to distribute weight evenly across the foot and prevent the arch from collapsing. In addition, cushioning is also important as it helps to absorb shock and reduce the impact on the joints, including the lower back. It is also important to select shoes that are specifically designed for running, as they provide adequate support and stability for the foot during high-impact activities. Other factors to consider include the fit of the shoe, as a proper fit can help to prevent blisters and other injuries, and the weight of the shoe, as heavier shoes can place additional strain on the joints. Ultimately, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional or a certified running specialist to determine the best shoe for your individual needs and foot type.

Are there specific brands of running shoes that are known to be effective in reducing lower back pain and plantar fasciitis?

Yes, there are specific brands of running shoes that are known to be effective in reducing lower back pain and plantar fasciitis. In fact, many running shoe manufacturers have developed shoes that are specifically designed to address these types of issues. Some of the most popular brands include Brooks, Asics, New Balance, Saucony, and Nike. These brands offer a variety of features that can help reduce the impact on your lower back and feet while running, such as extra cushioning, arch support, and motion control. It's important to note that everyone's feet and biomechanics are different, so what works for one person may not work for another. It's recommended to visit a specialty running store and have a professional analyze your gait and recommend the best shoe for your individual needs.

Can wearing the wrong type of running shoes exacerbate lower back pain and plantar fasciitis?

Yes, wearing the wrong type of running shoes can exacerbate lower back pain and plantar fasciitis. Running shoes are designed to provide support, cushioning, and stability to the feet and lower body during physical activity. However, if the shoes are not properly fitted to the individual's foot type, running style, and specific foot conditions, it can lead to discomfort and even injuries.

In the case of lower back pain, shoes that lack proper arch support can cause the feet to overpronate or supinate, leading to improper alignment of the lower body and increased stress on the lower back. Similarly, shoes that are too stiff or lack cushioning can exacerbate plantar fasciitis, a condition that causes inflammation and pain in the plantar fascia ligament in the foot.

To prevent these issues, it is recommended to get properly fitted for running shoes by a professional, and choose shoes that provide adequate support and cushioning for the individual's specific needs. Additionally, incorporating stretches and exercises to strengthen the feet and lower body can help alleviate pain and prevent future injuries.

How do running shoes designed for lower back pain and plantar fasciitis differ from regular running shoes?

Running shoes designed for lower back pain and plantar fasciitis differ from regular running shoes in several ways. Firstly, they offer more support and cushioning to the foot and heel. This helps to absorb shock and prevent excess pressure on the feet and lower back. Secondly, they have a more rigid sole and arch support, which helps to keep the foot stable and prevent overpronation (rolling inward) or supination (rolling outward). Thirdly, they may have a wider toe box to accommodate any foot deformities or conditions, such as bunions or hammertoes. Additionally, they may have a unique design that focuses on specific areas of the foot or lower back, such as a heel cup or an orthotic insert. Overall, running shoes designed for lower back pain and plantar fasciitis are tailored to meet the unique needs of those with these conditions, providing the necessary support and cushioning to prevent pain and discomfort during exercise.

What are the best features to look for in running shoes to alleviate lower back pain and plantar fasciitis?

When it comes to choosing running shoes that can help alleviate lower back pain and plantar fasciitis, there are several features that you should consider. First and foremost, make sure that the shoes provide adequate arch support. This can help reduce the stress on your plantar fascia, preventing or easing plantar fasciitis pain. Look for shoes with a firm and supportive midsole that can absorb shock and provide stability.

Additionally, choose shoes with a durable and thick outsole that can provide good traction and help with shock absorption. This can help reduce the impact of each stride and reduce the stress on your lower back. A breathable and lightweight upper can also be beneficial, as it can keep your feet cool and reduce sweating.

It's also important to choose shoes that fit well and feel comfortable. Consider trying on shoes in the afternoon or evening when your feet are slightly swollen, and make sure there is enough room in the toe box to wiggle your toes. Finally, consider visiting a specialty running store to get fitted for shoes that are tailored to your specific foot shape and running style.

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