Best Women’s Running Shoes for Back Pain
Back pain can be the result of a variety of different causes. Sports injuries, repetitive stress injuries, genetic reasons, sitting all day, and many other issues, including plantar fasciitis, can contribute to both foot pain and back pain. If back pain has been ongoing for more than a week, seems to be getting worse, or is causing pain or numbness to other parts of the body, it is best to consult a healthcare practitioner.
Choosing the best women’s running shoes for back pain is going to depend on a number of different factors, and again, it is best to talk to a healthcare practitioner to see if there are specific features one should be looking for in a running shoe or walking shoe before making a purchase.
Here, we have taken a look at five of the best women’s running shoes for back pain, breaking down key specifications so the selection process and shopping experience will be that much easier.
Asics Women’s GEL-Venture 5
Customers who walk or run on trails have reviewed these shoes as outstanding. For those walking specifically to relieve back pain, this could be the ideal shoe, especially if the preferred surface is rugged and natural trail-like terrain. One of the main issues that could negatively impact back pain is the shoe’s reported inability to maintain traction on wet or slippery surfaces.
Although Runners Choice declares that this women’s running shoe has “awesome traction,” they note that it is only an ideal choice for those running on trails. They mention specifically that this shoe may not provide ample traction on wet, slippery rocks. They also highlight the newly designed midsole and state that this shoe performs well on tight turns, meaning that the ankle support will be good, preventing roll-overs.
Pros
- Designed as a stability shoe
- Removable sock liner for orthotic insertion
- Durable rubber sole, designed for high abrasion
- Ideal for trail running and walking
- Machine washable
- Protective toe box bumper at front of shoe
- Available in a variety of colors
- Rearfoot gel cushioning provides extra comfort
Cons
- Sole and upper tend to be inflexible
- Reports of slips on wet or flat surfaces
- Lacks flexibility for arch support
Design
This women’s shoe is reasonably priced and is known in the running world as a high-quality, high-performance sneaker. They are incredibly sturdy and have deep lugs for stability and shock absorption, making them great for heavier athletes.
Additionally, the Asics High Abrasion Resistant (AHAR) rubber outsole is designed to decrease abrasion and increase the life of the shoe. This resistance to cracking and breaking, which also contributes to the excellent stability of this shoe, is exactly what detracts from its flexibility, which is integral for those who need arch support in their shoe.
For consumers looking for a stable shoe and who will be running or walking on rugged terrain, this may be a great option. It is specifically designed for transitioning between movements, which means that support is prioritized, but in turn, they are less flexible. High stability with low flexibility makes them great for specific consumers, but not for all.
Specifications
Sole measurement: 1.25”
Platform: 1”
Upper: Synthetic, breathable mesh
Midsole: EVA Foam
Outsole: AHAR rubber
Width: Normal Wide
Heel to Toe Drop: 10mm
Weight: 247g
This is an amazing shoe for those who need heel and ankle support and walk or run on rugged terrain. It is reasonably priced and comes in a variety of colors. Those looking for arch support or need a shoe that performs on slick or wet surfaces should consider more suitable options.
Hoka One One Women’s Arahi Running Shoe
Arahi is classified as a moderate stability trainer, which means they are designed with support in mind, especially in the arch area. Hoka One is a brand known for its big yet lightweight soles, as well as providing more cushioning than many of its competitors.
There are some innovations in the midsole for support, such as the J-Frame technology, which corrects pronation (or the turning in of feet and ankles), and Meta-Rocker technology, aiming to ensure a natural stride.
Some reviewers have noted that because of these and other features, there may be a period of adjustment when initially wearing these shoes. Also, there have been reports of tightness in some areas and intermittent feelings of instability.
Pros
- Lighter, more breathable mesh upper than previous models
- Flexible and durable upper
- Corrects pronation with J-Frame technology
- Meta-Rocker technology aids natural stride
- Moderately priced
Cons
- Minimal cushioning around heel collar and tongue
- Not for those who have supination of the feet
- Reports of poor traction on wet surfaces
Design
According to Hoka’s site, the Hoka One One Arahi RMAT midsole material “provides guided stability and durability in key wear areas.” The material is meant to provide better rebound, durability, and grip. Many users have found that this material, as it is designed for durability, can require some time to get used to.
There is also a midsole feature called the J-Frame, so named because it runs down the foot’s inner side and wraps around the heel. This is meant to cradle the foot more naturally and correct over-pronation or the rolling inward of the ankles and feet.
The sole also features Meta-Rocker geometry, designed to create a smooth roll from impact to toe-off, providing greater shock absorption, supporting a natural running gait, and increasing stride efficiency. Despite this, some reviewers have reported poor traction on wet surfaces.
Specifications
Upper: Synthetic, breathable mesh
Outsole: Rubber
Midsole: RMAT technology to provide durability
Width: Available in wide or regular
Heel to Toe Drop: 5mm
Weight: 227g
These shoes will be wonderful for a very specific user who experiences pronation of the feet and needs only moderate arch support. Heavier athletes have also reported less joint pain due to the large yet lightweight sole and extra supportive cushioning.
This is a cushioning shoe that is designed with the budget-conscious user in mind. It features AmpliFoam technology, a low-weight, highly durable material that adds to the shoe’s comfort by working with all 33 joints in the foot.
At just under 10oz, this is an entry-level running shoe on the lighter side and features a smaller heel-to-toe drop than many other entry-level shoes. Additionally, the heel includes Asics’ well-known GEL technology, which provides extra comfort.
Pros
- Lightweight shoe with superior cushioning
- Smaller heel-to-toe drop than most entry-level shoes
- Flexible, breathable jacquard mesh upper
- Ortholite sock liner for microbial control
- Good traction on a variety of surfaces
- Very affordable
Cons
- Not as supportive as some more expensive shoes
- Not suitable for those who will be running or walking very long distances
- Not as durable in the long term
Design
The GEL-Excite 6 is made for neutral pronation. It features the GEL cushioning in the heel area for maximum comfort and rebound. There is also the Ortholite sock liner for antimicrobial foot health and the AmpliFoam technology in the sole for increased comfort and durability. As this is an entry-level shoe, it is fairly paired down, without many bells and whistles.
Specifications
Upper: Breathable, jacquard mesh
Outsole: Rubber
Midsole: AmpliFoam technology for increased comfort
Width: Standard
Heel to Toe Drop: 8mm
Weight: 283g
These shoes are wonderful for users who do not have many concerning issues with their feet or major musculoskeletal issues. They are affordable and comfortable, day-to-day shoes. This shoe is a good choice for users looking for a basic option for daily wear. It is not ideal for walking or running long-distance or for rugged hiking or running terrain.
Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 8
This is a sneaker that is light enough and flexible enough to wear all day. Runners who have tested it have deemed it a great shoe for road running. The responsiveness of the sole has been said to be top-quality, even with this lower-priced shoe.
Versatility is another quality that many users have noted in this shoe. Running, walking, and wear for casual purposes are all activities this shoe’s design can handle. The color scheme makes this a neutral shoe. The insole is comfortable with enough cushioning for all-day outings, providing the user does not suffer from any underlying musculoskeletal issues.
Pros
- Versatile, casual look
- Very affordable
- Light and flexible
- Effective shock absorption for longer road running sessions
Cons
- Lack of arch support
- Some durability issues with the upper toe box section
- Some irritation on the inner, upper section reported
- Not recommended for trail use
Design
The Under Armour Charged Asset 8 has Charged Cushioning technology that runs the entire length of the midsole. This midsole technology is both plush and durable and can return energy to the athlete as they are running or walking.
The rubber outsole features both deeper and shallower flex grooves between the midfoot and forefoot. This is to provide the greatest amount of flexibility to ensure a healthy, natural stride.
This shoe, like many other women’s running shoes, has a mesh upper. The design is meant to hold the foot in place, preventing wobbling while also allowing the foot to breathe. Leather accents are sewn onto the mesh upper and added around the toe box for visual appeal. It also provides extra stability and protects the foot from protruding objects that may be encountered on a run or during daily use.
Specifications
Arch Support: Neutral
Heel to Toe Drop: 10mm
Upper: Mesh with leather accents
Outsole: Solid rubber and ground contact foam
Midsole: Compression-molded Charged Cushioning technology
Weight: 231g
This is a great shoe for those with a flat foot who require minimal arch support and the consumer is looking for something lightweight and affordable. The upper is somewhat supportive, and the sole does what it is made to do. The shoe does not provide a large amount of support or cushioning for those experiencing pronation or supination or have very specific foot support goals that need to be met.
This product is designed specifically as a women’s running shoe, with a style in mind focused on the younger demographic. That’s not to say it’s not a practical choice for women of any age, as it has many features that can be beneficial for back, joint, and foot pain.
The shoe is available in a wide range of colors, speaking again to the fact that it has been designed with style in mind. Functional design features include pull tabs on the heel and tongue to help put it on and extra lace holes for a tighter fit.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Flexible sole
- Breathable
- Stylish
- Very affordable
- Comfortable
- Versatile
- Good for everyday wear
Cons
- Not overly supportive
- Some users found the shoe fit too wide
- Not designed for serious running, walking, or hiking
- Not slip-resistant
- Limited arch support
Design
This is a minimalist sneaker designed with the younger customer in mind. It isn’t particularly supportive or remedial of joint or back pain. However, some users have found that issues like plantar fasciitis, knee and heel pain were alleviated while wearing this shoe.
Adidas’ Cloudfoam technology provides a comfortable, spongy feel to the sole of the shoe. It can be used for casual, everyday wear. The lower price point is also something to take into consideration.
Specifications
Platform: 0-3”
Upper: Breathable mesh and knitted material
Midsole: Cloudfoam memory foam
Outsole: Rubber with Cloudfoam memory foam
Width: Normal wide
Consumers looking for a stylish, minimalist shoe option, who are not overly concerned with arch support, swear by this shoe for daily use. It is popular with people who do shift work on their feet, like nurses. Still, for those participating in serious hiking, walking, or running or who need significant foot support, there are more suitable options to consider.
These shoes were designed with style and basic comfort in mind, and they meet these goals. For those in the market for more supportive or corrective footwear, there are much better products available.
Conclusion
Back pain can be a debilitating issue for anyone, from a trained athlete to an average woman who enjoys running or walking. Footwear and back pain can be distinctly related, so choosing an appropriate running shoe is important. Remember to seek expert advice for persistent pain and invest in specific shoe features that can support your overall foot and back health.
