16 Best Running Shoes For Shin Splints (Review) In 2022

- 1. ASICS Women’s GEL Venture 5 Running Shoes For Shin Splints
- 2. Saucony Women’s Cohesion 10 Running Shoes For Shin Splints
- 3. Salomon Men’s Speedcross 4 Running Shoes For Shin Splints
- 4. ASICS Men’s GEL Nimbus 18
- 5. Merrell Men’s Vapor Glove 2
- 6. Brooks Women’s Launch 4
- 9. ASICS Women’s GEL Kayano 25
- 10. Brooks Women’s Ravenna 9
- 11. Mizuno Men’s Wave Inspire 13
- 12. New Balance Men’s M940v3
- 13. Mizuno Men’s Wave Inspire 14
- 14. Saucony Men’s Zealot Iso 2
- 15. On Running Men’s Cloud Mesh
- 16. Nike Men’s Air Zoom Vomero 13
- 17. Nike Men’s Air Zoom Vomero 11
- 18. HOKA ONE ONE Men’s Clifton 4
If you have high arches, shin splints are a constant worry, and they can ruin your exercise routine almost as badly as ankle or calf injuries can. While there are a few shin splints treatments you can explore to get you back to full strength, you can also go a step beyond this and find running shoes which do everything they can to prevent shin splints altogether. The best running shoes for shin splints are designed to avoid shin splints before they occur by providing vital support and keep you hitting the streets every day whether you’re training for a marathon or just trying to stay in shape.
The Best Running Shoe For Shin Splints
1. ASICS Women’s GEL Venture 5 Running Shoes For Shin Splints

High abrasion rubber sole
Neutral runner in mesh
GEL cushioning system
Removable sockliner
Our top pick for the best running shoes for shin splints is the ASICS Women’s GEL Venture 5 which boast a high abrasion rubber sole for consistent tread and stability, while the GEL cushioning system, which is unique to ASICS shoes provides comfort on hard ground.
Inside, there’s a removable sockliner for orthopedic demands, and the arch support is some of the best around. They can be a little inflexible at first, but once they’re thoroughly broken in, you can hit the streets with confidence, entirely pain-free. Make sure you also check our guide to the best running shoes for wide feet.
Excellent tread
Lightweight
Not bulky
Don’t bend too well
2. Saucony Women’s Cohesion 10 Running Shoes For Shin Splints

Heel grid system
Breathable
Plush tongue and collar
GRID injection molded EVA
Those looking for excellent value in their running shoes should stop right here and check out the Saucony Women’s Cohesion 10. They’re great for high arches, while the wide toe box eliminates the risk of cramping during longer sessions.
The heel grid system provides traction, and the plush tongue and collar provide comfort around the top of the food, while the rest of the shoe provides an ideal amount of padding. They may be cheap, but this isn’t a bad thing, and they are still a marvelous pair of running shoes for shin splints. Check out our buying guide with running shoes for wide feet for more specialized running gear.
Excellent price
Comfortable
Ideal amount of padding
Colors don’t match pictures
3. Salomon Men’s Speedcross 4 Running Shoes For Shin Splints

Aggressive grip
Precise foothold
Lightweight cushioning
Stable
With aggressive grip and a precise foothold, the Salomon Men’s Speedcross 4 is perfect for keeping you stable on the track, road, or trail and is the ideal option for unsteady terrain where injuries occur more than anywhere else.
The no-nonsense design provides these shoes mean business with no need for fancy features or pretty colors, a true man’s shoe, if that’s what you’re after. It is also comfortable and well-built, too, which is excellent for those tackling less-than-trustworthy environments at the weekends, however, the narrow toe box means they aren’t as suitable for wide feet as other options. Our handy guide to the best cross country spikes features more great products like this.
Suitable for unsteady terrain
Well built
Comfortable
A little too narrow for wide feet
4. ASICS Men’s GEL Nimbus 18

FluidRide bounceback
Rear and Forefoot GEL cushioning
Stretch mesh
Heel clutching technology
The ASICS Men’s GEL Nimbus 18 is an excellent shoe for preventing and treating injuries including shin splints but also plantar fasciitis. It achieves this through the dynamic FluidRide bounceback which combines smartly with the GEL cushioning to provide a running experience that won’t end in tears.
The stretch mesh conforms to your foot shape, and the roomy toe box prevents cramping. It also boasts seamless construction, which aside from being cool to look at, prevents stitching abrasion for better comfort. It’s a little heavier than other shoes we’ve selected, but for less intense activities, they are pretty much perfect.
Seamless construction
Glove-like fit
Roomy toe box
Heavier than other running shoes
5. Merrell Men’s Vapor Glove 2

Low profile
Vibram outsole
Lace-up vamp
Breathable
The Merrell Men’s Vapor Glove 2 boasts a low profile for a lightweight feel while the sticky Vibram outsole provides superb traction across the road or track. They are easy to wear, with a pull tab that ensures they’re easy to put on.
Our favorite feature is the way it molds to your foot, ensuring it fits like a – well – glove, but still provide the crucial breathability needed for long runs, and even short ones, too. The durability is a slight concern and we wouldn’t recommend them for trail running, but if you’re sticking to the track or the street, they should last long enough. Love this product? Check out our review of the best running shoes for underpronation for our top picks.
Pull tab
Molds to foot shape
Easy to put on and take off
Not as durable as we’d like
6. Brooks Women’s Launch 4

Balanced cushioning
Smooth ride
Stable
Secure fit
If you want a pair of trainers which provides excellent cushioning and one of the smoothest rides around, the Brooks Women’s Launch 4 will propel you into another realm of running satisfaction. Immediately, you’re drawn to the stylish but not too garish design, with neutral colors, which is a refreshing change from running shoes of the past.
It’s about more than looks, though, and this provides a stable experience and a secure fit, although the arch support is a little lacking, it still feels there’s enough to prevent shin splints. It also helps they’re lightweight, as this reduces the pressure on your feet during longer runs.
Lightweight
Neutral colors
Comfortable
Not enough arch support
9. ASICS Women’s GEL Kayano 25

IGS technology
Enhanced gait efficiency
GEL cushioning
FluidRide bounceback
The ASICS Women’s GEL Kayano 25 is one of the best shoes for shin splints you will find. It uses Impact Guidance System technology to improve your natural gait, which puts you at less risk of injury and increases energy transfer during your run, and the FluidRide bounceback system – a staple of ASICS shoes – is ever present to deliver optimal performance when needed.
It is lightweight and durable, while the shock impact design ensures minimized problems with shin splints by limiting potential pressure. However, there’s a few problems with the arch support, which is one of the main things to look for, but only if you’ve got high arches. Don’t forget to also check our guide to the best zero drop running shoes.
Reduced weight
Durable
Shock impact
Lacking arch support
10. Brooks Women’s Ravenna 9

Provides stability
Breathable
Moisture management
Padded interior
For a stable running experience, the Brooks Women’s Ravenna 9 is one of the best around and is an excellent choice for those who struggle with overpronation. It provides a secure, reliable fit you can trust, while the padded interior ensures the comfort you may struggle to find elsewhere.
Also breathable, with special moisture management technology, you can feel the breeze in your toes whether you’re running through city streets or across a coastal sidewalk. The toe box might feel a little too narrow for wide feet, and they don’t stretch or conform how other shoes do, but if you’ve got slim feet and want to treat your feet, why not give these a try?
Supports overpronation
Lightweight
Secure fit
Narrow toe box
11. Mizuno Men’s Wave Inspire 13

Maximum support
No stiffness
Better cushioning
Responsive and durable ride
The Mizuno Men’s Wave Inspire 13 is an inspirational pair of shoes that has zero stiffness even straight out the box while also providing some of the finest cushioning around. This is ideal for those who don’t have the time to break their shoes in and guarantees remarkable comfort regardless of whether you’re going on a long run or a short one.
You can feel assured you’ll get a responsive ride, and the upper and outsoles are durable enough for long, consistent use. They aren’t the most stylish shoe we’ve ever found, but when you’re running that fast, no one will notice. You may also like to check our guide to the best trail running shoes for women.
Lightweight
Breathable
Long-lasting design
Not the most stylish running shoe around
12. New Balance Men’s M940v3

Removable insole
Breathable
Cushioned sole
Excellent transition
If you run a lot (like every day a lot), the New Balance Men’s M940v3 is the perfect shoe for you. It is breathable, it’s cushioned, and it provides excellent transition you must experience to believe.
Inside, you’ll get fantastic arch support to ease the risk of splints, while the flexible material ensures easy running on both flat and sloped surfaces. There seems to be a couple of issues with the instep comfort, but with removable insoles, you should be able to fix this if you have any problems.
Wide toe box
Good arch support
Flexible
Some issues with instep comfort
13. Mizuno Men’s Wave Inspire 14

Airmesh upper
Flexible support
Extra arch support
Cushioned midsole
Boasting flexible support and comfortable ventilation, the Mizuno Men’s Wave Inspire 14 will make it feel as if you’re riding waves of success through the streets and into the future. The airmesh upper provides breathability and a lightweight feel, cushioned midsole provides smooth transitions.
It wins most of its points with the extra arch support, though, providing support where you need it most. Those unused to Mizuno shoes may feel a little weird adjusting to the high drop design, but this should pass soon enough. If you are into running, make sure you also check our guide to the best running headlamps.
Relieves running motion stress
Smooth transitions
Well ventilated
High drop could take some getting used to
14. Saucony Men’s Zealot Iso 2

Flexible fit
Shock absorbing
Low cut design
Tri-Flex force dispersion
For fantastic shock absorption, the Saucony Men’s Zealot Iso 2 is the shoe you’ve been looking for. This is made possible with the Tri-Flex force dispersion, something you won’t find anywhere else to protect your feet, shins, and knees on hard ground.
The low-cut design may not offer support as high-topped shoes do, but it makes up for it with a cushioned interior. However, it will run a size too small, so be careful which item you select.
Natural offset
Lightweight and durable
Highly cushioned
Runs a size too small
15. On Running Men’s Cloud Mesh

Bungee speed lace system
Heel adapts to your foot
Snug fit
Increased grip pads
The On Running Men’s Cloud Mesh is a highly convenient shoe you may not have heard of before but will be happy we introduced you to. The bungee lace system is secure, and the heel works to adapt to your foot for a secure and personalized fit.
Increased grip pads on the sole give you greater traction, making it a great candidate for any terrain, but its durability raises a few concerns, so maybe it’s best to stick to the streets for now until On Running make some improvements. Love these shoes? Check out our review of the best trail running shoes for men.
Suitable for all terrains
Comfortable
Lightweight
Not very durable
16. Nike Men’s Air Zoom Vomero 13

Supportive lockdown
Plush cushioning
Durable traction
Secure fit
If durability is one of your main concerns, the Nike Men’s Air Zoom Vomero 13 has it in abundance. The traction is built to last and doesn’t pick up rocks, but unlike other long-lasting options, it doesn’t feel too bulky to wear on your workout.
This is a good job, too, as it’s too comfortable to let it waste away in a shoe cupboard, although anyone who’s worn previous models may feel an increase in weight, so if you like your running shoes to feel you’re wearing nothing at all, there are better options available.
Ideal for running or walking
Stable
Tread doesn’t pick up rocks
Redesigned upper feels heavier than previous models
17. Nike Men’s Air Zoom Vomero 11

Flexible segmented rubber
Impact cushioning
Efficient stride
Mesh upper
The Nike Men’s Air Zoom Vomero 11 is one of those shoes which you will always remember regardless of new advancements made (see above). The flexible rubber simplifies your running, and impact cushioning is the perfect partner for hard roads.
Most wearers comment on how well it fits, but only if you’ve got slim feet. If you’re style conscious, it comes in sharp, stylish colors that will make you the talk of the track which is a good or bad thing depending on your personality. Be sure to also check out our list of the best neutral running shoes for more great items like this.
Breathable
Good fit
Sharp stylish colors
Not available in wide fits
18. HOKA ONE ONE Men’s Clifton 4

Smooth heel transition
Signature cushioning
Breathable
Supportive
The final pick in our search for the best running shoes for shin splints is the HOKA ONE ONE Men’s Clifton 4 which is a brand less experienced runners may not have heard of, but this takes nothing away from its quality.
The color schemes offer a fresh take on classic runners, but it’s the transition we’re really excited about. The heel to toe movement is smooth, while signature cushioning provides that blissful comfort you’ve been searching for. They also reduce the impact on your knees, putting less pressure on your legs and ensuring you survive without shin splints for another day.
Stylish design
Consistent comfort
Reduces impact on knees
Tread may separate too quickly
Running Shoe For Shin Splints Buying Guide & FAQ
How We Chose Our Selection Of Running Shoes For Shin Splints
Luckily, no one here at Shoe Hero has suffered from shin splints recently, and as much as we consider ourselves dedicated, we weren’t about to go out and purposely give ourselves shin splints. Instead, we looked at these 3 factors to help us make our selection. You can always check out our buying guide with best books for running to motivate yourself and read about other people's experiences and how they overcame their challenges.
Brands - We all know the top running shoe brands, and there are almost so many that it’s a challenge to include everyone. These brands ooze quality and style, so not only will they serve you well on the road, track, or trail, we’ve also made sure you’ll look on your run, too.
Reviews - We were lucky enough to not suffer from shin splints while we put together this list, but from the reviews we studied, others weren’t so fortunate. At least their suffering wasn’t in vain, though, and through their reviews, we discovered which of the many, many running shoes available provide the best support, comfort, stability, and shock absorption for treating shin splints.
Price - Top quality running shoes aren’t the cheapest products around, but when it’s a choice between being in pain for the rest of your life or spending a little more than you typically would, we’re sure you’ll take splashing the cash every time.
Despite this, we still want to appeal to everybody’s budget, because shin splints affect not only those with the fanciest footwear, so you’ll find a wide range of prices that will appeal to all our readers.
Features To Look For In Running Shoes For Shin Splints
Before picking your running shoes based solely (ha) on how cool they look or how sweet the name sounds, check out these essential key features to consider so you can find the right shoes for you.
Shock Absorption - For avoiding shin splints, shock absorption is the biggest thing to consider. Because shin splints usually occur from running on hard roads, minimizing the impact is a must for preventing them. Running shoes with excellent shock absorption are the first thing you should look for.
Stability - Shin splints can also happen because of overpronation, which is when the leg and ankle bends during your run, as it puts too much pressure on one leg. Running shoes that provide excellent stability will also help to prevent shin splints by keeping your feet and ankles in place during your run and minimizing the chance of overpronation.
Comfort - There are few things worse than an uncomfortable run, and proper trainers for shin splints will at least ease some pain if you can’t help but ignore doctor's orders and common sense and hit the streets. Comfort is a necessity regardless of whether you suffer from shin splints or not, though, so even when you’re back to full fitness, you can remain comfortable on your runs.
Support - Shin splints can also come from inadequate arch support, especially if you have high arches. Finding running shoes with excellent support both in the arches and around the ankle and heel will stave off shin splints for a little longer and keep you running when all others have fallen by the wayside. Specially designed shoes for high arches are one of the best options for dealing with this problem.
Durability - The longer your running shoes last, the better chance you have of avoiding shin splints. Old, battered running shoes do not provide the same level of support, stability, comfort, or shock absorption as new pairs do, and shoes that aren’t durable enough to handle your routine will fall apart quicker and increase the risk of shin splints.
We know it’s easy to become attached to your favorite running shoes, but if you want to avoid injury it’s always best to let go when the time is right.
Exercises For Shin Splints
You might be one of the lucky ones who never experience shin splints, but if not, there are treatments and exercises you can try to recover.
- Stop running altogether
- Ice your shin to reduce inflammation
- Stretch your calves for anterior shin splints and Achilles for medial
- Kneel with toes tucked under your feet
- Lean back on your hands with your shins below your thighs
- Low lunges
- Calf raises
- Hip raises with heel pull (3 sets of 10)
- Forearm plank for 45 seconds and repeat twice
- Balance on one leg until you tiring
- Pigeon stretch for one minute each leg
If you feel you can still run (or have no choice), you can also reduce your running intensity and buy insoles for shin splints to mitigate the pain and further damage. However, we’d only recommend this in extreme circumstances.
Running Shoe For Shin Splints FAQ
Q: What are shin splints?
A: Shin splints are a severe pain in (where else?) your shins and are often caused by running on hard surfaces such as roads. If you’re a beginner runner, you are more likely to suffer from shin splints than more experienced athletes, but no one is immune to them.
There are two types of shin splints you could suffer from; anterior shin splints, which affect the front of the leg, and medial shin splints, which cause pain around the inside of the leg.
Typically, it occurs from trying to go too hard too quickly, and the extra pressure you put on your body causes shin splints to rear their ugly head. But other causes include overpronation, inadequate stretching, incorrect or insufficient running shoes, and too much stress on one leg.
While shin splints are similar to stress fractures, you feel shin splints across a wider area of the leg compared to stress fracture, so before you start your treatment, assess where the pain is localized on the leg. If there is a sharp pain in one area, it’s more likely a stress fracture. Wider pain is considered shin splints.
Sources:
- Shin Splints - Runners World
- 8 Exercises to Reduces Shin Splint Pain - ACTIVE
- 7 Ways to Prevent Shin Splints - Very Well Fit