In Greek mythology, Achilles was a mighty and an undefeated warrior of the Trojan War. He was powerful and indestructible, but had only one weakness, his Achilles heels, and thus the name.
Achilles met his death, when Paris, a Trojan prince ambushed him and shot an arrow that Apollo, the Greek god, guided to his heels. But what does this analogy have to do with shoes and the like?
The Achilles heels a vulnerable part of the body, and adequate protection and care are necessary to safeguard it. Achilles tendon is one of the longest, and it can damage easily, and make walking difficult. But how can you damage the muscle?
Achilles tendonitis may be a common condition among runners and athletes. However, that does not mean that the rest of the folks are safe. It can hit anyone at any time.
The characteristic feature of Achilles tendonitis is an annoying pain in the heels that do not go away smoothly. As a result, it can affect active walking, and even render you immobile for some time.
However, you can prevent the condition, and even treat it effectively with the right footwear. And since it is not every shoe available on the market is sufficient for Achilles tendonitis, how the hell can you find the right pair?
We try to impart some wisdom on buying the best shoes for Achilles tendonitis by discussing a few pointers that may aid in your decision-making process. We also suggest a handful of pairs and that we think are the best in the market. Enjoy the read!Best Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis (Reviews)
ASICS Men's Gel Nimbus 20 Trail Running Shoe
In the following Asics gel nimbus 20 reviews, we are going to highlight a few points on what makes these running shoes some of the best shoes for Achilles tendonitis.
For starters, the design of the shoe is low top arch. It is not too high or too low to aggravate the condition. Furthermore, the trail running shoes incorporate FlyteFoam midsole technology to provide the best shock absorption and comfort. The responsiveness and bounce back that you get from the midsole is appropriate for you during the recovery process.
And unlike lower-density foams that you get from various types of footwear on the market, the midsole in this one together with other cushioning features provide adequate shock absorption for your recovering heels.
The textile material is another feature that we love on these running shoes. It makes them breathable and comfortable, especially for runners. Getting Achilles tendonitis does not mean you shouldn't work for long distances or even jog mildly. You are free to exercise, but you also need a breathable shoe for optimal comfort.
What we like
- The low top arch which is appropriate for people suffering from Achilles tendonitis;
- Midsole technology that provides sufficient shock absorption and foot comfort;
- It is lightweight and comfortable;
- Breathable textile material upper.
What we don't like
- Some people don't find it comfortable on the Achilles tendon;
- Also, the sizing may be off.
Orthofeet Comfortable Diabetic Achilles Tendonitis Foot Heel Pain - 410 Walking Shoes for Men
If you have a recent diagnosis of Achilles tendonitis, then your choice of footwear should not be far off this product. It is one of the best to offer support and adequate shock absorption to ensure full recovery and prevent further aggravation of the inflamed Achilles tendon.
The orthotic insole is a source of comfort and heel support that you need for recovery. It conforms to the contours of the foot to prevent pain that may come from the condition. The air cushioning system provides adequate shock absorption and adds some spring to your step. It is pleasurable to walk in these shoes.
You will also find that the shoe has a wide toe box and sufficient room in terms of height to minimize pressure on the foot.
What we like
An orthotic insole that conforms to the contours of the foot to provide the best shock absorption and comfort
An air cushioning system that also adds some right amount of spring in your steps for a pleasurable walking
A full toe box and upper depth design to minimize pressure on the toes
Designed to be comfortable for those having several foot conditions such as bunions and others
What you don't like
They are not quite attractive
ASICS Women's GT-2000 4 Running Shoe
The Asics gt 2000 4 women's is one type of show that we love because of the way it looks. It is quite a spectacle, and stylish to wear for the morning jog.
In terms of functionality, the running shoe doesn't do too bad. It incorporates duomax stabilizing system to make it comfortable as you make various foot movements such as running and jogging.
Furthermore, the gel cushioning system on the forefoot and the rear foot is a source of additional protection and Shock absorption that you require during the healing process.
What we like
- It makes use of duomax stabilizing system for comfort when running or jogging
- The forefoot and rearfoot gel cushioning system to provide excellent shock absorption
- The footwear is lightweight and comfortable
- It is also easy to wear
What we don't like
- The running shoes may not be very durable
Brooks Men's Ghost 10
What we love most about the Brooks Men's Ghost 10 is the adequate cushioning that the shoe boasts the combination of high energizing cushioning and medium to high arch support Makes it among the most appropriate for recovering Achilles tendonitis.
We also love the mesh upper that we feel adds some reasonable level of breathability to the shoe. As such, it is a comfortable shoe that you can use on your morning jog or other low-intensity exercises.
Other sources of comfort and shock absorption include the tongue and collar.
What we like
Medium to high arch support
The footwear is lightweight
High energizing cushioning to provide adequate shock absorption and comfort
A breathable mesh upper material
What we don't like
The soles are not the best quality
Saucony Men's Grid Omni Walker Walking Shoe
The Saucony grid Omni walker men is a walking shoe that comes with the features to prevent pronation. In particular, the molded EVA midsole has an innovative design that makes it useful for a patient in shock absorption and providing comfort. The high rate of pronation maybe another source of pain for those suffering from Achilles tendonitis.
Another helpful feature for those suffering from Achilles tendonitis is the asymmetrical sole, whose primary role is to provide a good fit. The measurement of the shaft from the arch is low top, and which in our opinion, is adequate for recovery. Chances of aggravating the injury are minimal.
What we like
Molded EVA midsole to provide comfort and adequate shock absorption
Measurement of the shaft from the arch is low top and sufficient
Asymmetrical sole to give a good fit
You can use it for walking and running
What we don't like
The quality of the walking shoe may not be the best
Some complain that the shoe squeaks
How can wearing the right footwear help with Achilles tendonitis?
Achilles tendonitis can be excruciatingly painful for some people. It can make your mobile for some time, and the pain can affect the quality of your life. However, there is a variety of treatments that can include massage oils, prescription medication, and even alternative medicine.
With or without medication, getting the right footwear can help with Achilles tendonitis. In other words, the kind of shoes that you choose during the healing process, and even after healing and determine whether you make a full recovery or not.
But how can shoes help?
Well, specific shoes can prevent further inflammation to the damaged tendon, and support the healing process. Such shoes also prevent further deterioration of the inflamed tissue, and that is perhaps the most crucial role.
That is because the right footwear for the problems of the Achilles tendon are firm, have an adequate cushion, and come with a supportive heel. The shoes are more comfortable and offer sufficient shock absorption than the typical footwear on the market.
That said, how do you choose the best shoes for Achilles tendonitis? Which criteria do you use?
The factors to consider when purchasing shoes for Achilles tendonitis
You can tell that it is about to rain by the density of the clouds, the humidity, and the wind. Well, some people can claim to have some divine revelation on the impending weather condition, but those are the people we do not take seriously.
Just like an impending rain, there are a few factors that you may need to consider when buying the right footwear for Achilles tendonitis. And unlike buying the dress shoes or running sneakers, you need to be extra careful with shoes for Achilles tendonitis. Making the wrong choice can cost you significantly by making the foot condition even worse.
Look out for these factors
The feet with high arches are the most vulnerable to Achilles tendonitis. So what do you do if you are among those with high arches?
The arch is one of the essential parts of the foot, and it is critical that you protect it. Choose the shoes with the right at support for you.
Mostly, the height of the arch can vary between individuals, and so what may be suitable for another may not be right for you. and as they say, ‘one man's meat is another man's poison.’ Choose the right one for you, depending on the size of the arch.
Heel Cushioning
For the best heel protection, it is necessary that you look for those shoes that provided the best heel cushioning — no compromise on this.
Always take note that better cushioning relieves pressure off the heels, and you are more comfortable as a result. It is, therefore, possible for the shoe to support optimal healing.
Ankle collar
The ankle collar of the shoe plays an essential role in preventing inappropriate moments and offering adequate support to avoid injuries to the Achilles tendon.
High-pressure moments like running and jogging can prove risky for some people, especially those that are not ardent runners. If you are taking up jogging as a way of keeping fit, then it is advisable that you choose footwear with adequate ankle collar for proper support and protection.
You will also find that some shoes have a padded ankle collar and tongue. These provide enough shock absorption to prevent the development of an injury.
The Bending at the Ball of Foot
For those suffering from Achilles tendonitis, it is critical to find footwear that has the appropriate bend at the ball to accommodate the heel and provide sufficient support. It must be firm enough to prevent movement that can further aggravate the Achilles tendon. Therefore, look for the shoe that bends exactly at the ball for the best support and protection.
Insoles
Removable insoles are preferable as they make it easy to clean and change. Even so, make sure that the insoles have adequate cushioning. Proper shock absorption is necessary to protect the heel from high impact moments that mostly characterize running or jogging.
The height of the Heel
Ideally, the heel of the shoe should neither be too high nor too low. It should only be slightly above the heel. Not too much.
That is necessary to ensure efficient movement and prevent barriers that stand in the way. An inflamed heel can have a hard time healing if it does not get excellent support from the shoe at the back.
Final Note
If you are suffering from Achilles tendonitis, then it is critical that you choose footwear most appropriate for your condition. Not all Achilles tendonitis are the same, and so is a shoe that would provide the best support and comfort to prevent discomfort and aggravation of the condition.
What makes the above products the best shoes for Achilles tendonitis is the comfort they provide, the unmatched support to the heel, and the overall quality. They are examples of the shoes you should be going to ensure superior shock absorption and comfort.
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