If you don’t have time to read the entire review and just want to find out the best running shoes for overpronation, then we recommend Asics Gel Kahana 8 Running Shoe as the best choice.
When you are running, the pronation of your foot is its natural movement as you take each stride and then land.
Unfortunately, if you suffer from overpronation it means your first two toes, including your big toe, take more of the pressure and weight, leading to less stability and in most cases pain in other parts of your leg such as your ankles, knee and not surprisingly, your foot.
Using running shoes for overpronation can help improve your stability and control each foot’s movement, so in this article, we will not only highlight the desired features of these running shoes but also review 5 of the best running shoes for overpronation.
We’re going to review the following running shoes for overpronation:
- Asics Gel Kahana 8 Running Shoe
- Brooks Men’s Ravenna 9 Running Shoes
- Mizuno Men’s Wave Inspire 14 Running Shoe
- Saucony Men’s Omni 13 Running Shoe
- New Balance Men’s Vongo V3 Fresh Foam Running Shoe
Best Running Shoes For Overpronation Reviews
Asics Gel Kahana 8 Running Shoe
The first running shoe for overpronation we are going to look is the Kahana 8 from top sports brand Asics, which not only comes in sizes from 6 to 18, but it also has plenty of color options too.
Product Highlights
We’ll start with that point in the intro about color options, which may not have much bearing on how comfortable they are, but for those of you who like a choice you’ll be pleased to know there are nine. The combinations include blue, silver, yellow and red as well as the more traditional black and gray.
On to the important features of this running shoe and to begin with, we’ll mention the materials. The uppers are synthetic, as is the case with most running shoes, and the sole is made from rubber.
These combine to give the shoes the flexibility needed when running, and the rubber is especially effective at providing a sure grip underfoot, even in wet conditions.
The midsole is made from dual density EVA materials which provides the necessary level of cushioning without compromising the support in this area that is desirable for those suffering from overpronation.
In the heel area, the running shoes have gel cushioning which will absorb the impact of each step to reduce the chances of injury to your heel or joints. The gel heel also assists with the motion of your foot when running as it helps transfer the weight from your heel forward to the middle and front of your foot as you run.
What I Like
A sure and secure grip underfoot when running is essential to ensure you do not slip or fall, so the excellent rubber sole and its tread pattern are most welcomes features of these running shoes.
What I Don’t Like
While it may not be an issue for many, the heel does feel as though it softens very quickly which could be a problem for those who need stronger support in that area.
Pros
- Multiple color choices
- Gel cushioning in the heel
- Dual density midsole for stability
- EVA material provides flexibility
- Excellent grip underfoot
Cons
- Toe box is tighter than many
- Sizing is inaccurate
Brooks Men’s Ravenna 9 Running Shoes
These Ravenna 9 running shoes from Brooks may not be as well-known as some of the stellar brands, however, they should grab your attention when you see how many advanced features they have
Product Highlights
If you are looking for running shoes for overpronation then there are several features you want them to have to minimize any discomfort or pain you might otherwise feel when you are running, and the Ravenna 9 has most of them.
First, they are extremely stable and offer a high level of support thanks to their thermoplastic shank which provides a rigid platform in the mid-foot areas. Brooks’ patented ‘Diagonal Rollbar’ adds further support in this area.
When wearing these running shoes, you are able to adjust the synthetic saddle so that it almost wraps around your foot for an extremely comfortable fit. The lacing closure and tongue compliment this, as it allows you to secure them tight enough to remain stable but not so much that they are pressing too hard on your foot.
To ensure your feet stay cool and moisture free, even on distance runs, the uppers are breathable, and effectively manage any sweat by enabling it to evaporate.
The cushioning underfoot is exceptional, starting with the soft lining and removable sock liner. Beyond these, there is thick cushioning known as ‘Cushole’ which is designed to be flexible as well as absorbing impact as you are running. In particular the toe area is especially springy, meaning you have the best possible push off with every step.
What I Like
There can’t be many running shoes for overpronation that offer as many features that promote support and stability for your feet as these do.
What I Don’t Like
The fit on these is very narrow so they may not be as comfortable, or even suitable for those with particularly wide feet.
Pros
- Extra thick cushioned sole
- Very flexible midsole
- High level of stability and support
- Adjustable saddle
- Color options
Cons
- Seams could be stronger
- Material prone to ripping
Mizuno Men’s Wave Inspire 14 Running Shoe
Mizuno has been making sporting goods for well over 100 years so you would expect them to know about running shoes, and they prove that they do, with the very distinctive Wave Inspire 14.
Product Highlights
We say they are distinctive, and this is for several reasons including their low profile, bold marking, and also because they can be purchased in color trims which include luminous lime and at least three other variations of blue.
These may make them stand out in terms of how they look, but the main reason they raise an eyebrow or two is the array of features that the Wave Inspire 14s have.
On their base there is a rubber sole which is highly flexible to ensure you have the most amount of maneuverability possible when running. The bold tread pattern on the sole also provides a high degree of surefootedness especially when you are running on slippery or wet surfaces.
There is no shortage of technology used in the design and manufacturing of these running shoes as can be seen within the midsole, with Mizuno’s ‘Cloudwave’ feature. This gives runners a soft landing as they take each stride, and this extends from the tip of your toes, all the way to your heel.
The ‘Airmesh’ upper has many benefits, not least of which is the support it provides for your foot. The breathable nature of the upper also helps to keep your feet cool.
What I Like
The high level of comfort provided by the Mizuno Wave Inspire 14 Running Shoes is amazing and has to be experienced to be believed, especially if you suffer from overpronation
What I Don’t Like
Some runners may be surprised and even disappointed, that these running shoes are heavier than most, which may be an issue when running as it requires the minimum of extra weight to be carried.
Pros
- Breathable upper for cooling
- Extremely comfortable when worn
- Very stable when running
- Heel to toe cushioning
- Distinctive color trims
Cons
- Running shoes are very narrow
- Arch back is too snug
Saucony Men’s Omni 13 Running Shoe
If you suffer from overpronation the Omni 13 is a running shoe which provides the correct combination of support and stability for your feet, but not at the expense of your comfort.
Product Highlights
When you are running, the impact of each stride and any pain or discomfort caused by it, needs to be minimized, if not eliminated altogether. These running shoes have features which should achieve this, especially within the midsole.
This comprises of Saucony’s unique dual-density EVA material which acts as an excellent shock absorber for your foot by cushioning each stride and distributing the pressure evenly across it.
The soles of the Omni 13 are made from carbon rubber, but that is only half the story. This specially formulated rubber provides triple the amount of cushioning standard rubber can, it is lighter to make running easier, and it offers superb traction underfoot, for your safety and stability on dry or wet surfaces.
The uppers are made from a breathable mesh material which stretches as required when your foot moves. The upper also has less stitching than most running shoes tend to have which is an attempt to lessen the irritation that stitching can occasionally cause.
Sticking with the interior of the running shoes we have a sock liner which contours to the shape of your foot. This one fits snuggly and is thus very comfortable, but more importantly, it provides additional support for your arches.
What I Like
Your feet take the most punishment when running from underneath, so it is good to see that the excellent shock absorption feature in the sole and midsole of the Omni 13 will minimize this issue.
What I Don’t Like
With the ankle being so critical to running the lack of support that these running shoes have in that particular area is both surprising and disappointing given the great support in other parts of the shoes.
Pros
- Supportive inner sock
- Breathable upper minimizes moisture
- Carbon rubber sole for superb traction
- EVA midsole absorbs impact
- Less stitching to reduce irritation
Cons
- Laces are poor quality
- Width is narrow
New Balance Men’s Vongo V3 Fresh Foam Running Shoe
New Balance has an excellent reputation for manufacturing top quality sports footwear, and their Vongo V3 is no exception, thanks to high-spec materials and innovative features
Product Highlights
Your first impression of the Vongo V3 might possibly be that they are not running shoes at all given how bulky they look. They do look somewhat unique, especially with the very distinctive 3D screen print patterns on the uppers, but there is no denying that are very effective running shoes which are ideal for runners with overpronation.
Notwithstanding how the upper looks, more important is its effectiveness and the fact that it is made from breathable material is a positive, given how important it is that sweat and moisture do not build up inside the shoe.
The sock liner is molded for maximum coverage of your foot and to provide a secure fit. This also adds to the stability of these running shoes. That stability is further enhanced by the single piece foam insole which provides excellent cushioning and ensures that the impact of each stride is minimized.
Your first line of defense in terms of impact is actually the rubber sole which is very flexible and more importantly has a very effective tread pattern that will ensure a sound footing regardless of the surface underneath.
What I Like
With the midsole being made form a single piece of foam, when you are running the transition of each step you take when running feels very natural.
What I Don’t Like
Unusually for a running shoe, this one from New Balance seems and looks very bulky which might not appeal to everyone in terms of either the appearance or the design.
Pros
- Breathable upper material
- Single piece foam midsole
- Excellent flexibility
- Effective tread pattern
- Very supportive
Cons
- Priced higher than comparable shoes
- Take a while to break in
Buyer’s Guide
Choosing a pair of running shoes for overpronation isn’t a simple matter of just choosing the pair you like the look of and selecting the correct size.
Given that running does take its toll on your feet, and with overpronation adding to any potential discomfort or pain, you need to be more discerning when considering the appropriate pair.
in this buying guide, we will highlight 6 of the most important features that you should be looking for when comparing running shoes for overpronation, and the significance of each them. By reading this first, your search will be more informed, which should help you select the pair most suitable for you.
Support
The key areas of support required in running shoes for overpronation are in the arch, heel and ankle areas of the shoes. This support is normally the main function of the midsole which tends to be made from an EVA material due to its dual benefits of providing stability while allowing maximum flexibility.
Comfort
Comfort is often a personal perception, however, there are several features which can help promote comfort in a pair of running shoes for overpronation.
One of the main ones is the contours of the insole which should mold itself to the shape of your foot. The cushioning within the insole and the inner lining are also crucial to how comfortable a pair of running shoes will be.
Outsole
A running shoe’s outsole is a crucial part of its design as this is the part of the shoe which comes into contact with the ground. An outsole must provide two essential benefits to be effective.
The first is enough cushioning in order to absorb the impact of your foot hitting the ground when you run. Arguably more important than that is the tread on the outsole which ensures you won’t slip on wet ground and provides traction when you push off for each stride.
Responsiveness
Responsiveness relates to how your running shoes feel each time your foot comes into contact with the ground.
With a highly responsive shoe, you should feel the energy coming back through your foot thanks to the cushioning you have underneath each foot. The more energy that comes back through your running shoes, the less energy you have to exert yourself.
Stability
Knowing you have a stable platform under your feet makes running more enjoyable, so those running shoes which offer high levels of stability are the ones to look for. How stable a running will depend on the midsole being made from high-quality materials, and an outsole with decent grip underfoot.
Fit
Fit is something that causes a lot of dissatisfaction, due to the fact that although running shoes are categorized by specific shoe sizes, every manufacturer’s tolerances on this will differ. This means some will be slightly smaller than the size, and some will be slighter larger.
Our advice is to read customer reviews for each shoe in relation to size and look for a pattern of comments indicating how accurate the sizing is, and whether the running shoes tend to be larger or smaller.
Best Running Shoes For Overpronation FAQ
How can you spot pronation from shoe wear?
The simple way to spot overpronation is to check the area where the ball of your foot is located. If there is more wear towards your big toe and instep, this is a sign of overpronation.
How do you lace running shoes for overpronation?
While we could write an entire essay on lacing techniques, here a simple way to lace your running shoes if you suffer from overpronation. What you want to do is lace them so that the laces ‘pull’ the shoe from the inside to the outside of your foot. This can be done by pulling the laces firmly across before tying them off.
What is pronation in shoes?
Pronation is the term used to describe the natural movement from side to side of your feet as you walk or run. Normal pronation means this is balanced, overpronation means your foot rolls inwards, and supination means your foot rolls outwards.
What does overpronation mean in running?
Overpronation, when you run, means your foot is rolling towards your big toe and instep when the ball of your foot hits the ground. This can cause strain on your big toe, shin splints, and knee pain.
Are neutral running shoes good for overpronation with high arches?
In most cases, they are not, although this will differ from person to person. Ideally, you want running shoes that offer greater support in the arch area and are designed so that more weight is transferred to the heel area of the shoe.
Final Thoughts on the Best Running Shoes for Overpronation
As we come to the end of this article, hopefully it has given you all the information you need and has answered some of the questions you might have had about running shoes for overpronation.
In addition, we hope the reviews helped you to narrow down your choices, and maybe even enabled you to select the running shoes you wish to buy.
We always conclude with what we believe is the top product and although it was close, for this product category, it has to be the Asics Gel Kahana 8 Running Shoes.
The grip they provide underfoot is exceptional, and with other features to promote stability and comfort such as gel cushioning, and dual density midsole, they are worthy of being tagged the best running shoes for overpronation.