The posterior tibial tendon is a ligament that runs from the inside of the knee to the bone in the back of the ankle. Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD) causes pain and swelling along the inside of your foot, and it can be a result of many things including injury or overuse. Today, we will look at Best Shoes For Posterior Tibial Tendonitis, best walking shoes for posterior tibial tendonitis and the best shoes to wear for posterior tibial tendonitis.
The best shoes for posterior tibial tendonitis are those that have a good orthotic insole, as well as plenty of room in the toe box.
You want to find a shoe that fits well around your heel, but also has enough room in the forefoot to accommodate swelling. Most people with posterior tibial tendonitis will find relief from their pain by wearing shoes that allow for ample space in the front of the shoe.
The symptoms are usually worse when you’re walking or running, so it’s important to choose shoes that will protect your feet and provide support during those activities.
If you have PTTD, here are some tips for choosing supportive footwear:
Choose shoes with good arch support and a snug fit. Shoes with low arches don’t provide enough support for PTTD sufferers because they’re not able to support their arches properly as they walk or run. A snug fit is important because loose-fitting shoes can move around as you walk or run, causing more stress on your feet and ankles than necessary.
Choose shoes with roomy toe boxes. This is especially important if you need orthotics for your foot problems, but even if you don’t wear them every day, having roomy toe boxes can reduce pressure on your toes when walking or running by giving them some extra space in which to move freely
Best Shoes For Posterior Tibial Tendonitis
When you’re out running, you don’t want to think about potential injuries. However, it’s important to listen to your body if you’re experiencing pain. Posterior tibial tendonitis can be identified by pain along the inside of your foot and ankle.
Treatment can be as simple as rest to something as extreme as surgical intervention. In both cases, shoes are a vital component for healing.
It’s important to wear supportive shoes not only when you’re out running again but also throughout the recovery process. These shoes are perfect for posterior tibial tendonitis, both for running and day-to-day wear.
We suggest the New Balance 990v5. They have a nice wide platform, a roomy toe box, and a firm, dual-density midsole that supports the foot.
Best walking shoes for posterior tibial tendonitis
1. NEW BALANCE 990V5
The New Balance 990 range has been around for 3 decades, so you know they’re doing something right! The 5th version embodies classic styling with plenty of structure and stability.
WHAT WE LIKE
The 990v5 is a comfy workhorse of a shoe. The 12mm drop gives the shoe a good bit of heel cushioning, and the polyurethane ENCAP ring around the heel offers excellent stability. It’s filled with EVA foam for a cushy and protective landing.
New Balance shoes are well-known for their wide fit, which creates a pretty stable platform for running. This not only provides a sort of inherent stability, but it also prevents the shoe from twisting in the midfoot.
This shoe features a thick medial post which provides the bulk of support to the shoe. A dual-density foam collar also helps to hold the foot nicely in place, while being comfortable and supporting the ankle well.
On the outsole, blown rubber gives you a good grip. The shoe is definitely made for road running, and the rubber layer is generous enough to make the shoe very durable.
Although there’s plenty of thick, supportive suede on the upper of this sneaker, there are mesh panels throughout to keep your feet cool, dry, and comfy.
WHY WE LIKE IT
It’s old-school, but it offers excellent stability and protection for the posterior tibial tendon. We can even deal with the slight increase in weight, as it’s greatly effective for runners with PTT.
WHAT’S NEW
The style of the 990 hasn’t changed much, retaining its classic design. It is slightly heavier than the previous version, which may be due to the addition of a sturdy plastic Powerstrap on the heel.
PROS:
- Roomier toe box
- Firm, supportive midsole
- Dual-density foam collar
- Made in the USA
CONS:
- May be a little heavy for some
TOP VALUE
2. ASICS GT-2000 10
This is a stability shoe that’s light, easy to wear on a daily basis, and has some great heel cushioning and support.
GT stands for Guidance Trusstic, which immediately indicates that there’s a motion control feature.
WHAT WE LIKE
The upper of the ASICS GT-2000 10 has been revamped, and is more comfy and fitted than previous ones. It also comes with a bunch of heel cushioning, both in the upper and underneath the heel.
A chunk of GEL cushioning under the heel does a great job of absorbing shock. There’s also an extended heel counter, which provides effective support and prevents excessive movement of the posterior tibial tendon.
Also supporting the foot is the LiteTruss system, which is new to this version of the shoe. LiteTruss gets rid of the traditional posting system and instead uses a non-intrusive support piece under the medial side of the midfoot and heel to provide torsional stability.
Add the firm heel counter, and you’ve got a superbly supportive shoe. There’s also a plush tongue for a better lockdown, although some might find that the tongue is thick enough to get in the way.
The new Flytefoam in the midsole is a bit more bouncy than the previous stuff, which speedier runners will appreciate. Also, while some of the previous GTs have been a little narrow in the forefoot, the 10 has a generous fit that allows for decent wiggle-room.
AHAR+ rubber on the outsole keeps you stable and secure on your feet, as always, as well as making the shoe super durable.
WHY WE LIKE IT
This is a super comfy stability shoe that keeps the foot locked down and extremely well supported. It also has that classic ASICS stylish look.
WHAT’S NEW
The upper has been redesigned for a better fit. There’s also a new midsole material that adds a touch extra bounce. It also uses LiteTruss technology, rather than the trusstic system of the previous shoes. It’s also slightly heavier than the previous one.
PROS:
- Bouncy and responsive midsole
- LiteTruss technology reduces overpronation
- Firm heel counter reduces lateral movement of the foot
- Plush, padded heel collar and tongue
CONS:
- Some may find the tongue to be too thick
MOST SUPPORTIVE
3. ASICS GEL-KAYANO 28
The Gel-Kayano 28 is a stability shoe that looks as good as it feels. It’s a daily trainer that does a great job in a variety of situations.
WHAT WE LIKE
There’s no denying that the ASICS Gel range is highly comfortable. The Kayano 28 is one of their best stability models, and it has a range of features that make it more than up for the job.
Overpronators can be sure on their feet thanks to the combo of the Dynamic DuoMax medial post and the Guidance Trusstic Systeml.
There’s also a heel counter, although it’s been redesigned to be less visible than the previous version’s but more supportive for overpronators specifically.
Underfoot, the shoe feels soft and a little bouncy, thanks to the addition of Flytefoam Blast, a new midsole compound that’s more responsive than the previous one.
AHAR rubber on the sole now covers the entire surface, keeping you safer on your feet on the road.
WHY WE LIKE IT
Stable, comfortable, and stylish! What more could we ask for in a stability shoe? Your posterior tibial tendon will thank you for investing in these.
WHAT’S NEW
The 28 has full-ground contact rubber, which makes the shoe much more durable. The Trusstic system isn’t as obvious as before, instead being sandwiched between layers of cushioning.
Also, the heel counter has been redesigned so it sits slightly lower on the lateral side and back, but higher on the media side, providing good support for overpronators.
Flytefoam Blast replaces Propel for a bit of pop. Lastly, the toe box has been slightly reshaped for a better, more spacious fit.
PROS:
- Strategically placed dual-density arch support system
- Smooth ride from landing to toe-off
- GEL cushioning helps absorb shock
- Versatile daily trainer
CONS:
- Runs slightly warm
BEST FOR OVERPRONATION
4. BROOKS ADRENALINE GTS 22
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 is excellent for those with mild to moderate overpronation. The heel support is easy to see from the outside.
WHAT WE LIKE
Brooks’ GuideRails support makes this a unique stability shoe that will definitely do its job effectively and remove that discomfort that often comes with traditional systems.
GuideRails are reinforced sections running along the medial and lateral sides of the heel, which hold the heel in place and prevent any sideways movement. They also prevent the arch from falling over and causing aches, pains, and injuries.
An engineered Air Mesh upper contours to the foot thanks to 3D Fit Print tech, and the tighter-than-last-version weave provides a little more support.
DNA LOFT foam offers a comfortable but not-too-soft cushion under the foot, which absorbs impact and protects the joints.
Between the comfy cushion and the support, overpronators will find that their posterior tibial tendon stays firmly in place and doesn’t undertake any more strain than necessary.
WHY WE LIKE IT
It’s super effective for overpronators, and has plenty of features that benefit posterior tibial tendons too.
WHAT’S NEW
Brooks hasn’t changed much at all on this shoe. The toe box features a slightly tighter knit for support and is a touch firmer in the midsole than before.
PROS:
- GuideRail system gently guides your foot
- Segmented crash pad for easy transition
- Provides superb support for people with flat feet
- DNA LOFT cushioning provides a soft, smooth ride
CONS:
- The laces are short
TOP FOR HEEL STRIKERS
5. NIKE ZOOM STRUCTURE 24
There’s a reason Nike remains one of the best running shoe manufacturers out there! The Nike Zoom Structure 24 has excellent features to protect heel strikers but it’s also great for overpronators.
WHAT WE LIKE
Between the crash pad in the heel, the effective cushioning, and the internal heel counter, this running shoe is great for those who strike with the heel first.
The heel cushioning reduces shock to the foot, the heel counter keeps it firmly in place, and that crash pad facilitates a smooth heel-to-toe transition.
The medial side of the shoe is dense and supportive, stopping the foot from falling over and supported by the heel counter. Also, the fact that the shoe actually has a decently wide base (unusual for a Nike) makes it easy to plant yourself firmly on the ground.
Unusually, it features a less-used foam in the midsole, CMP 010. It’s soft, spongy, and super comfortable. Extra cushion features in the forefoot, by way of a small Air Zoom unit under the ball of the foot.
Nike also has excellent rubber coverage on their outsole. They’ll keep you safe and sturdy on your feet, on a number of different surfaces.
Lastly, the upper is plush and comfortable. A thick heel collar adds to the support, but take note that those who want a speedy shoe should probably consider a different one.
WHY WE LIKE IT
This shoe has exceptional support and cushioning in the heel, making it ideal for heel strikers who need extra stability for posterior tibial tendonitis.
WHAT’S NEW
The Structure 24 is an upper-only update (reworked lacing system, dofter inner sleeve, and more durable and breathable), and although it makes it more aerodynamic, it does increase the weight a little.
PROS:
- Medium-soft CMP-010 foam cushioning
- Strategically-placed crash pad in the heel
- Strong internal heel counter provides a secure heel lockdown
- No break-in period needed
CONS:
- A little heavy for those who want some speed
BEST LIGHTWEIGHT SHOE
6. MIZUNO WAVE INSPIRE 17
This sleek-looking shoe is light on the feet and on the road. Unlike most Mizunos, it’s also a good fit for wider feet, and provides great support all round.
WHAT WE LIKE
The Mizuno Wave Inspire 17 may be a stability shoe, but it’s fairly light when you compare it to others. The men’s shoe weighs just 10.9 ounces, while an average-sized women’s shoe is around 9.2 ounces.
Its stability features include Mizuno’s well-known wave plate, a wide platform, and a very secure heel. The wave plate provides excellent support for overpronators, with a gentle curve on the lateral side and a sturdier one in the medial area.
There’s also an internal heel counter which contributes to an excellent lockdown on the foot. That and the plush, comfortable heel collar really do a good job of keeping the foot stable in one position.
ENERZY foam in the lower midsole is light, buzzy, and has a bit of pep to it. It’s soft underfoot, so you’ll be perfectly comfortable on your feet. That bit of extra something means you can pick up the pace if you want to.
On top of the wave plate is a bit of U4ic foam, which works well with the ENERZY to provide you a versatile ride.
A Micro Blown Rubber outsole with redesigned lugs offers superb grip and will keep you safe on your feet for many miles to come.
WHY WE LIKE IT
The wave plate provides stability without being overly annoying, and it’s lighter than many other stability shoes.
WHAT’S NEW
The shape of the wave plate has been updated, and the outsole has been redesigned and now features newly-shaped lugs for better grip. Also, the shoe is more flexible as they’ve removed the sturdy bit in the forefoot.
PROS:
- Wave plate for lightweight stability
- Lighter, softer, more responsive cushioning
- Firm internal heel counter locks your foot into place
- Tread pattern provides excellent grip
CONS:
- May run slightly warm
TOP FOR ROAD RUNNING
7. SAUCONY HURRICANE 23
This premium stability shoe will keep both your arches and your posterior tibial tendons safe and feeling good for the duration of your run.
WHAT WE LIKE
The TPU Guidance Frame makes this shoe nice and supportive, but at the same time, it doesn’t intrude on the comfy feeling of your run. It’s hidden between two layers of foam, making it extremely unobtrusive.
It works with the updated upper and Formfit footbed to provide a strong hold on your foot, locking down the heel and cradling you in both comfort and safety, keeping that posterior tibial tendon stable.
Underfoot, Saucony’s PWRRUN+ cushioning delivers the best of both soft comfort and a bit of a jazzed up responsiveness.
Then there’s a full-rubber outsole, which is ideal for smooth sailing on the road and will last you many miles before wearing out. Strategic flex grooves allow for comfortable flexibility and smooth movement.
WHY WE LIKE IT
It’s ideal for road running, with a robust outsole and a hardy TPU Guidance Frame for stability. Keeps the foot very well locked down!
WHAT’S NEW
The changes to the 23 are very welcomed. It’s a touch lighter than before, has a restructured upper for a better, more supportive fit, and an updated outsole, now featuring full-length rubber.
PROS:
- Structured upper design
- Great for various types of runs
- Excellent energy return
- TPU Guidance frame is unobtrusive
CONS:
- May run slightly warm
MOST COMFORTABLE
8. BROOKS GLYCERIN GTS 19
In classic Brooks style, this road running shoe is both comfortable and practical. It’s also surprisingly supportive in the rearfoot, ideal for those with PTT.
WHAT WE LIKE
The Glycerin GTS 19 is loaded with Brooks’ softest foam to date, so exceptionally comfortable underfoot that you won’t want to take them off after your run.
It’s not just the DNA LOFT foam in the midsole that makes the shoe feel amazing. It’s also the soft blown rubber on the outsole, which adds a slight bit of cushion and shock absorption as well as fantastic traction.
But it’s also excellent for stability, especially in the ankle area where posterior tibial tendonitis hits. GuideRails in the rearfoot engage when you need them to keep your foot stable in place. They totally don’t get in the way, though.
One thing that may not be suited to everyone is the arch support. It’s a little on the low side, which might not be enough for some runners, especially those with high arches.
WHY WE LIKE IT
It’s a great update and keeps the runner stable on their feet, while providing excellent support for the rearfoot to prevent tweaks to the tendons. Oh, and it’s comfyyyy!
WHAT’S NEW
Fans of Brooks shoes may find this somewhat confusing, but the Glycerin GTS 19 is actually an update of the Transcend 7. Although there is a Glycerin 18, it was never available in a GTS version and this shoe replaces the Transcend.
The GTS 19 has a wider surface area on the outsole, making for a much more stable platform. It’s also a bit more flexible in the forefoot than the Transcend 7 was, as well as a touch softer underfoot.
PROS:
- Soft, supportive cushioning on a stable platform
- Comfortable out of the box
- Blown rubber on the outsole
- Guide Rail system cradles the foot
CONS:
- May not be suitable for those who need strong arch support
MOST DURABLE
9. SAUCONY OMNI 20
The Omni 20 is a stability shoe that’s great for mild to moderate overpronators. It’s also incredibly durable, thanks to a robust outsole.
WHAT WE LIKE
You’ll get a ton of miles out of this shoe, with combination rubber on the outsole. Softer iBR+ rubber in the forefoot cushions and provides great shock absorption, and harder XT-900 in the heel improves the durability by a whole lot.
For extra stability, the shoe features an extended medial post, keeping the foot from falling over as you run. Speedroll technology in the outsole also helps to facilitate an easy roll-through, putting less pressure on the tendons.
A subtle mixture of PWRRUN and EVERUN foam in the midsole gives you a great feeling underfoot, and adds some stability. It also has a nice breathable upper, which is evident by the large perforations that are easy to see.
WHY WE LIKE IT
As well as being great for overpronators, this shoe stabilizes the foot enough to protect the posterior tibial tendon. And it will last you ages if you use it for its intended purpose!
WHAT’S NEW
The ride is smoother and easier than before, thanks to an updated midsole, now featuring PWRRUN and EVERUN foam. Flex grooves have been added to the forefoot, and the ISOFIT upper has been switched to a FORMFIT upper, making it softer and more conforming to the foot.
PROS:
- Breathable upper hugs your foot
- Speedroll design provides smoother transitions
- Durable, full-rubber outsole
- Great for long runs
CONS:
- Heel collar is a little on the low side
BEST LIGHTWEIGHT CUSHIONING
10. HOKA ARAHI 6
The Arahi 6 has Hoka’s typical chunky cushioning, with 33.8mm in the heel and 28.8mm in the heel. That’s a whole lotta shock absorption, but it comes at a lovely light weight. The stability features make it great for support.
WHAT WE LIKE
The Arahi 6 is one of the lightest stability shoes you’ll find, but it doesn’t sacrifice exceptional cushioning and comfort.
As well as a serious stack height, there’s a sturdy J-Frame in the medial midsole, keeping the overpronating foot stable and still. It’s actually so light and unobtrusive that neutral runners can wear this shoe with no discomfort.
A spacious forefoot and early-stage meta-rocker add to the comfort. The 30+mm of firm foam underneath the foot does a good job of absorbing shock, although it’s not the most responsive of choices.
The heel collar and tongue are plush, holding the foot nicely in place as you run. An Achilles tab helps to keep you locked down without friction. If you cinch down properly, your tendons won’t be doing any unnecessary moving.
WHY WE LIKE IT
It’s light but cushioned, supportive but comfortable. All the things we need for posterior tibial tendonitis.
WHAT’S NEW
The EVA foam midsole has been updated to be lighter and more energetic. Also, the upper is now more breathable and reduced in weight. There’s also an Achilles tab to reduce friction.
PROS:
- Light, versatile running shoe
- Supportive J-frame
- Early stage Meta-Rocker provides smooth transitions
- Ride is somewhat firm
CONS:
- Runs slightly wide
Best shoes to wear for posterior tibial tendonitis
If you’re suffering from posterior tibial tendonitis, the best shoes for you to wear are ones that offer lots of support and cushioning.
The best shoes for posterior tibial tendonitis will be sturdy, cushioned, and supportive. The extra support will help to keep your ankle and foot from twisting too much, which is what can cause the inflammation and pain in your tendon.
The most important thing is to make sure that your shoes are well-padded at the front and back. This helps to keep your foot stable while walking and running. This can also prevent your feet from rolling inward, which can cause even more pain in your Achilles tendon.
You should also try to find running shoes with a little extra cushioning right under the ball of your foot—this is where most people get their pain from this injury, so having extra cushioning there will help reduce pain significantly.
BUYERS GUIDE – RUNNING SHOES FOR POSTERIOR TIBIAL TENDONITIS
HEEL SUPPORT AND CUSHIONING
The heel of the shoe should provide excellent support and cushioning for the foot. Look for a stable heel counter to prevent lateral movement, heel padding, and a comfortable and supportive heel collar.
SUPPORT
Opting for a support shoe can be extremely handy. These shoes are specifically designed to counter overpronation, but they can help to keep the foot planted firmly in place and prevent any unnecessary rolling or twisting that would aggravate the tendon.
OTHER FEATURES
CUSHION
Cushioning absorbs shock and protects the joints from being jarred each time your foot lands. In a great shoe for posterior tibial tendonitis, there should be a decent amount of cushioning in the heel especially, but also light padding in the forefoot.
TRACTION
Slipping while running can tweak that tendon! This is why it’s important to choose shoes with excellent grip. Also, make sure the shoe you choose has an appropriate tread pattern for the kind of running you’ll be doing.
For example, there’s a big difference between trail running shoes and road running shoes. But there’s also a difference between your light trail running shoes and those that are better suited for slogging through mud.
FLEXIBILITY
Your shoe should have just the right amount of flexibility for your foot. Some runners prefer stiffer outsoles, while others like a bit of flex in their shoe. Choose something that works for you!
TORSIONAL STABILITY
While the heel-to-toe flexibility of a shoe is all good, you should be looking for a shoe that doesn’t flex side-to-side. The sole should be stiff from medial to lateral side, so that your foot has much less chance of twisting as you run.
BREATHABILITY
Well-ventilated shoes are always important. Your eet should always be cool, dry, and comfortable when you run. If your feet sweat too much or become damp, it can create discomfort or rubbing, which may cause you to change your gait and place unnecessary strain on the posterior tibial tendon.
