When most people think about back pain, they don’t necessarily realize that the source of their pain could be coming from their feet and, thus, their shoes. (Or their lack thereof, which is why podiatrists want you to wear house shoes.) Your feet are the foundation of your entire body and will support or hurt you based on how they influence your posture and gait.
“When the feet are not adequately supported, shock travels up through the ankles, knees, and hips and places added strain on the lower back. Proper foot support helps improve overall alignment and reduces stress on the spine and surrounding muscles,” says Nasim Kahlor, D.P.M., of Food & Ankle Concepts, Inc.
“For patients dealing with lower back pain, I recommend shoes that provide proper cushioning, arch support, and stability, which help absorb impact with each step. It will be even better [if you add] custom orthotics to help support the alignment of the back and lower extremities.”
So which shoes exactly are best for preventing or supporting lower back pain? We asked a handful of podiatrists and rounded up their favorite recommendations from brands like Hoka, Brooks, Vionic and more.
The Best Shoes for Lower Back Pain
Brooks Ghost Max 3
Brooks Running
“I treat a ton of back issues connected to feet and the Brooks Ghost Max is incredible for lower back pain,” says Nicole G. Freels, FACPM, C.Ped, of Lexington Podiatry. “Their nitrogen-infused dual technology is perfect for not only shock absorption, but also ankle joint instability.” Freels explained that often people with back issues have foundational instability, so it’s important to look for materials that provide stability.
Brooks Addiction Walker 2
Brooks Running
“This walking shoe is known for its excellent stability and motion control, which is crucial for people experiencing lower back pain,” says Gregory Alvarez, D.P.M., FACFAS, at Ankle & Foot Centers of America. “The Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar helps keep the foot aligned, improving overall posture and reducing stress on the spine. Its cushioned midsole also absorbs impact well, making walking more comfortable and reducing jarring forces that can aggravate back pain.” We also like that this shoe comes in narrow, medium, wide and extra wide, so you’re sure to find the perfect fit.
New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v15
Amazon
“This New Balance shoe has a mid to high heel-to-toe drop of 8 millimeters. “For people with back pain, a slightly increased heel-to-toe drop is typically necessary, as most of us have a tight posterior chain in our legs, which can worsen or cause low back pain. The increased heel height helps offload this tension,” says Michelle A. Morse, D.P.M., food and ankle surgeon at Atrius Health.
Hoka Bondi 9
Hoka
“Hoka’s Bondi line is one of the most cushioned on the market, offering significant shock absorption that helps reduce the load transferred up the legs and into the back,” says Alvarez. And he wasn’t the only one who recommended the Hoka Bondi—two other podiatrists also said this shoe is great for people with lower back pain. “The rocker-bottom sole encourages a smooth, efficient stride that minimizes pressure on the lower spine. It’s an excellent choice for people with chronic back discomfort or those walking long distances.”
Hoka Clifton 10
Hoka
Not as cushioned as the Bondi 9, the Clifton 10 still boasts plush cushioning and a rocker sole, both of which help absorb shock. It also has a slightly higher drop than the Bondi 9: 8 millimeters versus 5 millimeters. The Clifton 10 is the shoe that Kahlor recommends for back pain.
Oofos Ooahh Slide
Oofos
“Oofos are constructed with OOfoam technology that absorbs up to 37% more shock than traditional footwear, which will reduce shock transmitted into joints. Oofos shoes also promote natural foot motion,” says Anne Sharkey, D.P.M., FACFAS, founder of Solely Podiatry. These are perfect for wearing around the house because, remember, podiatrists say you shouldn’t go barefoot.
Asics Gel Nimbus 28
Asics
“This is a great neutral shoe with ample cushioning and a favorite of patients who have suffered from back pain,” says Sharkey. A second podiatrist also recommended the Asics Gel Nimbus. The cushioning in this shoe helps with shock absorption, which reduces the impact that travels up the legs and into the lower back.
Brooks Glycerin GTS 23
Amazon
“The Brooks Glycerin GTS is a great choice for those with flat feet and low back pain—they are constructed with stability elements in addition to the cushioning,” says Sharkey. The “GTS” part of the Brooks Glycerin signifies that it boasts more cushioning than the standard Glycerin version. In fact, Brooks describes the cushioning as “plush.” Plus, the built-in GuideRails technology helps stabilize the foot and minimize excess movement like overpronation.
Vionic Walk Strider Knit
Amazon
“Vionic shoes are all constructed with VioMotion technology, which encourages proper foot alignment and a cushioned midsole to help reduce impact forces,” says Sharkey. She suggests these sneakers for everyday walking and standing if you suffer from back pain. We think the monochromatic look of these shoes is more stylish than your typical sneakers, making them great for everyday wear or a trip.
