Do your walking shoes tend to wear out quicker than you expect? Take a look at the soles of an old pair of walking shoes and if the soles are worn out on the outside of the heel, you are suffering from supination.
Perhaps more notably from the outward rolling of your foot as you walk is the pain of all your weight being transferred to the outer edges of your feet. There are no medications you can take to stop that outward roll, but you can correct it with the use of proper footwear.
We will take a look at our top picks for the best walking shoes for supination (underpronation) and what should you consider when choosing these shoes.
Here are the best walking shoes for supination for women & men
Wearing those old worn-out shoes can actually make your supination worse, as it increases the roll outwards of your foot. In this guide, we will take a look at the following five notable shoes which are suitable for treating the various symptoms or problems linked to supination.
1. Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Vent Mid Hiking Boot
The most rugged of all the walking shoes we have reviewed, the Merrell MOAB Ventilator is a lightweight hiking boot for the more adventurous supinators. An EVA contoured footbed features an added zonal arch and extra heel support.
- Pigskin leather and mesh upper
- Metal hook traditional lace closure
- Bellows tongue keeps out debris
- Protective toe cap
- Breathable mesh lining
2. Brooks Men’s Dyad Walker
Although we have looked at the men’s version, the Dyad Walker is also available for women too. A lightweight sneaker, it features full length cushioning with crashpad technology to absorb the impacts you often suffer from supination. U-Groove technology promotes a more natural motion of your foot as you walk.
3. ASICS Men’s Gel-Venture 6 Shoe
Asics have designed this shoe to be suitable for people with supination as well as a normal gait. A Gel cushioning system provides more comfort to the rearfoot and helps to disperse the forces of impact as your foot lands.
- Rearfoot GEL Cushioning System: Attenuates shock during impact phase and allows for a smooth transition to midstance.
- Removable Sockliner: A sockliner which can be removed to accommodate a medical orthotic.
- Trail Specific Outsole: Reversed lugs provide uphill and downhill traction on all types of terrain.
- AHAR Outsole: Acronym for ASICS High Abrasion Rubber. Placed in critical areas of the outsole for exceptional durability.
- Imported
4. Viakix Hiking Sandal for Women
When you talk about walking shoes for supination, you don’t immediately think of sandals. However, an EVA arch supporting midsole and custom fit durable webbing make these the ideal casual sandals for supinators. Once strapped in, there’s nowhere for your feet to roll.
5. New Balance 665 Women’s Fitness Walking Shoe
New Balance has used many of the technologies developed for their running shoes in this best walking shoe for supination. A walking strike path feature aims to correct your stride and any potential underpronation as you walk.
- Walking shoe in breathable mesh with removable padded insole, ABZORB cushiong, and non-marking outsole with Walking Strike Path technology
Read Also:
Reviews of The Best Walking Shoes for Underpronators
With such a wide choice of shoes available for arch support or supination, how do you know which ones to choose? Should you go for a running shoe which is designed for supination or stick to a shoe designed specifically for walking?
There is no one shoe fits all for everybody’s needs so we have taken a look at five very different top selling walking shoes for supination below. Later to help you decide which is best for you, we have included what you should consider in the best walking shoe for supination.
5. Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Vent Mid Hiking Boot
Merrell is known as an exceptional manufacturer of hiking boots and trail shoes. “MOAB” actually stands for Mother of All Boots but this is lightweight enough to be used as a walking shoe.
Men’s version also available:
What makes this hiking boot especially suitable for supinators, especially those with high arches, is an EVA contoured foam footbed with zonal arch support. Extra heel support and cushioning ensure any shocks from potential supination are evenly dispersed throughout the entire foot.
A breathable mesh lining combines with a performance suede leather and mesh upper for a shoe which features all-day breathability. A Vibram traction sole adds more stability and traction which can be vital when you supinate, especially on rougher terrain.
Pros
- Mesh and suede leather upper for more flexibility and style.
- Excellent Merrell developed technology in the build for durability, yet still lightweight.
- Extra heel cushioning adds comfort and evenly distributes any impact forces.
- Zonal arch support with EVA contoured midsole.
- Removable insoles if you want to fit custom orthotics.
- Medium and wider widths are also available.
Cons
- Sizes can run small and you should order half a size bigger, especially if fitting your custom orthotics to them.
- Not waterproof as standard, although a waterproof version is available.
- Can be tight in the toe box for some users.
- Not suitable for lower arches as arch support can be quite hard.
| If you thought hiking was out of the question with your supination, think again with these quality hiking boots/trail shoes from Merrell. The contoured EVA midsole could provide enough arch support and cushioning around the heel to help ease the pain of supination on even the most adventurous of hikes. |
2. Brooks Men’s Dyad Walker
This smart leather walking shoe from Brooks is a top quality sneaker which features a full-length S-257 Cushsole in the middle of the foot for plush cushioning and flexibility. An improved U-Groove technology ensures the heel follows a more natural path of motion.
Also available as a women’s walking shoe:
A crash pad that runs the length of this shoe adapts to how your foot lands and delivers a smoother transition from the heel strike to the toes. Pressure zones within the shoe distribute pressure evenly throughout the body, avoiding many of the injuries to the hip or lower calves from supination.
Although the blown oversize rubber outer sole features support pods, if you also have high arches you may need to invest in some custom orthotics for more support. Fortunately, these shoes feature a removable inner which allows you to customize the shoe to fit.
Pros
- Durable leather uppers for style and weather resilience.
- Slip-resistant soles with support pods for more stability.
- Full length cushioning with neutral support.
- Removable inners for fitting your own orthotics.
- U-Groove technology in the midsole corrects any unnatural gait of the foot including supination.
- Breathable inner textile linings.
- Crashpad technology can prevent joint injuries and pain.
- Wider and medium width sizes are available.
Cons
- Quite chunky, with the appearance of an orthopedic shoe.
- Lacking in support if you have high arches.
- The leather upper is not too breathable.
| Excellent cushioning and lightweight construction make this a smart choice for both male and female supinators. The adaptable proprietary cushioning can actually adjust to weight and speed as you walk. And U-Groove technology aims to correct the supination and promote a more natural gait. |
3. ASICS Men’s Gel Venture 6
Although often listed as a running shoe, the high abrasion outsole with multi-directional traction lugs makes this an ideal trail walking shoe. The added grip and durability of this shoe along with the superior cushioning is perfect for cross-country supinator walkers.
In contrast to many shoes which are designed for supinators with flat feet, the Gel Venture 6 accommodates walkers with a normal to high arch who supinate. What really stands out in these walking shoes is a rearfoot GEL cushioning to absorb the shocks as you walk those country trails.
Stresses caused by supination on the feet require more cushioning to the heel and forefoot with the toes doing more work than average. The Venture 6 may not feature the same cushioning under the forefoot as the GEL technology at the rear, but a removable sock liner allows for adding your own insoles or orthotics.
Pros
- Firm trail walking shoe with moderate support for men who supinate.
- Gel cushioning to protect your heel.
- Excellent traction with hard wearing high abrasion outsole.
- Designed for normal to high arch support.
- Removable sock liner allows for further orthotics to be fitted.
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide fittings.
Cons
- Not waterproof.
- Cheaper quality materials used than previous models of this shoe.
- The normal sizes can run quite narrow.
| If you have previously thought trail walking with your supination was too painful or risky, the ASICS Gel Venture 6 aims to correct that. Gel cushioning around the heel absorbs all those shocks you may encounter on surfaces more demanding than the usual sidewalk. |
4. Viakix Hiking Sandals for Women
You probably didn’t think you could get sandals that offer excellent arch support, but the cushioned ergonomic EVA foam midsole of these sandals do just that. A comfortable, customized fit uses adjustable straps at the front for a sandal which can fit almost any width of the foot and keep it secure.
Crafted with a durable webbing attached to a rugged rubber outsole, these sandals can provide comfort and arch support all day long for supinators who lead a more outdoor life. They are both lightweight and water ready with the quick-drying webbing.
The EVA foam sole cushions your feet from the forefront to the heel and can absorb many shocks with the attached thick supportive rubber outsole. Using only durable materials, these sandals are just as suited to hanging out down at the beach or more demanding outdoor walking adventures.
Pros
- Lightweight, easy to pack, and quick to dry after use.
- Attractive and fashionable.
- Ergonomic EVA foam midsole offers excellent arch support and absorbs impact.
- Full length cushioning of the foot.
- Customizable fit with adjustable straps can prevent the foot from supinating.
- Extra traction on the rugged rubber outsole for more stability.
- 30-day no questions asked money-back guarantee if you are dissatisfied.
Cons
- Not suitable for people with low arches or flat feet.
- No protection to the upper part of your feet.
- Synthetic materials can make your feet sweaty.
| Don’t let your supination spoil your everyday life too, these attractive sandals are ideal for everyday use from down on the beach to walking with friends. An EVA foam bed with midsole cushioning offers excellent arch support with cushioning to absorb any impacts or shocks as you walk. |
5. New Balance 665 Women’s Fitness Walking Shoe
Perhaps the first thing you will notice about this walking shoe is how attractive it is with its gentle color schemes (black, white, blue, pink, and purple). It’s not as chunky as some other walking shoes, but don’t let first appearances fool you. This is one of the most supportive walking shoes you can find.
Walking strike path technology in the durable rubber sole of this New Balance shoe is designed to correct your stride and prevent supination. Another great feature is the ABZORB technology in the midfoot which absorbs much of the impact which can make supination pain and injuries more frequent.
A cushioned heel, toe area, and midfoot ensures a more comfortable walking experience with a padded tongue and collar to prevent friction. Strategically placed mesh makes these shoes highly breathable with a lightweight yet durable construction that you will hardly notice you are wearing them.
Pros
- Durable sole with stride correcting Walking Strike Path technology running down the entire foot.
- Well cushioned and ideal for relieving the pain of supination.
- Padded tongue and collar prevent rubbing on your ankles.
- ABZORB technology impact and shock absorbing midsole.
- Breathable and won’t make your foot feel suffocated.
- Attractive and affordable lightweight walking shoe.
Cons
- Sizing tends to run on the narrow side.
- Not weatherproof or suitable for winter walks.
| With this walking shoe, New Balance has managed to create a lightweight and comfortable walking shoe with an attractive design for women. The advanced Abzorb and Walking Strike Path technologies ensure your walk is more comfortable while correcting the outward roll in your stride. |
What Is Supination?
Supination, to explain it quite simply, is when your foot rolls outward as you walk. The outer lateral side of your heel hits the walking surface at a greater angle which prevents your foot from rolling adequately inwards on impact.
Also known as underpronation, pronation is a term for your foot movements as you take each step. Neutral pronation means your foot stays in the middle of your stride, neither rolling inward nor outward, with weight distributed evenly. However, when your feet start rolling out all the weight is transferred to the outer edge of your foot.
According to the Medical News Today Journal, excessive supination is far less common than overpronation—where the foot rolls inwards. Some shoe manufacturers even quote figures of less than 10 percent of the population suffering from supination—although there are no official statistics which have been verified.
If you are unlucky enough to be one of those 10 percent, you will know for sure the pain it can cause. As your feet hit the ground, the shocks are not properly distributed and places more impact on your ankles, lower legs, and certain parts of the feet. Some of the more common injuries caused by supination include:
- Plantar fasciitis.
- Stress fractures of the toes or your tibia.
- Shin splints.
- Sprained or twisted ankles.
What Causes Supination?
Structural problems in the feet which may be causing the supination are usually down to genetics and inherited. If your mother or father suffered from supination, there’s a good chance you will too. However, it’s not all down to your genes, external factors can also contribute to the condition.
Leg length, the width of the foot, and ankle stability are all genetic factors which can affect the mechanics of your feet. The shape of your foot arch can also increase the chances of supination, with runners who have high arches shown to be more likely to suffer from supination.
External factors that can increase the risk of supination include:
- Body misalignment, especially poor form or posture when exercising.
- Prior injury to the bones or tissues—people with Achilles tendonitis can be more at risk of supination, for example.
- A sedentary lifestyle.
- Too much constant impact on hard or firm surfaces.
- A restricted range of motion.
- Standing for too long and constant periods of time.
- Too much physical exercise.
- Improper footwear.
Of course, that’s where this guide comes in—the choice of proper footwear to deal with underpronation or supination. But first, how can you tell if you supinate when you walk?
How to Recognise Supination?
This YouTube video shows an example of excessive supination as seen from the front of a person in walking or training shoes.
Looking at your old training or walking shoes can give you an idea of whether you are a supinator. If the soles of your shoes are worn out on the outer lateral side of your ankle, chances are you are supinating. In people with a normal gait, the outer sole will tend to wear out from the outer edge of the heel towards the center of the shoe.
A simple wet test you can perform at home can also show any signs of supination. Wet your feet thoroughly before stepping firmly onto a suitable surface which shows the footprint—a brown paper bag or concrete tile is ideal. If only a fraction or even none of your arch is visible in the footprint it suggests you have supination issues.
Unfortunately, it’s not always that easy to see. A physical therapist or podiatrist will be able to carry out a thorough gait analysis if you suspect you are experiencing supination. It usually involves just walking or running on a specialized platform and doesn’t take too much time or effort.
Preventing Supination of the Feet
Choosing the best corrective footwear is perhaps the best way of preventing or treating the pain of supination. Flexible and lightweight running or walking shoes for underpronators with extra cushioning can help relieve the pain.
Orthotic insoles which cater for underpronation can be another option, although custom-made insoles recommended by many podiatrists can be expensive. You should never wear shoes or insoles which are worn out and may increase the outwards roll of your foot.
A physical therapist can sometimes work with you to strengthen the muscles in your legs and feet which can loosen any tight tendons to prevent more pain. This assists you in a better weight distribution throughout your entire body which can correct supination. Some yoga poses may also help to strengthen the arches of your feet and stabilize it.
What to Look for in the Best Walking Shoes for Supination (Underpronation)
Not all walking shoes designed for people with foot issues will properly accommodate your needs with supination. Just because a shoe says it’s designed for flat feet, high arches, or features extra cushioning doesn’t mean it will necessarily be the best for you. Take the following features into account when choosing the best walking shoe.
Cushioned Heel
You will want a shock absorbing design which dampens the forces as your heel strikes the ground. Cushioning around the heel can further help distribute the impact forces more evenly. A footbed which features a heel cradle can allow it to be held securely in position as you walk.
You should also look for a low heel to toe drop which can allow for a more measured and normal stretch of the Achilles tendon. A padded collar can help to position and protect the heel properly while preventing rubbing, which may cause inflammation.
Supportive Midsole and Arch of the Shoe
The sole should feature some flexibility which can allow any natural pronation movements of the foot to occur. Support underneath the arch of the foot can help to distribute the forces of impact more with every step. Make sure you choose the right arch support for your foot and it should extend to the whole length and width of the shoe.
Uniform cushioning of the insole can further prevent uneven pressures and add more comfort. Check whether the insole is removable if you need to add custom orthotics if the supination should worsen. Non-slip insoles are also a good choice to prevent any further rolling or slipping of the foot.
Durable Outsole
Walking with an under pronounced pronation can make you more likely to slip and can be extremely painful due to the angle of your ankles. A sole should have torsional resistance which cannot be twisted too easily.
You will also need a durable sole with a good level of traction for more stability. The sole should distribute pressure evenly along the full length of the sole with full-length midsole support too.
The heel width of the sole should not be too wide either, which could increase the already off center strike of a heel.
Vented Uppers of the Walking Shoe and the Lining
Heat and perspiration in the foot region can make already painful feet so much more agonizing. Ensure any walking shoe you choose for supination has a breathable material in the upper and lining. Mesh or all grain leather with ventilation vents tend to offer the most comfort, but may not always be weatherproof.
Internal linings should aim to reduce rubbing or irritation of the foot with padding or inserts at critical areas like the heel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Having decided on the best walking shoes for supination for your feet, you may still have a few more questions about this painful condition. Here are three of the more commonly asked questions by supinators.
Can You Get Surgical Help with Supination?
Although you may have received medical intervention for many of the injuries caused by supination, surgery is not normally performed for the supination itself. A ruptured tendon may require surgery, but with supination being about the bones and biomechanics of the foot surgery is only performed in extreme circumstances.
Can You Correct Supination?
Yes, definitely. The correct shoes can help prevent your feet from rolling outwards as we have seen, and some will encourage you to change your gait. Orthopedic specialists can help with physical therapy which retrains your walk with orthotic supports helping keep the gait neutral.
What’s the Difference between Supination and Pronation?
Supination and pronation are both natural processes which occur in your hands or feet. It’s only when you excessively supinate, or underpronate or overpronate, that the natural gait is off balance and abnormal pressures can cause pain to the feet and other injuries.
Pronation is an important process for shock absorption, with the foot rolling inwards slightly as it hits the ground. This process is known as eversion.
Supination is the exact reverse with the foot turning outwards so it pushes the foot up from the ground and is called inversion.
Go Walk About
So everybody supinates to some extent, but that doesn’t mean we all need specialized walking shoes for supination. If you feel a pain in the back of your feet or your shoes are wearing out more quickly than you expected then supination may be the cause.
All the products we covered in this article are good in relieving the pain of excess supination.
Wish you happy walking.
2 thoughts on “The Best 5 Walking Shoes for Supination in 2023”
Love walking in Scotland but always had a bit of pain and a lot of wear on the outside of my shoes and boots ,
Your explanation really help understanding the problem and how to remedy,
Will be off to get a new pair of trail shoes shortly
Many thanks
Thank you so much for the information, but especially the video which is similar to the way my left foot over supinates, I also have very high arches and, over the years, have sprained my ankles more times then I can count. My brother has the same problem except he does not have high arches.
I had my knees replaced in January and February last year and, while the angle that my left knee bent out to the side seems to have cleared up, my ankles still wobble about. Without shoes on, my left foot rolls to the outer edge of my foot.
I had tried on a pair of Womens Lowa Renegade GTX® Mid hiking boots and it was amazing for the time I could walk around the store. But, since I’m still walking with 2 canes it’s hard to justify almost $300.
Are these boots a viable 2nd place until I’m really moving about- MERRELL WOMEN’S MOAB 2 VENT MID HIKING BOOT?
I know you can’t make a medical determination here but based on some of the other answers here, I thought I’d give it a try.
5-25-20