Top 7 Best Running Shoes For Heel Strikers And Tips

Heel striking is a common gait pattern among runners. Still, it can lead to discomfort and injuries if not appropriately addressed. A good running shoe can make all the difference for heel strikers, providing cushioning and support to minimize the impact on the heels. 

Unfortunately, only some running shoes are built for heel striking, and if you are a heel striker, you may need help finding the right shoe. In this article, we will explore the best running shoes for heel strikers and help you choose the perfect pair to enhance your running experience.

What is a Heel Striker? A Simple Explanation

A heel striker is a person who walks or runs in a way that their heel hits the ground first when taking a step. It’s like landing on your heel before the rest of your foot. Here’s a simple breakdown of what it means to be a heel striker:

Walking as a Heel Striker

When you walk as a heel striker, your heel makes contact with the ground before the rest of your foot. It’s the first part of your foot to touch the ground when you step. You might feel the impact on your heel when you walk this way.

Running as a Heel Striker?

Running as a heel striker means that, while running, your heel hits the ground first with each stride. This can create a jarring impact on your heels and is not the most efficient way to run.

How to Identify a Heel Striker?

You can identify a heel striker by watching how their feet land when they walk or run. If their heels consistently touch down first, they are heel strikers.

Why It Matters?

Being a heel striker is fine. Still, it can lead to discomfort and potential injuries over time, especially if you run long distances. The repeated impact on your heels can cause issues like heel pain or shin splints. 

Choosing the Right Shoes

If you are a heel striker, choosing the right shoes is essential. Look for running shoes that provide extra cushioning in the heel area and offer good support. These shoes can help reduce the impact on your heels and make walking or running more comfortable.

A heel striker lands on their heel when they walk or run. While this is a common way of moving, it can sometimes lead to discomfort and potential problems. Hence, selecting the right shoes is crucial for a more comfortable experience.

The 7 Best Running Shoes for Heel Strikers Review

We have just the list if you are looking for the perfect pair of running shoes to help you strike the ground with power and efficiency. Here are the seven best running shoes for heel strikers:

1- Brooks Ghost 15 Shoes

Are you a heel striker looking for the best running shoes to enhance your performance and comfort? Look at the Brooks Ghost 15 Running Shoes. These shoes are designed to provide a superior running experience, combining style, comfort, and innovation. 

Superior Comfort and Support: Brooks Ghost 15 delivers a smooth and comfortable ride. It features an updated DNA Loft V2 cushioning, ensuring a soft and quiet run.

The 3D fit print upper offers a seamless fit, providing excellent breathability for your feet. The engineered air mesh upper and nylon lining add comfort and support. It keeps your feet cool and well-ventilated during your runs.

Customizable Fit: These shoes come with a lace closure, allowing you to adjust the fit to your preference. It has a removable foam footbed adds an extra layer of customization for your comfort.

Stylish Design: The Brooks Ghost 15 sports a sleek and sporty look with the brand logo on the side, tongue, and heel. The almond toe shape adds style and gives your toes room to move comfortably.

Durable and Sustainable: The DNA Loft V2 midsole ensures a longer-lasting and stable shoe, even for the most dedicated runners. The carbon rubber outsole provides excellent traction and grip, making these shoes suitable for various terrains.

Not only are these shoes built to last, but they are also environmentally conscious. They are made with recycled materials equivalent to 8 plastic water bottles, and the primary materials contain a minimum of 20 percent recycled content.

Brooks Ghost 15 Running Shoes are the perfect choice for heel strikers who demand the best performance, comfort, and sustainability. Whether you’re hitting the track or pounding the pavement, these shoes will support you every step of the way.

Prepare to exude a sporty look and enjoy a soft, quiet ride with the Brooks Ghost 15. Take the chance to grab the exclusive coloring book with a Brooks Vibes Collection purchase while supplies last. Make every run your best run with these exceptional running shoes.

2- New Balance Fresh Foam More Trail v3 Shoes ( Best running shoe heel strikers )

Are you hunting for the best running shoes for heel strikers to provide unmatched comfort and support while navigating rugged terrains? Look no further than the New Balance Fresh Foam More Trail v3 Shoes. These shoes are designed to revolutionize outdoor adventures by offering a perfect blend of style, comfort, and performance.

1- Tough and Durable Build: These shoes come with a solid synthetic upper and a rugged edge, ensuring they can withstand rough conditions and protect you from the elements. Whether running on bumpy terrain or tackling exposed roots, these shoes have your back.

2- Comfortable Interior: Inside, you’ll find a soft and cozy textile lining that makes them a pleasure to wear on your outdoor adventures. The cushioned insole supports your feet, reducing fatigue and discomfort.

3- Customizable Fit: You can achieve a secure and personalized fit with the lace-up closure. Your feet will stay snug and well-supported no matter the terrain you’re conquering.

4- Cushioned Midsole: These shoes boast Fresh Foam and Vibram EcoStep Evo compound in the midsole, offering exceptional cushioning that feels like walking on a cloud. It’s especially great for those who strike with their heels, as it minimizes impact on your feet.

5- Toe Protection: These shoes feature extra protection at the toe, so you won’t have to worry about trail debris or uneven surfaces causing discomfort or injury.

6- Easy to Put On and Take Off: They’re designed for convenience with a pull tab on the back and tongue, making them hassle-free to slip on and off. This design feature enhances the overall user experience.

7- Roomy Toe Space: The round-toe design provides ample room for your toes, preventing discomfort or cramping during long runs or hikes.

8- Excellent Traction: The durable rubber outsole offers outstanding traction and durability. These shoes are perfect for outdoor activities.

Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility in nature, the New Balance Fresh Foam Trail v3 Shoes have been crafted to ensure your excursions are accessible on the feet while being visually appealing. These shoes are your best-running companions for heel strikers, promising unmatched comfort and support as you conquer challenging terrains.

3- FitVille Stride Core Wide Running Shoes

The FitVille Stride Core Wide Running Shoes are designed to provide maximum comfort and support for all runners, including heel strikers. These shoes feature a patented PropelCore sole that offers dynamic heel support. 

It is ideal for those who land heavily on their heels during their runs. The patented sole is designed to gradually adapt to your unique foot shape. It provides all-day comfort and body alignment with perfect heel, arch, and ankle support. 

This ensures that the shoe can effectively absorb and distribute the energy of each step evenly. It reduces the impact on the heels and minimizes the risk of injury. In addition to the patented sole, the Stride Core also features a removable orthotic.

It has an ergonomic memory sponge foam insole that offers cushioning comfort. The rigid rubber outsole provides solid gripping and motion stability. It is easier for heel strikers to maintain their balance and form during their runs.

The Stride Core’s lightweight knit upper is designed for unbeatable breathability. It keeps your feet cool and dry during your workout. The roomy toe box offers ample space for toes to spread naturally.

It is ideal for those with wide or average feet. Overall, the FitVille Stride Core Wide Running Shoes offer a variety of features designed to provide maximum comfort and support for heel strikers. 

The patented sole to the cushioning insole and breathable upper. These shoes are an excellent choice for a comfortable and supportive running shoe.

4- ASICS Gel-Cumulus 24 Running Shoes ( Heel strikers running shoes )

Asics Gel cushioning is a type of cushioning that is made up of tiny bubbles of gas or gas-filled liquids. This type of cushioning is designed to absorb the impact of your foot. When you hit the ground, it is also designed to return energy to your foot. as you transition between different phases of your gait cycle.

One of the benefits of using gel cushioning in your running shoes is that it can help reduce the shock you experience during your run. Additionally, gel cushioning can help to allow your foot to move in multiple planes as you transition through the gait cycle.

This can help to reduce the amount of stress that you experience on your feet and ankles. It can also help to improve your overall running performance. One of the most important benefits of using gel cushioning in your running shoes is that it can make your feet feel more comfortable.

This is because gel cushioning can help to create a soft landing and a responsive energy return. You will not experience as much pain or discomfort when you run. You will be able to run longer distances without experiencing any adverse effects.

The ASICS Gel-Cumulus 24 Running Shoes should be top for a running shoe with gel cushioning. These shoes are designed for use by various runners and are available in multiple colors and sizes.

Additionally, the FF BLAST cushioning in these shoes provides a soft landing and responsive toe-off. Suppose you want a running shoe to make your feet feel comfortable and responsive. Then, the ASICS Gel-Cumulus 24 running shoes should be at the top of your list.

5- Saucony Ride 15 Running Shoes

Running can be a great way to get fit and keep in shape, but it can also be hard on your feet. The Saucony Ride 15 Running Shoes are designed to make your running experience more comfortable and enjoyable.

The new softer PWRRUN formula means that this shoe style is thicker and has less weight. It makes them much more springy and cushioning. This makes them perfect for heel strikers, as they will enjoy a smoother stride.

The Saucony Ride 15 also has deeper contouring into the midsole, so you will sit in the shoe instead of on top. It provides unprecedented support and comfort. Its new heel and forefoot beveling gives you a smooth stride, propelling you effortlessly from heel to toe.

These shoes contour deeper into the midsole instead of on top of it. You sit into the shoe for an incredibly personalized and supportive fit. A wholly redesigned Ride 15 is what happens when softness, fit, and lightness are combined.

The Saucony Ride 15 is vegan and contains recycled upper materials, making them an environmentally friendly choice. If you want a great running shoe to make your runs much more enjoyable, the Saucony Ride 15 is perfect.

6- Adidas Puremotion Adapt Running Shoes ( Running shoes with heels )

The Adidas Running Puremotion Adapt running shoes are the ideal footwear for individuals seeking the best running shoes for heel strikers. These shoes are designed to provide the ultimate comfort and support while you conquer the roads during your early morning runs or any time of the day.

1- Predecessor: These shoes are unique because there’s nothing like them in the Adidas running shoe collection. They’re unique.

2- Support Type: The Puremotion Adapt running shoes are made for all kinds of feet. They give proper support to people whose feet are in the middle, not too flat or too arched.

3- Cushioning: These shoes are comfy because they have soft and flexible cushioning. This helps to protect your heels when you land while running, especially if you hit the ground with your heels first.

4- Surface: These shoes are perfect for running on roads, so if you like to run in the city or suburbs, they’re a great choice.

5- Upper Design: The top part of the shoes is made from a special mesh that lets air in. This helps your feet stay cool and dry. Instead of regular shoelaces, they use stretchy straps, which make them easy to put on and take off and give you a snug and comfy fit.

6- Tongue and Collar: The tongue and collar of the shoes are padded, so they feel nice on your feet. You can also use tabs to put the boots on and take them off quickly.

7- In-Shoe Feel: Inside the shoe, there’s a soft lining that makes your feet feel cozy and happy while you’re running.

8- Midsole: The middle part of the shoe has something called CloudFoam, which makes it even more comfortable to run in. It’s great for people who land on their heels when they run because it takes away some of the impact.

9- Heel Support: The back part of the shoes gives extra support to your heels. This is important, especially if you land on your heels when you run. It keeps your heels steady and safe.

10- Outsole: The bottom of the shoe is made from a special kind of rubber that sticks well to the ground. This means you won’t slip, making your runs smooth and safe on all surfaces.

The Adidas Running Puremotion Adapt running shoes are a fantastic choice for heel strikers looking for a reliable and comfortable option. With their neutral support, lightweight cushioning, and supportive heel construction, these shoes have all the features to enhance your running experience. 

The engineered mesh upper’s unique elastic strap design and breathability make it stand out in comfort and style. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting your journey, these shoes can help you perform your best on the road. So, lace up your Adidas Puremotion Adapt and confidently hit the road!

7- Reebok Nanoflex Parafit TR Cross Trainer Shoes

Looking for an easy-to-use, lightweight pair of shoes for your fitness routine? Look at the Reebok Nanoflex Cross Trainer Shoes! These shoes provide easy on and easy off and are perfect for people who need a shoe that offers both function and style.

The zip closure makes them easy to get in and out of. While the lightweight feel ensures that you have plenty of infectious energy when working out. And with the forefoot grooves increasing flexibility.

You will be able to enjoy your workouts to the fullest. The cushioned collar and tongue add extra comfort. It is the removable sock liner provides extra room for your feet. The breathable mesh upper is lightweight and durable.

These shoes have a responsive EVA midsole that ensures plenty of cushioning when you need it. The high-abrasion rubber outsole offers increased traction and durability.

So whether you are looking for a versatile training shoe or a comfortable pair of shoes on weekends, the Reebok Nanoflex Parafit TR Cross Trainer Shoes are the best option.

Top 7 Best Running Shoes For Heel Strikers Review In Video

Types of Heel Strikes

A few types of heel strikes can be used in martial arts. They all have their benefits and drawbacks.

Hammer Heel Strike

This strike is done with the heel pushed toward the floor and the leg lifted. This strike is mighty and can be used to knock your opponent down. It can also be used as an offensive move to start a fight or a defensive move to stop an attack.

Claw Heel Strike

The Claw Heel Strike is similar to the Hammer Heel Strike but with the toes pointed inward. This gives more leverage and power when doing the strike. It can also be used to trip your opponent or disarm them.

Crescent Heel Strike

The Crescent Heel Strike is a low-impact strike that uses the arch of your foot to generate momentum. It can be used for offensive or defensive purposes but is best suited for short-range combat.

Thrust Heel Strike

The Thrust Heel Strike is a powerful strike that uses your foot’s heel and the toes to force your opponent backward. It can be used for offensive or defensive purposes but is best suited for close-range combat.

The different heel strikes can be used with other martial arts techniques to create powerful attacks and defenses.

How to Choose the Best Running Shoes For Heel Strikers?

When it comes to selecting the best running shoes for heel strikers, there are a few things to consider:

Heel height

The heel height of the running shoes is significant because it affects the pressure on the heel while running. High heels increase this pressure, while low heels have a less pronounced effect.

Width

Running shoes come in different widths, which can impact the fit. For example, choose a narrower running shoe with a little foot.

Cushioning

Some running shoes have more cushioning than others, making them more comfortable. Heel strikers looking for a more supportive shoe should consider buying a model with lots of cushioning.

Type Of Motion

The type of motion that you use when running can also affect your shoe choice. Heel strikers who use a lot of forward motion (like runners in track and field) should choose shoes with more support and cushioning. Those who use more lateral movement (like runners in cross country) might prefer shoes with a less pronounced impact on the heel.

When choosing running shoes, it is essential to consider your heel height and type of motion. Additionally, choose a shoe with more cushioning or support if you are a heel striker.

Bounce Tips For Choose The Best Running Shoes For Heel Strikers

1- Your Feet’s Shape And Size

First, you must measure your feet using a ruler or paper. Once you have the measurements, compare them to the dimension chart below to see which running shoes fit best.

There is no one “correct” size for heel strikers, as each person’s feet shape and size are unique. However, most heel strikers will want to select running shoes that are a half size larger than their actual foot size. This will give them room to move and prevent the shoes from being too tight or loose.

2- The Type Of Heel Striker You Are

There are two main types of heel strikers: plantar flexors and abductors. Plantar flexors are the muscles that stretch and extend your toes, while abductors pull your toes toward your body.

If you are a plantar flexor heel striker, you will want running shoes with a higher heel height and softer cushioning. On the other hand, if you are an abductor heel striker. You will wish to run shoes with a lower heel height and harder cushioning.

3- The Type Of Terrain You Plan On Running On

Terrain can also dictate which type of running shoes you should choose. For example, if you plan on running on grass or trails, you will want to select running shoes with softer cushioning and a higher heel height. 

Conversely, suppose you plan on running on pavement. In that case, you will want to choose running shoes with harder cushioning and a lower heel height.

4- Your Style Of Running

Consider your running style when choosing the best shoes for heel strikers. If you are more aggressive and tend to run faster, select racing or training shoes with a higher heel height and softer cushioning. Conversely, if you prefer slower speeds and less aggression, choose running shoes with a lower heel height and harder cushioning.

5- The Type Of Shoe You Are Used To Wearing

If you are new to heel striking, it is essential to try on a few different types of shoes before making a purchase. This will allow you to find the running shoes that best fit your style and foot shape.

Once you have determined which type of running shoes fit your needs, it is time to find the best running shoes for heel strikers.

Causes of Heel Strikes

Heel strikers are a common problem among runners, and heel strikes are among the most common causes of running injuries. There are a few things you can do to reduce your chances of getting heel strikes: 

1- Replace your running shoes often. Heel strikers are more likely to occur with worn or unstable shoes. Replace your running shoes every 300 miles or every two years, whichever comes first.

2- Make sure your foot is fitted correctly for your shoe. Heel strikers are more likely to occur when the shoe doesn’t work well or is too tight. Have your feet measured and provided for the type of shoe you’re buying to get the most comfortable and stable fit possible?

3- Take care when landing on your heels after sprinting or jumping. Landing on your heels after running or jumping can cause undue stress on the Achilles tendon and other muscles in your lower leg, leading to heel strikes. Try to land on the balls of your feet instead.

4- Practice proper running form. Running on the heel can cause undue stress on your foot, Achilles tendon, and other muscles in your lower leg. Make sure to keep your foot planted firmly on the ground, and make sure you maintain good running form.

5- Warm up properly before your run. Heel strikes are more likely to occur when someone is cold or has not warmed up properly. Start your run by walking for a few minutes and then working your way into a full-blown jog.

6- Take care when crossing the finish line. Heel strikers are more likely to occur when someone crosses the finish line too quickly or without taking care. Try to pace yourself and cross the finish line slowly and deliberately.

7- Avoid running on surfaces that are wet or icy. These surfaces can be especially dangerous for heel strikers because they cause extra friction on the bottom of your foot.

If you are experiencing frequent heel strikes, consult a doctor to rule out any underlying causes. In the meantime, take some simple steps to reduce your chances of getting injured:

• Replace your running shoes often.
• Make sure your foot is fitted correctly.
• Warm up properly before your run.
• Take care when crossing the finish line.

Tips for Heel Strikers To Improve Running

If you are a heel striker, you know that your running form can be improved. Here are six tips to help improve your running condition:

1- Use a stable surface to run on. Heel strikers are more prone to instability when running on unstable surfaces. Using firm but forgiving surfaces like grass or concrete will help you maintain good form.

2- Make sure your foot is in the proper position. Make sure your toes and heels are pointing straight ahead while running. If your feet are out of alignment, it will cause strain on your ankles, knees, and hips, which can lead to injury.

3- Breathe correctly. When you breathe, ensure your stomach rises and falls with each inhale and exhale. This will help remove pressure from your ankle, knee, and hip joints.

4- Avoid over-striding. Over-striding is when you take significant steps instead of small ones while running, which can lead to injuries. Keep your strides under 8 inches wide if possible.

5- Be patient with yourself. It may take some time for heel strikers to adjust their running form, but patience is key to better results!

Safe Heel Striking Running

Running is a great way to exercise but can also be dangerous if you’re not careful with your footing. Always keep your heel down when running to reduce the risk of falling. Here are four tips for safe heel-striking running:

1- Use a more pronated (flat) foot strike when running on hard surfaces. This will reduce the risk of rolling your ankle or foot.

2- Keep your weight balanced on both feet when running. This will help prevent falls.

3- Ensure you land lightly on your heels when you finish a step or run. This will help reduce the chance of heel spurs, which can cause pain and inflammation in your heels and toes.

4- Use caution when crossing roads or other dangerous areas while running. Always watch for traffic and stay aware of your surroundings.

Conclusion

Running can be a great way to exercise and get your heart rate up, but it can also be painful if you don’t have the right shoes. If you are a heel striker, then you know that finding the right running shoes is essential. These are for avoiding tendonitis, Plantar Fasciitis, Achilles Tendinitis, and other heel-related injuries. 

This article will review some of the best running shoes for heel strikers and give tips. After reading this article, you will better understand what goes into selecting the best running shoe for your needs and find a pair that works perfectly for you!

FAQs

Here are some questions and answers for choosing the best running shoes for heel strikers: