Best Stability Running Shoes 2020: Revel in Comfortable Running!

Some runners have to deal with certain conditions like bunions or bad knees, but others have their flat feet or low arch to be concerned about. I’ve also had my fair share of these struggles and getting through every stride while over-pronating is also one of them. That’s when I knew I had to give up a few bucks on the best stability running shoes if I want to indulge in great comfort and relief.

Overpronation or flat feet are a common issue on many runners. Also known as the low arch or fallen arch, people who over pronate tend to feel discomfort, pain, and may even suffer from other foot problems because their foot slightly rolls inwards, particularly when running. Therefore, they need more stability and finding stability running shoes with exceptional and heavy-duty caliber is the quick and ideal resolve.

As usual, I’ve sifted through from brand to brand and compared their features to find the topnotch stability running shoes for men and women. Take a look at these best picks!

What are Stability Running Shoes?

Stability running shoes are specially designed for people who over-pronate or have a low arch or flat fleet. Because optimum support and cushion are imperative, they are typically constructed with thick and rigid soles. However, they tend to feel heavier compared to regular running shoes.

Apart from the reinforced density of foam and midsoles, this type of shoe usually exhibits a semi-curved last for superb resilience, responsiveness, and overall foot support. This structure helps runners with flat feet or low arch to control over pronating and thus, keep up with their natural motion.

As these stability running shoes can control and even stop the foot from rolling inwards, you can definitely enjoy running without pain and discomfort.

6 Best Stability Running Shoes for Men 2020

1. The Comfortable Fit and Seamless Transition: Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 18

Of all the stability running shoes I’ve found, the Adrenaline GTS 18 definitely stepped up with its preeminent features that define incredible comfort, seamless transition, and excellent stability. The highlight is probably the BioMoGo DNA midsole cushioning that dynamically supports your natural gait cycle and stride.

As for someone who needs stability, the reinforced midsole cushioning plays a significant role to manage overpronation. Aside from this, Adrenaline GTS 18 features a Segmented Crash Pad for the additional support on any foot landing and soft and smooth transition every time you run.

Streamlined with a mesh upper for breathability and the asymmetrical 3D Fit Print and TPU saddle, these sleek running shoes provide a cozy and secure fit and help you maintain excellent stability and keep your feet from rolling inwards while you run.

Another thing to be fascinated by these shoes is its lightweight feature. Weighing only 10oz, it is relatively lighter than many stability running shoes, knowing that they are typically heavy. Therefore, this Adrenaline GTS 18 is definitely a steal.

2. The Smooth Ride and Lightweight Stability Shoes: HOKA ONE ONE Arahi

Some stability shoes with older technology use very tough and heavy brick-like high-density foam that delivers an uncomfortable feel and pretty much like squeezing the foot. However, Hoka One One refurbished this technology and came up with the Dynamic Stability or also known as the J-frame, which offers a really smooth cushion ride and hence, gives you the support you need. The impressive part is its lightness.

Furthermore, it has a breathable upper with snug and comfortable fit to make sure feet are well-ventilated and therefore, wards off the odor and moisture buildup.

Arahi running shoes are lightweight stability shoes, but they do not compromise the support and cushion required to maintain the stability. The 3D puff print frame does a significant job on this part. The revamped technology smoothes out the ride and transition and also enhances the responsiveness. Thanks to the early stage Meta-rocker.

As it bolsters up the stability, Arahi reduces and even stops your foot from rolling inwards; it guides your foot through its natural gait cycle, so you can feel comfortable at all times.

3. The Low-cost and Therapeutic Relief: ASICS GT-1000 7

The best stability running shoes for your feet won’t always have to come with a hefty price tag. And at a low cost, you can give your feet the needed support with these GT-1000 from Asics. Aside from the stability perks, these shoes showcase the Flytefoam technology that helps your feet to move in a smooth motion and benefit from a responsive ride.

If you want to know how it also stands out in this vast lineup, you should take note of its exceptional technology known as the DuoSupport Max System that provides a dual-density foam to ensure superior comfort, support, and stability. Not to mention the Rearfoot Gel Cushioning System that does its job to attenuate the shock on every impact. Therefore, you can indulge in great relief and comfort every time you run.

Asics also keeps up with the other high-end running shoes with their patented technologies such as the Guidance Line for the enhanced gait efficiency and the AHAR or Asics High Abrasion Rubber, the component of the outsoles that reinforce the shoe’s durability.

4. The Well-cushioned and Wide: Adidas Men’s Supernova M

You’re all good and safe when you are choosing stability running shoes with a wide toe box and that’s probably why the Supernova M from Adidas deserves a spot on this lineup. Many also rave about its exceptional cushioning that reinforces the responsiveness, allowing you to move swiftly and smooth while taking the road and trails for running.

The flexible Stretchweb outsole boosts the midsole which is responsible for delivering energy-returning ride and reliable responsiveness.

Many users and runners also take advantage of its snug fit and comfort on long-distance runs which can define its resilience and reliability for longer miles and any foot landing. But, what I really like about these shoes is the wide toe box, as mentioned before.

I’ve noticed that Adidas tend to run narrow on the forefoot. But, surprisingly, the Supernova M excels with a nice tweak on the toe box this time, which many runners with flat feet can benefit from. It’s also true to size and the excellent arch support embraces your feet with ample support and therefore, can adapt to your foot’s natural motion.

These Adidas stability shoes are also engineered with lightweight upper mesh that provides optimum ventilation and comfortable fit.

5. The Cozy Fit and Breathable: NIKE Men’s Lunarglide 6

Lunarglide 6 showcases an exceptional platform that helps manage and even correct pronation issues, particularly those who have been struggling with overpronation. It has denser foam midsoles redefine the stability to ensure you get all the support and balance you need when running.

I also love how the outsoles and midsoles are intricately engineered for remarkable stability and durability. The Pressure Mapped Outsole Design provides reliable traction and reinforces stability. Incorporated with flex grooves, the shoe becomes more flexible that supports and enhances the natural gait cycle and keeps the feet comfortable all the time.

I also think that the mesh construction on the upper contributes significantly on the weight and overall design of these Nike shoes. Apart from the optimum ventilation, it provides a cozy and snug fit.

6. The Responsive and Plush Fit: Saucony Men’s Guide 10

If you’re after the responsiveness and plush fit, the Guide 10 must be the ideal pick for you. Streamlined with the Everun technology, the midsoles deliver an efficient response and therefore, relay a smooth ride and exceptional stability.

Some runners weren’t really fond of the cushioning, but I actually like how Saucony tailored plenty of cushioning around the ankle. Besides, everyone with flat feet really needs optimum support and cushioning to maintain stability.

When it comes to the aesthetic features, it may not be the most attractive you can find out there or when you put it up beside Adidas or Nike. But it’s all about the features; it is very comfortable, flexible, lightweight, and no break-in is needed.

6 Best Stability Running Shoes for Women 2020

1. The Dynamic Fit and Well-Cushioned: ASICS Women’s Gel-Kayano 23

Apart from its stunning aesthetic features, the Gel Kayano 23 is bound by three remarkable technologies – Flytefoam, Dynamic DuoMax, and Rearfoot and Forefoot Gel technology – of which make these stability shoes revolutionary and worth every penny.

I like how Asics takes exciting tweaks with their styles and features and with this Gel Kayano 23, I do find stellar qualities that enhance the natural gait cycle and deliver optimum support and smooth transition. The Flytefoam provides exceptional cushioning that spruces up the consistency and comfort during long runs.

Working on the ultimate stability on every stride is the Dynamic DuoMax technology, which I think is the highlight of these running shoes. And of course, running is better, more enjoyable, and less vulnerable to injuries when there’s excellent shock absorption. And that’s how the Rearfoot and Forefoot technology works. They are true to size and lightweight.

2. The Durable and Comfort Haven: Brooks Women’s Ariel ’16

I’ve always been a fan of Brooks and these Ariel 16 running shoes have summed up the essentials I also look for in a stability shoe – superior cushioning, receptive response, and adjustable support. Each aspect is backed up with superb technology and materials that ensure exceptional durability and unprecedented performance.

Although the price tag is still up for discussion, it’s worth an investment because of its great arch support and comfortable width that severe overpronators may find it definitely a comfort haven. The Segmented Crash Pad and the Durable HPR Green outsole deliver premium traction and remarkable resistance to skid.

While the external heel counter helps manage the stability of your foot, the Super DNA midsole lends maximum cushioning and enhances the energy return and support. Apart from these, I also like how the support is adjustable because of the structured saddle. They are lightweight and feel cool as well due to the durable mesh upper.

3. The Supportive and Rigid: Mizuno Women’s Wave Inspire 13

If you want to elevate your performance, here’s what you have to know about the Wave Inspire 13: it is well-cushioned, has roomy toe box, responsive, and a stunning revamp of its predecessors. Truly, Mizuno amplified the features that make firm stability shoes with an extremely supportive base.

It is designed with Double Fan Wave and U4IC Midsole Foam that runners who have severely pronated feet can take advantage of; it has midsoles that provide superb response and durability and the double wave that delivers optimum support and stability.

To make sure your feet won’t be caught up with odor and moisture buildup, the Inspire 13 is crafted with mesh upper that promotes proper ventilation. It also adds comfort, keeping your flat feet fresh and cool all the time.

4. The Comfort Upgrade and Ultralightweight: ASICS Women’s Gel-Kayano 24

Asics preserved the technologies they’ve utilized with the Gel Kayano 23 – the Dynamic DuoMax, the Rearfoot and Forefoot Gel, and the Flytefoam. These signature technologies provide reliable stability, traction, and smooth transition on every stride.

It seems the same as the Gel Kayano 23, but Asics made a few revamps on the stability with the use of the Personal Heel Fit foam and another tweak on the inner lining around it. Putting it up beside the Gel Kayano 23, the Gel Kayano 24 feels a bit better, like about 5%.

I’ve also noticed a few tweaks on the upper. With just one touch, I could feel it’s much more comfortable than the previous version although it still uses the Fluidfit technology on the mesh. Overall, the difference is just by a hair in terms of comfort and stability. But of course, upgrades also come with an increase in price.

Nonetheless, this newer version wraps up the shoe with a great fit for your flat feet or low arch. I’ve had it with a couple of runs and surprisingly, it catches up. The toe box may still feel a little narrow but the depth is just enough for the toes to wiggle.

5. The Ultimate Cushioning and Heavy-Duty Design: Brooks Women’s Addiction 13

Another entry from Brooks is the Addiction 13, which is specially designed for overpronation. Compared to its predecessor, the Addiction 12, this upgrade boasts its maximum cushioning using the DNA technology blended with another component, the BioMoGo for constant comfort and stable ride.

With such compound, it helps control pronation and also manages gait efficiency. And while it provides a seamless transition as it adapts to the natural gait cycle, the Segmented Crash Pad provides additional stability and flexibility for better and smoother landings.

Like what I expect on many stability shoes, the Addiction 13 exhibits high-density midsoles which promote stability, however, can feel a bit heavy and stiff at times. The mesh upper si lightweight and moisture-wicking to keep the feet cool and dry every time you run.

6. The Flexible and Resilient: Saucony Women’s Redeemer ISO

The Redeemer ISO is a sleek and modest design streamlined with their patented IBR+ outsoles that ensure resilience but without affecting the overall weight. These stability shoes are lightweight and perform with excellent traction and flexibility, allowing the overpronators to revel in the smooth and soft ride.

With the promising flexibility, runners with flat feet can move naturally as the shoe adapts to the runner’s natural gait cycle. Apart from the rigid outsoles, I found the PWRGRID+ midsole unit an essential reinforcement to provide maximum cushioning and support.

 Although the combination of the soles may come a bit heavy, it helps correct the pronation. As it also works to attenuate shock on every impact phase, I’d say that the overall structure can be a dependable design for many overpronating runners.

Why You Should Wear Stability Shoes

If you want to revel in comfortable running, it can take a lot of trial and errors to find the perfect fit for your feet. It might seem a difficult thing to do, but if you have flat feet or you struggle with overpronation, stability running shoes are definitely the ideal pick. But, why?

Does it make a difference if you wear stability shoes? It does. A lot.

As what I have mentioned before, if you have flat feet or low arch, you tend to overpronate or your feet slightly roll inwards. Without optimum support and cushioning, you will experience pain, discomfort, and might even suffer from other foot problems. Bunions, heel pain, back pain, and knee pain, for example.

Therefore, plenty and rigid support and cushion along the ankle are imperative. And if you want to know how stability shoes work on your flat feet, take a look at the following perks of wearing one:

How to Choose the Best Stability Running Shoes

Comfort and Size

There should be at least a thumb width of space between your big toe and the shoe on the toe box to keep your feet in the utmost comfort when you are running. You don’t want your toes to be pinched out or narrowed in or your toes butting in the edge of the shoe; you should be able to wiggle your toes inside for maximum comfort.

You should also make sure that the upper is not squeezing your toes or the fabric on the upper does not rub against your skin. Otherwise, it will cause irritations and hot spots. If it’s too big, however, your heel would be slipping out.

Also, make sure that the sock is not sliding out of your shoe. That is why it is vital to be very careful in finding the correct size.

Another thing to be wary about before you choose the best stability shoes is your knee or foot condition. You should consider what you feel or what condition you’ve been suffering from.

You might have gotten into an accident, jacked up your knee, been recovering from surgery, or maybe you have arthritis, bunions or other foot-related problems that need to be carefully considered.

Support and Heel Cushioning

People with flat feet or have the low arch or fallen arch need plenty of cushioning and support. As mentioned, due to the condition where the foot slightly rolls inwards, stability should be amplified and therefore, optimum cushioning and support can definitely make a lot of difference in terms of comfort, fit, smooth landings, and overall performance.

Every brand has its respective patented technology that enhances the cushioning and support and therefore, helps correct pronation and provides efficient stability benefits. Just make sure you get the right amount of cushioning you need according to what best suits you and which feels the most comfortable.

Midsoles

Midsoles are an integral part of a stability shoe. With such shoe type, high-density midsole foam is usually available which helps maintain the stability and integrity of the runner’s gait cycle.

Due to its thickness, some stability shoes feel heavier than the others while many brands have found smart ways to ramp up the stability and provide reliable support without rendering additional weight.

Then again, each brand utilizes a specific technology to provide rigid and reliable midsoles and also outsoles, to deliver superb stability and responsive shock absorption on every impact.

Ventilation

It is very important for your feet to feel cool and dry at all times. Moisture buildup can foster the growth of bacteria which can lead to bad odor and other potential foot problems. Therefore, ventilation is imperative.

The upper unit usually is responsible for maintaining the breathability of the shoe. Most designs exhibit durable mesh construction and skin friendly or healthy fabrics to keep your foot free from moisture and irritations at the same time.

Frequently Asked Questions: Stability Running Shoes

What are the main features of stability running shoes?

The focal points of a stability shoe are the midsoles and cushioning. They work to stabilize the feet from rolling inwards and help manage pronation. At times, they are referred to as motion control shoes due to its cushioning properties that render optimum support and shock absorption as the runner moves and make landings.

However, many shoe brands use unique or upgraded technologies to improve stability. You can also look into these to find out if they work better for you in terms of comfort and support.

What is the difference between conventional running shoes and stability running shoes?

Conventional or neutral running shoes don’t have motion control properties that help control pronation or provide precise support for flat feet. But as they have minimal cushioning and lower density foam or midsoles, they tend to feel lighter than stability shoes.

Are stability shoes only for overpronation?

Yes, they are specially designed for people or runners with severely overpronated feet. The midsoles, cushioning, and upper units are all essentially integrated to one another to provide the ideal and comfortable fit for flat feet.

This genetic case has caused negative marks on the performance for many overpronators. But wearing stability shoes help manage pronation and even stop the inward bending. Hence, better and pain-free performance.

However, there are still many users who benefit from this kind of structure. They find it comfortable and considered the cushioning and support just right for their feet. But of course, it is better to you consult your podiatrist or a foot specialist to determine what shoes you should wear according to your gait cycle, arch type, and condition.

Wrapping It Up

Every stability shoe in our list has its own respective ways to enhance the stability and comfort for flat feet. But among these topnotch picks, I have found two exceptional stability running shoes: the Brooks Adrenaline 18 for men and Asics Gel Kayano 23 for women.

Brooks always takes an extra mile in sprucing up their shoes with superb technologies and the Adrenaline 18 showcases a refurbished style that boasts both style and stability benefits. It uses BioMoGo cushioning for maximum comfort and stability. And even with the high-density midsoles, they are lightweight and probably one of the lightweight stability shoes I found, in my opinion.

The Gel Kayano 23, on the other hand, does not fail to impress with its exceptional cushioning and gel technology that enhances the gait efficiency and delivers smooth and soft transition on every stride. They are also lightweight and the dynamic fit makes these stability shoes worth wearing for long and short runs!