Best Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis in 2025

Last Updated on May 28, 2025 by Andy Walker

Finding the best shoes for Achilles tendonitis in 2025 is more than just a matter of comfort—it’s a critical part of recovery and injury prevention. Achilles tendonitis is a common condition that affects runners, athletes, and even people who spend long hours on their feet. Characterized by pain and inflammation along the back of the leg near the heel, this injury can make walking, let alone running, feel like a monumental task.

Thankfully, advancements in shoe technology in 2025 have given us a new generation of footwear designed specifically to support the Achilles tendon, reduce tension, and promote healing. Whether you’re looking for everyday walking shoes, high-performance running sneakers, or a comfortable option for standing all day at work, there are excellent choices that can help.

In this post, we’ll walk you through:

• What makes a shoe Achilles-friendly
• The role of heel drop and cushioning in reducing strain
• Key features to prioritize if you suffer from tendon pain
• A comparison table to quickly identify the best shoe for your needs
• In-depth reviews of top-rated models with pros, cons, and specs

Let’s help you take your next step—literally—with less pain and more confidence.

Summary of the Best Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis in 2025

Reviews of Best Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis

Here are our recommend shoes for achilles tendonitis for 2025.

Hoka Mach 6

Best For: Overall Performance

The Hoka Mach 6 is a standout shoe for those looking for a lightweight, responsive option that doesn’t compromise on cushioning. It’s particularly effective for runners and walkers dealing with Achilles tendonitis due to its high-rebound PROFLY+ midsole foam, which offers a soft landing and a more energized toe-off. The shoe’s 5mm heel-to-toe drop is engineered to reduce load on the Achilles tendon, helping minimize strain with every step.

The upper is made of a creel jacquard mesh that ensures breathability and a snug fit. Hoka has stripped down the weight while keeping the shoe structurally supportive, so you don’t sacrifice comfort for performance. The Mach 6 is particularly good for runners transitioning between recovery runs and tempo workouts, or for anyone walking long distances who needs a shoe that stays comfortable all day.

The stability is subtle but effective, thanks to the midsole geometry and rocker design that guides your gait naturally. This model is especially useful for neutral runners or individuals with a slight overpronation who don’t need heavy stability correction but still want Achilles relief.

Specs:

• Heel Drop: 5mm
• Weight: 8.6 oz (Men’s size 9)
• Cushion: Moderate
• Support Type: Neutral

Pros:

• Lightweight and breathable
• Excellent for long walks and recovery runs
• PROFLY+ midsole offers energetic transitions

Cons:

• May not provide enough support for severe overpronators
• Fit may feel snug for wider feet

Men’s version | Women’s version

Brooks Glycerin GTS 22

Best For: Maximum Cushioning

The Brooks Glycerin GTS 21 delivers luxurious cushioning and rock-solid support, making it a perfect option for those managing Achilles tendonitis. Featuring DNA LOFT v3 midsole foam, the GTS 21 provides the softest ride in the Brooks lineup. It’s engineered to absorb shock efficiently, which protects the heel and Achilles during high-impact movements. The GuideRails support system is the GTS’s signature stability tech—it keeps excessive motion in check and aligns your stride naturally.

What makes this shoe truly ideal for tendonitis sufferers is its smooth heel-to-toe transition and ample cushioning under the heel. This reduces the impact on the Achilles and encourages a more neutral footstrike. It’s a favorite among heavy strikers and runners who want comfort that doesn’t feel bulky.

While it’s on the heavier side, the plush feel and consistent support make the Glycerin GTS 21 a strong everyday option for walking, running, or standing. The engineered mesh upper adds breathability and adaptive fit, while the updated outsole gives reliable grip across various surfaces.

Specs:

• Heel Drop: 10mm
• Weight: 10.2 oz (Men’s size 9)
• Cushion: Maximum
• Support Type: Stability

Pros:

• Plush, protective cushioning
• Stable ride with natural motion guidance
• Excellent shock absorption

Cons:

• Heavier than most daily trainers
• Premium price point

Men’s Version | Women’s Version

Brooks Beast GTS 24

Best For: Stability

The Brooks Beast GTS 24 is the men’s version of this motion control shoe, while the women’s equivalent is the Brooks Ariel GTS 24. Both models offer identical structural features, including the Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar (PDRB), GuideRails support system, and DNA LOFT v3 cushioning. The key difference lies in the last shape and fit—Beast is optimized for male foot anatomy, and Ariel is shaped to better accommodate female biomechanics, including a slightly narrower heel and lower instep.

The Brooks Beast GTS 24 is a top-tier motion control shoe designed for maximum support and structure—perfect for those with flat feet, severe overpronation, or Achilles tendonitis aggravated by misalignment. This shoe is built like a tank but feels more refined than its predecessors, with nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning for plush landings and an Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar (PDRB) that helps realign your stride from the heel up.

People with Achilles tendonitis benefit from the Beast’s high heel-to-toe drop and ample heel cushioning, which reduce stress on the tendon. The wide base and GuideRails system provide a stable platform that prevents the kind of foot wobble that often contributes to Achilles flare-ups.

Despite being heavier than other models on this list, the Beast GTS 24 is surprisingly smooth underfoot. The updated engineered mesh upper offers a breathable, roomy fit—great for those with wide feet or orthotic needs.

Specs:

• Heel Drop: 12mm
• Weight: 11.7 oz
• Cushion: High
• Support Type: Maximum Stability

Pros:

• Excellent stability and motion control
• High heel drop helps unload Achilles stress
• Great for flat feet and overpronators

Cons:

• Heavy and bulky
• Not ideal for neutral runners or speed workouts

Men’s Version (Beast 24) | Women’s Version (Ariel 24)

ASICS GT-2000 13

Best For: Durability

The ASICS GT-2000 13 strikes a strong balance between comfort, support, and resilience, making it one of the most reliable choices for people managing Achilles tendonitis. The shoe uses FF BLAST™ PLUS cushioning and PureGEL™ technology in the rearfoot to deliver soft landings and reduce impact shock—key features for limiting strain on the Achilles.

Its 8mm heel-to-toe drop helps offload pressure from the tendon during both walking and running. ASICS’ 3D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™ delivers light to moderate stability by encouraging natural motion while still offering control for mild overpronation. Combined with a midsole that responds well across various paces, this makes the GT-2000 13 an ideal everyday trainer.

The engineered mesh upper adapts to the foot for a secure fit and better airflow, while the AHAR outsole rubber ensures high durability for long-term wear. For runners who need structured support and a reliable ride, this shoe meets the mark without feeling too bulky.

Specs:

• Heel Drop: 8mm
• Weight: 9.9 oz
• Cushion: Moderate
• Support Type: Mild Stability

Pros:

• Durable and versatile for daily training
• GEL and FF BLAST™ PLUS reduce heel impact
• Breathable, adaptive upper

Cons:

• Lower heel drop than some competitors
• Slightly firm for runners seeking plush cushioning

Men’s Version | Women’s Version

Brooks Launch GTS 11

Best For: Lightweight Support

The Brooks Launch GTS 11 is a versatile and lightweight stability shoe that’s particularly well-suited for runners and walkers with mild overpronation or those needing gentle Achilles support without bulk. With a 10mm heel-to-toe drop, it provides ample lift to relieve pressure on the Achilles tendon, making it a smart choice for those in early stages of recovery or looking for a supportive daily trainer.

The BioMoGo DNA midsole offers responsive cushioning that adapts to your stride, while the GuideRails holistic support system adds light structure to help keep excess movement in check—crucial for preventing the kind of misalignment that can worsen tendon pain. The updated mesh upper improves breathability and offers a secure fit without feeling restrictive.

At under 9 ounces, the Launch GTS 11 is significantly lighter than many traditional stability shoes. This makes it ideal for speed workouts, long walks, or standing all day without feeling weighed down. It also transitions well from gym use to casual wear.

Specs:

• Heel Drop: 10mm
• Weight: 8.5 oz
• Cushion: Light
• Support Type: Mild Stability

Pros:

• Lightweight and agile feel
• Responsive cushioning with GuideRails support
• Great for daily use or cross-training

Cons:

• Less plush than high-cushion models
• Not for those needing max support

Men’s Version | Women’s Version