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CNN
20-05-2025
- Health
- CNN
The 12 best shoes for bunions, according to podiatrists
Shoes for bunions quick picks Running sneakers: Brooks Women's Adrenaline GTS 23 GTX APMA-accepted sandals: Alegria Women's Oona Sandals Slip-on shoes: Skechers Women's Slip-ins Go Walk Joy Vela Most of us can agree that finding stylish, comfortable and supportive shoes is a challenge in and of itself. Finding a pair that's all of the above and accommodates bunions? Even harder. If you experience bunions, it's important to find shoes that are made from stretchy materials that won't irritate the area. It's also crucial to steer clear of shoes that are too narrow, since they run the risk of aggravating the often-painful growths and worsening the condition. And while you're probably better off ditching those pointy stilettos for the sake of your foot health, you're not restricted to wearing clunky, orthopedic-like footwear for life. To help you find the best shoes for bunions, we consulted several podiatrists for their insights and shoe recommendations. According to the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), 'A bunion is commonly referred to as a 'bump' on the joint at the base of the big toe — the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint — that forms when the bone or tissue at the big toe joint moves out of place.' While many people assume that wearing the wrong shoes are to blame for bunions, that usually isn't the case. 'It's important to understand that bunions are largely hereditary, and ill-fitting shoes are typically not the primary cause,' Dr. Daniel J. Cuttica, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon at the Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics, said. 'However, the wrong shoes, particularly those that are narrow in the toe box, can exacerbate the condition. Tight shoes cause the toes to crowd, which stretches the ligaments around the big toe joint. Over time, this stress can cause the big toe to deviate toward the second toe, worsening the bunion.' Brooks Women's Adrenaline GTS 23 GTX If you're looking for a supportive and waterproof pair of running shoes, Dr. Jason Gold, a board-certified podiatrist at the Foot, Ankle & Leg Vein Center, recommends these sneakers from Brooks. They're made from breathable mesh uppers that can comfortably stretch to accommodate bunions. Brooks Men's Adrenaline GTS 23 GTX These sneakers are designed with soft cushioning to make running in them even more comfortable, especially around bunions. There's also a newer and lighter model of these shoes available that features an updated version of the brand's dynamic cushioning, though they're not waterproof. Alegria Women's Oona Sandals You don't need to swear off cute shoes just because you have bunions. Dr. Porscha Bailey, board-certified podiatrist and peripheral nerve surgeon at Fort Defiance Indian Hospital, recommends these sandals from Alegria, which have adjustable straps to control the amount of pressure placed on the bunion. She's also a fan of the sandals because they received the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) seal of acceptance, which is awarded to products that promote good foot health. New Balance Women's Made in USA 990v6 Both Gold and Dr. Jodi Schoenhaus, a board-certified podiatrist at the Foot, Ankle & Leg Vein Center, recommend the New Balance 990v6 sneakers in their larger widths to accommodate bunions. The shoes feature FuelCell foam technology, which helps propel you forward when you walk or run, and they're made with accommodating mesh uppers. New Balance Men's Made in USA 990v6 These shoes also feature the brand's ENCAP midsole cushioning, which helps absorb impact on the joints and makes them comfortable enough for all-day wear. Birkenstock Unisex Arizona Soft Footbed Sandals If you're looking to hide small bunions, Schoenhaus recommends the Birkenstock Arizona sandals in their larger width, which feature supportive adjustable straps and a suede footbed lining that makes them comfortable to wear for extended periods in hot weather. Kuru Women's Quantum Designed for walks, workouts and everyday wear, these women's sneakers have supportive soles for miles of comfort. They also feature the brand's KuruSole technology, which helps alleviate other foot conditions like plantar fasciitis. Kuru Men's Quantum These shoes serve as a solid option for men looking for relief from bunion pain, and overall foot pain. 'Kuru shoes are great for overpronators because they have heel-hugging technology and great arch support,' Gold said. 'The Kuru Quantums also have a wide toe box with breathable materials, which are great for bunions.' Alegria Women's Ova8tion Beige Sandals Bailey is also a fan of the Alegria Ova8tion Sandals. 'These slip-on sandals offer a spacious toe box and built-in arch support,' Bailey said. The sandals, which feature padded mesh uppers that help prevent irritation, also have adjustable hook-and-loop straps that allow you to control their tightness. Plus, the sandals have built-in molded RecoverMe EVA footbeds for arch support, slip-resistant outsoles for improved traction on slick ground and low heels to prevent slips and falls. Taryn Rose Women's Taylor Slide Sandals 'Taryn Rose shoes are designed by an orthopedic surgeon and generally are made with wide toe boxes, cushioned footbeds and supportive designs,' Dr. Gold said. These slide sandals are made from faux uppers, have adjustable hook-and-loop straps so you can get the right fit and memory foam cushioning for all-day wear. Not to mention, their slip-on style makes them easy to put on and take off. Skechers Women's Slip-ins Go Walk Joy Vela Schoenhaus likes these Skechers shoes because they're made from soft mesh uppers that can expand to accommodate large bunions. The laceless shoes are designed with the brand's exclusive Heel Pillow technology and feature its cushioned Air-Cooled Memory Foam insoles to make walking more comfortable. Vionic Riviera Platform Sandals 'Vionic offers a bunch of different sandals that have adjustable straps around the bunion area, and all come with a good supportive arch and firm base,' Gold said. The Riviera Sandals have dual density footbeds and built-in Vio Motion technology, which helps provide stability. Birkenstock Women's Gizeh Big Buckle Schoenhaus recommends these Birkenstock sandals for larger bunions, because of their roomier fit. They're made from smooth leather and have a comfortable cork-latex footbed. Orthofeet Men's Edgewater These orthopedic shoes, made from stretchy uppers, feature wide toe boxes that leave plenty of room for your bunions. They also have cushioning insoles for added comfort and rubber outsoles for traction and stability. Skechers Men's Slip-ins Go Run Consistent 2.0 Empowered If you're looking for a lightweight slip-on shoe, this pair is a solid option. They feature forgiving mesh uppers and the brand's proprietary memory foam insoles. Skechers Women's Slip-ins Go Run Consistent 2.0 Endure In addition to having flexible traction outsoles to prevent slips, these slip-on shoes feature the brand's Heel Pillow technology, which helps keep your feet from sliding around when you walk. Our experts agree that selecting a shoe with a roomy toe box is the key to avoiding friction- or pressure-related aggravation. 'When the toe box is too tight, it can cause problems like blisters, joint pain, neuromas and toe cramps,' Gold said. Keeping the area pressure-free is especially important when it comes to high-impact activities like running. 'Blisters can be formed from even the slightest tightness in the shoe and repetitive stress,' Gold added. 'While blisters may not be a big deal, they can lead to other things like infections in the skin or the bone.' Also essential to keep in mind is the material of the shoe. Our experts recommend choosing shoes made from stretchy and forgiving materials, like mesh uppers, to reduce pressure on the area and the risk of irritation. You'll also want to shop for shoes with arch support and cushioned insoles. 'Proper arch support helps redistribute pressure across the foot, taking some of the load off the bunion area,' Cuttica said. 'Additionally, a cushioned insole or lining can enhance comfort by reducing impact and pressure points.' The following FAQs have been answered by podiatrists Dr. Daniel J. Cuttica and Dr. Jason Gold. Can wearing the wrong shoes cause bunions? Can wearing the wrong shoes cause bunions? According to Cuttica, wearing the wrong shoes, especially ones that are too tight, can exacerbate bunions, but they're usually not the cause of them. Does it help to stretch your shoes if you have bunions? Does it help to stretch your shoes if you have bunions? In short, yes. 'Stretching your shoes will help alleviate pressure on the bunions, which can limit pain, irritation or blistering,' Gold said. Are shoes that are good for bunions also good if you have plantar fasciitis? Are shoes that are good for bunions also good if you have plantar fasciitis? According to Cuttica, shoes that work well for those with bunions will likely be helpful for those dealing with plantar fasciitis. 'Footwear with a wide toe box prevents irritation at the bunion site, while good arch support helps reduce strain on the plantar fascia, the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot,' Cuttica said. 'By providing proper foot alignment and distributing pressure evenly, these shoes can alleviate symptoms of both conditions.' For this article, we consulted the following podiatrists to gain their professional insights on the best shoes for individuals with bunions. Dr. Porscha Bailey, board-certified podiatrist and peripheral nerve surgeon at Fort Defiance Indian Hospital Dr. Daniel J. Cuttica, board-certified orthopedic surgeon at The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics Dr. Jason Gold, board-certified podiatrist at the Foot, Ankle & Leg Vein Center Dr. Jodi Schoenhaus, board-certified podiatrist at the Foot, Ankle & Leg Vein Center CNN Underscored has a team of writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when relevant to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this article, associate lifestyle editor Rachel Dennis interviewed podiatrists who shared their tips for selecting shoes for individuals with bunions and their recommendations.
Business Insider
16-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Business Insider
Best Vionic coupon and promo codes we've tested in May 2025
Footwear that's as comfortable as it is stylish can be hard to come by. Luckily, Vionic has plenty of options. The brand's orthotic footwear has been approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association and is cute and comfortable to wear or walk in all day. Plus, when you use a good Vionic coupon at checkout, it's also affordable. Vionic offers a wide range of shoes for every season, and our style editors on the Reviews team have tested them all. We particularly love the Uptown Loafer, which is both one of our favorite loafers for women and one of the best walking shoes for women we've tested. The Klara Ballet Flat is also our top ballet flat for narrow feet, and the Walk Max Wanderer Sandal offers top-notch arch support, making it one of our go-to women's walking sandals. While you can usually find some good markdowns on Vionic's site, using a coupon can help you save even more. Promo codes are hidden well, but can stack with other discounts to get you the best deal possible, so we've rounded them up right here. In addition to browsing the retailer's ongoing deals, check out the best Vionic promo codes we've tested below. Today's best Vionic coupons Are there any other Vionic sales running at the moment? You can find a full list of current markdowns on the "Sale" page of Vionic's website at any time. As of the time of writing, Vionic is running the following promotions. See all current women's sales at Vionic See all current men's sales at Vionic All sale prices and promotions are automatically applied at checkout. How to use Vionic promo codes Start by adding coupon-eligible items to your cart. On the cart page, apply a coupon by clicking the "Have a promo code?" dropdown, pasting a code into the "Enter promo code" text box, and clicking "Apply discount." Once the coupon is added, continue to checkout and enter your shipping and billing information. Can you stack Vionic discount codes? Vionic does not allow coupons to be stacked together. Only one promo code may be applied per order. Vionic coupon: frequently asked questions Does Vionic offer discounts for students, teachers, and the military? As of the time of writing, Vionic does not offer special discounts for students, teachers, or military members, so your best bet is to take advantage of the brand's other coupons and deals. If you're a student or teacher, check out our roundups of the best student discounts and the best teacher discounts for more offers from your favorite brands. Does Vionic offer free shipping? Vionic offers free economy shipping on all orders over $100. There is a flat economy shipping fee of $7.95 for orders that don't meet the spending minimum. Learn more about shipping rates and times on Vionic's website. best Rothy's coupon codes and the .
Business Wire
01-05-2025
- Health
- Business Wire
Alegria™ Offers Modern Style and Unmatched Comfort for Medical Professionals
ONTARIO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--In celebration of Nurses' Week, Alegria ™, a leading California-based women's comfort footwear brand, is recognizing the dedication of medical professionals. Known for crafting high-quality shoes, some of which are American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Accepted, that unite style, durability and unparalleled comfort, Alegria addresses the challenges of long shifts by providing dependable footwear. This year, Alegria proudly announces Liquid Shell™ technology, an innovation that provides advanced fluid-resistant protection. Alegria Shoes offers an extensive selection of footwear designed to support the needs of medical and nursing professionals. To explore the collection, visit Share Liquid Shell™ is a protective barrier between the upper and lining of the vamp that repels liquids and helps to keep the feet dry. This technology comes in addition to Alegria's signature ergonomic support and modern design. 'It's rare to find shoes that balance fashion-forward, of-the-moment designs with all-day support, but Alegria does exactly that. I wear them during my shifts and love how they keep me comfortable while staying on trend,' explained Dr. Porscha Bailey, DPM. 'I confidently recommend them to my colleagues and patients who want shoes that perfectly combine style and reliable support." Medical Professional Essentials These styles, some of which are American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Accepted, are crafted with the needs of health care professionals in mind, providing the all-day comfort, support and durability required in their demanding roles. Duette: Designed for health care workers who value lightweight comfort, the Duette is a sleek slip-on vegan casual shoe that is American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Accepted. It features elastic gores, a padded collar and a lightweight slip-resistant sport rocker outsole for flexibility and support during long shifts. Its removable cushioned footbed ensures lasting comfort. COMING SOON: Excitingly, the Duette will soon include Alegria's innovative Liquid Shell™ technology for enhanced protection and performance. (Pictured in color Swirl Wind Navy. Also available in multiple other colors.) Keli: An American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Accepted leather slip-on that serves as a wardrobe warrior for health care professionals on demanding shifts. The Keli includes elastic side gores and gentle padding at the instep and collar for a secure yet cozy fit. Its rounded toe design enhances comfort, while the removable ergonomic footbed made of memory foam and cork provides outstanding support. The slip-resistant career casual outsole ensures stability and all-day wearability. (Pictured in color Slickery. Also available in multiple other colors.) Liber8: The perfect fusion of natural comfort and modern style, the Liber8 is a go-to choice for health care professionals. It features a lightweight and ultra-flexible rubber outsole designed for exceptional slip resistance on a variety of surfaces. Alegria Fit™, with its natural-shaped toe box, provides room for toes to move freely, enhancing overall comfort. Additionally, its water-repelling Liquid Shell™ upper ensures durability and versatility, no matter the environment. (Pictured in color Digi Navy. Also available in colors Digi Lilac, Black, Static Blush, Digi Rose and Static Grey). "Alegria deeply values the dedication and hard work of medical professionals who spend countless hours on their feet,' said Irene Chen, vice president of operations at Alegria. 'Nurses' Week offers us a special opportunity to shine an even brighter light on their tremendous impact. We are committed to designing footwear that combines fashion-forward styles with the superior comfort and support. Our shoes are crafted to empower nurses, podiatrists and all health care workers to feel confident, comfortable and cared for as they care for others." Alegria also extends this commitment beyond health care workers, staying true to its promise of making women and their feet happy. With over 20 years of experience in designing women's footwear, Alegria offers clogs, sneakers and other styles with footbeds that provide robust arch support and heel cushioning to alleviate discomfort. These thoughtful designs reduce strain on the legs, hips and back, offering dependable and stylish options that meet the demands of all women. Alegria Shoes offers an extensive selection of footwear designed to support the needs of medical and nursing professionals. To explore the collection, visit For a complete overview of styles and colors available, please visit Alegria™ is a leading women's comfort shoe brand headquartered in California. Living up to its name of happiness, Alegria™ designs shoes made to be comfortable and supportive to provide women with the happiness their feet deserve. As a shoe company that has been awarded the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, Alegria™ takes great pride in its interchangeable patented footbed technology. The Alegria™ footbeds are the foundation of our shoes, which is the secret behind every pair. With supple leathers and vivid prints, Alegria™ pairs style with comfort, creating the ultimate shoe for every woman. To learn more about Alegria™ and the shoes it has to offer, visit
CNN
30-04-2025
- Health
- CNN
The 18 best running shoes for men in 2025, according to podiatrists and runners
Running shoes quick picks For flat-footed athletes: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 Everyday trainers that'll last: Nike Pegasus 41 Plush shoes for runners with arthritis: Hoka Bondi 9 Trail runners with a cult following: Altra Lone Peak 9 When it comes to men's running shoes, there's no such thing as one-size-fits-all. The same gear a trail runner uses to race up a mountain won't do much for a new runner sprinting on a treadmill. Throw in different body types, running gaits, training goals and budgets, and it's clear: Finding the right pair of running shoes takes more than just a flashy design. To give you an idea of which shoes are best suited for your specific needs, I turned to four seasoned running experts to help build a standout lineup. Whether you're lacing up for your first lope or chasing a new personal best, there's something here for everyone. The experts also shared practical, no-nonsense tips on how to choose the right shoes. Here's what they recommend. Brooks Men's Adrenaline GTS 24 Using Brooks' cushy DNA Loft v3 foam and GuideRails technology (like training wheels on a bike), the Adrenaline GTS 24 offers extra stability on the road. They're a prime recommendation of Dr. Miguel Cunha, podiatrist and the founder of Gotham Footcare, for overpronators and patients with flat to Coast Men's P1 Though Mount to Coast doesn't have mainstream brand recognition, Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, podiatric surgeon and spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association, reaches for the brand's P1 stability shoes, which she said are superb for pronators who run long distances. Like many of the shoes on this list, they also come stamped with the American Podiatric Medical Association's (APMA) Seal of Men's Addiction GTS 15 Dr. Mark Mendeszoon, a multiboard-certified podiatrist and running shop owner, recommends this responsive, extra-supportive model for overpronators with knee, hip or other lower extremity problems. They're so good that you shouldn't need insoles or orthotics, he said. Plus, they come in four widths, from narrow to extra Men's Wave Inspire 21 For 2025, Mizuno updated the Wave Inspire with a wider forefoot and extra cushioning, and Mendeszoon likes them because they are a solid buy for responsive stability. But what makes the Wave Inspire really stand apart is their 12-millimeter heel-to-toe drop, which he said offers 'tremendous heel shock absorption,' to mitigate aggressive heel striking. Hoka Men's Arahi 7 The beefy midsoles on the Hoka Arahi 7 will keep excess pronation in check, Mendeszoon said. Combine that with the stellar shock absorption, outstanding breathability and roomy toe boxes, and you can see why these are another of his favorites. Brooks Men's Beast GTS 24 Whether you've got severely flat feet, have had surgery or suffer from other foot problems, try Brooks' Beast model, Mendeszoon said. They offer some of the most support and cushioning out of Brooks' line and also make excellent walking shoes. The newest model features softer, more breathable uppers without sacrificing their roomy fit. Nike Men's Pegasus 41 The versatile, durable Nike Pegasus 41, one of Cunha's favorites, epitomize what everyday trainers should aspire to. Upgrades in 2025 include an increase in the shoe's cushioning, more breathable uppers and an improved lacing system for a dialed fit. Saucony Men's Ride 18 Like the Pegasus 41, the Saucony Ride 18 are like the Swiss Army knife of the road running world, offering something for long-distance runners, casual joggers and men who just want a comfy pair of walking shoes. Cunha added that they also accommodate most foot types and running Men's Glycerin 22 If you're the kind of guy who likes to wear running shoes to the office and the gym, then the Glycerin 22 are the do-it-all model you're looking for. Parthasarathy said they're one of her top picks for everyday wear and running, thanks to the well-cushioned midsoles and wide toe boxes. You can also snag the Glycerin GTS 22, which offer more support for Men's Bondi 9 With their 'bouncy, cushioned feel,' Parthasarathy said she points patients to the Bondi 9 if they have fat pad atrophy or arthritis. The newest version has a higher stack height for an ultra-plush experience on the road. Asics Men's Gel-Nimbus 27 'The Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 remains one of my top choices for neutral runners looking for extra cushioning and long-distance comfort,' Cunha said. For this year's model, expect an even higher, squishier midsole. Hoka Men's Clifton 10 'For patients seeking all-around performance, the Hoka Clifton 10s offer superior cushioning and a smooth ride — ideal for heel strikers and long-distance runners,' Cunha said. The newest iteration also comes with more cushioning, a roomier forefoot and toe Balance Men's Fresh Foam X 1080v14 Men with wide feet should test drive New Balance's 1080v14, Cunha said. The brand has equipped the cushioned, everyday running shoes with new, more breathable uppers and extra rubber for more durability. Brooks Men's Ghost 17 Despite being hot off the assembly line, Parthasarathy is already recommending Ghost's newest model for its 'very responsive' design that will suit neutral or supinated gaits. At time of publication, they're available for preorder at Brooks. Altra Men's Lone Peak 9 Contributing writer Cassandra Brooklyn called the Altra Lone Peak some of the best hiking shoes you can buy. They have a cult-like following among trail runners too, and received plaudits from Cunha for their wide toe boxes and zero-drop platforms, 'which promote natural foot movement.'Read our review La Sportiva Men's Bushido 3 After runners on staff logged more than 100 miles in 13 popular trail running shoes, the Bushido 3 emerged as our favorite, impressing testers with their sticky rubber, cooling ventilation and aggressive lugs. Keep in mind, however, that these are truly specialist shoes that won't work well on the road or for casual exercise in the our review Brooks Men's Cascadia 18 Whereas the Bushido 3 would be overkill for road running, our testers found the Cascadia versatile enough to take on- and off-road. (We tested the 17, which are very similar.) They've got rock plates and overlays to protect you when the terrain is tough, and just enough cushioning for long walks, hikes and road our review Hoka Men's Speedgoat 6 Though our trail running experts at CNN Underscored haven't tried the newest model of the Speedgoat, an earlier iteration is our pick for long-distance trail runs and ultramarathons. Highlights include flexible uppers that expand as your feet swell and comfy cushioning. Read our review 'The right running shoes can make a big difference in preventing injuries, improving comfort and keeping the entire body in better alignment while running,' Cunha said. Know your gait pattern Cunha believes your gait, the way you move when you run, is a key factor when choosing the best pair of running shoes, and he noted three gait or stride patterns: Pronation: When your feet roll inward. Supination: When your feet roll outward. Neutral: When your feet distribute weight evenly. And though this may sound technical, figuring out your own gait doesn't have to be. 'Going to your local run shop and getting an in-person gait analysis is absolutely the best way to have veteran eyes tell you what shoe is best for you,' Sackett said. Or, if you're willing to do a little DIY investigation, Cunha suggests looking at the wear patterns on your old shoes to get a better idea of how your feet hit the ground when you run. Find shoes that fit Once you know your gait pattern and terrain, the last thing to consider is the right fit. 'A proper fit helps prevent pain, blisters and injuries like plantar fasciitis or toenail trauma,' Cunha said. 'If it feels off in the store, it'll feel worse on a run.' Look for running shoes that fit snug but not tight, with about a thumb's-width of space between your big toes and the ends of the shoes. 'The toe box should be wide enough to wiggle your toes, and the shoe should bend at the ball of the foot, not through the arch,' he added. Another pro tip? Make sure you try on your shoes at the right time of day. Parthasarathy recommends shopping toward the end of the day, after a run, when your feet are most swollen. 'If they feel good then, they'll likely feel good during a run,' Cunha added. Still not sure what to buy? Lean on a podiatrist or a trusted staffer at a specialty running store for guidance. 'Running shoes are the best they've ever been, and nowadays you can really find something for every running style,' Sackett said. The following FAQs have been answered by podiatrists Dr. Miguel Cunha and Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, and product line manager at Brooks, Lee Sacket. What are the best running shoes for beginners? What are the best running shoes for beginners? 'For someone just getting into running, I always recommend starting with a balanced, 'perfect blend' type of shoe,' Sackett said, 'so you can start to unpack the features and feelings that you like and dislike on the run while still staying protected and comfortable.' In technical terms, he said to find a pair with a medium stack height (28 millimeters to 36 millimeters), a soft, responsive midsole, an upper that fits comfortably with the contours of your feet and enough stretch for your toes to spread out. How long do running shoes last? How long do running shoes last? Parthasarathy and Cunha said that it's important to replace shoes every 300 to 500 miles. 'Worn-out shoes can lead to heel pain, shin splints, knee pain or even back issues,' Cunha said. You can also try bending shoes to check wear, Parthasarathy said. If they bend in half, it's time for a new pair. Are there differences between men's and women's running shoes? Are there differences between men's and women's running shoes? 'At Gotham Footcare, I often explain to my patients that women's running shoes are typically designed with a narrower heel, softer cushioning and a different arch design to accommodate anatomical differences,' Cunha said. 'Men's shoes tend to be wider and built with slightly firmer midsoles to support greater body weight and wider foot structure.' That said, 'fit and function' matter most, regardless of gender, according to Cunha. If you're a guy who prefers a pair of women's running shoes, wear those instead. To ensure this guide features high-quality advice and recommendations, I spoke to four experts, including three podiatrists and a product line manager at Brooks. Dr. Miguel Cunha, podiatrist and the founder of Gotham Footcare Dr. Mark Mendeszoon, multiboard-certified podiatrist at Precision Orthopaedic Specialties and owner of Achilles Running Shop, a specialty shop dedicated to runners, walkers and athletes Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, podiatric surgeon and spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association Lee Sackett, product line manager at Brooks Running CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. Here, associate writer Maxwell Shukuya interviewed running and health care experts. Whenever possible, Shukuya also included products we've tested and loved in other health and fitness guides.
Yahoo
30-04-2025
- Lifestyle
- Yahoo
I ran a half-marathon in these Brooks sneakers — they're comfy, supportive and stable
I just ran a half-marathon! To be honest, 13.1 miles doesn't feel like that big of a deal now, but when I signed up four months ago, it was pretty daunting. I started training in January and was often running (and sometimes gliding) in snowy weather and whipping wind. But I did it — and I truly believe my running shoes played a big part. I tried various brands and lines and landed on the Brooks Ghost 16. These are supportive and stable and they helped keep my ankles and knees aligned to prevent injuries. I found the Brooks Ghost 16s to have soft-yet-lightweight cushioning (more on this in a sec) and a breathable upper. They also felt like they were cradling me for a more balanced step, and the insole had the perfect amount of arch support to keep my feet from rolling inward as my legs got tired. As for other specs, at 8.5 ounces, they're light, but there are certainly lighter options for runners who require that. These have a 12mm midsole drop — the difference in height between the heel and toe box — which is generally considered good for heel strikers or those with calf or ankle issues. Now, about that cushioning: Support-wise, the 16s are neutral — not the most stabilizing option in the Brooks' lineup and probably not the shoes you want if you're inclined toward overpronation or have high arches. And yes, compared to other options I tried, they are not the cushiest, a fact that many buyers also point out in reviews. But — hear me out — that's why I like them. When I'm walking around town or running errands, I appreciate a soft, memory-foam insole. But for running, I like something firmer. Think of it like this: Is it easier to run on sand or pavement? I wear these strictly for training, longer walks in the park and other workouts. If you need a cushier shoe, these might not be the option for you. When I looked around at other people's feet at the race, the majority were wearing Brooks. The brand's sneakers have long been a favorite among runners and the Ghost line is its most popular. They hold the American Podiatric Medical Association's Seal of Acceptance, a credential awarded to products "found to promote good foot health," and numerous "best" lists give them accolades. I've been wearing them on runs for years. Pre-pandemic, I completed a full marathon in my Ghost 9s. Since then, I've jogged more casually in other shoes like the Brooks Adrenaline, Brooks Glycerin, Hoka Clifton and Lululemon Blissfeel. All of them are comfortable, great options, but the Ghost 16 took my running to the next level and helped me PR across the finish line. After the race, a friend even commented that I seemed OK walking home when other runners were struggling, and I credit the shoes. Most Brooks reviewers love these shoes too. One nurse wrote: "I am not a runner in the true sense, unless you count running in the hospital hallways. I do [walk] many steps during the day and these are the sneakers that I can put on and don't have to break in. These are also my favorites for long days in the Disney World Parks!" Another said the shoes helped with foot pain. "I had developed plantar fasciitis in my right foot and wearing the Ghost 16 has nearly eliminated the problem. Nice arch support." As for serious runners, well, they like them too. "Brooks Ghost are definitely the best running trainers I have bought and I've bought a few pairs now over the years," said one fan. "I love the comfort, the fit is great and I run hundreds of miles in them. Always a winner with me." Some buyers prefer the brand's older versions. A coworker, Lily Herman, also ran a half-marathon this month and said she likes the 15s better. "There wasn't as much cushioning within the [16] shoe, which I really loved about previous iterations ... and this version feels a lot stiffer overall," she noted. "I'm also coming back from an injury, and I noticed that my knee was feeling irritated with each stride — something I didn't have with several previous pairs of Ghost 14s and 15s." On Brooks' website, others agreed. "This was the first time I had a longer break-in period with [this] style ... [and] I had ankle and knee pain, which never occurred [with] the other Ghost shoes," one customer lamented. That said, whether you're signing up for your first half-marathon, 5K or just want to run around the block a few times, I stand behind my 16s. I'll continue wearing them until they bite the dust — and then I'll likely go for the Ghost 17. The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
