The Best Athletic Shoes For Lower Back Pain 2023

In this post we’ll be going over the best athletic shoes for lower back pain that are great for nurses, waiters, and anyone else who spends long hours on their feet.

How to Choose The Perfect Shoe

red nike running shoes that are one of the best athletic shoes for lower back pain

There are many factors to consider when choosing the perfect shoes.

According to the Pain And Wellness Institute, a medical clinic that specializes in minimally invasive treatments for pain relief, states that choosing the right shoes can help ease or improve a variety of health issues such as:

An aching lower back
Sciatica
Herniated disc
Chronic back pain

Your feet can have a huge impact on the proper alignment of your body and its effect on your posture and spine cannot be overstated.

When selecting a shoe, you should focus on these factors:

Support and Stability: Look for shoes with support and stability features such as pronation control, arch support and cushioning. Also, remember that the stiffer the sole of your shoe is, the more stability it will provide.

Durability: If you’re going to be spending a lot of time on your feet, then it’s wise to invest in shoes with superior durability. Look for materials that are built to last and can withstand long hours on the job.

Comfort: If a shoe isn’t comfortable, it won’t matter how supportive or durable it is. The right shoes should provide cushioning that is flexible and can support your feet for long periods of time.

With all that being said, let’s take a look at some of the best shoes for lower back pain in 2023.

Best For Women: HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 8 Women’s Shoes

Hoka’s Bondi 8 is plushly cushioned, providing the comfort and stability that those dealing with back pain need. This convenience of use makes it an effortless selection as our top pick for women.

This shoe is designed with a Meta-Rocker feature that ignites the movement of your feet, creating smoother transitions from heel to toe and reducing pressure on joints.

Every step you take will be cushioned by the full-length EVA foam midsole which provides optimal arch support while helping keep your feet in alignment – making it easier for your back muscles too!

The shoe’s robust platform and dependable traction offer remarkable stability, while the generous toe box permits feet to broaden for extra steadiness.

An engineered mesh and lycra upper snugly wraps around your foot for a comfortable, secure fit, as well as sufficient breathability.

The Bondi 8 is renowned among walkers and runners alike, as it not only comes in two widths—regular and wide—to suit a variety of foot shapes, but also has been approved by podiatrists for its remarkable comfort and support.

Though some may disagree with the slightly bulky design, these features are what keep customers coming back to this shoe time after time.

This shoe is currently priced at $180.15.

Pros:

Good for walking
Good for posture
Pampering, impact-absorbing cushioning
Great for foot pain
Great arch support
Superior steadiness with a broad platform

Cons:

Too wide for narrow feet
Pricey

Product Details:

9 ounces in weight
Mesh, lycra, and rubber materials
High cushioning
Lace-up closure
100% synthetic

Best For Men: Brooks Men’s Glycerin 20 Neutral Running Shoe

Take your running to the next level with Brooks Glycerin 20. With its round toe silhouette, a newly designed midsole and outsole that provide the perfect stability and balance on every stride, your feet will stay strong and energized for even your longest runs.

The mesh upper is nicely crafted with breathable engineered textile and synthetic material, promising ultimate comfort.

This shoe is very easy to pull on and off, Brooks Glycerin 20 sneakers showcase a traditional lace-up closure with an improved fit to secure your foot perfectly in place.

The best feature of this running shoe is the DNA LOFT cushioning which provides a soft feel to your feet while remaining lightweight and durable.

Brooks Glycerin 20 is currently priced at $159.93.

Pros:

Exceptionally lightweight
Breathable upper material
Perfect for long runs

Cons:

Not as durable

Product Details

10.6 ounces in weight
Mesh upper and rubber outsole materials
high cushioning
lace-up closure

Best Priced: Saucony Men’s Cohesion 15 Shoes

For those who want best athletic shoes for lower back pain without breaking the bank, you can’t go wrong with Saucony Men’s Cohesion 15 Running Shoe.

Experience the same level of impact protection and shock absorption as more costly options with this affordable shoe.

Its cushioning provides a soothing, comfortable stride from beginning to end, making it an unbeatable choice!

Enjoy the snug feeling of a custom fit enveloping your feet with this breathable mesh upper. It ensures that they stay dry and comfortable while running or walking on pavement, even in harsh conditions!

Additionally, it offers firm but not overbearing support thanks to its midsole. Your feet don’t slip either due to the durable rubber outsole providing exceptional grip for all surfaces.

This shoe is currently priced at a whopping $39.95!

Pros:

Lightweight upper
Budget friendly
The perfect starter athletic shoe

Cons:

Some users complain about the insoles being small

Product Details:

9.1 ounces in weight
Mesh and rubber material
Moderate cushioning
lace-up closure

Best Walking: Ryka Women’s Devotion Plus 3 Walking Shoe

Ryka’s Devotion Plus 3 walking shoe is the ideal choice for female fitness walkers who don’t want back pain to impede their progress and stop them from achieving their daily step goals.

Boasting superior cushioning and support to the arch, heel, and ankle areas, this shoe provides a plush landing with an added benefit of shock absorption. Helping preserve your back and joints while you move!

The shoe’s design is intended to provide an optimal balance of stability, comfort and security. Its toe box offers a roomy fit while the footbed provides dependable support, topped off with a narrow heel for snug protection.

Furthermore, the shoe’s resilient and high-grade rubber outsole provides exemplary stability along with dependable grip.

Not only does it provide ample security, traction, and protection when traversing moderate trails, but this budget-friendly option is also remarkably versatile.

The Devotion Plus 3 boasts an ultra-breathable engineered mesh upper and a smooth, soft lining for added comfort.

The only caveat is that the relatively thin upper material may not be suitable in colder temperatures, making it best suited to moderate conditions rather than extreme cold or heat.

This shoe is priced at $69.99.

Pros:

Superior cushioning
Resilient outsole
Smooth, mesh upper
Supports the foot arch, heel, and ankle

Cons:

Not suitable for cold weather
No men’s sizes

Product Details:

8.2 ounces in weight
Engineered mesh upper, lycra lining, rubber soles
High cushioning
Lace-up closure

Best Running: Adidas Ultraboost 22 Running Shoe

If you’re a frequent runner, your feet will be thankful for the support and comfort of shoes designed to reduce back pain.

Adidas’ Ultraboost 22 running shoes are the perfect blend of comfort, support, and balance. With their technology, you can experience a new level of performance while enjoying maximum protection.

This shoe’s full-length midsole is designed to cushion your every stride, allowing you to take off with energy and bounce while still protecting your back from any potential jolts or impacts.

Runners experiencing pain can benefit from its shock absorption features for a comfortable run every time.

The ergonomically designed heel structure and snug upper work together to create a secure fit that eliminates slippage and blisters.

The rubber outsole bends naturally, providing an effortless ride while maintaining excellent traction on wet or dry surfaces.

Crafted from recycled materials, the Ultraboost 22 is a must-have for all men’s sizes. But just note that they only come in standard widths!

Whether you fancy short or long distances, these shoes are ideal for outdoor runners who prefer running on paved roads or paths.

Plus, the comfy fit and streamlined design make them ideal to serve double-duty for casual wear.

The adidas ultraboost is currently priced at $120.00.

Pros:

The ideal mixture of coziness and stability
Great for road runners
Excellent traction

Cons:

Standard width

Product Details:

12 ounces in weight
Recycled polyester and rubber
Moderate cushioning
Lace-up closure

Best Sandals: Skechers Women’s On-The-go 600-Brilliancy Sport Sandal

When you’re struggling with back discomfort, a common sandal just won’t cut it, but Skechers’ sports sandals have the cushioning and support your feet need.

Unlike several other trendy slip-on sandals, these have adjustable straps to ensure your foot stays securely in place. Your feet will thank you for this invaluable support and fit!

These sandals provide superior shock absorption and ultimate comfort with its responsive cushioning, along with a generously padded footbed for extra support and impact protection.

Further, these sandals feature a rubber sole with multi-directional traction to promote additional stability and prevent against slipping.

Nevertheless, for those seeking waterproof sandals for sports activities, these may not be the ideal option.

Weighing in at a mere 6 ounces, these sandals are feather-light yet provide the cushion and arch support necessary for wearing them all day.

Whether you’re walking around town or on an active vacation, they make the perfect companion!

These sandals are currently priced at $37.48.

Pros:

Superior shock absorption
Nice patted footbed
Lightweight

Cons:

Not waterproof

Product Details:

6 ounces in weight
Mesh upper and rubber outsole
Medium cushioning
Velcro straps

Best For Treadmill: Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39

Treadmills can be monotonous, with your foot constantly landing in the same spot on a surface that may not provide enough shock absorption.

The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 is the best choice for runners who need extra cushioning, arch support and impact protection.

Not only are the features of Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 fantastic for road running, but they also make it an ideal choice for treadmill runs.

The Pegasus 39 is featherlight, offering superior cushioning which makes it an ideal shoe for those who use treadmills.

It meets all the criteria of a top-notch treadmill running sneaker so you can experience maximum comfort and support each time you set foot on the machine and get moving!

The waffle-style outsole motivates a natural running gait while providing excellent grip in the event that your treadmill becomes slippery due to perspiration.

Furthermore, the Pegasus 39 was engineered to be lighter than its predecessor, the Pegasus 38; two Zoom Air units were also integrated into the forefoot for a flexible and responsive feel when you’re running on your treadmill.

This shoe is currently priced at $125.00.

Pros:

Lightweight
Great for road running and treadmill running
Provides extra cushioning

Cons:

Thin material

Product Details:

9 ounces in weight
Moderate cushioning
Mesh, react foam, and rubber material
Lace-up closure

Best Lightweight: ON Men’s Cloud 5 Sneakers

Lightweight and supportive, On’s Cloud 5 running shoes offer the perfect combination of comfort and agility. Perfect for any runner who wants to maintain their speed without compromising on performance.

The lightweight and cushioning midsole of this shoe ensures that each step you take is cushioned with superior shock absorption, without feeling heavy or clunky.

On’s innovative pods on the sole of your shoes compress as you move, which significantly lessens impact and absorbs shock for an extra layer of protection for your joints and back.

If you plan on running or walking paths with pebbles and dirt, be mindful of the pods at the bottom that can get clogged up. However, if this is not something you usually encounter during your typical workout then no worries!

The Cloud 5 may not be available in wide widths, but it offers an expansive toe box. Thanks to its breathable and anti-microbial mesh upper, you’ll feel refreshed, dry and cool throughout the day. What’s more, abrasion pads on the outsole give you dependable traction!

Crafted from reused resources, the Cloud 5s are a perfect choice for running, walking, cross-training and can even be enjoyed as casual wear.

With the convenient bungee lacing system, you won’t have to worry about tying your shoes again. The shoe simply slips on and off with ease!

This shoe is currently priced at $169.65.

Pros:

Innovative pods
Expansive toe box
Recycled material
Bungee lacing

Cons:

Not available in wide widths
Pricey

Product Details:

8 ounces in weight
Crafted from recycled polyester, rubber outsole
Moderate cushioning
Bungee laces

Best For Flat Feet: ASICS Men’s Gel-Kayano 28 Running Shoes

The Kayano is a pinnacle of stability from ASICS, and the first shoe to feature their latest technology. This model stands out as it incorporates cutting-edge advancements for optimal performance.

Although the upper of the ASICS Kayano 28 was mostly similar to that of its predecessor, I was unable to spot any noteworthy variations.

Thankfully though, this wasn’t a problem as the 27’s upper already provided an array of benefits so much so that it can be considered one of its strengths.

The Kayano features two mesh layers of varying colors, black and grey – achieving the same speckled effect as the 27.

The laces feature a similar design with black sections punctuated by white dots for an eye-catching look.

This combination helps create an everyday wear vibe that ASICS accentuates further through 7 different colorways so customers can find exactly what they are looking for!

The ASICS Kayano 28 stands out among the competition as a premier stability trainer for any pace or distance. Its design has been markedly enhanced to make it an unrivaled leader of its kind.

This shoe is currently priced at $89.93.

Pros:

Flytefoam Blast
Simplified aspects (trusstic and heel clutch)
Consistent and stable ride
Durable

Cons:

Can cause midfoot tightness

Product Details:

10 ounces in weight
Engineered mesh upper, rubber soles
Moderate cushioning
Lace-up closure

Best For Wide Feet: New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V12 Running Shoes

New Balance’s Fresh Foam 1080 v12 Running Shoes will be your saving grace if you have wide feet! Not only is the toe box roomy, but there is more spaciousness in the entire shoe.

Plus, they come with three widths – regular, wide and extra-wide – so you can get a fit that feels like it was made just for you.

The Fresh Foam X cushioning of the shoe provides a lavish, comforting feel and reliable shock absorption. Furthermore, its rocker-inspired sole enables effortless transitions that reduces stress on your lower back muscles.

The shoe is equipped with a broad and secure base for extra support as well as an aggressive rubber outsole to help prevent slips. This makes it ideal for those who find themselves in danger of losing their balance or sustaining back injuries regularly.

A well-crafted heel counter offers your feet the stability and security needed to prevent any strain or injury caused by unnecessary lateral movement.

If you’re a runner or walker with wide feet, this shoe is the perfect investment: it’s expensive but offers superior support and shock absorption.

This shoe is currently priced at $159.00.

Pros:

Broad, secure base
Comes in various widths
Great for walking or running

Cons:

Pricey

Product Details:

9 ounces in weight
Knit and mesh upper, lightweight foam midsole, and heavy-duty rubber outsole.
High cushioning
Lace-up closure

Best For Marathons: Saucony Endorphin Pro 3 Running Shoe

The Saucony Endorphin Pro 3 shares some similarities with the Speed 3, yet it has several unique features that make it the ideal shoe for marathon running.

With its light weight of 7.2 ounces, the Speed 4 is softer and more comfortable than its predecessor-the Speed 3.

The vented upper material allows your feet to stay cool while running in a marathon or any other long distance race.

The lightweight upper of the shoe provides a secure fit for runners, without sacrificing comfort and breathability.

The Pro 3 is the optimal choice for marathoners who want to feel comfortable and run faster. Its foam midsole offers responsive comfort throughout your race, while its Carbon plate provides an extra spring underneath your heel as well as a rocking motion beneath the forefoot.

As a result, this marathon racer is designed for optimum comfort that also enables you to accelerate when the opportunity arises.

This shoe is currently priced at $225.00.

Pros:

Lightweight
Vented upper material
Responsive comfort

Cons:

Expensive

Product Details:

7 ounces in weight
Mesh and rubber material
High cushioning
Lace-up closure

Best Shock Absorbers: ASICS Gel Nimbus 22

If you’re a runner seeking cushioning and lightweight support for your daily runs, from light jogs to intense sprints, the Gel Nimbus 22 is an ideal choice.

With their smooth transition from easy jogs to swift sprints, they’ll help keep up with your speed – but don’t forget that their main aim is for long distance runs instead of racing!

This model of shoe is designed with the ideal combination of features for treating and alleviating back pain. To emphasise its value, let’s review these elements one by one.

You require shoes that are both incredibly cushioned and lightweight for your back pain. Fortunately, these come with superior padding!

The shoes are designed with shock absorption in mind. Gel is strategically placed in the heel to help absorb impact when your foot strikes the ground. The higher drop of our heels also adds an extra layer of protection for your feet.

Also, the arch support helps to correctly distribute body weight and the heel cup provides additional stability that keeps your entire foot and back in perfect alignment, creating a unified momentum.

Ultimately, the sole should is the perfect balance between soft and rigid. Like Goldilocks, these shoes are just right – not too hard yet still supportive for long-distance running or hours of standing with comfortability that is anything but subsiding.

This shoe is currently priced at $159.90

Pros:

Boasting an abundance of quality gel
Deep horizontal flex grooves

Cons:

Heavy weighted

Product Details:

10 ounces in weight
Mesh, and foam material
Moderate cushioning
Lace-up closure

Buying Guide

Know What Your Foot Type Is. Whether you have a high arch, flat foot, or neutral balance between the two – finding fitting footwear is key. Individuals with flat arches may suffer from sore knees and bad backs while those with high arches typically experience pain in their tendons and heels. Therefore, it’s essential to seek out shoes that can accommodate your specific type of feet for optimal comfort levels.
Look for shoes with cushioning. With running, it is crucial that you purchase a shoe with extra cushioning for maximum comfort and to shield your knees and lower back from the shock of impact.
Lightweight Shoes: If you’re participating in any form of marathon, having lightweight shoes will help reduce fatigue and stress on your feet and legs.Ensure
Comfortability: The last thing you want is for your feet to be uncomfortable during a race, not only will it impede performance but it could also lead to injuries. Be sure to try them on and walk around for a bit to make sure they fit correctly before deciding.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Which shoes are best for low back problem?

The best shoes for lower back pain are those that provide cushioning, support and shock absorption.

Can shoes affect lower back pain?

Yes, they can. Relieve your lower back pain with shoes that promote cushioning, support and shock absorption; this will lessen any strain on the spine.

Why does my lower back hurt when I wear flat shoes?

Flat shoes lack arch support and cushioning, which can put more strain on your lower back.