Underpronation, also called supination, means your foot rolls outward as you land and push off. You tend to walk on the outer edges of your feet, which puts more pressure on the ball of the foot, the heel and the outer toes.[1] It is common with high arches, and cushioned, flexible shoes help make up for the poor shock absorption of a high-arched foot.[1][3]
This guide explains how to spot underpronation, how to manage it, and what to look for in a shoe. It then compares fourteen pairs for men and women.
Disclaimer: This article is general information, not medical advice. If you have lasting foot, ankle or knee pain, or a high-arched or stiff foot, talk to a doctor or podiatrist before you choose shoes or inserts.
Underpronation shoe basics
- Walking on high arches causes supination, or underpronation, so you tend to walk on the outside of your feet.[1]
- Cushioned or neutral shoes are designed for people with high, rigid arches.[2]
- For high arches, the APMA suggests a cushioned running shoe with a softer midsole and more flexibility.[3]
- Special shoes or shoe inserts can help place your foot in a better position for walking.[1][4]
- Replace shoes before the cushioning wears out. Running shoes lose about 45 percent of their shock absorption by 500 miles.[2]
What Is Underpronation?
When you walk, your foot normally rolls from the outside toward the inside as it lands. That roll, called pronation, helps your foot absorb shock. With underpronation, the foot rolls outward instead, and the pressure lands on the less flexible parts of the foot: the ball, the heel and the outer toes.[1] High arches are a common cause, and the same foot can also be prone to plantar fasciitis and peroneal tendonitis.[1]
How to Tell if You Underpronate
The easiest check is to look at the soles of an old pair of walking or running shoes. If the outer edge of the heel is worn down, as in the picture below, you likely underpronate. Another check is your footprint after a shower or swim. If the print is missing the inside of your foot because the arch did not touch the ground, you have a supinated foot type.[2] A professional gait analysis gives a more reliable answer.[2]
If your soles are worn on the inside edge instead, you may overpronate. See our guide to walking and running shoes for overpronation.
How to Manage Underpronation
- Replace Old Shoes – Worn-out shoes lose cushioning, and the foam can break down even if you rarely wear them.[2]
- Choose Cushioned Shoes – Cushioned or neutral shoes with a soft midsole and some flexibility suit high, rigid arches.[2][3]
- Try Orthotics – Over-the-counter or custom inserts can help place your foot in a better position, and a podiatrist can tell you which type fits your foot.[1][4] Our guide to insoles for high arches lists some options.
- See a Specialist – If your symptoms are mild, treatment focuses on physical therapy and pain relief, and your doctor can advise on exercises.[1]
What to Look for in a Walking Shoe for Underpronation
- Upper – A soft, flexible, breathable upper that does not rub.
- Cushioning – A softer midsole, such as EVA foam or gel, absorbs the shock that a high-arched foot does not absorb on its own.[3]
- Support – A firm heel counter that grips the heel helps keep the shoe stable.[2]
- Outsole – A rubber outsole with a clear tread grips well and lasts.
How We Chose These Shoes
We do not test shoes ourselves. We compare each model’s cushioning, fit, widths and upper using The web and the makers’ product details, and we only list shoes sold on the web in the US. Brands do not pay to be included, but we may earn a commission from purchases.
Key Specs
| No. | Shoe | Type | Closure | Width options | Drop / Cushion | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Asics Nimbus 28 | Running | – | Medium, Wide, X-Wide | PureGEL | – |
| 2 | Under Armour Charged+ Assert 11 | Running | Lace-up | Medium, Wide, X-Wide | – | 10.2 oz |
| 3 | Brooks Glycerin 23 | Running | – | Medium, Wide, X-Wide | 8 mm drop / DNA TUNED | – |
| 4 | New Balance 608 V5 | Walking | – | Medium, Wide, X-Wide | ABZORB | – |
| 5 | Saucony Ride 19 | Running | – | Medium, Wide | PWRRUN | – |
| 6 | Saucony Cohesion 14 | Running | – | Medium, Wide | – | – |
| 7 | Under Armour Charged Assert 10 | Running | – | Medium, Wide, X-Wide | 10 mm drop / Charged Cushioning | 9.5 oz |
| 8 | Nike Downshifter 14 | Running | – | Medium | Bounce | – |
| 9 | Saucony Excursion TR15 | Trail/hiking | – | Medium, Wide | – | – |
| 10 | New Balance 577 V1 | Walking | Lace-up | Medium, Wide, X-Wide | ABZORB | – |
| 11 | Skechers Go Walk Max Cushioning Flex | Walking | Lace-up | Medium | Goga Mat | – |
| 12 | adidas X_PLR Path | Running | Lace-up | Medium | Cloudfoam | – |
| 13 | Under Armour Charged Surge 4 | Shoe | – | Medium | 8 mm drop / Charged Cushioning | – |
| 14 | Columbia Crestwood | Trail/hiking | – | Medium, Wide | – | – |
– = not stated by the maker. Specs as stated by the maker, not tested by us.
Running Shoes for Underpronation
These eight running shoes are neutral or cushioned. If you buy through the links on this page, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
1
Neutral Max-Cushion Running Shoe
Asics Nimbus 28 - Men
Currently unavailable
Asics Nimbus 28 - Women
Currently unavailable
The Asics Gel Nimbus 28 is a neutral, maximum-cushion trainer. It comes in men’s and women’s versions.
- The engineered knit upper is light and breathable.
- PureGel cushioning and FF Blast Plus foam give a soft, responsive ride.
- An OrthoLite X-55 sockliner adds cushioning and manages moisture, and reflective details help you stay visible.
- It comes in medium, wide and extra-wide widths.
2
Neutral Everyday Running Shoe
Under Armour Charged+ Assert 11 - Men
Currently unavailable
Under Armour Charged+ Assert 11 - Women
Currently unavailable
The Under Armour Charged+ Assert 11 is a neutral trainer that balances cushioning and flexibility. It comes in men’s and women’s versions.
- The mesh upper has leather overlays for midfoot support.
- The Charged+ midsole cushions each step, and the rubber outsole has flex grooves for toe-off.
- It weighs about 10.2 oz in the men’s version and comes in medium, wide and extra-wide widths.
3
Neutral Plush Cushioned Running Shoe
Brooks Glycerin 23 - Men
Currently unavailable
Brooks Glycerin 23 - Women
Currently unavailable
The Brooks Glycerin 23 is a neutral running shoe with a plush ride. It comes in men’s and women’s versions.
- Zonal DNA Tuned cushioning has extra foam in the forefoot for softer landings.
- The warp-knit upper is plush and stretches where your foot needs it.
- It comes in medium, wide and extra-wide widths.
4
Casual Cushioned Cross Trainer
New Balance 608 V5 - Men
Currently unavailable
New Balance 608 V5 - Women
Currently unavailable
The New Balance 608 V5 is a casual cross trainer with a suede upper. It comes in men’s and women’s versions.
- An Abzorb heel pad absorbs impact, and a molded insert adds cushioning underfoot.
- The suede upper breaks in to your foot, and dual-density collar foam steadies the ankle.
- The EVA midsole has a shank for midfoot stability.
- It comes in medium, wide and extra-wide widths.
5
Neutral Daily Road Running Shoe
Saucony Ride 19 - Men
Currently unavailable
Saucony Ride 19 - Women
Currently unavailable
The Saucony Ride 19 is a neutral daily trainer for road running and walking. It comes in men’s and women’s versions.
- PWRRUN foam gives light, consistent cushioning.
- The engineered mesh upper is breathable.
- It is a neutral shoe with no added corrective support, so it lets your foot move naturally.
6
Moderately Cushioned Running Shoe
Saucony Cohesion 14 - Men
Currently unavailable
Saucony Cohesion 14 - Women
Currently unavailable
The Saucony Cohesion 14 is a moderately cushioned trainer. It comes in men’s and women’s versions.
- VersaRun cushioning absorbs impact at a moderate cushioning level.
- The redesigned outsole has 6 mm lugs for steady footing.
- The heel is low at about 1 inch, and the fit is secure.
7
Lightweight Cushioned Running Shoe
Under Armour Charged Assert 10 - Men
Currently unavailable
Under Armour Charged Assert 10 - Women
Currently unavailable
The Under Armour Charged Assert 10 is a light, cushioned trainer. It comes in men’s and women’s versions.
- The mesh upper is breathable, with synthetic overlays for durability.
- The Charged midsole uses compression-molded foam, and an EVA sockliner adds step-in comfort.
- A solid rubber outsole covers the high-impact zones. It has a 10 mm drop and weighs about 9.5 oz.
8
Cushioned Running and Walking Shoe
Nike Downshifter 14 - Men
Currently unavailable
Nike Downshifter 14 - Women
Currently unavailable
The Nike Downshifter 14 is an easy road running and walking shoe. It comes in men’s and women’s versions.
- The open-hole mesh upper is breathable.
- The midsole has extra cushioning for comfort and bounce.
- An internal fit band holds the midfoot in place.
This section is dedicated to the best walking shoes for supination in 2026.
Walking Shoes for Underpronation
These three shoes suit everyday walking.
9Trail Running Shoe for Walks
Saucony Excursion TR15 - Men
Currently unavailable
Saucony Excursion TR15 - Women
Currently unavailable
The Saucony Excursion TR15 is a trail running shoe that also works for walks on uneven ground. It comes in men’s and women’s versions.
- The carbon rubber outsole has grippy lugs for steady footing.
- VersaRun cushioning gives moderate underfoot comfort.
- The trail mesh has supportive overlays, and the shoe uses recycled materials.
10
Leather Walking Shoe With Abzorb
New Balance 577 V1 - Men
Currently unavailable
New Balance 577 V1 - Women
Currently unavailable
The New Balance 577 V1 is a leather walking shoe. It comes in men’s and women’s versions.
- The full-grain leather upper is durable and breaks in over time.
- Abzorb cushioning in the midsole absorbs impact.
- The outsole is shaped for a natural heel-to-toe stride.
- It comes in medium, wide and extra-wide widths.
11
Max Cushion Bungee Lace Walker
Skechers Go Walk Max Cushioning Flex - Men
Currently unavailable
Skechers Go Walk Max Cushioning Flex - Women
Currently unavailable
The Skechers Go Walk Max Cushioning Flex is a soft walking sneaker. It comes in men’s and women’s versions.
- The Max Cushioning design and Goga Mat insole give high-rebound cushioning.
- The breathable mesh upper has elastic bungee laces, so you can wear it as a slip-on.
- The shoe is vegan and machine washable.
Everyday and Hiking Shoes for Underpronation
These three shoes suit everyday wear and light trails.
12Lightweight Everyday Sneaker
adidas X_PLR Path - Men
Currently unavailable
adidas X_PLR Path - Women
Currently unavailable
The adidas X_PLR Path is a light everyday sneaker with a running-inspired look. It comes in men’s and women’s versions.
- The mesh upper is breathable, with a soft textile lining.
- The Cloudfoam midsole cushions each step, and the rubber outsole grips well.
- It comes in a medium width.
13
Cushioned Everyday Training Shoe
Under Armour Charged Surge 4 - Men
Currently unavailable
Under Armour Charged Surge 4 - Women
Currently unavailable
The Under Armour Charged Surge 4 is a cushioned training shoe. It comes in men’s and women’s versions.
- The breathable mesh upper has synthetic overlays and extra padding around the ankle collar.
- The Charged Cushioning midsole and a molded sockliner give all-day comfort.
- The rubber outsole bends where you need it at toe-off, and the drop is 8 mm.
14
Lightweight Hiking Shoe, Wide Fit
Columbia Crestwood - Men
Currently unavailable
Columbia Crestwood - Women
Currently unavailable
The Columbia Crestwood is a light hiking shoe. It comes in men’s and women’s versions.
- The suede mesh upper is breathable and works best in dry conditions.
- The high-traction tread grips on dirt and rocks.
- It is light for a hiking shoe, and a wide fit is available.
Heel Wedges for Underpronation
1
Currently unavailable
A heel wedge is a small, self-adhesive gel piece that sits in the heel of a shoe you already own. This one cushions the heel and changes the angle of your foot slightly. It is washable, reusable and fits most shoes. Ask a podiatrist whether a wedge suits your foot before you try one.[4]
- Soft gel cushions the heel and adjusts foot alignment.
- The self-adhesive backing makes it easy to fit in most shoes and sandals.
- It is washable and reusable.
Index Table: Shoes for Underpronation Compared
| No. | Shoe | Men ♂ | Women ♀ | Features | Brand |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Asics® - Neutral Max-Cushion Running Shoe |  |  |
| Asics |
| 2 | Under Armour® - Neutral Everyday Running Shoe |  |  | Under Armour | |
| 3 | Brooks® - Neutral Plush Cushioned Running Shoe |  |  |
| Brooks |
| 4 | New Balance® - Casual Cushioned Cross Trainer |  |  | New Balance | |
| 5 | Saucony® - Neutral Daily Road Running Shoe |  |  |
| Saucony |
| 6 | Saucony® - Moderately Cushioned Running Shoe |  |  | Saucony | |
| 7 | Under Armour® - Lightweight Cushioned Running Shoe |  |  | Under Armour | |
| 8 | Nike® - Cushioned Running and Walking Shoe |  |  |
| Nike |
| 9 | Saucony® - Trail Running Shoe for Walks |  |  | Saucony | |
| 10 | New Balance® - Leather Walking Shoe With Abzorb |  |  | New Balance | |
| 11 | Skechers® - Max Cushion Bungee Lace Walker |  |  | Skechers | |
| 12 | adidas® - Lightweight Everyday Sneaker |  |  | adidas | |
| 13 | Under Armour® - Cushioned Everyday Training Shoe |  |  | Under Armour | |
| 14 | Columbia® - Lightweight Hiking Shoe, Wide Fit |  |  | Columbia |
Sources
- Cleveland Clinic. High Arch Feet (Pes Cavus): Causes, Symptoms & Treatment. Accessed October 26, 2026.
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (OrthoInfo). Athletic Shoes. Accessed October 26, 2026.
- American Podiatric Medical Association. Which Running Shoe is Right for You?. Accessed October 26, 2026.
- Cleveland Clinic. Orthotics: Definition, Risks, Benefits, Types & Tips. Accessed October 26, 2026.
Update History
- Oct 2026: Rewrote the shoe notes for all fourteen pairs, regrouped the sections, added a guide to managing underpronation, and replaced the sources
- Oct 2026: Updated Asics Nimbus 26 to Nimbus 28; replaced Brooks Ghost 15 with Under Armour Charged+ Assert 11; updated Brooks Glycerin 19 to Glycerin 23; replaced Asics Kinsei OG with New Balance 608 V5; updated Saucony Ride 14 to Ride 19; replaced Saucony ProGrid Triumph ISO 5 with Saucony Cohesion 14; replaced Hoka Bondi 8 with Under Armour Charged Assert 10; updated Nike Downshifter 10 to Downshifter 14; replaced Saucony Echelon LE2 with Saucony Excursion TR15; replaced New Balance MW813 with New Balance 577 V1; replaced Skechers Afterburn with Skechers Go Walk Max Cushioning Flex; replaced Birkenstock Milano with adidas X_PLR Path; added Columbia Crestwoodionic Tide with Under Armour Charged Surge 4; added Columbia Crestwood
- Oct 2026: Removed New Balance Vazee Pace v2, Dunham Blair, Rockport World Tour, Lowa Renegade GTX and Foot Scientific 4-Layer (unavailable)
- Oct 2026: Added a Key Specs table and a Sources section; checked availability of every product
- Sep 2015: Published
