The 5 Best Women’s Running Shoes For Shin Splints [2024 Reviews]

Avoid painful running experiences, we look at this year's top shoes for shin splints

Our Editors independently research, test, and rate what we feel are the best products. We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases.

Shin splints are very painful for a runner, sometimes even forcing them to lay off their favorite form of exercise for days at a time while they recover.

If you are experiencing pain in the front and side of your shins after just a short run, you are most likely experiencing shin splints. While they may be a painful annoyance, it can be a sign of more damage, such as stress fractures in the tibia.

Here we will give you our top rated women’s running shoes for shin splints as well as how to choose the right pair for your particular needs. Ready to get started?

Best Women’s Running Shoes For Shin Splints

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 18NIKE Air Zoom Vomero 13 Running Shoeadidas Ultra Boost Running Shoe
editorschoice
Upper:Synthetic MeshTextileTextile / Synthetic Mesh
Sole:RubberRubberRubber
Sizes:5 to 13 in avg, narrow, wide5 to 12 in avg, narrow, wide5 to 12
Colors:11157

For more of my running gear recommendations, have a look through these popular Women’s Workout guide links: Running Jackets, Running Belts, Running Sunglasses.

Quick Answer: The 5 Best Rated Running Shoes For Shin Splints

  1. Brooks Womens Adrenaline GTS 18
  2. NIKE Women’s Air Zoom Vomero 13 Running Shoe
  3. Brooks Womens Ravenna 9
  4. Saucony Women’s Guide Iso Running Shoe
  5. adidas Performance Ultra Boost Street Running Shoe

We’ve reviewed the top shin splint running shoes on Amazon, followed by a comparison table and buying guide to help you decide on a pair that will work best for you.


Women’s Running Shoes For Shin Splints Reviews

Brooks Womens Adrenaline GTS 18 at a Glance:

  • Sizes: 5 to 13 in average, narrow, and wide
  • Colors: 11 choices
  • Heel to Toe Drop: 12 mm
  • Type of Support: Stability

The first pair of Brooks running shoes we feature are the Adrenaline GTS 18 model. The Adrenaline line shouldn’t be new to you in the world of running shoes as they are one of the best known options for serious runners.

This new Adrenaline GTS model, when compared to previous versions in this line they provide improved cushion as well as a look that can’t be beat.

Be seen in style with the best running shoes for shin splints.

If you are looking for a pair of running shoes to give you the best experience on road terrain, these just might be what you need.

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 18

The cushioning is designed with the avid runner in mind, knowing that shin splints are common. The breathable mesh upper allows for a run with cool and dry feet.

The fit of the Brooks Adrenaline adjusts to your liking through a midfoot saddle, creating a more secure fit. This is ideal for those who experience shin splints during or after their run.


Nike Women's Air Zoom Vomero 13 Running Shoe

NIKE Air Zoom Vomero 13 Running Shoe at a Glance:

  • Sizes: 5 to 12
  • Colors: 15 choices
  • Heel to Toe Drop: 10 mm
  • Type of Support: Neutral

Not only does the Nike Air Zoom Vomero 13 provide superior function through their highly researching running shoe technology, it gives a great look to your run as well.

Why not be the envy of the runners you pass on the road with these Vomero 13’s? This newest version of Nike’s Air Zoom line are more comfortable with additional lightweight cushion.

This particular Air Zoom model will allow you to push yourself with every run while still preventing shin splints with ideal support for those with a neutral gait.

The Lunarlon foam used to create the strong midsole helps to absorb hard landings and offer smooth transition from heel to toe making these running shoes for shin splints a good choice.


Brooks Womens Ravenna 9 at a Glance:

  • Sizes: 5 to 12 in average, narrow, and wide
  • Colors: 4 choices
  • Heel to Toe Drop: 10 mm
  • Type of Support: Stability

Brooks is a brand name synonymous with quality running shoes. This is the second of two Brooks options we have for you.

Compared to previous versions in the Brooks Ravenna line, this Ravenna is lighter and offers much more stability.

Being made of lightweight and quality materials, you still get the surface grip and comfortable fit you need as a runner.

However, these Brooks Ravenna are good running shoes for shin splints because of the support they offer the back of the foot and the ankle.

The diagonal roll bar is ideal when choosing the best sneakers for shin splints as they provide the stability & support that many runners need, especially if they are heavy pronators.

The sole of the Brooks Ravenna is designed for quick running or even sprinting with a transition section in the midfoot of the sole.

This allows for the shoe to respond quickly and effortlessly as you transition from heel to toe while running.


Saucony Women’s Guide Iso Running Shoe at a Glance:

  • Sizes: 5 to 12 in average, narrow, and wide
  • Colors: 7 choices
  • Heel to Toe Drop: 9 mm
  • Type of Support: Stability

When looking for a shoe that offers superior stability for those that suffer from pronation, the Saucony Guide ISO are the best womens running shoes for shin splints.

Saucony has been researching and designing some of the most supportive running shoes for years, making these perfectly designed for those who need extra support in the midfoot.

This also provides a quick, responsive transition from heel to toe.

With the Saucony Guide ISO women’s running shoes, you also get their advanced Grid technology.

Gear Guide: Saucony Guide ISO

This technology allows the sole of the shoe to provide the stability you need while also providing cushion for the hardcore runner.

If you are looking for good running shoes for shin splints, these are a perfect option.


adidas Performance Ultra Boost Street Running Shoe at a Glance:

  • Sizes: 6 to 11 in average
  • Colors: 6 choices
  • Heel to Toe Drop: 8 mm
  • Type of Support: Neutral

Adidas is a forerunner when it comes to making the best running shoes to prevent shin splints.

If you have a neutral gait, or something close to it, the Adidas Ultraboost running shoes offer the cushion and transition technology you need to prevent painful shin splints.

The cushion, provided mostly through a very responsive insole, prevents the hard landings that can cause unwanted movement in the foot and ankle.

The breathable upper of the Adidas Ultraboost running shoes not only keeps your feet dry and cool while running, and also allow for a flexible and superior fit.

Plus, you can’t go wrong with the look of the Ultraboost. You can head out for your run in style.


Running Shoes For Shin Splints Comparison Table

Running ShoesUpperSoleSizesColorsRating
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 18Synthetic MeshRubber5 to 13 avg, narrow, wide114.5 / 5.0
NIKE Women's Air Zoom Vomero 13 Running ShoeTextileRubber5 to 12 avg, narrow, wide154.4 / 5.0
Brooks Womens RavennaTextileRubber5 to 12 avg, narrow, wide43.8 / 5.0
Saucony Women's Guide Iso Running ShoeTextileRubber5 to 12 avg, narrow, wide64.1 / 5.0
adidas Performance Ultra BoostTextile / Synthetic MeshRubber5 to 1273.9 / 5.0

How to Choose the Best Women’s Running Shoes For Shin Splints

best running shoes to prevent shin splints

Every brand and model of running shoes we’ve featured in our list of the 5 top women’s running shoes for shin splints utilize different, proprietary technologies and designs.

However, that doesn’t tell you which shoe is the best for you. There are 5 core elements when shopping for good running shoes to prevent shin splints. Be sure to look at each aspect and decide how important they are when making your choice.

Durability

All 5 of the shoes we’ve featured are durable and will stand up to the test of even the most hardcore runners. These shoes will last you quite a while even with daily runs.

When choosing your new shoes, we sure to look at the type of materials they are made of. This will tell you how durable they really are. However, going with a name brand usually always means quality materials and a durable design.

Fit

The fit of a running shoe is unique to every runner. When choosing good running shoes for shin splints, you need a fit that doesn’t just provide plenty of cushion, but cushion in the right areas.

Do you need a springy instep to support and reduce stress on the arch of your foot? Do you need a specific type of lacing design that wraps your foot perfectly?

Take some time to decide what fit is ideal for you and compare them.

Comfort

There’s no doubt that comfort is vital when choosing the right running shoes. Cushion helps to create the comforting cradle for your feet, but the ways in which this is designed are different for every shoe manufacturer. Most of the time, the cushion comes from the design and materials of the insoles.

However, the Grid technology of the Saucony Guide ISO line featured above moves some of the cushions to the sole itself, adding to the comfort of the shoe.

Stability

If you have a neutral gait, stability is not quite as important as your foot stays fairly stable on its own. However, even the two shoes we feature above that are made for a neutral motion provide stability.

If you pronate when walking, and especially while running, you need added stability. This stability will help your foot, ankle, and knee stabilize, which can help reduce the chances of developing shin splints.

Features

There are other features you may find important in your sneakers for shin splints. Do you need a breathable upper to keep your feet cool and dry while running?

Do you need an adjustable fit that offers comfort and stability? Do you need awesome design elements that make your new shoes stand out from the crowd? Take a look at our top 5 list and look for any features that may help your running game.

best womens running shoes for shin splints

FAQs About Shoes For Shin Splints

When shopping for the best women’s shoes for shin splints, you probably have some questions. Most people do when shopping for any kind of running accessories and apparel.

Here we answer the top 5 questions we receive about running shoes for shin splints.

Q: How do I know it’s shin splints causing my pain?

A: Shin splints are fairly easy to diagnose. If you haven’t encountered this pain before, it may be the kick you need to purchase the right shoes, preventing shin splints altogether. If you have been experiencing shin splints for some time, it’s definitely time to find shoes to prevent the problem.

If you have tenderness and are very sensitive to touch in your lower leg, on either side of the shin, it may be a sign of shin splints. However, shin splints can also cause aches and pains on the interior of the shin.

If you are noticing swelling as well as redness, you may want to see a podiatrist to get an official diagnosis. Shin splints can be a sign of worsening damage to your tibia, or shin bone, such as stress fractures.

Q: What causes shin splints?

A: Shin splints can be caused by not wearing proper footwear when running, but may also be a lack of mobility. You can increase your mobility through proper warm-ups and stretching before you run. The tightness of the muscles in the lower leg as well as feet can cause the inflammation that leads to shin splints.

Q: How can I fix the problem?

A: The best way to prevent shin splints in the future is having the proper shoes. What running shoes are good for shin splints? You will need to get a pair of running shoes that is supportive and cushioned, also offering ideal transitioning from heel to toe.

If you are already experiencing shin splints, you can try to remedy the problem at home through cold therapy, wearing compression socks, or even massage. Physical therapy may be necessary if the problem is severe.

Q: How do I know I’m getting a good value when purchasing sneakers for shin splints?

A: When shopping for good running shoes for shin splints, you want to look at the research and development that is put into the shoe. Most name brands like Nike and adidas are known for their running shoes and will have developed proprietary designs unique to them that offer the best features.

Buying a cheap pair of running shoes at a box store isn’t value when you are going to have to deal with shin splints and other problems. Go with a name brand that has features designed specifically for shin splints..

Q: How important is breathability when choosing shoes for shin splints?

A: While breathability doesn’t cause or cure shin splints, it is a great design element to look for. If your feet get hot and sweaty very quickly, you may have to shorten your run-time.

It can also lead to hygiene problems when running often. Breathability keeps your feet cool, dry, and healthy. Plus, many of the breathable uppers are very lightweight and can reduce the weight of the shoe.

Tips to Reduce Your Chances of Developing Shin Splints

If you are dreading the pain that comes every time you go out for a run, you want to follow these tips to help prevent shin splints. Nothing should slow you down, including shin splints.

Tip #1: Wear Running Shoes that Fit Properly

Properly fitting running shoes are one of the best ways to prevent shin splints. They should offer a secure fit that is comfortable and cushioned. You don’t want to wear a shoe that is either too small or too large for your foot as well, since this reduces the stability offered by the running shoe.

Tip #2: Switch to Other Exercises if you Experience Shin Splints

If shin splints have you sidelined for a while, it’s time to get up and moving, even if it isn’t on your favorite running path. You can try crosstraining to get in a workout that isn’t hard on your shins, or even participate in aqua-exercise. This gets you moving, including your legs, but in a way that has no impact on your feet and ankles.

Tip #3: Vary the Surfaces You Choose to Run On

If you always run on a trail, or you always run on road surfaces, it may be time to change things up a bit. Running on different surfaces is just like doing various exercises at the gym. Your legs will get a slightly different workout depending on the surface you are running on. This prevents overuse of the same muscles in your legs each time you run.

Tip #4: Don’t Fall Victim to “Overstriding”

Overstriding refers to taking steps while running that are too long. When your strides are longer, you put a lot of stress on the heel when you land, and this puts strain on the ankle as well as the muscles in the lower leg. Try counting the number of strides you take during a 60-second period. Try adjusting your stride so you take shorter strides but more steps in the same period of time.

Tip #5: Warm up Properly Before Every Run

Allowing your legs to warm up with a proper pre-run routine greatly helps to reduce the chances of shin splints. Running in place for a few minutes helps as long as you aren’t going to hard. You also want to stretch your quads, hamstrings, and calves. While there are many ways to do this, it is important to choose a pre-run routine that works for you.

Shin Splints Don’t Have to Ruin Your Run

Wearing a pair of the best women’s running shoes for shin splints will go a long way toward preventing future episodes of shin splints, especially if you make additional changes to your run, like adding a warm up and stretch routine prior to every run. Step out in style, and comfort, with the best shoes for shin splints.

How We Researched

To come up with the top running shoes for shin splints, we researched a variety of sources for reviews such as REI, Walmart, Target and Dick’s Sporting Goods along with our own personal experience.

The authors consulted sources such as online magazines for research and reviews unbiased information.

By using Fakespot.com we tried to eliminate fake reviews and use only genuine ones.

With so many options available, the authors narrowed down the selections by using products they felt were the best value for the money.

The staff authors have a wide and varied background as fitness trainers, yoga instructors and runners. The authors have decades of experience and are eager to share their knowledge with readers.

In order to narrow down the options, we used personal experiences plus recommendations from other trainers and instructors.

Sources


Notice:

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Ericka Parker

Ericka started her career as a personal trainer over 20 years ago and her goal was to help people become healthy, happy and fit. To do this she would find out their goals and provide the tools and routines to help them reach them. As her career progressed, she added yoga training to her skills to help her clients achieve mindfulness and help with clients mobility. To help more people she started bestwomensworkouts.com to help other people achieve their fitness goals with advice, tips and fitness equipment reviews.
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