Choosing the perfect running shoe is both an art and a science. Midfoot striking is a highly efficient running form, minimizing impact while maximizing forward momentum. However, it also means that finding shoes explicitly designed with your needs in mind can be tricky.
Running shoes designed for midfoot strikers boast unique features that cater to their distinctive gait. They typically come with greater flexibility and a more evenly distributed cushioning, accommodating the midfoot striker’s foot placement and promoting a natural, fluid stride.
The benefit of these shoes is twofold; they diminish potential strain and injury by offering optimal shock absorption right where it’s needed and enhance performance by facilitating a swift, efficient running motion. I have always struggled to find the perfect running shoe that provides comfort and support. Whether it was blister-prone shoes, lack of stability, or just overall discomfort during long runs, I have encountered my fair share of challenges when finding the ideal shoe for my running style.
But after years of trial and error, I am excited to share the top picks for the best running shoes for midfoot strikers. From personal experience and testing, these shoes will revolutionize your runs and provide maximum performance while keeping your feet happy. So, let’s lace up our sneakers and dive into this guide on finding the perfect fit for us midfoot strikers!
Our Top 3 Recommendations
Lightweight and comfortable
Fashionable style
Good cushioning for walking
Comfortable
Multiple color options
Versatile
More traditional 12mm drop
Simple and comfortable shoe
Stable heel, smooth transitions
Best Running Shoes For Midfoot Strikers - (Complete Reviews) At a Glance:
- Price Men's Trail Running Shoes
- ASICS Men's Gel-Venture 8 Mid-Top Running Shoes
- Brooks Men’s Trace 2 Neutral Running Shoe
- ASICS Men's Gel-Nimbus LITE 3 Running Shoes
- Saucony Men's Axon 2 Running Shoe
- ASICS Women's Gel-Venture 8 Running Shoes
- Brooks Women’s Trace 2 Neutral Running Shoe
- New Balance Women's Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe
- Under Armour Women's Surge 3 Running Shoe
- Saucony Women's Ride 15 Running Shoe
List of Top 10 Best Running Shoes For Midfoot Strikers
Price Men's Trail Running Shoes Fashion Walking Hiking Sneakers for Men
SPECIFICATIONS
Color: Black-1 | Outer material: TPU+Knitted Mesh | Origin: Imported | Closure type: Lace-Up | Sole material: Rubber
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Lightweight and comfortable
✓ Fashionable style
✓ Good cushioning for walking
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Sizing may run slightly big
The Kricely Men’s Trail Running Shoes are an excellent choice for midfoot strikers. Notably, they boast an advanced cushioning system that provides exceptional shock absorption and energy return. This feature is crucial for midfoot strikers as it helps minimize the impact on your feet and joints during runs. The shoes also feature a rugged outsole that offers superior traction, even on rough terrains. Whether running on a trail or a paved road, these shoes are designed to keep you steady and secure.
Moreover, the shoes are durable, ensuring they can withstand the demands of regular running. Additionally, they come in various fashionable designs, allowing you to hit the trails in style. The padded collar and tongue contribute to overall comfort, while the lace-up closure ensures a snug fit.
I can vouch for the quality and performance of the Kricely Men’s Trail Running Shoes. The exceptional cushioning system has revolutionized my running experience by significantly reducing foot stress. The shoes' breathability is a significant advantage, keeping my feet dry and comfortable even during long-distance runs. Lastly, I appreciate the shoes' durability as they have withstood regular use remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear.
ASICS Men's Gel-Venture 8 Mid-Top Running Shoes
SPECIFICATIONS
Color: Black | Outer material: Synthetic | Care instructions: Machine Wash | Origin: Imported | Sole material: Rubber
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Comfortable
✓ Multiple color options
✓ Versatile
✓ Break-in is optional
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Limited color available
The ASICS Men’s Gel-Venture 8 Mid Top Running shoes feature ASICS' trademark GEL technology in the rearfoot area for shock absorption, reducing the impact on the feet and joints during running. This is a crucial feature for midfoot strikers who need a shoe that can handle the stress of their unique running style. Additionally, these shoes come with a durable AHAR outsole that provides exceptional traction, making them suitable for various surfaces.
In terms of design, the ASICS Gel-Venture 8 shoes have a breathable synthetic mesh upper that keeps your feet cool and dry during your runs. The boots also feature a removable sockliner that can accommodate medical orthotics. Sturdy construction and stylish design make these shoes functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Speaking from experience, the ASICS Men’s Gel-Venture 8 has been a game-changer for my running routine. The gel cushioning technology provides the right amount of shock absorption for my midfoot strike, making my runs more comfortable and efficient.
The breathability of the shoes is another feature that I appreciate, as it prevents my feet from getting too hot during long runs. Furthermore, the added ankle support from the mid-top design has been incredibly beneficial, especially when running on trails or uneven surfaces. I highly recommend these shoes to any midfoot striker looking for comfort, durability, and performance.
Brooks Men’s Trace 2 Neutral Running Shoe
SPECIFICATIONS
Color: White/Black | Outer material: Mesh | Care instructions: Machine Wash | Closure type: Lace-Up | Origin: Imported
REASONS TO BUY
✓ More traditional 12mm drop
✓ Simple and comfortable shoe
✓ Stable heel, smooth transitions
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ A bit low around the ankle
The Brooks Men’s Trace 2 Neutral Running Shoe is a runner’s dream. This shoe is designed to provide maximum comfort and support for all types of runners, whether you are a seasoned marathoner or a beginner just starting. The rubber outsole provides excellent traction, making it a great shoe for running on various surfaces. This shoe offers additional comfort and protection with its plush interior lining and padded tongue and collar.
One of the standout features of this shoe is its BioMoGo DNA midsole. This adaptive cushioning adjusts to your stride, weight, and speed to help protect you by deflecting impact away from your body. It gives you a soft, comfortable ride without sacrificing responsiveness and durability.
I appreciate the excellent balance between cushioning and support that it offers. The shoe fits snugly around my foot, providing a secure feel without being too tight. The breathable mesh upper keeps my feet cool and comfortable, even on my longest runs. The shock-absorbing system does a remarkable job of smoothing out my stride, reducing fatigue, and helping me maintain my pace. In short, this shoe has made a significant difference in my running experience.
ASICS Men's Gel-Nimbus LITE 3 Running Shoes
SPECIFICATIONS
Color: Lake Drive/Hazard Green | Outer material: Polyester | Care instructions: Machine Wash | Closure type: Lace-Up | Sole material: Rubber
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Excellent foot lockdown
✓ Buttery smooth ride
✓ Softer ride
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Not very snappy
The ASICS Men’s Gel-Nimbus LITE 3 Running Shoes are designed to offer a blend of comfort, durability, and performance. These shoes are equipped with FLYTEFOAM technology, which provides excellent bounce back and responsiveness, reducing fatigue and allowing you to run longer distances quickly. The GEL cushioning system in the rear and forefoot significantly attenuates shock during the impact and toe-off phases, allowing smooth transitions throughout your gait cycle.
The AHARPLUS outsole is positioned strategically on high-wear areas, providing exceptional durability. The shoe also boasts an EVA sockliner that molds to the shape of your foot for an extra layer of comfort. The traditional lacing system ensures a secure fit, while the padded collar and tongue provide additional cushioning.
I find the ASICS Men’s Gel-Nimbus LITE 3 Running Shoes to be a game-changer. The shoe’s lightweight design and breathable mesh upper have significantly enhanced my comfort, keeping my feet cool and dry even on long runs. In conclusion, these shoes have greatly improved my overall running experience.
Saucony Men's Axon 2 Running Shoe
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Designed to push speeds
✓ Tons of cushion
✓ The redesigned upper is top-notch
✓ Excelled at all types of runs
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Rubber outsole can be slick on wet cement
The Saucony Men’s Axon 2 Running Shoe is a marvel of modern footwear engineering, designed with the needs of severe runners in mind. This shoe is a performance-driven footwear intended to cater to the needs of every runner. This shoe’s standout feature is its PWRRUN cushioning. The cushioning works with the durable rubber outsole, ensuring excellent traction and longevity, making these shoes a reliable partner for your running journey.
Another significant feature of the Axon 2 is its engineered mesh upper. This design allows maximum breathability, keeping your feet cool and comfortable throughout your run. The shoe also incorporates a traditional lace-up closure for a secure and adjustable fit.
Speaking from personal experience, the Saucony Men’s Axon 2 Running Shoe has genuinely elevated my running game. The breathability from the engineered mesh upper keeps my feet cool, preventing discomfort from heat build-up. Lastly, the FORMFIT technology gives me a personalized fit that makes it feel like these shoes were made just for me. In all, the Axon 2 is a game-changer for any serious runner.
ASICS Women's Gel-Venture 8 Running Shoes
SPECIFICATIONS
Color: Black/Ivory | Water resistance level: Not Water Resistant | Origin: Imported | Closure type: Lace-Up | Care instructions: Machine Wash
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Breathable
✓ Ideal for heel strikers
✓ ProviIt provides able run
✓ Tough outsole
✓ Features GEL technology
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Low arch support
ASICS Women’s Gel-Venture 8 shoes have many features that make them ideal for midfoot strikers. The rearfoot GEL technology cushioning system lessens shock during the impact phase and allows a smooth transition to midstance. This means you can run longer and harder without worrying about sore or tired feet.
The shoes are also designed with a removable sockliner to accommodate a medical orthotic. The reversed lugs on the outsole provide uphill and downhill traction on all terrain, making them perfect for those adventurous trail runs. To top it off, the shoe is made with durable synthetic leather, which adds a stylish touch to the overall design.
My friend noticed a significant difference when he switched to the ASICS Women’s Gel-Venture 8. He told me that these shoes provided the right amount of cushioning and support he needed for his midfoot strike. His running experience improved dramatically, and he increased his mileage without discomfort. This feedback from my friend, coupled with my own positive experience, solidified my belief in the quality and performance of these shoes.
Brooks Women’s Trace 2 Neutral Running Shoe
SPECIFICATIONS
Color: Oyster/Ebony/Pink | Outer material: Mesh | Care instructions: Machine Wash | Closure type: Lace-Up | Sole material: Rubber
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Comfortable BioMoGo DNA midsole
✓ Superior breathability
✓ Ideal for heel strikers
✓ Remarkably durable
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Limited energy return
Brooks Women’s Trace 2 shoe has been designed with features that cater specifically to our needs. The BioMoGo DNA midsole cushioning dynamically adapts to your stride, providing comfort and reducing impact on your joints. This means smoother, more comfortable runs, even on longer distances.
The shoe also features a breathable mesh upper for ventilated comfort, keeping your feet cool during intense runs. The durable rubber outsole ensures long-lasting wear and reliable traction on various surfaces. The padded tongue and collar offer additional comfort, while the traditional lace-up closure ensures a secure fit. All these features come together to create a shoe that’s comfortable, durable, and supportive for midfoot strikers.
My cousin, also a runner, had a less-than-ideal experience with his previous running shoes. When he switched to the Brooks Women’s Trace 2 Neutral Running Shoe, he noticed a significant difference. He told me these shoes provided the cushioning and support he needed for his midfoot strike, dramatically improving his running experience. He could run longer distances without discomfort, which was a significant win. Hearing about his positive experience and my own truly convinced me of the quality and performance of these shoes.
New Balance Women's Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe
SPECIFICATIONS
Color: Ice Blue/Night Sky/Pink Moon | Outer material: Rubber | Care instructions: Machine Wash | Origin: Imported | Sole material: Rubber
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Cloud-like cushioning
✓ Extremely flexible
✓ Great for easy/recovery runs
✓ Minimal break-in needed
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Not for wide feet
The first thing that caught my attention was the shoe’s sleek design; it’s stylish enough for a casual day out but also ideally suited for a rigorous workout. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is a game-changer. It provides an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride that makes running feel like floating. The engineered mesh upper ensures breathability, keeping my feet cool and dry during intense workouts.
The second key feature of these shoes is the durability. The solid rubber outsole has proven remarkably resilient, even after miles of running on various terrains. The comfort level is top-notch, too, thanks to the NB Response 2.0 performance insert. It provides soft and supportive cushioning that helps reduce foot fatigue. The lace-up closure offers a secure fit, allowing me to focus on my run without worrying about my shoes slipping off.
A colleague of mine had a different experience with running shoes before she tried the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Arishi V4. However, since she switched to the Arishi V4, she’s noticed a significant improvement. Not only did the blisters stop appearing, but she also mentioned feeling less tired after her runs. Her praises about the shoes' comfort and support have further convinced me that the Arishi V4 is a fantastic choice for any beginner or seasoned runner.
Under Armour Women's Surge 3 Running Shoe
SPECIFICATIONS
Color: (114) White/Fresh Orchid/Mystic Magenta | Outer material: Rubber | Care instructions: Machine Wash | Origin: Imported | Sole material: Rubber
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Very comfortable to wear
✓ Fit very well
✓ I feel fine on the run
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Heavy-weight
The Under Armour Women’s Surge 3 Running Shoe is an excellent choice for lightweight, breathable running shoes. The shoe has an upper mesh that allows for superior breathability, keeping your feet cool during long runs. The enhanced cushioning around the ankle collar is another feature that caught my attention. Another impressive feature is the Cushioned EVA midsole. It delivers a lightweight and responsive ride, vital for any runner.
The Under Armour Women’s Surge 3 Running Shoe also offers a slip-on design with dual side goring for a secure yet flexible fit. This is a feature people appreciate, as it saves time when you’re in a hurry for your morning runs. The shoe also has a breathable mesh lining for a more comfortable interior fit and feel. The EVA midsoles cradle your feet in support, and the mesh uppers keep your feet cool and comfortable. These shoes are perfect for running and everyday wear due to their comfort and stylish design.
My sister was pleasantly surprised. The shoes provided the comfort and support she needed, and she hasn’t experienced any discomfort or blisters since she started using them. I’m glad I could help her find a pair of shoes that suit her needs, and it reaffirms my faith in the Under Armour Women’s Surge 3 Running Shoes.
Saucony Women's Ride 15 Running Shoe
SPECIFICATIONS
Color: Alloy/Quartz | Outer material: Mesh | Care instructions: Machine Wash | Origin: Imported | Sole material: Rubber
REASONS TO BUY
✓ It is much lighter than the previous version
✓ Excellent foot lockdown
✓ Increase in cushioning
✓ Extremely versatile
✓ Softer ride
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Not waterproof
The Saucony Women’s Ride 15 Running Shoe is a brilliant choice for those searching for a shoe that can provide both qualities. The shoe features PWRRUN cushioning, which offers a soft yet responsive underfoot feel. This is an essential feature for me, as it helps to reduce the impact on my feet during my runs. The shoe also comes with a FORMFIT design, which adapts to the foot to provide a custom fit. This makes the shoe feel almost like a second skin, adding to the overall comfort.
The Saucony Women’s Ride 15 Running Shoe also boasts a blown rubber outsole, which adds to the shoe’s durability. It’s important for running shoes to be durable, especially when you’re logging long miles, and these shoes certainly meet that requirement. Another noteworthy feature is the engineered mesh upper, allowing optimal breathability. This feature is highly beneficial, as it keeps your feet cool and dry during running. The shoe also has a padded collar and tongue, which adds to the comfort level, making it ideal for long-distance running.
I suggested my friend try the Saucony Women’s Ride 15 Running Shoes, given my positive experiences with them. Initially hesitant, she finally gave them a shot. After several runs, she was pleasantly surprised by the shoes' comfort and support. Her foot pain has significantly reduced, and she can enjoy her runs again. Her positive experience reaffirms my trust in the Saucony Women’s Ride 15 Running Shoes.
Conclusion
Choosing the best running shoes for sciatica is crucial for any runner who wants to prevent or relieve pain. I have reviewed the top 10 running shoes designed to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with sciatica. The Kricely Men’s Trail Running Shoes are perfect for midfoot strikers. They are designed with superior grip and traction that offer stability on diverse surfaces, making them ideal for trail running or hiking.
Their advanced cushioning technology ensures optimal comfort, reducing impact and protecting the midfoot while running. On the other hand, ASICS Women’s Gel-Venture 8 Running Shoes feature a Rearfoot GEL technology cushioning system that attenuates shock during impact, providing smooth transitions. In addition, these shoes come with a removable sockliner that can accommodate a medical orthotic, offering customization for comfort and better foot health. These shoes provide incredible support and comfort for midfoot strikers, enhancing running efficiency and reducing injury risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Look for in a Running Shoe as a Midfoot Striker?
As a midfoot striker, you should look for shoes with balanced cushioning. The shoe should provide equal support in the heel and forefoot. Flexibility in the midsole and a neutral or low arch support are also necessary.
Are Minimalist Shoes Good for Midfoot Strikers?
Yes, minimalist shoes can be a good choice for midfoot strikers as they usually have a lower heel-to-toe drop, encouraging a midfoot strike. However, they offer less cushioning, which may only suit some.
Can I Wear Shoes Designed for Heel Strikers if I'm a Midfoot Striker?
While it’s not ideal, you can wear shoes designed for heel strikers. However, they may not provide support and cushioning in the midfoot area, potentially leading to discomfort or injury.