Orthotics, also known as orthotic inserts or arch supports, are devices that are worn inside shoes to provide additional support and cushioning to the feet.
They are commonly used to treat a variety of foot conditions, such as plantar fasciitis, overpronation, and flat feet.
When looking for running shoes to wear with orthotics, it is important to find a pair that has ample room in the toe box and is designed with a stable, supportive platform.
In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the best neutral running shoes for orthotics on the market today.
List of 10 Best Neutral Running Shoes For Orthotics
1. Hoka Mach 4
The Hoka Mach 4 is a true jack-of-all-trades when it comes to running shoes. It’s versatile enough to handle everything from daily runs to faster-paced workouts, thanks to its light and nimble design.
But don’t let the ultralight construction fool you – this shoe is packed with padding that will keep your feet cushioned and comfortable all the way through your run.
One of the standout features of the Mach 4 is its use of Hoka’s new PROFLY foam, which provides a cushioned feel while also delivering more energy return than other foams.
The rubberized foam outsole offers excellent traction, making it a great shoe for runners of all levels. But be aware that the outsole can wear down quickly.
The Hoka Mach 4’s upper has undergone a re-design, making it more comfortable, to fulfill the needs of a wider range of runners, especially for those who have wider feet. But the shoe is not offered in wide sizes.
If you’re a neutral runner, these shoes will provide you with the support and comfort you need to tackle any run with confidence. They truly are an all-around great shoe that’s perfect for anyone looking to improve their running game.
2. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22
Features
- Imported
- Rubber sole
- Mesh knit upper
- DNA LOFT cushioning
- Brooks GuideRails technology
The Adrenaline GTS 22 is made to provide a perfect balance of support and softness.
The shoes have a mesh knit upper that provides enough breathability even with plush padding.
The soft midsole and Segmented Crash Pad are combined for easier flow from landing to toe-off.
The shoes provide a smooth ride and comfort and they are ideal for soft landings and everyday runs.
The shoes have Brooks GuideRails technology that offers excellent cushioning and medium support.
The shoes come with an updated midsole that has 100% DNA LOFT cushioning to give you a soft, smooth ride.
The heel counter of Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 is more padded and stiffer than the previous versions.
Overall, the shoes are very comfortable, supportive, and lightweight, look great, provide excellent grip on both wet and dry surfaces, and are highly recommended.
3. Saucony Ride 15
Features
- Imported
- Rubber sole
- PWRRUN foam insole
The Saucony Ride 15 has a softer PWRRUN foam (E-TPU) insole that provides more soft cushioning with less weight to give you the springiest and most comfortable run yet.
The Ride 15 delivers a comfort-first sensation and they have an engineered mesh upper with an inner sleeve, fused overlays, and a midfoot strap.
The new heel and forefoot beveling gives you a smooth stride and can help you to propel effortlessly from heel to toe.
For an incredibly personalized and supportive fit, the shoes have deeper contouring into the midsole.
The Saucony Ride 15 upper has more room than its previous model because of the updated interiors and lightweight mesh.
Overall, The shoes are very comfortable, supportive, durable, breathable, lightweight, fit perfectly, and are highly recommended.
4. Brooks Beast 20
The Brooks Beast 20 is a shoe that is specifically designed for runners who are in search of the ultimate support, cushioning, and comfort.
It’s perfect for runners who require a little extra space in the forefoot and it is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe, which was granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance.
One of the standout features of the Beast 20 is its DNA LOFT cushioning, which provides a super-soft and luxurious feeling underfoot.
The engineered-mesh upper and conformable embroidered saddle enhances the fit, making it comfortable from front to back.
Additionally, Brooks has shifted its focus to the most injury-prone part of a runner’s body, the knees, to provide GuideRails support that keeps excess movement in check for a holistic support system.
The design of the Brooks Beast 20 has been reconstructed, with an embroidered saddle and eyestay that creates a modern look and strategic structure. With this shoe, runners can enjoy a luxurious run while keeping their feet safe.
The Beast 20’s soft insole and spacious fit make it an ideal option for those who wear orthotics. as the shoe can comfortably accommodate orthotic inserts without the need for a larger size.
5. Saucony Echelon 8
Features
- Imported
- Rubber sole
- 3D heel counter
- TRI-FLEX outsole
- Synthetic-and-mesh
- Ultra-plush sockliner
The New PWRRUN cushioning provides softness and a springy, more responsive feel for endless miles of comfort.
The gait cycle is enhanced for improved balance with evenly distributed cushioning.
The Saucony Echelon 8 has a smoother toe-to-heel transition while walking and running.
The shoes are more stable all thanks to the new lightweight midfoot support panel.
The 3D heel counter provides additional security and the TRI-FLEX outsole optimizes flexibility.
The Saucony Echelon 8 Running Shoe has an improved fit and it is more comfortable than the previous versions.
The Saucony Echelon 8 Running Shoes are one of the best option for runners who need support or use orthotics.
Overall, The shoes are super comfortable, very stable, durable, have great arch support, and are highly recommended.
6. Brooks Dyad 11
Features
- Made in USA
- Rubber sole
- Plush Fit
- Stability
- Secure Fit
- Stable Ride
- Generous Fit
- Super Soft Cushioning
It is ideal for runners who want a secure fit and a stable feel.
It is created for orthotics usage, and for people with a low or flat arch.
Runners with slightly wider feet will also appreciate extra space in the forefoot.
It has BioMoGo DNA cushioning which provides the midsole very comfortable feel during your run or walk and guarantees less shock while walking or running on hard surfaces such as concrete.
It has more toe room for people with wide feet and for wearers who need to fit orthotics comfortably.
Its dual arch pods provide the foot more safety, stability, and flexibility.
Its ultimate sockliner adds cushioning to get a plush in-shoe feel.
Its mesh upper ensures breathability and handles moisture at best keeping the feet dry and cool.
7. New Balance 940 V4
Features
- 50% Synthetic
- 50% Mesh
- Imported
- Stability
- Breathable
- Rubber Sole
- ABZORB Midsole
- 12mm heel drop
- Dual Density Medial Post
- T-BEAM torsional stability technology
The 940v4 stability running shoe is designed for overpronators with stability problems.
Its ABZORB midsole absorbs impact through a combination of cushioning and compression resistance
Its dual-density post gives additional stability.
It is made with a high-density medial post, T-BEAM technology for torsional stability in the shoe.
The roomier end, together with breathable fabrics and ABSORB cushioning makes this shoe perfect for painful foot conditions like bunions.
The outside fabric is designed to promote both breathability and flexibility during extreme exercises.
8. Brooks Addiction GTS 15
The Brooks Addiction GTS 15 is a shoe that has been designed for road running or walking, it’s perfect for those who are looking for a supportive running shoe that can cater to their flat-to-low arch feet.
The midsole drop of 12mm is considered average, but it’s higher than that of other models, which is what makes it suitable for flat feet.
The special ‘BioMoGo DNA’ cushioning that is used in this model gives the midsole a plush and comfortable feel throughout the walk or run.
The fit of these shoes is designed to accommodate both flat and wide feet, also narrow feet, which is perfect for those who need to comfortably fit orthotics in their shoes.
The Addiction GTS 15 provides smooth transitions thanks to its special heel design and added cushioning in the sock liner.
The shoes provide maximum support and control, that’s why it’s great for orthotic wearers who want added stability. The progressive diagonal rollbar is a feature that makes the shoes unique and beneficial for those who need extra support and control.
Overall, If you are an orthotic wearer in search of a shoe that provides added stability, The Addiction GTS 15 by Brooks should be a great option for you to consider.
9. ALTRA Lone Peak 6
The Altra Lone Peak 6 is a trail shoe that is designed to keep you focused and in control on the most challenging terrain.
The MaxTrac outsole and multi-directional TrailClaw lug pattern provide superior grip and traction, allowing you to tackle any obstacle that comes your way.
The Balanced Cushioning platform is a unique feature that places the heel and forefoot at the same distance from the ground.
This design encourages low-impact landings, reduces the risk of injury, and promotes a more natural running experience. It’s perfect for orthotic wearers as the design supports the foot and provides a low-impact landing which reduces the pressure on the foot.
The FootShape toe box is an additional benefit for orthotic wearers as it allows the toes to relax and spread out naturally.
The Altra’s EGO midsoles provide a responsive yet soft ride, this feature provides the perfect balance of support and comfort, and it’s great for runners who want to enjoy a comfortable run.
Overall, The Altra Lone Peak 6 is a perfect shoe for those who are looking for a comfortable, stable, and responsive trail shoe that can handle any terrain and can give you a comfortable and natural running experience.
10. ASICS Gel-Kayano 28
Features
- Imported
- Rubber sole
- Engineered Mesh Upper
- 3D SPACE CONSTRUCTION
- Dynamic DuoMax Support System
- Redesigned external heel counter
- Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Technology Cushioning System
The shoes have a Multi-directional engineered mesh upper to improve stability and breathability.
The shoes feature 3D Space Construction to improve cushioning and compression at the footstrike.
The Redesigned external heel counter keeps the foot more stable and gives a more comfortable stride.
The Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Technology Cushioning System decrease the shock during impact and toe-off phases.
The Dynamic DuoMax Support System increases support and stability, with reduced weight and increased platform support.
Overall, The shoes are very comfortable, stable, have excellent support, great quality, and are highly recommended.
How To Choose The Best Neutral Running Shoes For Orthotics
Straight Last:
A straight-lasted shoe is the best option for adding an orthotic since it fits a wider-rectangle-shaped foot, which means there is space to accommodate an orthotic. This is important when you want a wider or full-length orthotic.
A straight-lasted shoe based on its construction is a rigid and stable shoe, so it is a good fit for those who wear orthotics. Obviously, it is vital to ensure that the shoe isn’t too large and is loose around the ankles.
More Volume In Upper:
An orthotic will take more volume in a shoe compared to the standard sockliner. This makes it a challenge to put on an orthotic in lower-volume shoes.
Pick a shoe that’s at least medium in its overall upper dimensions, and possibly look at buying a wide shoe that will provide extra volume.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Orthotic-Friendly Shoes Really Important?
The necessity of orthotic-friendly shoes is an important factor to consider. Many shoes come with a pre-installed insert, but these are often not of the same quality as custom or over-the-counter orthotics.
It’s essential to ensure that the original inserts in your shoes are removable or, if they are glued in, be prepared to remove them to make room for more advanced orthotics.
Removing the original inserts in your shoes will create more space for orthotics to fit comfortably and prevent that cramped feeling in the feet.
Investing in a pair of orthotic-friendly shoes is an investment in your foot health, comfort, and performance.
Can You Use Orthotics in Any Type of Shoe?
When it comes to custom orthotics, one of the most common questions is about the compatibility of the inserts with different types of shoes.
The reality is, not every shoe is suitable for orthotics. Wearing your inserts with flip flops or Crocs can be a challenge or may be not possible.
However, with a little bit of planning and consideration, you can ensure that the majority of the shoes in your collection will be compatible with your custom orthotics.
So, it’s important to choose the right shoes that can accommodate orthotics for better comfort and support.
Final Words:
If you like this article then please share it and if you have any doubts then feel free to comment below Thank You.
Also Read:
- Best Shoes For Grass Volleyball
- Best Men’s Dress Shoes Under 200
- Best Running Shoes For Mortons Neuroma
Himanshu is a shoe enthusiast and founder of bestshoesworld.com, a website dedicated to providing in-depth reviews and information on the latest shoe trends and styles. With a passion for all things footwear, Himanshu has made it his mission to help others find the perfect pair of shoes to fit their needs and preferences.