No two runners are exactly alike. They have different foot shapes, pronations, gaits, and styles. While this means that every individual runner is unique, it’s also what makes choosing the perfect running shoe a challenge. Fortunately, there are countless running shoes available to suit every different running style.
Stability running shoes are for runners who overpronate and/or have flat feet. Overpronation is when the runner’s ankle rolls inward rather than remaining neutral or direct. Stability shoes provide the support overpronators need to correct their pronation and return the foot to a natural position.
According to the North Texas Podiatry Associates, about 20 to 30 percent of people have flat feet. Flat feet increase a runner’s risk of injury and can cause various pains from the feet to the back. Stability running shoes help prevent these common issues.
Our reviewers researched and tested the best stability running shoes available in 2024. The mission is to help runners who overpronate find shoes that are safe and supportive, so they can reach their running and fitness goals.
What Makes a Great Stability Running Shoe?
Stability running shoes include additional support in the arch area of the foot. This may take the form of removable insoles, medial posts, built-in arch support, and a variety of features.
Our reviewers agreed they want stability running shoes to meet their criteria for the best neutral running shoes too. They should be well-cushioned, breathable, comfortable, lightweight, and durable. A stability running shoe shouldn’t sacrifice comfort or cushioning for added support.
We assigned this project specifically to our team members with flat feet. They laced up in this year’s latest and greatest running shoes to give you honest reviews. Our mission is to help you find the most comfortable, best-fitting running shoes that provide the support you need.
The Best Supportive Running Shoes for 2024
These are the best running shoes with support features for 2024, designed for runners with flat feet, overpronation, and prior injuries that require additional support.
- HOKA Arahi 7
- Saucony Guide 17
- New Balance Fresh Foam 860v14
- Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23
- Asics GT-2000 v12
- On Cloudrunner 2
- HOKA Gaviota 5
- Mizuno Wave Horizon 7
- PUMA ForeverRun Nitro
- Asics Gel-Kayano 31
HOKA Arahi 7
The HOKA Arahi 7 is built to help runners who struggle with overpronation. Every brand has a different method of providing support, and Hoka relies on their innovative J-Frame technology. This supportive midsole supports the medial side of the foot, and paired with the Early Stage Meta-Rocker geometry, cushions the arches of the feet and prevents them from flattening.
This J-frame provides noticeable support both along the medial and lateral sides of the shoe and encourages proper form for runners with overpronation. Even better, it does so without adding any extra weight to the shoe. It cradles the foot and provides a level of stability for an everyday run or walk.
Along with the additional support and rocker shape, the Arahi 7 offers over 30 mm of plush cushioning, a 5mm heel-to-toe drop and a snug and breathable fit. The HOKA Arahi 7’s rubber outsole offers great traction, while the gusseted tongue, dual gusset under the lace closure, and EVA midsole make this shoe even more comfortable for daily runs.
Saucony Guide 17
Designed to handle your daily mileage, workouts, or casual everyday movement, the Saucony Guide 17 running shoe is a reliable training partner that you’ll keep coming back to.
Saucony initiated a total revamp of the Guide by disregarding the traditional medial post. The new Guide 17 instead uses Saucony CENTERPATH Technology. This technology includes a broader platform, higher sidewalls, and an asymmetrical profile, all coming together to cradle your foot and smoothly guide you through the gait cycle.
Our reviewers also loved the redesigned mesh upper. This new mesh upper securely wraps your foot while being as breathable as ever. If you have loved the Saucony Guide in the past you will truly appreciate this great update.
New Balance Fresh Foam 860v14
Designed with long runs in mind, the New Balance Fresh Foam 860v 14 is perfect for anyone who is going to spend a lot of time on their feet in their running shoes.
These shoes offer plenty of stability and cushion to keep a runner steady and comfortable as they rack up the mileage. And while they offer great support, the latest version of the 860 maintains a lightweight and soft underfoot feel. Weighing less than 9 ounces, the New Balance Fresh Foam 860s are easy to pack into a gym bag for workouts on the go.
To add extra comfort and stability, New Balance used new technology to improve the wearer’s experience. The stiff and rigid medial post seen in past models is replaced with a stability plane. This support helps keep runners steady with each step while the Fresh Foam X cushioning makes a soft and supportive landing bed for the foot. The heel-to-toe drop is 8 mm, providing a very subtle incline that feels natural. The updated New Balance Fresh Foam 860v14 is a solid option for runners who deal with overpronation.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23
The Brooks brand started focusing solely on running in 2001, and that’s when fans truly began taking notice. Among their standout offerings is the Adrenaline GTS 23. This supportive shoe is built around GuideRail technology that gently guides your movement into the most efficient motion while reducing strain on your feet, ankles, knees, and hips.
Meanwhile, the engineered air mesh upper is made with a 3D Fit Print for improved structure while still keeping weight down. Each pair measures in at just 10.1 ounces for men and 9.1 ounces for women. Plus, it’s made from nearly 60% recycled materials, keeping more than 11 plastic bottles out of landfills for each pair.
But Brooks didn’t forget comfort when it designed this new model. DNA LOFT v2 cushioning now makes up the entire midsole, producing the softest and lightest version yet. A segmented crash pad also provides additional support by flexing as your foot does. This versatile, stylish shoe truly does it all.
Asics GT-2000 v12
Iconic running shoe maker Asics is out with an improved version of its popular GT-2000 model, designed for runners with a neutral stride or overpronation. It all starts with the all-new 3D GUIDANCE SYSTEM, a comprehensive set of features to provide stability that adapts to when and where you need it.
This innovative guidance system includes wider basenets, an increased heel bevel for smoother transitions, and a subtle forefoot flare for an even smoother ride. The GT-2000 is as soft as it is supportive, with Asics’ FF BLAST PLUS cushioning combined with PureGEL technology for more cushioned, responsive landings. There’s also an OrthoLite X-30 sock liner for easy, step-in comfort.
The GT-2000 v12 looks as good as it performs, with a jacquard mesh upper that’s highly breathable and includes reflective details to improve safety during those nighttime or early morning runs. There’s also an ultratough AHAR LO-HRD rubber outsole that stands up to any kind of wear runners can throw at it, from the track to the trail.
On Cloudrunner 2
On is a running company known for emphasizing cushioning. The Cloudrunner is their most popular stability shoe, offering unbeatable comfort and the support mild overpronators need to log miles and reach their goals.
The foot-cradling bottom unit combines with CloudTec® technology that adapts to a runner’s style and gait. The 31 mm of new Helion superfoam adds plenty of plushness and comfort while maintaining a responsive underfoot experience.
The Cloudrunner 2 is an abundantly-cushioned and supportive running shoe that remains lightweight and breathable. Our reviewers noted that the combination of comfort and support is ideal for brisk walkers or runners just getting into the sport.
HOKA Gaviota 5
The Gaviota 5 is another great stability running shoe option. Hoka uses its innovative H-Frame technology to provide control and support. The H-Frame helps reduce inward rolling with each step. Because the frame of the shoe is so solid, the cushioning can be extra soft, providing all-day comfort for long wear.
The enjoyable wearing experience doesn’t end with the frame or cushioning. The breathable creel jacquard mesh upper keeps feet cool and drier. It’s also an eco-friendly material, made from sustainable vegan and recycled products. The plush tongue and collar make sure every part of the foot and ankle are cushioned, preventing irritation or pain during an extended run.
The Hoka Gaviota 5 is also recognized by the American Podiatric Medical Association as a product that is beneficial to foot health. It’s available in regular and wide widths in a variety of colors so everyone can find their perfect fit and style.
Mizuno Wave Horizon 7
Boasting plenty of support, resilience, and cushioning, the Mizuno Wave Horizon 7 is one of the best stability running shoes. This shoe is designed with Mizuno Enerzy Foam, which provides more cushioning with every step. Enerzy Foam integrated into the midsole core also adds a bit of spring to your stride, creating a balanced running experience with plenty of energy return.
Mizuno maintains a more traditional form of medial support with the Wave Horizon 7. The asymmetrical medial support, along with a rubber wall technology, make this shoe ideal for more moderate overpronators who want a little more support and cushioning. With the more noticeable and prominent support, these shoes are a bit heavier than some of its stability runner shoe counterparts.
The Mizuno Wave Horizon 7 also features a smooth and stretchy woven fabric that moves with the foot as runners move, keeping the foot and ankle in a stable position. A gusseted tongue also hugs the foot, holding it in place. Runners who also do a fair amount of walking will like the support and feel of the Mizuno Wave Horizon 7.
PUMA ForeverRun Nitro
PUMA is bringing something new to the world of stability running shoes with the ForeverRUN Nitro line. PUMA is combining two important innovations to make this shoe special: NITRO foam and the RUNGUIDE system. The NITRO foam midsole is created to provide ample softness and comfort without losing any stability. The foam is used both in the softer core of the shoe and the asymmetrical heel. That heel is shaped to hold the foot in place throughout the run or walk.
On the outsole, a wide medial rubber segment brings more stability, protecting against pronation. PUMA’s RUNGUIDE system uses a firm rail in the frame of the shoe to keep the foot centered and aligned for the best performance. Engineered mesh keeps the feet cool, making this a good shoe for frequent runners with mild overpronation issues.
Saucony Omni 21
Saucony markets the Omni 21 as “Structure Cushioning.” It’s an everyday running shoe that offers cushioned support via dual-density PWRRUN foam that’s impressively soft and lightweight. The Omni 21 feels bouncy and cloud-like from the first mile to the last.
Support comes from the shoe’s unique underfoot design, stiff medial post, and FORMFIT structure that feels almost customized. The snug fit and supportive webbing helps hold the foot in place.
The Saucony Omni 21 is certified by the American Podiatric Medical Association as a product that’s beneficial to foot health.
Asics Gel-Kayano 31
Stability is the top focus of the Asics Gel-Kayano 31, with a design that is made to adapt to the needs of the individual runner. The trademarked 4D Guidance System was created to adjust with every step while still keeping the foot in its proper place. Inside the midsole, PureGel technology works with the increased cushioning to enhance shock absorption, keeping the feet feeling better on long runs and walks.
The Asics Gel-Kayano 31 is a good choice for a wide variety of runners; it can be worn by runners with a natural step pattern or people who deal with overpronation. The cushioning in the shoe is also made with bio-based materials from renewable sources, perfect for the environmentally conscious runner.
Final Thoughts
Injuries are, unfortunately, all too common among runners. And for runners with flat feet or over pronation issues, there are even more common injuries to worry about. From plantar fasciitis to shin splints and knee pain, improper alignment while running can have painful consequences. The right stability running shoe can help combat these issues so you can continue striving toward your running and fitness goals pain-free.
In addition to offering the industry’s best supportive running shoes listed above, Marathon Sports offers the top neutral running shoes, cushioned running shoes, long-distance running shoes, and other styles to suit all types of runners. Our team of experts is dedicated to helping you find the best running shoe for your personal needs. Shop our complete selection of stability running shoes and more in one of our local stores or online today!
