Finding the perfect pair of sneakers is similar to finding a soulmate. You may have to go through a lot of pain and discomfort along the way, but when it's right, you'll know immediately. And while the sneaker market (similar to the online dating pool) has no shortage of options, there's one pair that a podiatrist recommends time and time again as being a match for everyone.
Experts In This Article
The best Asics shoes, at a glance:
The Asics Gel Kayano has come up repeatedly as being the best foot-stabilizing shoe money can buy, and Miguel Cunha, DPM, founder of Gotham Foot Care in New York City, has touted its benefits for walking, running, and every activity in between. It's designed for people who need a bit more stability in their movement (aka people with flat feet, whose feet "overpronate" or roll inward when they run), and has next-gen technology that provides both comfort and support.
"Runners will find this sneaker to have superior comfort that enhances the foot's natural gait from heel strike to toe-off," says Dr. Cunha. "This shoe is designed with rearfoot and forefoot gel technology that provides superior cushioning and shock absorption. This shoe incorporates exceptional durability and lightweight materials with a medial extension from the midsole to the heel for increased motion control. Last but not least, these sneakers include an additional 3 millimeters of midsole height to decrease tension placed on the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon."
Are Asics recommended by podiatrists?
The short answer is yes. "Asics shoes are often recommended by podiatrists because they focus on delivering supportive and well-cushioned footwear suitable for a variety of foot types and running styles," says Asim Qureshi, DPM, a Chicago-based podiatric surgeon at Michigan Avenue Podiatry. Since everyone's foot is different, Dr. Qureshi recommends consulting with a podiatrist for personalized advice on picking the best Asics shoe for you.
