7 Best Tennis Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis in 2022

Achilles tendonitis is a common ailment that affects athletes, office workers, and, in some cases, just everyday people. While there are many ways to treat the pain and swelling, recovery isn’t easy for most because of the severity of their condition.

If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis, the last thing you want to do is run around shopping for new shoes midway through your recovery. Don’t worry; this article will save you trouble and help you find the best tennis shoes for Achilles tendonitis.

Let’s start with the three best shoes for your ailing Achilles tendon.

Severe tendonitis of the Achilles can be a recipe for misery. To relieve your pain, your doctor will likely suggest a treatment of rest and may even advise you not to put pressure on your injured foot. If this is the case, your physician might prescribe a medical boot for Achilles tendonitis to support and accelerate your recovery—which is where this blog comes in.

Besides the top three listed above, I will unveil four other best tennis shoes for Achilles tendonitis that will walk you through your healing process step by step. That’s right; they’ll be your foot friends, and after this ugly phase has passed, you don’t have to discard them. Now that the pep talk is behind us, let’s get down to business.

7 Best Tennis for Achilles Tendonitis in 2022

Adidas NEO Cloudfoam VS City Casual Sneakers

The Adidas NEO Cloudfoam Sneaker (check out the men’s version here) features synthetic materials that make up the entire upper area of the shoe, with an air mesh lining to keep your feet ventilated while wearing them. The synthetic overlays increase the shoe’s aesthetic quality while also giving you a secure fit.

Women’s Adidas Neo Cloudfoam
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Amazon vs. DSW vs. Zappos

If you’re in the market for a new pair of low-top sneakers, you should definitely consider Adidas’ Cloudfoam technology shoes. The sock liner and midsole are designed to comfortably cradle your feet, just like wearing a comfortable pair of socks.

adidas NEO Men's Cloudfoam Flow Shoes,Grey/Dark Solid Grey,8.5 M US

Men’s Adidas Neo Cloudfoam

These shoes aren’t ideal for wet environments, so you shouldn’t wear them in the rain or anywhere else that might get them wet. The sizing runs true to size, so there’s no need to return them if you fear they don’t fit well.

Asics Gel-Nimbus Running Shoes

The Asics Gel-Nimbus 19s have an advanced cushioning system in the heels and forefeet that makes them extremely comfortable while you’re running, walking, or exercising. The shoes are made with FLYTEFOAM technology, which allows them to conform to your foot’s motions.

ASICS Women's Gel-Nimbus 19 Running Shoe, Carbon/White/Flash Coral, 6 M US

Women’s Asics Gel-Nimbus 19

When it comes to comfort and stability, this shoe will match your stride for stride. This shoe’s not just for sprinters; it’s also a good option for people with a neutral gait. The shoe’s soft, supple upper and flexible midsole provides plenty of cushioning, while the minimal drop from heel to toe means that you’ll feel more like you’re running on the clouds than on concrete.

The Asics Gel-Nimbus 19, with its rubber sole, synthetic upper, and lightweight design, will surprise you with its effectiveness for running or walking on any surface.

New Balance M1540 V3 Running Shoes

New Balance M1540 V3 is more than just a running shoe; it’s a veritable wonderland for your feet. The padded mesh tongue is made of breathable materials to prevent excess sweating and keep your foot cool even on the hottest summer days. The roll bar support technology in the shoe’s collar keeps your ankle from twisting or getting injured while running, which can be especially helpful if you have a pre-existing foot condition like Achilles tendonitis.

New Balance Women's 1540 V3 Running Shoe, Gunmetal/Dragonfly, 9

Women’s 1540 V3 Running Shoe

Equipped with dual-density foam, the shoe’s collar cushions your foot like a newborn, providing incredible comfort. Also, the rubber outsole grips any surface perfectly, no matter how wet or uneven, so you can run without worrying about slipping and falling.

If you wear orthotics, you can replace the polyurethane insert in the New Balance M1540V2 with an insert of a different arch height and shape.

Puma Cell Riaze Cross Training Shoes

If you demand the best from yourself, you should demand the best from your athletic training shoes. Puma Cell Riaze Trainers are specifically made to suit the needs of those who want to make training or running a part of their daily exercise routine.

PUMA womens Riaze Prowl Running Shoe, Puma Black-ignite Pink-aquamarine, 8.5 US

Women’s Puma Riaze Cross Trainers

These shoes feature collars and padded tongues, keeping your feet comfortably secure as you walk, run, or work out. They also have rubberized soles for excellent traction on pavements and trails.

Though these shoes are perfect for professional runners, they’re also great for everyday wear. The cushioned tongue and collar keep your feet comfortable during your workout, while the midsole cushioning lets you walk comfortably all day long. Whether grocery shopping or hitting the streets for a jog, these shoes will get you where you need to go.

If you want to know why Puma shoes are so durable, ask about their Puma Cell Riaze outsole’s EverTrack high-abrasion technology. It practically strengthens their outsoles to withstand scuffs and scratches that arise from continuous use.

It seems like that’s not all, though. There’s a bubble technology applied in the midsoles, which, as its name implies, makes the shoes super comfortable to wear. And if you like looking good while also getting the job done, you’ll appreciate that this shoe looks great whether you’re wearing it for working out or just hanging out with friends.

Skechers Sport Shape-Ups XT All Day Comfort Sneakers

Skechers Shape-Ups XT All Day Comfort Sneaker is a great choice for people with Achilles tendonitis because of its rocker bottom sole, which provides enough arch support. This type of sole is also beneficial for people with bunions, as it cushions the bunion and reduces the sufferer’s pain throughout the day.

Skechers Sport Men's Shape Ups XT All Day Comfort Oxford,Black/Charcoal,7 M US

Skechers Sport Shape-Ups XT All Day Comfort Sneakers

Unlike typical dress shoes, the sleek, dark colors of Skechers blend effortlessly into a professional setting and still look sharp on a Friday night.

The Skechers Shape-Ups XT collection is all about improving your lifestyle. Through its revolutionary technology, it helps ease your hurting Achilles tendon while allowing you to walk, stand, and run in a healthy position. Most shoes in this range have memory foam insoles which gradually get comfortable with continued use.

Asics Gel-Resolution Tennis Shoes

What can you do if your toes are hurting while playing tennis? Wear new-generation tennis shoes like the Asics Gel-Resolution 6. They have toe bumpers that shield your toes from mishaps as you glide freely on the court.

ASICS Men's Gel-Resolution 8 Tokyo Tennis Shoes, 10.5, Sunrise RED/Eclipse Black

Women’s Asics Gel-Resolution-6

A lightweight experience awaits you with Asics. Experience a soft and shock-absorbing midsole that’s designed to cushion the impact of contact between your sole and the ground every time you take a step. The low-cut design provides increased mobility and added comfort.

The Asics Gel-Resolution 6 Tennis shoe comes in several colors, so you can show your style on and off the court.

With a comfortable upper and lightweight outsole, this shoe is suitable for numerous tennis-related activities. Its snug fit makes it easy to pivot and turn on the court, allowing you to move at the speed of light.

DiaResc Lace-Up Orthotic Comfort Shoes

These DiaResc Lace-up shoes are specially designed to accommodate an orthotic, providing extra depth. The orthotics can be removed when not needed and replaced with another brand of shoe insole, providing comfort and relief for those who suffer from poor blood circulation and foot ulcers.

DiaResc Men's Perforated Design Diabetic Shoes Orthotic Comfort Shoes Pain Releif (12.5M) Black

DiaResc Lace-Up

In addition to relieving Achilles tendonitis, these shoes may help with plantar fasciitis, bunions, heel aches, and pain in the ball of your foot.

For those who wear dress pants or casual outfits to work and need plain-toe shoes for formal occasions like weddings, Diaresc Orthotic Shoes are a good match. These shoes are also ideal for running errands or other occasions where you are on your feet for extended periods. But they aren’t designed for sporty activities, such as running or exercising.

What Are Common Tennis Injuries?

Tennis puts a lot of tension on your feet, so much that when you’re playing, it’s like your feet and ankles are constantly rotating. Every time you change direction or start to accelerate, your foot is prone to be pushed into the front of your shoe.

Tennis injuries can range from mild to debilitating. But like a blister on your foot or a pulled hamstring, they’re all bad news if they end up keeping you off the court or keep you from playing your best.

In the words of Dr. Kris DiNucci, a Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons: “As playing tennis needs quick, repetitive foot transitions and constant foot pressure, neuromas are prevalent. Those same movements also cause plantar fasciitis on most athletes.”

In addition to neuromas, Achilles tendonitis, and plantar fasciitis, tennis players are also prone to foot-related injuries like:

  • Sesamoiditis
  • Stress Fractures
  • Ankle sprains
  • Posterior tibial tendonitis

If you want to avoid the foot injuries that plague many tennis players, wear the right shoes.

Different Types Of Achilles Tendonitis

Non-insertional Achilles Tendonitis 

The middle section of the Achilles tendon thickens due to tiny tears and disruptions in the tendon. Non-insertional Achilles tendonitis afflicts young, active athletes more than it does older people.

Insertional Achilles Tendonitis

Insertional Achilles tendonitis is most often caused by the lower portion of the tendon being injured. It can happen to anyone, even those who don’t play sports or engage in rigorous physical activities.

How To Treat Achilles Tendonitis

There are many ways to treat it, but the best way is to rest and take some time off from your exercises.

Other than runners, football, basketball, baseball, tennis, and volleyball players are at risk of Achilles tendonitis. Runners may just be more aware of the pain caused by the condition because they can’t keep playing through it as other athletes can. So if you’re going to play these sports—and who wouldn’t?—make sure you get plenty of rest and fully recover between games.

Icing your Achilles for up to 15 minutes several times daily can help lessen the swelling. Wrapping the injured area in athletic tape can also help alleviate the pain. However, ensure not to wrap it too hard; this could restrict blood flow.

Elevating your foot is an effective way to relieve pain and reduce swelling. Blood flows away from your foot when you elevate it, assuaging pressure caused by extra fluid pooled in your Achilles tendon. You might need surgery if simple treatments like these don’t work.

Wearing the proper shoes may help to prevent Achilles tendonitis. Clear out your closet of old, ill-fitting shoes. If your shoes are uncomfortable or seem unstable, they could exacerbate problems with your Achilles tendon.

Important Features to Consider When Buying the Best Tennis Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis

When shopping for new tennis shoes, don’t just walk into a store and buy the first pair you see. Like everything else in life, you need to be discerning. Here are six things to consider when buying new tennis shoes, according to World Tennis Magazine:

  • Lateral Support – To avoid tennis injuries, you’ll want to be sure your shoes provide plenty of lateral support—after all, you’ll be moving around pretty rapidly on the court.

Pro tip: Special lacing systems improve lateral support, so choose tennis shoes that have this feature.

  • Cushioning – It’s important to go for tennis shoes that have an optimum balance of support and softness. Extra soft shoes aren’t supportive enough, while extra firm ones aren’t comfortable enough.
  • Court – Are you playing a match on grass, clay, or hard courts? You’d better be prepared for the surface you’re about to play on, which means finding the right tennis shoe for your court of choice.
  • Sole Type – Check the pattern on the rear of your tennis shoes. Are they herringbone, studded, or smooth? If you’re playing on hard courts, get herringbone shoes. If you’re playing on glass courts, go with studded. And if you’re playing indoors, smooth will do the job.
  • Shoe Size – Essentially, you want to find a pair of shoes that is neither too heavy nor too small. If the former, you’ll get blisters; if the latter, your toes will be squished against the front of the shoes.
  • Comfort – Comfort is key to staying on the court and playing as many sets as you desire.

Additionally, make sure the shoe’s tongue is adequately cushioned and that laces don’t dig into your foot. It’s also vital to wear tennis shoes with adequate arch support. Tennis sneakers are designed with a minimum amount of arch support, and inserting arch-supportive insoles into these sneakers can improve your performance and save you from injuries.

Useful Tips in Picking the Best Tennis Shoes For Achilles Tendonitis

  • According to expert sources at Healthline, wearing heeled shoes can help take pressure off your Achilles tendon while walking, running, or performing other physical activities.
  • Choose running shoes with extra arch support and cushioning. These provide enhanced shock absorption. Also, look for products that come with gel pad inserts if you want an added dose of comfort.
  • If you wear shoes to work out, consider getting the mesh-lined ones—they’ll breathe better, keeping your feet ventilated and reducing perspiration.
  • If your Achilles tendon hurts, slip into a pair of form-fitting shoes with well-padded tongues and rubber soles.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of compression socks for Achilles tendonitis?

Ankle compression socks relieve pain and inflammation in your legs, improve blood circulation, and reduce the pain associated with Achilles tendonitis.

My Achilles tendonitis is not improving; what should I do?

Achilles tendinopathy is most often caused by overuse of the Achilles tendon or repetitive movements during sports, work, or physical activities. It’s prevalent among athletes who have a knack for sports and are often engaged in intense training that may cause microtears in the tendon. These tears heal more slowly than normal, prolonging the pain.

How to relieve Achilles tendonitis through exercise?

  • Sit in a chair and bring your affected leg forward so that your heel touches the floor.
  • Hold the top of your big toe and stretch it toward your ankle. Pull it away from the floor.
  • Maintain this position for at least 15 to 30 seconds.
  • Repeat 2 to 4 times per session, several times a day.

How to use a massage gun for Achilles tendonitis?

Kitma Nitro Percussion Massage Gun for Athletes - Deep Tissue Muscle Message Guns with 50mm Brushless Motor & 5 Speeds, Neck Back Foot Body Pain Relief, Gift for Men

Kitma Nitro Massage Gun

Best Tennis Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis: Final Thoughts

If you have Achilles tendonitis, finding the right shoe helps you get through the day pain-free and worry-free. Among all the products mentioned in this list, the Adidas Women’s NEO Cloudfoam VS City and the Men’s Adidas NEO Cloudfoam Shoes are our top choices. They offer all the great features we believe will help manage your condition.

Before you hit the court for your next tennis match, make sure you’re wearing a pair of the best shoes for Achilles tendonitis. If they improve comfort, reduce fatigue, lessen leg spasms, and promote better foot alignment, you’ll know they are worth every penny.

Shoe Choices by Activity for Men with Achilles Tendonitis

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