Are you looking for a pair of gravity-defying shoes that can increase your comfort level and the best shoes for lower back pain? In a hurry? Then look no further than the Gravity Defyer G-Defy Shoes.
Choosing the best shoes for lower back pain is more than just a way to avoid foot pain. They help you to maintain a healthy posture and prevent motion-related injuries as well, keeping your muscles, bones, and joints relieved of pain.
When it comes to shoes, there’s a lot more than color, style, and fit to think about. With over 30 million people in the USA alone suffering from lower back pain, choosing footwear that can mitigate the symptoms of such can feel like an investment worth making.
But finding the best shoes for lower back pain isn’t always easy. It’s essential to choose the right shoe for your foot’s type and the activities you’ll be performing. For athletic use, running, or tennis, comfort and support are of utmost importance.
Choose shoes that are best suited for men and women with lower back pain and are great for working out at the gym. The brand of shoes can also contribute to choosing the right shoes that alleviate lower back pain.
In addition to providing superior comfort, many comfortable shoes for lower back pain also have extraordinary features. Shoes with orthopedically designed insoles can help protect your feet from arch pain or even plantar fasciitis.
Also, consider looking for steel-toed footwear that is essential for those in professions that require extra protection for your toes, like construction workers and electricians with lower back pain.
To help you find the best shoes for lower back pain, we’ve outlined a few of our favorite options below. Keep on reading to dive into more details.
Table of Contents
- 1 Best Shoes for Lower Back Pain
- 2 14 Best Shoes for Lower Back Pain Reviewed
- 2.1 Gravity Defyer G-Defy – Best Overall for Men
- 2.2 Gravity Defyer G-Defy – Best Overall for Women
- 2.3 New Balance 990v5 – Runner-Up for Men
- 2.4 Vionic Brisk Almas – Runner-Up for Women
- 2.5 UMYOGO Men’s Blade – Best for Athletic Men
- 2.6 UMYOGO Blade – Best for Athletic Women
- 2.7 Skechers Afterburn – Walking Shoes for Men
- 2.8 Devotion Plus 2 – Walking Shoes for Women
- 2.9 ASICS Gel-Cumulus 20 – Best Running Shoes
- 2.10 Akk Slip-on Sneakers – Best Tennis Shoes
- 2.11 Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 – Best Nike Shoes
- 2.12 Reebok Rb4041 Sublite – Best Work Shoes
- 2.13 Vionic Bowery Chase – Best Orthopedic Shoes
- 2.14 Saucony Zealot Iso 3 – Best Gym Shoes
- 3 Best Shoes for Lower Back Pain Buying Guide
- 4 Conclusion
Best Shoes for Lower Back Pain
| Men | Women | |
| Best Overall | Men’s Defyer G-Defy | Women’s Defyer G-Defy |
| Runner-Up | New Balance 990v5 | Vionic Brisk Almas |
| Best for Athletes | UMYOGO Men’s Blade | UMYOGO Women’s Blade |
| Best Walking Shoes | Skechers Afterburn | Ryka Devotion Plus 2 |
| Best Running Shoes | Men’s Gel-Cumulus 20 | Women’s Gel-Cumulus 20 |
| Best Tennis Shoes | Akk Men’s Shoes | Akk Women’s Shoes |
| Best Nike | Men’s Pegasus 36 | Women’s Pegasus 36 |
| Best Work Shoes | Rb4041 Sublite | RB045 Sublite |
| Best Orthopedic | Bowery Chase Chukka | Chukka Magnolia Ruth |
| Best Gym Shoes | Men’s Zealot Iso 3 | Women’s Zealot Iso 3 |
14 Best Shoes for Lower Back Pain Reviewed
Aching feet can be debilitating, which is why we at No74 Berlin made it our mission to curate a list of the best shoes for lower back pain you need to try. Armed with expertise and extensive experience in the industry, we have done the necessary legwork so that you don’t have to!
Gravity Defyer G-Defy – Best Overall for Men
While many brands focus on offering comfortable shoes, Gravity Defyer Men’s G-Defy is truly an effective product that could prevent lower back pains. It is the best shoe for lower back pain and its features will prove this.
The shoes’ VeroShock technology in these gravity-defying shoes is its key feature. It alleviates pain from your ankles up to your lower back. Also, the patented walking technology will help you avoid damage to your joints and keep you active with minimal discomfort.
Gdefy’s insoles might be small but big on comfort and security. Designed for men with neuropathy, Gdefy insoles keep you steady by providing high-quality shock absorption and air circulation when you walk.
The extra cushioning on the heel and ball of these shoes helps reduce pressure to the foot and prevent foot deformation that may happen if your shoe doesn’t fit perfectly. These insoles are also replaceable to ensure the highest level of orthopedic support.
G-Defy is perfect for those with diabetes or high blood pressure. Its design supports your feet and makes it easier to walk while preventing lower back pains.
With its replaceable insoles that ensure support, the men’s Gdefy is the best shoe for lower back pain.
Gravity Defyer G-Defy – Best Overall for Women
Gravity Defyer Women’s G-Defy’s energy return is a key component of VersoShock Technology that helps female athletes to recover and excel in their sport by absorbing shock from the ground up.
The Women’s Gdefy boasts a soft and secure interior, with a sleek design that you can wear in all situations. The deep heel cup and balanced arch support help absorb shock, preventing fatigue, blisters, and irritation.
With its unique removable insoles, it also caters to women’s needs for varying levels of support.
Whether you need more room in the toe box or if you’re prone to plantar fasciitis, the Women’s G-Defy has your back. Its deep front rocker sole helps reduce pressure on your foot while its deep heel pocket relieves the pain that comes with plantar fascia.
These shoes are not just great for those women with foot ailments, but most especially for lower back pain reduction as well. Making it the best shoes for lower back pain just like its Men’s G-defy counterpart.
New Balance 990v5 – Runner-Up for Men
New Balance Men’s 990v5 Sneaker addresses foot and lowers back pain by offering maximum support and flexibility while ensuring a light and comfortable footstep. These men’s shoes provide long-lasting wear and unparalleled comfort.
These men’s shoes will give you a mix of comfort and style. The breathable mesh upper keeps your feet cool, while the foam collar feature offers support and comfort.
With cushioning that starts at your heel and extends to your forefoot, this sneaker will keep up with you as you run or jump.
The 990v5 features technology with a flexible forefoot that promotes natural foot movement; a flexible outsole works with the midsole for flexibility in a variety of conditions.
The New Balance 990v5 is a combination of the classic running sneaker with an iconic design, built with high-performance materials that have great support. Perfect for male athletes or men, in general, looking for the best men’s shoes for lower back pain.
Vionic Brisk Almas – Runner-Up for Women
Vionic Women’s Brisk Alma Sneaker is the perfect women’s shoe that offers a range of arch support options, you can customize your fit to ensure maximum comfort and protection from the heel and lower back pain. It is also a great fit for women who suffer from plantar fasciitis.
The mesh from the upper and man-made materials create a breathable shoe that stretches to shape your feet like a glove. The inner lining offers a massage effect that will make running feel like floating on air.
The Vionic Alma is specially designed to provide stability and support for people with mild to moderate foot pain due to plantar fasciitis. The Orthotic insole offers the right amount of support but also remains flexible enough to adjust to your movements throughout the day.
Vionic Women’s Alma is full of excellent features to keep your lower back feeling comfortable all day long. It is absolutely the best women’s shoes for lower back pain.
UMYOGO Men’s Blade – Best for Athletic Men
UMYOGO manufactures high-quality athletic wear like UMYOGO Men’s Athletic Shoes. The prices are reasonable, and products sell fast. The unique, breathable fabric that they use in their shoes helps your feet stay cool and is the best shoe for lower back pain.
Breathable mesh upper with supportive design provides a lightweight feel that gives your feet extra room to breathe. These men’s athletic shoes are perfect for your day-to-day activities, with a sock-like fit and design that encourages natural movement.
UMYOGO’s Men’s athletic shoes feature a slip-on design with shoelaces. This allows for men to get the perfect fit while still being able to slip on and off their shoes quickly. Padding throughout the tongue and collar provides additional comfort.
These shoes are perfect for male athletes looking to reduce lower back pain during and after training. This shoe will allow you to take on the field or courts with confidence and comfort. They are the best athletic shoes for lower back pain for a reason.
UMYOGO Blade – Best for Athletic Women
UMYOGO never compromises on quality, which is why their UMYOGO Women’s Athletic Shoes have high-quality, breathable materials that give you the best athletic shoes for lower back pain. The advanced design of these shoes can let you perform at your best without restrictions.
Umyogo’s high-quality rubber sole provides superior durability when compared to other materials, and it helps the shoes absorb impact from running and jumping. The breathable mesh allows your foot to breathe freely — preventing odor and keeping the shoe’s shape intact.
These shoes have designs that are great for a variety of uses, including jobs that require standing all day. It’s light and breathable, and it can also absorb sweat without feeling wet or compromising its wearability.
UMYOGO sneakers are especially great for athletes. These shoes offer the support that active athletes need to keep their feet comfortable and healthy. Whether on a daily run or in the middle of a game, UMYOGO sneakers are the best athletic shoes for back pain.
Skechers Afterburn – Walking Shoes for Men
A perfectly comfortable walking shoe for your lower back pain is the SKECHERS® Men’s Afterburn. This is a pair of shoes that can give you the support and comfort you need. Its features will help alleviate pain so you can focus on your day.
This stylish shoe has leather and synthetic hybrid upper material, mesh lining, and memory foam padded insole. Constructed to provide support for your feet and lower back, this entry-level shoe is also available in a variety of patterns.
Skechers Afterburn Lace-Up Sneaker also features an elastic lacing system that offers an easy on and off. The ideal amount of comfort padding in place will keep you at ease without weighing you down as well.
SKECHERS® Afterburn is a perfect choice for people with lower back pain, offering an immediate reduction in pain intensity. These shoes are the best walking shoes for lower back pain.
Devotion Plus 2 – Walking Shoes for Women
Ryka’s Devotion Plus 2 is a walking shoe with all the comfort and style that Ryka is popular for.
Featuring a stylish gradient print, this shoe is great for everyday use. These shoes are the best walking shoes for lower back pain and most female walkers prefer them.
This shoe aids in recovery from the daily demands of busy work and walking routine with a cushioned collar and a tongue lined in smooth Lycra, helping to massage and relieve your feet. The lace-up front provides support with every step.
The anatomical insole of this shoe allows your foot to perfectly sit in the shoe, easing pressure on your feet and taking some of the force off of your joints. A great addition for easing women’s lower back pain when walking.
Ryka walking shoes reduce lower back pain while helping you stay active. That is why it’s the best walking shoe for lower back pain, that women will surely love.
ASICS Gel-Cumulus 20 – Best Running Shoes
The ASICS Gel-Cumulus 20 running shoe offers a neutral, low-to-the-ground stride with plenty of cushioning to keep runners comfortable. Like the best running shoes for lower back pain, it also improves gait, making it a great overall investment in your health.
The Asics Gel-Cumulus 20 Running Shoes provide a stable yet forgiving ride with ASICS’ signature Solyte midsole material. The shoes absorb shock on impact and propel you forward at toe-off.
When running, every inch of your foot has to move in perfect harmony — but if any area is not aligned or not functioning properly, you can end up with some serious aches and pains.
The upper material of this shoe has man-made mesh that imitates the look of natural leather, keeping your foot cool and comfortable.
Its ORTHOLITE sock liner feature also adds comfort to the shoe. While the impact guidance system is from the way a runner’s foot naturally hits the ground. Thus, decreases impact by guiding it to the optimal position.
Asics Gel-Cumulus 20 running shoes have FlyteFoam Propel Technology, an exclusive elastomer compound that offers superior bounce and a smoother transition.
The GEL cushioning at the rearfoot and forefoot improves shock attenuation and maintains full ground contact while providing comfort. These features sure make the ASICS Gel-Cumulus 20 the best running shoes for lower back pain.
And I bet you didn’t know this but… the ASICS Gel-Cumulus 20 has a women’s version too!
Akk Slip-on Sneakers – Best Tennis Shoes
Akk Tennis Shoes has a design that gives you the most comfort you’ve ever experienced. Its premium quality, sturdiness, and incredible traction make it the best tennis shoe for lower back pain.
This Akk’s shoes are lightweight, breathable, and have a non-slip sole that’s durable to keep you comfortable during your tennis game. The one-piece knit upper expands with your foot when you play, for extra comfort and less irritation.
Akk Tennis Shoes have a memory foam insole that molds to the shape of your foot. Whether you’re walking or running, these insoles reduce lower back pain and provide long-lasting support and cushioning.
Furthermore, it is not only the best tennis shoes for lower back pain but its moisture-wicking insoles also bring comfort and coolness to your feet when you play. Thanks to these insoles, you don’t need to worry about sweaty, uncomfortable feet.
As it turns out, ASICS has a woman’s tennis shoe model that not only feels like an Akk Tennis Shoe when worn but they have similar features as well.
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 – Best Nike Shoes
As the world’s best-selling shoe, the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 has incomparable comfort and stability. Its heel-to-toe transition provides a natural motion that can reduce lower back pains, making it the best Nike shoe for lower back pain.
The special Flyknit upper feature of these shoes consists of perforations and engineered mesh for targeted breathability around the toe box and lateral forefoot. This ensures that your sweaty feet during a run are in check while you also get a snug fit at higher running speeds.
These shoes’ Zoom Air cushioning in the heel of the shoe provides a springy, responsive ride. And a resilient sock liner molds to the contours of your foot for an individualized fit. Waffle pistons along the outsole help absorb impact and provide multi-surface traction.
The Pegasus 36’s midsole incorporates multiple zones of varying densities that work in tandem to reduce shock on your legs and back, while also allowing you to run faster with less effort. These features make it the best Nike shoes for lower back pain.
Apparently, Nike also makes a shoe model for women with features similar to the ones found in Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36.
Reebok Rb4041 Sublite – Best Work Shoes
Reebok Rb4041 Sublite Work shoe is redefining what it means to have a work shoe with advanced cushioning and stability. It’s the best work shoe for lower back pain and people who want to reduce the risk of pain due to its responsive construction.
Sublite Work shoes use a foam-layer system that reduces overall weight, and the SR tread takes firm hold of any surface. The medial and lateral webbing stop your feet from slipping off the shoes and provide a locked-in fit.
The Sublite Work shoe’s moisture-wicking nylon mesh insole, Footfuel® injection EVA removable cushion footbed, and Sublite EVA cushion midsole provide superior comfort during long days on your feet.
The rubber slip-resistant outsole also hosts a dual resistor to electrically ground you and steel-toed, making it an ideal work shoe for industrial plants or warehouses. It also helps with lower back pains. These shoes are the best work shoes for lower back pain.
And here’s another thing! It turns out that Reebok has made the RB045 model for women very similar to their Rb4041.
Vionic Bowery Chase – Best Orthopedic Shoes
Providing relief from foot pain and injury is the job of Vionic Bowery Chase Chukka Boots. A combination of arch support, heel stabilizers, and lightweight design make these comfortable and the best orthopedic shoes for lower back pain.
The Bowery Chukka Boot from Vionic has black suede and leather construction on the upper, with a soft footbed that cradles your foot for support. The rubber outsole is solid and sturdy, helping you stand your ground wherever you are.
The Vionic Chukka Boot has a podiatrist-designed footbed that promotes stability and extra support for the foot. With its trendsetting design, the Chukka is both style and science. A must-have and the best orthopedic shoes for lower back pain.
And that’s the way! It may seem surprising, but Vionic also makes orthopedic shoes for women. They share some of the same features seen in Bowery Chase Chukka orthopedic shoes.
Saucony Zealot Iso 3 – Best Gym Shoes
Saucony Zealot Iso 3 is a great choice for anyone with lower back pain. Its lightweight, fluid ride minimizes impact and keeps you energized while you’re at the gym.
Zealot Iso 3 is a lightweight gym shoe with a dynamic fit and responsive feel. It features a synthetic overlay for superior durability and an ISOFIT upper for a customized, snug fit and exceptional comfort.
The 3mm Everun feature of this shoe is a breakthrough from Saucony. The top sole is extra bouncy but is still thick enough to offer the protection you need. The updated tri-flex outsole blends flexibility and support and maximizes your gym performance.
The Saucony Zealot Iso 3 shoes are the best gym shoes for lower back pain because of their low-profile design, lightweight material, and cushioning that reduces shock.
As it turns out, Saucony also manufactured a model specifically for women that not only includes several of the same features as those in the Men’s Zealot Iso 3 but comes at a reasonable price, offering more value per dollar spent.
Best Shoes for Lower Back Pain Buying Guide
Good shoes make a big difference for your feet. Not only do they support your arches and align your posture, but they also help improve the strength of your lower body.
Wearing bad shoes can lead to serious back problems. If you suffer from back pain, it’s important to be aware of the shoes you wear, especially if you’re in the habit of standing all day. The wrong pair of shoes can put extra strain on your lower back, which could trigger aches and pains down the line.
It’s important to consider these factors below when looking for the best shoes for lower back pain.
- Arch Support
- Cushioning
- Heel Height
- Design
- Rigidity
- Lightweight
- Grip
- Sizing
Arch Support
One of the best ways to help relieve the pain associated with lower back pain is to wear appropriate shoes with arch support. When it comes to choosing footwear, one of the first things you’ll need to consider is your foot arch type.
Shoes with good arch support are essential for avoiding lower back pain. However, you need to ensure that your shoes fit well and feel comfortable using them on a long-term basis.
Some people have high arches, which means they require shoes that will take their form; for others with flat feet, a supportive insole can help reduce lower back pain.
Cushioning
Shoes with cushioning are an essential part of your workout or everyday footwear. They’ll reduce the impact of each stride, which can help to relieve muscle strain, especially on your lower back.
The insoles under your feet are the part of a sneaker that help make it feel comfortable, but they also have a much more important role than just cushioning your step: they’re designed to absorb some of the impacts as your foot hits the ground.
In general, shock absorption comes from two different types of insole material: EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) and polyurethane foam, with the former being more lightweight than the latter.
You should always pay attention to the amount of cushioning that you need for your specific needs. A soft midsole will be best for people with low arches and those who like shoes that feel very soft underfoot.
While people with high arches who are looking for additional support in the heel should opt for a firmer midsole since this type of cushioning provides more stability and motion control.
You can test the shoe’s cushioning with your thumbnail by pushing into the midsole and feeling for flexibility.
Heel Height
High heels can make you look elegant and feel more confident with a professional wardrobe, but wearing them regularly can cause lower back pain, muscle overuse, and other back issues.
Because your spine is out of its natural alignment when you wear heels for long periods, making it easy to slouch, hunch over, or even lean to the side to offset the lack of balance or stability in your feet.
A lower-heeled shoe might be exactly what you need when suffering from lower back pain.
High heels are alluring, but the steep angle of the heel puts a great deal of stress on the Achilles tendon when worn for long periods. If you still crave heels, wear shoes with a lower heel and make sure that you don’t wear them for more than an hour a day.
Design
The design is just as crucial as all the important features that make up a great shoe for lower back pain.
Flip-flops for instance have a design that is not only bad for your feet but will also cause back pain in the long run. Since flip-flops offer no arch support, they can cause pain in the arches, heels, ankles, knees, and back. It’s okay to wear flip-flops for short walks by the beach or pool.
However, it’s best to avoid them if you’ll be walking long distances.
Rigidity
When choosing the best shoes for your lower back pain, you should also avoid buying shoes that are too rigid. This could stress your feet when you’re walking, making it difficult to breathe.
But buying flimsy shoes as well isn’t a good choice either, these can make your feet tired after just a few hours of use. Look for something in between, a shoe that’s sturdy but still soft enough to give your feet an unrestricted flow of air.
Lightweight
When it comes to finding the ideal pair of shoes for lower back pain, it must offer a lightweight performance that can help not just with your lower back pain but improves your running times.
Shoes that have lightweight mesh upper materials can contribute to your speed, agility, and distance running. Therefore you can perform at your best without worrying about your lower back pain.
Grip
When running, you need a shoe that can hold you on slippery surfaces and give you the traction required to stay upright.
Shoes that come with a robust sole that not only do well on tracks or trails but also give you support and protection during your workout are a must.
You should feel confident while running or walking on slippery surfaces, so you can push farther and be safe while preventing lower back pain.
Sizing
Ill-fitting shoes can cause foot and back pain. It is always advisable to buy shoes after trying them on, especially if you have a high instep or are prone to blisters and lower back pains.
Shoes that are too small or too big can be the cause of lower back pain. When you wear shoes that are too small, your muscles tend to tense up; conversely, if you wear shoes that are too big, they put unnecessary pressure on your feet.
Therefore, you need to make sure your shoe size is correct before buying new shoes for your lower back pain.
Conclusion
I hope that my reviews have helped you find the best shoes for lower back pain. I would like to remind you again: picking the right pair of shoes can improve your life and keep you away from unnecessary back ailments and pain.
I strongly recommend the Gravity Defyer G-Defy shoes as a worthy investment for the best shoes for lower back pain. With its high quality, comfortable design, and stylish look.
It gives you the confidence and relief you need to get through your day. These shoes are also available for both men and women.
The Vionic Brisk Almas, however, is my top pick for women with lower back pain. At a reasonable price, it’s an excellent choice for people who have bunions or plantar fasciitis as well.
The shoe also has built-in arch support that keeps your foot supported and comfortable throughout the day.
There you have it, the top and the best shoes for lower back pain. Comment which one you like most, or share this page with your friends and family.
