Are New Balance Shoes Good for Achilles Tendonitis?
Posted by VDB Shoe Pros on
Yes, New Balance shoes are good for Achilles tendonitis because they are designed with advanced cushioning, stability, and heel support technologies that reduce strain on the tendon. Achilles tendonitis is a painful condition caused by inflammation of the tendon that connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. It’s often triggered by overuse, improper footwear, or poor biomechanics, and it can make walking, running, or even standing for long periods uncomfortable. Choosing the right shoes is a critical part of treatment and prevention, and New Balance has earned a reputation as one of the most supportive and reliable brands for people managing this condition.
At Van Dyke & Bacon, we frequently recommend New Balance to customers struggling with Achilles tendonitis. The brand consistently delivers models that combine cushioning, stability, and versatile fit options, helping to ease pain and promote healthy movement. Below, we’ll explore three top-performing New Balance shoes that stand out as excellent options for Achilles tendonitis: the 880v15, the Fresh Foam X More v6, and the 1080v12.
New Balance 880v15
The New Balance 880v15 is one of the most versatile shoes in the New Balance lineup, making it a standout choice for people with Achilles tendonitis. This model strikes the perfect balance between plush cushioning and supportive structure, which is essential for relieving tendon pain while still maintaining stability.
At the heart of the 880v15 is Fresh Foam X midsole technology, a soft yet responsive foam that absorbs impact and helps reduce pressure on the heel and Achilles tendon. Each step feels smoother and less jarring, which is critical for minimizing irritation and giving the tendon time to recover. The dual-layer midsole further enhances this effect by combining shock absorption with a firm foundation for proper foot alignment.
The engineered mesh upper is designed to move with your foot, adapting to its natural shape while holding the heel securely in place. For those with Achilles tendonitis, heel slippage or excessive movement can worsen symptoms, so this snug but flexible fit is a major benefit. The stable heel counter adds another layer of protection by keeping the heel aligned and preventing overextension of the tendon during activity.
Another advantage of the 880v15 is its availability in multiple widths. Achilles tendonitis often requires custom orthotics or specific sizing adjustments, and the 880v15 accommodates a variety of foot shapes without compromising comfort. Whether you’re easing back into exercise after an Achilles injury or looking for an everyday shoe with superior cushioning, the 880v15 provides reliable, long-lasting relief.
New Balance Fresh Foam X More v6
For individuals who need maximum cushioning, the Fresh Foam X More v6 is an excellent option. Achilles tendonitis often flares up with repetitive impact, so a shoe that provides an extra-plush ride can make all the difference. The More v6 is built with the thickest Fresh Foam X midsole in the New Balance lineup, delivering unmatched softness underfoot while still offering a stable platform for healthy movement.
What makes this shoe especially effective for Achilles tendonitis is its ability to reduce the repetitive strain caused by walking or running on hard surfaces. The thick midsole works like a shock absorber, minimizing stress on the heel and tendon with every stride. Despite its high level of cushioning, the More v6 doesn’t feel unstable. The wide base of the shoe provides inherent stability, preventing wobbling or overpronation that can place additional stress on the Achilles.
The upper of the More v6 is crafted from engineered mesh for breathability and flexibility, ensuring that the shoe adapts comfortably to your foot shape. The design also incorporates a secure heel fit, which is particularly important for individuals dealing with tendon irritation. By preventing heel slippage and maintaining alignment, the shoe helps promote smoother gait mechanics and less strain on the tendon.
The Fresh Foam X More v6 is ideal for anyone looking for a shoe that prioritizes comfort above all else. It’s a great choice for daily walking, low-impact workouts, or long days on your feet when Achilles tendonitis might otherwise limit your activity.
New Balance 1080v12
Another highly recommended option for Achilles tendonitis is the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12. Known as one of New Balance’s most cushioned and versatile running shoes, the 1080v12 combines plush comfort with thoughtful design features that support tendon health.
The midsole is built with Fresh Foam X technology, offering responsive cushioning that reduces impact without feeling overly soft. This balance is especially important for Achilles tendonitis, as it allows for shock absorption while still maintaining the firmness needed for proper foot alignment. The rocker-style geometry of the 1080v12 also contributes to a smoother transition from heel to toe, reducing the amount of strain placed on the Achilles during push-off.
The upper of the 1080v12 features Hypoknit construction, which strategically stretches and supports different parts of the foot. This ensures the shoe adapts to swelling or pressure points that often accompany chronic tendon pain. The bootie-style construction hugs the foot for a secure fit, preventing unwanted movement that could aggravate the tendon.
Another highlight of the 1080v12 is its versatility. While it’s engineered as a performance running shoe, its comfort features make it suitable for everyday wear. For individuals with Achilles tendonitis, this means you can rely on the shoe for both exercise and daily activities without sacrificing relief or support.
Why New Balance Shoes Are Good for Achilles Tendonitis
New Balance shoes are especially well-suited for Achilles tendonitis because they combine advanced cushioning technologies with supportive features that protect the heel and tendon. The brand prioritizes biomechanical alignment, offering stable heel counters, wide base platforms, and multiple width options that accommodate orthotics. For those recovering from or managing Achilles tendonitis, these features can significantly reduce pain, improve gait mechanics, and prevent flare-ups.
Models like the 880v15, Fresh Foam X More v6, and 1080v12 highlight the best of what New Balance has to offer: cushioning to absorb shock, structure to maintain alignment, and fit options to meet individual needs. Together, these qualities make New Balance one of the most trusted brands for people seeking relief from Achilles tendonitis.
Find Your Fit at Van Dyke & Bacon
When managing Achilles tendonitis, choosing the right footwear can be one of the most effective steps you take toward pain relief and recovery. At Van Dyke & Bacon, we understand that every foot is unique, and our team is dedicated to helping you find the perfect fit. Whether you need the balanced cushioning of the 880v15, the maximum softness of the Fresh Foam X More v6, or the versatile support of the 1080v12, we’ll guide you toward the right option for your lifestyle and needs. To check out more shoes that are good for Achilles tendonitis click here!
Visit one of our locations or shop online today to explore our full collection of New Balance shoes. With the right pair, you can ease tendon pain, move more comfortably, and get back to enjoying the activities you love.
