The Best Running Shoes for Underpronation 2024

Getting the right shoe for your gait is one of the most important things to get right as runner, whether you’re a neutral runner, an overpronator or (less commonly) an underpronator.

In truth, only a very small percentage of people suffer from underpronation - research suggests around 10-15%, with most runners overpronating.

So, what type of shoe is best for a runner who underpronates?

First off, it’s important to understand how underpronation (or supination) differs from normal, biomechanically efficient pronation. When the foot pronates normally, the arch flattens and the foot rolls inwards – the body’s natural way of absorbing shock. Underpronators tend to have high rigid arches, meaning that the arch fails to flatten and the gait lacks inwards roll, placing additional stress on the outer edge of the foot. For that reason, runners who underpronate are best to opt for neutral, high cushioned models that both allow the foot to pronate more easily and help compensate for the foot’s lack of natural shock absorption.

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*Please note: The following shoes are not listed in rank order*

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Here are our top-of-the-range recommendations for underpronators and neutral runners:

ASICS Gel Nimbus 27

The new ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 is specifically designed to provide maximum comfort and cushioning to help you feel like you're landing on clouds.

Renowned for being the most comfortable shoe in the ASICS range, this versatile companion is a firm favorite among experienced marathoners, casual joggers, and those looking to embark on a fresh fitness journey.

The GEL-NIMBUS™ 27 also has a 27% lower carbon footprint than the industry average with a total of 10.6kgCO₂e/pair.

Weight: M 305g | W 265g

Drop: 8mm

Stack height: Heel 43.5mm Forefoot 35.5mm

Features: Incredible comfort and cushioning, Lightweight FF Blast Plus Eco cushioning combines with PureGEL technology for lightweight impact absorption and a responsive energy return.

Review: Check out our ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27 shoe review here

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Brooks Glycerin 22

If you're looking for supreme softness and ultimate comfort, the neutral Brooks Glycerin 22 running shoe provides an ultra plush ride thanks to even more soft, nitrogen-infused DNA Tuned cushioning than before, plus a new Double Jacquard Warp Knit upper that delivers structure and breathability.

Weight: M g | W g

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New Balance 1080v14

If New Balance were to only make one shoe, it would be the Fresh Foam X 1080. With a unique combination of reliable comfort and high-performance properties, the shoes provide you with versatility to accompany you from every day to race day running. The shoes also have a rocker profile for a smoother, natural feeling transition.

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Review: Check out our New Balance 1080v14 shoe review here

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Saucony Triumph 22

Meet the Triumph 22. Unlimited comfort. Limitless movement.

Saucony brings premium comfort - but the pace is yours to create. Featuring an upgraded engineered mesh upper and PWRRUN PB cushioning for even more comfort as you build the best version of yourself.

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Mizuno Wave Sky 8

Offering a higher level of "floating run experience" than their predecessors, the Wave Sky 7 feature Mizuno ENERZY NXT and ENERZY foam for incredible cushioning and energy return, Mizuno Wave technology for great stability, and smooth stretch woven upper material for a soft and smooth fit.ㅤ

Weight: M g | W g

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Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit 3

The Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit 3 sports a slab of thick ZoomX cushioning to help you stay on your feet today, tomorrow and beyond. It's super springy and bouncy, so that you can propel down your preferred path and come back for your next run feeling ready and reinvigorated.

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Here are our mid-range recommendations for underpronators:

If your budget doesn’t stretch to £150+ then try some of the following options which are still more than suitable for marathon distance training.

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ASICS GEL-CUMULUS 26

Experience a softer feel underfoot with the ASICS GEL-CUMULUS 26. It's a neutral everyday style of shoes and is a versatile choice for various running workouts and distances.

Featuring FF BLAST PLUS cushioning and PureGEL technology in the midsole, this shoe is designed to create softer landings and a more energised toe-off during training.

Weight: M g | W g

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Brooks Ghost 16

The Brooks Ghost 16 is one of Brooks' most-loved running shoes. With a soft feel, smooth ride, and trusted fit, the Ghost 16 delivers the comfort and performance runners want.

This latest version features an updated midsole design with nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 for a incredibly soft and springy cushioning.

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Weight: M g | W g

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New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v14

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v13 was built to provide consistent performance for the neutral runner.

New Balance designed the 860 to keep up with the demands placed on shoes by the dedication of the stability-minded everyday runner. The latest entry in the series, the Fresh Foam X 860v14, augments the pinnacle cushioning experience of Fresh Foam X with a supportive medial post to provide essential stability. Built for reliability over the long haul and sustained comfort over all distances, the 860 is a true go-to shoe.

Weight: M g | W g

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HOKA Bondi 8

One of the hardest working shoes in the HOKA lineup, the HOKA Bondi 8 takes a bold step forward this season. Reworked using soft, lighter foam, and a brand-new extended heel geometry. The rear crash pad takes on a billowed effect to afford an incredibly soft and balanced ride from heel-strike to forefoot transition. The perfect blend of soft and bouncy, the Bondi 8 is an invitation for runners of all levels to take a joyride.

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Mizuno Wave Rider 27

The legendary Wave Rider just keeps on Riding; Introducing the new Mizuno Wave Rider 27. Now 5g lighter than its predecessor, it also features an extra 2mm of cushioning in the midsole for even softer landings. While maintaining the comfortable characteristics of the Wave Rider 26, 27 has a revamped heel structure to provide a more secure fit, combined with a luxurious, seamless upper that gently wraps around the entire foot. Available in a range of different colours, including the option of a wider fit, the Mizuno Wave Rider 27 is a shoe for everyone, for every run.

Price: RRP £139.99

Weight: 285g

Drop: 12mm

Stack height: Heel: 38.5mm / Forefoot: 26.5mm

Features: Wave Technology and Pebax Rnew Wave Plate for dynamic stability and a responsive ride, Dynamotion Fit provides a fit that moves the way you do and SmoothRide which promotes a smooth, natural stride.

SHOP ALL MIZUNO WAVE RIDER 27 RUNNING SHOES NOW

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Saucony Ride 16

The redesigned Saucony Ride 16 delivers a comfort-first sensation that takes your run to new heights. Built using softer cushioning and a pillowy sockliner, it’s got more foam, less weight, and everything you need to get after it. With higher sidewalls, you sit into the shoe instead of on top of it, creating an incredible underfoot sensation.

Price: RRP 134.99

Weight: 250g

Drop: 8mm

Stack height: Heel: 35mm / Forefoot: 27mm

Features: PWRRUN but with 18% more cushioning in the midsole, a new ultra-lightweight breathable mesh construction and improved FormFit Technology which is a dynamic fit system that adapts to your individual gait.

SHOP ALL SAUCONY RIDE 16 RUNNING SHOES NOW

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adidas Supernova Rise

Like running through the cosmos!

The adidas Supernova Rise running shoe features Dreamstrike+ that's a 20% biobased midsole compound and gives you elevated cushion while delivering fast forward energy return. Bottom-loaded support rods provide more stability and durability and a light, airy mesh brings superior breathability. Perfect for everyday running, the Supernova Rise will help you reach your goals faster.

Price: RRP £129.99

Weight: 278g

Drop: 10mm

Features: Dreamstrike+ Cushioning provides more energy return and longer-lasting performance, Bottom-Loaded Support Rods stabilise every stride for ultimate efficiency and an elevated heel for amazing step-in comfort provides superior shock absorption on landings.

COMING SOON TO SPORTSSHOES.COM!

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