Best Running Shoes for IT Band Syndrome – Reviews w/Guides

Sometimes, running and exercising can be so painful and it’s not an excuse. People who are suffering from Iliotibial Band syndrome. I can understand the pain as sometimes, the pain keeps me from using my knees.

However, recent medical journals say that muscle and joint injuries on the legs can be reduced by making the habit of using the right type of supportive shoes. So, you can say that the best running shoes for IT Band syndrome not only give you relief from pain but also let you run freely.

Now, why not show some of the best shoes that can be used for running despite having lateral knee injuries? Below, 10 shoe models make running an easy job without making legs more painful.

1. Brooks Ghost 13 Running Shoe

If you are in search of the best shoes for IT band syndrome, Brooks Ghost 13 can be the first choice. We know that Brooks is one of the most promising manufacturers that provide quality shoes every time.

In their latest edition, there are some amazing features improved from the older series that are great for IT band syndrome pain. These shoes are improved in zero distraction features comforting runners with soft and smooth transitions.

These running shoes are built with BioMoGo DNA along with DNA LOFT cushioning, meaning they provide super-soft cushioning that leaves no stress or shock while running. Despite double material cushioning, these shoes feel so light. Sometimes it feels like running over a very soft mattress.

The shoes feature with Segmented Crash Pad that works best as a shock absorber. It doesn’t matter how you land, there would be no trouble with your feet after landing. We know the pain you suffer from ITBS. Now, say goodbye to all that pain with the Brooks Ghost 13 Running Shoes

2. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 23 Running Shoes

Another option for IT band syndrome is ASICS Gel-Nimbus 23 Running Shoes. The pair is one of the most popular shoe models for ultimate comfort as if they are only designed for IT band patients.

The Nimbus-23 running shoes are created with FLYTEFOAM technology. It is for lightweight cushioning, creating a comfortable and lightweight environment while running. The feature also helps to speed up runners in need.

The engineered mesh design is absolutely perfect for an all-day workload or practice. The breathability is right on point. With these shoes, you can spend all day at work and your feet would feel like they were napping. So, we had to admit the comfort is 100% sure.

These running shoes feature Gel Cushioning and that’s what makes these shoes more special than ever. It provides excellent shock absorption. I find them perfect for flat-footed people, the shoes would surely help them exercise or run without any experience of pain.

3. New Balance 1080 V11 Running Shoe

Proper running shoes for its athletes are more necessary than any other thing in this world. New Balance has been creating ergonomic shoes for different types of pain for over a decade. These V11 Running Shoes are one of the best running shoes for lower back injuries and I highly recommend this one.

For long-distance runners, these shoes are a blessing. They feature ultra-heel technology that ensures the back of your feet has enough support. Because of the supportive feet, after 10 miles of running or a whole day working, there is no extra pain felt in the feet.

Additionally, its underfoot fresh foam gives ultimate comfort while you are on your practice or workload. If you are extremely flat-footed, you would know all these pains causing in your hip bones and legs. Despite your busy schedule, you can not feel that more stress with these shoes and I’m ensuring it from my experience.

Overall, with supportive feet, great cushioning, lightweight, and classy design New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 V11 Running Shoes are one of the best in the market.

4. Saucony Cohesion 13 Running Shoe

Saucony Cohesion 13 Running Shoes are pretty good quality running shoes on an affordable budget. We have been working on running shoes for IT band syndrome for a while and Saucony surprised us in a few ways.

The running shoes are built with premium quality materials that provide ultimate comfort for ITBS patients. For those who are planning to start their career as an athlete, these are good choices.

However, they have some amazing features like Grid technology, VersaFoam cushioning, and a durable rubber outsole. All these features make these running shoes durable enough. These shoes are comfortable as well as grippy, which makes the runners win the race.

The supportive rubber outsole is for making the shoes capable of heavy-duty usage. The best part, despite being budget-friendly, the shoes are waterproof. But the point to be noted is that if you are a long-distance runner, these shoes are not for you.

5. Soulsfeng Running Shoes

If you are searching for stylish running shoes for IT band syndrome, nothing beats Soulsfeng Running Shoes. They come in a variety of colors and styles and you can pick any of them matching your wardrobe.

Apart from being stylish, these shoes are lightweight, super comfortable, and stable. The sloped technology midsole makes the shoes lightweight. This solo pad technology is for reducing foot pressure mainly. However, for IT Band Syndrome patients, these shoes are suitable.

There is a size chart given for everyone to match perfectly. There is no chance you pick up the wrong size or inappropriate fit. The upper portion is designed with unique Flyknit mesh construction that ensures the highest breathability. So, goodbye to sweaty and slippery feet.

Overall, Soulsfeng Running Shoes meet all the needs that an athlete with ITBS would want, even more than that. I highly recommend them and there is no way you would regret it.

6. Merrell Barefoot Road Glove 2 Running Shoe

Here is pair of Merrell Barefoot Road Glove 2 Running Shoes that are both stylish and comfortable. The shoes have some amazing features that make them perfect for patients with injury histories.

The new Barefoot Road Glove 2 Running Shoes are made with durable construction. Therefore, they are suitable for long-distance mileage and whole day workload. The solid build makes the shoes popular among everyone.

The best part of these shoes that I like is that I can wear them casually and my feet are never stressed. The air mesh construction ensures breathability and so keeps your feet just stable.

The midsole of these shoes is upgraded giving the ultimate arch support. So, no matter how you land or jump, you won’t feel the stress in your feet anyway. Overall, these shoes are created to make your day-to-day exercise life easier and stress-free.

7. Joomra Minimalist Trail Running Barefoot Shoes

This model is comfortable and leaves no stress. With reasonable prices, you would find these shoes very soothing.

The rubber outsole construction of these shoes provides optimum balance. The shoes become durable and can be used for a long time. Lots of people are using the model for years and still, the product is providing the same service.

Another amazing feature of these shoes is the reflective strip on the heel counter. It seems too cool to me cause whenever you are exercising or working at night, they look super nice. This feature is mainly added for safety issues.

Also, its thicker topline wrapped around the feet makes the shoes really comfortable. Overall, these shoes provide all the facilities with a minimal design.

8. WHITIN Minimalist Trail Runner

WHITIN Minimalist Trail Runner Shoes are one of the best running shoes for band issues. These shoes are created with a wide toe box feature that allows you to rest your toes with perfect relaxation, also there should be no hassle of spreading your toes.

The manufacturer has created the shoes with cruelty-free or animal-free products that are environmentally friendly. The shoes are waterproof, so you can exercise with no weather issues.

The shoes are great for gripping. So, you can enjoy a slip-free experience all day long. The insole of these shoes is removable. You can wash them very easily. If you want a barefoot feeling, you can remove them and enjoy the barefoot feeling.

9. ALTRA Torin 4 Running Shoe

After buying a new pair of shoes, many complain about not having a perfect fit. Well, this kind of situation won’t appear when you buy Torin 4 made by ALTRA. Torin 4 shoes are quite famous for providing users with very responsive midsoles. People who are suffering from older pain would surely like this model because of having enough support from the construction.

The midsoles and toe boxes are wider than common sizes. For this, your toes can relax and spread out anytime to have a bit of extra stability. Furthermore, you can escalate your speed without pushing yourself too much because of the balanced traction.

Ultimately, these shoes are great for doing regular workouts. They can grab your feet without compressing the natural posture. And they won’t be a burden to your legs as they are light enough.

So, you can say the Torin 4 running shoes are a perfect pair to wear for people of any age. They’d feel like a pair of other socks worn over the feet.

10. ASICS Gel-Contend 7 Running Shoe

Last but not least, here’s another cool stuff from ASICS. Gel Contend 7 running shoes are quite awesome in giving full flexibility to runners. These are some of the best IT band syndrome shoes you can find at a very reasonable price.

The price might be less than most of the models reviewed above. But the build is not cheap at all. The durable, yet comfortable construction can last for years to help you in running on different types of tracks. Along with that, you don’t have to worry about pronation issues at all when your footwear is Gel contend 7.

There are combos of gel foam and memory foam inside the insoles. The mixture of the foams makes the model more comfortable and adaptable to your feet’ posture. So, you can be assured that the construction can soak away extra stress from your legs.

The whole construction along with the mesh uppers are pretty handy in keeping your feet comfortable for hours. So, if you’re thinking of what to buy when you don’t have enough money in your pocket, try these out.

Buying Guide: Things to Consider for Buying the Best Shoes for IT Band Syndrome

ITBS mainly damages the natural movements of the hips, knees, and lower abdominal muscles. So, picking the best shoes for ITBS is pretty critical. You need to consider a structure and whether it’d ease the soreness of the upper legs or not. Here are some key factors to keep in mind when someone’s looking for shoes to get relief from IT band syndrome.

Fitting

People who have stiffer muscles on the knees and hips should buy something that’s perfectly fit or a bit tight. Because loose and roomy shoe housings can’t keep the feet stable in place. It might cause a sprain or imbalance very often. Thus, avoiding loose shoes is the priority.

Stability

Of course, you need to buy a pair that keeps your legs stable. When joints are stiff and you find it hard to move freely, you can’t rely on very soft or bouncy shoes. Footwears that keep the body posture stable at a position and respond to pressure well are the right choices to run without feeling any pain.

Cushioning

Medium cushioning is enough in this case. As you need to find shoes featuring an extra bit of stability, you can’t expect the options to be fully cushioned. Nonetheless, completely cushioned shoes aren’t good for stiff muscles.

Heel Drop

High heel drops put stress on weaker lower backs. That’s why you must consider heel-toe drops less than 6 mm while buying a running shoe pair.

What are the best running shoes available for ITBS?

Brooks Ghost 13 running shoes are the best till now to exercise and run without feeling any pain in the lower back or knees. But there are some other top models like ASICS Gel Nimbus 23 or Saucony Cohesion 13 to help you reduce the ITBS pain while flexibly moving your body.
Can running barefoot help ease IT band syndrome?

Runners or regular persons with ITBS might benefit from walking or running barefoot or in running shoes that feel like barefoot than running in thickly cushioned shoes. As running barefoot stabilizes the knee, running barefoot can be beneficial for outer knee pain management.

If you are suffering from band syndrome, it is important to consult a doctor before making any major changes to your running routine. However, by following these tips and choosing the right running shoes, you may be able to start feeling better and running pain-free in no time.

Final Thoughts

Although Brooks Ghost 13 is the best running shoe model as per my research, you can have your own choice from today’s list. You can also pick one by yourself by following our buying guide.

Deciding on your own from the top picks might take some time, but it’d be better as you are the only one who knows which footwear can be the most comfortable option. So, best of luck in your search.