Osgood Schlatters Disease or OSD is a common problem in kids of 10-15 years and participate in active sports activities. Just like other injuries need a supporting gear when playing sports, so does OSD. You need to find a good pair of shoes to support the person who’s suffering from pains caused by Osgood Schlatters Disease. We’re here to help you do just that. But first, let’s understand what’s so special about OSD-specific shoes?
Why do you need OSD specific shoes?
This condition is more common in children, as at younger ages they are going through a development stage. So pains in the shin and knees are common. If your child is experiencing the following symptoms though, they may be suffering from Osgood Schlatter’s Disease. So make sure to take them to a doctor for a proper diagnosis.
- Knee pain or leg pain.
- Swelling, tenderness, or increased warmth under the knee and over the shinbone.
- Pain that gets worse with exercise or high-impact activities, such as running.
- Limping after physical activity.
To treat this disease, you’ll need to use knee braces and straps to provide support to the injured leg. OSD shoes will help keep the foot supported and soften the movements, lowering pressure on the injury, letting the patient move freely.
So let’s take a look at some of these shoes. I’ll be listing which specific requirements these shoes will fulfill, as well as their lackings.
1. New Balance 608 V5 Casual Comfort
New Balance 608 V5 was designed keeping athletes in mind. Their heavy workout routine was kept in mind when selecting the shoe materials and its design. So if you know someone with OSD or are going through it yourself, these shoes will be perfect to provide you with the support you need.
The shoes have ABZORB midsoles which absorb any impact through a combination of cushioning and compression resistance. The IMEVA (injection-molded EVA foam) midsole provides firm yet flexible cushioning. Their internal midsole shank adds midfoot structure and support.
The shoes are available in many sizes and colors so you can take your pick from many options. They are 100% leather shoes with a rubber sole and are reasonably light. The insoles are removable so you can wash and dry them easier.
Can they be machine washed?
They don’t need to be machine washed. The shoes are easy enough to clean and you can use water and soap. You can scrub the shoes to get them clean if there’s any dirt on them. Using an old toothbrush will suffice.
There’s no need to wash the shoes frequently though as it will damage the material. The shoe insoles are removable so you can wash and dry them separately.
Are the shoes waterproof?
The shoes are water resistant to some extent. They will get wet if you wear them into a watery puddle but they’ll resist complete sogginess for quite some time. The shoes are also designed to be slip resistant on wet floors. However, if you’re determined to slip, you will slip!
Can these shoes be used by all ages?
Yes, the shoes are made to be used by people of all ages. You just need to find the right fit. The shoes are available in a lot of sizes, starting from the average size 6 and going all the way to 9. There’s even fittings for people with wide feet.
If you’re looking to buy shoes for a child, you’ll need to try out the various sizes before you find the right fit.
2. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 shoes are designed to provide support to runners so they can just focus on running instead of their shoe fit. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance.
It’s great for people with overpronation issues as it provides high energizing cushioning. They provide you with stability and support with their DNA LOFT Crash Pad Cushions and work with BioMoGo DNA to support each of your steps. So for someone with OSD, this shoe is a reliable, supportive option. The guide rails holistic support system is designed to focus on your knees which often hurt if one is suffering from OSD. It is ideal for road running and exercises that require you to remain active on your feet.
The shoes are made with synthetic and mesh material and have rubber soles. All in all, these shoes will help your muscles relax and support you when OSD makes your movements difficult.
There is one flaw in the shoes though. With long use, the front of the shoes may collapse. This may cause you discomfort when walking or running and make noises. To fix this, you need to make sure you’re buying the right sized shoes. You can also fill the front of the shoe with a foam structure to give it support.
Are these shoes fit for heavy exercise?
No, these shoes are specifically for running. If you’re thinking of using these shoes for squats or other exercise, it’s better not to as it may tear the shoes. Use them for running and walking purposes.
The DNA loft cushion keeps your feet free from further injury while the guide rails support system will keep your knees moving without pain.
3. Puma Faas 600
If you’re looking for an affordable, stylish pair of shoes, you may want to go with Puma Faas 600. Puma is a trusted name in the world of shoes and this pair is bright and eye-catching as well as being comfortable.
The shoes have a synthetic sole and foamed upper with air mesh for maximum breathability. The Faas Foam midsole provides resilience which makes the shoes durable. It also has reflective overlays on top so the shoes are visible in low light. It’s quite an interesting feature.
As for how it helps your OSD, the shoes are designed with NeutralCELL cushioning technology to provide proper cushioning support. It makes your movement inside the shoes easier. These shoes are recommended to avoid foot pain as the foam provides structure and support while the eyelet lacing keeps a firm hold on your foot. But as for knee pain, these shoes may not be as effective in treatment. They will, however, help you avoid further injury.
Can these shoes be used for regular wear?
Yes, you can! They’re for regular wear as well as for exercises. The shoes do have a unique look to them though, which may not make them your ideal regular fashion choice. But not to worry as there’s many designs and colors for you to choose from.
4. ASICS Gel-Kayano 28
ASICS Gel-Kayano 28 shoes offer you a large number of options when it comes to shoe sizes and colors. There are as many as 20 different shades you can choose from. But the reason why these shoes are on our recommended list is because they provide the ultimate cushioning for your heel, knees and ankles. When dealing with OSD, you want support on your knees to avoid further pain.
Let’s get a little more into the design of the shoes and its specialties. The mesh used is breathable and provides stability. Its knee support is made possible by the Dynamic DuoMax support system which improves cushioning at foot strike and reduces pronation. The forefoot and rearfoot GEL technology cushioning system relieves shock when walking and allows movement in multiple planes. Overall, the shoes are designed to support your every step and make sure the pressure when walking is shifted evenly.
From the design of the shoe, it’s obvious that these shoes are exactly what someone suffering from OSD needs. They’re a good choice. The shoes may take a little time to break into but if you pick the right size, this shouldn’t be an issue. These shoes can be used for running as well as light exercise.
Are these shoes good for people with flat feet?
Yes, people with flat feet as well as people with high arches can wear these shoes. They are available in multiple sizes for people with wide, as well as narrow feet.
People with narrow feet may sometimes feel that the shoes are too wide for their feet but if you pick the right size that suits you, this should not be an issue.
Are the shoes made up of breathable material?
The shoes are made of synthetic mesh which is breathable and comfortable. The mesh is designed to cushion your feet on each step and to let your feet breathe.
The material is breathable and the rubber soles keep you from slipping.
How much support do the shoes provide?
The shoes are designed with the goal to keep your ankle, knees and heel cushioned when walking. They minimize pain experience due to pronation and other issues while making your days comfortable.
The shoes are meant for running and walking and are lightweight. So you can use them on a daily basis without worry. The only issue you may have with these is that the color combinations may not be up to your taste. But no need to worry as there are many colors to pick from.
5. Saucony Guide 14
If you’re looking for shoes with comfort, Saucony guide 14 may be your best choice. Its users have emphasized heavily on how soft and comfortable these shoes are and said they’ll keep using these models for a long time. The model is available in a variety of colors as well as various sizes.
As for the comfort detail, these shoes are fitted with PWRRUN foam technology which makes the shoes comfortable. When you walk or run, the shoes keep your heel in a fixed position so no extra pressure when walking.
They’re ultra light and prevent overpronation. For someone with OSD, these shoes are the optimum choice. But when walking, the shoes may make slightly squeaky noises. If this happens, check if the shoes are fitting you properly or not.
Will the shoes fit people with wide feet?
The shoes are available in a large number of sizes for people with regular feet shape as well as wide feet. From what I’ve gathered, the ft sizes are divided into two categories: regular and wide and these contain sizes starting from 5 all the way up to 12.
So no matter what shoe size works for you, there’s a Saucony Guide out there for you. So make sure you ask for the right shoe size and check it fits best for you when purchasing.
Can these shoes be used as running shoes?
Yes, the shoes can be used as walking shoes as well as running shoes. On top of that, you can use them for light, athletic activities too. But don’t expect the shoes to last too long. They’ll perform in their optimal state for 5/6 months at best. After that you’ll need to replace them.
6. Nike Sock Dart SE
Nike Sock Dart SE series brings you a wide variety of shoes to choose from. They’re super comfy, stylish and give you a lot of options to choose from. These shoes have a breathable upper, accompanied by a phylon midsole which keeps your feet from overheating. These features make sure the shoes can be worn all day long.
The shoes are easy to take on and take off as they do not have a lace tying system, it’s just a slip and slide method with midfoot straps, you slip the shoe on and you’re good to go. The foam pellets used to make the sneakers comfortable are compressed, heated, cooled, and molded EVA foam pellets. These shoes are basically designed to fit you like socks.
The outsole flex grooves limit your heels movement, holding it in place so you can run or walk without the shoes slipping off. A rubberized mudguard is fitted to the front of the shoe to prevent dampness. The rubber sole is grooved for maximum grip on the platform.
Are these shoes waterproof?
The shoes are guarded with mudguards at the front which prevent dampness. They aren’t completely water resistant, as in, if you go and stand in a puddle for too long, the shoes are bound to get wet. But just a splash of water should be no big deal.
7. HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 7
HOKA ONE Bondi 7 is designed especially for runners. All users have claimed that these shoes are extremely comfortable. The cushioned midsoles keep your feet balanced and make your walks enjoyable.
The synthetic material used for the shoes is breathable and the shoes are tied down with shoelaces to keep them in place. They are available in a variety of different colors and sizes so you can choose what works best for you. The rubber soles offer strong grip on roads and trails.
The shoes are so comfortable as they are designed with foam specifically made for runners. So if you have OSD, these shoes are a great option to get rid of your pain. All this comfort that the shoes give you comes in exchange of the shoe’s durability. The shoes may get damaged due to abrasion after being used for only 5 months.
Can these shoes be used for regular wear?
Yes, these shoes can be used for running, walking, as well as regular use. The foam and simple slip-slide design makes them easy to put on and wear.
But it is not recommended to use the shoes constantly for regular wear as it will only wear them out quicker. If only used as running shoes, the pair can last for as long as 5 months.
The best shoes for your Osgood Schlatter’s Disease – Buying Guide
Now that you’ve got info on the qualities of different shoes, you need to keep some criteria in mind when looking for shoes for Osgood Schlatter’s Disease.
The Outsole Quality
A sizable outsole is what tackles most of the pressure applied on your foot when walking. Different shoes target different areas of your feet to provide maximum support to those regions. Choosing a shoe with a thick outsole means you’re minimizing the pressure your feet feel when they come in contact with the ground.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 and ASICS Gel-Kayano 28 have got voluminous outsoles that will keep your feet cushioned when walking.
The Heel Counter
Shoes specifically designed to support foot injury are often fixed with a heel counter or a firm structure to hold your heel in one place. This helps to avoid slipping when you’re moving as well as keeps the pressure on the shoes constant. A firm heel counter will minimize the pain in your heel and rearfoot.
When buying shoes for OSD, make sure to press the back of the shoes to check if it’s firm or soft. Buy the shoes with a firm heel counter. ASICS Gel-Kayano 28 has firm, comfortable heel counters.
The Lockdown Technology
Shoes may have shoelaces that need to be threaded through eyelets or velcro or just a simple slip and slide. It’s necessary to have a strong hold on your feet so the shoe doesn’t slip off when you’re moving. Shoelaces usually have a better grip and stay more secure when exercising. Puma Faas 600 and New Balance 608 V5 have shoelaces you can fasten for a strong grip.
Slip and slide shoes are easier to put on and take off but may not be as secure as laced shoes. HOKA ONE Bondi 7 shoes are easy to put on and take off and they are super comfy to wear as well!
Conclusion
Now that you’re all equipped with the knowledge of purchasing the best shoes for Osgood Schlatter’s, you can go through these options yourself and decide which shoe works best for you. ASICS Kayano series is overall a user favorite that promises both longevity and comfort. Hope this article helps you find the right shoes which will ease your OSD pains.
