Recommended Shoes for Back Pain

EatingWell • February 20, 2026 • health

Key Points:

Back pain can often originate from inadequate foot support, as poor footwear affects posture and gait, leading to strain on the lower back and surrounding muscles.
Podiatrists recommend shoes with proper cushioning, arch support, and stability, sometimes supplemented with custom orthotics, to help absorb impact and improve alignment.
Recommended shoes for lower back pain include Brooks Ghost Max 3, New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v15, Hoka Bondi 9, Hoka Clifton 10, and Vionic Walk Strider Knit, all praised for their shock absorption, stability, and support features.
Specific shoe technologies highlighted include Brooks’ nitrogen-infused cushioning for shock absorption, Hoka’s rocker-bottom soles for smooth strides, and