When your back is aching, the right shoes can make all the difference. Whether you’re walking around the block or running errands, proper footwear helps reduce strain on your back and improve comfort. Here are my go-to walking shoes for achy backs, and why they work:
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1. New Balance 928v3
A long-standing favourite for spinal support. This shoe offers motion control, excellent arch support, and generous cushioning — ideal for anyone who overpronates or has flat feet.
👉 Link to Amazon UK – Men
👉 Link to Amazon UK – Women
2. Skechers GOwalk Arch Fit
Podiatrist-certified arch support meets lightweight, breathable design. Great for everyday walking and long days on your feet.
👉 Link to Amazon UK – Men
👉 Link to Amazon UK – Women
3. Brooks Addiction Walker 2
Durable, supportive, and designed with BioMoGo DNA cushioning to reduce impact. A firm favourite among those with chronic back pain and posture-related conditions.
👉 Link to Amazon UK – Men
👉 Link to Amazon UK – Women
4. Orthofeet Coral (Women) / Edgewater (Men)
Orthofeet shoes are made specifically for people with chronic pain. These models provide an ergonomic sole, wide toe box, and orthotic insoles to reduce spinal load and improve alignment.
👉 Link to Amazon UK – Men
👉 Link to Amazon UK – Women
5. Hoka Transport Walking Shoe
Known for their thick cushioning and smooth rocker soles, Hoka shoes help minimise spinal compression. The Transport model is stylish and versatile enough for city walks and everyday errands.
👉 Link to Amazon UK – Men
👉 Link to Amazon UK – Women
Why These Shoes Work for Back Pain
The key to choosing shoes for achy backs is finding ones that offer ample cushioning and support. Shoes with proper arch support help align the body and minimise the impact that traveling up from your feet can have on your spine.
Remember
Shoes are important, but to truly address your back pain, you need to consider other factors like posture, strengthening exercises, and lifestyle habits. While the right shoes help, they won’t resolve the issue without a more comprehensive approach.
Free Masterclasses: If back pain is something you’re dealing with, be sure to check out one or both of my FREE masterclass.
FREE Posture Masterclass – Together we assess your body, make immediate changes and consider if this could be the cause of your pain? Click to learn more and enrol.
FREE Back Pain Masterclass – Learn how best to manage your back. Together we look at 12 key areas that need addressing for you to move out of pain. By the end you will have your own road map to recovery. Click to learn more and enrol.
These Blogs May Be Helpful
Can the Wrong Shoes Cause Back Pain?
How To Relieve Back Pain While Walking
Conclusion
Choosing the right walking shoes can make a world of difference when it comes to managing back pain. Supportive, cushioned footwear like the Brooks Addiction Walker 2, New Balance 928v3, and Asics Gel-Nimbus 23 can help realign your posture, absorb impact, and make everyday activities far more comfortable.
But remember — while the right shoes provide important support, they’re just one piece of the puzzle. Building core strength, improving posture, and making small changes to your daily habits are equally important steps toward a healthier, pain-free back. If you need help with this then you know where I am.
Take care, Helen
Helen Manders BSc (Hons) MCSP HCPC
Chartered Physiotherapist
Treating Back Pain Since 2001
P.S. Don’t forget to join me on my FREE Back Pain Masterclass. Click to learn more and enrol.
