Best Running Shoes for Morton’s Neuroma

Have you ever tried running with a stone trapped inside your shoe?

It’s pretty painful, right?

I can’t go more than a few steps without stopping and emptying my shoe, as it becomes far too uncomfortable to keep on running as normal.

Unfortunately, for those that suffer from Morton’s Neuroma, it is a pain and discomfort that they just can’t escape.

Morton’s Neuroma is a very painful condition that affects the ball of the foot. It’s an irritation of the nerve, usually between the third and fourth toe.

A lot of people that suffer from Morton’s neuroma claim that it feels as though there’s a stone stuck under your foot, that is constantly stabbing into you, only you can’t just stop and empty your shoes of it.

However, if you do have this problem all is not lost.

The good news is that it doesn’t necessarily mean you should give up running…

...It just means that you need to get the right running shoes. 

It probably goes without saying that footwear is always important, especially when running. Having the appropriate running shoes makes a huge difference in both comfort and injury prevention while running.

If you suffer from a foot condition, then having the right running shoes becomes even more important.

The shoes I’ve listed as my top picks for people suffering from Morton’s Neuroma are suitable and effective at alleviating the painful symptoms, and at avoiding the condition from getting worse.

However, they’re also just great running shoes that are extra comfortable for those lucky enough not to have any foot problems!

These running shoes are excellent at offering the right support and comfort, with a wide toe box and a low heel toe-drop which is what is recommended for those with Morton’s Neuroma. 

Before you continue, I wanted to let you know I will make a small commission from any purchases you make via the links on this site, it helps pay for the upkeep of the site amongst other things.

Before you continue, I wanted to let you know I will potentially make a small commission from any purchases you make via the links on this page, it helps pay for the upkeep of the site amongst other things.

In a hurry?

Suffering from Morton’s neuroma shouldn’t stop you from being able to run, you just need to ensure you’re wearing the appropriate footwear that is able to provide you with the right amount of support and comfort.

If you don’t wear the right running shoes, the condition can get a lot worse, as well as causing other long-term health issues, such as damage on your knees if you’re running on concrete.

If you’re in a hurry to run then I suggest you check out my top pick: the ASICS Men’s Gel-Contend 5 running shoes.

The ASICS brand is known worldwide and has become a synonym with being the best of the best when it comes to running shoes.

The Gel-Contend 5 running shoes are my top pick for those suffering from Morton’s Neuroma because they have excellent cushioning and padding for that necessary extra comfort.

They are also highly durable, which is great if you’re running on a regular basis.

They have a removable ortholite sock liner and an athletic mesh for moisture control, making them very breathable.

I for one know that there’s nothing worse than sweaty feet after a run, so it helps if they’ve been able to breathe! 

Here are the main features:

• Top brand, reliable and highly recommended
• Gel technology for shock absorption and impact protection
• Amplifoam midsole for added flexibility and support
• Durable and breathable
• Excellent cushioning and structural support
• Removable ortholite sock liner for moisture control

Best Running Shoes for Morton’s Neuroma Reviews

ASICS Men’s Gel-Contend 5 Running Shoes

The solid rubber outsoles allow for great durability. Meanwhile, the athletic mesh and the removable ortholite sock liners allow for your feet to remain cool and fresh, for maximised comfort.

These shoes are designed with rearfoot Gel Technology which provides high shock-absorption to protect your feet from impact. They also have an amplifoam midsole with extra padding, engineered to provide flexibility and comfort for the feet while maintaining a high level of durability and support.

In summary, they are also highly breathable, versatile, and provide maximum support while running.

Pros

• Top brand, reliable and highly recommended
• Gel technology 
• Amplifoam midsole
• Durable and breathable
• Excellent cushioning and structural support
• Removable ortholite sock liner

Cons

• Nothing of note to mention

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Skechers Sport Men’s Verse Flashpoint Oxford

One of the best features of these shoes is the memory foam insoles, which are extremely comfortable and retain the foot shape for a perfect fit that keeps the feet well supported.

Another thing that makes these running shoes ideal for those that suffer from Morton’s neuroma, is that they come available in wider sizes, which is essential to ensure a good fit and therefore help reduce the symptoms.

The synthetic sole is highly flexible, making movements a lot easier and comfortable as you run.

The fabric is 50% mesh and 50% synthetic, making it breathable and able to resist internal moisture, keeping your feet fresh.

The structural support helps protect your feet from the running impact, making it ideal to shield from foot pain and allow you to run comfortably!

Pros

• Memory foam insoles
• Available in wider sizes 
• Synthetic and highly flexible outer sole
• Breathable fabric for maximized comfort

Cons

• Perhaps not as durable as some other running shoes

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ALTRA Women’s Escalante 2 Road Running Shoes

The Foot Shape Technology these shoes have allow your toes to spread out and relax, without feeling constricted, which increases the comfort and stability while running.

These shoes have an Altra Ego midsole sole with a responsive and soft feel for comfort and control.

The outsole features FootPod Technology to map your bones and tendons, adapting to the way your feet move for improved support against impact and pain.

The insole has also been re-designed so that it is less susceptible to compression. These shoes are packed with professional features that will keep your feet perfectly protected while running!

Pros

• Engineered and designed for enhanced performance, comfort, and support
• Fit4Her feature for a perfect fit
• Foot Shape and Foot Pod Technology
• Altra Ego midsole and re-designed insole for comfort

Cons

• Sizing can cause issues

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ALTRA Men’s Lone Peak Trail Running Shoes

Compared to other trail running shoes, these have a trimmed down layer to add more flexibility and comfort in your movement.

The midsole foam formula is designed to give you a resilient and comfortable underfoot feel, which will be perfect to combat the pain caused by Morton’s neuroma.

The balanced cushioning features in these shoes allow your heel and forefoot to be at the same distance above the ground, shielding them from impact throughout your run.

The Foot Shape Technology will allow your toes to spread out comfortably, for comfort and stability which is ideal.

The MaxTrac design is what sets these shoes apart as the perfect option for trail running, as it enhances the traction, grip, and durability, even during rough terrain or harsher conditions.

Pros

• Designed for trail running with a versatile use
• Trimmed down layer for flexibility 
• Midsole foam formula for comfort
• Balanced cushioning
• Foot Shape Technology

Cons

• Not the best option for high-arched feet

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Hoka One One Women’s Clifton Running Shoes

They’re also designed to be super soft and comfortable, making them ideal if you have any kind of issues with your feet.

They’re designed to have an extremely comfortable fit, with a good level of structural support to protect your feet from impact while running.

These shoes also include a unique embroidered design that improves lockdown without adding extra weight onto the shoes.

They’re a great choice for running comfortably while being shielded from any of the pain that the activity might cause.

Pros

• Extremely lightweight
• Super-soft design for comfort
• Great fit and structural support
• Embroidered design to improve lockdown

Cons

• Not as effective to protect your feet as other running shoes

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Best Running Shoes for Morton’s Neuroma Buyer’s Guide

If there’s something that I’ve learnt from my running experiences, is that footwear can make all the difference. There’s a reason they sell specific shoes designed for running!

It’s taken a few many days of sore feet to realise that comfort isn’t just an added luxury, but a health necessity when it comes to sport. If something hurts, it’s because it doesn’t work.

Running shoes are the only layer of protection that we can offer our feet (as well as the socks, of course, don’t ever wear running shoes without socks!)

It is important to give them the necessary importance and to look for footwear that will enhance comfort and support. If you suffer from Morton’s Neuroma, then you 100% need to pay even more attention to the type of running shoes you’re buying. 

When I first got into running, there were many things I didn’t know. I was pretty clueless when it came to choosing running shoes, and didn’t really know what to look out for.

If you’re in that position, then let me help you out. I’ve summarised the basic factors that determine what makes running shoes the best:

The fit of the shoe

I once knew someone that would purposefully buy smaller shoe sizes, because he was self-conscious about how big his feet were. When running, trust me, nobody is looking at your feet.

If anything, they’ll be looking at your pained expression of exhaustion. So do your feet a favour, and make sure you’re buying the right shoe size.

It’s very important that your feet aren’t moving around inside your shoe as you run, and it’s also very important that they’re not constricted.

You need a perfectly comfortable fit so that your feet feel secure, while the toes are left with enough space to wiggle about freely. Especially if you suffer from Morton’s Neuroma, you need to look out for wider fits. 

I recommend you keep an eye out for shoes with Foot Shape Technology, they always ensure the ideal fit you’re after!

Cushioning and padding

I’ve already mentioned how important comfort is for your feet while running. If the feet hurt, it’s not working.

You should be able to enjoy your run, and the only thing that should hurt is the effort.

For those suffering from Morton’s Neuroma, you not only need to protect your feet from pain by having extra cushioning and padding, but you also need to protect your feet from impact.

Running shoes that feature Gel Technology, are the best at absorbing shock and protecting from impact, so I’d definitely look out for them! You should also look out for super-soft interiors.

If your feet feel like they’re wrapped in clouds, then you’re wearing the right shoes. 

Structural support

Structural support is what can help relieve the pressure off of your feet, and it can help protect them from fatigue and soreness.

For enhanced performance, it’s good to look out for running shoes able to provide structural support, while remaining as lightweight as possible.

Trust me, when you’re running, the lighter the shoes are, the easier it is, and the more your feet will thank you for it afterward! 

Fabric and breathability

As I’ve already mentioned, there is nothing worse than running in non-breathable shoes, as they give you the worst-case scenario for sweaty and damp feet, which is stinky enough to put you off from running for years.

It can also lead to many foot problems, so for your health’s sake, make sure the running shoes you buy are breathable enough. Look out for special sock liners or mesh fabric! 

Frequently Asked Questions

What aggravates Morton’s neuroma?

Moving and using your feet can aggravate Morton’s neuroma, as well as increasing any sort of pressure on the ball of the foot and wearing high heels.

The condition develops and worsens with physical activity, as it is usually the main source of excessive pressure on the feet.

According to the experts, repetitive traumatic stress and pressure on your foot can worsen the symptoms and be the cause of pain.

Can I run with Morton’s neuroma?

Morton’s neuroma is a very common problem amongst runners, appearing in different levels of pain and discomfort.

However, this doesn’t mean you’re not able to run, as there are many things you can do to alleviate the symptoms before recurring to more serious solutions such as surgery.

The best and simplest way of dealing with Morton’s neuroma as a runner is to use the appropriate running shoes that will alleviate the pain and protect your feet from the pressure and impact that running can cause. 

You can also take some painkillers before each run to alleviate some of the pain. 

How can runners treat Morton’s neuroma?

The best way runners can treat Morton’s neuroma is by using the right footwear that is able to reduce the symptoms and protect from further development of the condition on a long term basis.

Runners should use footwear that allows for the forefoot to spread out comfortably, and they should avoid high heels which concentrate the pressure of the running impact on the ball of the foot.

Using balanced cushioning and high protection against impact, as well as ensuring high levels of comfort within the shoe, is a great way to run while treating the condition effectively. 

What are the best running shoes for Morton’s neuroma?

The best running shoes for people suffering from Morton’s neuroma are those that offer higher levels of protection against impact, as well as those that have extra cushioning and a balanced sole.

They also need to have a wider fit so that the toes can spread out comfortably without feeling constricted or pressured.

Check out my picks above for my top picks of the running shoes available.