Our Favorite Motion Control Shoes Offer Maximum Support *And* Style (2024)

I’m someone who absolutely needs stability in my running shoes, so when I say I adore the Brooks Glycerin GTS 20, I mean it. And clearly, the APMA agrees with me, as the Glycerin GTS 20’s are approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association as a shoe that "promotes good foot health."

The GuideRails, the brand's proprietary midsoles, provide support for overpronators (or supinators; when the feet roll outward) without too much uncomfortable correction. Plus, I love that these shoes are well cushioned without losing critical responsiveness.

I find myself reaching for these shoes for a variety of runs and activities including treadmill jogs, longer distance road runs, or even walks with my dog. However, it is worth noting that these shoes are not ideal for trail running, as the outsole isn’t designed to take that level of beating.

Read more: Best Brooks Running Shoes

Need cushioning and stability? The Hoka Gaviota 5 has you covered. The H-Frame technology—the previous edition on older models is called J-Frame technology—stabilizes the foot to limit supination or overpronation. Plus, the cushioning is superb and makes logging serious mileage much more comfortable.

In my opinion, the Gaviota 5 is very similar to the Hoka Clifton, but with the added benefit of motion control technology. And just like the Bondi, the Gaviota 5 features a MetaRocker, the brand's curved sole, which helps propel the runner forward.

However, some more flat-footed folks have complained about the "pokey" arch on the Gaviota 5. I’m a flat-footed runner, and I haven’t particularly had an issue with it, but you should be aware that others with a similar foot structure have.

Read more: Best Hoka Running Shoes

The Altra Paradigm 7 is ideal for folks with wider feet (or those who want additional breathing room for their toes to splay) who still want stability. Much like Brooks, Altra uses medial GuideRail technology to provide arch support during runs.

We also like that it it's zero-drop shoe, meaning it has minimal cushioning. This forces your feet to adapt to the workout, and can strengthen your foot, arch, and ankle over time. And if your feet tend to sweat during your runs, the Paradigm 7 has a well-ventilated mesh upper for extra breathability.

Nothing is worse than sweaty feet during a run. Luckily, the New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v5 features a Hypoknit upper, which is made of a perforated material to allow your toes to breathe. If you like a bit of a foot hug, you’ll especially appreciate the supportive design. We also love that it offers tons of stability in the middle of the foot.

If there’s one thing that’s lacking in the X Vongo v5, it’s durability. The rubber treads on the outsole aren’t as hardy as they look. I’ve had reviewers complain about the rubber shredding or peeling off while running on mildly rough terrain. Outsole durability will be less of an issue for you if you primarily run on treadmills or sidewalks, but I’d be weary of taking these on trails.

Trail runners, unite! The Hoka Stinson 7 is poised and ready to help you tackle the toughest terrains. Featuring a durable outsole with rubber lugs, the Stinson 7 kept my feet protected from rogue rocks and sticks in my path. And just like the Gaviota 5, the Stinson 7 has H-Frame technology, Hoka's proprietary midsole which is firm on the sides and soft in the middle. This provides support to keep your feet from rolling inward.

However, like many trail shoes, the Stinson 7’s are heavy. I’m talking almost 11 ounces of heft (which is quite a bit). To me, this fact is a double-edged sword. With a heavier shoe, your feet are traditionally more protected, but you won’t be able to pick up the pace as easily as you would with other shoes.

The Salomon DRX Bliss is an excellent choice for folks who want some stability, but not too much. The active chassis, which features firm support on the sides of the midsoles, are less stiff than stability mechanisms you'll see in other motion control shoes, but they're just enough for gentle correction.

However, if you’re someone who needs additional room in the toe box, these may not be the shoes for you. To me, the Salomon DRX Bliss fit rather narrow through both the midfoot and toe box, which isn’t ideal for runners who like to splay.

Want a shoe that can keep up with daily runs on the sidewalk or treadmill? Pick up the Saucony Guide 16. It features the brand's Hollow-Tech, which is a plastic plate underneath the midsole to provide stability and control your feet from rolling inward. We also like the mesh upper that is both breathable and comfortable.

For a sturdy shoe, it's relatively lightweight, which makes it great for everyday runs. The well-padded upper added an extra layer of comfort, though I wish the outsole had a bit more grip for slippery surfaces.

Part of the Pickleball crowd? Then you need a stability shoe that can keep up with you. We love the Wilson Rush Pro Ace, which features a 4D support chassis ideal for quick lateral movements. Additionally, I was impressed with the durable outsole, which makes me feel confident wearers will have these for many rallies to come.

Although the upper of the Rush Pro Ace is made of some sort of mesh, it isn't the most breathable. If you’re someone who tends to run warm or have sweaty feet, these might not be the best option for you.

• Erica Coviello is a level two certified RRCA running coach
• Kaitlyn Ward is a Foot and Ankle surgeon with ZenToes
• Nelya Lobkova is a surgical podiatrist and founder of Step Up Footcare and KLAW's Biomechanics Consultant

According to the podiatrists we spoke with, the motion control shoes provide temporary relief for people who have severely flat feet (pes planus), or those who overpronate (i.e. when the ankle rolls far too inward) when walking or running.

“Pronation is a natural phase of the gait cycle, but if it becomes uncontrolled or excessive, it can cause lower extremity problems including plantar fasciitis," says Kaitlyn Ward, foot and ankle surgeon with ZenToes.

Need a little guidance? Check out the top things you should keep in mind before purchasing a pair of motion control shoes.

Stability

The number one thing to consider when looking for a motion control shoe is a stability mechanism. Stability can look very different depending on the brand and shoe model, so read the specs and reviews carefully.

With Brooks, GuideRails are the stability technology you’ll want to look for. In terms of Hoka, you’ll want to check for H-frame (or J-frame in older models) technology. If you over pronate or supinate excessively, these mechanisms will help keep your feet and ankles in alignment as you run or walk.

Drop

While having a high or low drop on a shoe isn’t a dealbreaker for stability, it can clue you into where you may strike the ground when running. Shoes with higher drops (10 mm) may have you striking with your heel, while sneakers with low or no drop may make you strike with your forefoot.

Neither is necessarily right or wrong, but I recommend choosing a shoe drop based off of the way you naturally strike the ground, as trying to radically change your form can cause unneeded injury.

Arch Support

The majority of folks who need or want motion control shoes have flat feet (myself included). Thus, having exceptional arch support can also help with alignment of the foot and ankle, which makes running with flat feet less painful.

Price

As with everything, don’t choose a shoe you can’t reasonably afford. You can absolutely get a high-quality stability shoe without spending $200, so make sure to shop around. If you’re worried about the price, check for coupon codes or wait for holiday sales like Black Friday.

Running Shoes For Women | Running Shoes For Flat Feet | Arch-Support Running Shoes | Running Shoes For Overpronation | Stability Running Shoes | Walking Shoes For Women