Shin splints are familiar to runners of any speed. The injury is brought on by repeated stress from hitting the pavement. Roughly 10-20% of injuries amongst runners are from shin splints. The best Nike running shoes for shin splints aid in preventing the problem before it has time to strike. While shin splints are common, they can be incredibly painful. It’s wise to buy shoes that will help avoid getting them in the first place. Here are the top picks for both men and women.
| Why It's Best | Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Nike Men's Air Zoom Vomero 14 | Built-in foam pads, breathable, full-length cushioning | ★★★★★ |
| Nike Men's Air Zoom Pegasus 36 | Comfortable, breathable, variety of colors, extra cushioning | ★★★★★ |
| Nike Women's Air Zoom Pegasus 36 | Multi-surface traction, slim heel collar, adapts to the contour of the foot | ★★★★★ |
| Nike Women's Epic Phantom React Flyknit | Slip-on style, lightweight, flyknit technology | ★★★★★ |
The Best Men’s Nike Running Shoes For Shin Splints
Nike Men’s Air Zoom Vomero 14
The Nike Men’s Air Zoom Vomero 14 is one of the best running shoes for shin splints. The comfortable shoe has full-length cushioning and a sleek and breathable top. In addition, the shoe provides plenty of ankle support to ensure you can stay at your preferred pace. The Nike React technology offers a smooth step every time your foot hits the ground. This built-in technology is what will help you avoid developing shin splints. It aids in cushioning your feet with each step you take.
Runners will love the mesh upper on those hot summer days. The mesh allows for breathability, durability, and support. Three things that every good pair of running shoes should be able to provide. Also, the running shoes will last for a long time. If you are a runner who hits the pavement often, these are the shoes for you. Finally, the shoes have built-in foam pods inside the collar to ensure a secure fit. These Nike running shoes may be the answer to your next PR.
Pros:
- Built-in foam pods
- Breathable
- Full-length cushioning
- Long-lasting
Cons:
- High price tag
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36
The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 for men rates high when it comes to avoiding shin splints. The exceptional shoes are built with a high-resiliency sock liner that contours to your foot’s shape for the utmost support. In addition, the Pegasus shoe has waffle pistons on the outsole to help absorb impact and offers traction for multiple types of surfaces. Runners who vary their choice of ground will appreciate these versatile running shoes.
The built-in Flywire cables offer a comfortable fit, even as the runner bumps up their speed. The shoes also boast a slimmer heel collar to provide even more comfort. As a note, runners with wide feet will likely find the shoes too narrow. Runners will appreciate the engineered mesh to allow for breathability. Finally, the shoes come in a variety of color choices and sizes. However, keep in mind, the price of the shoes can vary drastically based on your picks.
Pros:
- Comfortable
- Breathable
- Variety of colors
- Extra cushioning
- Flywire cables for lacing
Cons:
- Quality not as high as other Nike running shoes
- Not ideal for wide feet
Nike Zoom Fly Flyknit
The Nike Zoom Fly Flyknit running shoes provide excellent cushioning and have a bootie-like design. While the shoes do come with a high price tag, you are getting a high-quality shoe that will protect you from shin splints and last for many runs to come. The shoes fit like a snug sock, allowing for breathability.
In addition, the exceptional running shoes have extra structure for support without adding any unnecessary weight. The Flyknit upper is incredibly lightweight and goes on like a glove. Runners will appreciate the full-length carbon fiber plate built into the shoe. The shoes are made with Nike’s React technology which offers the runner a soft ride. Finally, the Nike Zoom Fly running shoes come in multiple color combinations. You will have no problem finding the perfect pair to match your running personality.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Snug fit
- Breathable
- Stellar cushioning
Cons:
- High price tag
Nike Flex Experience
To wrap up the list for men is the Nike Flex Experience running shoe. The shoes are built with a rubber sole and have flex grooves in the outsole that naturally move with your foot’s motion. You will benefit from the comfort it provides with each step you take. In addition, the shoes are equipped with a stretchy material to allow for the free motion of your toes.
Runners will notice the deconstructed heel that conforms to your foot, allowing for a secure fit throughout the entirety of your run. To add additional comfort, there is plenty of support at the midfoot. The running shoes have a full-length rubber outsole allowing for excellent traction for any running surface you choose. Finally, there are several neutral color choices to choose from. Keep in mind while the shoes are exceptional, they aren’t best for narrow feet.
Pros:
- Excellent traction
- Rubber sole
- Flex grooves in the outsole
- Conforms to foot
- Secure fit
Cons:
- Not ideal for wide feet
The Best Women’s Nike Running Shoes for Shin Splints
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36
The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 are excellent running shoes for shin splints in women. The shoes are 100% synthetic and made with a rubber sole. In addition, the popular shoes are equipped with more perforations and an engineered mesh for breathability in targeted high-heat areas. The slim heel collar provides comfort while reducing a bulky feel.
The Pegasus 36 offers a smooth ride with its full-length Zoom Air unit. The sock liner has high resiliency and adapts to the contour of a person’s foot. Runners will appreciate the high absorbency the shoes provide, as well as its superior multi-surface traction. Finally, the comfortable shoe comes in more than 20 colors, allowing you to pick out the perfect pair for your personality. You will want to keep in mind that the Pegasus 36 runs large, so you may find yourself sizing down. If you don’t get the correct size, the low heel will likely lead to blisters if there is too much of a gap.
Pros:
- Variety of color choices
- Multi-surface traction
- Rubber sole
- Slim heel collar
- Adapts to the contour of the foot
- Comfortable
Cons:
- The low heel can cause blisters
- Runs large
Nike Epic Phantom React Flyknit
The Nike Epic Phantom React Flyknit are another excellent choice when it comes to running shoes for shin splints. The shoes have a mesh, sock-like upper that conforms to the contour of a person’s foot. In addition, the Flyknit technology gives the runner a lightweight fit, all while offering supreme breathability. You may even forget that you are wearing shoes.
The running shoes are equipped with front and back rubber pods to allow plenty of traction as you hit the pavement. Using the heel pull tabs, the shoes are a breeze to put on and take off. The slip-on style eliminates the need for laces and prevents any potential injuries from tripping on them. Finally, the running shoes come in fun colors like psychic pink, bright melon, and a vibrant blue. There is no chance you will be missed as you zip by in your new pair of Epic Phantom React Flyknit running shoes.
Pros:
- True to size
- Slip-on style
- Lightweight
- Flyknit technology
Cons:
- High price tag
Nike Wildhorse 4
The Nike Wildhorse 4 may look a little wild, but the running shoes provide excellent cushioning for runners. The shoes have a phylon midsole that offers heel support and is suitable for even long-distance running. While wearing the shoe, you will instantly feel the stability and comfort it provides. The shoe is equipped with a Flywire lacing system with diagonal crossing laces.
In addition, the shoes have excellent traction to ensure a smooth run no matter what type of ground your feet hit. The multi-layered upper delivers a lightweight and breathable fit ideal for those long weekend runs. The Wildhorse 4 is also ideal for those who enjoy trail running. Finally, you can choose from several unique color combinations! Let your inner Wildhorse shine in your new pair of shoes! Nothing can stop you now.
Pros:
- Comfortable
- Ideal heel support
- Phylon midsole
- Excellent traction
Cons:
- Not ideal for wide feet
How We Chose the Best Nike Running Shoes For Shin Splints
Comfort
If you are already suffering from shin splints, you want to ensure the shoes you wear are comfortable enough to deal with the painful situation. Wearing shoes with cushioning can help reduce the impact your shins endure as you hit the pavement. The best Nike running shoes for shin splints offer the comfort you need to avoid future shin splints. Many of the shoes on our list are built with the Nike React Technology, which offers supreme cushioning.
Durability
Nike running shoes aren’t necessarily the cheapest option, so they must offer durability to last through plenty of runs. In general, you should replace running shoes every 300-500 miles. However, if you notice the shoes are no longer up to par, it’s advisable to replace them sooner. You want your shoes to last until it’s a suitable time to buy a new pair. If you find yourself buying running shoes often, then it’s time to re-think the pair you are getting. The best Nike running shoes for shin splints are durable enough to last you hundreds of miles.
Secure Fit
When you buy new running shoes, they should fit perfectly the first time you slip them on. If they feel too tight, then go up a size and don’t anticipate you will be able to break them in. The best Nike running shoes for shin splints provide a secure, snug fit without being too tight. You want to ensure the shoes offer enough ankle support while you are running. Otherwise, you will likely end up with both shin splints and blisters. Lastly, the flyknit technology does have an excellent job at offering a secure, lightweight fit.
FAQs – Nike Running Shoes For Shin Splints
Does the wrong pair of running shoes cause shin splints?
Shin splints are caused when there is repetitive stress on your shinbone. While running shoes aren’t going to cause the condition, a poor pair of shoes certainly will not help. Runners are prone to shin splints because they often run long distances throughout the week. If you are suffering from shin splints, it’s advisable to ice the area and allow yourself to rest. Runners with flat or high arches are more prone to developing painful condition, so it’s essential to ensure your shoes fit correctly.
Does cushioning help shin splints?
If you find yourself constantly suffering from shin splints, you may want to invest in shock-absorbing insoles. Having a bit of extra cushioning can help soften the blow as you are getting your miles in. Cushioning will aid in absorbing the impact as you are running. Having the proper shoes will also help prevent shin splints from reoccurring. This is another reason to consider one of the best Nike running shoes for shin splints. Nike does an excellent job at using their React Technology to offer a smooth and comfortable ride.
How can you avoid shin splints?
There are several things a runner can do to avoid shin splints. For starters, invest in a quality pair of running shoes that offers supreme cushioning. In addition, you want to make sure you are doing appropriate stretches before and after your run. It’s also advisable to run on softer surfaces to prevent unnecessary stress on your shins. If you are suffering from shin splints, it’s best to rest and apply ice before hitting the pavement again. While it’s not always easy to take a rest day, it’s crucial in the long term.
