The Best Stability Shoes for Runners: PT Approved Picks for Atlanta Runners
Runners don’t need much but the ONE thing they need to make sure they do have is a solid pair of running shoes. Finding the right running shoe can make or break your training. And if you’re a runner who struggles with uncontrolled pronation, shin splints or recurring knee pain, a stability running shoe might be the missing piece in your running puzzle.
As a running specialized physical therapist who works with runners in Atlanta every day, I get asked all the time: “What stability shoe should I wear?”
So, we put together our top stability shoe recommendations (the ones we trust for Atlanta runners who need a little more support) along with an explanation of what makes each one unique.
What Are Stability Shoes (and Who Are They For)?
Stability shoes are designed for runners who overpronate, meaning their feet roll inward more than average and in an uncontrolled manner during each step. While pronation is normal, too much can lead to extra stress on your shins, knees and hips. Stability shoes can help support a runner’s stride if they fall into this camp.
A good stability shoe uses features like:
Medial posting or guidance systems to keep your foot from collapsing inward.
Midsole cushioning that provides support without feeling overly rigid.
Structured heel counters to guide your foot into a more neutral position.
If you’ve ever had shin splints, IT band syndrome, runner’s knee or plantar fasciitis, stability shoes can help reduce your risk of these injuries. Shoes are only a part of the equation though. You want to make sure you work with a physical therapist for runners if you find yourself consistently dealing with these types of running injuries.
Our Top Stability Shoe Recommendations
Here are our favorite stability shoes we often recommend to our Atlanta runners after evaluation or running gait analysis:
1. ASICS GT-2000
This is a workhorse shoe that’s perfect for daily training.
Why We Love It: Lightweight stability that doesn’t feel clunky, reliable cushioning and durable enough for high mileage.
Best For: Runners who want mild-to-moderate stability without feeling like they’re wearing a bulky shoe.
2. Saucony Tempus
This one’s a game-changer for runners who want stability + speed.
Why We Love It: The PWRRUN PB foam midsole feels bouncy and fast, while the guidance frame keeps your foot stable.
Best For: Runners training for races who want a responsive shoe with just enough support.
3. New Balance 860
A long-time favorite in the stability category.
Why We Love It: Plush upper, solid medial posting and consistent feel from year to year.
Best For: Runners who like a traditional stability shoe feel with no surprises.
4. Brooks Adrenaline GTS
The king of stability shoes for years.
Why We Love It: Brooks’ GuideRails technology supports your stride without forcing you into a fixed motion.
Best For: Runners with knee pain as this shoe helps limit excessive knee movement.
5. ASICS Kayano
A premium stability option with max cushioning.
Why We Love It: Luxurious feel, perfect for long runs and a great option if you need maximum support.
Best For: Heavier runners or those prone to Achilles/arch issues who need a soft, stable ride.
6. HOKA Arahi
For those who love HOKA’s signature cushioning but need stability.
Why We Love It: J-Frame stability technology offers support without using a traditional medial post, making it feel smooth and natural.
Best For: Runners with plantar fasciitis or Achilles issues who want maximum shock absorption.
What Injuries Can Stability Shoes Help Prevent?
Stability shoes can play a key role in reducing the risk of several common running injuries. For runners who overpronate, excessive inward rolling of the foot increases strain on the shin bones, which is a common cause of shin splints (medial tibial stress syndrome). By guiding the foot into a more neutral position, stability shoes reduce this stress and help protect against bone irritation.
They can also help with runner’s knee (patellofemoral pain syndrome), which is often aggravated by the knee collapsing inward during running. The guidance systems or medial posting in these shoes provide subtle correction, helping keep the knee more aligned and reducing the painful tracking issues many runners experience.
Another common issue that stability shoes can help address is plantar fasciitis. By giving the arch additional support, they limit overstretching of the plantar fascia, especially during long runs. This support can also help with Achilles tendinopathy by controlling excessive heel eversion and reducing strain on the tendon.
Finally, stability shoes may reduce the likelihood of IT band syndrome. When the foot collapses inward, it increases hip adduction and internal rotation, which puts stress on the IT band. Supporting the foot means the hip and knee stay in better alignment, leading to less strain up the kinetic chain.
Where Can I Get Stability Shoes in Atlanta?
Runners want things to happen fast which sometimes can get you in trouble. Rushing to get a pair of shoes online because you saw an ad or just like the color can lead to potential issues down the road. We recommend that runners in Atlanta check out local running stores to go through a proper fit process and test out different kinds of stability shoes before making their final decision. Most running shoe stores in Atlanta will also have a return policy to let you try out shoes for several weeks to make sure they’re the right fit for you. Check out these awesome running shoe stores in Atlanta:
Big Peach Running Company: locations across Georgai in East Cobb, Brookhaven, Smyrna, Alpharetta, Midtown and more
Fleet Feet: locations in Decatur, Canton, Johns Creek and more
West Stride: located in West Midtown
Road Runner Sports: locations in East Cobb and Buckhead
Highland Runners: located in Virginia Highlands neighborhood
Fit2Run Superstore: located in Dunwoody
When to See a Running Specialized PT
Even the best shoe can’t fix everything. If you have pain that keeps coming back (no matter what shoe you buy) that’s a sign something deeper is going on.
At Tempo PT & Performance in Atlanta, we offer a handful of services for runners that are looking to run faster, run stronger and run injury free. Our 3D running gait analysis helps runners see exactly what your foot, knee and hip are doing while you run. This helps us figure out if a stability shoe is right for you or if you also need strength work or structured physical therapy.
Final Thoughts
Stability shoes can be an excellent tool for the right runner. The key is matching the right shoe to your foot mechanics, mileage and goals. If you’re unsure which shoe is right for you or if you’ve been dealing with running pain that won’t go away, let’s figure it out together.
Book a FREE consultation call with Tempo PT & Performance today and let’s get started.
