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Neutral vs. Stability Running Shoes: What's the Difference?

two people running in Hoka shoes

Whether you’re new to running or have logged countless miles, knowing what type of support you need in your running shoes is very important. The two most common types of support within running shoes are neutral and stability. To help you narrow down which support type you need, our Footwear Experts explain the key differences between neutral and stability running shoes and how to decide which type of support you need for comfort and performance. 

What Is a Neutral Running Shoe?

Neutral running shoes are designed for runners with normal to high arches who don’t need extra support to maintain a neutral stride. A runner who wears a neutral running shoe doesn’t need any stabilizing features to guide the foot into the natural position. Without this added technology, these running shoes are typically lighter in weight compared to stability running shoes.

What Is a Stability Running Shoe?

Stability running shoes are designed for runners with low arches who tend to overpronate while running. Stability running shoes feature special technology within the midsole that helps support and guide the foot to land in a neutral position. As the foot lands on the ground from heel to toe, the extra support keeps the foot level, reducing the risk of injury. With this added technology, stability running shoes tend to be heavier compared to neutral running shoes.

Do I Need a Neutral or Stability Running Shoe?

The way your foot strikes the ground when you run is known as pronation. Some runners overpronate, which means that they land more on the interior portion of their foot, while other runners supinate, meaning they land more on the outer edges of their foot. Knowing how you land on your foot when walking or running will help you determine the type of support you need—neutral or stability. 

Our Footwear Experts are trained to help you determine which type of support is best for you. You can also look at the outsole of a worn pair of shoes. Where is the tread worn out the most?

Signs You Need a Neutral Running Shoe

  • High arches

  • Even wear on the shoe’s outsole

  • Feet land level and parallel to the ground

  • More wear around the outer edges of the shoe’s outsole

Our Footwear Experts’ Best Neutral Running Shoe Picks

Signs You Need a Stability Running Shoe

  • Flat feet

  • Low arches

  • The shoe’s outsole is worn on the interior edge

Our Footwear Experts' Best Stability Running Shoe Picks

Choosing which type of running shoe support you need for your feet is crucial to keep you injury-free and feeling comfortable on your runs. All industry-leading running shoe brands like HOKA and Brooks offer a wide variety of running shoes for each type of support. If you have additional questions on choosing the right running shoes, stop into your local SCHEELS to speak with a Footwear Expert!