Best Shoes for PTTD: Specific Models and Brands That Actually Help
When you have PTTD, generic “supportive shoes” advice isn’t helpful. You need specific recommendations—what actually works, which brands deliver, and which models are worth your money. Here’s the practical guide you’re looking for.
What Actually Makes a Shoe Good for PTTD
Before diving into specific shoes, let’s clarify what you’re actually looking for:
- Motion control — Prevents excessive inward rolling
- Firm heel counter — Stabilizes the back of your foot
- Good arch support — Reduces strain on the posterior tibial tendon
- Wide base — More stability than narrow shoes
- Rigid midsole — Prevents too much flex
With these criteria in mind, here are specific recommendations.
Best Running Shoes for PTTD
Brooks Beast/Ariel
These are the heavy hitters of motion control. The Beast (men’s) and Ariel (women’s) have the firmest midsoles in Brooks’ lineup. They’re not pretty, but they’re effective. If you’ve tried other shoes and they still feel unstable, these are worth trying.
Who they’re for: People with significant overpronation who’ve tried stability shoes without success.
ASICS Kayano
The Kayano is Asics’ flagship stability shoe. It offers a balanced mix of cushioning and support. It’s not as firm as the Brooks Beast, but many people find it more comfortable for daily wear.
Who they’re for: People who want support but also want some cushioning.
New Balance 1540
The 1540 has a medial post (extra firm foam on the inner side) that controls pronation. It’s available in multiple widths, which is crucial for finding the right fit.
Who they’re for: People who need wide widths or who find other stability shoes too narrow.
Brooks Dyad
If you need a roomier fit, the Dyad is designed specifically for wider feet. It offers good motion control without the aggressive feel of some stability shoes.
Who they’re for: People with wider feet who struggle to find stable shoes that fit.
Best Everyday Shoes
Vionic Walker
Vionic makes shoes with built-in orthotic support. The Walker is a casual shoe that works for walking around town or light errands. Not as much motion control as athletic shoes, but significantly better than regular casual footwear.
Who they’re for: People who want something more casual than running shoes but still need support.
Dansko Professional
If you spend all day on your feet, Dansko clogs are popular in healthcare and service industries. They have a rigid sole and good arch support. The break-in period is real—give yourself a few weeks.
Who they’re for: Professionals who stand all day.
Merrell Moab
Merrell’s Moab line offers good stability and traction. The version with the “MB” (motion bucket) midsole provides extra support.
Who they’re for: People who want a versatile shoe for walking and light hiking.
Best Work Shoes (Professional/Office)
Clarks Cloudsteppers
Clarks makes several lines with decent arch support. The Cloudsteppers line is particularly comfortable and looks professional enough for office wear.
Who they’re for: Office workers who need something dressier.
ECCO Shape
ECCO shoes are known for comfort and quality leather. The Shape line has a built-in arch support and a wide fit.
Who they’re for: People who want leather shoes that don’t sacrifice support.
Allen Edmonds with Orthotics
If you need dress shoes, Allen Edmonds has a wide last that accommodates orthotics well. Remove the factory insole and add your custom orthotics for the best combination of looks and support.
Who they’re for: Professionals who need formal shoes.
Best Sandals with Support
Vionic Tide
The Tide has a built-in orthotic footbed with good arch support. It’s not as supportive as athletic shoes, but significantly better than flip-flops or flat sandals.
Who they’re for: Summer wear when you can’t wear closed shoes.
OluKai
OluKai makes sandals with decent arch support and comfortable footbeds. They’re not medical-grade support, but they’re better than most sandals.
Who they’re for: Casual summer wear.
Naot
Naot sandals have a cork footbed that conforms to your foot over time. They provide moderate support—better than nothing, but not a replacement for proper athletic shoes.
Who they’re for: People who prefer the feel of cork footbeds.
What to Avoid
- Minimalist shoes — No cushioning or support
- Soft, flexible soles — Allow too much motion
- High heels — Put extra stress on the PTT
- Flip-flops — Zero support
- Worn-out shoes — Replace every 6-12 months or 300-500 miles for running shoes
The Bottom Line
Finding the right shoe is personal. What works for someone else might not work for your foot. The key is to prioritize motion control and arch support, try several options, and don’t hesitate to use custom orthotics in shoes that have removable insoles.
Sources
- Journal of Foot and Ankle Research — Footwear and pronation studies
- American Podiatric Medical Association — Footwear recommendations
- Runner’s World and footwear manufacturer specifications