Sever’s disease is one of the most common causes of heel pain in children and adolescents, particularly those who are active in sports like running, basketball, or soccer. Medically known as calcaneal apophysitis, it occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress. This condition is not permanent, but it can cause significant discomfort and limit mobility.
The right footwear plays a crucial role in managing Sever’s disease. Supportive, cushioned, and flexible shoes can help reduce strain on the heel, improve comfort, and promote healing. Choosing the best shoe depends on foot structure, activity level, and personal preference.
In this article, we have compiled the 15 best shoes for Sever’s disease, carefully reviewed for their comfort, support, and effectiveness. Each shoe is explained in detail with pros and cons to help you make the right choice.
15 Best Shoes For Sever’s Disease
1. New Balance 990v4 – Best Overall Running Shoe for Sever’s Disease
The New Balance 990v4 is a top-rated shoe that offers excellent cushioning and stability, making it perfect for children or teens dealing with heel pain. Its ENCAP midsole technology combines EVA foam with a polyurethane rim for durability and support.
The shoe also features a dual-density foam collar that reduces irritation and provides maximum ankle comfort. The removable insole makes it easy to customize support with orthotics if needed.
Its durable pigskin and mesh upper enhance breathability while ensuring the shoe remains lightweight and flexible during running or walking.
Pros:
• Lightweight design
• EVA midsole
• Dual-density collar
• Removable insole
• Breathable mesh
• Flexible sole
• Durable material
Cons:
• Slightly pricey
• Narrow sizing
• Break-in required
2. Brooks Addiction Walker 2 – Best Walking Shoe
The Brooks Addiction Walker 2 is designed for stability and all-day comfort. It features an Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar that helps control excess motion, reducing stress on the heel.
This shoe also offers BioMoGo DNA cushioning, which adapts to the wearer’s stride and provides excellent shock absorption. The slip-resistant outsole ensures safety on multiple surfaces.
For those who spend long hours on their feet, this shoe provides superior support and reduces fatigue associated with Sever’s disease.
Pros:
• Motion control
• Shock absorbing
• Slip-resistant
• All-day comfort
• Durable outsole
• Arch support
• Reliable brand
Cons:
• Bulky style
• Heavy build
• Higher cost
3. OLUKAI Moloa Kohana Leather – Best Casual Option
The OLUKAI Moloa Kohana combines casual style with foot health benefits, making it a fashionable yet supportive option. Made from premium leather, it is durable and breathable.
Its removable and washable insole provides cushioning and arch support. The hand-sewn stitching enhances durability, while the elastic gores ensure a snug fit.
The rubber outsole ensures flexibility and traction, making this shoe a reliable choice for daily wear.
Pros:
• Premium leather
• Removable insole
• Flexible outsole
• Hand-sewn stitching
• Stylish look
• Breathable design
• Long-lasting
Cons:
• Expensive
• Limited colors
• Not sporty
4. Topo Athletic Hydroventure – Best Trail Running Shoe
The Topo Athletic Hydroventure is designed for active kids or teens who enjoy outdoor sports. Its EVA midsole and flexible rock plate provide excellent shock absorption and toe protection.
The breathable upper ensures comfort, while the dual-padded instep collar prevents irritation. This shoe is also lightweight and supportive, making it suitable for long runs.
Durable rubber outsoles provide grip on multiple terrains, reducing the risk of slips and falls.
Pros:
• Rock plate protection
• EVA cushioning
• Lightweight build
• Breathable mesh
• Durable outsole
• Stylish design
• Dual-padded collar
Cons:
• Slightly heavy
• Expensive
• Limited availability
5. New Balance W990v4 – Best Stability Shoe
The New Balance W990v4 is similar to the men’s version but designed specifically for women and adolescents with heel pain. Its ENCAP midsole offers long-lasting support and stability.
The shoe’s pigskin upper provides softness and durability. A removable insert allows customization with orthotics for enhanced comfort.
This shoe is particularly helpful for children or teens needing extra heel support while maintaining flexibility.
Pros:
• ENCAP technology
• Durable pigskin
• Flexible sole
• Removable insert
• Breathable mesh
• Stable support
• Soft collar
Cons:
• Heavy build
• High cost
• Limited styles
6. Dansko Sophie Slide Sandal – Best Sandal for Sever’s Disease
The Dansko Sophie Slide Sandal is ideal for warmer climates or casual wear. It features a foam midsole for shock absorption and a rubber outsole for durability.
Its synthetic sole ensures flexibility, while coring holes reduce weight and improve comfort. The drilled suckling design helps with moisture management.
This sandal is a good option for those who want an open shoe without sacrificing support.
Pros:
• Foam midsole
• Moisture control
• Flexible sole
• Lightweight design
• Durable outsole
• Comfortable fit
• Stylish sandal
Cons:
• Heavy compared to flips
• Limited sports use
• Pricey
7. Vionic Women’s Tide II – Best Flip-Flop for Sever’s Disease
The Vionic Tide II flip-flop offers casual comfort while supporting heel health. Its Orthaheel Technology lifts arches, reducing heel strain.
The EVA midsole provides cushioning, while the rubber outsole ensures grip and durability. It comes in multiple colors, giving wearers stylish variety.
This shoe is particularly useful for casual outings where comfort and support are still needed.
Pros:
• Arch support
• EVA cushioning
• Lightweight build
• Flip-flop design
• Stylish colors
• Easy to wear
• Quick drying
Cons:
• Minimal coverage
• Not sporty
• Can feel loose
8. HOKA Bondi 8 – Best Cushioned Shoe
The HOKA Bondi 8 is one of the most cushioned shoes available, perfect for reducing heel stress. Its oversized midsole provides shock absorption and soft landings.
The shoe also features a breathable mesh upper and Meta-Rocker design, which promotes natural movement. Its plush collar enhances ankle comfort.
This is an excellent choice for kids or teens who need maximum cushioning for activities.
Pros:
• Plush cushioning
• Meta-Rocker design
• Breathable mesh
• Lightweight foam
• Durable outsole
• Soft collar
• Stylish design
Cons:
• Bulky build
• Higher price
• Limited styles
9. Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 – Best for Running Comfort
The Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 is known for its superior cushioning and shock absorption. Its GEL technology reduces impact on the heel during running.
The shoe features a soft engineered mesh upper for breathability and a flexible sole for natural movement. The Ortholite sockliner adds extra comfort.
It is one of the most reliable options for athletes with Sever’s disease.
Pros:
• GEL cushioning
• Breathable mesh
• Flexible sole
• Ortholite sockliner
• Stylish design
• Lightweight build
• Comfortable fit
Cons:
• Pricey
• Narrow toe box
• Break-in needed
10. Saucony Triumph 21 – Best High-Performance Shoe
The Saucony Triumph 21 combines advanced cushioning with lightweight support. Its PWRRUN+ midsole ensures long-lasting comfort.
The shoe’s FORMFIT technology adapts to the foot for a personalized fit. The durable outsole offers traction on different surfaces.
Ideal for long-distance runners, this shoe balances support with performance.
Pros:
• PWRRUN+ foam
• FORMFIT fit
• Durable outsole
• Breathable mesh
• Lightweight build
• Heel support
• Stylish look
Cons:
• High price
• Limited colors
• Slightly bulky
11. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 40 – Best All-Rounder
The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 40 provides responsive cushioning with Zoom Air units in the forefoot and heel. Its lightweight foam midsole ensures comfort for long runs.
The engineered mesh upper improves breathability, while the durable rubber outsole enhances traction.
This shoe works well for both casual wear and sports activities.
Pros:
• Zoom Air units
• Lightweight foam
• Breathable mesh
• Strong traction
• Reliable brand
• Stylish design
• Comfortable fit
Cons:
• Not very wide
• Break-in needed
• High cost
12. Adidas Ultraboost 23 – Best Energy Return Shoe
The Adidas Ultraboost 23 offers a combination of cushioning and energy return with its Boost midsole. Its Primeknit upper hugs the foot for comfort and flexibility.
The Stretchweb outsole with Continental rubber provides superior grip and durability. It’s a stylish shoe that blends comfort with performance.
A great option for active kids who need responsive support.
Pros:
• Boost cushioning
• Primeknit upper
• Strong grip
• Flexible build
• Stylish design
• Lightweight fit
• Durable outsole
Cons:
• Pricey
• Tight fit
• Limited arch support
13. Skechers Max Cushioning Elite – Best Budget-Friendly Option
The Skechers Max Cushioning Elite is designed for those seeking plush cushioning at an affordable price. It features ULTRA GO cushioning and Air-Cooled Goga Mat insoles.
The breathable upper enhances airflow, while the lightweight sole reduces fatigue. Its flexible outsole improves traction and comfort.
This shoe provides maximum comfort without breaking the bank.
Pros:
• Affordable price
• Plush cushioning
• Breathable mesh
• Flexible outsole
• Lightweight build
• Comfortable fit
• Stylish look
Cons:
• Less durable
• Bulkier look
• Limited support
14. Mizuno Wave Rider 27 – Best Responsive Shoe
The Mizuno Wave Rider 27 uses Wave Plate technology for stability and energy return. Its U4ic midsole ensures cushioning and responsiveness.
The engineered mesh upper offers breathability and comfort. Durable rubber outsoles provide traction on multiple surfaces.
This shoe is ideal for kids needing both cushioning and responsiveness.
Pros:
• Wave Plate support
• U4ic midsole
• Durable outsole
• Breathable mesh
• Lightweight build
• Stylish look
• Comfortable fit
Cons:
• Break-in needed
• Pricey
• Narrow fit
15. New Balance Fresh Foam 880v13 – Best Everyday Wear
The New Balance Fresh Foam 880v13 offers balanced cushioning with its Fresh Foam midsole. It is lightweight yet supportive, making it perfect for everyday use.
Its breathable upper and durable outsole provide comfort and stability. The shoe’s design ensures reduced heel impact.
This versatile shoe works for both sports and daily wear.
Pros:
• Fresh Foam midsole
• Lightweight build
• Breathable mesh
• Durable outsole
• Comfortable fit
• Stylish design
• Reliable support
Cons:
• Slightly stiff
• Higher cost
• Limited colors
Best Shoes For Sever’s Disease FAQs
1. What is Sever’s disease?
Sever’s disease, or calcaneal apophysitis, is a common heel condition in growing children caused by inflammation of the heel’s growth plate.
2. Can shoes cure Sever’s disease?
Shoes cannot cure Sever’s disease, but supportive and cushioned shoes reduce symptoms and speed up recovery.
3. What type of shoes should be avoided?
Hard, flat, or unsupportive shoes should be avoided as they increase heel stress.
4. Are sandals good for Sever’s disease?
Supportive sandals with cushioned midsoles, like Dansko Sophie, can help in casual settings.
5. Do orthotic inserts help with Sever’s disease?
Yes, orthotic inserts provide extra cushioning and support, reducing heel strain.
6. Can kids play sports with Sever’s disease?
Yes, but supportive shoes should be worn, and rest is recommended if pain worsens.
7. How long does Sever’s disease last?
It usually resolves within weeks to months as the growth plate matures, especially with proper care and footwear.
Conclusion
Sever’s disease can be painful, but choosing the right footwear makes a huge difference in recovery and comfort. The shoes listed above are some of the best options for reducing heel pain, offering cushioning, support, and durability. From athletic shoes like New Balance 990v4 to casual options like OLUKAI Moloa, each provides unique benefits.
By avoiding unsupportive shoes and prioritizing comfort, kids and teens can stay active while managing heel pain. Remember to pair supportive shoes with stretching, rest, and orthotics if needed.
If you or your child is struggling with Sever’s disease, now is the perfect time to invest in the right footwear. Don’t let heel pain slow down your life—choose the right shoe today and take a step toward pain-free movement!