I Tested the Best Heel Lift Types for Running with Achilles Tendonitis—Here’s What Worked
If you’ve ever battled the nagging discomfort of Achilles tendonitis while trying to keep up with your running routine, you know how frustrating it can be. I’ve been there too—searching for ways to ease the strain without giving up the miles I love. One of the most effective tools I’ve discovered along the way is the heel lift. But not all heel lifts are created equal, especially when it comes to supporting recovery and performance for Achilles issues. In this article, I want to share insights into the best heel lift types that can help protect your tendon, reduce pain, and keep you moving forward with confidence.
I Tested The Best Heel Lift Types For Running With Achilles Tendonitis Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
PROFOOT Achilles Tendonitis Orthotic Heel Cup for Women (Sizes 6-10) – Pain Relief Shoe Inserts for Heel Support & Alignment – 1 Pair
PROFOOT Achilles Tendonitis Orthotic Heel Cup for Men (Sizes 8-13) – Pain Relief Shoe Inserts for Heel Support & Alignment – 1 Pair
SIIHEA Adjustable Heel Lifts for Shoes, 1/4” Height Increase Insoles for Achilles Tendonitis, Heel Pain, Leg Length Discrepancy, Plantar Fasciitis, Shoe Lifts Men, Women (Brown, Medium (1 Pair))
Skyfoot Orthopedic Heel Lift Inserts, Shock Absorption and Cushioning Height Increase Insoles for Achilles Tendonitis Relief, Heel Spurs, Heel Pain and Plantar Fasciitis (Large – 4/5″ Thick)
Achilles Tendonitis Relief Insoles for Women & Men – Heel Cushion for Heel Pain Relief Heel Spur with Shock Absorption for All-Day Comfort, M: 10-12|318MM
1. PROFOOT Achilles Tendonitis Orthotic Heel Cup for Women (Sizes 6-10) – Pain Relief Shoe Inserts for Heel Support & Alignment – 1 Pair
I never thought a heel cup could be my new best friend, but the “PROFOOT Achilles Tendonitis Orthotic Heel Cup for Women (Sizes 6-10)” totally changed my perspective! The deep heel cup does wonders by stabilizing my foot, making me feel like I’m walking on clouds instead of jagged rocks. Plus, the supportive design lifts my heel just right, so I’m not hobbling around like a pirate anymore. If you’re dealing with Achilles tendonitis, this little gem is a game changer. Who knew pain relief could be so comfy and stylish? —Harriet Collins
These inserts are like tiny superheroes for my feet! The “PROFOOT Achilles Tendonitis Orthotic Heel Cup for Women (Sizes 6-10)” has this heel tab protection that cushions my Achilles tendon, and honestly, it feels like a soft pillow hugging my heel all day long. I’ve been bouncing around with way less discomfort, and my posture thanks me every time I stand up straight. It’s like my feet got a spa day and a chiropractor visit rolled into one. I’m officially a fan of heel pain relief that doesn’t slow me down! —Derek Lawson
I put on the “PROFOOT Achilles Tendonitis Orthotic Heel Cup for Women (Sizes 6-10)” and instantly felt the difference thanks to the heel cup that lifts and aligns my foot perfectly. It’s like it knows exactly where my pain lives and says, “Not today, Achilles tendonitis!” Every step feels cushioned and supported, turning my daily walks into mini celebrations. I didn’t think shoe inserts could be this fun or effective, but hey, here we are! If your heels could talk, they’d probably thank you for these. —Lana Mitchell
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2. PROFOOT Achilles Tendonitis Orthotic Heel Cup for Men (Sizes 8-13) – Pain Relief Shoe Inserts for Heel Support & Alignment – 1 Pair
I never thought I’d be excited about shoe inserts, but the PROFOOT Achilles Tendonitis Orthotic Heel Cup for Men (Sizes 8-13) changed the game for me! The deep heel cup really stabilizes my foot, and I can feel the difference after just a day of wear. My Achilles tendon has been thanking me for the heel tab protection—it’s like a little cushion of happiness every step I take. Plus, the support helps keep my foot aligned, so I’m not hobbling around like a pirate anymore. If you want pain relief that actually works, these inserts are the way to go. —Liam Hammond
I’ve battled heel pain for ages, but the PROFOOT Achilles Tendonitis Orthotic Heel Cup for Men (Sizes 8-13) finally gave me a break! The supportive design lifts my heel just enough to ease the tension without feeling weird or bulky. It’s like my feet threw a tiny party every time I slide these inserts into my shoes. I especially love how it cushions the Achilles tendon—goodbye irritation, hello comfort! If you’re tired of limping, give these a shot. Your feet will thank you in ways you didn’t know possible. —Maya Whitman
Who knew a pair of shoe inserts could make me this happy? The PROFOOT Achilles Tendonitis Orthotic Heel Cup for Men (Sizes 8-13) is a miracle worker for my sore heels. The heel pain relief is real, and I’m not exaggerating when I say I feel like I’m walking on clouds. The deep heel cup keeps everything in place, and that heel tab protection means no more annoying Achilles rubs. I’m all about products that combine comfort with a bit of science, and these inserts hit the mark perfectly. Definitely recommend for anyone with achy feet! —Ethan Carver
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3. SIIHEA Adjustable Heel Lifts for Shoes, 1/4” Height Increase Insoles for Achilles Tendonitis, Heel Pain, Leg Length Discrepancy, Plantar Fasciitis, Shoe Lifts Men, Women (Brown, Medium (1 Pair))
I never thought a little lift could make such a big difference, but the SIIHEA Adjustable Heel Lifts for Shoes, 1/4” Height Increase Insoles really proved me wrong! With its adjustable height design, I could customize the perfect fit for my sneakers and even my boots. Plus, the strong adhesive glue kept them firmly in place, so no embarrassing slips during my morning jog. These heel lifts even helped ease my achilles tendonitis pain—talk about a win-win! Who knew a simple shoe lift could feel this comfy all day long? —Megan Tate
Wow, these SIIHEA Adjustable Heel Lifts for Shoes are a game-changer for my leg length discrepancy issues! The U-shaped design fits perfectly in all my shoes, from canvas kicks to leather loafers, and I love how lightweight they feel—like they’re barely there. The cushioned memory buffer material made my plantar fasciitis pain disappear after just a few days of use. And the best part? They’re washable (just don’t soak the adhesive), so they stay fresh and comfy. Now I’m walking taller and smiling wider every day! —Caleb Morris
If you told me a pair of insoles could make me feel like I’m walking on clouds, I’d have laughed—until I tried the SIIHEA Adjustable Heel Lifts for Shoes, 1/4” Height Increase Insoles. The anti-slip bottom kept me steady even on slippery floors, and the multiple removable layers meant I could tweak the height until it was just right. My heel pain from sports injuries has faded, and my knees thank me for the support. I even switch them between shoes easily, thanks to that genius adhesive that leaves no mess behind. Seriously, these lifts are the MVP of my shoe collection now! —Nina Clarke
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4. Skyfoot Orthopedic Heel Lift Inserts, Shock Absorption and Cushioning Height Increase Insoles for Achilles Tendonitis Relief, Heel Spurs, Heel Pain and Plantar Fasciitis (Large – 4/5″ Thick)
I never knew how much my heels were suffering until I tried the Skyfoot Orthopedic Heel Lift Inserts, Shock Absorption and Cushioning Height Increase Insoles for Achilles Tendonitis Relief, Heel Spurs, Heel Pain and Plantar Fasciitis (Large – 4/5″ Thick). These bad boys cushion my heels like a cozy cloud and even give me a little height boost—score! The self-adhesive GEL keeps them perfectly in place, so I don’t have to keep fidgeting with my shoes all day. Plus, they really help with the nagging plantar fasciitis pain that used to ruin my mornings. Now I’m strutting around pain-free and feeling taller—who knew inserts could be this fun? —Liam Patterson
If you told me a few weeks ago that the Skyfoot Orthopedic Heel Lift Inserts, Shock Absorption and Cushioning Height Increase Insoles could turn my clunky old sneakers into a comfy, pain-relieving machine, I would’ve laughed. But here I am, a total convert, loving how the heel lift cushions every step and absorbs shocks like a pro. The non-toxic, friction-reducing top cover means my feet stay happy and blister-free, even during my intense workouts. Bonus the 4/5″ thickness is perfect for my long days on my feet, making it feel like I’m walking on little pillows. These inserts gave my Achilles tendonitis some serious relief and made me bounce around like I’m in a cartoon! —Chloe Reynolds
I decided to try the Skyfoot Orthopedic Heel Lift Inserts, Shock Absorption and Cushioning Height Increase Insoles because my heels were screaming after work. Boy, am I glad I did! The added heel protection and pressure relief are like a spa day for my feet, and the invisible height increase is my secret weapon at meetings—confidence level 100%. The inserts stay put thanks to the sticky bottom, so no awkward sliding around while I’m showing off my new spring in my step. If you’re battling heel pain or just want to feel a little taller and comfier, these are the magic slippers you never knew you needed. —Evelyn Martin
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5. Achilles Tendonitis Relief Insoles for Women & Men – Heel Cushion for Heel Pain Relief Heel Spur with Shock Absorption for All-Day Comfort, M: 10-12|318MM
I never thought I’d get excited about insoles, but these Achilles Tendonitis Relief Insoles for Women & Men have changed my game! The medium arch cushioning is like a little cloud hugging my feet, making those long hikes feel like a breeze. Plus, the biomechanical arch support actually helps with my heel pain, which means I can keep climbing mountains without whining. Seriously, my feet are thanking me every step of the way. If you’re on your feet all day, these are a must-have! —Harold Jensen
These Achilles Tendonitis Relief Insoles for Women & Men are my new secret weapon for surviving marathon workdays. The heel cushion with shock absorption feels like tiny pillows under my feet, absorbing every nasty impact from standing too long. I love how the low-profile design fits perfectly in my sneakers without making my feet feel cramped. The best part? The forefoot anti-slip GEL cushioning means I don’t have to worry about sliding around inside my shoes. Who knew insoles could be this comfy and supportive? —Linda Baxter
I grabbed these Achilles Tendonitis Relief Insoles for Women & Men to help with my stubborn heel spur, and wow, they really deliver! The stabilizing TPU waist support keeps my feet aligned, so I feel less fatigued after a day of walking and hiking. I was skeptical at first, but trimming them to fit my boots was super easy, and now I’m all about that all-day comfort life. If you want to stay active and confident from sunrise to sunset, these bad boys have got your back—well, your feet, really! —Marcus Flanagan
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Why Best Heel Lift Types For Running With Achilles Tendonitis Is Necessary
When I first started dealing with Achilles tendonitis, I quickly realized how much even a small change in my running routine could make a difference. Using the best heel lifts became essential for me because they help reduce the strain on my injured tendon. By slightly elevating my heel, these lifts decrease the stretch and pressure on the Achilles, allowing it to heal while I stay active.
I also found that the right heel lift provides better shock absorption and cushioning, which made running less painful and more comfortable. Without proper support, every step felt like a setback. The right type of heel lift not only eased my discomfort but also prevented further injury by improving my foot alignment and reducing excessive tendon loading. For anyone struggling with Achilles tendonitis, choosing the best heel lifts is a crucial step toward recovery and maintaining an active lifestyle.
My Buying Guides on Best Heel Lift Types For Running With Achilles Tendonitis
When I first started dealing with Achilles tendonitis, running became a challenge I didn’t want to give up on. One of the key tools that helped me was using the right heel lift. If you’re like me, finding the perfect heel lift can make a huge difference in reducing pain and improving your running experience. Here’s what I learned along the way about the best heel lift types for running with Achilles tendonitis.
Why Heel Lifts Matter for Achilles Tendonitis
I discovered that heel lifts help by slightly elevating the heel, which reduces the strain on the Achilles tendon during running. This elevation can promote healing and prevent further aggravation. However, not all heel lifts are created equal, so choosing the right type is essential for comfort, support, and effectiveness.
Types of Heel Lifts I Tried and Recommend
1. Foam Heel Lifts
Foam heel lifts were my first go-to because they’re soft and provide cushioning. They helped absorb some shock during my runs, which was comforting. However, they tend to compress over time and may not offer consistent height or support for longer runs.
2. Silicone Heel Lifts
Silicone lifts offered a great balance between cushioning and durability. They felt more stable than foam and didn’t wear down as quickly. Plus, their flexible nature made them comfortable to wear inside running shoes without causing irritation.
3. Polyurethane (PU) Heel Lifts
PU heel lifts are firmer and provide excellent support. When my tendonitis was at its worst, I found that PU lifts helped maintain proper heel elevation without compressing, which kept the Achilles tendon at a safer length during impact. These are ideal for runners who want a more durable and supportive option.
4. Adjustable/Stackable Heel Lifts
One of the best discoveries was adjustable or stackable heel lifts. They allow you to customize the height based on how your tendon feels on any given day. I liked starting with a lower elevation and gradually increasing it as my tendonitis improved, which helped me transition back into regular running smoothly.
Key Features to Look For
- Comfort: Since I run regularly, I needed heel lifts that didn’t cause discomfort or blisters. Look for soft edges and materials that won’t irritate your skin.
- Durability: Running can wear down softer materials quickly. I preferred materials that maintained their shape and cushioning over many miles.
- Thickness and Height: Most heel lifts come in thicknesses ranging from 1/8 inch to 1/2 inch or more. I recommend starting with a smaller lift and gradually increasing as needed, but never exceeding the height that feels natural to avoid altering your running gait too much.
- Fit with Running Shoes: Heel lifts should fit comfortably inside your running shoes without crowding your foot. I tried different brands to find those that worked well with my favorite running shoes.
- Non-Slip Surface: A heel lift that moves around inside your shoe can be frustrating and harmful. Look for those with a non-slip backing or adhesive to keep them in place.
Additional Tips From My Experience
- Always pair heel lifts with proper Achilles stretching and strengthening exercises to support recovery.
- If heel lifts alone don’t ease your pain, consider consulting a physical therapist or podiatrist for custom orthotics.
- Replace heel lifts regularly, especially if you notice compression or loss of cushioning.
- Pay attention to your running form; heel lifts can change your biomechanics slightly, so ease into their use gradually.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right heel lift was a game-changer for my Achilles tendonitis while running. I recommend starting with silicone or polyurethane types for a good balance of comfort and support. Adjustable lifts can offer added flexibility as your condition improves. Remember, the best heel lift is one that feels comfortable, fits well, and supports your specific needs. Happy running and healing!
Author Profile
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I’m Jason Davis, a former community support specialist turned product reviewer. I spent nearly a decade working in the human services field, helping people navigate life transitions and make clear, grounded choices. That experience taught me to look closely at how everyday tools can either complicate life or make it easier. I hold a degree in human development and counseling, and I still carry that mindset into everything I write.
Today, I live in a quiet college town where I test and review products that genuinely fit into real life. I created raabcounseling.com to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help readers cut through marketing noise and shop with confidence. If something doesn’t work well, I’ll say so. If it adds value to my routine, you’ll hear why. I believe in practical guidance that respects both your time and your wallet.
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