Where We Stand

After researching and testing dozens of pairs of motion control shoes, Brooks’ Glycerin GTS 20 is our favorite pair for their reliable stability, solid support, and stellar comfort. As we continue to test more running shoes–including updated models of shoes included here—we’ll revisit our list to keep our recommendations current.

What to Look for When Shopping for Motion Control Shoes

• Stability: Motion control shoes are more stable than neutral running shoes to prevent your foot from moving side-to-side in your shoes while you run. Some shoes also have a medial post, which is a firmer or denser material on the inside of your arch designed to reduce overpronation, says podiatrist Janine Ferrigno-Taddeo, DPM. Other pairs have stability technology throughout the entire midsole, like the GuideRails in Brooks’ Launch GTS 10, Adrenaline GTS 23, and Glycerin GTS 20, which help align your feet, knees, and hips. 
• Drop: The drop of a running shoe refers to the difference (in millimeters) between the height of the shoe at the heel and at the forefoot. A shoe’s drop can change your foot strike, how efficient your stride is, and which part of your body absorbs the most impact from running. If you have flat feet or flexible arches, you likely strike with your heels first, so you’ll want to look for motion control shoes with a higher drop (between 8 and 12 millimeters). As an added bonus, motion control shoes with a higher drop also tend to have more cushioning in the heel.
• Arch Support: Motion control shoes should provide solid arch support to help control pronation, especially on the inside of the arch, Ferrigno-Taddeo says. But it’s also important to make sure the support is still flexible so you can run comfortably. 
• Cushioning: You’ll also want to make sure your shoes have enough cushioning to comfortably absorb shock, says Ferrigno-Taddeo. Look for thick padding, but make sure the shoes don’t feel too soft and squishy, as this can cancel out their support and stability. 
• Fit: The right fit is crucial, so avoid shoes that are too loose or too tight. The toe box shouldn’t squeeze or constrict your toes. (Pro tip: A wide toe box can also help prevent bunions, ingrown toenails, and other potential issues down the road.) If you have orthotics, you’ll want to make sure your shoes are long and wide enough to accommodate them, too. 
• Price: Due to their high-quality construction, motion control shoes typically come with a higher price tag—around $100 to $200 per pair. Our most budget-friendly option, Brooks’ Launch GTS 10, is often available for about $110, while our top overall pick, Brooks’ Glycerin GTS 20, was $160 when we published this list. To save some money, we recommend waiting until new shoes are released—that’s when older versions often go on sale.

How We Selected and Tested the Motion Control Shoes

To find the best motion control shoes, we’ve researched and tested dozens of pairs from popular, high-quality brands. For the pairs we select through research, we first speak to our experts and ask them which features to look for in quality motion control shoes. We then review key specs and customer feedback for dozens of shoes from top-quality brands at all price points to find the best options on the market. When testing motion control shoes, we often have two people test each pair to get the most accurate results. As we continue to test and evaluate more motion control shoes, we keep these key criteria in mind: 

• Fit: First, we try the shoes on to assess how they fit. We wear them for a 30-minute walk or run, and keep them on for an additional three hours to see how they feel. During the first wear, we also check the arch, heel, and toe box—do these areas feel snug and supported? Do our toes have enough room to spread out? We continue to check how the shoes fit as we wear them throughout the testing period before determining if they run wide, narrow, or true to size.  
• Stability: To see how stable each shoe is, we wear them while walking and running on different types of terrain, like pavement, sidewalks, trails, and indoor floors. We also consider whether the shoe has enough arch and ankle support. Do we feel steady on our feet while wearing them? Can we feel our feet rolling inward, or do they feel correctly aligned?
• Responsiveness: A responsive shoe is one that pushes us forward with each step and gives us energy back when we land. It should also protect our feet and legs while we run, so we feel refreshed and energized afterward (instead of tired and sore). If we feel like the shoe propels us in the right direction, it earns a high score for this category. 
• Cushioning: We note whether the shoe’s cushioning feels soft or firm, and if there’s enough padding to absorb shock and protect our feet and joints. We also check to see if there’s added cushioning in the shoe’s tongue or collar, which can affect how comfortable it feels. 
• Comfort: Throughout the testing period, we pay attention to how the shoe feels underfoot (and if that changes as we wear it). We note whether it takes our feet some time to get used to the midsole, which can happen with some motion control shoes. Does the shoe feel stiff, or is it flexible enough to help us run comfortably? Do we feel any discomfort or pain in our feet, legs, or joints during or after a run? 
• Quality: As we wear the shoes, we inspect them for any manufacturing flaws, evaluating their design and quality. We bend the shoes at the forefoot and twist the entire midsole to see how supportive they are. We’re checking to make sure they only bend at the forefoot, not the arch, and that they don’t twist at all; this means the sneakers are solid and stable. At the end of the testing period, we note how well the shoes held up. Do they still look brand-new, or are there any significant signs of wear?
• Value: To rate each pair’s value, we wait to check the price until after we’ve completed the testing process and have assigned the shoes a score in every other category. If the shoes perform well—and are priced below the amount we’d consider paying for them—then they earn a high value score. 

Our Experts

• Janine Ferrigno-Taddeo, DPM, a podiatrist with the Millburn Podiatry Group in New Jersey
• Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, podiatric surgeon at NYC Foot & Ankle Center
• April Gatlin, ACE-CPT, a certified personal trainer and master trainer for STRIDE Fitness

Frequently Asked Questions 

How do motion control shoes work?

Motion control shoes work by providing arch support in the midsole; most have additional support in the heel cup, too. Many pairs also have additional features, like rollbars or guiderails, to prevent your feet from rolling in. 

What are the benefits of motion control shoes?

Motion control shoes are beneficial to wear if you overpronate, meaning your feet roll inward excessively when you walk and run. The arch support and other stability features in motion control shoes can help prevent pain and injuries, reduce the pressure on your joints, and help you run more efficiently, says Ferrigno-Taddeo.

What is the difference between motion control and stability shoes?

The difference is that motion control shoes are better if you have severe overpronation. Stability shoes are best if you only overpronate a little because they tend to be lighter and less supportive. 

Why is motion control important when running or walking?

Motion control is important during running or walking if your gait may be unstable without it. This instability can lead to pain, strain, and overuse injuries—which can, in turn, lead to shin splints and knee pain over time.

Are motion control shoes good for plantar fasciitis?

Yes: Motion control shoes support low arches and control overpronation, which can both lead to plantar fasciitis. According to certified personal trainer April Gatlin, ACE-CPT, they stabilize your foot’s movement and help reduce stress on your feet, preventing inflammation of the plantar fascia.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

As a marathon runner, running coach, and writer for Verywell Fit, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, has researched and tested lots of running shoes and gear. She knows that wearing the right shoes for your foot type and gait is crucial for avoiding injuries and staying comfortable on the run. To help create this list, Luff looked at testing insights.