Marathon Prep – Podiatrist Guide to Stability Trainers

Training for a marathon is an exciting and rewarding experience, but it also comes with its challenges. As you log the miles and prepare for race day, the risk of injury becomes a very real concern. Long-distance running places repetitive stress on the body, and without proper care, even the most dedicated runners can find themselves side-lined by injuries.

Lightweight supportive trainers (orthotic-friendly)

Disclaimer: The examples below are general suggestions based on common features that suit flat feet, over-pronation, and orthotic use. They are not a substitute for an in-person gait assessment. Fit can vary by brand, model year, and your individual biomechanics. If you have pain, a medical condition (including diabetes), or a history of recurrent injury, please seek personalised advice from your podiatrist before changing footwear.

Lighter stability picks

These tend to feel supportive without the “brick on your feet” sensation, and all have removable insoles for orthotics.

1. HOKA Arahi 8

   • Lightweight stability with HOKA’s guidance “H-Frame.”

   • Supportive but not overly rigid; good for long runs.

   • Removable insole / generally orthotic-friendly. #1 Athletic Shoe Review Site+2Doctors of Running+2

2. Saucony Guide 18

   • Mild-to-moderate stability daily trainer.

   • Known for being supportive without feeling heavy.

   • Removable insole and a shape that often accommodates orthotics well. Doctors of Running+2Run and Become+2

3. PUMA ForeverRun Nitro 2

   • A supportive “guidance” shoe with a lively, cushioned feel.

   • Still relatively light for a stability model.

   • Removable insole / listed as orthotic-friendly by reviewers. Doctors of Running+2#1 Athletic Shoe Review Site+2

4. ASICS GT-1000 14 (great lighter-budget option)

   • Light stability support for over-pronation.

   • Often a good match if you want stability without high weight.

   • Removable insole and orthotic-friendly build. #1 Athletic Shoe Review Site+1

If you want a tiny bit more cushion (still supportive)

These are a touch more protective for marathon mileage, but not as heavy as “max stability” shoes:

5. ASICS GT-2000 13/14

   • More cushioning than GT-1000, still stable and not overly bulky.

   • Removable insole / orthotic-compatible. Runner’s World

6. ASICS Gel-Kayano 31/32

   • Higher cushioning + dependable stability for long runs.

   • Heavier than Arahi/Guide, but excellent if you fatigue late in runs.

   • Removable insole. Runner’s World

Quick orthotic fit tips

• Remove the original insole before inserting your orthotic.

• Make sure the shoe feels stable without your foot spilling over the midsole edge.

• You want snug at the heel, roomy at the toes, and no pressure across the arch/top of foot.

Final disclaimer: Footwear choice is individual. Even “supportive” shoes can irritate if the last shape, drop, or stability system doesn’t suit your gait. If any new trainer causes pain, rubbing, or altered mechanics, stop using it and get reviewed — bring the shoes and orthotics to clinic and we’ll check fit, wear patterns, and suitability.

Training for a marathon is an exciting and rewarding experience, but it also comes with its challenges. As you log the miles and prepare for race day, the risk of injury becomes a very real concern. Long-distance running places repetitive stress on the body, and without proper care, even the most dedicated runners can find themselves side-lined by injuries.

Shin Splints: Pain along the shinbone caused by overuse, improper footwear, or sudden increases in mileage.

Runner’s Knee: Pain around the kneecap, often resulting from weak muscles or poor running mechanics.

IT Band Syndrome: Tightness and pain on the outside of the knee, usually due to overtraining or poor stretching habits.

Plantar Fasciitis: Heel pain caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, often related to tight calf muscles or improper footwear.

Achilles Tendinitis: Pain and stiffness in the Achilles tendon, commonly due to overuse or insufficient warm-up routines.

Stress Fractures: Small cracks in bones, often in the feet or lower legs, caused by repetitive impact and insufficient recovery time.