APMA Certified Shoes: Why They Matter and the Best Styles at The Running Well Store
Kathy Gates
/
December 30, 2025
/
American Podiatric Medical Association Certified Shoes and Why They Matter
American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) certified shoes are designed to support healthy movement and long term comfort. At The Running Well Store, we carry APMA certified running and walking shoes that have been reviewed by podiatrists and recognized for promoting foot health. Because footwear plays such an important role in how your body moves, understanding this certification can make choosing the right shoes much easier.
Additionally, many customers feel more confident knowing their shoes meet professional standards. For this reason, APMA certification has become an important guide for people who want supportive footwear they can trust.
What Are APMA Shoes?
APMA stands for the American Podiatric Medical Association. Shoes that earn the APMA Seal of Acceptance meet criteria set by podiatrists who specialize in foot and ankle health. These experts review footwear for support, structure, cushioning, and overall design.
In other words, APMA certified shoes promote good foot health when worn as intended. As a result, podiatrists often recommend these shoes for everyday wear, walking, and running. While they do not treat medical conditions, they support natural movement and comfort.
Why APMA Footwear Is Important
Your feet absorb impact with every step. However, without proper support, that impact can lead to discomfort over time. Poor footwear may contribute to fatigue, soreness, and alignment issues.
APMA certified footwear helps reduce unnecessary strain by supporting natural foot motion.
Because of this, many people notice improved comfort during daily activities. Additionally, supportive shoes can help protect joints in the knees, hips, and lower back.
For this reason, podiatrists often recommend APMA approved shoes for people who want to stay active while protecting their foot health.
Who Benefits From APMA Certified Shoes?
APMA certified shoes work well for many lifestyles. For example, runners often choose APMA certified running shoes for consistent support across higher mileage. Walkers also appreciate the cushioning and stability these shoes provide.
In addition, people who spend long hours on their feet benefit greatly from podiatrist recommended shoes. This includes nurses, teachers, retail workers, and restaurant staff. APMA certified walking shoes are also a great option for anyone returning to activity after time away.
Common groups who benefit include:
- Runners looking for supportive daily trainers
- Walkers focused on comfort and stability
- People who stand or move all day at work
- Anyone easing back into movement
- Customers who want to prevent foot issues
Even if you do not have foot pain, choosing APMA certified footwear can support long term comfort.
American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) certified shoes are designed to support healthy movement and long term comfort. At The Running Well Store, we carry APMA certified running and walking shoes that have been reviewed by podiatrists and recognized for promoting foot health. Because footwear plays such an important role in how your body moves, understanding this certification can make choosing the right shoes much easier.
Additionally, many customers feel more confident knowing their shoes meet professional standards. For this reason, APMA certification has become an important guide for people who want supportive footwear they can trust.
APMA Certified Shoes We Carry at The Running Well Store
We carefully select footwear that balances comfort, performance, and foot health. Because of this, we carry several podiatrist approved brands and models.
Altra APMA Certified Shoes
Altra shoes feature a FootShape toe box that allows toes to spread naturally. Additionally, their balanced platform encourages efficient movement. Many Altra models have earned APMA certification as a result.
APMA certified Altra shoes we carry include Escalante 4, Escalante Racer 2, Experience Flow 2, Experience Form, Experience Wild 2, FWD Via, FWD Via 2, Lone Peak 9, Olympus 6, Paradigm 7, Provision 8, Solstice XT 3, Superior 7, Torin 8, Via Olympus 2, and Timp 6.
ASICS APMA Certified Running Shoes
ASICS combines cushioning with smooth transitions. Because of this balance, several ASICS running shoes have earned APMA certification.
We carry APMA certified ASICS styles including Nimbus, Cumulus, Kayano, and GT-2000. These shoes work well for runners and walkers who prefer a more traditional feel.
Brooks APMA and Podiatrist Approved Shoes
Brooks is known for reliable fit and consistent support. Several Brooks shoes have earned recognition from podiatrists and sports medicine professionals.
Popular Brooks styles we carry include Ghost, Adrenaline GTS, Glycerin, Glycerin GTS, Ghost Max, Beast and Ariel GTS, Addiction GTS, and Glycerin Max.
Why Proper Fit Still Matters
Although APMA certification is important, fit remains essential. Every foot is different, and no single shoe works for everyone. Shape, width, and movement patterns all matter.
At The Running Well Store, we pair APMA certified shoes with expert fitting. Our Fit Specialists take the time to understand how you move. As a result, customers leave with shoes that truly support their needs.
APMA certified shoes offer confidence, comfort, and professional backing. They support healthy movement and help protect your feet over time. Whether you run, walk, or spend long days on your feet, choosing podiatrist approved footwear makes a real difference.
If you are unsure which APMA certified shoe is right for you, visit one of our Kansas City area locations or shop online. The right shoes help you move better every day.
We carry a wide range of amazing footwear! But you can browse all of our APMA approved footwear here. Or, if you prefer you can see the list of approved footwear with links below.
Final Thoughts on APMA Certified Shoes
APMA certified shoes offer confidence, comfort, and professional backing. They support healthy movement and help protect your feet over time. Whether you run, walk, or spend long days on your feet, choosing podiatrist approved footwear makes a real difference.
If you are unsure which APMA certified shoe is right for you, visit one of our Kansas City area locations or shop online. The right shoes help you move better every day.
APMA Approved Shoes We Carry
We carry a wide range of amazing footwear! But you can browse all of our APMA approved footwear here. Or, if you prefer you can see the list of approved footwear with links below.
Altra
ASICS
Brooks (APMA or Podiatrist Recognized)
HOKA
New Balance
PUMA
