According to Professionals, These Are the 29 Best Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

Hoka One One's "maximalist" shoes stand in sharp contrast to the plethora of minimalist options, which prioritize speed over foot support. The Bondi running shoes are some of the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis sufferers, as they’re wide and lightweight yet super cushioned (in fact, they’re Hoka’s most cushioned road-running shoe), says Bianca Beldini, DPT, a physical therapist, founder of Sundala Wellness, and a USA Triathlon Level One coach in New York City

Dr Gamez suggests the cushioned Asics Gel-Nimbus 21 running shoes. Gel technology absorbs shock as you pound the pavement, reducing that stabbing pain, but sadly that model has been discontinued. There's plenty of toe room thanks to the mesh upper.

Having been vetted by foot and ankle specialists, these Saucony sneakers have been given the APMA's seal of approval. These shoes have a thick, supportive heel and a cushioned, springy feel (the softest ride the brand offers), so they should be comfortable for people with plantar fasciitis.

The Paradigm 6 is another APMA-approved sneaker that uses Altra's maximum platform cushioning to provide a stable and comfortable ride. The foam in the midsole also provides a springy feel that will keep you on your feet.

Some of the best walking shoes for those who suffer from plantar fasciitis are Hokas because of their deep heel counters and signature cloudlike cushioning, which makes your heels feel "hugged." Dr The Cliftons come highly recommended by Gamez for walking thanks to their responsive midsole, which provides a surge of energy to the feet and legs.

Unlike running shoes, which are optimized for speed and performance, walking shoes are made primarily for comfort. Therefore, if you suffer from plantar fasciitis, it is highly recommended that you invest in a good pair of walking shoes. The outsoles of the Brooks Addiction walking shoes are molded to provide maximum cushioning, while the leather upper is soft and supple and

If you suffer from plantar fasciitis, you should consider investing in a pair of these supportive and comfortable walking shoes. Kurusole, a technology patented by the company, cushions your heels and props up your arches, making walking easier on any surface. Dr. Andrew Weil explains that it helps keep the fat pad on your foot in place while you're on your feet. Beldini

Those with low or neutral arches will benefit most from the shoes' neutral arch support. Overuse injuries, such as plantar fasciitis, can be mitigated with neutral arches. As you walk or jog, your foot tends to move around a bit.

The New Balance Fresh Foam X More v4 is the best option for those who suffer from plantar fasciitis and are dedicated fans of New Balance. Long periods of standing or walking in these shoes won't tire your feet out because of the extra-wide platform and responsive rocker shape. Reviewers with plantar fasciitis and heel pain said they were able to stand for long periods of time in these (admittedly chunky) sneakers without discomfort.  

This Nike walking shoe has been clinically proven to alleviate plantar fasciitis pain and overpronation due to its ergonomically sound design. The wide, roomy forefoot provides stability and stops you from rolling your foot while the high-foam sole cushions your feet for long periods of time.

Because of its high level of cushioning, the Topo Athletic Trailventure 2 has been approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) for use in treating plantar fasciitis. Additionally, these shoes have all the features you'd want in a high-quality hiking boot, such as rock plates, rubber outsoles, and ankle protection.

Many of the "best" shoes for people with foot problems like plantar fasciitis or bunions look, well, orthopedic. It turns out that common footwear, such as boots, is acceptable. When paired with some warm socks, the podiatrist-recommended Nisolo boots are a great supportive shoe for the cooler months.

If you suffer from plantar fasciitis but still want to keep up with the latest shoe trends, clogs are a great option. Slip-on clogs like these from Birkenstock are a great example. They are perfect for lounging around the house in, gardening, and other low-impact pursuits.  

Having been approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), this classic Dansko clog is built with foot health (and pain relief) in mind, with an insole that features a densely cushioned footbed and an arch designed for stability and support, promising all-day comfort.

The APMA has approved these waterproof Chelsea boots, which are a departure in style from Chaco's more well-known sandals. Many satisfied customers have left positive reviews on Chaco's website, with one saying, "I'm recovering from plantar fasciitis and have been on the hunt for stylish boots that also provide good arch support—these boots have been awesome." Another buyer says, "I have issues with my heels and foot pain and usually all sneakers hurt my feet, but these boots are a great choice for wearing all day long. These shoes have made it possible for me to walk all day with no discomfort. ”

As well as being stylish, these athletic sandals provide arch support and are simple to maintain. Marko says If you need a more custom fit to ensure that your ankle remains stable, you can adjust the strapping system that wraps around the front and back. Finally, they are water-resistant and can withstand significant wear and tear.

Dr. Martens recommends Teva Verras for long walks because of their backstrap. Marko adds Keeping your foot in place while wearing traditional flip-flops takes a little more effort and gripping. She warns that wearing sandals all day will cause the plantar fascia in your foot to tighten up due to the constant pressure. "But thanks to its backstrap, your foot will remain securely inside the shoe at all times." ”

Thanks to their thick soles, adaptability, and extensive color and style palette, Oofos are a SELF Fave for post-workout recovery (and padding around the house, honestly). In the words of Dr. Marko, they are ideal for people with plantar fasciitis because they have a wide strap to keep your foot in place, a well-padded insole, and a sturdy heel and arch.

Comfortable and fashionable, these strappy sandals are perfect for long days on your feet. The memory foam in the sole is soft, and there's enough of a heel lift to keep your feet in proper position.

The alternative to flip-flops is Dr. Oofos Ooahh slides come highly recommended by Gamez. The reviews should be enough to convince you, but we'll do what we can to help. The shock-absorbing, foot-molding, ankle-, knee-, and back-supporting proprietary foam used in their construction is reminiscent of memory foam. Take them with you to the gym, the pool, the locker room, and the beach!

Most women, especially pronators, have relatively weak calf muscles, which is why Eby rarely suggests flats to her patients. She says, "If the calf is short, the ankle cannot flex sufficiently during gait, so the foot compensates by pronating, which is what we are trying to minimize in plantar fasciitis." While necessary for shoe retention, the gripping action at the toes can irritate the heel. ”

The flats Eby recommends have the aforementioned features, such as a half-inch heel drop, an elastic strap across the instep to keep the shoe in place, and a cushioned insole with moderate arch support. These footwear are not only affordable, but also lightweight, and accessible in a choice of widths.

Even though the idea of "comfortable-heeled dress shoes" sounds contradictory, Dr. Marko says They may not have arch support, but "the cushioning is like walking on pillows," she says. If you put your foot in a heeled position, the plantar fascia will naturally create more of an arch. ”

One of the greatest advantages of low-heeled shoes is their versatility. The key for people with plantar fasciitis is a shaped footbed, like the one in these best-sellers from Ecco. It provides cushioning and stability in the heel cup to keep your feet feeling great and free of painful aches and pressure.

Vionic's Orthaheel technology, combined with the spa-quality terry cloth upper, provides outstanding support for your feet, as claimed by Eby. This is due to the shoe's high arch and deep heel cup, which traps the fat pad under your heel. In addition to protecting the forefoot, the EVA midsole cushions the heel. Their Velcro fastening ensures a snug fit and secure placement on the wearer's feet.

These are the perfect pair of slippers for those with wider than average feet. The orthotic-like Orthofeet inserts provide arch support and foam cushioning, especially in the heel, and are available in two widths. Slip on and off with ease thanks to the suede uppers that are lined for comfort and the low heel counter that allows for the use of alternate insoles or orthotics and gives some heel stability," says Eby. The slipper has an adjustable Velcro strap and a deep toe box for people with bunions or other toe problems. ”

We advise that you purchase some Superfeet insoles. There are differences between the green and blue insoles, such as the depth of the heel cup and the amount of arch support they provide, so picking the right pair is a matter of personal preference.  

Dr. Weissman suggests starting with the blue ones to see how you react before moving on to the green ones. Marko provides some words of wisdom

Eby suggests this orthotic insole as a great alternative to the insert that comes with a pair of shoes. Although Aetrex offers a wide variety of models, Eby favors those with 20 in the model number. e , L420, L2420, etc ) These styles "have a post or wedge on the inner side of the heel to keep the heel in alignment and prevent pronation," she explains, "and healthy arch support to keep the foot from rolling inward."

Dr If your shoes don't provide enough support for your plantar fascia, Gamez suggests getting gel heel cups. These provide structure, while the gel cushions your sole and aligns your feet, legs, knees, and hips.  

These low-priced options from Dr. Scholl's are a great place to start if you've never tried heel cups or insoles You can begin your search at Scholl's. In contrast to Armstrong Amerika's, these will soften the blow of impact and improve the comfort of any pair of shoes.