Like a mattress topper, an insole can be slipped into any pair of flat shoes to provide arch support and cushioning. Theresa Marko, PT, DPT, MS, owner of Marko Physical Therapy, explains that proper ankle alignment improves walking mechanics, knee alignment, and the mechanics of the entire kinetic chain. In addition, many shoes are pliable and soft, but these inserts are rigid, providing support and a solid surface for your feet to push off of as you walk.

The worst kinds of footwear to steer clear of if you suffer from Plantar Fasciitis

Dr Gamez recommends that you do not wear sandals or shoes without adequate arch support. Those adorable sandals that only cost a buck Such footwear is probably not ideal for those suffering from plantar fasciitis. Without additional arch support from orthotics, heel cups, or insoles, flats are just as bad as shoes like Converse and Vans.

In reference to flats, the vast majority have a low profile, provide little to no arch support, and have no extra space for inserts. If you must wear flats, try to find a pair with a half-inch or higher heel to reduce strain on your plantar fascia and secure fit (no toe gripping) if you want to avoid toenail fungus. e , which fastens around the foot via elastic or another means and has a cushioned insole and arch support Eby explains, "Flat shoes are less supportive by definition, so this is a category where personal comfort is most important."

The top footwear for Plantar Fasciitis sufferers

Below, we've compiled the recommendations of physical therapists and podiatrists on the best shoes for plantar fasciitis, from athletic and running shoes to dress shoes, flats, clogs, sandals, and even slippers. Fashionable options from companies like Teva, Dansko, Hoka One One, Clarks, Oofos, New Balance, and Superfeet can be found at stores like Amazon, Nordstrom, REI, and more.

Turquoise running shoe

A Place to Get Your Athletic Needs Met: Dick's

In contrast to the numerous "minimalist" models on the market, which prioritize speed over foot support, Hoka One One is well-known for making "maximalist" shoes that prioritize comfort and stability. 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

Priced at $160 USD at Dick's Sporting Goods
Hoka One One: $160 $128
Asics Gel-Nimbus 24 Running Shoes

Amazon

Dr For a comfortable run, Gamez suggests the Asics Gel-Nimbus 21. Gel technology absorbs shock as you pound the pavement, reducing that stabbing pain, but that model has been discontinued. The mesh upper provides your toes with plenty of air and room to move.

Dick's Sporting Goods, $160
Multicolor sneakers

Zappos

The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) has determined that these Saucony sneakers are good for foot health and has awarded them their seal of acceptance. These shoes provide the ideal balance between durability and comfort, thanks to the thick, supportive heel and cushioned, springy midsole. They should be especially helpful for those suffering from plantar fasciitis.

105 dollars at Dick's Sporting Goods
Altra Paradigm 6

Altra

The Paradigm 6 is another sneaker that has been approved by the APMA. It features Altra's maximum level of cushioning throughout the entire platform, which contributes to a stable and comfortable ride. The foam in the midsole also provides a springy feel that will keep you on your feet.

Hoka Clifton 8

Zappos

Due to their deep heel counters and signature cloud-like cushioning, Hokas are great walking shoes for those who suffer from plantar fasciitis because they make your heels feel "hugged." Dr The Cliftons are among Gamez's top picks for walking thanks to their responsive midsole, which provides a boost of energy to the walker's feet and legs.

Approximately $140, available at Dick's Sporting Goods
Brooks Addiction Walker 2

Brooks

Walking shoes, in contrast to running shoes, are made more for comfort than for maximum performance. So, if you suffer from plantar fasciitis, it's a good idea to always have a pair of walking shoes on hand, even if you only plan on using them to run errands. The soles of a pair of Brooks Addiction walking shoes are incredibly cushioned, plus they have a soft, supple leather upper and a reliable

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Shoes Made by Kuru

For those who suffer from plantar fasciitis, these supportive footwear options were created. With the brand's patented Kurusole technology, your heels will be hugged and your arches will be supported, allowing you to walk with greater ease on any surface. Standing and walking are easier because the fat pad on your foot is supported, as explained by Dr. Beldini

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 Running Shoes

The Sports Shop at Dick's

Because of their neutral arch support, these shoes are well suited for those with either high or low arches. Additionally, neutral arches aid in avoiding the worsening of overuse injuries such as plantar fasciitis. During walks or jogs, foot movement is minimized thanks to the shoe's structure, cushioning, and stability.

Approximately $140, available at Dick's Sporting Goods
White, blue and neon green New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X More v4 shoe on white background

The Sports Shop at Dick's

The New Balance Fresh Foam X More v4 is our top recommendation if you are a New Balance fan and are looking for a shoe to help with plantar fasciitis. For long periods of time, your feet will remain cozy, secure, and energised thanks to the extra-wide platform and responsive rocker shape. Reviewers with plantar fasciitis and heel pain praised the comfort of these (admittedly chunky) sneakers, allowing them to stand on their feet for long periods of time without discomfort.  

The equivalent of $150 at Dick's Sporting Goods
White and light pink Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 shoe on white background

The Sports Shop at Dick's

This Nike walking shoe has been clinically proven to alleviate the discomfort of plantar fasciitis and overpronation. Its wide, roomy forefoot provides stability and stops rolling, and its high-foam sole keeps the bottom of the foot comfortable for long periods of time.

Normally $160, currently at Dick's Sporting Goods
Topo Athletic Trailventure 2

Zappos

The APMA has approved the Topo Athletic Trailventure 2 because of its high level of cushioning, which should help alleviate some of the stress and pain of plantar fasciitis. Extra features like rock plates, rubber outsoles, and ankle protection make these shoes the complete package for a hiker.

Nisolo Everyday Chelsea Boot

Nisolo

The "best" shoes for people with foot problems like plantar fasciitis or bunions often have a distinctly orthopedic appearance. As it turns out, common footwear, such as boots, is acceptable. In colder weather, these podiatrist-recommended Nisolo boots are a great supportive shoe to wear with warm socks.

Birkenstock Super-Birki Vegan

Birkenstock

If you suffer from plantar fasciitis but still want to keep up with the latest shoe trends, clogs are a great option. To wit, these Birkenstock slip-on clogs In other words, they are perfect for lounging around the house, gardening, and other low-impact pursuits.  

Black Dansko clogs

Nordstrom

With the approval of the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), you can rest assured that this classic Dansko clog was created with foot health (and pain relief) in mind.

Price of $145 at The Walking Company
Chaco Fields Waterproof Chelsea Boot

Nordstrom

The APMA has approved these waterproof Chelsea boots, which are a departure in style from Chaco's more well-known sandals. A customer who suffered from plantar fasciitis raved about the boots on Chaco's website, saying, "I've been on the hunt for stylish boots that also provide good arch support—these boots have been awesome." Another buyer says, "I have problems with my heels and foot pain and usually all sneakers hurt my feet, but these boots are a great choice for all-day wear. These shoes have made it possible for me to walk around all day without experiencing any discomfort. ”

Image may contain: Clothing, Footwear, Sandal, and Apparel

Amazon

Dr. Martens recommends these sporty sandals because they are hypoallergenic, provide arch support, and are simple to clean. Marko says The strapping system can be tightened in both the front and back to keep your ankle in place. Moreover, they are water-resistant and can withstand significant amounts of wear and tear.

The backstrap on a pair of Teva Verras makes them ideal for walking long distances, as attested to by Dr. Marko adds In order to keep your foot in place while wearing traditional flip-flops, you'll need to do some extra wriggling and gripping. She warns that wearing sandals can cause the plantar fascia in one's foot to tighten due to the foot's increased activity and work load. Nonetheless, your foot will be securely inside the shoe thanks to the backstrap. ”

You can get all this for only at Dick's Sports Goods!
Image may contain: Clothing, Apparel, Footwear, Sandal, and Flip-Flop

Amazon

The thick soles, adaptability, and extensive color and style options of Oofos have made them a SELF Fave for post-workout recovery (and padding around the house, honestly). In the words of Dr. Marko, they meet many of the criteria for alleviating the pain of plantar fasciitis, including a wide strap at the top of the foot to keep it in place, a well-padded insole, and a sturdy sole.

Naot Kayla Sandal Naot

Nordstrom

These fashionable sandals with adjustable straps are perfect for long days of sightseeing or attending outdoor events. These shoes have a supportive memory foam insole and an adequate heel lift to maintain proper foot posture.

Oofos Ooahh Luxe Slide Sandal

Amazon

The alternative to flip-flops is Dr. The Oofos Ooahh slides come highly recommended by Gamez. The testimonials are convincing enough, but we'll still make our case. The shock-absorbing, foot-molding, ankle-, knee-, and back-supporting brand-proprietary foam they're made of is reminiscent of memory foam. Take them with you to the gym, the pool, the locker room, and the beach!

Image may contain: Clothing, Apparel, Shoe, Footwear, and Sneaker

Zappos

Since most women, and especially pronators, have relatively weak calf muscles, Eby rarely suggests flats to her patients. For example, she says, "if the calf is short, the ankle can't flex enough during gait, so the foot compensates by pronating, which is what we are trying to minimize in plantar fasciitis." The necessary toe gripping to keep the shoe on the foot can be uncomfortable for the heel. ”

One flat that meets these requirements is the one Eby recommends; it has 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 shoes are lightweight, available in two widths, and not too expensive.

Leopard print high heel shoe

Amazon

Even though the idea of "comfortable-heeled dress shoes" sounds contradictory, Dr. Marko says She comments on how comfortable the shoes are to walk in despite their lack of arch support, saying, "It's like walking on pillows." The simple act of placing your foot in a heeled position prompts the plantar fascia to produce a greater arch. ”

Ecco Shape 35 Squared Pumps

Ecco

Wearing low-heeled shoes with almost any outfit. The key for people with plantar fasciitis is a shaped footbed, like the one in these best-sellers from Ecco. It provides comfort and support for your feet by cupping the back of your heel.

Image may contain: Clothing, Cap, Baseball Cap, Hat, Apparel, Rug, and Food

Amazon

Eby recommends the Vionic Orthaheel Technology Spa Terry Cloth House Slipper because of its built-in arch support and deep heel cup that contains the fat pad under your heel. The EVA midsole acts as a heel shock absorber. They'll stay put on your feet thanks to the Velcro straps.

Image may contain: Clothing, Apparel, Shoe, Footwear, and Clogs

Amazon

Slippers for those with wider-than-average feet The Orthofeet are available in a medium and wide width, and their orthotic-like inserts offer arch support and foam cushioning, especially in the heel. According to Eby, "the suede uppers are lined for comfort, and the low heel counter allows for use of alternate insoles or orthotics and gives some heel stability while still allowing you to slide in and out of the slipper with ease." It has a Velcro closure and a deep toe box for people with bunions or other toe problems. ”

Image may contain: Clothing, Apparel, Footwear, and Shoe

Amazon

These Superfeet insoles are highly recommended. The insoles come in two colors, green and blue, and have varying levels of arch and heel support, making it necessary to select the right pair based on the wearer's feet.  

The equivalent of $55 at Dick's Sporting Goods
Superfeet Blue Professional-Grade Orthotic Shoe Inserts

Amazon

In order to gradually increase to the green ones, Dr. Marko gives his opinion on

Only $55 at Dick's Sporting Goods!
Image may contain: Bottle

Amazon

Eby recommends this orthotic insole to replace a shoe's current insert because it is available without a prescription and is of high quality. Although Aetrex offers a wide variety of models, Eby favors those with 20 in the model number. e , L420, L2420, etc ) She says, "These styles feature a post or wedge on the inner side of the heel, as well as healthy arch support, to maintain proper heel alignment and forestall pronation."

Armstrong Amerika Gel Heel Cups Plantar Fasciitis Inserts

Amazon

Dr If your shoes don't provide enough support for your plantar fascia, Gamez suggests purchasing gel heel cups. You'll find that your feet, legs, knees, and hips are all in better alignment after wearing these, as the added rigidity of the soles and the cushioning of the gel in the footbed work together to achieve this.  

Dr. Scholl's Comfort Heel Cushions

Amazon

Check out these low-priced options from Dr. Scholl's to try heel cups or insoles. You can begin your search at Scholl's. Even though they aren't as sturdy as Armstrong Amerika's, these insoles will soften the blow of any stumble and make any pair of shoes more bearable.

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