If you have ongoing aches or sharp stabbing sensations at the back of your foot, it is likely that you have plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain. This condition is often experienced by runners and can have a lasting impact on your training and daily life. Wearing the right shoes can greatly help to alleviate the pain. The best shoe for you will depend on your running style, foot shape, and walking pattern. However, we have found some shoes that provide the necessary support and structure to effectively manage plantar fasciitis pain. In the following sections, we will provide more information about this condition and offer our recommendations for plantar fasciitis shoes suitable for both running and walking.
What to Consider
Comfort and Fit
When shopping for a shoe to alleviate plantar fasciitis pain, there are several factors to take into account, which can differ for each person. However, it is crucial to choose a shoe that fits well, regardless of the brand or model. Mendeszoon suggests obtaining a professional fitting at a running store, both while seated and standing, at least once annually.
He explains that as we age, our feet undergo changes in both length and width and become flatter. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that our shoes provide enough space for our toes to move freely without experiencing any pressure or tightness. Specifically, the length of the shoe should be approximately the distance between the longest toe and the tip of a thumbnail. Additionally, it is important to have the width of your foot measured, as feet come in various sizes and shapes, to ensure that the shoe provides sufficient room.
Arch Support and Cushioning
The most important thing is to have a shoe with high-quality, targeted cushioning, whether it is for running or not. If your chosen shoe doesn’t have enough cushioning, you can also consider orthotics. However, Mendeszoon advises wearing running shoes to comfortably manage plantar fascia pain. If you must wear non-running shoes, make sure they have good cushioning, midfoot support, and a supportive arch. It is best to avoid slip-on non-running shoes as well as flip-flops, Crocs, and unsupportive sandals, as they can worsen plantar fasciitis.
Shoe Type: Neutral or Stability?
When it comes to running shoes, one style usually does not fit everyone. Therefore, it is important to find a shoe that suits your foot type and the way you walk or run. According to Mendeszoon, there are no specific shoes that can fix everyone’s foot problem. However, he advises his patients to look for the appropriate shoe category. For instance, individuals with a high-arched foot should opt for a neutral shoe, while those with flat feet should consider shoes that offer stability or motion control. If you use orthotics, Mendeszoon suggests bringing them to the running store so they can be properly fitted into the shoes.
Best Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
New Balance Fresh Foam X 860 V12 Plantar Fasciitis Sneaker
The 860 v12, another favored stability trainer, is a comfortable shoe suitable for moderate overpronators and individuals with foot pain. It features a Fresh Foam midsole that provides ample protection against pavement impact, offering a thick and springy feel without adding weight.
The presence of a medial post on the inner part of the foot in traditional stability features helps limit excessive rolling or overpronation. To ensure a secure fit during walking or running, the breathable mesh upper is designed with a double knit structure.
ASICS Gel-Kayano 28 Plantar Fasciitis Shoes
The Kayano is highly regarded by Asics as one of their top shoes for walking and running, primarily because of its exceptional quality and ample cushioning.
The shoe is equipped with stability features that cater to overpronators by incorporating an angled inset to enhance the smoothness of their stride. However, it is also suitable for neutral runners due to its ample responsive FlyteFoam Blast cushioning in the midsole, especially at the midfoot area, aiding in providing improved support for the plantar fascia. Additional padding and impact absorption are provided by gel pods located under the heel and forefoot.
Saucony Guide 15 Plantar Fasciitis Running Shoe
Similar to the Arahi, the Guide 15 is designed with additional foam in a lighter form. This everyday running shoe features a thick EVA-based Pwrrun midsole that is both soft and lightweight, offering flexibility in the forefoot and ample cushioning for the entire foot.
The most recent version of the Guide has an updated footbed that repositions your foot deeper inside the shoe, providing a more snug and supported sensation to enhance your soles.
Hoka Clifton 9
Hoka shoes have deep heel counters and provide a cloudlike cushioning that gives the feeling of your heels being embraced. This snug and soft fit makes them excellent walking shoes for individuals with plantar fasciitis. Dr. Gamez suggests the Clifton as a suitable option for walking due to its responsive midsole that energizes your feet and legs during walks. The Clifton 9, the newest version in this series, effectively relieved the plantar fasciitis pain of SELF’s executive editor and became her preferred sneaker.
Kuru Quantum
According to SELF, Kuru has designed a walking shoe that is comfortable and intended to alleviate foot pain, particularly related to plantar fasciitis. Their patented Kurusole technology offers heel support and arch support, enabling you to walk on different surfaces. Physical therapist Bianca Beldini explains that the shoe also supports the fat pad in your foot, which absorbs impact when standing and walking. Beldini is the founder of Sundala Wellness and is a Level One coach for USA Triathlon in New York City.
New Balance 940 V4 Running Shoe
According to Erik Sims, DPM, managing partner of Sims & Associates Podiatry in New York, the New Balance 940v4 is favored by individuals with plantar fasciitis due to its stability. It is specifically designed to address overpronation, a condition in which the feet roll inward while walking and is potentially linked to plantar fasciitis. While originally intended as a running shoe, numerous reviewers have praised its performance as a walking shoe as well. One Amazon reviewer stated, “This shoe is excellent for plantar fasciitis! I work extended 10–12 hour shifts and remain on my feet the entire time. It is one of two pairs of work shoes that do not fall under the ‘torture device’ category.”
Hoka Bondi 8
Hoka is renowned for its “maximalist” shoes, which are characterized by their chunky design and thick soles, a striking contrast to the numerous minimalist models available. The abundance of cushioning in Hoka shoes makes them an excellent option for individuals with plantar fasciitis. Dr. Beldini explains that the Bondi line, in particular, is highly recommended for those suffering from plantar fasciitis due to its wide and lightweight construction, combined with exceptional cushioning.
Saucony Echelon 9 Running Shoe
Dr. Sims frequently suggests the Saucony Echelon 9 to individuals who experience plantar fasciitis due to its dependable support. It is classified as a “comfort shoe” by the brand, indicating that it possesses a thick foam footbed and a secure midfoot that effectively cushions and stabilizes the foot. Additionally, Dr. Sims mentions that the shoe is compatible with inserts, including larger custom orthotics.
Brooks Ghost 15 Neutral Running Shoe
The Brooks Ghost 15 is recommended by Dr. Sims to patients of all ages because it provides a great combination of comfort and style. Available in more than two dozen color options, it utilizes a soft and lightweight foam to support the feet without feeling heavy. The shoe also offers sufficient room in the upper area without making you feel overwhelmed. Additionally, it is a suitable choice for individuals experiencing arch pain.
Asics Gel-Nimbus 24 Running Shoes
According to Dr. Gamez, the Gel-Nimbus running shoes by Asics are recommended for a comfortable running experience. This popular collection incorporates gel technology, which effectively absorbs shock while running on hard surfaces, thereby aiding in the reduction of foot discomfort. Additionally, it features a mesh upper that provides ample space for toe movement.
Merrell Bravada 2 Hiking Shoes
Merrell is a brand of hiking shoes that has been approved by podiatrists. Among our top choices is the Bravada 2, which received the Best Low-Cut Hiking Shoe award in the 2022 SELF Sneaker Awards. The shoe offers additional cushioning in the heel and has been reported by our testers to feel lightweight when hiking.
