If the shoe doesn’t fit comfortably, don’t wear it, even though they say you should. One of the main causes of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, which is inflammation of the band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot. This tissue, known as the plantar fascia, connects your heel bone to the base of your toes and provides support for your foot’s arch while also absorbing shock when you walk. As the fascia loses its ability to bounce back, it can become irritated due to regular activities. Eventually, even simple tasks like getting out of bed can be extremely painful.
Plantar fasciitis is such a prevalent condition that about two million individuals seek treatment annually. If you’re currently experiencing discomfort from this condition, rest assured that you are not the only one. Numerous runners have encountered plantar fasciitis at least once in their lifetime.
According to John Hopkins Medicine, the initial research university in America, the shoes you have on can cause plantar fasciitis. Flip-flops, flats, stilettos, and old shoes are among the main culprits. This is why specialists suggest changing your sneakers every six months. To prevent injury, it’s crucial to maintain our toes in excellent condition. Having new footwear ensures improved cushioning and support.
1. Hoka Clifton 9 Running Shoes
Advantages:
- Relief for plantar fasciitis
- Comfortable and lightweight
- Generously cushioned footbed
- Responsive bounce
- Supportive
- Springy
There are drawbacks to consider.
- A few shoppers preferred older iterations of the shoe
2. Asics Gel-Contend Walker 2 Sneakers
One advantage:
- AmpliFoam midsole for better flexibility, comfort
- Ortholite sockliner
- Padded collar and tongue
- Cushioning system for shock absorption
- Grippy rubber outsole
- Available in black or white
- Supportive and comfortable
Drawbacks:
- No fun colors
3. Oofos OOahh Slide Sandals
Advantages: – Retains original meaning – Maintains a step-by-step approach
- Awarded the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance for promoting good foot health and being of exceptional quality.
- Designed for recovery
- Moisture and odor-resistant
- Helps reduce stress on sore feet, knees and lower back
- Footbed cushioning
- Works as pool slides or indoor slippers
The drawbacks are as follows:
- Not the most stylish
- Run wide for women
4. Brooks Ghost 14 Running Shoes
Advantages:
- Approved by American Podiatric Medical Association
- High energizing cushioning
- On sale
- Breathable air mesh upper
- Supportive
- Comfortable
- Good traction
Drawbacks:
- Some reviewers said the toe box is too wide for their narrow feet
5. Dansko XP 2.0 Clogs
Advantages:
- Waterproof leather
- Tried-and-true
- Slip-resistant sole (ideal for long days on your feet)
- Arch stabilizer
- Memory foam cushioning
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
Drawbacks:
- Pricey
- One shopper said they make your feet smell bad
6. Aetrex Carly Sneakers
Advantages:
- Accepted by the American Podiatric Medical Association
- Some styles on sale
- Memory foam cushioning
- Stylish
- Stretchy knit fabric
- Shock absorption
- All-day comfort
- Arch support to relieve heel pain
- Machine washable
- Padded heel counter for blister prevention and pronation reduction
- Good support and grip
Downsides:
- Some customers had issues with fit
7. New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12 Running Shoes
Advantages:
- Eco-friendly materials
- Supreme cushioning
- Lightweight, breathable, stretchy
- Engineered knit
- Supportive fit
Drawbacks:
- Shoe runs large — size down
- Some shoppers had complaints about comfort
8. Nike React Infinity Run FlyKnit 3 Premium Running Shoe
Advantages: – Step-by-step thinking allows for a systematic approach to problem-solving and decision-making – It helps to identify and break down complex tasks into manageable parts – Allows for better organization and planning – Ensures thorough analysis and consideration of all factors before making a decision or taking action – Helps to minimize errors and mistakes by following a logical sequence of steps – Facilitates clear communication and explanation of processes to others – Can improve problem-solving skills and critical thinking abilities – Enhances efficiency and productivity by enabling a focused and structured approach to tasks.
- Extremely stylish
- Lightweight
- Very comfortable
- Great arch support
- Cushioning absorbs impact
- Buoyant and bouncy
Drawbacks:
- Slim and snug
9. Revitalign Holly Slippers
Advantages:
- Orthotic Grade Footbed approved by American Podiatric Medical Association to help prevent and alleviate plantar fasciitis, and knee and back pain
- Lined with cozy Sherpa fabric
- Genuine leather welt
- Easy on-off access
- Substantial support
Drawbacks:
- Small/tight in instep
10. Vionic Kensley Loafer
Advantages:
- Super stylish
- Orthotic comfort and support
- Leather upper with grippy lug sole
- Trendy
- Good shoe for the office
Disadvantages:
- Run very large
- Crinkly leather look isn’t for everyone
11. Orthofeet Coral Stretch Knit Shoe
The Orthofeet Coral Stretch shoes are both fashionable and comfortable, with stretchy and breathable materials. These sneakers have lower arch support options for individuals with flat feet or neutral arches. Our editor, who has plantar fasciitis, did not experience any symptoms while testing these shoes. The editor mentioned that the shoes offered excellent stability and cushioning.
We are also fond of the adaptability of these shoes. They possess the perfect blend of elegance for regular use and enough support for extended running or hiking sessions. In addition to the classic white or black, there are numerous adorable color choices. The shoes are obtainable in standard, wide, and extra-wide sizes. If you desire comfort all day long along with a touch of fashion, your expectations will be met.
Orthofeet offers a 60-day refund policy for customers who are not satisfied with their shoes, as well as free shipping, returns, and exchanges for all items purchased through their website.
12. Asics Gel Venture 7 Shoe
Just because you can’t afford expensive sneakers doesn’t mean you have to choose something less comfortable. The ASICS Gel-Venture 7 sneaker offers the same level of support at a lower price point and is suitable for outdoor running and hiking as well as office wear.
When it comes to specifications, the Gel-Venture shoe concentrates on providing support for the heel and midsole. The heel ensures that your foot remains secure while enhancing shock absorption, and the midsole effectively molds to your foot without excessive flexibility. Additionally, we appreciate that this sneaker incorporates an Ortholite sock liner, which not only adapts to the shape of your foot to maximize cushioning but also effectively draws away moisture, resulting in a more enjoyable workout.
13. Mizuno Women’s Wave Inspire 19 Running Shoe
The Mizuno Wave Inspire 19 sneakers have several lovable features, including stable heel support and a spacious toe box. Despite being marketed as running shoes, they were highly enjoyable for extended periods of walking and being active. Our editor, who has diagnosed plantar fasciitis and flat feet, found great comfort in the snug heel support and impressive shock absorption.
The shoe’s sole and insole, which are made of a dense foam material, impressed us the most due to their comfortable and supportive nature. The shock absorption is distributed evenly, and the curved sole facilitates smooth transitions between strides. We tested the shoes on various surfaces such as grass, cement, and paved trails, and found them to provide stability and support. However, it is worth noting that they tend to run smaller in size.
14. ASICS Women’s Gel-Venture 9 Running Shoes
The Asics Gel-Venture 9 running shoes provide a snug and pleasant fit, while offering ample support. Our feet felt stable and embraced by the shoes, particularly in the arch and heel regions. In fact, they provided the same level of comfort as shoes with orthopedic insoles, all at a reasonable price without the need to buy additional $40 inserts.
Despite the shoes’ excellent fit on the feet, the toe box offers enough space for the toes to move comfortably. The heel cup securely holds the heel without any slippage, ensuring constant stability. The shoes were comfortable to wear immediately, without needing any time to break them in, and there were no instances of discomfort or blisters during the entire testing period.
