Plantar fasciitis can make every step feel like a challenge, but the right pair of shoes can provide the support and cushioning needed to ease discomfort. Whether you’re dealing with heel pain in the morning or struggling to stay on your feet throughout the day, wearing shoes designed for plantar fasciitis can make a world of difference. The best options offer arch support, shock absorption, and proper heel cushioning to reduce strain on the plantar fascia. In this guide, we’ll explore the top-rated shoes that combine comfort, durability, and style—so you can walk pain-free and confidently wherever you go.
Top 5 Best Women’s Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
Top 5 Best Men’s Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
Each of these shoes provides excellent support and comfort for plantar fasciitis, but the best choice depends on your personal needs and lifestyle. Which one are you considering?
Women’s Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis:
1. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23: Best for Stability
⭐ Rating: 4.8/5
Pros:
✔ Excellent stability with GuideRails support
✔ DNA LOFT cushioning provides a smooth, soft ride
✔ Breathable and lightweight upper
✔ Ideal for both running and walking
Cons:
✖ May feel slightly firm for those preferring extra plush cushioning
✖ Higher price compared to some alternatives
Review:
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 is a go-to shoe for individuals seeking support and comfort while dealing with plantar fasciitis. The GuideRails system helps align the foot properly, reducing strain on the plantar fascia. The DNA LOFT cushioning feels soft underfoot but remains responsive, making it great for long walks or runs. While it’s on the pricier side, the durability and stability it offers make it a solid investment for those needing extra support.
2. HOKA Bondi 8: Best for Maximum Cushioning
⭐ Rating: 4.9/5
Pros:
✔ Exceptional cushioning for shock absorption
✔ Meta-Rocker design promotes a smooth gait
✔ Wide base for added stability
✔ Lightweight feel despite thick cushioning
Cons:
✖ Slightly bulky design
✖ May not provide enough arch support for some users
Review:
If you’re looking for maximum cushioning, the HOKA Bondi 8 is hard to beat. The thick EVA midsole minimizes impact, making it ideal for those who experience heel pain or discomfort from plantar fasciitis. The Meta-Rocker design encourages a rolling motion, which can reduce stress on the foot. Although its bulky look might not appeal to everyone, the comfort it provides makes it worth considering, especially for long hours on your feet.
3. ASICS Gel-Kayano 30: Best for Shock Absorption
⭐ Rating: 4.7/5
Pros:
✔ GEL technology absorbs shock effectively
✔ Dynamic DuoMax Support provides stability
✔ Breathable mesh upper keeps feet cool
✔ Durable and long-lasting
Cons:
✖ May feel slightly stiff initially
✖ Heavier than some other running shoes
Review:
The ASICS Gel-Kayano 30 is an excellent choice for those who need both support and cushioning. The GEL technology in the heel absorbs shock effectively, reducing strain on the plantar fascia. The Dynamic DuoMax system offers stability, making it ideal for overpronators. It may feel a bit stiff out of the box, but once broken in, it offers reliable comfort for everyday wear or exercise.
4. New Balance 990v6: Best for Everyday Wear
⭐ Rating: 4.6/5
Pros:
✔ High-quality materials for durability
✔ ENCAP midsole technology provides superior cushioning
✔ Wide toe box for added comfort
✔ Great for casual wear and walking
Cons:
✖ On the expensive side
✖ Slightly heavier compared to running shoes
Review:
For those who prefer a classic look with superior support, the New Balance 990v5 is a fantastic option. It provides excellent cushioning with ENCAP technology, ensuring a stable and comfortable experience. The wide toe box is a great feature for those with bunions or other foot conditions. While it is pricier than some other options, its durability and all-day comfort make it a worthwhile investment.
5. Vionic Walker Classic: Best for Orthopedic Support
⭐ Rating: 4.8/5
Pros:
✔ Podiatrist-designed orthotic footbed for excellent arch support
✔ Deep heel cup promotes proper alignment
✔ Water-resistant upper
✔ Good traction for walking on various surfaces
Cons:
✖ Can take some time to break in
✖ Style may not appeal to everyone
Review:
Vionic is well-known for its orthopedic footwear, and the Walker Classic is no exception. Designed with a podiatrist-approved footbed, this shoe provides firm arch support and a deep heel cup to align the foot properly. The water-resistant upper and durable outsole make it great for outdoor walks. While it might take a few days to adjust to, the long-term comfort it offers is worth the wait.
Men’s Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
1. ASICS Gel-Resolution 9: Best for Stability & Durability
⭐ Rating: 4.8/5
✔ Pros: Excellent stability, durable outsole, great arch support
✖ Cons: Slightly heavy for casual wear
Review:
The ASICS Gel-Resolution 9 is a top-tier choice for those seeking both support and durability. Originally designed as a tennis shoe, it excels in providing excellent lateral stability, making it an ideal pick for people with plantar fasciitis who need strong arch support. The gel cushioning system absorbs shock effectively, reducing pressure on the heel and midfoot. However, due to its sturdy build, it may feel a bit heavy for all-day wear. If you’re looking for a durable shoe with maximum stability, this is a solid investment.
2. Hoka Bondi 9: Best for Maximum Cushioning
⭐ Rating: 4.9/5
✔ Pros: Maximum cushioning, lightweight, breathable upper
✖ Cons: Bulky design
Review:
Hoka has a reputation for making ultra-cushioned shoes, and the Bondi 9 continues that trend. This shoe features an extra-thick midsole that provides exceptional shock absorption, making it one of the most comfortable options for those suffering from plantar fasciitis. The rocker sole design encourages a smooth stride, helping alleviate heel pain. While the cushioning is outstanding, some users may find the design too bulky. Still, if you prioritize comfort over aesthetics, the Bondi 9 is an excellent choice.
3. Brooks Ghost Max 2: Best for Running & Walking
⭐ Rating: 4.7/5
✔ Pros: Lightweight, soft cushioning, smooth heel-to-toe transition
✖ Cons: May not provide enough support for severe overpronators
Review:
The Brooks Ghost Max 2 is a great option for runners and walkers dealing with plantar fasciitis. This model features Brooks’ signature DNA Loft cushioning, which provides a soft yet responsive feel. The shoe also has a slight rocker bottom, which helps promote natural foot movement while reducing strain on the plantar fascia. However, those who need extra arch support may find the shoe lacking in that area. Overall, it’s an excellent choice for daily wear and exercise.
4. Vionic Trent Sneaker: Best for Style & Everyday Wear
⭐ Rating: 4.6/5
✔ Pros: Stylish design, podiatrist-approved orthotic insole, good arch support
✖ Cons: Slight break-in period
Review:
For those who want both style and support, the Vionic Trent sneaker is a fantastic option. It features a built-in orthotic insole designed by podiatrists, offering superior arch support and stability. The leather upper gives it a sleek, casual look suitable for work or outings. However, some users report a short break-in period before the shoe becomes truly comfortable. If you’re looking for a plantar fasciitis-friendly sneaker that doesn’t scream “orthopedic shoe,” this is a great pick.
5. New Balance Fresh Foam 880: Best Balanced Comfort & Performance
⭐ Rating: 4.7/5
✔ Pros: Balanced cushioning, great for long walks and standing, durable outsole
✖ Cons: Not as cushioned as Hoka Bondi
Review:
The New Balance Fresh Foam 880 offers a great mix of comfort and support, making it a reliable choice for those with plantar fasciitis. The dual-layer midsole and top-bed foam provide a soft, cushioned feel while still maintaining some responsiveness. The shoe is versatile enough for both athletic and casual use. While it’s not as plush as the Hoka Bondi, it still provides excellent shock absorption and a comfortable fit for long hours on your feet.
How to Choose Good Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis?
We’ve talked about the three elements which are important. They are heel support, arch support and heel cushions. When deciding, “What is the best shoe for plantar fasciitis?”, you should consider this trio of elements carefully.
Heel Support
Heel support helps with stability and protects the heel. For example, good sneakers for plantar fasciitis will typically offer premium heel support which makes it simpler to run and walk without discomfort. The heel won’t move around and it will be supported via high-tech protective materials which are durable and designed to alleviate or minimize discomfort.
One example of a pair of running shoes which is renowned for providing great heel support is the ASICS Men’s GEL-Nimbus 15 Running Shoe. These sneakers are just one option and they are probably best for those who have high arches. Shoes with support for plantar fasciitis will help you to stay fit without causing heel damage. They are also great for running errands and other types of activities.
Good Arch Support
Arches also need good support and the best foot support for plantar fasciitis shoes will have plenty of arch support within the mid-soles. These shoes for those with plantar fasciitis pain are widely available and one example is New Balance M1540 v2 sneakers. Again, this is just one recommendation. However, these sneakers are known to provide the level of mid-sole support that people with heel pain issues need in order to feel good while they are moving.
Heel Cushions
Shoes for plantar fasciitis pain should have heel cushions, as well as heel support and mid-sole support. Heel cushions protect the heels from pain and damage. When answering the question, “What is the best footwear for plantar fasciitis?”, it’s important to consider heel cushioning. The most comfortable shoes for plantar fasciitis, such as Brooks Adrenaline GTS16 runners, will definitely cushion heels and provide ultimate comfort for a fair price.
Look for Tough and Durable Shoes
If you’re going to spend money on good sneakers for plantar fasciitis, you should make a point of finding tough and durable styles. You’re going to want to get a lot of wear out of your new runners. Tough and durable shoes for plantar fasciitis pain are made from good materials. For example, they may have leather or rugged man-made uppers which are constructed in order to stand the test of time. As well, their interior design elements, such as arch support plantar fasciitis in the mid-sole, should be crafted from fine materials which will offer long-term support. Checking customer reviews of sneakers that you’re interested in should be helpful.
When you shoes which perform well over the long term, based on a lot of great reviews from a lot of people, you’ll be on the right track. The best footwear for plantar fasciitis may just be the best cure for plantar fasciitis. Experts also recommend resting the feet whenever possible. For example, when you’re at home, elevate your feet whenever you can. Experts also recommend that people with plantar fasciitis wear the best shoes to help plantar fasciitis while they are at home, moving around. While you may not be used to wearing shoes in the home, keeping a clean pair of sneakers handy for home activities will be a great way to treat this common heel pain issue.
You’ll Need Comfortable Shoes
Knowing the right level of arch support, based on your own arch height, will help you to access the best heel support for plantar fasciitis. It will give you the capacity to find shoes which are perfect for your feet. We’re all different in that regard, so we do recommend determining your heel height.
However, the styles that we’ve recommended here seem to be proven winners for a lot of people with plantar fasciitis. These best cushioned shoes for plantar fasciitis definitely helps a lot of people to get the arch support, heel support and heel cushioning that they need! These best cushioned shoes for plantar fasciitis are high-quality running shoes and they have all of the design elements that people who suffer from chronic or sporadic heel pain need.
Look for Midsole Stability
Midsole stability is really important and we recommend finding shoes which are known for having this vital feature. The midsole should be tough and supportive enough to absorb a lot of shock, so finding a shoe which is renowned for its shock-absorbing properties will be a smart shopping strategy.
How Can Shoes Help Your Plantar Fasciitis?
When deciding how to treat plantar fasciitis, a doctor’s care will be very important. You should take care to follow your physician’s advice and our guide isn’t designed to be a substitute for medical care from a licensed doctor. However, choosing the right shoes will be very helpful. Good shoes for plantar fasciitis will provide enough support to cushion ad protect damaged plantar fascia and this wearing these types of shoes for plantar fasciitis will be the key to feeling more comfortable while you walk, run and perform other physical activities.
Fashionable shoes for plantar fasciitis are out there! You may choose from sneaker for plantar fasciitis and cute shoes for plantar fasciitis. As well, there are foot inserts for plantar fasciitis and foot splints for plantar fasciitis. As you can see, there are a lot of footwear options and shoe accessories, so you’ll have plenty of choices. Recommend shoes for plantar fasciitis. In general, investing in good support shoes for plantar fasciitis will be the smartest option. You’ll find some affordable choices. If you are budget-conscious, going for inserts or splints may make more sense financially. However, you’ll find that the cost of shoes for plantar fasciitis isn’t really any different than the cost of buying regular shoes. Also, lots of footwear for plantar fasciitis is available online, so shopping via the Web will be a good way to enjoy a world of selection.
In terms of selecting shoes that help plantar fasciitis, you should be looking at three elements and trying to find footwear which offers all of them. These elements are supple cushioning, premium arch support and good heel support. To access the support and protection that you need, you should also consider your arch height. The degree of arch is also known as pronation. Some people don’t pronate as much as others they when walk and they have low arches. Others pronate in a typical way and they have normal arches. Those who over-pronate have high arches.
If you need help with analyzing your gait and deciding on a degree of pronation before buying shoes for heel pain plantar fasciitis, a footwear or orthotics expert should be able to help. You may also find tips online which help you to understand your own gait and arch height.
Once you know your degree of arch, you may be able to find good support shoes for plantar fasciitis which are custom-engineered for your specific arch height. This will be one of the best ways to get the highest level of support from your shoes. Shoes that help plantar fasciitis are out there and so are shoe orthotics for plantar fasciitis!
Advantages of Using Plantar Fasciitis Shoes
Feeling better is what it’s all about! This is why people who buy the right shoes for this condition typically experience a lot of relief, fast! Basically, the right shoes are going to make it easier for you to get the support, comfort and protection that you need. Some shoes don’t have the right elements and many may make plantar fasciitis worse. For example, women who wear high heels may find that these shoes don’t help them to feel better. As well, cheap and flimsy sneakers won’t get the job done.
It’s better to shop around, check out our recommend styles and do some more research of your own before you buy. See what customers have to say about specific sneakers and how they perform in terms of comfort, support, cushioning and durability. We’re lucky to live in a time where it’s really easy to find detailed feedback about a range of running shoes and walking shoes.
If you’re interested in buying walking shoes, the Birkenstock Unisex Arizona is known to provide a lot of benefits, as are Classic Crocs. If you want more style than these shoes provide, consider Vionic Walking Shoes or Orthaheel Walker Shoes. There are tons of great options to suit any taste. It’s about choosing trusted brands and styles which are known for babying feet and making walking easier and more comfortable.
Benefits of Choosing the Right Shoes
At this point, we’ve talked about why choosing shoes with the right heel cushioning, heel support and arch support is so important. These three design elements work together in order to help people with plantar fasciitis to alleviate pain and walk or run with ease. The benefits of choosing the right shoes are clear. It’s just a matter of finding a pair which suits your budget and tastes.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis or Heel Pain?
Usually, plantar fascia absorb shocks, like bowstrings do. They support the feet. If too much strain is placed on these “bowstring” ligaments, the fascia may tear and stretch too much. If this does happen, the fascia may get inflamed.
Sometimes, there is no clear cause for this heel pain health issue. However, in other cases, it’s linked with aging. People who are between the ages of forty and sixty tend to suffer from Plantar Fasciitis more often. As well, people who are very active and participate in certain physical activities, such as running long distances, doing ballistic jumps, performing ballet moves and doing aerobics, are more likely to develop Plantar Fasciitis.
As well, those who suffer from flat feet, high arches and unusual walking patterns tend to be at risk. In addition, people who are overweight may have higher odds of developing the condition. Also, people who stand a lot during work, on surfaces which are very hard, may experience damage to plantar fascia ligaments.
How to Deal with Heel Pain?
One tip is to try and limit how much you use your feet each day. In other words, try to take a break from some of the daily activities which trigger your heel pain issues. This means walking and running as little as possible, especially on surfaces which are hard. For example, walking and running on concrete is not recommended while you’re experiencing plantar fasciitis symptoms.
As well, you may want to take pain relievers which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Advil and Motrin are popular choices for safe and convenient, low-cost pain relief. There are also creams and ointments which relieve pain.
Icing your heels will also help to numb discomfort and take down swelling. Use this drug-free treatment alongside over-the-counter pain relievers or on its own.
Final Thoughts
Lastly, find the right shoes! Hopefully, our detailed guide will make this a lot easier to do! After you do buy the right shoes for plantar fasciitis, you’ll be ready to access treatment on the go. While you should try to take it easy while you are having symptoms, you will always need to move sometimes and wearing the right shoes will make it easier to get things done without heel pain. While shoes won’t cure this condition, they will help a lot and so many awesome styles are out there for affordable prices. So, why not do some shoe shopping today?
Sources:
AOFAS, Plantar Fasciitis Treatments
NHS, How you can ease heel pain yourself
wikihow, How to Tell if You Pronate
