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Plantar fasciitis affects about 10% of the entire world population, which roughly works out to 700,000,000 people worldwide. It presents as severe plantar heel pain that if left untreated can become a chronic problem. There are several treatment options including but not limited to medications, steroid use, and RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation).
When it comes to plantar fasciitis, relief, prevention and cure is broad, as are the causes and symptoms. However, the cheapest, quickest and most effective treatment is to ensure the correct footwear is always worn. Getting the appropriate footwear will truly help and prevent additional damage to your feet. So how can you say that a certain pair is the best? The best shoes or footwear will be able to provide the support your foot needs, and will effectively absorb shock from running or walking. For those lucky enough to have stumbled across this page and have pain-free and problem-free healthy feet, make sure you’re continuing to wear the correct footwear in order to prevent damage to your feet in the future. For those already experiencing arch, foot or heel pain, you’ll need to invest in some new sneakers. There are numerous things to look out for when choosing a pair of the best shoes for plantar fasciitis, and it can become overwhelming with all the different brands, choice and technical jargon, but no need to stress because our buying guide summarizes and simplifies everything you need to know. So, what are you waiting for? Feel free to read on.
Most people who suffer from the disorder have had much success in reducing their midfoot and back of heel pain via non-surgical treatments simply by changing their footwear. This is the quickest, cheapest and most effective way forward, and for this reason based on actual verified owner input we have produced a list of the best shoes for plantar fasciitis. The shoe reviews and pictures are not gender specific, for example each of the below come in different designs and color combinations to suit both men’s and women’s fashion needs.
Best Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
1
Asics Gel-Kayano 22
Like the Kayano 21, the newer and revised 22’s are also a great pair of running shoes for plantar fasciitis, both available for men and women. The sneakers come in various different colors so you can ensure that you’ll find a match for any taste. It is made of an imported synthetic material with a rubber sole to prevent slips and trips. It is specially designed to improve the natural gait (or alignment) and attempts to offer a natural relief from pain such as that arising from the fascia ligament. The included gel insert is easy to remove and replace if need be but offers a great support system for the wearer. The shoe looks great and would fit in with anyone’s wardrobe. The heel measures at 1.5” inches, and offers a moisture-wicking sock liner so it is great for those running in warm weather. Whether you opt for the 21 or 22, rest assured you’ll be purchasing a product made by one of the best brands in the world.
Key Features:
- Created with Asics High Abrasion Rubber
- Features Rearfoot and Forefoot gel cushioning
- Boasts its Dynamic DuoMax Support System
Specification:
Pros
- The good impressive blend of cushioning makes the pair very comfortable
- Very responsive and springy footbed
- Great design with many colors to choose from
Cons
- The uppers of the shoes can be too narrow or tight for some
- The interiors of the shoes are not very durable
- Inner lining is flimsy
2
Asics GT 2000 4
When reading Asics running shoe reviews you’ll learn that these are well known for leading cutting edge technology. Thus, they are also good at creating shoes for foot pain relief. The GT 2000 is made of imported synthetic leather with a rubber sole to again reduce the risks of slips and falls. This particular shoe is specially formulated to help those running with a mild to moderate overpronation. It has an impact guidance system to help guide your foot to the proper placement upon touching the ground. Of course it also offers a front and rear foot GEL cushioning system for comfort which Asics create so perfectly. They also boast that this is one of their lightest they have ever made. The insert is composed of two layers of memory foam that is designed to form to each user’s foot so you will actually get a personalized fit.
Key Features:
- Equipped with FluidRide midsole technology
- Made with a dual-density foam, Dynamic DuoMax Support System
- Created with Impact Guidance System, Guidance Trusstic System, and the Guidance Line® assist the foot through the gait cycle
Specification:
Pros
- Very comfortable and safe even for those with injuries and foot issues
- Durable and sturdy even after many uses
- Not only great for running but also for casual wear
Cons
- The interiors may cause blisters to some
- The toe box is narrow for some
- Limits foot flexibility for some
3
Brooks Beast 14
These are Brooks’ top of the range motion control shoes; recommended by podiatrists as one of top plantar fasciitis shoes in 2017, they provide excellent performance for the heavy-to-severe overpronator. The Diagonal Rollbar adds rigidity to the forefoot and enhances mid-foot support, whilst cushioning is taken care of by the Full-Foot Brooks DNA Cushioning Technology which automatically and physically adapting with each foot strike to provide optimal balance and stability. Highly rated by owners, and considered one of the best shoes in its category by professionals, the Brooks Beast 14 doesn’t come cheap but is certainly worth the price tag.
Key Features:
- Features moisture-managing capacity
- Come with full-length DNA cushioning
- Has BioMoGo full-length midsole that offers impressively resilient cushioning
Specification:
Pros
- Constructed with environment-friendly materials
- Made with a snug fit to keep feet in place
- Impressive stability
- Very flexible and versatile
Cons
- Not ideal for those with wide feet
- Slightly heavy
- A bit pricey
4
New Balance 990v3
Not only are these built to last, they also provide a medical level of support and comfort with the aesthetics of trendy everyday fashion sneakers. The 990 range is a heritage classic which is under continual improvement, and the latest M990v3 is credit to their line up. Known for alleviating foot problems as a whole due to their pronation control and plenty of effective padding in the removable orthotic insoles, these are definitely a good choice for those who require foot pain relief.
Key Features:
- Features NDurance rubber for maximum sturdiness
- ABZORB foam for great comfort
- Effectively stabilizes foot with the use of TPU post
Specification:
Pros
- Good quality shoes for a good price
- Comes in a versatile and classic style
- Works great for mild to moderate over-pronation
- Breathable
Cons
- The outsole is not very durable
- A bit bulky and heavy
- Discrepancies in sizing
5
New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v7
New Balance, a name that is synonymous with running has decided to create one of the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis, offering a solution designed for those experiencing the dreaded inflammation and pain of the ligament. The Fresh Foam 1080v7 comes in five various colors including light blue, purple, gray, pink, and blue-pink. The material of the shoe is manufactured using imported synthetic fabric all designed with a singular purpose of providing comfort. The fresh foam of the midsole is sure to provide an adequate amount of arch support and overall has an impact on improving gait and overpronation of the foot. New Balance decided to use science and proven data to design these sneakers, and in turn have produced a tremendous pair of plantar fasciitis shoes which are hard to rival.
Key Features:
- Uses Fresh Foam technology for ample cushioning and responsiveness
- Flex grooves on forefoot area for comfort and flexibility
- Features Ndurance Carbon rubber
Specification:
Pros
- Great and impressive aesthetic design
- Good traction capability and stability
- Fits true to size
- Very comfortable
Cons
- Can be a bit narrow to some
- Questionable durability
6
Nike Air Max 2017
Nike running shoes now have a newly released Air Max, and they have improved upon what are already successful sneakers. They used a creative combination of synthetic and mesh material while integrating a series of fly wire cables that function as a lacing system. The plush foam and mesh tongue offering a breathable surface, while the mid sole offers improved motion control for those harmful overpronation issues. As an added safety feature Nike placed a reflective pattern on the side of Air Max 2017. This particular design is offered in six different color variations so you are sure to find just the right color to express yourself while alleviating mid-foot and heel pain.
Key Features:
- Awesome performance and good lifestlye pair in one
- CushIon foam for maximum flexibility
- Features FlyMesh upper for comfort and breathability
Specification:
Pros
- Wide range of color options
- Offers impressive comfort and breathability
- Very versatile, great for all day wear, for sports and casual wear
- Good reflectivity
Cons
- Can be a bit pricey for some
- Some runners say that the cushioning can be too hard
- Size discrepancies
7
Nike Dual Fusion Run 3
When it comes to Nike plantar fasciitis shoes you will be hard pushed to find anything better than the Dual Fusion Run 3. Available in both men’s and women’s versions, these overpronation running shoes fit true to size and allow for an utmost comfortable running or walking experience. Made of breathable synthetic and mesh uppers with a rubber sole, there is also a lightweight firm phylon carrier and soft interior phylon core, with a perfect midsole that creates a gently cushioned ride.
Key Features:
- Suitable for neutral runners
- Openly constructed upper materials
- Midsole of the shoes is made from dual-density and sturdy foam
Specification:
Pros
- Great and appealing design
- Versatile functionality
- Affordable and great quality
- Impressive durability
Cons
- Not very flexible, too rigid for some
- Toe box can be too narrow for some
- Size discrepancies
8
Saucony Kinvara 6
Whether you’re after a pair of the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis or for general everyday walking, don’t overlook the Saucony Kinvara 6. Not only do these sneakers look awesome, they are highly respected among their verified owners who suffer from various other problems such as fallen arches or severe heel pain, and require specialist shoes for flat feet. This range has become immensely popular due to its ability to offer smooth transitions whilst keeping your feet secure and aligned. Due to continued innovation and development taking place over the years the Saucony Kinvara 6 is a fully equipped for all rounder.
Key Features:
- Great for long distance running
- Utilizes FlexFilm Overlay system
- Features RunDry Collar lining and Comforlite sockliner
Specification:
Pros
- Reasonable and great price
- Impressive comfort, even when used for long period of time
- Very lightweight materials and construction
Cons
- Not very durable
- Not very flexible
- Toe box can be too narrow for most users
9
Saucony Guide 9
Reading any of our top 10 running shoe reviews will tell you that Saucony is a company very well-known for designing and manufacturing some of the best sneakers of all time. The Guide 9 is created using an imported synthetic fabric. The rubber sole works to create stable footing for the wearer whilst the mesh material of the upper is supported using an exo-skeletal system. These sneakers will not only help with plantar fasciitis pain but will also get you out running on the road in no time. This variant comes in seven different color variations so you are sure to be wearing the best shoes for plantar fasciitis whilst showing off your personality.
Key Features:
- Responsive and reliable materials and components
- Features EVERUN cushioning materials
- Flex-Film no sew overlays for maximum comfort and support
Specification:
Pros
- Vibrant and good-looking color schemes
- Impressive stability and durability
- Wide toe box to accommodate natural toe splaying
Cons
- The upper fabric is not very sturdy
- The interior materials tend to cause irritation for some
Best Work Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
1
Naturalizer Naomi Block Heel Pumps
Some office workers out there might need to be wearing a bit of heels on Mondays, the Naturalizer Naomi pumps is perfect for every uniform or corporate wear on any day. The heels of these Naomi pumps are not high enough and can actually help in some cases of plantar fasciitis. If you worry about foot pains because of high heels, worry not when it comes to the Naturalizer pumps. These pretty pumps feature Naturalizer’s patented N5 Comfort technology, so it has extra cushioning to absorb shock and distribute pressure, and the heel shape is designed for stability and a secure fit. They have wide heel support and a solid and comfortable base, so you can wear these pretty pumps without further aggravating your foot pain. When it comes to style and appearance, this pair also never disappoints. These pumps are not just comfy but are very pretty as well. Women who have been wearing pumps by Naturalizer constantly shares their daily dose of the compliments they get because of the shoes. So if you want to enjoy a block style and appropriately-sized heel with a rounded toe box and a stylish pair, get a pair of Naturalizer Naomi shoes now.
Key Features:
- Fashionable round toe for classic and comfortable look
- Features N5 comfort system equipped with padded socks for comfort
- Block heels for easy walking
Specification:
Pros
- Fashionable, stylish and very versatile
- Fits true to size
- Impressive stability and secure fit
- Classic color options
Cons
- Limited color options
- Toe box can be too narrow for some
2
Vionic Women’s Spark Minna Ballet Flat
Every footwear from Vionic has been known to work great even on persons who have a couple of feet problems. The Spark Minna ballet flat looks elegant enough to be worn at work and super comfortable for everyday casual wear. These high-quality flats are loved by all the women who never liked wearing heels, despite the simplicity of these flat shoes, the extremely look elegant and fashionable. It also has a removable cushion foot bed for added comfort. It is nice to know that these particular pair of flats by Vionic is actually really made for those people with plantar fasciitis and other issues. The Vionic Spark Minna ballet flats also come in a wide range of colors and patterns that you can easily choose from. This pair is truly wonderfully made with both style and comfort in mind.
Key Features:
- Features firm yet flexible exteriors
- With biomechanical design for extreme safety and comfort
- Recommended by podiatrists
- Clinically approved design
Specification:
Pros
- Stylish and sophisticated designs and color schemes
- Durable and sturdy materials
- Works well for women with foot issues and pain
- Solid but flexible footbed
Cons
- Requires longer period of breaking in
- Discrepancies in sizing
- High maintenance footwear
3
Dr. Comfort Wing Men’s Therapeutic Shoe
This dress shoe by Dr. Comfort is a truly a crowd favorite. The Dr. Comfort Wing therapeutic shoes can be easily paired with any casual to formal wear and you’ll instantly look spiffy and smart. It is a very lightweight pair that offers both comfort and style. A timeless classic is surely what everyone admires that is why this pair has been topping the therapeutic shoe industry for long. When it comes to quality, we assure you that this pair of classy footwear is well-made not just based on style but also comfort. The shoe exterior is made of a sleek, polished leather surface and a moccasin toe with beautifully invisible stitch detail. When it comes to being an ultimate lightweight, the Dr. Comfort Leader Dress Shoe is a definite stand-out with the lightest, excellent quality materials. For added and superior comfort, this comes with gel inserts and convenient closure for super easy adjustment. Even with the finest leather craftsmanship, this particular shoe is fully breathable to wick away moisture from your feet. From the inside, you get to enjoy a padded leather lining that helps your feet stay comfortable, dry, fresh and free from friction and injuries.
Key Features:
- Built with comfort and versatility in mind
- Made with durable full-grain leather
- Removable insoles
- Protective toe box and firm heel counter
Specification:
Pros
- Impressive comfort and functionality
- Available in different widths
- Roomy toe-box
Cons
- Very limited color options
- Not very stylish
4
Vionic Men’s Preston Loafer
As said earlier in this post, the shoes from Vionic will never disappoint. Most especially this great work shoes for men, the Preston loafer. This pair is podiatrist-designed and made to address an ever-expanding array of foot and leg problems for all men out there. It features its fine premium leather exterior and a lightly padded top line to protect sensitive feet from chaffing, also its deep heel cups helps best when it comes to foot realignment. This is indeed an orthopedic work of art created with an ultimate form of protection and support your feet will ever need. Additionally, this this moc toe loafer is brilliantly made with lightweight and flexible EVA mid-sole for added comfort and superior shock absorption upon impact. There is surely no foot issue that the Preston loafer can never resolve, so why don’t you give it a try?
Key Features:
- Crafted from premium leather
- Features removable leather-covered EVA footbed
- Podiatrist-designed construction and technology
Specification:
Pros
- Great for casual and semi-formal looks
- Impressive comfort, heel-support, and stability
- Can relieve foot pains
- Easy to wear
Cons
- Discrepancies in sizing
- Limited color options
Best Walking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
1
New Balance 928v2
The New Balance 928v2 are quite possibly the most comfortable walking shoes for plantar fasciitis in their product range. They are known to offer utmost stability and cushioning thus considered one of the best shoes for overpronation even after mile upon mile of usage. The subtle design looks great and comes in 4 colors to choose from. This model has been around for a number of years but it continues to gain popularity with those experiencing some type of foot arch pain or abnormal gait. The advanced stabilizing rollbar technology is amazingly supportive, and the midfoot cushioning never fails to deliver it’s purpose; the MW928v2 was designed with lateral stability and comfort in mind, which it does very well from the heel to toe box.
Key Features:
- ABZORB unit to significantly reduce shock on midfoot while running
- Features Ndurance rubber
- Delivers all-day comfort and motion control
Specification:
Pros
- Very comfortable
- The soles provide a stable platform for both walking and running
- Works great for people with neuropathy, arthritis, bone spurs, and other foot issues.
Cons
- There were issues regarding the size and fit
- The style and design of this pair is not very appealing
- Tongue is too short and narrow
2
Orthaheel Walker Athletic
The podiatrist designed Orthaheel motion control shoes force the overpronator to stand and walk correctly which makes it ideal for improving balance and abnormality of gait. The antibacterial removable orthotic inserts have contoured arch support, and a heel cup which realigns the stride, all of which help to allow for walking without discomfort. They have shock absorbing soles and a tough leather upper providing strong support where it’s most needed, adding quality and therapeutic benefit to the overall structure of these sneakers. Armed with an American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) seal of approval, the Orthaheel is one of the best walking shoes for plantar fasciitis to date.
Key Features:
- An amazing all-purpose walking shoes
- Features full-grain leather uppers with lightweight EVA midsole
- Podiatrist-developed
Specification:
Pros
- Available in various widths and half sizes
- Increased stability and support
- Durable rubber outsole with good traction
Cons
- Limited color options
- Bulky design
3
Vionic Kona
The Kona was created by Vionic, a company that specializes in medically supportive shoes. It was manufactured using an imported synthetic material offering these orthotic shoes which fit like a glove, making them perfect for natural foot alignment and with padding that has pain relieving properties. The sole was made using well-gripping rubber material for superior traction. As you’d expect, this shoe was created to offer a quality of support that would only be beaten by the level of comfort it offered, and the one word that keeps coming up is comfortable. Vionic made these available in 4 color variations including navy/coral, grey/lime, black/fuchsia, and white/blue.
Key Features:
- Features EVA midsole
- Improved tread
- Features Active Motion System technology
Specification:
Pros
- Impressive durability
- Very comfortable
- Available in various widths and sizes
Cons
- Not very stylish
- Limited color options
Best Sandals For Plantar Fasciitis
1
Orthofeet Sarasota
Orthofeet created the Sarasota using supportive leather that functions by offering a contoured fit. The insole molds to the arch of the user’s feet providing an amazing amount of enhanced structural support and comfort. This helps to relieve pain in the feet often associated with plantar fasciitis or overpronation. The outsole was created using air cushioning that works with a technology called the Ergonomic Stride to increase the amount of overall support, gait and motion control offered by the Sarasota. Not only are these award winning orthopedic shoes designed for overpronating women with plantar fasciitis but also for those who suffer from heel, foot, arch, and knee pain. It is offered in three color variations including black, tan, and bronze
Key Features:
- Features protective interior and comfortable support
- Stretchable and non-binding
- Made with high-quality materials
Specification:
Pros
- Excellent comfort and great fit
- Ergonomic and orthotic friendly design
- Adjustable fit
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Limited color options
- Needs a couple of time to break in
2
OOFOS OOriginal
OOFOS is on the list again for designing another pair of good flip flops for plantar fasciitis. This time though they created an ultra-comfortable thong flip flop that is made of imported synthetic materials. The height of the sole measures at one inch and the raised rocker type design improves motion control and gait whilst reducing overpronation and pressure on the sensitive areas of the foot. It offers a basic yet elegantly molded and textured foot bed that also offers an incredible amount of supportive comfort. The sole is also created of synthetic material too. OOFOS offers these flip flops five different color variations including red, slate, violet, mocha, and even cloud white.
Key Features:
- Features OOFoam, their awesome proprietary foam
- Good recovery sandal
- Shower ready and can be machine-washed
Specification:
Pros
- Impressive arch support
- Great shock-absorption
- Easy to clean
- Enables natural motion
- Anti-odor
Cons
- Bulky design
- Not very stylish for some
- Limited color schemes and options
3
Vionic Orthaheel Tide II
Vionic is on the list again this time offering the Tide II, an incredibly comfortable pair of sandals for plantar fasciitis. You want to talk about color variations; this one comes in a ridiculous amount of color at 27 different choices. Vionic created these orthotic sandals using an imported synthetic rubber sole and with the intent that you can wear them all day long with little or no pain at all. The specific purpose of these are to reduce the amount of stress felt upon the wearer’s feet due to the EVA lightweight rubber material of the midsole functions to absorb shock.
Key Features:
- Features Vio-Motion support
- Durable TPR outsole
- Flexible and shock-absorbing EVA midsole
Specification:
Pros
- Effectively alleviates heel pain
- Foam-lined strap for comfort and great fit
- Comes in various widths and sizes
Cons
- Takes a while to dry
- Produces squeaky sound when walking on wet surface
- Comes in bigger sizing
Selecting The Best Plantar Fasciitis Shoes
There are plenty of exercises and ways of preventing inflammation but knowing which footwear works well to alleviate stress on the ligament is important. Below we discuss what to look out for when buying any kind of good shoes for plantar fasciitis pain:
The Shoes To Choose
Generally, when choosing appropriate shoes for plantar fasciitis, the pair must have all or most of the following characteristics and features:
- Appropriate and great arch support to avoid related injuries!
- A broad and comfortable heel base to effectively absorb shock
- Lighter designs are recommended, to avoid heavy shoes
- Removable insoles
- Back straps for better support
- Deep heel cup
- Appropriately wide toe boxes
- Contoured and cushioned comfortable footbeds
- Flats, or heels of no more than two to three inches. High heels and stilettos are not ideal.
- Efficient rocking motion technology to reduce heel stress
Running Shoes
In general it’s usually the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis from top brands such as the ones reviewed below which tend to manufacture the most purchase worthy. They have invested big money on research and manufacturing their product to provide protection against high impact usage which will in turn provide padding, good arch support, and optimal shock absorption where it matters. Each of the shoe reviews below go into more depth on how they benefit people with symptoms.
Motion Control Shoes
Motion control shoes are ones which are durable and rigid with the purpose of limiting inward rolling of the foot which is known as overpronation. They are perfect for improper foot alignment due to the ability to realign the foot to a natural position which reduces gait abnormalities, and the possibility of wear to other body parts like the knees, hips and lower back. Normally you wouldn’t easily be able to identify motion control shoes just by looking at their exterior, so it’s worth checking the specification to ensure it caters for this need.
Shoes With Arch Support
The best shoes for plantar fasciitis and overpronation are ones with good arch support. Look out for shoes which place extra emphasis on this. It’s important that the medial arch doesn’t become flat else ligament strain will occur midfoot and in other places which will in turn lead to increased pain in the feet. Usually the manufacturer will emphasize the technology or design efforts used to address this characteristics, which most commonly achieved using custom patents.
Heel Cushions
Good heel cushions which provide adequate padding and support is ideal. Many orthotic shoes have state of the art gel cushioning which reduces shock during high pressure impact, and normal usage such as continual walking or running.
Removable Orthotic Inserts
As orthotics are to be worn throughout the duration of your treatment, this characteristic is one which cannot be neglected. When you visit a podiatrist they will almost certainly ask you to buy orthotic friendly shoes, which mean if it has removable insoles it’s a bonus because they can be swapped out for the recommended orthotic inserts if the default doesn’t quite fit or perform as expected. Also, if the original becomes too worn you can buy specialist insoles to replenish the interior if the exterior is still in good enough condition to keep.
Tough and Durable
The best plantar fasciitis shoes will have minimal bend or twist in the midsole like work boots. Too much flexibility gives way to overpronation which is not good. The overpronator will find more comfort from a relatively stiff mold as opposed to flexible.
The Shoes To Avoid
Cheap Alternatives
Avoid buying cheap shoes. It’s not so much the price we’re concerned about because sales occur all the time, it’s the overall quality of budget shoes we’re referring to. A number of the options we review below may be some of the most expensive shoes in this niche but there is a valid reason. In reality you really do get what you pay for, and paying for cheapest is not going to help.
Too Soft
Ones which are too flexible should be avoided because they fail to provide the stability and support required to qualify a title as good shoes for overpronation. Valid examples would be materials such as canvas and cheap leather, these should be avoided at all cost.
Don’t Be Fooled By Looks
There is plenty of good looking footwear on the market ranging from the Medusa clad Versace sneakers to design aplenty Nike Air Max 90’s. However looks should come second in this scenario so don’t prioritize fashion; function comes first.
Conclusion
Not everyone’s circumstances are the same; not everyone experiences the same amount of stress to the fascia ligament and each person has their own pain threshold. Each person may have different lifestyle or habits which is invoking the condition. However, one thing for certain though is ensuring you have the correct sneakers at your ready means whichever scenario or category you find yourself in you’ll have no problems to combat and alleviate whatever is causing pains. We’ve discussed above based on expert and user reviews some of the best shoes for plantar fasciitis and overpronation, however it’s your choice now based on budget and design because ultimately they are all cherry picked and top rated which are renowned for being fit for purpose.