24 Best Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis in 2024, According to Experts

Podiatrists and physical therapists share the sneakers, sandals, boots, and slippers that’ll keep your feet happy.
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Courtesy of the brands

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If you deal with heel and arch pain related to plantar fasciitis, you know the importance of comfortable footwear. While no shoe is a panacea for the condition, the best shoes for plantar fasciitis can help relieve the tension in your feet and help you avoid frustrating flare-ups in the first place.

“Plantar fasciitis is inflammation and irritation of the plantar fascia, which is a broad ligament-like structure that originates on the bottom of the heel bone and fans out across the arch on the bottom of your foot up to the ball of your foot,” Alicia Canzanese, DPM, ATC, a board-certified podiatrist, athletic trainer, and former collegiate track athlete, tells SELF. “Picture it as a structure that is supporting the arch.”

If this structure is inflamed, you’re likely to feel pain on the bottom of your heel, particularly when you get out of bed or take the first couple of steps after sitting for a while. That first-step stiffness may ease some or significantly as you move around, but then the pain will get worse with increased activity, like continued walking or running, says Dr. Canzanese.

Plantar fasciitis can be caused by all kinds of things, like muscle imbalances and overuse (more on that below), but one common precursor to the condition is doing a lot of activity in inadequate footwear, says Dr. Canzanese. Still, “footwear is only one piece of the puzzle,” she says.

You can have plantar fasciitis with flat feet, high arches, wide feet, narrow feet…the condition doesn’t discriminate. So, Dr. Canzanese points out, it’s important to try many kinds of shoes to find what feels good on your feet and offers the support you need. In other words, there are shoes that are better for plantar fasciitis than others (typically those that have more cushioning in the heel and good arch support), but there isn’t one kind of shoe that’s best for all cases of plantar fasciitis.

To help you figure out what shoe will be best for your unique case, we spoke with physical therapists and podiatrists to learn what to look out for in a good shoe for plantar fasciitis, and found the best options out there for you to try.

Our top picks:
  1. Best Overall: Kuru Quantum 2.0
  2. Runner-Up: Hoka Clifton 9
  3. Best Walking Shoe: Vionic Walk Strider
  4. Best Running Shoe: Asics Gel-Nimbus 26
  5. Best for Standing and Long Distances: Hoka Bondi 8
  6. Best for Wide Feet: Brooks Ghost 15
  7. Best Hiking Boot: Hoka Kaha 2 Gore-Tex
  8. Best Sandal: OOFOS OOahh Slide
In this article
How we made our picks

After hearing from foot health experts, we took a closer look at the shoes they recommended to make sure they had plantar-fasciitis-friendly features like extra padding, sturdy arch support, and securely fitting footbeds. We also consulted with staffers and people who have tried some of these pairs firsthand (foot?) to see how they hold up with regular wear. From there, we highlighted the very best of the best.

The best shoes for plantar fasciitis

Below, you’ll find expert-approved (and, frankly, pretty darn cute) sneakers, dress shoes, sandals, slippers, and removable insoles that’ll make plantar fasciitis sufferers more comfortable.

Best Overall: Kuru Quantum 2.0
  • Kuru

Kuru

Quantum 2.0

Pros
  • Very sturdy and supportive
  • Specifically designed to prevent foot and heel pain
Cons
  • Somewhat heavy

This comfortable walking shoe from Kuru is designed to help alleviate foot pain, including the discomfort that comes with plantar fasciitis. The brand’s patented Kurusole technology hugs and supports your heels and arches to help them better absorb impact from standing and walking.

The previous model of the Quantum was recommended by Bianca Beldini, DPT, a physical therapist, founder of Sundala Wellness, and a USA Triathlon Level One coach in New York City, and the Quantum 2.0 has a similar design. Minor design tweaks that make the latest version the greatest one yet include a wider base and roomier toe box than the first Quantum—these additions also make the 2.0 a good option for folks with issues like bunions.

Product specs

Sizes available: US 5 to 12 | Widths available: medium and wide | Heel-to-toe drop: 8.5 millimeters | Weight: 10.8 ounces | Materials: mesh, synthetic fabric, and rubber | Colors available: 5 options


Runner-Up: Hoka Clifton 9
Pros
  • Surprisingly lightweight
  • Great for long-term wear
  • Very comfortable
Cons
  • May lack some of the support and intentional design of the Quantum 2.0

Hoka shoes have deep heel counters (the part of the shoe that surrounds the back of your foot) and cloudlike cushioning, which makes them feel like a glorious hug. That snug, plush fit makes them some of the best walking shoes for people with plantar fasciitis. Carla Gamez, DPM, a podiatrist at Illinois Bone & Joint Institute (IBJI), recommends the Clifton because of its responsive midsole, which, despite its higher amount of cushion, helps propel you forward as you walk.

The latest version, the Clifton 9, helped alleviate plantar fasciitis pain for SELF’s executive editor: “As someone who has recently started dealing with plantar fasciitis, I’ve tried a lot of sneakers that claim to be comfortable and supportive. I was gifted the Clifton 9s, and they do not disappoint! I actually like them much more than my Clifton 8s, which would still lead to small flare-ups for me. These shoes don’t hurt my feet at all, get me through long walking days in New York City, and are also weirdly cute.” Safe to say it secured its place as her go-to sneaker.

Original photo by SELF health conditions senior writer Katie Camero
Original photo by SELF health conditions senior writer Katie Camero
Product specs

Sizes available: US 5 to 12 | Widths available: regular and wide | Heel-to-toe drop: 5 millimeters | Weight: 7.30 ounces | Materials: mesh, polyester, EVA foam, and rubber | Colors available: 17 options


Best Walking Shoe: Vionic Walk Strider
Amazon

Vionic

Walk Strider Walking Shoes

Pros
  • Very supportive
  • Cute minimalist style
Cons
  • Limited color options
  • May feel too stiff (according to reviewers)

With a sturdy design and a high level of arch support, Vionic’s Walk Strider can help alleviate the stabbing pain of plantar fasciitis, Gigee Bhular, DPM, a foot and ankle physician at Virtua Health in New Jersey, tells SELF. While its rigid midfoot helps prevent rolling, its flexible upper bends with your foot when you’re on the move.

SELF’s commerce director has been putting a pair of the Vionic Walk Striders through its paces the past few weeks and confirms that the sneakers are comfortable right out of the box. “I struggle with new shoes creating ‘hot spots’ and blisters by rubbing on my heels and the sides of my feet—I’m known to bust out the Band-Aids at my desk after commuting into the office. But the Vionic Walk Strider didn’t require any breaking-in time,” she says. “These aren’t the cushiest, bounciest kicks I’ve ever worn, but the arch support helps my former-ballerina feet feel lifted and supported, even after hours on the go.”

Original image by SELF commerce director Abbey Stone
Original image by SELF commerce director Abbey Stone
Original image by SELF commerce director Abbey Stone
Product specs

Sizes available: US 5 to 13 | Widths available: medium and wide | Heel-to-toe drop: 16 millimeters | Weight: N/A | Materials: mesh, leather, nylon, EVA foam, and rubber | Colors available: 2 options


Best Running Shoe: Asics Gel-Nimbus 26
Zappos

Asics

Gel-Nimbus 26

Pros
  • Shock-absorbing design
  • Good for high arches
Cons
  • Some reviewers found the pull-on tabs irritating

Dr. Gamez recommends Asics Gel-Nimbus running shoes for a cushioned ride. This best-selling style is built with gel technology, which absorbs shock as you pound the pavement and thus helps reduce any stabbing pain. It also has a breathable mesh upper for plenty of space through the forefoot and wiggle room in your toes.

One SELF tester who deals with plantar fasciitis loves her pair: “I always wear my Nimbus 26 for recovery runs and on days when my feet could use a little more cushion underneath them. They’re super supportive and hug my high arches. I love that this shoe also comes in solid colorways, making it easier to match them with the rest of my outfit.”

Original image by SELF writer Jenna Ryu
Original image by SELF writer Jenna Ryu
Original image by SELF writer Jenna Ryu
Product specs

Sizes available: US 5 to 13 | Widths available: regular and wide | Heel-to-toe drop: 8 millimeters | Weight: 9.20 ounces | Materials: mesh, foam, and rubber | Colors available: 11 options


Best for Standing and Long Distances: Hoka Bondi 8
Courtesy of Hoka / Amanda K Bailey
Pros
  • Highly cushioned
  • Tons of color options
Cons
  • A little clunky

Hoka, specifically the 2023 SELF Sneaker Award–winning Bondi, is known for its “maximalist” cushioning that delivers a marshmallowy ride without weighing the wearer down too much. All that extra padding makes it one of the best options for people with plantar fasciitis, says Dr. Beldini.

One Sneaker Awards tester happily wore the Bondis through a four-hour concert, and SELF’s manager of social creative development says her pair perfectly suits her feet: “Loving my new Hoka Bondis! I have wide feet and high arches, and they were specifically recommended to me by the employee at my local Fleet Feet store. I tried on a few other pairs of sneakers along with the Bondi 8s, but I just kept coming back to them. They were light on my feet—almost like I wasn’t wearing shoes at all—but also provided strong support around my heels and ankles,” she says. “I was also excited that they came in fun color options. Since most of my workout outfits tend to be in a black and white palette, I went with a bright blue to add a nice pop of color!”

Original photo by SELF contributor Esther Carlstone
Esther Carlstone
Product specs

Sizes available: US 5 to 12 | Widths available: regular and wide | Heel-to-toe drop: 4 millimeters | Weight: 8.90 ounces | Materials: mesh, synthetic fabric, foam, and rubber | Colors available: 21 options


Best for Wide Feet: Brooks Ghost 15
Amazon

Brooks

Ghost 15 Neutral Running Shoe

Pros
  • Ample width options,
  • Plush yet smooth ride
Cons
  • Laces can tend to come untied (according to reviewers)

Erik Sims, DPM, managing partner of Sims & Associates Podiatry in New York, tells SELF that he recommends the Brooks Ghost 15 to patients of all ages, noting that it strikes a good balance between comfort and style. And our 2023 Sneaker Awards tester recommends it to runners of all levels: “I've been running for six years now, have completed many races—including a half marathon—and have never loved a shoe so instantly or easily. I would recommend these to any runner, from the casual jogger to the marathon trainer.”

This pair from Brooks uses a plush, lightweight foam to buoy feet without feeling clunky, and it has ample space through the upper (though it won’t feel like you’re swimming in them). It’s also a good pick for arch pain too, Dr. Sims says. One SELF writer, who has plantar fasciitis, runs in the Ghost 12 (a previous model) regularly. “I recently trained for a half marathon in these, and they’re just an easy pair of running shoes that give me the support I need without feeling at all bulky,” she says. “They have a cushy, bouncy sole, and the upper and tongue are super soft and plush. They felt broken in right away.”

Original photo by SELF contributor Kristin Canning
Original photo by SELF contributor Kristin Canning
Original photo by SELF contributor Kristin Canning
Product specs

Sizes available: US 5 to 13 | Widths available: narrow, regular, wide, and extra wide | Heel-to-toe drop: 12 millimeters | Weight: 8.80 ounces | Materials: mesh, synthetic fabric, foam, and rubber | Colors available: 15 options


Best Hiking Boot: Hoka Kaha 2 Gore-Tex
Amazon

Hoka

Kaha 2 Gore-Tex Hiking Boots

Pros
  • Protective yet lightweight
  • Provides moderate ankle support
Cons
  • On the pricey side

Both Dr. Bhular and Nicholas Japs, DPT, a physical therapist at St. Vincent's Medical Center in Bridgeport, Connecticut, recommend Hoka’s Kaha 2 boot for hikers with plantar fasciitis. They’re chiefly impressed by how light it feels while still providing plenty of cushion, which is a tough balance to strike in a rugged, outdoorsy boot. Dr. Japs also points out its durable treaded outsole and ankle-wrapping cuff, both of which should help you feel more stable on the trail.

Product specs

Sizes available: US 6 to 11 | Widths available: regular | Heel-to-toe drop: 6 millimeters | Weight: 8.50 ounces | Materials: mesh, polyester, Nubuck leather, EVA, and rubber | Colors available: 6 options


Best Hiking Shoe: Danner Trail 2650 Hiking Shoes
REI

Danner

Trail 2650 Hiking Shoes

Pros
  • Lightweight for a hiking shoe
  • Good traction on sole
  • Protective heel cap
  • Durable leather upper
  • Perforations on upper allow for breathability
Cons
  • Not waterproof
  • May not provide enough ankle support for some

These sneakers are the preferred hiking shoes of one SELF writer with plantar fasciitis. “I live in Colorado and I’m hiking or trail running all the time, and I swear by these shoes,” she says. “They hit that sweet-spot where they have enough structure to make me feel supported and secure, and enough flexibility to be comfortable and move with my feet over rocks and roots. I especially appreciate the protective heel cap and good traction. These are the type of shoes you can hike in right out of the box without any stiffness or pain.”

The leather upper holds up well against the elements—it’s not waterproof but it is fairly water- and cold-resistant, and the shoes fit just like a regular running shoe, allowing for plenty of upper foot and ankle mobility, she says. “That’s the type of shoe I prefer to hike in—I can’t stand hiking boots; they feel clunky and restrictive to me—but if you like more support and coverage from mud and rocks, you might prefer something more substantial for the trails. If you like something lighter and more minimalist, this Danner shoe might be your new favorite hiking and trail running sneaker.”

Original photo by SELF contributor Kristin Canning
Original photo by SELF contributor Kristin Canning
Original photo by SELF contributor Kristin Canning
Product specs

Sizes available: US 5 to 11 | Widths available: regular | Heel-to-toe drop: 8 millimeters | Weight: 9 ounces | Materials: suede leather, textile, mesh, EVA foam, TPU, and rubber | Colors available: 5 options


Best Sandal: OOFOS OOahh Slide
Amazon

Oofos

OOahh Slide

Pros
  • Great arch support
  • Ample cushioning
Cons
  • May chafe
  • Not the most stylish option

Not only are these foam-laden sandals approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) for supporting foot health, they also get rave reviews from shoppers. Customers on Zappos compared them to marshmallows and clouds. “I have plantar fasciitis and the minute I put them on I can walk without pain. They are magic slippers” wrote one.

“These squishy sandals are perfect for running errands, going to the beach, camping, or sliding on as a recovery shoe post-run,” says one SELF writer who deals with plantar fasciitis. “It’s hard to find a sandal that doesn’t make my feet hurt after long periods of wear. I have high arches and these provide a comfortable amount of contouring to help them feel properly supported. I bring them on every outdoorsy vacation—it feels SO GOOD to put them on after a hike or bike ride—and I swear by them for any walking around I have to do after a big race. I wore these after the New York City and Chicago marathons when my feet were really struggling, and they felt like a massage for my tired, achy arches. These will be your go-to when you don’t want to lace up but still need that extra support.”

Original photo by SELF contributor Kristin Canning
Original photo by SELF contributor Kristin Canning
Product specs

Sizes available: US 5 to 16 | Widths available: regular | Heel-to-toe drop: N/A | Weight: 4.6 ounces | Materials: Foam and rubber | Colors available: 5 options


Best Hiking Sandal: Teva Verra
Amazon

Teva

Verra Sandal

Pros
  • Supportive yet comfy
  • Great for outdoor adventures
Cons
  • Some reviewers report difficulties with the straps’ Velcro fastenings

This sporty sandal is comfortable, includes arch support, and is easy to clean, Theresa Marko, PT, DPT, MS, owner of Marko Physical Therapy, tells SELF. It’s also a great pick for vacations and hiking trips, according to one SELF staffer: “They take up zero space, they’re SO comfy, and they never smell, even after long days exploring very hot climates.”

The strap system across the top of the foot and around the back of the heel is adjustable for a secure fit around your ankle, even after walking longer distances, Dr. Marko says. Unlike a standard flip-flop—which can exacerbate plantar fasciitis by requiring you to grip your toes in order to keep the shoe on—the backstrap on the Teva Verra keeps your foot comfortably in place, she says.

Product specs

Sizes available: US 5 to 11 | Widths available: regular | Heel-to-toe drop: 9 millimeters | Weight: 7 ounces | Materials: polyester, nylon, EVA foam, and rubber | Colors available: 8 options


Best Dress Shoes: Clarks Torhill Penny Loafer
Clarks

Clarks

Torhill Penny Loafer

Pros
  • Supportive footbed
Cons
  • Somewhat clunky

The Torhill Penny Loafer is a “perfect dress shoe for someone with plantar fasciitis,” according to Dr. Bhular. Not only is it supportive (the footbed is contoured to better fit the shape of your foot), it’s also durable and aesthetically pleasing, he says. To his last point, this is definitely a shoe you can dress up or down.

Product specs

Sizes available: US 5 to 11 | Widths available: regular | Heel-to-toe drop: N/A | Weight: N/A | Materials: Nubuck leather, synthetic fabric and materials, and rubber | Colors available: 3 options


Best Slipper: OrthoFeet Charlotte
Amazon

OrthoFeet

Charlotte Slippers

Pros

  • Warm and fuzzy lining
  • Ample width options

Cons

  • Not particularly stylish

If you have wide feet, this may be the slipper for you. The OrthoFeet comes in three widths, and the orthotic-like inserts provide arch support and foam heel cushioning. “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,” Susan Eby, PT, MS, owner of Eby Physical Therapy in New York City, tells SELF. “The toe box is also extra deep to accommodate any toe issues, with Velcro adjustment to fit this slipper snug to your feet.”

Product specs

Sizes available: US 5 to 12 | Widths available: regular, wide, and x-wide | Heel-to-toe drop: 13 millimeters | Weight: 9.03 ounces | Materials: suede, faux fur, foam, and polyurethane | Colors available: 2 options


Best Insole: Powerstep Pinnacle
Amazon

Powerstep

Pinnacle Insoles

Pros
  • Heel-hugging design
Cons
  • Somewhat pricey for insoles

Dr. Bhular recommends the cushioned Pinnacle from Powerstep as the best insole for plantar fasciitis, in no small part for its supportive heel, which is made to cradle the back of your foot so it stays in place. Its arch is sturdy yet flexible, so it’ll pair well with both your favorite workout sneakers and work shoes.

Product specs

Sizes available: US 5–5.5 to 13–13.5 | Widths available: N/A | Heel-to-toe drop: N/A | Weight: N/A | Materials: polyester and EVA


More footwear and insoles to consider

The following options were also recommended to us by podiatrists, but might not be as universally appealing as the options featured above. Some address additional foot issues like overpronation (when your feet roll inward while you stand or walk), while others don’t meet all of the criteria we took into account (but are still great options if you mainly deal with mild or occasional plantar faciitis flare-ups).

Saucony Echelon 9 Running Shoe
Amazon

Saucony

Echelon 9 Running Shoe

Dr. Sims commonly recommends the Saucony Echelon 9 to people with plantar fasciitis because of its solid support. It’s presented as one of the brand’s “comfort shoes,” meaning it has a thick foam footbed and a snug midfoot to keep your foot well-cushioned and stable. Dr. Sims points out that it’s also compatible with inserts, including bulkier custom orthotics. However, people with narrower feet may find the Echelon too wide.

Product specs

Sizes available: US 5 to 12 | Widths available: regular, wide, and x-wide | Heel-to-toe drop: 8 millimeters | Weight: 9.50 ounces | Materials: mesh, synthetic fabric, and rubber | Colors available: 8 options

Asics Gel-Excite 10
Zappos

Asics

Gel-Excite 10

Dr. Bhular recommends Asics’s Gel-Excite line of running shoes because of their cushioning: Though they’re less padded than the Gel-Nimbus featured above, they have a good amount of foam throughout the sole, and additional gel padding in the middle and rear of the foot, to further soften the impact of your steps.

Product specs

Sizes available: US 5 to 12 | Widths available: regular and wide | Heel-to-toe drop: 8 millimeters | Weight: 9.20 ounces | Materials: mesh, polyester, foam, and rubber | Colors available: 13 options

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 Running Shoe
Amazon

Brooks

Adrenaline GTS 23 Running Shoe

Dr. Japs says that the Adrenaline GTS is another popular Brooks shoe for plantar fasciitis. Its sizable heel-to-toe drop helps shift your weight away from your heel, which should help relieve some pressure and pain, he explains. It also has solid cushioning and support overall.

Product specs

Sizes available: US 5 to 12 | Widths available: narrow, regular, wide, and x-wide | Heel-to-toe drop: 12 millimeters | Weight: 9.10 ounces | Materials: mesh, synthetic fabric, foam, and rubber | Colors available: 26 options

Oofos Original Sandals
Amazon

Oofos

Original Sandals

This cushiony, cloudlike Oofos sandal is a SELF Fave for workout recovery (and just wearing around the house, honestly), thanks to its thick soles and fun range of colors. According to Dr. Marko, it checks some plantar fasciitis boxes, too, like good arch support and heel cushioning. It should be noted, though, that slip-on style shoes can cause you to subconsciously grip your feet, which can lead to foot pain and aggravate plantar fasciitis. For a slimmer profile, try the OOlala sandal (a recommendation from Dr. Sims).

Product specs

Sizes available: US 5 to 16 | Widths available: regular | Heel-to-toe drop: 6 millimeters | Weight: 5.60 ounces | Materials: foam | Colors available: 8 options

Hoka Ora Recovery 3 Slides
Amazon

Hoka

Ora Recovery 3 Slides

Dr. Sims likes the highly cushioned Hoka Ora 3 slide specifically for wearing around the house. He says they’re a great alternative to walking around barefoot, which can be an added strain on your plantar fascia. And we like them because they come in just about every color of the rainbow.

Product specs

Sizes available: US 6 to 15 | Widths available: regular | Heel-to-toe drop: 6 millimeters | Weight: 8 ounces | Materials: foam and EVA | Colors available: 19 options

Vivaia AdaptAll Kiara Sport Sandal
Vivaia

Vivaia

AdaptAll Kiara Sport Sandal

With a rocker sole, grippy outsole, soft, stretchy, adjustable straps, and a thick, contoured footbed, these sandals are perfect for warm-weather outings when you want something casual that’s still cute. Thanks to 33 millimeters of lightweight foam, you’ll have plenty of buffer between you and the ground.

Product specs

Sizes available: US 5 to 11 | Widths available: regular | Heel-to-toe drop: N/A | Weight: 7 ounces | Materials: recycled plastic, EVA foam, rubber | Colors available: 7 options

Dr. Scholl’s Nice Day Max Mary Jane Platform Loafer

Dr. Scholl’s Shoes

Nice Day Max Mary Jane Platform Loafer

Most classic Mary Janes have flat soles and no arch support—a double whammy for folks with plantar fasciitis. But thanks to this sweet pair of platforms from Dr. Scholl’s, you don’t need to sit out the style’s resurgence because of your heel pain. All shoes in the Dr. Scholl’s “Nice Day” line—which includes loafers, Oxfords, and boots alongside the Mary Janes—feature a squishy foam insole that cups your heel and supports your arch.

“Don’t sleep on Dr. Scholl’s,” says SELF’s commerce director. “The brand has long been synonymous with comfort and support, but the latest designs don’t look like your grandma’s orthopedics. While the Mary Janes need a little wearing in—or a pair of socks—I can depend on them to get me to the subway, to work, and to dinner without worrying about sore feet.”

Product specs

Sizes available: US 6 to 11 | Widths available: medium | Heel-to-toe drop: N/A | Weight: N/A | Materials: fabric made partially from recycled plastic, foam, faux leather | Colors available: 3 options

Vionic Chardonnay Heeled Sandal
Vionic Shoes

Vionic

Chardonnay Heeled Sandal

One SELF writer used to walk to work in a very similar pair of Vionic shoes every day, for 30 minutes, without any pain. “I have plantar fasciitis and high arches that need a lot of support, and it’s hard to find heels that don’t totally destroy my feet. The Solana heels (an older model of the Chardonnay) were a game changer for me. I could commute in New York City, and walk around the office all day, with no issues,” she says. These have a 2.5-inch heel and adjustable ankle strap.

Dr. Japs considers the Vionic brand to be “above average in support and comfort,” and this applies to even its dressier shoes. “Sometimes orthopedic shoes aren't the most fashionable, but Vionic does great work,” Dr. Japs says.

Product specs

Sizes available: US 5 to 13 | Widths available: medium, wide | Heel-to-toe drop: N/A | Weight: N/A | Materials: leather or suede, TPR insole, rubber | Colors available: 5 options

Orthofeet Kita Hands-Free Sneaker
Zappos

OrthoFeet

Kita Hands-Free Sneaker

Made to be slipped on without having to bend over or tie the laces, these shoes are a great option for anyone with limited mobility or who’s recovering from an injury. With a wide toe box, ample cushioning, and orthopedic insoles, these shoes are designed to ease arch and heel pain, like that that can come with plantar fasciitis. The knitted mesh upper and mesh lining allow for maximum breathability for sweaty feet too.

Product specs

Sizes available: US 5 to 12 | Widths available: medium, wide, extra-wide | Heel-to-toe drop: N/A | Weight: N/A | Materials: mesh, rubber | Colors available: 3 options

Superfeet Green Professional-Grade Orthotic Inserts
Amazon

Superfeet

Green Professional-Grade Orthotic Inserts

Superfeet’s insoles come highly recommended by podiatrists as great over-the-counter shoe inserts. The green and blue versions have different heel-cup depths and degrees of arch support. The blue ones may be easier to tolerate and get used to, Dr. Marko says.

Product specs

Sizes available: US 4.5–6 to 12.5–14 | Widths available: regular | Heel-to-toe drop: N/A | Weight: N/A | Materials: polyester and foam

Armstrong Amerika Gel Heel Cups Plantar Fasciitis Inserts
Amazon

Armstrong

Amerika Gel Heel Cups Plantar Fasciitis Inserts

Dr. Gamez recommends adding gel heel cups to your less plantar-fasciitis-friendly shoes. These provide support and create a softer footbed to reduce pressure and pain through your heels.

Product specs

Sizes available: small/medium and large | Widths available: N/A | Heel-to-toe drop: N/A | Weight: N/A | Materials: silicone

Dr. Scholl's Plantar Fasciitis Sized to Fit Pain Relief Insoles
Amazon

Dr. Scholl's

Plantar Fasciitis Sized to Fit Pain Relief Insoles

If you’re on your feet for long periods of time, Dr. Japs recommends these reliable insoles from Dr. Scholl’s, which are designed to absorb shock and support your arches. He says that those features should relieve tension in your feet and help you feel more comfortable.

Product specs

Sizes available: US 5.5–6 to 13.5–14 | Widths available: N/A | Heel-to-toe drop: N/A | Weight: N/A | Materials: rubber


FAQs

Want to learn more about plantar fasciitis, including its causes and treatment options? Start here,

What is plantar fasciitis?

Before we get into the causes of plantar fasciitis, it’s helpful to think about the anatomy of the foot region. The plantar fascia is a fascial band or ligament that runs along the bottom of your foot, from the calcaneus, or heel bone, to the base of the toes, Eby says. It helps support the long arch of the foot and provides shock absorption while you walk and run.

Repeated stress on the plantar fascia can cause damage or small tears that may lead to inflammation. Plantar fasciitis often feels like a stabbing or aching pain in the sole of your foot, usually near your heel, which tends to be more intense in the mornings or after you’ve been off your feet for a while. According to the National Library of Medicine, this pain can be constant, but sometimes it’ll abate after you get up and walk around.

What causes plantar fasciitis?

Some factors that can make plantar fasciitis worse include tight calf muscles, repetitive high-impact activities like running, a rapid increase in weight-bearing activity, prolonged standing or walking, and flat feet or very high arches. Your choice of footwear can also be an aggravating factor, whether you’re running, walking, or standing for long stretches of time.

How to choose the best shoes for plantar fasciitis

While no footwear can promise that you’ll stay pain-free, selecting well-cushioned and more supportive shoes is a solid step (heh) toward reducing discomfort in the future. If you’re still on the lookout for the right pair of shoes for you, here’s some criteria to keep in mind while you shop. In general, the best shoes for plantar fasciitis will fit correctly (i.e., not too small and wide enough to fit your foot comfortably) and have the right amount of support. “You'll want a shoe with a deep heel counter and plenty of midfoot arch support,” Dr. Gamez says.

You can consider pairing your shoes with orthotics or insoles that have substantial heel cups to help with cushioning and shock absorption too, Eby says. They’ll also provide additional arch support, which can offer further pain relief from plantar fasciitis, Yolanda Ragland, DPM, a podiatrist and founder of Fix Your Feet in New York City, tells SELF.

What to avoid when buying shoes for plantar fasciitis

Avoid flat, unsupportive footwear like flimsy sandals or backless clogs, Dr. Gamez says. Those cute flip-flops that sell for $10? Probably not the best plantar fasciitis shoes. The same generally goes for sneakers without arch support (unless you add orthotics, heel cups, or insoles), and flats. If you need dressier shoes for work or a special occasion, look for those with a slight heel (around a half inch) to minimize stretching on the plantar fascia, as well as styles that stay on your foot without toe gripping (i.e., one that has elastic or other straps to secure the shoe to your foot).

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