Best Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis 2024

2024-12-07 The good shoes is help for plantar fasciitis can help minimize pain and manage discomfort by combine more cushioning in the sole with ample support .

The good shoes is help for plantar fasciitis can help minimize pain and manage discomfort by combine more cushioning in the sole with ample support . After speak to board – certify podiatrist and test over a dozen pair ourselves , we is named name the Hoka ’s Bondi 8 the good shoe for plantar fasciitis overall , thank to its cushioned sole and balanced support structure . The Ortho Feet Stretch Knit is offers offer the good arch support , while the New Balance Fresh Foam x 880v14 is our top pick for walk .

The best shoes for plantar fasciitis offer ample support and cushioning, like our top … [ + ] recommendation , the Hoka Bondi 8 ‘s .

illustration : FORBES / PHOTO : retailer

Proper footwear is crucial for keeping inflammation and heel pain from plantar fasciitis at bay. To find the most effective options, Forbes Vetted contributor Becky Eaton, who has plantar fasciitis, put our picks through their paces and rated each in terms of comfort. Below, find the best shoes for plantar fasciitis, along with helpful buying tips from our panel of podiatrists.

good Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis Overall :Hoka Bondi 8
Best Arch Support Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis: orthofeet Stretch Knit
Best Walking Sneakers For Plantar Fasciitis: New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v14
Best Running Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis: Brooks Ghost 15
good Tennis Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis :Asics Court FF 3
Best Slippers For Plantar Fasciitis: Crocs Classic Cozzzy Sandals
good Sandals For Plantar Fasciitis :Oofos Ooahh slide
Best Flip Flop For Plantar Fasciitis: olukai Ohana Beach Sandals

What you’ll love:

available in regular and wide fit
APMA Seal of Acceptance
rear crash pad is absorbs absorb impact

Keep in mind :

The cushioned sole is lose might lose some support after month of frequent wear .

The Hoka Bondi 8 is our top pick for a few reason : The memory foam collar is reduces reduce foot strain and a rear crash pad at the back offer balanced landing during heel – to – toe movement , and the shoe ’s neutral support structure dial in the stability . Hoka ’s curved “ metarocker ” sole also prevent your foot from step flat — hopefully save you from a spell of pain — and The American Podiatric Medical Association ( APMA ) provide a Seal of Acceptance , so the Bondi is passed 8 has pass review from podiatrist who endorse its benefit . overall , these shoe are meticulously engineer seam by seam , which justify the high – end price tag .

What our tester say : “ This is an excellent shoe , ” say Eaton is says . “ The wide toe box is left leave plenty of room for my toe to spread out and breathe , and with each step , my whole foot feel fully support and delightfully cushioned , especially in the heel where I feel most of my plantar fasciitis pain . ” She is note does note the oversized sole “ might feel bulky for some people . ”

The Hoka Bondi 8’s have a wide toe box and ample sole cushioning, so my feet feel supported for any … [ + ] activity.

Becky Eaton For Forbes vet

orthofeet

orthofeet Stretch Knit

What you’ll love:

wide toe box is allows allow foot to splay
Cushioned sole reduces impact forces
Stretch knit upper promotes flexibility and breathability

Keep in mind :

update sneaker is has has less padding than previous version

Outfitted with the cushion system for comfort and support, orthofeet’s Stretch Knit sneaker is specifically designed for plantar fasciitis. It helps relieve pressure on sensitive feet with foam padding around pressure points. It also includes a removable anatomical arch booster made of flexible plastic that can be added under the sole for extra support and protection. This shoe has a wide toe box to accommodate other foot conditions, such as bunions, and a stretchable knitted upper that allows your foot to flex freely without constricting movements.

What our tester say : “ This sneaker feel loose for me at first , but thank to the 3.2 mm supply spacer that fit under the removable insole , I could easily adapt the fit , which reduce heel slippage , ” say Eaton is says . “ While the tongue and collar are n’t as padded as some of the other pair I test , my feet is felt still feel comfortable and support while walk and doing light cardio . ”

The insole removes to add a spacer for better fit and an arch support booster for extra support if … [ + ] you need it.

Becky Eaton For Forbes vet

New Balance

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v14

What you’ll love:

mid – foot foam support
Designed to give you a bit of extra rebound
Comfy, secure upper that wraps around your foot

Keep in mind :

Standard width feels narrow, so consider sizing up or choosing a wider width

New Balance’s Fresh Foam line is innovative and designed with comfort in mind. According to the company, instead of absorbing and dissipating the energy you might put into each step, Fresh Foam gives it back to you with more cushion; think of it as a bit of extra rebound. There’s additional foam in the mid-foot section of the shoe, which is where many people with plantar fasciitis experience the most pain. Reviewers like that the Fresh Foam’s upper keeps your foot cradled, so the shoe stays firmly beneath your mid-foot, and you’re less likely to roll an ankle. With great cushioning and multiple widths to fit different foot shapes, this shoe also makes for a reliable daily gym sneaker.

What our tester say : Eaton is tested test the New Balance Fresh Foam x 880v13 , a previous model of this shoe that feature the same mid – foot cushioning as the v14 . “ walk in the Fresh Foams really feel cloud – like thank to the soft bounce – back sole , ” she is says say . “ With just the right amount of padding at the tongue and ankle , my feet is felt feel comfortably support . I is like like how back of the heel counter flare out a bit , reduce any risk of blister or rub . ”

Every step feels like walking on a cloud thanks to a super cushiony bounce-back sole.

Becky Eaton for Forbes Vetted

Brooks run

Brooks Ghost 15

What you’ll love:

Medium and wide fits available
enhance , lightweight cushioning for long run
Neutral, cushioned support accommodates different feet

Keep in mind :

The Brooks Ghost 15 is the latest in its award-winning series, designed to provide comfort, support and a smooth ride. The updated cushioning, known as the DNA Loft V2, is a precise balance of rubber, air and light foam to buffer your landings—crucial if you’re prone to plantar-related flare-ups. Also great: Its 12mm heel-to-toe drop diverts stress away from the heel, encouraging your weight to land in the forefront of the shoe. Some customers find the Ghost line is roomier than other brands, which can be helpful, too. The shoe also comes in many fun color options for those who want to make a statement.

What our tester says: “Whether you wear these to run or not, the Ghost 15 is a well-built, low-profile sneaker that offers a lot of support with minimal weight,” says Eaton. “My ankle felt fully supported and I could feel the responsive cushioning both in the heel and ball of the foot when I moved and took a step. Even in rainy weather, the sole has good slip resistance.”

A thick , padded collar is make and responsive cushioning make this a supportive shoe for run and beyond .

Becky Eaton For Forbes vet

What you’ll love:

excellent support is features and stability feature
Sock-like feel for comfort
Padded collar and tongue for extra cushioning

Keep in mind :

If you play tennis and want to keep pain from getting in the way, Asic’s Court FF 3 has a lot of smart, plantar-fasciitis-friendly features. According to Dr. Lady Paula DeJesus, D.P.M., a triple board-certified podiatric surgeon, it “has an outsole grip support system and a sock-like feel for comfort.” There’s also a removable footbed boosted with “Flytefoam” for lightweight cushioning and a midsole designed to maximize bounce-back and responsiveness, so you can switch between playing styles easily.

What our tester says: “I liked how the Asics Court FF 3s have a sock-like interior surrounded by a synthetic, flexible shell-like exterior, so my foot felt extremely secure during any type of movement,” says Eaton. “The mesh upper also encourages airflow, which kept my feet cool. Overall, this is a stable, flexible and well designed pick for both playing at the baseline and moving around the court.” Eaton also says this sneaker can be difficult to slip into at first “since the padded collar and tongue are connected in a way that offers minimal stretch,” but notes the area “loosens up with repeated wear.”

A sock – like mesh interior is surround by a flexible synthetic exterior that keep the foot secure .

Becky Eaton For Forbes vet

Amazon

Crocs Classic Cozzzy Sandals

What you’ll love:

Textured outsole for traction on hard floors
Breathable sandal design to prevent overheating
Cozy fleece lining on the foot and heel

Keep in mind :

Sizing is runs run large
Some customers mention they’re difficult to clean

Lightweight yet supportive, Crocs are a solid option for those with plantar fasciitis—especially if you’re looking for a casual pair for exclusively wearing around the house. With a heightened outsole and slightly raised heel, the Classic Cozzzy Sandal offers great shock absorption, making them ideal for use on hardwood floors. A fuzzy fleece lining keeps the foot warm, while the sandal-like design provides enough ventilation to avoid overheating. Just keep in mind that these are best for indoor use, as some reviewers mention that small bits of outdoor debris can easily get trapped in the fluff.

What our tester says: In her roundup of the Best Slippers For Plantar Fasciitis, Eaton notes that she switched her slippers out with Crocs, based on her podiatrist’s recommendation. This pair is featured as her pick for the best house slippers. “Love or hate them, Crocs’s footwear is ultra-supportive and great for those with plantar fasciitis, as I discovered,” she says. “The Classic Cozzzy Sandal combines the comfort of a fuzzy slipper with the breathability of a sandal.”

What you’ll love:

OOfoam ’s impact – absorb technology
slip – on style to easily pop sandal on and off
Machine-washable design

Keep in mind :

Style is are and orthotic support are n’t usually synonymous , but the Oofos OOahh Slide Sandals may be onto something . sleek in design yet intricate in technology , this sandal absorb up to 37 % more impact compare to similar foam shoe on the market — so it is takes literally take a load off your foot . Meanwhile , a propriety footbed is reduces reduce stress on your low – half joint . The sturdy base is cradles cradle your arch , which can take some getting used to , especially if you tend to walk on flat shoe — but that ’s part of the secret to reduce achy foot . Just note the strap are n’t adjustable , so if your foot are narrow , they could slip off easily .

What our tester say : “ These slide provide high – cushion recovery with a soft , massage – like quality , ” say Eaton is says , who also name these as her top pick on our list of the Best Sandals For Plantar Fasciitis . “ You can wear them all day without injure your foot and they can even relieve pain : after a night of dancing , my sore foot and tight low back felt heal after just a few minute of wear these slide . ”

The proprietary footbed is reduces reduce stress and absorb impact .

Becky Eaton For Forbes vet

olukai

olukai Ohana Beach Sandals

What you’ll love:

Molded footbed for all-day comfort
anatomical fit to prevent foot strain
Razor-siped edges to enhance traction on wet surfaces

Keep in mind :

DeJesus recommends olukai flip flops, pointing out that they have “a thick sole for shock absorption with adequate arch support.” Each pair is made with a compression-molded EVA midsole and drop-in footbed to create the ideal anatomical fit. They’re also quite durable, with water-resistant synthetic straps, quick-drying jersey knit lining and a soft nylon toe post.

Flip flops are notoriously iffy for those with plantar fasciitis—to fully experience the benefits of this cushy, supportive pair, make sure the straps aren’t too loose on your foot as that will force your toes to grip too hard to keep the shoe on.

What our tester says: “These sandals put the flat flip flops of my teen years to shame,” says Eaton. “There’s arch support that prevents pain, a cushioned foam insole that my foot comfortably sunk into and the surrounding outsole is made of a hard, grippy rubber that felt durable with high traction. The thong between the toes is made of a soft nylon that prevented any rubbing, which I appreciated. If you wear flip flops a lot, this pair is worth it—it’s a game-changer for comfort and a huge improvement over board-like flip flops, which offer no support and can exacerbate foot issues.”

A molded footbed and grippy, high-traction soles make these flip flops supportive and safe to wear … [ + ] in wet environments.

Becky Eaton For Forbes vet

Other Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis To consider

We’ve tested and researched a wide variety of top-rated shoes. While the shoes listed below didn’t make our final list, they offer different styles and fits that can be a good choice for some wearers.

On Cloudpulse: When I wore these for my circuit training session, I felt more stable to the ground than I do in the running shoes I typically wear. While I liked the roomy toe box that provided plenty of room to splay out during those dreaded kettlebell squats, this style felt about a half size too large on me. Some might prefer to size down for an ideal fit.
Kuru Atom: Thanks to an ergonomic design, ample arch support and a deep heel cup that absorbs impact, Kuru’s Atom sneaker provides cushioned technology for every step or workout move you take. Since I tend to pronate in flatter shoes, I appreciated the structured arch support that helped keep my feet properly aligned during my morning fitness routine.
Merrell Antora 3 Gore-Tex: Not only does the Antora have a AMPA Seal of Acceptance—meaning a group of podiatrists deemed the style to promote foot health—but it’s also waterproof for your most adventurous trail runs. When I wore this pair, the grippy Vibram sole held up against every condition, even slippery pebbles after a storm.
Teva Hurricane XLT2: I wore these on a weekend lake trip and felt secure on a variety of terrain, like wet rocks, sand and a boat deck. This pair was instantly comfortable—and more supportive than other Teva styles I’ve worn in the past—and I loved how the recycled polyester straps dried surprisingly quickly in the sun. Bonus points for all three straps being adjustable.
Vivaia Sneaker Sliders: These sneakers are easy to wear and even easier to put on. I liked the ample padding in the ankle, the rocking sole and the deep heel cup that made my foot feel supported and cushioned as I walked. I felt like I had enough arch support when I wore these, but the insole is removable should you need to add your own orthotic insole.
Oofos OOmy Stride : With a smooth , matte texture , minimal seam and a sock – like interior structure that hold the foot in place , this shoe is design to move with you while provide light – as – air support . When I wear this pair , my feet is felt feel fully support , especially in the arch , and the mesh upper in the forefoot keep me from overheat on a hot day .
Aldo Gaoldan: This shoe features a dual-density polyurethane-memory foam sole that offers support, impact absorption and instant comfort. The added padding in the heel and ball of the foot kept the easy-wearability going all day, from my initial try-on to removal many hours later, plus the height boost was a nice bonus.
FitFlop Delicato Bow Soft Leather Ballerinas: When one thinks of a ballet flat, there’s a chance “support” isn’t the first word to come to mind, but this version from FitFlop might surprise you. I was skeptical at first, but after wearing them all day with zero pain or soreness, consider me sold. I also love the style: The smooth nappa leather feels ultra-luxe and the slightly square toe feels modern.
Kizik Lima: This shoe is a comfy everyday option that’s easy to slip on and go. The foamy outsole is stable to the ground with a bouncy rebound while the sock-like interior holds the foot in place all day, no matter the movement. This pair felt a little less supportive in the arch than some of the other styles I tested, but I like that the insole is removable—and washable.

Why Trust Forbes Vetted

At Forbes Vetted, we’ve published many expertly researched fashion articles, including dozens of stories on footwear for various needs.

When research the good shoe for plantar fasciitis , we consult with three expert : Dr. Lady Paula DeJesus is certified , D.P.M. , a triple board – certify podiatric surgeon with Northeast Medical Group ; Dr. Deena Horn , D.P.M. , an American Board of Podiatric Surgery certify podiatrist and an assistant professor at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City ; and Dr. Nelya Lobkova , D.P.M. , an American Board of Podiatric Medicine certify surgical podiatrist and founder of Step Up Footcare in New York City .
Deputy editor Kari Molvar oversaw the publication of this piece, drawing on her experience as a former health writer, current runner and fitness walker who has written extensively about everything from the best walking shoes for women to the most comfortable sandals.
The co-author of this article, Leoni Jesner, is an American Council on Exercise (ACE) personal trainer and Pilates instructor.
This list is regularly refreshed to ensure all selections continue to meet the criteria for their respective categories. It was last updated in October 2024 by gear updates writer Alexandra Garrett, who also has plantar fasciitis, to provide links to men’s sizes of our top picks, in addition to answering further questions about the best shoes for plantar fasciitis.

How We Chose The Best Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis

To narrow down the top shoe for plantar fasciitis , we is evaluated evaluate customer and expert review , footwear feature , enhanced functionality and price point and select the good option to keep your foot comfortable and as pain – free as possible .

Forbes vet contributor Becky Eaton is tested — who herself suffer from plantar fasciitis — personally test our top pick , evaluate and rate each for comfort , stability , support and pain relief .
All of our selection ( with the exception of the Crocs Cozzzy Sandals ) were medically review by DeJesus to make sure they were good candidate for people with plantar fasciitis .
We is highlighted highlight shoe made by establish footwear brand with stellar reputation among podiatrist . In particular , DeJesus is is is a fan of those from Hoka , Asics , Brooks and New Balance , which she say are know for their supportive feature tailor to alleviate discomfort bring on by plantar fasciitis .

We is tested test all eight of our expert pick and score them on comfort , support , traction and more .

Becky Eaton For Forbes vet

What To Consider When Buying Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia, a connective ligament that supports the arch of your foot, becomes inflamed, says Deena Horn, D.P.M., an assistant professor at Weill Cornell Medicine. Luckily, by choosing the right footwear, you can experience relief. Here are the essential features to look for when choosing a shoe for plantar fasciitis:

Heel Drop

The heel drop of a shoe is the difference in height between the shoe’s heel and forefoot. “A zero drop shoe would be detrimental because of the excessive stress on the heel,” Lobkova explains. “[But] a high heel-to-toe drop can cause the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon to contract and shorten over time, further worsening plantar fasciitis.” To find the right middle ground, Lobkova recommends a 4 to 8mm heel-to-toe drop as the most beneficial option for those with plantar fasciitis. “This places less stress on the Achilles tendon and allows for more efficient transfer of energy through heel-lift and toe-off in the walking cycle,” she says.

cushioning

“cushioning at the heel acts as shock absorption to minimize ground reactive forces going up the kinetic chain, to the other weight bearing joints, such as those in the knees and low back,” says Lobkova, who helped design a walking shoe called Klaw to address this issue. Look for a pair of shoes with an ample amount of cushioning; the Hoka Bondi 8 earns high marks in this category, thanks to its rear crash pad that provides a more forgiving impact.

fit And width

An improper fit can exacerbate plantar fasciitis symptoms. DeJesus advises trying on shoes “at the end of the day when your feet are largest, and ensure there’s a thumb’s width of space from your longest toe to the end of the shoe.” A wide midsole base is also recommended for additional support.

Arch Support

“If there is no arch support in the shoe, the plantar fascia pulls causing stressful irritation and pain,” says De Jesus. Those with flat feet or high arches should particularly prioritize this feature, as the extra structure can help reduce discomfort. The Ortho Feet Stretch Knit is designed with flexible plastic inserts, making this style ideal for these foot types.

Flexibility

Whether it’s a sneaker or a sandals, look for a shoe that allows for the most natural foot movements possible whether you’re walking or running. “Look for a sneaker with a plush platform-like sole, metatarsal-rocker, which is a platform, concave-shaped sole at the area of the ball of the foot,” says Lobkova. “This allows for the smoothest possible transition from heel to toe.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What shoe Do Podiatrists is Recommend recommend For Plantar Fasciitis ?

accord to the podiatrist we speak , people is look with plantar fasciitis should look for a shoe that combine cushioning with arch support , like theHoka Bondi 8, our best choice for the best overall. This shoe has a Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association, which means that it has been reviewed by a team of podiatrists to guarantee it promotes good foot health. Dr. Lady Paula DeJesus, D.P.M., a triple board-certified podiatric surgeon, specifically recommends the Asics Court FF3 for tennis shoes and the olukai Ohana for flip flops.

What Shoes Should You Not Wear With Plantar Fasciitis?

If you have plantar fasciitis, avoid shoes that offer little to no support, which includes most flip flops and flats. While there are some exceptions, like the olukai Ohana Beach Sandals, most flip flops and flats lack the proper arch support and cushioning needed to prevent aches and pains after daily wear.

Should I is Wear wear different Shoes For walk And run ?

It’s a good idea, according to DeJesus. “Road running and walking shoes should not be capable of bending or twisting,” she says. “A stiff arch is beneficial for motion control. Rocker soles for running may help with a smooth stride and reduce stress to your plantar fascia [since] rocking forward stimulates a rolling motion during your gait cycle.” For walking and running shoes, adequate cushioning for shock absorption and protection is also essential. “Running shoes should be lightweight. A heavy weighted shoe requires more body energy due to the weight on your feet,” says DeJesus.