Ouch! Got Plantar Fasciitis? These 25 Pairs of Shoes Can Help Ease Your Pain

Bobbi Dempsey
·12 min read

Get ready to ditch the foot pain.

Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition that can sometimes have a significant negative impact on your quality of life and make it difficult to perform everyday activities—such as taking a short walk—without discomfort. According to Cleveland Clinic, it is the most common cause of heel pain and more than 2 million people are treated for the condition in the U.S. every year.

How To Treat Plantar Fasciitis

Many people can manage their plantar fasciitis symptoms themselves at home. Applying ice to your foot, specifically the heel and arch areas, can help. (An effective technique is to place a frozen water bottle on the floor and roll it beneath the bottom of your foot.) Over-the-counter pain relievers, rest, and limiting the time spent standing on your feet can also speed your recovery. For more serious cases, your doctor may recommend physical therapy or even surgery.

Choosing the Best Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

If you have plantar fasciitis—or want to try and avoid getting it—your footwear can make a big difference. Doctors and physical therapists will often recommend certain brands or types of shoes that are the best choice for plantar fasciitis, and others that you might want to avoid. Adding orthotics and insoles to your (carefully selected) shoes can provide extra support.

Dr. Nelya Lobkova, MD, is an ABPM Certified Surgical Podiatrist and founder of Step Up Footcare. She suggests two things to consider when selecting shoes for plantar fasciitis:

  • The heel counter—the area of the shoe at the back part of the heel—should be solid and supportive. “You can test the shoe to see if the heel counter is firm by attempting to pinch the back of the shoe. This should be very difficult to do if it is firm enough.”

  • Look for shoes with a “rocker” bottom or thick midsole. Dr. Lobkova says these styles provide the sole firmness and midfoot cushioning that can help protect the heel from impact, which is a common source of pain for those with plantar fasciitis. “Test for this by trying to twist the shoe and fold it at the midpoint. Both actions should be hard to do in a shoe with a rigid or rocker midsole.”

Dr. Jacqueline Sutera, MD, is a Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon, owner of City Podiatry, and one of the Vionic Innovation Lab experts. Some of the recommendations she gives her patients with plantar fasciitis include:

  • Avoid walking barefoot at home and instead wear slippers like the Vionic Relax style.

  • Avoid thin, old, flat and worn-out shoes.

  • Alternate shoes throughout the week and even throughout the day. "Have a 'shoe wardrobe.' The body loves variety. Wearing the same shoes all day and every day is not healthy. Switch it up."

  • Don't buy secondhand shoes or borrow shoes from a friend.

Related: Shoppers With Plantar Fasciitis Swear By These Brooks Running Shoes

Here at Parade, we're all about sharing products we love with our audience. When you make a purchase on an item seen on this page, we may earn a commission, however, all picks are independently chosen unless otherwise mentioned. 

Best Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

HOKA Bondi SR $174.99 and up on Amazon

HOKA is known for its high-quality shoes that protect and support your feet through all sorts of outdoor adventures. This model updates the classic Bondi styling—adding water-resistant leather, among other upgrades—and offers the most cushioning of any shoe in their lineup. HOKA Bondi SR, $174.99 and up on Amazon

Famolare Double Vision, $168 on Amazon

Famolare is a shoe brand that was trendy in the 70s, and now the shoes—and their distinctive wavy-sole design—are making a comeback. The retro styling is both fashionable and functional, as the wavy rubber sole spreads pressure points more evenly, which helps absorb shock and lessens foot pain. The brand also makes an assortment of flat sandals that are lightweight and comfy while reducing the impact on your feet. Famolare Double Vision, $168 on Amazon

Birkenstock Arizona Sandal, $84.89 and up on Amazon

Birkenstock is one of the sandal brands Dr. Lobkova recommends for people with plantar fasciitis. Their sandals are made with a cork and latex footbed that has shock-absorbing properties and is flexible enough to hug your feet while still providing essential stability and support. These classic Arizona sandals are one of the brand’s most popular options—and there are also several recently-added variations to this core design. Birkenstock Arizona Sandal, $84.89 and up on Amazon

Orthofeet Francis Sneakers, $132.95 on Amazon

Podiatrists often recommend Orthofeet as a good choice for people with plantar fasciitis, along with diabetes, bunions, and other issues affecting the feet. These Orthofeet Francis model sneakers have extra cushioning in the heel and come with an orthotic insole already inside. Orthofeet Francis Sneakers, $132.95 on Amazon 

Rockport Ridge Circle Sling Slide Sandal, $64.99 and up on Amazon 

Rockport has a wide assortment of styles designed with comfort and foot health in mind, and these fashionable sandals are soft and supportive enough to wear every day. They have a cushy lining and an anatomic footbed that provides stability without making you feel constricted. Rockport Ridge Circle Sling Slide Sandal, $64.99 and up on Amazon

ASICS Gel-Kayano 29 Running Shoes,  $159.95 on Amazon

These Gel-Kayano 29 sneakers from ASICS are a great option for runners who are prone to plantar fasciitis or other foot issues. They have an 8mm heel drop and a redesigned external heel counter, along with LITETRUSS technology that provides enhanced medial and midfoot support. ASICS Gel-Kayano 29 Running Shoes, $159.95 on Amazon

Related: The 9 Best Slippers With Arch Support

Aerosoles Betunia Loafer, $99 and up at Aerosoles

These Betunia loafers from Aerosoles are packed with the comfort features for which the brand is known. The shoe has a flat heel and is comfortable yet supportive enough to wear all day and night. One reviewer noted, “the cushion makes walking a dream.” This style is available in a variety of colors and designs, including faux suede, leopard print, and quilted leather—and the brand also has a wide range of other models, so there are sure to be some that fit your style. Aerosoles Betunia Loafer, $99 and up at Aerosoles 

OOFOS OOAHH Luxe Slide Sandal, $74.95 on Amazon 

OOFOS shoes are made from a proprietary, closed-cell foam material the company calls OOfoam. It’s super light and breathable yet provides impressive impact-absorbing properties that reduce the strain on your feet and joints. These Luxe Slide Sandals are upgraded for enhanced support and maximum comfort. Be sure to check out the brand’s wide variety of clogs, slippers, boots and other styles—including some new and limited-edition designs. OOFOS OOAHH Luxe Slide Sandal, $74.95 on Amazon

Reebok Floatride Energy Symmetros, $139.95 on Amazon 

These Floatride Energy Symmetros 2 sneakers from Reebok are one of your best options from the brand’s lineup if you have plantar fasciitis. They have a 10mm heel drop, which is the standard recommended by many foot experts, and the “roll geometry” is engineered to reduce strain and impact. Reebok Floatride Energy Symmetros 2, $139.95 on Amazon 

ERGOfoot Orthotic Slippers, $42.99 on Amazon

People with plantar fasciitis are advised to avoid walking barefoot whenever possible, so it can be helpful to have one or two pairs of foot-friendly slippers handy for walking around in the house. These ERGOfoot slippers are a wise choice, as they have great arch support, an orthopedic footbed and a deep heel cup. ERGOfoot Orthotic Slippers, $42.99 on Amazon

PF Flyers Premium Suede All American Hi Top $75 at PF Flyers

If you think trendy shoes and skater-style sneakers are off-limits for those with plantar fasciitis, you need to check out PF Flyers. All of their shoes feature the brand’s signature Posture Foundation insert for support, comfort, and stability. They have a variety of cool unisex styles—and be sure to check out their new female-focused Allston line that was just launched. PF Flyers Premium Suede All American Hi Top, $75 at PF Flyers 

White Mountain Gracie Leather Footbeds Sandal, $22.25 and up on Amazon 

These Gracie leather sandals from the White Mountain Footbeds Collection have a contoured, molded footbed and a heel cup, making them a great choice for those with plantar fasciitis. They are sturdy yet super comfortable, so you can wear them all day or for long walks and your feet will still feel terrific. Available in a range of colors and styles, they are affordable enough that you can stock up on several different pairs. White Mountain Gracie Leather Footbeds Sandal, $22.25 and up on Amazon 

KURU Atom Sneaker, $160 at KURU

KURU has an entire section of its website dedicated to plantar fasciitis and spotlighting its best offerings for those with the condition. A smart pick: the Atom style, the brand’s most popular sneaker. Sporting an athletic design, the Atom also features the thickest KURUCLOUD midsole of the company’s lineup—meaning it delivers the cushioning comfort you want and the stability you need. KURU Atom Sneaker, $160 at KURU 

New Balance Made in USA 990 V5 Sneaker, $184.90 and up on Amazon

New Balance is well-known for producing high-quality sneakers, but some of their styles don’t provide the rigid support needed by those with plantar fasciitis. The company’s Made in USA line, though, does check the essential boxes. Dr. Lobkova says, “this is a walking sneaker with a firm heel counter, rigid midsole, and substantial cushioning under the heel.” New Balance Made in USA 990 V5 Sneaker, $184.90 and up on Amazon 

Crocs LiteRide 360, $30.38 and up on Amazon 

Healthcare workers and others who spend long days on their feet often sing the praises of Crocs, and many of the brand’s styles can also bring relief to those with plantar fasciitis. These unisex LiteRide 360 clogs are a good option—they have soft, lightweight foam insoles and just the right amount of support. Crocs LiteRide 360, $30.38 and up on Amazon

Related: 17 Best Walking Sandals for Women

Vionic Rejuvenate Recovery Sandal, $79.95 on Amazon 

These Vionic sandals are the perfect “recovery” shoe to help your feet relax and bounce back at the end of a long day at work, after an intense workout – or even following surgery. Like all Vionic shoes, they feature the brand’s “Three Zone Comfort Technology,” which combines arch support, enhanced side walls for ultimate cushioning, and a deep-seated heel cup for maximum support. Vionic Rejuvenate Recovery Sandal, $79.95 on Amazon 

PUMA ForeverRUN NITRO, $150 at PUMA

PUMA recently unveiled a new addition to its RUN PUMA lineup, the ForeverRUN Nitro. The brand says this model “ushers in a new era of stability shoes by encouraging an optimal running stride.” And if you think the term “stability shoes” means boring and drab, you haven’t checked out these sleek and stylish looks. They’re also strategically designed—a test group of dozens of runners gave the shoes rave reviews for being soft and responsive. PUMA ForeverRUN NITRO, $150 at PUMA 

Naot Kayla Sandals, $139.95 at Naot 

Naot is a brand known for producing handmade Israeli shoes in an ethical and sustainable way. All of their styles feature a cork & latex footbed that conforms to the unique shape of your foot, wrapped with a soft suede lining. This Kayla sandal is one of their most popular designs—it’s American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) accepted for promoting good foot health and is available in more than two dozen colors and styles. Naot Kayla Sandals, $139.95 at Naot  

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22, $139.95 and up at Amazon

Podiatrists frequently cite Brooks as a good choice of sneakers for those with plantar fasciitis, and these Adrenaline GTS 22 running shoes feature the essential support you need, thanks to the 100% DNA LOFT midsole. DNA LOFT is the brand’s signature soft midsole cushioning, which combines EVA foam, rubber, and air. The design promotes comfortable strides and enables easy and smooth step transitions. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22, $139.95 and up at Amazon

KURU Coda Muse, $140 at KURU

Here’s another plantar fasciitis option from KURU that’s a good pick for the beach, shopping, or other casual everyday wear. A reviewer proclaimed it their “go-to shoe” and gave it “5 stars for pain relief!” It offers the support of a sneaker in a trendy multi-strap sandal style. KURU Coda Muse, $140 at KURU  

Adidas Ultraboost 22 Sneakers, $86 and up on Amazon

These Ultraboost 22 sneakers from Adidas provide the benefits of the brand’s signature BOOST technology that packs many tiny energy-boosting capsules into the midsole foundation of each shoe. You also get plenty of support and a sleek design. Adidas Ultraboost 22 Sneakers, $86 and up on Amazon  

Vionic Women's Tide II Toe Post Sandal, $44.90 and up at Amazon 

Another great option from Vionic, these Tide shoes are a classic open “thong style” sandal, and again feature the three-zone comfort design. The sandal conforms to your arches and has a built-in orthotic insole. Available in a wide assortment of fun colors and styles. Vionic Women's Tide II Toe Post Sandal, $44.90 and up at Amazon 

Nike Free Metcon 4 Training Shoes, $120 at Nike 

These Nike Free Metcon 4 sneakers are sturdy enough to provide the stability you need to minimize plantar fasciitis symptoms, while also offering enough flexibility to let you move in comfort. They provide enhanced support in the critical heel and midfoot areas. Available in a variety of eye-catching designs. Nike Free Metcon 4 Training Shoes, $120 at Nike

Gravity Defyer G-Defy Mighty Walk Sneakers, $134 and up on Amazon 

These Gravity Defyer sneakers get high marks from reviewers who found them well-made and super comfortable. The rolling design helps minimize stress and strain, and the bonus CorrectiveFit orthotic insoles that come included with every pair are a nice extra. Gravity Defyer G-Defy Mighty Walk Sneakers, $134 and up on Amazon 

Saucony Triumph 20 Sneakers, $160 at Saucony

These Triumph 20 sneakers from Saucony have the lineup’s lightest-ever cushioning so as not to weigh you down, yet they still provide plenty of support and stability. They’re available in a range of color combinations—but this special Brie & Wine style is available exclusively only on the brand’s website. Saucony Triumph 20 Sneakers, $160 at Saucony

Plantar Fasciitis Accessories

Once you’ve chosen the perfect pair of shoes, these accessories can offer additional benefits to help keep plantar fasciitis from breaking your stride.

  • RENPHO Heated Foot Massager – many people with plantar fasciitis will attest to the benefits of a foot massager, and this machine from RENPHO offers three kneading modes and an optional heat function.

  • Soul Insole Shoe Bubble Orthotic Insole – use these insoles in any type of shoe or sneaker to provide enhanced alignment and support that can help alleviate symptoms of plantar fasciitis and other foot conditions.

  • OS1st Compression Bracing Socks – these socks are ideal for those with plantar fasciitis and are also great for post-workout recovery and alleviating swelling.

Next up, check out the best shoes for nurses and other healthcare workers who stand on their feet all day.

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