These Stylish, Podiatrist-Approved Fall Boots Do Wonders for Plantar Fasciitis Pain

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As the temperatures drop, it's time to swap your sandals and sneakers for a pair of hygge-style boots that'll keep your feet and calves warm. For people with plantar fasciitis, finding the perfect boots that won't worsen your foot pain can be a challenge. To help you find the right pair, Prevention.com asked some of the top podiatrists for their shopping tips for finding the best boots for plantar fasciitis without having to sacrifice style, comfort, or warmth.

Does plantar fasciitis get worse in the winter?

Plantar fasciitis—an inflammation of the tissue that joins the toes to the heels—can make your feet ache any time of year, but a change in weather might aggravate it. “I do notice that the change of weather and change of shoe gear can play a part in why some feet get more achey in the winter. When we change from open shoes to closed shoes and boots, there is a tendency for some pains to resurface, especially if you have had fasciitis in the past,” says Jacqueline M. Sutera, DPM, a podiatrist in New York City.

Ernest L. Isaacson, DPM, another New York City podiatrist also says that you might see more plantar fasciitis flare-ups in the colder months after a summer of going barefoot and wearing unsupportive sandals and flip flops. The best self-care you can give our feet, Dr. Sutera says, is to make sure your boots provide support and comfort. Although it’s tempting, don’t dig old boots from five seasons ago out of your closet, especially if the heels have started to wear down. Instead, replace them with a few new pairs tailored to the activities you do most frequently in the fall and winter.

How to look for the best boots for plantar fasciitis

Ramona Brooks, DPM, a spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association, recommends going boot shopping at the end of the day to get the most accurate fit because your feet tend to swell as the day goes on. Don't just focus on the heel support, though. “If you have plantar fasciitis, you need to make sure the boot has a wide enough toe box. Stay away from boots with a more narrow or pointed toe box, even though they’re stylish,” Dr. Brooks advises.

And contrary to what you might think, having a short heel can be good for people with plantar fasciitis. “A one- to two-inch heel is usually common with winter boots for traction, to elevate the foot out of water and snow,” Brooks says. This heel can also help stabilize your feet. Brooks says the fit around the ankle and the arch of the foot should be snug. “Support in the ankle too—all the way around—is crucial, as well as in the arch, so you don’t have ankle sprains,” Brooks says.

It doesn't hurt to wear a variety of pairs either—don't feel as though you need to stick to one pair of boots all winter long. “It’s important to have a 'shoe wardrobe' and to switch it up. Having a pair of rubber-soled boots, ones with stacked, chunky heels, and another one with less heel is a good start. Wearing the same shoes every day—and all day—isn't good for your your feet, knees, back and entire skeleton,” Sutera says. Check out our comfy selection of boots for plantar fasciitis.

FitFlop Holly Waterproof Genuine Shearling Lined Boot

FitFlop makes more than just sandals, and the American Podiatric Medical Association approves the brand as having boots with a solidly supportive heel. These weatherproof boots have a shearling lining for additional warmth, as well as added arch support to take pressure off the plantar fascia tissue, according to Isaacson.

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Vionic Serena Boots

For everyday wear, you need a casual boot to go with almost anything you wear, but it should be comfortable and have a durable heel. Podiatrists recommend Vionic for just that. “The reason these are great boots is because they're not only stylish, but they're also good for you. They have superior arch support, cushioning and shock absorption. The insert that it comes with is also removable, so you can add a different insert if you need or want to,” Sutera says.

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Chaco Cataluna

This leather boot can camouflage as a dressy-casual shoe with jeans and an oversized sweater, but it's meant to withstand all of your hiking and walking adventures. It's endorsed by podiatrists for having solid arch support and a bamboo heel to help stabilize your feet as you trudge through trails or cobblestone streets.

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Vionic Kennedy

Whether you’re headed to a holiday party or the office, don’t feel like you have to cheat yourself out of wearing heels just because you have plantar fasciitis. “Most feet feel better in a low heel, rather than a very flat shoe, to relieve the pressure under the arch and heel, and provide stability for the back of the foot,” Isaacson says. This bootie has a three-inch heel, and Vionic’s OrthaHeel technology keeps feet cushioned and aligned properly for ultimate comfort, even if you're tearing up the dance floor.

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Naturalizer Demi Riding Boots

Again, style shouldn’t be a sacrifice when plantar fasciitis comes into play. This sleek knee-high boot has a double layer of cushioning and a contoured footbed, so you may not even need to insert your own orthotics. “If the boots are flat on the inside, adding a cushioned arch support can really help to make the boot more comfortable,” Sutera says. “You may need to go up a half size, but usually if you just take out the original lining that comes inside the shoe, it gives enough room to accommodate another insert or orthotic.”

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Clarks Wallabee Boot

Walking barefoot around the house isn't ideal if you have plantar fasciitis, so you need to have supportive slippers or comfy shoes on while lounging around the house. This super comfy moccasin bootie is perfectly suitable for walking if you’re out and about as well. It has a particularly wide toe box, which gives them plenty of room to spread, and a sturdy, supportive sole.

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Chaco Sierra

For a winter hike, your feet crave warmth and strong ankle support—even more so if you have plantar fasciitis. This lace-up waterproof option from Chaco has both, plus a removable contouring footbed in case you want to put your own insert. The grippy rubber outsole has a solid tread to help you trek across mountainous terrain and protect your feet from rain and snow.

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Vionic Downing

This pair from Vionic has its signature built-in orthotic so you likely won’t even need to insert the ones from your doc. And the genuine leather and suede material is durable enough to keep the boots in your closet for a couple of years. With a shorter knee-high shaft, it's an ideal pair for petite women.

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The arrival of sweater weather means refreshing your wardrobe—including swapping out your summer walking sandals for a stylish pair of fall boots. But if you suffer from plantar fasciitis, it can be challenging to find comfy, supportive shoes that won’t worsen your foot pain. Worry not: That’s where the best boots for plantar fasciitis come in to save your aching feet!

Plantar fasciitis, a condition that causes inflammation of the tissue that joins the toes to the heels, can make your feet ache any time of the year, but a change in weather and foot gear (say, after wearing unsupportive sandals and flip-flops all summer) can cause pains to resurface when it’s time to switch to boots, says Ernest L. Isaacson, D.P.M., a podiatrist in New York City.

Meet the Experts: Ernest L. Isaacson, D.P.M., a podiatrist in New York City; Jacqueline M. Sutera, D.P.M., a podiatrist in New York City; Saylee Tulpule, D.P.M., a podiatrist with Foot and Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic in Maryland; Ramona Brooks, D.P.M., a spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association;

That’s precisely why you’ll want to look for boots that will help minimize any pain associated with plantar fasciitis. In fact, the best care you can give your feet is to make sure your boots provide support and comfort, says Jacqueline M. Sutera, D.P.M., a podiatrist in New York City. To start, avoid wearing old boots from five seasons ago, especially if the heels have started to wear down. Instead, replace them with a new pair that offers ample arch support and extra-soft, shock-absorbing cushioning that will help reduce pain and discomfort.

But with so many options for boots out there, which ones are truly the best for plantar fasciitis? Luckily, we’ve done all the work for you and rounded up some of the best podiatrist-approved picks below that will make a stylish (and comfy!) addition to your fall wardrobe.

Ready to find your new favorite fall shoes? Ahead, shop top-rated boots for plantar fasciitis as recommended by podiatrists—they’ll ease the pain whether you’re working, hiking, or traveling through snow or rain.

Cove Boots

A top pick recommended by Saylee Tulpule, D.P.M., a podiatrist with Foot and Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic in Maryland, these sleek Chelsea boots feature double-side elastic and pull tabs for easy slip-on. They’re also waterproof—a must for autumn and winter—and have removable footbeds, meaning you can add insoles that work best for your feet. Plus, reviewers rave that they require zero break-in time and offer stellar arch support; they’re the whole package.

“My feet are PICKY when it comes to shoes. Plantar fasciitis, don’t like crunched toes, heel slip bugs me. These boots are perfect! They may be the most comfortable boots I’ve ever owned!” raves one Zappos shopper. “They have a good tread that doesn’t slip. Supportive, and a great fit on my narrow long foot...My feet love them, I can walk around/work all day without pain.”

Women’s Rate Ankle Boot

A comfy, versatile pair of booties is a must in every wardrobe—especially when it’s this top-rated pick from Dr. Scholl’s. Constructed with microfiber made from recycled bottles, these lightweight boots feature a cushioned insole and a 1-inch stacked heel. They’re also easy to take on and off, thanks to the back pull tabs and deep side chop-out design.

“Dr. Scholl’s Rate Ankle Boot was comfortable to wear right out of the box! I have plantar fasciitis and an Achilles problem so I was surprised at the comfort these boots have,” writes one reviewer. “There was no uncomfortable rubbing at the ankle that most ankle boots cause. I wore them with tights and a dress to a 5-hour function and my feet were comfortable the whole time!”

Kamryn Boots

Vionic shoes are often recommended by podiatrists because they’re designed with stability and support in mind—and these are no different. “The reason these are great boots is because they’re not only stylish, but they’re also good for you,” Sutera says. “They have superior arch support, cushioning, and shock absorption.” Plus, there’s a removable insole, meaning you can replace it with your own orthotics. And despite looking taller, the block heel is just over an inch and a half tall—perfect for people with plantar fasciitis.

“I have very high arches, have been diagnosed with plantar fasciitis, and need a shoe with tons of arch support,” writes one reviewer. “These boots are comfortable and stylish...And I can walk or stand for long periods without any foot pain!”

Women’s Charm Gwen High Pull-On Boot

If you’re looking for a stylish, comfy pair of tall boots, Vionic has you covered. Made of a high-quality suede that’s water-repellant, this durable pair delivers comfort with a podiatrist-designed footbed and an orthotic insole for arch support, which is also removable.

“I LOVE these boots. Fit perfect. You can wear these all day from first day out of box,” says one Amazon reviewer. “The arch support feels amazing!!” writes another shopper. “I’m really looking forward to wearing these next fall and having warm, toasty toes without foot pain!”

Women’s Encore 4 Tall Polar Waterproof Snow Boot

These top-rated boots from Merrell are great for cold weather and wintry conditions, thanks to its waterproof design and the faux fur and fleece lining for extra wamrth. They also feature a lightweight EVA foam midsole as well as a soft, shock-absorbing cushioning in the heel.

“I found my new favorite cold weather boots...They’re comfortable and warm,” says one Amazon reviewer. “I don’t need to wear thick socks to keep warm, but there’s enough room to wear thick socks if I wanted to do that. I like that I don’t have to use my arch support inserts for these boots. The boots default support is sufficient enough for me, and I can comfortably walk in them all day.”

Ellery Ankle Boots

With excellent arch support, a subtle heel, and an easy-on design, this is one of Tulpule’s most-recommended boots for plantar fasciitis. The waterproof leather upper wouldn’t look out of place during date night or in a work meeting, and the shock-absorbing footbed offers up plenty of comfort. And because they’re so durable, they’ll age well, making them even more beautiful after a few months of wear and tear.

“I shopped for several hours in these boots and my feet which are prone to have heel pain did not hurt at all. The boots are very comfortable especially with a proper boot sock,” writes one Amazon customer.

Wander Boots

With a classic silhouette and a chunky block heel, Naot Wanders are both right on trend and endlessly comfortable. Tulpule recommends these boots for their 1.5-inch heel, anti-slip soles, and removable insoles. Better yet, they feature zipper closures on both sides—making them easy to slip on and off.

“Right out of the box, quite possibly THE most comfortable shoe I’ve ever worn! I have high arches and the entire fit was great,” writes one reviewer, while another says: “So comfortable!...I also have plantar fasciitis and my feet don’t hurt after wearing these for 8 hours.”

Emslie Warren Slip-On Loafers

Toeing the line between loafer and bootie, these elevated slip-ons come highly recommended by Tulpule, who appreciates the relatively low heel height, durable rubber sole, and comfy footbed. Plus, they come in wide and narrow options for the perfect fit. It’s racked up over 12,000 five-star ratings on Amazon, with reviewers reporting that they’re a great work and walking shoe, allowing for hours of standing without pain.

“By far my favorite work shoes I’ve ever bought! So comfortable. I have plantar fasciitis and can wear these all day and my feet don’t hurt at all,” writes one satisfied customer.

Everlane The Rain Boot

Looking for a reliable rain boot? This ever-popular option from Everlane features a Chelsea design, a grippy sole, and room for your coziest socks. Available in six stylish colors, these waterproof boots are the perfect height, protecting your feet from splashes while allowing the rest of your outfit to shine. And although their custom-designed cushioned insole is designed for maximum comfort, you can also replace it with your own, since there’s enough wiggle room inside the kicks. Reviewers love that they’re sturdy, comfy, and stylish, with one shopper writing: “Can walk miles and miles without feeling uncomfortable!”

Delta Hiking Boots

Another of Tulpule’s recommendations, these Orthofeet boots are designed specifically for hikers with plantar fasciitis. The brand emphasizes arch support and superior cushioning—the two most important factors in a boot for plantar fasciitis, Tulpule notes—along with three width options and a roomy toe box (both also great for bunions). On top of all that, they don’t even look like orthopedic shoes—they’re as handsome as hiking boots get.

“These beautiful, comfortable, and life changing shoes from Orthofeet...are well worth the money I paid for them,” writes one reviewer with plantar fasciitis. “I can’t rave enough about how comfortable my feet are, how much room I have for my toes, and I have absolutely noticed a difference when I’m not wearing them as my other shoes I have nowhere near the support.”

Bean Boots

Sometimes, you don’t need to mess with the classics—and that includes the iconic Bean Boots. This pair, which is equipped with GORE-TEX waterproofing (a favorite of hikers) and a warm lining, is one of Tulpule’s go-tos for gray, wintry days. Add solid stitching, sturdy soles, and pull tabs, and these kicks have all of the little details that make an excellent pair of life-proof boots.

“These boots are so comfortable I wish I could wear them all day. They fit perfectly, have a great arch support and keep my feet toasty warm,” raves one Zappos shopper. “They are super comfortable to wear for hours walking around town, or trekking through snow,” notes another.

How to choose the best plantar fasciitis boots

✔️ Emphasize support. “The key with managing plantar fasciitis symptoms, since most accumulate in the heel and extend into the arch, is to maximize the amount of arch support and cushion in a shoe,” says Tulpule. Solid shock-absorption and arch support (from cushy, arched footbeds and substantial soles) help prevent that stabbing pain associated with the condition.

✔️ Pay attention to the heel. Short heels are usually best for people with plantar fasciitis, explains Ramona Brooks, D.P.M., a spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association. Tulpule, who personally has a history of plantar fasciitis, agrees, recommending two inches or less and a block heel to balance pressure. Anything “higher than a two-inch heel” can aggravate your tendons and ligaments, making symptoms worse, she notes.

✔️ Look inside. Beyond arch support, the best pairs of boots for plantar fasciitis can also accommodate custom orthotics, Tulpule explains, either with a deep footbed or removable insoles. On top of that, “you need to make sure the boot is wide enough,” Brooks says. “Stay away from boots with a more narrow or pointed toe box, even though they’re stylish.”

It doesn’t hurt to wear a variety of pairs either; don’t feel as though you need to stick to one pair of boots all season. “Wearing the same shoes every day—and all day—isn’t good for your feet, knees, back, and entire skeleton,” Sutera says. “Having a pair of rubber-soled boots, one with stacked, chunky heels, and one with less heel is a good start.”

As a rule of thumb, you should replace your shoes every 300 to 400 miles or every six to eight months, whichever comes first, Tulpule says—or, at the very least, every year.

Benefits of boots for plantar fasciitis

If you have plantar fasciitis, some shoes can exacerbate the pain and discomfort of the condition whenever you walk, run, or stand. That’s why wearing proper boots—ones that are specifically designed and recommended for plantar fasciitis—is crucial for your foot health. These shoes can provide the right amount of cushioning, stability, and support to help minimize heel pain and manage discomfort.

What kind of boots should you wear if you have plantar fasciitis?

According to podiatrists, those with plantar fasciitis should look for boots that have maximum arch support and cushioning in order to minimize pain. This will include features like a cushy, arched footbed and thick and cushioned soles that provide proper shock absorption.

Podiatrists also recommend boots with shorter heels of two inches or less—or a block heel—which are best for balancing pressure on your feet. Additionally, boots with removable insoles or a deep footbed are ideal, as they can accommodate custom orthotics. Perhaps most importantly, you’ll want to make sure the boot is a good fit for your feet, avoiding narrow or pointed toe boxes which can cause discomfort.

How we chose the best plantar fasciitis boots

We consulted several podiatrists and foot health experts to find the best boots for plantar fasciitis, including Ernest L. Isaacson, D.P.M., a podiatrist in New York City; Jacqueline M. Sutera, D.P.M., a podiatrist in New York City; Saylee Tulpule, D.P.M., a podiatrist with Foot and Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic in Maryland; and Ramona Brooks, D.P.M., a spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association. In addition, we combed through hundreds of ratings, reviews, and product specs online.

Why trust us

For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Additionally, Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.

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