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To quote Cliff Clavin from Cheers, “If you’re not wearing comfortable shoes, life is just chaos.” If you have plantar fasciitis, you may agree. The best shoes for plantar fasciitis help relieve the tension and pain in your feet (especially your heels) and ultimately keep the chaos in check. 

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

In case you’re unfamiliar with plantar fasciitis, here’s a quick explainer. Susan Eby, PT, MS, owner of Eby Physical Therapy in New York City, tells SELF that the plantar fascia is a fascial band or ligament that runs from the bottom of the calcaneus, or heel bone, to the base of the toes and helps support the long arch of the foot. 

The plantar fascia becomes thicker with age and with increased body weight. This decreases the flexibility and shock-absorbing ability of the ligament. Plantar fasciitis is caused by repeated stress placed on the plantar fascia, resulting in fibrosis, or scarring of the tendon. It’s characterized by a stabbing pain in the sole of your foot, usually near your heel, and it tends to be more intense in the mornings or after you’ve been off your feet for a while. 

Jump to:

• Best Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
• Best Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
• Best Casual Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
• Best Dress Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
• Best Sandals for Plantar Fasciitis
• Best Slippers for Plantar Fasciitis
• Best Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis

What are the side effects of Plantar Fasciitis?

Risk factors include tight calf muscles, the repetitive impact from activities such as running, a rapid increase in weight-bearing activity, prolonged standing or walking, and having flat feet and 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. By choosing better shoes for life in general, you can ward off this annoying foot pain in the future without missing too many steps.

What to look for when buying shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

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,” Carla Gamez, DPM, a podiatrist at Illinois Bone & Joint Institute (IBJI), tells SELF.

You should also consider shoes with orthotics or insoles that have substantial heel cups to help with cushioning and shock absorption to avoid heel pain, Eby says. A good pair of insoles can have multiple benefits, such as providing shock absorption and comfort, while correcting malalignment and reducing foot fatigue. But plantar fasciitis is the number one reason custom orthotics are prescribed and worn, says Yolanda Ragland, DPM, a podiatrist and founder of Fix Your Feet in New York City. “Orthotic insoles work to support the arch of the foot, offering relief from plantar fasciitis discomfort.”

Insoles function a bit like a mattress topper for your shoes: You can slip them into any unsupportive pair to add arch support and cushion to an otherwise flat shoe. “Better ankle alignment leads to better walking mechanics, better knee alignment, and just better mechanics of the whole chain,” says Theresa Marko, PT, DPT, MS, owner of Marko Physical Therapy. Additionally, many shoes are flimsy and bendable, and these inserts provide rigidity, so you’re more supported as you walk and have something firm to push off with each step.

What to avoid when buying shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

Dr. Gamez says to avoid flat, non-supportive shoes or sandals. Those cute flip-flops that sell for $1? Probably not the best plantar fasciitis shoes. The same goes for sneakers without arch support, like Converse or Vans (unless you add orthotics, heel cups, or insoles), and flats.

Speaking of flats, most are low-profile with minimal or no arch support, and they don’t have room to accommodate inserts. If you are shopping for flats, however, look for a slight heel (at least a half inch) to minimize stretching on the plantar fascia, as well as a shoe that stays on your foot without toe gripping (i.e., that has elastic or other straps to secure the shoe to your foot), plus a cushioned insole with some arch support. “Flat shoes by nature will be less supportive, so this is a category where personal comfort is most important,” Eby says.

The best Plantar Fasciitis shoes

Below, we asked physical therapists and podiatrists what they consider the best shoes for plantar fasciitis (including sneakers and workout shoes, dress shoes, flats, clogs, sandals, and slippers) along with their recommendations for removable insoles to make any shoe more plantar fascia friendly. You’ll find stylish options from brands such as Teva, Dansko, Hoka One One, Clarks, Oofos, New Balance, and Superfeet from retailers like Amazon, Nordstrom, REI, and more.

Running Shoes

Dick's Sporting Goods

Hoka One One Bondi 7 Running Shoes

Hoka One One is known for its “maximalist” shoes that starkly contrast with the many minimalist models out there that offer extra speed often at the expense of additional foot support. The Bondi running shoes are some of the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis sufferers, as they’re wide and lightweight yet super cushioned (in fact, they’re Hoka’s most cushioned road-running shoe), says Bianca Beldini, DPT, a physical therapist, founder of Sundala Wellness, and a USA Triathlon Level One coach in New York City.

$160 at Dick's Sporting Goods

$160 $128 at Hoka One One

$219 at Amazon

Amazon

Asics Gel-Nimbus 24 Running Shoes

Dr. Gamez recommends Asics Gel-Nimbus 21 running shoes for a cushioned ride. Although that specific model has been discontinued, the updated Gel-Nimbus 24 offers many of the same benefits, including gel technology, which absorbs shock as you pound the pavement and thus reduces that stabbing pain. They also have a mesh upper for plenty of wiggle room in your toes.

$110 at Amazon

$160 at Dick's Sporting Goods

$160 $120 at Zappos

Zappos

Saucony Triumph 19

These Saucony sneakers come with a seal of acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), which means they’ve been evaluated by foot and ankle specialists and found to be beneficial to foot health. From its cushioned, springy feel (the softest ride that the brand offers) to its thick, supportive heel, these shoes strike a pleasant balance between sturdy and comfortable, which should provide people with plantar fasciitis the relief they seek.

$105 at Dick's Sporting Goods

$150 $106 at Amazon

Altra

Altra Paradigm 6

Another APMA-approved sneaker, the Paradigm 6 uses Altra's maximum level of cushion throughout its platform, ensuring a balanced, even ride. Plus, the foam midsole provides a bouncy boost to keep you moving.

$170 at Altra

$170 at REI

$151 at Amazon

Walking Shoes

Zappos

Hoka Clifton 8

Hoka shoes have deep heel counters and that iconic cloudlike cushioning, which means that your heels feel “hugged,” making them some of the best walking shoes for people with plantar fasciitis. Dr. Gamez recommends the Cliftons for walking because of its responsive midsole, which helps bring energy into your feet and legs as you walk.

$140 at Zappos

$140 at Nordstrom

$140 at Dick's Sporting Goods

Brooks

Brooks Addiction Walker 2

The difference between running and walking shoes is that walking shoes are designed more for comfort than for hitting your peak performance. So if you have plantar fasciitis, walking shoes are excellent to have on hand—even just for running errands. Brooks Addiction walking shoes have maximum cushioning plus a comfortable leather upper and excellent grip.

$130 at Brooks

$130 at Zappos

$130 at Amazon

Kuru Footwear

Kuru Pivot

These comfortable walking shoes are specifically designed for people with plantar fasciitis. The brand’s patented Kurusole technology hugs your heels and provides strong arch support so you can walk on any surface with more ease. It supports the fat pad on your foot while standing and walking, explains Dr. Beldini.

$125 at Kuru Footwear

Dick's Sporting Goods

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 Running Shoes

These shoes have neutral arch support, so they’re ideal for folks with low or neutral arches. Plus, neutral arches help to prevent exacerbating overuse injuries like plantar fasciitis. The shape of the shoe, cushioning, and stability helps reduce foot movement during walks or jogs.

$140 at Dick's Sporting Goods

$140 at Zappos

$140 $130 at Amazon

Dick's Sporting Goods

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X More v4

If you're a New Balance devotee who wants to avoid plantar fasciitis symptoms, the Fresh Foam X More v4 is easily our top pick. The extra-wide platform and responsive rocker shape keep feet comfortable, protected, and energized, even for extended periods of time. Reviewers who mentioned dealing with plantar fasciitis and heel pain noted that they could spend hours on their feet without issues in these (admittedly chunky) sneaks. 

$150 at Dick's Sporting Goods

$150 at New Balance

Dick's Sporting Goods

Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2

The design of this rigorously tested Nike walking shoe will help reduce plantar fasciitis pain and overpronation, as well. Its high-foam sole keeps the bottom of the foot comfortable for long stretches of time, while the wide, roomy forefoot provides stability and prevents rolling.

$160 $137 at Nike

$160 $96 at Nordstrom

$160 $98 at Dick's Sporting Goods

Zappos

Topo Athletic Trailventure 2

The Topo Athletic Trailventure 2 has a seal of acceptance from the APMA due to the ample cushioning, which should relieve some of the tension and pain associated with plantar fasciitis. On top of that, these shoes come with all the bells and whistles you’d expect in a high-quality hiking boot, including rock plates, rubber outsoles, and ankle protection.

$160 at Zappos

$160 at REI

$160 at Backcountry

Casual Shoes

Nisolo

Nisolo Everyday Chelsea Boot

When you have foot conditions like plantar fasciitis or bunions, many of the “best” shoes are simply…orthopedic-looking. Turns out, you can wear regular shoes like boots. These Nisolo boots come backed by podiatrists and, when paired with cozy socks, make an excellent supportive shoe for chillier weather.

$200 at Nisolo

$200 at Zappos

Birkenstock

Birkenstock Super-Birki Vegan

Clogs are having a moment; even if you have plantar fasciitis, you can still stay up on the latest shoe trends without making the pain worse. Case in point: these slip-on clogs from Birkenstock. They’re ideal for wearing around the house, gardening, or other low-impact activities. 

$80 at Zappos

Nordstrom

Dansko XP 2.0 Clog

With a seal of acceptance from the APMA, this classic Dansko clog is made with foot health (and pain relief) in mind: Its insole not only features a densely cushioned footbed but an arch designed for stability and support, promising all-day comfort.

$145 at Nordstrom

$145 at Amazon

$145 at The Walking Company

Nordstrom

Chaco Fields Waterproof Chelsea Boots

Chaco is perhaps best known for its outdoorsy, go-anywhere sandals, but the brand also makes stylish boots, like these waterproof Chelseas to which the APMA awarded its seal of acceptance. Reviewers on Chaco’s site have also given their enthusiastic approval, with one customer writing, “I’m recovering from plantar fasciitis and have been on the hunt for stylish boots that also provide good arch support—these boots have been awesome.” Meanwhile, another customer notes that these boots are a great pick to wear all day long: “I have issues with my heels and foot pain and usually all sneakers hurt my feet. I can walk all day in these and be completely pain-free!”

$150 at Nordstrom

$150 at Amazon

$150 at Chaco

Sandals

Amazon

Teva Verra Sandal

These sporty sandals are comfortable, include arch support, and are easy to clean, Dr. Marko says. The strapping system around the front and the back is adjustable for a sturdier fit so your ankle stays secure. Lastly, they hold up with a lot of wear and tear and have a water-resistant finish.

Teva Verras are great for walking longer distances thanks to the backstrap, Dr. Marko adds. Standard flip-flops require a bit more movement and gripping to keep your foot in place. “These sandals will make the plantar fascia on the bottom of your foot tighter because it’s constantly active and working,” she says. “But with its backstrap, you will be able to keep your foot comfortably rested inside the shoe.”

$70 $66 at Amazon

$70 at Dick's Sporting Goods

Amazon

OOFOS Original Sandals

These cushiony, cloudlike Oofos are a SELF Fave for workout recovery (and just padding around the house, honestly), owing to its thick soles, versatility, and wide range of colors and styles. According to Dr. Marko, they check off plenty of plantar fasciitis boxes too, as they have a wide strap at the top of your foot to hold it in place, plus good arch and heel support.

$60 at Amazon

$60 at Zappos

Nordstrom

Naot Kayla Sandal

These stylish strappy sandals are comfortable for everything from outdoor events to walking around for hours. They have a cushy memory foam sole and a decent heel lift to keep your feet in alignment.

$140 at Nordstrom

$140 at Amazon

$140 at Naot

Amazon

Oofos Ooahh Luxe Slide Sandal

If flip-flops aren't your thing, Dr. Gamez recommends Oofos Ooahh slides as a solid alternative. The reviews speak for themselves—but we’ll try to convince you, too. They’re made with the brand’s proprietary foam (which feels akin to memory foam) that absorbs shock, molds to your feet for support and cushioning, and gives support to your ankles, knees, and back. Tote these to the beach, locker room, pool, and everywhere in between.

$75 at Amazon

$60 at REI

Dress Shoes and Heels

Zappos

Clarks Sharon Dolly

Eby rarely recommends flats for her patients, as most women, especially pronators, have short calf muscles. “If the calf is short, the ankle can’t flex enough during gait, so the foot compensates by pronating, which is what we are trying to minimize in plantar fasciitis,” she explains. “The toe gripping, which is required to keep the shoes on the foot, can also be aggravating to the heel.”

Here’s one example of a flat that meets the above criteria: It has a half-inch heel drop, an elastic strap across the instep to help keep the shoe on your foot, and a cushioned insole with moderate arch support, Eby says. These shoes are also lightweight, come in two widths, and are relatively inexpensive.

$60 at Zappos

$60 at Amazon

$95 $57 at Macy's

Amazon

LifeStride Saldana Pump

Comfortable-heeled dress shoes may seem like an oxymoron, but these LifeStride pumps are just that, Dr. Marko says. “While these particular shoes don’t have arch support, the cushioning is like walking on pillows,” she says. “Just having your foot in the heeled position makes the plantar fascia create more of its own arch.”

$70 $46 at Amazon

$70 at Nordstrom

$70 at DSW

Ecco

Ecco Shape 35 Squared Pumps

A low-heeled shoe can go with pretty much anything. These best sellers from Ecco are made entirely from soft leather and a shaped footbed, which is the key for folks with plantar fasciitis. It cups your heel to keep your feet stable, supported, and free from annoying aching pain.

$150 $99 at Amazon

$150 $130 at Ecco

Slippers

Amazon

Vionic Gemma Mule Slippers

This comfy house slipper is covered in spa-like terry cloth material, and with Vionic’s Orthaheel technology, it offers fantastic support thanks to its built-in arch support and deep heel cup that contains the fat pad under your heel, Eby says. The EVA midsole is shock-absorbing for the heel too. A Velcro closure allows for a custom fit so they stay snug on your feet.

$70 $49 at Amazon

Amazon

OrthoFeet Charlotte Slippers

If you have wider-than-average feet, these are the slippers for you. The Orthofeets come in two widths, and the orthotic-like inserts provide arch support and foam cushioning, particularly at the heel. “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 with ease,” says Eby. “The toe box is also extra deep to accommodate any toe issues, with Velcro adjustment to fit this slipper snug to your feet.”

$105 $95 at Amazon

$105 $85 at Orthofeet

Insoles

Amazon

Superfeet Green Professional-Grade Orthotic Inserts

Superfeet insoles come highly recommended. The green and blue versions of the insoles are different in their heel-cup depth and the degree of arch support—the type you choose depends on your individual foot. 

$55 at Amazon

$55 at Dick's Sporting Goods

$55 at REI

Amazon

Superfeet Blue Professional-Grade Orthotic Shoe Inserts

The blue ones may be easier to tolerate and get used to at first before graduating to the green, Dr. Marko advises.

$55 at Amazon

$55 at Dick's Sporting Goods

$55 at Target

Amazon

Aetrex Women's Train Workout Orthotics

Here’s another great over-the-counter orthotic insole option to replace the existing insert in a shoe, Eby says. Aetrex makes many styles and model numbers, but Eby recommends any model ending in 20 (i.e., L420, L2420, etc.). “These models have a post or wedge on the inner side of the heel as well as healthy arch support, both of which help to keep the heel in alignment and prevent pronation,” she says.

$65 at Aetrex

$65 at Scheels

Amazon

Armstrong Amerika Gel Heel Cups Plantar Fasciitis Inserts

Dr. Gamez recommends adding gel heel cups to your less plantar fasciitis-friendly shoes. These add rigidity and the gel creates a softer footbed and puts your feet, legs, knees, and hips in proper alignment. 

$20 at Amazon

Amazon

Dr. Scholl's Comfort Heel Cushions

If you've never tried heel cups or insoles, these budget-friendly options from Dr. Scholl’s are a good place to start. These aren’t as rigid as Armstrong Amerika’s, but they will absorb shock and make any pair of shoes more comfortable.

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