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The 9 Best Sneakers for Plantar Fasciitis
This article was reviewed and approved by a medical professional.
Dr. Vivek David is a licensed orthopedic surgeon who specializes in joint replacement and lower limb reconstruction surgeries. With a rich experience of over 10 years in orthopedics, he has an excellent reputation for handling complex lower limb joint reconstruction and robotic surgeries.
Looking for the best footwear for your painful heels? Here’s a list of the 9 best sneakers for plantar fasciitis!
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common orthopedic complaints, affecting one in ten people in their lifetime.
This painful condition occurs when excess pressure on plantar fascia ligaments causes damage or tear of the ligament, causing inflammation and foot pain.
Comfortable footwear plays a significant role in keeping orthopedic issues like plantar fasciitis at bay. Sneakers are the best option, as they offer plenty of cushion & arch support to limit discomfort and minimize pain.
But not all sneakers are equal – there are plenty that offer little support, which will only worsen the problem. If you’re looking for the best pair of sneakers to manage your plantar fasciitis pain, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Support & Firmness – Look for sneakers that provide strong arch support, ensuring that the entire base of your foot is supported throughout every step. It should feel firm & supportive – avoid any shoes where you can easily twist the sole back & forth.
Stability - Your foot should not slide side-to-side or front-to-back; this increases the risk of injury and you’ll struggle to find solid footing even on flat surfaces. A broad, firm heel counter helps stabilize your entire foot, reducing unnecessary strain on the plantar fascia.
Cushion & Soft Impact – Your feet absorb the entire weight of your body every time you strike the ground. To minimize this impact and prevent further pain, choose shoes that have supportive, removable footbeds. This will protect your feet & reduce the stress on your bones & tissue when standing & walking.
Every foot is different, so choose a pair of sneakers that’s comfortable for you. And when summer rolls around, make sure to pick up a pair of supportive sandals too!
Here are the top 9 sneakers that are good for plantar fasciitis:
Plim Soul Lux
Plim Soul Lux sneakers are where chic and elegance meet casual to create a pair of comfortable and stylish shoes for plantar fasciitis. The elevated rubber sidewall protects your foot from daily wear & tear, and the insole offers plenty of support for high arches & weak ankles. These lace-up leather sneakers are ready to wear fresh out of the box – no break-in period required.
Z Soul
Z Soul sneakers are another favorite for plantar fasciitis. With excellent arch support, a thick rubber sole that makes it feel like you’re walking on clouds and a dual lace-zipper locking system, these canvas shoes are made for conditions like heel spurs, Morton’s neuroma, and general ball of foot pain.
Direction
Maximize your style while minimizing your impact with Direction. These innovative sneakers come with remarkable arch support, durable rubber outsole, collapsible back, and an EVA midsole. If you’re looking for a versatile style to manage your plantar fasciitis, these will absorb every ounce of shock.
Plim Soul
If we had to only pick one pair of supportive sneakers that can be worn with your favorite maxi dress, pair of jeans, or fabulous shorts you've been waiting to debut, we recommend Plim Soul. Made with canvas and available in a variety of colors, this chic sneaker has the softest footbed and a durable rubber outsole to provide your feet with the cushion & comfort they need.
Winner
The name says it all – the absolute Winner in the high-top sneakers for plantar fasciitis category. This shoe is sophisticated and chic, and layered with a comfortable, supportive footbed and thick rubber sole to absorb the shock of every step you take.
Heart & Soul Lux
You'll fall in love with the classic leather style paired with amazing arch support from Heart & Soul Lux. The elevated rubber sidewall protects your foot from daily wear & tear and these lace-up leather sneakers are ready to style with endless every day looks for day and night!
Pop Soul
The fabulous Pop Soul is a must-have in your PF friendly sneaker collection! These leather lace-ups have our signature premium removable footbed featuring arch and metatarsal support for all-day comfort and style. They're an instant classic to finish off your looks with a bit of fun!
Detour
If you love the Direction but want a structured back, try Detour. These active-inspired sneakers come with remarkable arch support, durable rubber outsole and an EVA midsole. If you’re looking for another versatile style to manage your plantar fasciitis, these offer flexibility and durability wherever the road takes you!
Star
Star is one of the best women’s sneakers for plantar fasciitis. These canvas low tops combine sensational comfort and timeless design, and feature Curves & Pods® premium removable footbeds which offer full arch, heel, and metatarsal support.
Moc Star 2
The Moc Star 2 is for all the denim lovers out there. Breathable, lightweight, and supportive, these plantar fasciitis sneakers will add a little extra oomph to any casual outfit. They’re designed with complete arch and metatarsal support, plus extra cushion in the forefoot, making them the perfect travel shoe for airports, train stations, and all the adventures in between.
Rubber Soul
Your favorite skate shoe just got an upgrade. Meet the Rubber Soul, a low-top canvas sneaker that slides on & off with ease. With full-foot support and extra cushioning for constant impact, these are one of the best pairs of skate shoes for plantar fasciitis. Pair them with skinny jeans in the fall and lose the socks when summer comes around for a casual, care-free look.
Can Shoes Make Your Plantar Fasciitis Worse?
There are certain things you shouldn’t do when you have plantar fasciitis – wearing uncomfortable shoes is one of them. Avoid shoes that are overly tight or lift your heel far above your toes – this style of footwear prevents your foot from establishing its normal posture and increases pressure on sensitive regions like the plantar fascia.
The Takeaway
The primary cause of plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia. By wearing shoes with solid arch support, total-foot stability, and extra cushioning, you can prevent PF from occurring and manage any existing foot pain that may have already begun.
In situations of severe pain, a specialist should be consulted for more personalized guidance and orthotics.
FAQs
Q: Can Shoes Make Your Plantar Fasciitis Worse?
A: It can be made worse by wearing tight shoes or heels that are excessively high in relation to the toes. This style of shoe restricts your foot's normal motion, which can put extra strain on ligaments and tendons like the plantar fascia.
Q: What Shoes Should You Not Wear With Plantar Fasciitis?
A: You should stay away from high heels and other shoes that place undue strain on your feet. Low-quality flip-flops seldom have adequate support for the arch, so you should stay away from those, too.
Q: What Aggravates Plantar Fasciitis?
A: Running, walking, or standing for long periods of time in unsupportive shoes can all increase the force through your feet, aggravating plantar fasciitis.
Q: Should You See a Podiatrist for Plantar Fasciitis?
A: A podiatrist addresses all orthopedic disorders and injuries involving the foot and ankle. A podiatrist can treat foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis, bone spurs, or a sprained ankle.
Q: What Is the Fastest Way To Cure Plantar Fasciitis?
A: With conservative therapy, such as cooling the painful region, stretching, and adjusting or avoiding activities that cause discomfort, most persons with plantar fasciitis recover in several months.
Q: What Is the Number One Cause of Plantar Fasciitis?
A: Plantar fasciitis is frequently caused by repeated motion or anything that puts a lot of strain on your foot's plantar fascia ligament. Running, jogging, and walking, as well as frequently extended durations of standing or being on your feet, can all contribute to plantar fasciitis.
Sources:
Trojian, Thomas, and Alicia K. Tucker. “Plantar Fasciitis.” Plantar Fasciitis | AAFP, www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2019/0615/p744.html. Accessed 2 Jan. 2023.
“These Are the Healthiest Shoes to Wear, According to Scientists.” Time, 30 May 2018, time.com/5294580/healthy-shoes-footwear.
“Bad Habits That Are Making Your Plantar Fasciitis Worse: Metairie Orthopedics and Sports Medicine: Board Certified Sports Medicine Orthopedic Surgeon.” Bad Habits That Are Making Your Plantar Fasciitis Worse: Metairie Orthopedics & Sports Medicine: Board Certified Sports Medicine Orthopedic Surgeon, www.metairiesportsmed.com/blog/bad-habits-that-are-making-your-plantar-fasciitis-worse#. Accessed 2 Jan. 2023.