It only takes one especially uncomfortable flare up of heel and foot pain to realize the importance of proper footwear: The best shoes for plantar fasciitis can help relieve the tension in your feet and hopefully avoid these frustrating days in the first place. We spoke with physical therapists and podiatrists to help find the right shoes for anyone who deals with this condition.
What is plantar fasciitis?
Before we get into the causes of plantar fasciitis, it’s helpful to think about the anatomy of the foot region first. 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, Susan Eby, PT, MS, owner of Eby Physical Therapy in New York City, tells SELF. It helps support the long arch of the foot and provides shock absorption while you walk and run.
Repeated stress on the plantar fascia can cause damage or small tears that may lead to inflammation. Plantar fasciitis often feels like a stabbing or aching pain in the sole of your foot, usually near your heel, which tends to be more intense in the mornings or after you’ve been off your feet for a while. Some factors that can make plantar fasciitis worse include tight calf muscles, repetitive high-impact activities like running, a rapid increase in weight-bearing activity, prolonged standing or walking, and flat feet or 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.
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The best shoes for plantar fasciitis
Below, you’ll find expert-recommended shoes (including sneakers, dress shoes, sandals, and slippers), with plantar fasciitis friendly features—like extra padding, sturdy arch support, and securely-fitting footbeds—along with recommendations for removable insoles to make any pair more comfortable. But don’t worry, we’re not talking stereotypical, clunky orthopedic footwear (although, those certainly do the trick). Instead, we’ve rounded up stylish options from brands such as Teva, Hoka One One, Clarks, Oofos, New Balance, and Superfeet from retailers like Amazon, Nordstrom, REI, and more.
Walking Shoes
Hoka Clifton 9
Hoka shoes have deep heel counters and cloudlike cushioning, which feel like a glorious hug around your feet. That snug, plush fit makes them some of the best walking shoes for people with plantar fasciitis. Carla Gamez, DPM, a podiatrist at Illinois Bone & Joint Institute (IBJI), recommends the Clifton because of its responsive midsole, which, despite its heavier cushion, helps propel you forward as you walk. The latest version, the Clifton 9, helped alleviate SELF’s executive editor’s plantar fasciitis pain and secured its place as her go-to sneaker.
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