If you're someone who suffers from plantar fasciitis you know just how painful it can be. Getting out of bed or standing up after sitting can be debilitating. Heel pain, which affects the fibrous connective tissue that runs from your heel to the ball of your foot can make even the most basic daily activities like grocery shopping unbearable.
Did you know that the right pair of shoes can make a huge difference in managing your symptoms? If a patient has heel pain and their shoes are over a year old, I routinely recommend new shoes at the first visit. Here is a list of the top 10 best shoes for plantar fasciitis, as recommended by experts. These shoes are designed to provide the support, cushioning, and stability your feet need to alleviate pain and discomfort.
ASICS Gel-Kayano 24 - This shoe is known for its exceptional cushioning and support, making it a top choice for those with plantar fasciitis. I like Asics for women in particular because they have a narrow heel and wide toebox.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 - The Adrenaline GTS 21 features a comfortable, stable ride and a supportive design that's perfect for those with plantar fasciitis. Brooks are a great overall sneaker.
New Balance 990v5 - The 990v5 offers a combination of stability and cushioning, making it a great option for those with plantar fasciitis. Good if the front of your foot and heel are the same width.
Hoka One One Bondi 7 - The Bondi 7 is a popular choice among those with plantar fasciitis thanks to its generous cushioned support. These shoes work well if you also have stiffness in the big toe joint.
Saucony Guide 10 - The Guide 10 is a great option for those with plantar fasciitis, offering a balance of cushioning and support to keep your feet comfortable.
Mizuno Wave Inspire 14 - The Wave Inspire 14 is designed to provide a comfortable and stable ride, making it a great choice for those with plantar fasciitis.
Altra Torin 4.5 - The Torin 4.5 is designed to provide a natural and comfortable fit, making it a great option for those with plantar fasciitis. Features a minimal drop from the heel to the front of the shoe.
Vionic Walker Classic - This shoe offers a combination of support, cushioning, and stability, making it a great choice for those with plantar fasciitis. Vionics have inserts in the shoes for added support.
Orthofeet Springfield - The Springfield is designed to provide a comfortable and supportive fit and stable heel making it a great option for those with plantar fasciitis.
New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v11 - The Fresh Foam 1080v11 offers a balance of cushioning and support, making it a great choice for those with plantar fasciitis.
It's important to note that this list is not exhaustive and there are many shoes on the market that can help with plantar fasciitis. I recommend buying shoes at a local shoe store like Fleet Feet or Lamey Wellehan to ensure a proper fit. Let the staff shop for you and pick shoes that will work for your foot type. Consider buying shoes online only after you know what shoes work for you. I like the personal experience and prefer folks to buy shoes directly from the store. These sneakers listed above come with removable foot beds and work well with custom molded orthotics.
New shoes can seem expensive but truly it is an investment in your health and well-being. By investing in a good pair of shoes for plantar fasciitis, you can help to alleviate pain and discomfort and get back to doing the things you love. So don't wait any longer, start shopping for a pair of shoes that will help you manage your plantar fasciitis today.