Plantar Fasciitis Relief Starts with These Podiatrist-Approved Shoes
June 13, 2025
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If you deal with heel and arch pain, then you know the struggle of trying to find comfortable footwear. While no pair is perfect, the best shoes for plantar fasciitis can help relieve the tension in your feet and help you avoid frustrating flare-ups in the first place.
To help you find the right pair, we spoke with physical therapists, podiatrists, and SELF staffers to learn what to look out for and what to avoid in shoes for plantar fasciitis. Below, you’ll find comfy, expert-approved (and, frankly, pretty darn cute) sneakers, dress shoes, sandals, and slippers.
Our top picks
- Best Overall: Kuru Quantum 2, $169
- Runner-Up: Hoka Clifton 10, $150
- Best for Long Periods on Your Feet: New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v14, $140
- Best Walking Shoe: Vionic Walk Strider,
$150$140 - Best Running Shoe: Asics Gel-Nimbus 27, $165
- Best for Maximum Cushioning: Hoka Bondi 9,
$183$170 - Best for Wide Feet: Brooks Ghost 16, $140
- Best Hiking Boot: Hoka Kaha 3 GTX, $240
- Best Sandal: Oofos OOahh Slide,
$145$102
Ready to heel your soles?
Best Overall: Kuru Quantum 2
Shopping market editor Angela Trakoshis testing the Kuru Quantum 2
Dolly Faibyshev
Why we recommend it: This comfortable walking shoe from Kuru is designed to help alleviate foot pain, including the discomfort that comes with plantar fasciitis. The brand’s patented Kurusole technology supports your heels and arches to help them better absorb impact while you stand and walk.
The previous model of the Quantum was recommended by Bianca Beldini, DPT, a physical therapist, founder of Sundala Wellness, and a USA Triathlon level-one coach in New York City. Minor design tweaks that make this latest version the greatest one yet include a wider base and a roomier toe box. These additions also make the 2.0 a good option for folks with issues like bunions.
Good for: long walks, shock absorption, people with bunions
Sizes: US 5 to 12 | Widths: Medium, wide | Heel-to-toe drop: 8.5 millimeters | Weight: 10.8 ounces | Materials: Mesh, synthetic fabric, rubber
Shopping market editor Angela Trakoshis testing the Kuru Quantum 2:
Runner-Up: Hoka Clifton 10
SELF senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin testing the Hoka Clifton 10
Why we recommend it: The latest version of Hoka’s bestselling Clifton has a seal of approval from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), which only goes to shoes that experts consider helpful for supporting foot health. It improves upon previous versions with increased stability through the midsole and a rocker sole that more smoothly transitions from heel to forefoot. And, just like before, it has Hoka’s signature foam padding (bye-bye, foot fatigue).
Good for: walking workouts, high arches, bunions
One SELF staffer was converted from a Hoka skeptic to a believer, thanks to these sneaks: “I don’t have plantar fasciitis, but my high arches do get sore sometimes if my shoes aren’t supportive enough,” senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin says. “The Clifton 10 feels super soft (but not squishy) and has the right amount of support I need to walk longer without achy feet. I ordered the wide size, which fit me (and my bunions) perfectly.”
Sizes: US 4 to 12 | Widths: Medium, wide, x-wide | Heel-to-toe drop: 8 millimeters | Weight: 8.7 ounces | Materials: Foam, rubber, mesh
SELF senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin testing the Hoka Clifton 10:
Best for Long Periods on Your Feet: New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v14
New Balance
Fresh Foam X 860v14
Associate social media manager Katie Gunderman testing the New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v14
Dolly Faibyshev
Why we recommend it: These New Balance sneaks are one of the brand’s stability shoes, meaning they’re designed to help keep your feet aligned as you walk and run (which can be tough when you have arch issues). You can see their sturdiness in their longevity too: New Balance designed the Fresh Foam X 860v14 for major mileage and varied distances. If you want a shoe you can wear into the ground—hour after hour, season after season—you’ve met your perfect pair.
Good for: standing for long periods of time, a highly cushioned feel, ankle support
According to one SELF reviewer, they’re great for keeping your feet supported when you’re doing a lot of standing and moving around. “These fit snugly enough to keep my feet in place, but aren’t so restrictive that they’re uncomfortable or tight—kind of like the ideal hug,” she says. “I also love how cushioned the heel counter feels, especially as someone who’s prone to ankle irritation.”
Sizes: US 5 to 12 | Widths: Narrow, medium, wide, extra wide | Heel-to-toe drop: 8 millimeters | Weight: 8.7 ounces | Materials: Foam, rubber, mesh
Associate social media manager Katie Gunderman testing the New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v14:
Best Walking Shoe: Vionic Walk Strider
Vionic
Walk Strider Walking Shoes
Why we recommend it: With a sturdy design and a high level of arch support, Vionic’s Walk Strider can help relieve plantar fasciitis pain, Gigee Bhular, DPM, a foot and ankle physician at Virtua Health in New Jersey, tells SELF. While its rigid midfoot helps prevent rolling, its flexible upper bends with your foot when you’re on the move.
Good for: a simple and understated look, comfort right out of the box
One SELF tester put a pair of the Vionic Walk Striders through its paces and confirms that they’re comfortable right out of the box. “I struggle with new shoes creating ‘hot spots’ and blisters by rubbing on my heels and the sides of my feet—I’m known to bust out the Band-Aids at my desk after commuting into the office. But the Vionic Walk Strider didn’t require any breaking-in time,” she says.
“These aren’t the cushiest, bounciest kicks I’ve ever worn, but the arch support helps my former ballerina feet feel lifted and supported, even after hours on the go.”
Sizes: US 5 to 13 | Widths: Medium, wide | Heel-to-toe drop: 16 millimeters | Weight: N/A | Materials: Mesh, leather, nylon, EVA foam, rubber
Best Running Shoe: Asics Gel-Nimbus 27
Why we recommend it: Dr. Gamez recommends Asics Gel-Nimbus running shoes for a cushioned ride. This bestselling style is made with gel technology that absorbs shock as you pound the pavement. It also has a breathable mesh upper that has plenty of space through the forefoot, giving your toes some extra wiggle room.
Good for: shock absorption, high arches, sweaty feet
One SELF tester who deals with plantar fasciitis loves her Gel-Nimbus 26s (the previous model): “I always wear my Nimbus 26s for recovery runs and on days when my feet could use a little more cushion underneath them,” she says. “They’re super supportive and hug my high arches. I love that this shoe also comes in solid colorways, making it easier to match them with the rest of my outfit.”
Sizes: US 5 to 13 | Widths: Medium, wide | Heel-to-toe drop: 8 millimeters | Weight: 9.30 ounces | Materials: Mesh, foam, rubber
Best for Maximum Cushioning: Hoka Bondi 9
Why we recommend it: The updated model of the 2023 SELF Sneaker Award–winning Hoka Bondi 8 is known for its maximalist cushioning that delivers a marshmallowy ride without weighing you down. All that extra padding makes it one of the best options for people with plantar fasciitis, Dr. Beldini says.
Good for: more cushion than you ever thought you needed, daily runs, long walks
When SELF’s director of fitness and food tested the updated model, she appreciated the maximalist feel: “It’s super comfy for standing, with all of that foam underneath,” she says. Another tester adds, “they’re so responsive, I feel like I’m walking through life on a good-for-my-feet moonbounce. At the same time, they keep my midfoot in place and stabilized, while allowing my toes to move freely through the roomy toe box.”
Sizes: US 4 to 12 | Widths: Medium, wide, x-wide | Heel-to-toe drop: 5 millimeters | Weight: 9.30 ounces
Best for Wide Feet: Brooks Ghost 16
Why we recommend it: Erik Sims, DPM, managing partner of Sims & Associates Podiatry in New York, recommends the Brooks Ghost to patients of all ages, noting that it strikes a good balance between comfort and style. And our 2023 Sneaker Awards tester recommended the previous version (the Ghost 15) to runners of all levels: “I’ve been running for six years now, have completed many races—including a half marathon—and have never loved a shoe so instantly or easily,” they said. “I would recommend these to any runner, from the casual jogger to the marathon trainer.”
This pair from Brooks uses a lightweight foam to cushion your feet without feeling clunky and has plenty of space through the upper (although it won’t feel like you’re swimming in them). It’s a good pick for arch pain too, Dr. Sims says.
Good for: cross-training, people who still like to feel the ground (as opposed to a walking-on-a-cloud sensation)
Sizes: US 5 to 13 | Widths: Narrow, medium, wide, extra wide | Heel-to-toe drop: 12 millimeters | Weight: 8.5 ounces | Materials: Mesh, synthetic fabric, foam, rubber
Best Hiking Boot: Hoka Kaha 3 GTX
Why we recommend it: Both Dr. Bhular and Nicholas Japs, DPT, a physical therapist at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Bridgeport, Connecticut, recommend Hoka’s Kaha boot for hikers with plantar fasciitis. They’re mostly impressed by how light it feels while still providing plenty of cushion, which is a tough balance to strike in a rugged, outdoorsy boot. Dr. Japs also points out the Kaha’s durable treaded outsole and ankle-wrapping cuff, both of which should help you feel more stable on the trail.
Good for: serious hikers, ankle support, high-cushion comfort while navigating trails
Sizes: US 5 to 11| Widths: Medium | Heel-to-toe drop: 7 millimeters | Weight: 16.80 ounces | Materials: Mesh, polyester, Nubuck leather, EVA, rubber, Gore-tex
Best Sandal: Oofos OOahh Slide
Why we recommend it: Not only are these foam-laden sandals approved by the APMA, but they’re also impressively versatile. “They’re perfect for running errands, going to the beach, camping, or sliding on as a recovery shoe post-run,” says a SELF writer who deals with plantar fasciitis. “I have high arches, and these provide a comfortable amount of contouring to help them feel properly supported. I bring them on every outdoorsy vacation—it feels SO GOOD to put them on after a hike or bike ride—and I swear by them for any walking around I have to do after a big race.”
“I wore these after the New York City and Chicago marathons when my feet were really struggling, and they felt like a massage for my tired, achy arches,” she adds. “These will be your go-to when you don’t want to lace up, but still need that extra support.” Enough said.
Good for: the beach, camping, running errands, post-run recovery
Sizes: US 5 to 16 | Widths: Medium | Heel-to-toe drop: N/A | Weight: 4.6 ounces | Materials: Foam, rubber
More great options
Although these shoes didn’t earn a top spot on our list, they still come recommended by SELF staffers and podiatrists. Some address additional foot issues, like overpronation (when your ankles roll inward while you stand or walk), while others don’t meet all of the criteria we took into account (but are still great options if you mainly deal with mild or occasional plantar fasciitis flare-ups).
- If you want stability with a side of style, try the On Cloudflyer 5 ($170, On). It has lots of impact-absorbing foam throughout the sole, plus a wide base for easy, steady landings. The molded heel counter and sock liner will help cradle your feet and keep them in place inside the shoe. “I feel gentle support without any hint of tight compression that sometimes comes with stability shoes,” one SELF tester says. “Because of this—along with the breathability from the mesh upper and A+ shock absorption with every step—it’s easy to forget I’m wearing shoes at all, when I have these on.”
- If you want something lighter than a hiking boot, try the Danner Trail 2650 ($170, REI). They’re the preferred hiking shoes of one SELF writer with plantar fasciitis. “I live in Colorado, and I’m hiking or trail running all the time, and I swear by these shoes,” she says. “They hit that sweet spot where they have enough structure to make me feel supported and secure, and enough flexibility to be comfortable and move with my feet over rocks and roots. I especially appreciate the protective heel cap and good traction. These are the type of shoes you can hike in right out of the box without any stiffness or pain.”
- If you deal with overpronation, try the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 ($140, Amazon). Its sizable heel-to-toe drop helps shift weight away from your heel, which should help relieve some pressure and pain, Dr. Japs explains. It also has solid cushioning and support (like many of our other top picks). One overpronating SELF tester says the GuideRails feature in the shoes help keep her foot from rolling: “When I have a flare, I feel discomfort with every step,” she says. “These stabilizing shoes keep my feet in place, letting me move about comfortably.”
- If you use custom orthotics, try the Saucony Echelon 10 ($150, Amazon). Dr. Sims often recommends Saucony’s Echelon line to people with plantar fasciitis because of its solid support. It’s one of the brand’s “comfort shoes,” meaning it has a thick foam footbed and a snug midfoot to keep your feet well-cushioned and stable. He also points out that it’s compatible with a wide range of inserts. However, people with narrower feet may find the Echelon too wide.
- If you want to pad around the house comfortably, try the OrthoFeet Charlotte ($90, Amazon). This slipper has orthotic-like inserts that provide arch support and foam cushioning under 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,” Susan Eby, PT, MS, owner of Eby Physical Therapy in New York City, tells SELF. “The toe box is also extra deep to accommodate any toe issues, with Velcro adjustment so the slipper fits snug to your feet.”
Frequently asked questions about plantar fasciitis
What is plantar fasciitis?
“Plantar fasciitis is inflammation and irritation of the plantar fascia, which is a broad, ligament-like structure that originates on the bottom of the heel bone and fans out across the arch on the bottom of your foot,” Alicia Canzanese, DPM, ATC, a board-certified podiatrist, athletic trainer, and former collegiate track athlete, tells SELF. “Picture it as a structure that’s supporting the arch.”
If this structure is inflamed, you’ll likely feel pain on the bottom of your heels, particularly when you get out of bed or take the first couple of steps after sitting for a while. That first-step stiffness may ease up as you move around, but the pain often gets worse with increased activity, like continued walking or running, Dr. Canzanese says.
What causes plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis can be caused by all kinds of things, like muscle imbalances and overuse. But one common precursor to the condition is doing a lot of activity in inadequate footwear, says Dr. Canzanese. Still, “footwear is only one piece of the puzzle,” she says. Some other factors that can make plantar fasciitis worse include tight calf muscles, repetitive high-impact activities like running, a rapid increase in weight-bearing activity, and standing or walking for long periods of time.
You can have plantar fasciitis with flat feet, high arches, wide feet, or narrow feet…. The condition doesn’t discriminate. So, Dr. Canzanese points out, it’s important to try many kinds of shoes to find out what feels good on your feet and offers the support you need. In other words, some shoes are better for plantar fasciitis than others (typically those that have more cushioning in the heel and good arch support), but there isn’t one kind of shoe that’s best for everyone.
How SELF tests and selects shoes for plantar fasciitis
For SELF’s Sneaker Awards, we tap staffers, everyday exercisers, and all kinds of experts (like avid runners, backpackers, professional trainers, and coaches) to test hundreds of shoes. They’ll wear their pairs for hours each day over months before determining which ones are truly the best. In this guide, we’ve included shoes that have been featured in past Sneaker Awards, so you can be sure they’ve been thoroughly vetted.
When we seek out recommendations outside of our yearly awards, we ask trusted experts in the field for the pairs they frequently suggest to clients. After hearing from foot health experts, we take a closer look at the shoes they recommended to make sure they have plantar-fasciitis-friendly features like extra padding, sturdy arch support, and a secure fit. We also consulted with SELF staffers and people who have tried some of these pairs firsthand (foot?) to see how they hold up with regular wear. From there, we highlighted the very best of the best in this list.
FAQs about shopping for shoes for plantar fasciitis
While no footwear can promise that you’ll stay pain-free, selecting well-cushioned and more supportive shoes is a solid step (heh) toward reducing discomfort in the future. If you’re still on the lookout for the right pair of shoes for you, here’s some criteria to keep in mind while you shop.
In general, the best shoes for plantar fasciitis will fit correctly (i.e., they’re not too small, and they’re wide enough to fit your foot comfortably). “You’ll want a shoe with a deep heel counter and plenty of midfoot arch support,” Dr. Gamez says.
Consider wearing your shoes with orthotics or insoles that have substantial heel cups to help with cushioning and shock absorption too, Eby adds. These inserts will also provide additional arch support, which can offer further pain relief, Yolanda Ragland, DPM, a podiatrist and founder of Fix Your Feet in New York City, tells SELF.
Avoid flat, non-supportive footwear like flimsy sandals or backless clogs, Dr. Gamez says. Those cute flip-flops that sell for $10? Probably not the best plantar fasciitis shoes. The same goes for sneakers without arch support (unless you add orthotics, heel cups, or insoles) and flats.
If you need dressier shoes for work or a special occasion, look for those with a slight heel (around a half inch) to minimize stretching the plantar fascia, as well as styles that stay on your foot without toe gripping (i.e., a shoe that has elastic or other straps to secure it to your foot).
Related:
- The Best Birkenstocks Are Classic, Comfy, and Chic
- The Best Weightlifting Shoes Can Improve Your Power and Form—Here Are 10 Expert-Approved Picks
- The Best Shoes for Bunions, According to Podiatrists
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