The Best Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis in 2021

People with a plantar fasciitis condition require shoes with additional support at the plantar fascia part of the feet. These shoes are specifically made to absorb the impacts felt by the tissues and tendons on the heels. Therefore, to effectively reduce the sharp stabbing pain felt when you make steps as you walk, you need the best walking shoes for plantar fasciitis.

10 Best Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis 2021

1. Orthofeet Plantar Fasciitis Orthopedic Diabetic Walking Shoes

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Overview

Do you want a shoe brand specifically made for those with plantar fasciitis condition? This particular product from Orthofeet is an ideal choice and is pretty popular too. It comes with a premium orthotic insole which you can remove and replace with yours as you wish.

The insole features anatomical support as well as a well-cushioned heel pad. As you walk, the heel pad conforms to your heel outline, thereby alleviating the pain felt. An easy Gait Ortho sole cushioning system features air cushioning for softening of your steps during a walk.

For those with knee pains, this adaptive cushioning system enhances the shoe stability so that you can walk for long periods without feeling pain at the joints. The toe box is considerably wide, as the upper provides non-binding, comfortable wear.

Under your heel is a gel padding that absorbs impacts from your every step. The arch support is decent and comfortable at the same time. You can remove the orthotic insole it comes with. Overall, it is a decent choice for a shoe, although there are a couple of complaints concerning durability and the fact that it runs small.

2. Saucony ProGrid Integrity ST2 Walking Shoe

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Overview

The Saucony ProGrid combines popularity, great pricing, and functionality to create one of the best walking shoes for plantar fasciitis. With a stretch zone for the forefoot, users get a more forgiving and comfortable, snug fitting shoes for everyday use. Here is the men’s version.

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A PROGRID cushioning system greatly reduces the shoe weight while still maintaining excellent performance. The system works in hand with the non-marking rubber outsole to absorb ground impacts before they are felt by your feet. Padded tongue adds comfort.

Non-marking soles make the shoes great for indoors use. When there is a need, you can use the shoes for the outdoors as the rubber outsoles generate sufficient traction even on slippery grounds. Its shaft is approximately low-top when measured from the arch.

A full-grain leather used to make the shoe upper makes it flexible enough to be worn for long periods. The cushioned insole optimizes support for both pronators and neutral walkers. These shoes are wide, which might present a challenge for those with narrow feet.

3. Orthofeet Verve Orthopedic Plantar Fasciitis Athletic Shoes

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Overview

For the natural feet motion, the Orthofeet Verve orthopedic shoes offer impressive capabilities. And for those looking for some sort of pain relief, this shoe brand reduces football pain, heel pain, low back pain, knee pain, and arch pain.

A wide and deep toe box design enables you to wriggle your toes naturally. This mechanism adds to the comfort levels you feel when you have the shoes on. In effect, people who have arthritis, diabetic, and have sensitive feet can use them quite comfortably.

Apart from being designed to offer therapeutic features from plantar fasciitis, these shoes can be used for the usual walks. You don’t have to be in pain to benefit from their impressive comfort levels.

Impressive anatomical support, protection at the pressure points, ergonomic cushioning, and an orthotic insole are all meant to soften your every step when walking. The inclusion of a Velcro function is well intended, but the shoes end up being a little looser than a lace-up one.

4. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 18 Running Shoe

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Overview

Although it is predominantly used as running shoes, you can comfortably use the Asics as walking shoes. It is available in two options. The first one is for males, while here is the second option for women. A total of six different colors are available for either option you choose.

The meshed upper combines textile materials for comfort reinforced with synthetic for added durability. A rubber outsole generates a sufficient amount of traction and cushioning from impacts when you decide to hit the road.

FluidRide midsole cushioning technique gives it exceptional durability, bounce back properties, and cushioning of your heels from impacts. In addition, both rearfoot and forefoot have a gel cushioning mechanism that attenuates impacts during foot transitions in the gait cycle.

FluidFit technology on the upper stretches in multi-directions as it adapts to your foot. This feature is great as the reinforcements, in turn; create a glove-like fit. Unlike the previous designs with enough toe box space, this one is a little small, making toes rub on another.

5. Vionic Walker Classic Shoes

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Overview

The leather construction of the Vionic Walker Classic shoes is popular among both men and women. On the inside is a removable ethyl vinyl acetate footbed covered with a high-quality textile fabric. The footbed is elevated at 0.5” to smoothen heel-to-toe transition during walks.

Rubber outsoles are both durable and non-slip on wet slippery surfaces. An advanced Active Motion System (AMS) technology combines an orthotic insert and a flexible outsole. It is an engineering design meant to relieve pain from plantar fasciitis among other foot pains.

Breathability properties of the upper mesh make the shoes comfortable to wear in hot weather. Your feet also don’t get crammed up in the process. Add to the lightweight nature of the shoes; then you have great shoes for going to work, playing or everyday use.

There are many different colors to choose from depending on your preferences. Sizing too is availed in a variety. The outsoles are made to be slip-resistant. If you work on a concrete floor for considerable hours and have high arches, these shoes might become uncomfortable for you after a while.

6. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 18

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Overview

Brooks is one of the leading manufacturers of high-quality walking shoes for plantar fasciitis. It is no wonder their Adrenaline GTS 18 shoes are held in high regards in the market. Both men and women have distinct shoe choices. Here is the one for women.

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Do you overpronate alongside the plantar fasciitis pain? Here is a great shoe option for you. With a progressive diagonal roll bar and a tri-density midsole, your heel to toe transitions of a stride gets subtler. It has a high energizing cushion to make for gentle impacts on your feet.

Shoes that wear out are common nuisance shoe owners want to avoid. Fortunately, this product is designed such that the high wear zones on the outsole are reinforced with a higher strength material for the construction.

Inside the shoe features a fabric lining. It is an addition that makes the shoe comfortable to wear even for long hours. You should not have to worry about your feet sweating in case you get caught up in hot weather. The meshed upper allows for the free-flow of air in and out the shoes.

7. New Balance Mx608v4 Walking Shoe

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Overview

Are you a regular New Balance customer? If yes, then here is an ideal choice to ease your plantar fasciitis worries. Breathability is enhanced by the inclusion of a textile shoe lining and an ethyl vinyl acetate footbed. The New Balance WX608V4 Women’s walking shoes are also available.

A laced up closure is great when you want to be able to determine the level of tightness your shoe should have. Whether you choose the men’s or women’s version, there are numerous colors from which to make a choice.

Enhanced cushioning features at the heel of the shoe is a feature you would love. It is essential in alleviating potential impacts that could be transferred to your painful feet. For your arches, an absorb midsole offers support and comfort in every stride.

The shoe upper is made from leather for durability, while its rubber sole gives it great traction and impact absorbing properties. Another great feature is the non-marking rubber outsole. You, therefore, don’t have to worry about it leaving marks on your floor when indoors.

8. New Balance Men’s MW928 Walking Shoe

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Overview

The best part about the New Balance shoes is the excellent cushioning and resistance against compression. Their ABZORB feature uses thick rubber on the outsole to make the shoe highly cushioned and resistant to compression.

These features aid the shoe in absorbing forceful external impacts and gives it sufficient grip. In addition to the rubber outsole, it has a well-padded shoe collar and tongue to attenuate potential stiffness felt on the feet.

It comes in a classic leather look with a lace up closure. These are both stylish and provide a secure fit at all times. A stabilizing roll bar technology makes the shoe stable so as to eliminate some of the pain you might feel.

It has a phantom liner that is resistant to odor. With this feature, the shoe does not develop a foul smell so long as you clean them regularly. The shaft measures about 2.33 inches from the shoe arch. Despite being well-functioning, the appearance might be a turnoff for many customers.

9. Brooks Addiction Walker Walking Shoes

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Overview

With an expected fit rate of 85%, this walking shoe is a great option for you. The leather design gives these shoes the famed plush look in them. Made from a synthetic material, the outsoles provide sufficient traction while still being resistant to wear.

Also included in the design is a Hydroflow technology on both forefoot and the rear of the shoes. It is the feature that gives it the great cushioning property, preventing shocks from being felt by the foot. In turn, less strain is transferred to your plantar ligaments.

To better the shock absorbing properties of the shoe brand, it also has a MOGO midsole tech-infused in the midsole. This midsole cushioning offers support to your arches while reducing pain resulting from aggravated plantar fasciitis condition.

Better still, a third layer of cushioning in the form of an S-257 Cushsole optimizes comfort by reducing some of the resulting impacts. The shoe’s full grain leather upper has a soft feel and is easy on your feet. Since the sole is made from synthetics, tractions are not so great.

10. Vionic Women’s Flex Sierra Lace-up

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Overview

This Vionic Flex Sierra shoe is one of those that offer you a smooth transition in every step, from the toe through to the heels. The meshed upper is made from leather for a classic shoe appearance which is comfy on the upper part of your foot. What’s more, it is available in six different colors that you can comfortably choose from.

With its rubber sole, you can be always sure of getting the best grip as you walk around in all types of terrains. The outsole is also very durable and will therefore provide you with a long lasting product. This shoe brand also has a removable EVA footbed that is mesh covered to provide you with absolute comfort as you deal with your plantar fasciitis condition.

However, there exist several concerns about the quality of this shoe from some of the customers who have used it. First, some people complain of the lack of an arch support. Other people are also just not pleased with the level of support that these shoes provide.

How to Choose the Best Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

When looking for the best walking shoes for plantar fasciitis, there are certain features that you need to give due consideration. They are what distinguish a pair of shoes that would be great for you or not. Here is a detailed buying guide to ease things along.

1. Sufficient Arch Support

First things first, you need a pair of shoes with good arch support if you are to alleviate some of the pain you are feeling right now. Good support for your arches prevents excessive pronation as well as maintaining the natural position of your foot in the course of any activity.

For this, you need to consider what type of arch your foot has. There are three: the neutral arch, low arch (flat feet), and a high arch. Each of these arch-types has a varying fit and comfort levels, depending on the arch support provided by the pair of shoes.

Look for a well-cushioned midsole with sufficient support at the heels. Otherwise, if you choose a stiff one, then the impacts resulting from the contact between the shoes and the ground/floor would be transferred to your plantar ligaments. The result is an aggravated foot condition.

2. Comfortable Insoles and Shoe Lining

For someone with a plantar fasciitis condition, staying comfortable in your shoes should be your top priority. Having the wrong choice of insole would make the pain worse than it was before, more so if you wear the shoes for long.

A key consideration is the amount of comfort the insole provides at the pressure points. Some shoe options include a gel cushioning system inside the insole so that it contributes to the overall shock absorbing capabilities.

A flat insole leads to a less efficient foot shape transition from the toes back to the heels. As a result, you will feel discomfort in your foot ligament as more pressure is exerted on your arches.

As an alternative, you have the choice of using custom orthotics recommended by your podiatrist for the most comfortable fit.

3. Level of Cushioning

As earlier mentioned, we prioritize the overall cushioning of the shoes, particularly for your sensitive feet. Prioritize a cushioning mechanism which contours to your foot structure. Gel cushioning is one of the most effective mechanisms for the forefoot.

It should also extend through the length of the shoes for the most efficient shock absorption. A rubber sole aids the midsole in absorbing most of the impacts from your steps. In addition, rubber gives the shoes a proper grip of the ground you step on if the floor is wet.

4. Ethyl Vinyl Acetate for the Midsole

Of the available materials, we don’t think any provides better shock absorbing properties than ethyl Vinyl Acetate (EVA). The soles featuring this material offer you better plantar pressure reduction than most of the other available ones.

5. Effective Motion Control

When you have pronation problems, rolling of your foot as you walk worsens the pain you feel. Motion control, therefore, prevents the inward or outward movement of the foot (pronation). In effect, you reduce your chances of tearing the plantar since you walk in the appropriate gait.

6. Wide Toe Box

Have you ever worn shoes that crammed up your toes together? The excruciating pain and discomfort felt afterward is something avoidable by prioritizing a wide toes box when making a purchase.

The rule of thumbs for a toe box is that your middle-foot and rearfoot should effortlessly roll at the front of the foot. While a too large box might be fancy, it may promote too much extension of the big toe. Too much toe movement results in a windlass mechanism that tightens the plantar ligament.

If you can buy the shoe physically at a store, try to bend it upwards. The best shoe for you would have the toe box bend as the rest of the shoe remains intact.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are these shoes usable with orthotic inserts?

A: Yes, there are products which you can remove the midsole insert and replace with your custom heel cup or orthotic. In this way, you can add to the comfort levels of the shoes that were previously absent.

Q: Who else needs shoes meant for plantar fasciitis?

A: There are numerous conditions which may necessitate the use of a comfortable, extra cushioned shoe. If you have flat feet, knee pain, shin pain, heel pain, arthritis, ankle sprains, etc. the list of therapeutic uses is long. To establish if you need one, talk to your physician first.

Q: My shoes have a slight squeak on them. What could be the reason?

A: Squeaks are often caused by an improper fit of your shoe or the insole itself. If it is in the insole, particularly the inserts, then you might want to trim them correctly for a glove-like fit.

Q: How do I pick the right shoe size?

A: Most of the manufacturers have a sizing chart for their shoes. However, some of them have a tendency of running either small or large. Look at the reviews and see whether it fits its right size or if you would be required to downsize and upsize.

Q: After how long should I expect to feel some sort of relief from the pain?

A: Time duration varies, depending on how long you wear the shoes and the severity of the problem. All factors held constant; pain relief can be realized after 1 to 8 days of regular shoe use.

Conclusion

If you feel regular pain on your heel when you walk for a few steps when you were relaxed, then it could be possible that you have a plantar fasciitis condition. Treatment options are available. Having the right shoes also help give you some relief from the pain, as a complementary treatment.

Any ordinary shoe will work for you. You need the best walking shoes for plantar fasciitis. In this buying guide and review, we have included the top products that you can rely on for functionality.

We feel that the Orthofeet Plantar Fasciitis Orthopedic Diabetic Walking Shoes for women is the best at giving you relief from tight plantar ligaments as you walk. It has an excellent orthotic insole that supports your arches. There is a heel pad to cushion your affected heel area from impacts.

As you walk, the cushioning contours around your foot for enhanced support. A biomechanically designed cushioning system alleviates joint pains, hammertoes, and bunions. This shoe brand also provides relief from an array of other pains.

For men, the ASICS  Gel Nimbus 18 Walking Shoes are the best according to us. They have a rubber sole which is long lasting and provided the best grip as well. They feature both rear foot and front foot cushioning. What’s more, the seamless construction used to manufacture them is just another additional feature that makes us recommend them. These will best handle your plantar fasciitis condition as you would love them to do.

With all these features in mind, we feel that these two shoe models are the top choice for your plantar fasciitis condition whether you are a lady or man.