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Plantar fasciitis can make it difficult to walk, exercise, or sometimes even stand for any length of time.
It happens when the plantar fascia — a thick band of fibrous tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot — becomes irritated, creating an acute pain. While treatment for plantar fasciitis may be multifaceted and often requires taking a break from intense activity, it doesn’t usually mean you have to give up all activity. But finding shoes that properly support your feet is key.
Gregory Minnis, DPT, a physical therapist who assesses and treats foot injuries such as plantar fasciitis, says a proper shoe fit plus the following characteristics can help take the stress off inflamed or irritated plantar fascia:
good arch support
ample cushioning
a firm insole
The following shoe features may also help minimize symptoms of plantar fasciitis:
heel stability
a slightly elevated heel (1–1.5 inches)
a firm midsole
a thick outsole, sometimes with a rocker bottom to avoid overstretching your plantar fascia when you walk
Minnis emphasizes that no one shoe will work perfectly for everyone with plantar fasciitis. “Shoes are very personal,” he says. “Everyone’s foot is shaped differently and moves a little differently. At the end of the day, the shoe that is best is the one you can comfortably walk in.”
To help you find your right shoe, we researched, polled, and reviewed more than 30 pairs from the brands most trusted by podiatrists and beloved by people with plantar fasciitis. Here are our recommendations.
Pricing guide
Shoes that are best for plantar fasciitis, like any shoes, will range in price depending on the materials used and the intended activity. While you can find good, supportive shoes at multiple price points, those featured on our list range in price from less than $40 to almost $200.
We interviewed experts about what types of construction, cushioning, and design were important when comparing shoes for plantar fasciitis pain. We polled users, scoured reviews, read studies, and landed on more than a dozen brands and shoes to consider.
Finally, we put all our selections through our robust vetting process to ensure that we were recommending high quality products that do what they promise.
“Go to a footwear store with a knowledgeable staff who will let you try on a variety of shoes. You want to walk liberally in the shoes before you buy them to make sure they are comfortable.”
Being mindful of the shoes you’re wearing is an essential aspect of healing from plantar fasciitis. You’ll want to prioritize key factors such as adequate arch support and cushioning. It’s also important to consider which activities you’ll be performing while wearing the shoes.
It can be especially helpful to seek shoe recommendations from your podiatrist, review shoe brands that have earned the APMA Seal of Acceptance, or enlist the help of a sales associate while shopping.
Mostly, says Minnis, you’ll want to try on a lot of different shoes to find the right pair for you.
“Go to a footwear store with a knowledgeable staff who will let you try on a variety of shoes,” he says. “You want to walk liberally in the shoes before you buy them to make sure they are comfortable.”
Key considerations
Arch support
“The plantar fascia helps maintain the arch during gait/walking,” Minnis says. “Proper-fitting footwear and good arch support can take stress off of the inflamed or irritated plantar fascia.”
How much and what type of arch support will depend on your foot. For example, if you have flat feet, you’ll likely want ample arch support. But if you have a higher arch, you may want a shoe with less restriction to promote greater mobility.
Rigid sole, midfoot cushioning, and heel drop
A firm sole and midfoot cushioning are important to tame plantar fasciitis symptoms.
Another important issue is the heel drop, according to Minnis. This is the vertical difference between the heel and the front of the shoe. The ideal drop for people with plantar fasciitis is 3–4 centimeters (1–1.5 inches), he says.
“This can reduce the load on the plantar fascia,” Minnis says. He adds that the heel should be stable, with a firm counter, or material forming the back of a shoe the supports the heel.
Soft impact with the ground
In addition to considering comfort, look for a shoe that provides the least impact when your foot strikes a hard surface. Ample undersole cushioning and the use of outer sole materials that lessen impact are ideal.
Shoes without arch support and heel stability can worsen symptoms of plantar fasciitis. The results of a small 2022 study suggest that improper footwear may even cause plantar fasciitis.
“Flats or shoes with a high heel and minimal arch support will increase stress on the plantar fascia,” Minnis explains.
No matter the type, any shoe that causes uncomfortable pressure points or makes your feet hurt should be swapped for something more comfortable.
If you’ve tried multiple shoes that were supposed to be more supportive and your symptoms have persisted, orthotics may help. They can add support and stability to any shoe.
Minnis recommends trying a reputable brand of over-the-counter (OTC) orthotics before investing in expensive custom orthotics. “In my experience, many people get relief from OTC orthotics,” he says. “If the OTC ones don’t work, then custom orthotics may be required.”
Recovering from plantar fasciitis requires patience, especially if you’re usually an active person. If you don’t let your feet heal properly, there’s a good chance the condition will come back. While you don’t need to stay completely off your feet, taking a break from intense or high impact activities is necessary for your condition to improve.
Recovery might take a few months or even a year, but there are ways you can help the healing process. In addition to rest, treatment options may include:
Something in the middle is best. Shoes that are too hard may irritate your plantar fascia, but those that are too soft may not have the support and stability necessary to avoid overstretching your plantar fascia.
Ideally, you’re looking for a cushioned but rigid midsole paired with good arch support.
Crocs can be suitable for plantar fasciitis, but only if you choose the classic style, which has good cushioning, a fairly rigid sole, and a reinforced heel.
This Classic Lined Croc may fit the bill. This model is lined with faux fur, which adds a bit more cushioning and helps you avoid sweat and slipperiness inside the shoe.
You may want to increase the arch support by inserting an OTC orthotic such as the ProTech 3/4 Orthotic.
You’ll want to avoid the more fashion-oriented Croc models, which may lack the cushioning and support of the classic model.
When it comes to choosing a shoe for plantar fasciitis, your best bet is to talk with a specialist — either a podiatrist or a physical therapist — and try on a lot of different styles.
You want to find a shoe that combines arch support, midsole stability, and cushioning. You’ll be able to find these features in a variety of sneakers, oxfords, slip-ons, and clogs and even some sandals.
While every shoe discussed in this article is designed to provide support and comfort, your goal is to find the one that feels best on your feet.
Last medically reviewed on March 6, 2024
How we reviewed this article:
Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.
