How do you treat plantar fasciitis?

There are a variety of treatments that can be used here, beginning with giving your feet a break from any activities that may be aggravating the condition and allowing them to rest. It may also help to ice your heel to tamp down swelling, as well as to take over-the-counter pain medication like Aleve (naproxen) or Advil or Motrin (ibuprofen). Adam H. Kaplan, DPM , a podiatrist and member of the Verywell Health Medical Review board, recommends an ice bottle massage . Roll your foot over a frozen water bottle with light pressure for 20 minutes, then rest for 20 minutes. He suggests repeating this for as long as you want, and to watch out for frostbite. You may also try to stretch and strengthen your foot , beginning with your toes. With a toe stretch, sit in a chair with just your heel on the floor. Reach down and pull your big toe toward you for up to 30 seconds. You can do this several times a day for up to four times each. In terms of how long plantar fasciitis can last, that depends on your particular case. In some cases, pain begins to go away in just a few weeks after beginning treatment. Still, keep in mind it may take several months for this to completely heal. In some cases, it may even take as long as one year.

What causes plantar fasciitis to flare up?

If you're prone to plantar fasciitis, you want to be careful when doing any kind of high-impact workout, especially if this is what led to the condition in the first place. So, if your work requires you to stand on hard surfaces for long stretches, see if you can modify this, perhaps by regularly wearing more cushioned shoes. If weight was an issue , keeping a few extra pounds at bay may help somewhat to reduce the chances of a flare-up.

What does plantar fasciitis feel like?

According to Dr. Kaplan, the number one way to tell you have plantar fasciitis is if you feel pain after a period of rest. For example, if you feel pain as you take your first few steps after being seated or at rest. With plantar fasciitis, each time you walk, your heel may feel extremely tender, as though you have a bone bruise there on your heel right where it meets the ground. Every time you place your heel down, you may feel this stabbing pain. Sometimes the pain may also be in the arch of the foot and may increase after exercising. It's important to not ignore this and to reach out for treatment as soon as possible.

What shoes should I avoid if I have plantar fasciitis?

When treating plantar fasciitis, you should avoid shoes that put too much pressure on the foot, like high-heeled shoes and sneakers with a significant heel drop. Tight or poorly-fitting shoes can also stop the foot from moving naturally, which can aggravate plantar fasciitis symptoms. It's also important to select new shoes with well-cushioned soles and good arch support, avoiding flimsier shoes like flip-flops and sandals that don't offer support. Shoe inserts or heel cups may also be helpful. But be sure to use these in both of your shoes, even if plantar fasciitis is only affecting one foot.

The 12 Best Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis of 2023

HOKA ONE ONE Bondi SR Leather Trainers — Verywell Health / Jessica Juliao

According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, approximately two million people are treated for plantar fasciitis—a common condition that causes pain in the bottom of the foot, under the arch and heel—every year. One of the best ways to minimize symptoms of plantar fasciitis is by protecting your feet with proper shoes, according to Sean Peden, MD, foot and ankle surgeon at Yale Medicine Department of Orthopaedics & Rehabilitation.

While there is not one specific shoe that works for all people, Dr. Peden recommends looking for ones with support and flexibility: "shoes with more support and protection—meaning they are relatively stiff and cushioned—improve the symptoms of people with plantar fasciitis,” he says.

We researched dozens of shoes for plantar fasciitis and chose the best ones based on the following attributes: cushioning, support, cost, and style. We also consulted experts, including Dr. Peden. Each of the shoes chosen in this article was determined to be the best of these factors.

Based on our research, here are the best shoes for plantar fasciitis.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

HOKA Bondi SR Leather Trainers at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Women's:

ASICS Women's GT-2000 8 Running Shoes at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Men's:

Asics Gel-Kayano 28 at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

Asics Gel-Nimbus 23 at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Running:

Brooks Ghost 14 at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Walking:

Brooks Addiction Walker at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Dress Shoes:

Clarks Warren Slip-On Loafer at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Boots:

Nisolo Everyday Chelsea Boot at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Slipper:

Orthofeet Charlotte Slippers at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Sandal:

Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed Sandal at Amazon

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
How We Selected
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Health

4.4

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Plush cushioning
Grippy sole
Water resistant

Cons

High price-point
Take time to break in

Made with the brand's ultra-plush EVA midsole, the HOKA ONE ONE Bondi SR Leather Trainers provide comfort and stability with each step, making it our best overall pick. “These are a newer brand that is very supportive with firm soles but generous cushioning,” explains Dr. Paden, who maintains that they are excellent for people with all kinds of foot conditions. “My patients rave about that. They are dependable and seem to have good longevity.” It is also ultra-grippy and has been tested on surfaces with water, oil, and soap for slip resistance. What's more, its water-resistant leather exterior keeps your feet dry while looking fresh.

Price at time of publication: $226

Materials: Leather, EVA | Sizes: 5-11 | Cushioning: Foam | Arch Support: Moderate

4.9

Amazon

Pros

Plenty of cushioning
Heel-stabilizing system
Lightweight

Cons

May run small

The Asics GT-2000 8 is our top women's pick thanks to its heel-stabilizing design and cushion that's plush without weighing you down. The Asics gel technology cushioning at the front and back of the shoe reduces impact as you land, which is great for lessening pressure on the heel and lower leg for those with plantar fasciitis.

Available in both wide and narrow sizes, this shoe also ensures you'll get a perfect fit no matter your foot shape. It's also available in eight colors for easy wear.

Price at time of publication: $136

Materials: Polyester, Foam, Mesh | Sizes: 5-12 | Cushioning: Foam | Arch Support: High

4.2

Amazon

Pros

Available in three widths
Shock-absorption system
Compression system that helps with pronation

Cons

May not have as much stability for lighter people

These low-profile running shoes are a great choice for curbing plantar fasciitis symptoms. With a 10 mm heel drop, they take the stress off your foot without being bulky. The brand's FF Blast foam cushioning in the midsole keeps feet arches supported and comfortable.

We also like the shoe's external heel counter and Dynamic DuoMax Support System stabilizes feet as you walk, which is great for pronation and flat feet—a condition that's linked to plantar fasciitis. They're also available in three widths—standard, wide, and extra wide—for perfect fit and support.

Price at time of publication: $160

Materials: Foam, Rubber, Mesh | Sizes: 6-15 | Cushioning: Foam | Arch Support: Max

4.7

Zappos

Pros

Shock-absorbing sole
Light-reflective details
Heel design targets plantar fasciitis

Cons

Run small
Fabric shows wear

Dr. Peden maintains that Asics are a great sneaker for anyone on a budget. While many of the running or walking shoes on our list retail for over $100, this brand favored by many runners has many styles around the $80 price point. The Asics Gel-Nimbus is one of their more popular running shoes and is a great option for anyone who suffers from heel pain.

The shoe is supportive and well-cushioned, featuring the brand’s FlyteFoam Propel Technology and exoskeletal heel counter that targets the problem area. As far as aesthetics, it is available in a wide range of color combinations, all with reflectivity in order to enhance visibility.

Price at time of publication: $100

Materials: Polyester, Foam | Sizes: 5-13 | Cushioning: Foam | Arch Support: Moderate

Amazon

Pros

Lightweight and breathable
Available in multiple widths
Well cushioned

Cons

Narrow toe box
Not waterproof

Brooks Ghost collection earned its name for one reason: They are so comfortable you will forget you're wearing shoes at all. It's the sneaker brand’s best-selling model and is incredibly popular at specialty running stores.

The Ghost 14 is the latest offering in the collection. It features DNA Loft cushioning, keeping the bottom of your feet—from the heel to the forefoot—comfortable no matter what type of surface you're walking on. The shoe is also incredibly breathable, made out of air mesh that clings to your foot. The Brooks Ghost is offered in a variety of colors, sizes, and widths, making it easy to find just the right fit.

Price at time of publication: $140

Materials: EVA | Sizes: 5-13 | Cushioning: EVA Foam | Arch Support: Moderate

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Max arch support
Durable
Cushioned heel and forefoot

Cons

Limited colors

The Brooks Addiction Walker is a doctor-recommended, patient-endorsed walking shoe for people of all ages. While the shoe is incredibly simple in appearance, the construction of the highly-rated walking shoe is more complex. It features midsole HydroFlow technology, which adds extra cushioning with dynamic gel units in the heel and forefoot.

As for arch support, which is key for those who suffer from plantar fasciitis, its Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar will cradle your tendons offering ample support.

Price at time of publication: $145

Materials: Leather | Sizes: 5-12 | Cushioning: Gel | Arch Support: Max

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Grippy outsole
Half sizes and different widths available
Durable

Cons

Run narrow

While Clarks shoes are “not dirt cheap,” they are “well made” and built to last, according to Dr. Peden. “They are the shoes I wore for years during my training,” he says. The brand dates back to 1825 and is still one of the best-selling shoe brands nearly 200 years later.

Their popular Emslie Warren style is a heeled bootie, that offers a dressy look with the comfort level of a clog or sneaker; you get all the benefits of a comfortable shoe without sacrificing style. It features the brand's trademark Cushion Soft foam comfort footbed, offering ample support as well as a durable TR rubber traction outsole to keep you from slipping. It is available in a few color options as well as whole and half sizes and different widths, so you can customize it to your foot and desired aesthetic.

Price at time of publication: $56

Materials: Leather | Sizes: 5-12 | Cushioning: Foam | Arch Support: Moderate

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Water resistant
Memory foam footbed
Ethically made

Cons

Limited sizes
Light arch support

If you are looking for a timeless boot that doesn’t resemble an orthopedic shoe whatsoever, Dr. Peden suggests Nisolo, who incorporates supportive leather footbeds in their stylish boots. “I love this brand,” he says. “Great style well made with ethical practices. An overall good company and I’m happy with their shoes.”

The Chelsea is basically the most comfortable version of that trendy boot you see in every magazine spread. Available in a nutmeg suede and a smooth leather black and brandy, it is a perfect addition to any of your outfits, ranging from jeans and leggings to skirts and dresses.

Price at time of publication: $100

Materials: Leather | Sizes: 6-10 | Cushioning: Leather | Arch Support: Light

Amazon

Pros

High arch support
Anatomically-desgned orthotic
Sturdy sole

Cons

Not the most stylish

If you're looking for a pair of slippers that actually help your feet while being cozy, Orthofeet's Charlotte Slippers are a podiatrist favorite. They offer plenty of arch support and an anatomical orthotic that provides proper foot alignment. They also feature a plush faux fur interior, along with a sturdy sole that's perfect for continued support if you take them outside.

Price at time of publication: $105

Materials: Leather, Polyurethane foam | Sizes: 5-12 | Cushioning: Foam | Arch Support: High

4.9

Amazon

Pros

Moldable footbed
Many colors
Easy to adjust

Cons

Takes time to break in
Expensive

Shoes don't have to be full coverage to be supportive. Birkenstocks are known for being extra comfortable, thanks to their footbeds that mold to your feet over time. Flat feet? The cork footbed will mold to your foot to deliver plenty of arch support just where you need it; this way, your shoe will have support designed uniquely for you. The Birkenstock Arizona also has two adjustable straps, ensuring you get a perfect fit to keep plantar fasciitis symptoms at bay.

Price at time of publication: $140

Materials: Suede, Leather, Cork, EVA | Sizes: 4-12 | Cushioning: Cork | Arch Support: High

Amazon

Pros

Deep heel cup
Cooling material
High arch

Cons

Run small
May wear out quickly

If you want to transform one of your current shoes into one that is plantar fasciitis friendly—or you just want to up your comfort level—inserts can be incredibly helpful. For those who prefer a softer insert, Walk Hero is a popular brand for plantar fasciitis support. The super supportive insoles feature a soft EVA foam layer and a deep heel cup, which helps align your body and give your feet proper positioning. It also provides support and cushioning, transferring pressure away from high-impact areas, such as your heels. They are sized in regular shoe sizes, so you can order the size you normally wear.

Price at time of publication: $20

Materials: EVA Foam | Sizes: Men's: 4-15; Women's: 6-14 | Cushioning: Foam | Arch Support: High

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Wide size range
Odor control
Deep heel cup

Cons

Can be difficult to cut

For those who aren’t a fan of soft inserts, Dr. Peden suggests Superfeet. “Superfeet tend to be a bit firmer,” he explains. Superfeet are available in a variety of “colors,” each with a different combination of thickness and arch support. Blue is their most popular style catering to medium thickness and arch or medium volume and profile.

Constructed out of high-density foam to support and cushion the foot, they are shaped to take the pressure off problem areas while offering all the support you need to comfortably get through the day.

Price at time of publication: $43

Materials: Polyester, Foam | Sizes: Men's: 5.5-15; Women's: 4.5-13 | Cushioning: Foam | Arch Support: Medium

How We Selected the Best Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

The best shoes for plantar fasciitis support your feet with plenty of cushioning and have sturdy construction. When selecting the shoes for plantar fasciitis, we researched dozens of products to find the most effective options. We also spoke to foot specialists, including a podiatrist and a foot and ankle surgeon, to find out what other features you should look for when looking to treat plantar fasciitis symptoms.

We considered comfort, arch support, style, cushioning, and sizing when choosing products. Our list includes shoes that help to treat plantar fasciitis in any environment, from work to home, along with inserts to curb foot pain.

What to Look for in Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

Comfort

Most importantly, you need to select a shoe that is comfortable for you. Just because it works for other people or gets fabulous reviews doesn’t mean you will find comfort in it.

One of the most important parts of finding a shoe for plantar fasciitis is fit. Shoes that are too tight can worsen your foot pain and further aggravate the plantar fascia, the band that runs from your toes to your heel. If you have wider feet, look for shoes that have multiple widths to ensure you'll get the best possible fit.

You should also consider cushioning when choosing a shoe. Plenty of cushioning can help in the midsole with arch support, especially for people with flat feet, but too much soft cushioning can aggravate your plantar fascia without supporting it.

Support

Shoes for plantar fasciitis should have good support, both in their cushioning and construction. “A good shoe should be difficult to bend. If you can wring the shoe out like a wet dishtowel, it is too flexible,” says Dr. Peden.

Because plantar fasciitis affects the plantar fascia, a band that runs through the arch of your foot, arch support is one of the most important features to look for when treating pain.

Style

As Dr. Peden stated, when investing in a shoe for plantar fasciitis, you should consider your lifestyle first and foremost. Are you looking for a workout shoe? Or are you on your feet all day in the healthcare or service industry? Do you need something a little dressier? There are lots of different styles; you just need to choose the one that will serve you best.

There are supportive shoes for any occasion that help to manage plantar fasciitis. While running shoes are often one of the go-to options thanks to their more traditional design with arch support and cushion, there are dress shoes, slippers, and even sandals available to keep your arches supported. You can also use hard or soft inserts to manage your symptoms in any kind of shoe.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you treat plantar fasciitis?

There are a variety of treatments that can be used here, beginning with giving your feet a break from any activities that may be aggravating the condition and allowing them to rest. It may also help to ice your heel to tamp down swelling, as well as to take over-the-counter pain medication like Aleve (naproxen) or Advil or Motrin (ibuprofen).
Adam H. Kaplan, DPM, a podiatrist and member of the Verywell Health Medical Review board, recommends an ice bottle massage. Roll your foot over a frozen water bottle with light pressure for 20 minutes, then rest for 20 minutes. He suggests repeating this for as long as you want, and to watch out for frostbite.
You may also try to stretch and strengthen your foot, beginning with your toes. With a toe stretch, sit in a chair with just your heel on the floor. Reach down and pull your big toe toward you for up to 30 seconds. You can do this several times a day for up to four times each.
In terms of how long plantar fasciitis can last, that depends on your particular case. In some cases, pain begins to go away in just a few weeks after beginning treatment. Still, keep in mind it may take several months for this to completely heal. In some cases, it may even take as long as one year.
What causes plantar fasciitis to flare up?

If you're prone to plantar fasciitis, you want to be careful when doing any kind of high-impact workout, especially if this is what led to the condition in the first place.
So, if your work requires you to stand on hard surfaces for long stretches, see if you can modify this, perhaps by regularly wearing more cushioned shoes. If weight was an issue, keeping a few extra pounds at bay may help somewhat to reduce the chances of a flare-up.
What does plantar fasciitis feel like?

According to Dr. Kaplan, the number one way to tell you have plantar fasciitis is if you feel pain after a period of rest. For example, if you feel pain as you take your first few steps after being seated or at rest.
With plantar fasciitis, each time you walk, your heel may feel extremely tender, as though you have a bone bruise there on your heel right where it meets the ground. Every time you place your heel down, you may feel this stabbing pain.
Sometimes the pain may also be in the arch of the foot and may increase after exercising. It's important to not ignore this and to reach out for treatment as soon as possible.
What shoes should I avoid if I have plantar fasciitis?

When treating plantar fasciitis, you should avoid shoes that put too much pressure on the foot, like high-heeled shoes and sneakers with a significant heel drop. Tight or poorly-fitting shoes can also stop the foot from moving naturally, which can aggravate plantar fasciitis symptoms.
It's also important to select new shoes with well-cushioned soles and good arch support, avoiding flimsier shoes like flip-flops and sandals that don't offer support. Shoe inserts or heel cups may also be helpful. But be sure to use these in both of your shoes, even if plantar fasciitis is only affecting one foot.

Why Trust Verywell Health

As an internationally recognized health writer and product guru, Leah Groth understands that nobody wants to waste their time or money on products that fail to rear results. Over the years, she has interviewed the world's top health experts and reviewed hundreds of items to help readers like you discover the most effective health gadgets, goops, and aids that will help you look and feel your very best.

Additional reporting to this story by Jaylyn Pruitt.