When I found out I had plantar fasciitis, I was worried because I thought it would affect how I walked! Since I LOVE to walk as exercise, I needed to make sure that my feet have enough support without pressure. That’s when I learned all about the best walking shoes for plantar fasciitis, perfect to keep me walking well.
But the question is: which one is best suitable for you and what else do you need to know? I did all the research and reviews, so read on! I’ll show you the top 6 best walking shoes for plantar fasciitis and why it’s important choosing the right one for your feet.
Contents
- 1 6 Best Walking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis For Men
- 1.1 1. The Specialized and Cushioning: Orthofeet Walking Sneakers
- 1.2 2. The Comfortable and Stylish: Orthofeet Boat Shoes
- 1.3 3. The Pain-Relieving and Supportive: Orthofeet Men’s Sneakers
- 1.4 4. The Simple and Affordable: New Balance MW411v2 Walking Shoe
- 1.5 5. The Smooth and Soft Feel: Brooks Addiction Walker Shoes
- 1.6 6. The Breathable and Well-Made: New Balance MW877 Walking Shoe
- 2 6 Best Walking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis For Women
- 2.1 1. The Stabilized and Well-Cushioned: Brooks Glycerin 15 Walking Shoes
- 2.2 2. The Extra Support and Plush: New Balance WW928 Health Walking Lace-Up Sneakers
- 2.3 3. The Professional and Versatile: Dansko Professional Mule Shoes
- 2.4 4. The Balanced and Well-Ventilated: New Balance W1540V2 Running Shoes
- 2.5 5. The Easy Gait and Unique Design: Orthofeet Coral Sneakers
- 2.6 6. The Lightweight and Cooling: Ryka Sky Walk Walking Shoe
- 3 Importance of Choosing Walking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
- 4 How to Choose the Best Walking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
- 5 Helpful Tips to Walk Better With Plantar Fasciitis
- 6 Frequently Asked Questions: Walking Shoes and Plantar Fasciitis
- 7 Wrapping It Up
6 Best Walking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis For Men
1. The Specialized and Cushioning: Orthofeet Walking Sneakers
What makes the Orthofeet Sneakers a great purchase is a fact that it’s really made for plantar fasciitis! It’s built with orthotic support, with the specialized insole in the shoe for customized arch support. It also comes with the cushioning heel pad, which conforms to the shape of our feet as we walk.
Besides this, it also comes with the easy gait for both lightweight cushioning. That way, you won’t feel heavy as you take steps, which adds to your comfort. I really liked how effective these shoes were in pain relief because I didn’t feel anything at all even after walking for longer times.
Pros:
- Have innovative features made for most feet conditions
- Soft cushioning with better arch support and orthotic sole
- Extra depth with a wider toe box for a better fit
Cons:
- Some complaints of its durability
- Need to order half a size smaller
2. The Comfortable and Stylish: Orthofeet Boat Shoes
Another excellent choice goes to Orthofeet Boat Shoes, which can be used for both casual and walking purposes. I like bringing these out if I’m going for more casual walks since they have the stylish design that looks great! Just like most of Orthofeet’s shoe line, they come with the premium features suited for most feet conditions, including plantar fasciitis.
It isn’t only comfortable and elegant-looking, but it also has special support which relieves pressure well. With extra cushioning but lightweight sole, it adds a bit of bounce without the bulky feel. Definitely a good buy if you need good shoes for exercise and for going out.
Pros:
- Elegant and stylish design for comfortable walks
- Doesn’t feel bulky and is light enough to lift feet with ease
- No inserts but still helps reduce heel pain properly
Cons:
- Some people complain about receiving the wrong colors
- Too small, need to order a size higher
3. The Pain-Relieving and Supportive: Orthofeet Men’s Sneakers
Orthofeet really stands out in terms of their walking shoes because of their excellent support made for plantar fasciitis. Their Men’s Sneakers is no exception, looking like it’s made for both running or walking. That’s why I commend it because it has the versatility to use for exercise and intense jobs.
Similar to the other Ortofeet sneakers I’ve tested, it comes with excellent pressure relief. Even as I continued using it, I felt little to no heel pain, which was a feat considering I usually have pain during or after long walks. I highly recommend it for its versatility, if you want a durable and all-around shoe!
Pros:
- Has excellent versatility to use for running or walking
- Wide toe box to fit most wide or flat feet
- Relieves and reduces heel pain excellently
Cons:
- Requires a few days to break in
- Some people won’t like the design
4. The Simple and Affordable: New Balance MW411v2 Walking Shoe
New Balance is another reputable company that works on their shoes well, with the MW411v2 being no exception. It’s a walking shoe with the professional athletic design that looks great to look at. Furthermore, it’s simply constructed with high-quality materials to last, all coming at a more affordable price.
It has enough arch support to keep your feet free from too much pressure. Also, it has a perforated upper, which adds to its breathability and comfort as it conforms to your foot shape. If you’re focusing on affordability with the basic necessities in walking shoes for plantar fasciitis, this is a good option.
Pros:
- Simple design with an affordable price
- Great for walking and relieves pain adequately
- Snug and accurate fit
Cons:
- May not fully reduce pain if your condition is severe
- A bit of pain felt if you stand too long
5. The Smooth and Soft Feel: Brooks Addiction Walker Shoes
I really like the Brooks Addiction Walker Shoes because of its excellent feel and usability. It has the design that I can use for casual use, or even for work and exercise. Besides this, it has all the necessary features that I need, as someone with plantar fasciitis.
It provides high arch support if you have low arches, controlling overpronation as you walk for long periods. That way, it feels great and comfortable as you walk or stand no matter how much you do it for. It’s a great purchase if you have wider feet and need something comfortable for long walks and work.
Pros:
- Great for long distances and long hours at work
- Has a very wide toe box for flat feet
- High arch support to prevent overpronation
Cons:
- Takes time to break into if you use custom orthotics
- Some complaints of flat insoles
6. The Breathable and Well-Made: New Balance MW877 Walking Shoe
For this who want something classy and utilizes advanced technology, I recommend that New Balance MW877 Walking Shoe. It’s made with a combination of suede and mesh adding to its comfort and good style. Plus, it has the padded cushions in the right areas for better coziness and a snug fit.
What makes this a great walking show is its quality cushioning, made with the ABZORB midsole for excellent absorption. It also has the walking strike path technology to lessen any pain or discomfort felt as you take each step.
Pros:
- It’s made of soft suede and breathable mesh
- Excellent shock absorption for less pressure
- Has the quality material and construction made to last
Cons:
- Some people don’t like the short laces too much
- The shoes may not make it in very cold areas
6 Best Walking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis For Women
1. The Stabilized and Well-Cushioned: Brooks Glycerin 15 Walking Shoes
The top walking shoe for plantar fasciitis I tested is Brook’s Glycerin 15, which improved my walking tremendously! It comes with a cushioned footbed with many different types of colors and designs to choose from. Plus, it’s made with a rubber sole to keep your feet gripped with fewer chances of slipping.
I really enjoyed using these shoes because it has everything I needed as someone with plantar fasciitis. I felt minimal pain as I used the shoes and have had no issues even on hard surfaces. Plus, I’ve increased my distance without worry, since it gave good support and the versatility to use it in most areas.
Pros:
- Can walk on hard surfaces without pain
- Many great and attractive designs to choose from
- Good stability with noticeable improvement from a pain
Cons:
- It will take time to break into
- Might feel a bit far back from the arch for some
2. The Extra Support and Plush: New Balance WW928 Health Walking Lace-Up Sneakers
For this who want both the soft and supportive feel, you’ll like the New Balance WW928. It really offered me the fine stability and control my feet needed to keep it away from much pain no matter how long or where I use it on. That’s because it doesn’t only have the usual ABZORB cushioning, but Ndurance outsole as well, which improves the traction and grip while I walk.
My felt feels so well-cushioned and I feel more of the soft padding rather than the hard ground. All in all, I feel like it’s good for any woman with plantar fasciitis.
Pros:
- Simple yet efficient design with supportive cushioning
- It has a ROLLBAR support system with Ndurance outsole
- Handles all heavy weight and pressure well
Cons:
- A bit in the expensive price range
- Need to order half a size smaller
3. The Professional and Versatile: Dansko Professional Mule Shoes
While you might feel a bit intimidated by the Dansko Professional Mule, you’ll be surprised with its lightweight! I was skeptic because of how bulky and odd it looked, but I realized I could use this for walking AND work. After testing it out, you’ll realize that you can use it for long hours at work or for walking without feeling any pain or burning.
And despite the hours and miles used on it, it still stays strong and looks great. The leather doesn’t scruffle up and you can really feel the comfort, making it worth the price.
Pros:
- It’s very durable quality made to last for long
- Keeps you comfortable and without pain for long hours
- Snug and perfect fit without needing any socks or what
Cons:
- Not the most attractive and seems bulky
- Some complaints of getting a small blister
4. The Balanced and Well-Ventilated: New Balance W1540V2 Running Shoes
New Balance is really known for their supportive footwear, and I really appreciate the W1540V2 Running Shoe! While it’s really advertised as a running shoe, I also like using it for walking as well because of the durability. It also has even better support compared to other New Balance walking shoes I tried out!
It’s made with a ROLLBAR support system and the maximum support to ensure that you’re less likely to feel pain. It’s even very breathable so it’s meant for hotter climates.
Pros:
- Made with breathable mesh to keep the feet cool
- Dual-density foam for better support in plantar fasciitis
Cons:
- The heel might slip out easily
- Wide toe box but not in the heel area
5. The Easy Gait and Unique Design: Orthofeet Coral Sneakers
If you want something versatile for work, casual use, or even for walks and runs, you’ll like the Orthofeet Sneakers. Like all of how Orthofeet footwear’s made, they have the orthotic support that’s made for plantar fasciitis and other feet conditions. Other than that, they also have the excellent quality material that combines necessary features together!
I like that it offers amazing support and comfort without it feeling too bulky or stiff. Plus, it has the lightweight cushioning to support my gait even on rough surfaces.
Pros:
- Alleviates joint stress well with better support
- Soft and lightweight cushioning
- Reduces pain significantly as you use it
Cons:
- Takes time to get used to
- Comes at an expensive price
6. The Lightweight and Cooling: Ryka Sky Walk Walking Shoe
For those who want something really made for walking and with the good looks with it, then you’ll love the Ryka Sky Walk Shoes. These are lace-up walking shoes that are known best for its combination of all necessary features.
I like that it has a breathable mesh upper and overlays made of supportive and durable leather. Furthermore, it comes with a memory foam sock liner and lightweight midsole made from EVA. Its outsole is made of rubber to add traction and grip, and using it for walking has made my sessions feel better!
Pros:
- Shoe contour to your individual foot shape
- Made with breathable and well-ventilated uppers
- Has an EVA midsole for extra support and cushioning
Cons:
- Has a very narrow toe box, need to order half a size up
- Some complaints of the shoe heels wearing out
Importance of Choosing Walking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
You’re probably wondering: Why is it so important investing in the right walking shoes for plantar fasciitis? I used to think getting normal walking shoes was good enough since I just use it for exercise! But as I compared using “typical shoes” versus walking shoes with extra support, I realized it had a LOT of benefits, like:
Pain Relief and Improved Support
The first and major benefit the best walking shoes for plantar fasciitis has is its excellent support. Because of that, it reduces any pain or pressure usually felt in plantar fasciitis.
Better Cushioning and Ventilation
Good walking shoes are designed with high-quality cushioning systems to keep feet comfy as you walk on hard surfaces. They also come with better ventilation for hot weather.
You Can Walk Longer
With the right walking shoes, you won’t have pain as you walk, which encourages longer walking durations. That way, you can reach your goal in terms of pacing and distance, burning calories and keeping you healthy!
Improves Your Plantar Fasciitis Symptoms
Walking shoes are made for walking, some having the specialized design for plantar fasciitis. Offering better arch support and stability, it lessens and prevents any pain felt from the condition better.
Good Design and Long Durability
Quality walking shoes are well-designed and come in different colors according to what YOU want. Furthermore, they are made with brilliant construction to last for at least 300 miles to give you your money’s worth.
How to Choose the Best Walking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
While owning good walking shoes for plantar fasciitis has its benefits, you need to make sure you have the RIGHT pair. There are actually different factors to consider to get shoes based on your INDIVIDUAL needs. Here are the helpful things to look into when selecting the right walking shoes (also based on the reviews above!):
The Right Arch Support
You’ll need a quality pair of shoes that have adequate arch support to alleviate any pressure you feel from plantar fasciitis. With better arch support, it prevents overpronation while encouraging a more natural position for your feet. You’ll need high arch support for plantar fasciitis.
Good Insoles and Lining
Your top priority should be comfort as you stand or walk with your shoes, with the insoles being an important factor. There should be comfortable insoles for your pressure points, either having custom orthotics or gel cushioning for shock absorption. Avoid flat insoles, which isn’t efficient in transitioning as you walk.
How Much Cushioning Do You Need?
When you have plantar fasciitis, you have to prioritize your cushioning as well, especially since you have sensitive feet. I recommend gel cushioning the most, which helps with shock absorption. Also consider getting a rubber sole, which helps absorb impact as you walk while providing enough grip to prevent slipping.
What’s The Shoe Made From?
I highly recommend that you get shoes that are made with strong material to last for at least 300 miles of usage.
Besides the strong construction, your shoes should be made with ethyl vinyl acetate or EVA. This is one of the most popular materials which offer good plantar pressure reduction compared to other materials.
Enough Motion Control
If you have pronation problems (which usually comes with plantar fasciitis), then your feet rolling cause more pain. That’s why it’s best to get stability or motion control shoes, which prevents too much foot movement. That way, it lessens any pain or plantar fascia tearing as you walk.
Wide Toe Box and Snug Fit
If you have flat or wider feet, then you most likely need something with a wider toe box. This accommodates the fit of your feet, making it a snug fit that isn’t too tight. I also recommend you look into your shoe’s sizing, as some don’t run at the same standard sizes and you may need to order half a size higher or lower.
Design and Breathability
Consider the way your chosen shoes are constructed and the way it’s designed. Not only should it feel great, but you’ll want it to look great to walk around with, too! Consider the colors and patterns there are, suiting your personality.
Furthermore, don’t forget to choose shoes designed with breathability in mind. I like those made with mesh on its top and sides to prevent overheating.
What’s Your Budget?
Last but not least, how much can you afford for your shoes? Take note that while you don’t need to overspend on shoes, you shouldn’t get the cheapest and hope for the best, too. Good shoes can range between $30 to $200, so try to set a REASONABLE budget based on how much you have for it and what features you need.
Helpful Tips to Walk Better With Plantar Fasciitis
Now that you’re familiar with what plantar fasciitis is and the importance of walking shoes, how can you walk properly? Besides owning the right walking shoes, there’s more to walking better so here are helpful tips you can follow:
- When walking, start off with a short distance and slow pace, ensuring that you feel no pain throughout the walk. Only increase the intensity of your walk after one or two weeks to prevent your feet from getting shocked. If you feel pain during your walks, take a break or stop the walk and resume after a few days, only when the pain stops
- After walking, place an ice pack under your feet for around 15 minutes to reduce inflammation
- I recommend that you don’t walk on hard surfaces like gravel or rocky trails. Soft treadmill and tracks are better unless you have walking shoes with extra cushioning
- Make sure that you stretch your feet before and after your walk to prevent injuries or pain after your session
Frequently Asked Questions: Walking Shoes and Plantar Fasciitis
Besides the importance and tips on choosing walking shoes, here are more frequently asked questions to know more about them:
1. What is plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis comes from bone or nerve irritation, caused by an inflammation, tension, or scarring of the fascia. This cause pain as you walk, stand or run. Usually, you would feel the pain around the fascia, while some can feel it around the whole bottom of their feet.
2. Are there ways to prevent symptoms and pain?
Here are some home remedies that can help with the symptoms of plantar fasciitis:
- Make sure that you get enough rest and ice your foot if ever you feel pain
- Massages can help with your foot flexibility and mobilize your fascia, so try doing self-massage around your feet in the morning
- Do stretches and exercises which strengthen your calves and feet
- Consider using night splints at night to proven injury and keep your foot relaxed correctly
3. What are the treatments for plantar fasciitis?
Here are ways to treat plantar fasciitis to lessen its pain:
- Depending on the severity of your plantar fasciitis, your doctor may recommend you to undergo therapy
- Podiatrists would prescribe custom orthotics or arch supports to place in your shoes to correct your gait. However, this is a last resort compared to modifying your activity levels, stretches, and the right exercises
- Your doctor may suggest taking medication if the pain gets too severe
4. Why does plantar fasciitis happen?
There are various reasons as to why plantar fasciitis happens, such as:
- Long-distance running or walking and standing on hard surfaces for long periods
- Doing exercises that include jumping or a big increase in physical stress in short amounts of time
- Being overweight (or genetics)
- Using the wrong or inappropriate footwear
5. How long can I walk for?
Walking is highly beneficial but you have to lessen the duration and speed, especially if you’re just starting. I recommend that you start off with 20-minute walks at a normal pace where you can still hold a conversation. Increase the duration or speed only by 5% every week to add more challenge to it.
If you want to learn more about plantar fasciitis, check out this helpful video for more information:
Wrapping It Up
Walking with a plantar fasciitis doesn’t have to feel so uncomfortable as long as you have the right shoes for it. Not only will it provide support, but you know that they can last for a long time. It’s the reason why I highly recommend you to get these types of shoes, which comes with a host of benefits!
Of all the different types of walking shoes tried and tested, I love Orthofeet Shoes for men. This is specially made for this with plantar fasciitis and other feet conditions with its unique construction. It has the lightweight sole and the extra-depth design to keep you comfortable no matter how long you walk for.
As for the women, the Brooks Glycerin Shoes are the best for its design and support. It’s specially cushioned for extra comfort, protecting your feet as you take each stride. Furthermore, it’s built with the excellent material known to last for years, making it worth the investment.
I hope this article on the best walking shoes for plantar fasciitis helped you out! So don’t wait any longer and look into getting a pair of your own now. If you have any questions or want to share your own reviews on these walking shoes, then comment below. Your thoughts are much appreciated.
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