Plantar Fasciitis is quite a common foot condition and one of the leading causes of heel pain.[1] You should wear the best cross-training shoes for plantar fasciitis for support and cushioning supportive and cushioned.
This article will discuss some of the best Cross Training shoe models that help with Plantar Fasciitis.
If you have a foot condition or ongoing foot pain, talk to a doctor or podiatrist. Shoes can add comfort and support, but they are not a medical treatment.
How Do Shoes Help with Plantar Fasciitis
Wearing proper footwear for all occasions or using a customized orthotic device is often one of the first steps for managing Plantar Fasciitis.
The right footwear can significantly reduce pain levels and speed up recovery from this painful condition.
Here are some ways the right footwear will help with Plantar Fasciitis.
- Supporting Your Arches – Because Plantar Fasciitis is more common in people with a low or flat arch who tend to Overpronate, good arch support helps address these issues and can help reduce Plantar Fasciitis pain.[2]
- Cushioning the Feet and Heels – Cushioning in the sole and midsole absorbs shock and spreads the weight of your body evenly so that it is not concentrated on the heel area. An additional Heel cushion further reduces pressure on the painful heel area.
- The Right Type Of Flexibility – When you have Plantar fasciitis, it is vital that your shoes flex a little but not too much. You want the flexing to be at the ball of your feet with some resistance.
- Mption Facilitation – The design of the sole of the shoe should be so to help propel the foot forward when walking or running to minimize the impact.
- Comfortable and Roomy Fit – Because you do not want cramped toes to exacerbate pain, a roomier and more depth in the toe box can help allow you to splay out your toes comfortably.
What to Look for in Cross Training Shoes?
So following the guidelines we have discussed above, here are a few characteristics that are important in a good Cross-Training shoe for Plantar Fasciitis;
- Arch Support – Look for good arch support for your specific arch type.[3] Usually, persons who suffer from Plantar Fasciitis have a lower arch and Overpronate, so seek a Stability support shoe for these reasons.[4]
- Uppers – In Cross Training shoes, you need an upper that does not cause friction and flexes and adapts to your feet’ shape. You also want a roomy toe box for Plantar fasciitis.
- Traction – A Good Cross-Training shoe should offer excellent traction and grip depending on the exercise routines you partake in your exercise routines. Choose from the best cross-training shoes for plantar fasciitis to get the full features.
- Flexible Sole – For a Cross Trainer, a Flexible sole is ideal, yet for Plantar Fasciitis, you need less flex only in the ball of the foot area. So please take care of this issue by ensuring the flex is not too much or too little manageable.
- Cushioning – In a Good Cross-Training shoe, Excess cushioning can weigh you down, but it is necessary for Plantar Fasciitis, particularly in the heel area.[5] Look for balanced cushioning that is still lightweight with additional cushioning in the heel area.
Features of a Good Cross-Training Shoe for Plantar Fasciitis
Choose the best cross-training shoes for plantar fasciitis to stay active and work out well without the pain sensation.
- Uppers – Any Good Cross Training shoes must have flexible and breathable uppers that accommodate and adapt to your movement while still providing a certain level of support. A knit or engineered mesh with a flexible sock-like or bootie fit is ideal for flexibility and to keep your feet well-ventilated. A moisture-wicking interior lining likewise helps to keep sweat and odors at bay.
- Insole – A cushioned insole with a moisture-wicking lining provides comfort, shock absorbency, and support. Shoe Manufacturers can use EVA, Foam, Memory Foam, or specialized cushioning. A removable insole is also ideal; you can remove it using your customized orthotic devices.
- Midsole – A foam or EVA midsole is essential as it helps reduce strain and impact on your feet, heel, ankles, knees, and back by providing shock-absorbing cushioning.
- Heel Cushioning – When you have Plantar Fasciitis, looking for a Cross training shoe with additional padding such as EVA or Gel in the heel is advisable, as this is where you need the most protection.
- Outsole – A more flexible outsole in a good training shoe is ideal. Rubber is the best material for the outsole, with a high traction patterned tread.
Key Specs Compared
Numbers match the reviews below (tap to jump).
| No. | Shoe | Type | Upper | Closure | Cushioning (as listed) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nike Downshifter 14 | Running Shoe | Mesh | Not stated | Bounce |
| 2 | Reebok Nano X1 | Training Shoe | Knit | Not stated | Floatride Energy Foam |
| 3 | Brooks Ghost 14 GTX | Running Shoe | Not stated | Not stated | BioMoGo DNA |
| 4 | Puma Tazon 6 | Training Shoe | Not stated | Not stated | EVA |
| 5 | ASICS Gel-Contend 10 | Running Shoe | Mesh | Not stated | GEL technology |
| 6 | New Balance 608 V5 | Training Shoe | Suede | Lace-up | ABZORB |
| 7 | ASICS GT-2000 14 | Running Shoe | Mesh | Not stated | PureGEL |
| 8 | New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V15 | Running Shoe | Mesh | Not stated | Fresh Foam X |
| 9 | Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 | Running Shoe | Knit | Not stated | DNA LOFT v3 |
| 10 | ASICS JOLT 5 | Running Shoe | Mesh | Not stated | EVA |
| 11 | Skechers Ultra Flex 4.0 | Slip-On Sneaker | Knit | Hands-free slip-in | Memory Foam |
| 12 | adidas Fluidflow 2.0 | Running Shoe | Knit | Lace-up | Not stated |
– = not stated by the maker. Specs as stated by the listing, not tested by us; check the listing before you buy.
Reviews: The Best Cross Training Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
Here we have some of the best training shoes for plantar fasciitis, which are perfect for managing pain;
We hope you love the products we recommend!
We may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page.
1
Cushioned Breathable Running Shoe for Daily Miles
Nike Downshifter 14 - Men
Currently unavailable
Nike Downshifter 14 - Women
Currently unavailable
The Nike Downshifter 14 comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this running shoe is worth a look for cross training shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Engineered open-hole mesh on the upper offers breathability, which helps feet stay comfortable through workouts.
- The brand increased the amount of cushioning in the midsole for more comfort and bounce, which helps keep long stretches of workouts comfortable.
- Internal fit band offers containment around the midfoot for a locked-in feel, worth noting if fit is a priority for cross training shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Men’s and women’s versions are listed separately on the web, each with its own size range.
- Check the Product listing for current colors and size availability before you order.
- Compare the size chart on the listing, since fit can vary between colorways and versions.
2
Supportive Cushioned Training Shoe for Gym Workouts
Reebok Nano X1 - Men
Currently unavailable
Reebok Nano X1 - Women
Currently unavailable
The Reebok Nano X1 comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this training shoe is worth a look for cross training shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Workout the way you want – these combination training and running shoes enable you to jump, climb, and even throw the barbell around with complete confidence.
- These iconic training sneakers for women feature a Flexweave knit upper that’s breathable yet durable, with integrated support for multidirectional movement, the kind of support many people look for in cross training shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Floatride Energy Foam provides the lightweight, responsive cushioning of these running shoes, while maintaining the performance and stability of women’s training shoes, a useful trait in cross training shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Built For Speed: the sleek shape and ultra-stylish design of these lightweight workout shoes for women helps you crush your workout goals and feel good about what you’re wearing too.
- Stretched ripstop mesh upper for outdoor vibes and extra durability vibes and extra durability, worth noting if fit is a priority for cross training shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Heel Stabilizer for multi-directional movement support, the kind of support many people look for in cross training shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Floatride Energy foam is supportive, highly responsive, and lighter than traditional EVA.
3
Cushioned Waterproof Running Shoe for Daily Miles
Brooks Ghost 14 GTX - Men
Currently unavailable
Brooks Ghost 14 GTX - Women
Currently unavailable
The Brooks Ghost 14 GTX comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this running shoe is worth a look for cross training shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Runners looking for a smooth ride that won’t distract from the fun of the run. The Ghost 14 offers a simplified midsole construction which creates more seamless transitions.
- Support AND Cushion: the Ghost 14 GTX offers neutral support while providing high energizing cushioning and waterproof protection. Predecessor: Ghost 13, handy for workouts in changing weather.
- BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT cushioning work together to provide a just-right softness underfoot without losing responsiveness and durability – yet it feels lighter than ever.
- No matter how your foot lands, the brand’s Segmented Crash Pad – an integrated system of shock absorbers – will cushion every step and stride for smooth heel-to-toe transitions.
- Waterproof AND Cushion: the Ghost 14 GTX offers neutral support while providing high energizing cushioning and waterproof protection, handy for workouts in changing weather.
- Predecessor: Ghost 17 GTX.
- Engineered with a lightweight, flexible GORE-TEX Invisible Fit membrane bonded directly to the upper, offering breathable, waterproof protection to keep your feet dry in the rain without adding bulk.
4
TPU Trainers for Plantar Fasciitis
Puma Tazon 6 - Men
Currently unavailable
Puma Tazon 6 - Women
Currently unavailable
The Puma Tazon is one of the best choices in Cross Training Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis.
- The Upper is a breathable synthetic leather with a lace-up closure.
- A breathable Ortholite cushioned sock liner inside and a supportive cushioned midsole.
- The TPU shank adds stability and support, making it one of the best workout shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- There is also a durable rubber outsole that offers some flexibility.
- You can choose between a few color options in the Puma Tazon.
5
Cushioned Lightweight Running Shoe for Daily Miles
ASICS Gel-Contend 10 - Men
Currently unavailable
ASICS Gel-Contend 10 - Women
Currently unavailable
The ASICS Gel-Contend 10 comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this running shoe is worth a look for cross training shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Engineered mesh upper: a lightweight, breathable mesh material helps reduce the need for additional overlays, which helps feet stay comfortable through workouts.
- Shock-attenuating material placed in the midsole of the shoe for cushioning and shock absorption, a useful trait in cross training shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Midsole cushioning that provides a softer and more comfortable ride than standard AMPLIFOAM cushioning., which helps keep long stretches of workouts comfortable.
- Sockliner that provides cushioning performance and moisture management for a cooler, dryer environment (OrthoLite is a registered trademark of ATP Manufacturing LLC), a useful trait in cross training shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Men’s and women’s versions are listed separately on the web, each with its own size range.
- Check the Product listing for current colors and size availability before you order.
- Compare the size chart on the listing, since fit can vary between colorways and versions.
6
Suede Cushioned Training Shoe for Gym Workouts
New Balance 608 V5 - Men
Currently unavailable
New Balance 608 V5 - Women
Currently unavailable
The New Balance 608 V5 comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this training shoe is worth a look for cross training shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- IMEVA midsole with ABZORB heel pad absorbs impact and provides added cushioning for all-day comfort during training and everyday wear, a useful trait in cross training shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Quality suede upper delivers a classic, durable look with supportive structure that molds comfortably to your foot over time, the kind of support many people look for in cross training shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Traditional lace-up design allows you to adjust the fit for maximum comfort and a secure feel during workouts and daily activities, worth noting if fit is a priority for cross training shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Lightly cushioned footbed provides an extra layer of soft comfort underfoot, keeping you supported through long days on your feet, which helps keep long stretches of workouts comfortable.
- Sturdy outsole construction offers reliable traction and long-lasting durability on gym floors, sidewalks, and everyday surfaces.
- ABZORB heel crash pad absorbs impact on every step, paired with a molded PU insert for underfoot comfort that lasts from morning to night.
- Sturdy suede upper provides supportive structure and a classic look that breaks in nicely over time for a personalized fit.
7
Supportive Cushioned Running Shoe for Daily Miles
ASICS GT-2000 14 - Men
Currently unavailable
ASICS GT-2000 14 - Women
Currently unavailable
The ASICS GT-2000 14 comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this running shoe is worth a look for cross training shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Breathable material helps keep your feet dry, which helps feet stay comfortable through workouts.
- Asymmetric tongue wing: a tongue feature that provides a comfortable and secure feel around the midfoot while reducing tongue movement.
- Trampoline-inspired outsole pod: the brand’s outsole and midsole design that captures more energy return for an enhanced foam bouncing effect during toe-off, a useful trait in cross training shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Adaptive, on-demand stability system achieved through platform geometry and controlled deformation. Rearfoot PureGEL technology: Softer, updated version of the brand’s GEL technology.
- Rearfoot PureGEL technology: softer, updated version of the brand’s GEL technology. Approximately 65% softer vs standard GEL technology, a useful trait in cross training shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- FF BLAST MAX cushioning: one of the brand’s most energetic midsole foams that’s complemented with cloud-like softness and a responsive energy return in each step, which helps keep long stretches of workouts comfortable.
- Sockliner that provides cushioning performance and moisture management for a cooler, dryer environment.
8
Mesh Cushioned Running Shoe for Daily Miles
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V15 - Men
Currently unavailable
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V15 - Women
Currently unavailable
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V15 comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this running shoe is worth a look for cross training shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- All-new Infinion technology delivers premium underfoot cushioning with enhanced energy return, designed for long-lasting performance run after run, which helps keep long stretches of workouts comfortable.
- Built with NDurance rubber in high-wear areas for increased durability, ensuring reliable traction and longevity through hundreds of miles, a practical detail for workouts.
- Stylish molded mesh upper provides a breathable, supportive fit with a modern aesthetic that transitions easily from run to daily wear, the kind of support many people look for in cross training shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Plush cushioned tongue and heel tab deliver added comfort and easy on-off convenience, reducing pressure points during long runs, a useful trait in cross training shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- All-new Infinion cushioning delivers long-lasting performance with enhanced cushioning and energy return, providing a plush yet responsive ride mile after mile.
- Built for daily road running with a balanced combination of soft cushioning and responsive energy return that runners have come to rely on in the 1080 series.
- Breathable Upper Design: lightweight, ventilated upper keeps your feet cool and dry during long runs, with a secure fit that moves naturally with your stride.
9
Knit Stability Running Shoe for Daily Miles
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 - Men
Currently unavailable
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 - Women
Currently unavailable
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this running shoe is worth a look for cross training shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Featuring holistic GuideRails for Go-To Support and soft, dynamic premium nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning, it delivers distraction-free comfort mile after mile, which helps keep long stretches of workouts comfortable.
- Guiderails Holistic Support System: the brand’s innovative technology – known as “GTS” for “Go-To Support” – supports your body in its natural motion path while keeping excess movement in check.
- Even more premium nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning delivers lightweight softness, and feel-good comfort mile after mile, which helps keep long stretches of workouts comfortable.
- Trusted FIT: the breathable engineered mesh upper and flat-knit collar offer a secure, comfortable fit, providing both structure and flexibility to accommodate natural movement during active use.
- Smooth Transitions: the specially designed outsole and midsole work together to promote seamless transitions, ensuring comfort and support for every step, so you can stay active longer.
- Men’s and women’s versions are listed separately on the web, each with its own size range.
- Check the Product listing for current colors and size availability before you order.
10
Mesh Roomy Running Shoe for Daily Miles
ASICS JOLT 5 - Men
Currently unavailable
ASICS JOLT 5 - Women
Currently unavailable
The ASICS JOLT 5 comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this running shoe is worth a look for cross training shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Helps improve breathability, which helps feet stay comfortable through workouts.
- Helps provide underfoot comfort.
- The sockliner is produced with the solution dyeing process that reduces water usage by approximately 33% and carbon emissions by approximately 45% compared to the conventional dyeing technology.
- Elastic midsole cushions the foot, a useful trait in cross training shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Breathable mesh upper to promote better air circulation, helping to keep feet cool, which helps feet stay comfortable through workouts.
- Regular fit, comfortable fit, worth noting if fit is a priority for cross training shoes for plantar fasciitis.
11
Cushioned Breathable Slip-On Sneaker for Everyday Wear
Skechers Ultra Flex 4.0 - Men
Currently unavailable
Skechers Ultra Flex 4.0 - Women
Currently unavailable
The Skechers Ultra Flex 4.0 comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this slip-on sneaker is worth a look for cross training shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Hands Free Slip-In Technology, helpful on the surfaces you meet during workouts.
- Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole, a useful trait in cross training shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Machine washable, air dry.
- Stretch fabric upper in Skechers Hands-Free Slip-ins® styling, a practical detail for workouts.
- Air-Cooled Memory Foam footbed, which helps keep long stretches of workouts comfortable.
- Men’s and women’s versions are listed separately on the web, each with its own size range.
- Check the Product listing for current colors and size availability before you order.
12
Breathable Running Shoe for Daily Miles
adidas Fluidflow 2.0 - Men
Currently unavailable
adidas Fluidflow 2.0 - Women
Currently unavailable
The adidas Fluidflow 2.0 comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this running shoe is worth a look for cross training shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Sneakers with a knit textile upper that are big on comfort.
- Sneakers that are big on comfort.
- Men’s and women’s versions are listed separately on the web, each with its own size range.
- Check the Product listing for current colors and size availability before you order.
- Compare the size chart on the listing, since fit can vary between colorways and versions.
Index Table: Top Rated Cross Training Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
| No. | Shoe | Men ♂ | Women ♀ | Features | Brand |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nike® - Cushioned Breathable Running Shoe for Daily Miles |  |  |
| Nike |
| 2 | Reebok® - Supportive Cushioned Training Shoe for Gym Workouts |  |  |
| Reebok |
| 3 | Brooks® - Cushioned Waterproof Running Shoe for Daily Miles |  |  |
| Brooks |
| 4 | Puma® - TPU Trainers for Plantar Fasciitis |  |  |
| Puma |
| 5 | ASICS® - Cushioned Lightweight Running Shoe for Daily Miles |  |  |
| ASICS |
| 6 | New Balance® - Suede Cushioned Training Shoe for Gym Workouts |  |  |
| New Balance |
| 7 | ASICS® - Supportive Cushioned Running Shoe for Daily Miles |  |  |
| ASICS |
| 8 | New Balance® - Mesh Cushioned Running Shoe for Daily Miles |  |  |
| New Balance |
| 9 | Brooks® - Knit Stability Running Shoe for Daily Miles |  |  |
| Brooks |
| 10 | ASICS® - Mesh Roomy Running Shoe for Daily Miles |  |  |
| ASICS |
| 11 | Skechers® - Cushioned Breathable Slip-On Sneaker for Everyday Wear |  |  |
| Skechers |
| 12 | adidas® - Breathable Running Shoe for Daily Miles |  |  |
| adidas |
Sources
General background on foot health and footwear. This is not medical advice; see a doctor or podiatrist about foot pain or a foot condition.
- NHS: Plantar fasciitis
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (OrthoInfo): Plantar Fasciitis and Bone Spurs
- NHS: Heel pain
- MedlinePlus (NIH): Plantar fasciitis
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (OrthoInfo): Athletic Shoes
Update History
- Oct 2026: Updated Nike LunarGlide 8 to Nike Downshifter 14
- Oct 2026: Updated Reebok CrossFit Nano 6.0 Covert to Reebok Nano X1
- Oct 2026: Updated Brooks Ghost 14 to Brooks Ghost 14 GTX
- Oct 2026: Updated Asics Conviction X to ASICS Gel-Contend 10
- Oct 2026: Updated New Balance 608V6 to New Balance 608 V5
- Oct 2026: Updated Asics Gel Kayano 28 to ASICS GT-2000 14
- Oct 2026: Updated New Balance 680V7 to New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V15
- Oct 2026: Updated Brooks Glycerin 19 to Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25
- Oct 2026: Updated Asics Gel Pulse 12 to ASICS JOLT 5
- Oct 2026: Updated Skechers Flex Go Train to Skechers Ultra Flex 4.0
- Oct 2026: Updated Adidas FluidFlow to adidas Fluidflow 2.0
- Oct 2026: Removed Gravity Defyer G-Defy Orion (unavailable)
- Dec 2021: Added Nike LunarGlide 8
- Aug 2021: Added Brooks Ghost 14
- Jul 2021: Added New Balance 680V7 and Asics Gel Pulse 12
- Jun 2021: Added Asics Gel Kayano 28 and Brooks Glycerin 19
- Sep 2020: Added Adidas FluidFlow
- Aug 2020: Added New Balance 608V6
- Jul 2020: First published
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