Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition that affects the heel area and causes pain and inflammation.[1]
There are many causes, including improper footwear, which causes excess strain on the heel area.
Wearing the best walking shoes for plantar fasciitis can make walking more comfortable when you have Plantar Fasciitis. More importantly, it may help lower the risk of this condition developing or getting worse, giving you hope for a more comfortable future.
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 does Improper Footwear Cause and Affect Plantar Fasciitis
Though there are many causes and reasons why you may develop Plantar Fasciitis, one of the leading causes is your footwear. Likewise, your shoe can add pain and discomfort if you already have Plantar Fasciitis.
- Impact and Strain – Footwear that does not provide proper shock absorbency and support can increase impact and strain on your feet, knees, ankles, and heels. A disproportionate impact on the heel area can lead to Plantar Fasciitis.
- Flat Feet – Plantar Fasciitis is common in patients with a low or fallen arch. Shoes not providing good arch support can cause and aggravate Plantar Fascitis in Flat feet.[2]
- Injuries – Improper footwear worn when you have Plantar fasciitis may lead to further injuries and damage to the Plantar Fascia.
- Uncomfortable Fit – Shoes that fit uncomfortably or are worn out can aggravate and cause Plantar Fasciitis.
- Uneven Weight Distribution – Excess weight can lead to Flat feet and Plantar Fasciitis in individuals; this is worsened by footwear that does not distribute your body weight evenly on your feet.
Choosing the Best Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
The leading cause of Plantar Fasciitis is a strain on the ligament that supports your arch. This strain causes the ligament to weaken and become inflamed, leading to pain and swelling because of tiny tears in the ligament.
Choosing the right footwear that supports the arch and absorbs shock in the heel area is not just ideal, it’s crucial for managing Plantar Fasciitis.[3] By making informed choices about your footwear, you can take control of your condition and improve your comfort and mobility.
- Cushioning and Shock Absorbency – Look for shoes that offer cushioning, especially in the heel area, to protect the heel from impact; also, look for a shock-absorbing midsole such as foam or EVA. Likewise, a platform design with no or slight heel can provide better weight distribution.
- Arch Support – Good arch support helps ease the discomfort of plantar fasciitis, especially with a low or flat arch.[4]
- Stability – Stability to help reduce excessive pronation and injuries is ideal when you have Plantar Fasciitis, particularly in an individual with lower or flat arches.
Features of a Good Shoe for Plantar Fasciitis
Here are the most significant features when choosing the best walking shoes for plantar fasciitis in 2026. The right shoe can add comfort and may help reduce the strain behind chronic pain.
- Impact resistance – A shock-absorbing midsole from foam or EVA and a Duo Max stability support system to lessen the impact on your feet and heels.
- Cushioning – Gel, Memory Foam, EVA, or foam cushioning in the footbed or heel area for comfort and support.
- Arch Support – A contoured or arch-support footbed design to support the arch of your feet and improve alignment.
- Outsole – Durable rubber with a lug pattern offers excellent shock absorbency, long-lasting durability, and better traction.
- Uppers – Mesh, leather, or synthetic materials are durable and offer a comfortable fit.
- Breathability – Perforations in leather or mesh uppers will ensure better breathability and ventilation.
Key Specs Compared
Numbers match the reviews below (tap to jump).
| No. | Shoe | Type | Upper | Closure | Cushioning (as listed) | Outsole |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Balance 840 V5 | Running Shoe | Mesh | Lace-up | ABZORB | Not stated |
| 2 | ALTRA Olympus 7 Trail | Trail Running Shoe | Not stated | Hook-and-loop | Not stated | Vibram rubber |
| 3 | ASICS GT-2000 14 | Running Shoe | Mesh | Not stated | PureGEL | Not stated |
| 4 | Brooks Addiction Walker Suede | Walking Shoe | Suede | Not stated | BioMoGo DNA | Not stated |
| 5 | Spira Classic Leather | Walking Shoe | Leather | Lace-up | Not stated | Slip-resistant |
| 6 | Propet Stability Walker | Walking Shoe | Leather | Lace-up | EVA | Rubber |
| 7 | Clarks Un Adorn Zip / Higley Tie (men's) | Sneaker | Suede | Zipper | EVA | Rubber |
| 8 | ASICS Gel-Excite 11 | Running Shoe | Mesh | Not stated | PureGEL | Not stated |
| 9 | Gravity Defyer GDEFY MATeeM | Training Shoe | Knit | Not stated | Not stated | Not stated |
| 10 | Mizuno Wave Creation 25 | Running Shoe | Not stated | Not stated | MIZUNO ENERZY | Rubber |
| 11 | ASICS GT-2000 15 | Running Shoe | Not stated | Not stated | PureGEL | Not stated |
| 12 | Teva Hurricane XLT 2 | Sandal | Not stated | Hook-and-loop | Not stated | Rubber |
| 13 | Skechers Go Walk 5 Honor / Superior Gains (men's) | Not stated | Mesh | Slip-on | ULTRA GO | Not stated |
| 14 | New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V15 | Running Shoe | Mesh | Not stated | Fresh Foam X | Rubber |
| 15 | Brooks Ghost 14 GTX | Running Shoe | Not stated | Not stated | BioMoGo DNA | Not stated |
– = not stated on the Amazon listing. Specs as stated by the listing, not tested by us; check the listing before you buy.
Reviews: Best Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
Here are a few fantastic selections of shoes that provide support and reinforcement for Plantar Fasciitis.
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
- These running shoes have a ABZORB midsole which absorbs impact through a combination of cushioning and compression resistance, which helps keep long stretches of walking comfortable.
- The brand’s Synthetic and mesh upper running shoes have a stretch for breathability, comfort and a stable fit, worth noting if fit is a priority for walking shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Adjustable lace closure for customized fit, so it is easier to get a secure, comfortable fit for walking.
- Due to variances created during the development and manufacturing processes, all references to 12 mm drop are approximate.
- ABZORB midsole absorbs impact through a combination of cushioning and compression resistance, which helps keep long stretches of walking comfortable.
- Synthetic and mesh upper has stretch for breathability, comfort and a stable fit.
2
Trail Running Shoe for Rough Trails
- Vibram Megagrip is a high-performance sticky rubber that offers grip on both wet and dry surfaces, rugged longevity, and optimal ground adaptability, helpful on the surfaces you meet during walking.
- With Altra’s signature FootShape Fit, you get the brand’s roomiest toe box with plenty of room to help your toes move more freely, and space through the midfoot, worth noting if fit is a priority for walking shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- GaiterTrap, the brand’s unique hook-and-loop tab, allows for easy strapless gaiter attachment without fasteners, bungees, or bindings, so it is easier to get a secure, comfortable fit for walking.
- Unique Altra EGO MAX midsole foam is designed for a little extra bounce and a plush feel, a useful trait in walking shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Men’s and women’s versions are listed separately on Amazon, each with its own size range.
- Check the Amazon 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.
3
Supportive Cushioned Running Shoe for Daily Miles
- Breathable material helps keep your feet dry, which helps feet stay comfortable through walking.
- 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 walking 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 walking 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 walking comfortable.
- Sockliner that provides cushioning performance and moisture management for a cooler, dryer environment.
4
Supportive Cushioned Walking Shoe for Everyday Walks
- Maxiumum support for stability and alignment, it features the brand’s Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar (PDRB), this motion-control system supports your entire body by guiding each stride into its natural path.
- Designed with a durable, textured outsole that helps provide confident grip and steady footing for everyday walking comfort—indoors or out, helpful on the surfaces you meet during walking.
- Made with premium materials and sturdy construction, this walking shoe offers long-term durability without compromising comfort—making it a reliable addition to your daily routine.
- Men’s and women’s versions are listed separately on Amazon, each with its own size range.
- Check the Amazon 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.
5
Cushioned Slip-Resistant Walking Shoe for Everyday Walks
- Lace-up leather walking shoe featuring perforations for breathability and embroidered logo at tongue, side, and heel, worth noting if fit is a priority for walking shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Wavespring technology in heel and forefoot for cushioning, which helps keep long stretches of walking comfortable.
- Slip-resistant outsole for traction, a practical detail for walking.
- Dual spring configuration.
- Men’s and women’s versions are listed separately on Amazon, each with its own size range.
- Check the Amazon 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
Velcro Strap Plantar Fasciitis Walking Shoe
- A supportive Walking shoe with a cushioned removable footbed to accommodate your orthotics.
- Supple leather uppers that are durable and very easy to clean.
- The best women’s walking shoes for plantar fasciitis have a Rigid Heel counter and PU outsole for superb traction and shock absorbency.
- Available in wider widths and larger sizes to accommodate every foot shape and size.
7
Leather Sneaker for Everyday Wear
- Removable Ortholite footbed, EVA midsole, Full grain leather linings, Durable Rubber outsole, which helps keep long stretches of walking comfortable.
- Premium leather and suede.
- The next best thing to barefoot-wear this summer, Clarks Collection Higley Tie is the brand’s ultimate relaxed casual shoe.
- Men’s and women’s versions are listed separately on Amazon, each with its own size range.
- Check the Amazon 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.
8
Cushioned Lightweight Running Shoe for Daily Miles
- PureGEL technology: softer, updated version of the brand’s GEL technology. Approximately 65% softer vs standard GEL technology, a useful trait in walking shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Engineered mesh upper: a lightweight, breathable meshmaterial helps reduce the need for additionaloverlays, which helps feet stay comfortable through walking.
- Midsole cushioning that provides a more soft and comfortable ride than standard AMPLIFOAM cushioning, a useful trait in walking shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Designed to help improve visibility OrthoLite X-30 sockliner: Sockliner that provides cushioning performance and moisture management for a cooler, dryer environment, which helps keep long stretches of walking comfortable.
- Designed to help improve visibility.
- Sockliner that provides cushioning performance and moisture management for a cooler, dryer environment.
- This comfortable heel tab makes the shoe easier and more comfortable to put on and take off.
9
Supportive Cushioned Training Shoe for Gym Workouts
- Hybrid VersoShock Technology: a smart cushioning and recovery system that combines the brand’s patented VersoShock innovation with the full-sole shock absorption of the brand’s exclusive VersoCloud spring cell sole, designed to enhance comfort and reduce impact with every step.
- Micro Fiber Leather Upper Cool and easy to wear upper is a flexible knit with ventilated weave and ghillie reinforced instep making every step cool and secure, which helps feet stay comfortable through walking.
- Engineered for enhanced support and stability, offering heel-to-toe reinforcement to minimize strain and improve balance during walking, standing, and running, the kind of support many people look for in walking shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Seamless And Soft Silk-Like Interior Soft seamless mesh inner lining that is excellent for avoiding irritation continued wear, a useful trait in walking shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Free Corrective Fit Orthotics included – Orthotics provide full-body alignment and perfect biomechanics, so it is easier to get a secure, comfortable fit for walking.
- Men’s and women’s versions are listed separately on Amazon, each with its own size range.
- Check the Amazon listing for current colors and size availability before you order.
10
Cushioned Running Shoe for Daily Miles
- MIZUNO ENERZY (FOAM): Offering versatility in its application, while still maintaining softness and resilience. It will help enhance performance capabilities, which helps keep long stretches of walking comfortable.
- Mizuno Wave: the MIZUNO WAVE plate disperses energy from impact to a broader area providing a stable platform and a superior cushioning, a useful trait in walking shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Infinity Wave Plate: the next level of Wave technology with a more visible and effective construction.
- Designed to control stretching direction for running motion and performance. Smooth Stretch Woven adapts to your foot and keeps your foot position correct, worth noting if fit is a priority for walking shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- X10 Outsole: durable carbon rubber that allows for longer wear, helpful on the surfaces you meet during walking.
- Men’s and women’s versions are listed separately on Amazon, each with its own size range.
- Check the Amazon listing for current colors and size availability before you order.
11
Max-Cushion Stability Running Shoe for Daily Miles
- Engineered woven upper: a lightweight, woven material that reduces the need for additional overlays, so the shoe does not feel heavy during walking.
- Trampoline outsole pod: the brand’s outsole and midsole design that captures more energy return for an enhanced foam bouncing effect during toe-off, which helps keep long stretches of walking comfortable.
- Adaptive, on-demand stability system achieved through platform geometry and controlled deformation, a feature worth weighing when comparing walking shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Rearfoot PureGEL technology: softer, updated version of the brand’s GEL technology that maintains the acclaimed properties that have made GEL technology famous. Approximately 65% softer vs standard GEL technology.
- 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, a useful trait in walking shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Offers good underfoot comfort.
- ASICS’ high abrasion resistant rubber located in the heel area that is approximately three times more durable than standard outsole rubbers.
12
Sandal for Warm Days
- Quick-dry webbing made from recycled plastic using traceable, verifiable REPREVE polyester yarn by Unifi supports your foot and stands up to abuse | Easy hook-and-loop closure comes on and off quickly and gets the fit just right | Rubber outsole for durability and traction | Iconic Universal styling with a hearty platform for wear and tear.
- Quick-dry webbing made from recycled plastic using traceable, verifiable REPREVE polyester yarn by Unifi supports your foot and stands up to abuse, a feature worth weighing when comparing walking shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Injection-molded strap ends for quick and easy grip and adjustability, Easy hook-and-loop closure comes on and off quickly and gets the fit just right, the kind of support many people look for in walking shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Robust EVA footbed for enhanced comfort built for all-day wear, which adds step-in comfort for walking.
- Nylon shank stabilizes and supports your foot on uneven terrain, the kind of support many people look for in walking shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Men’s and women’s versions are listed separately on Amazon, each with its own size range.
- Check the Amazon listing for current colors and size availability before you order.
13
Supportive Cushioned Shoe for Everyday Wear
- Breathable Mesh Upper: soft heathered mesh fabric upper with a pull-on style provides breathable comfort, a useful trait in walking shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Durable Traction: durable rubber dual-density traction outsole delivers stability for walking, the kind of support many people look for in walking shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Machine washable design keeps these running shoes for women fresh with minimal effort.
- Cushioned Comfort: lightweight ULTRA GO cushioning midsole and Air-Cooled Goga Mat insole provide responsive cushioning, which helps keep long stretches of walking comfortable.
- High-rebound Comfort Pillar Technology offers added support for womens sneakers, a feature worth weighing when comparing walking shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Removable comfort insole with memory foam covering.
- Shock absorption midsole.
14
Mesh Cushioned Running Shoe for Daily Miles
- All-new Infinion technology delivers premium underfoot cushioning with enhanced energy return, designed for long-lasting performance run after run, a useful trait in walking shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Built with NDurance rubber in high-wear areas for increased durability, ensuring reliable traction and longevity through hundreds of miles, helpful on the surfaces you meet during walking.
- Stylish molded mesh upper provides a breathable, supportive fit with a modern aesthetic that transitions easily from run to daily wear, a feature worth weighing when comparing walking shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Plush cushioned tongue and heel tab deliver added comfort and easy on-off convenience, reducing pressure points during long runs, which helps keep long stretches of walking comfortable.
- 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.
15
Cushioned Waterproof Running Shoe for Daily Miles
- 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 walking 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 walking 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.
Index Table: Top Rated Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
| No. | Shoe | Men ♂ | Women ♀ | Features | Brand |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Balance® - Cushioned Breathable Running Shoe for Daily Miles | 840 V5 | 840 V5 |
| New Balance |
| 2 | ALTRA® - Trail Running Shoe for Rough Trails | Olympus 7 Trail | Olympus 7 Trail |
| ALTRA |
| 3 | ASICS® - Supportive Cushioned Running Shoe for Daily Miles | GT-2000 14 | GT-2000 14 |
| ASICS |
| 4 | Brooks® - Supportive Cushioned Walking Shoe for Everyday Walks | Addiction Walker Suede | Addiction Walker Suede |
| Brooks |
| 5 | Spira® - Cushioned Slip-Resistant Walking Shoe for Everyday Walks | Classic Leather | Classic Leather |
| Spira |
| 6 | Propet® - Velcro Strap Plantar Fasciitis Walking Shoe | Stability Walker | Stability Walker |
| Propet |
| 7 | Clarks® - Leather Sneaker for Everyday Wear | Higley Tie | Un Adorn Zip |
| Clarks |
| 8 | ASICS® - Cushioned Lightweight Running Shoe for Daily Miles | Gel-Excite 11 | Gel-Excite 11 |
| ASICS |
| 9 | Gravity Defyer® - Supportive Cushioned Training Shoe for Gym Workouts | GDEFY MATeeM | GDEFY MATeeM |
| Gravity Defyer |
| 10 | Mizuno® - Cushioned Running Shoe for Daily Miles | Wave Creation 25 | Wave Creation 25 |
| Mizuno |
| 11 | ASICS® - Max-Cushion Stability Running Shoe for Daily Miles | GT-2000 15 | GT-2000 15 |
| ASICS |
| 12 | Teva® - Sandal for Warm Days | Hurricane XLT 2 | Hurricane XLT 2 |
| Teva |
| 13 | Skechers® - Supportive Cushioned Shoe for Everyday Wear | Superior Gains | Go Walk 5 Honor |
| Skechers |
| 14 | New Balance® - Mesh Cushioned Running Shoe for Daily Miles | Fresh Foam X 1080 V15 | Fresh Foam X 1080 V15 |
| New Balance |
| 15 | Brooks® - Cushioned Waterproof Running Shoe for Daily Miles | Ghost 14 GTX | Ghost 14 GTX |
| Brooks |
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
- MedlinePlus (NIH): Plantar fasciitis
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (OrthoInfo): Plantar Fasciitis and Bone Spurs
- NHS: Heel pain
Update History
- Oct 2026: Updated New Balance 990V5 to New Balance 840 V5
- Oct 2026: Updated Altra Olympus 4 to ALTRA Olympus 7 Trail
- Oct 2026: Updated Asics Gel Kayano 28 to ASICS GT-2000 14
- Oct 2026: Updated Brooks Addiction Walker to Brooks Addiction Walker Suede
- Oct 2026: Updated Spira Classic to Spira Classic Leather
- Oct 2026: Updated Clarks Wave Andes to Clarks Un Adorn Zip
- Oct 2026: Updated Asics Gel Cumulus 27 to ASICS Gel-Excite 11
- Oct 2026: Updated Gravity Defyer Pain Relief to Gravity Defyer GDEFY MATeeM
- Oct 2026: Updated Mizuno Wave Creation 21 to Mizuno Wave Creation 25
- Oct 2026: Updated Asics Gel Nimbus 27 to ASICS GT-2000 15
- Oct 2026: Updated Teva Hurricane to Teva Hurricane XLT 2
- Oct 2026: Updated Skechers Go Walk 5 Honor to a current in-stock listing
- Oct 2026: Updated New Balance 680V7 to New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V15
- Oct 2026: Updated Brooks Ghost 14 to Brooks Ghost 14 GTX
- Oct 2026: Removed Dr. Comfort Refresh, Vionic Orthaheel Walker, ECCO Yucatan and MBT Pumps (unavailable)
- May 2025: Added Asics Gel Cumulus 27 and Asics Gel Nimbus 27
- Mar 2022: Added ECCO Yucatan
- Aug 2021: Added Brooks Ghost 14
- Jul 2021: Added New Balance 680V7
- Jun 2021: Added Asics Gel Kayano 28, Propet Stability Walker and Mizuno Wave Creation 21
- Sep 2020: Added Altra Olympus 4
- Aug 2020: Added New Balance 990V5
- May 2020: Added MBT Pumps, Teva Hurricane and Skechers Go Walk 5 Honor
- Apr 2019: Added Brooks Addiction Walker, Dr. Comfort Refresh, Clarks Wave Andes, Gravity Defyer Pain Relief and Vionic Orthaheel Walker
- Sep 2016: First published
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