What to Buy Fitness Gear The 13 Best Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis of 2023 Podiatrist-approved shoes to support you every mile By Susan Brickell and Sarah Felbin Sarah Felbin With over two decades of dance experience, Sarah Felbin loves diving into the latest wellness research. As a health and fitness writer, she's passionate about finding products that are a great value and make life easier. Her work has appeared in POPSUGAR and Women’s Health magazine, among others. health's editorial guidelines Updated on June 15, 2023 Medically reviewed by Adam H. Kaplan, DPM Medically reviewed by Adam H. Kaplan, DPM Adam H. Kaplan, DPM, is a podiatrist and attending physician practicing at Robert Wood Johnson Barnabas Health and Roosevelt Care Center. learn more In This Article Expand Jump to a Section Our top picks Reviews How We Selected Key Features to Look For What to Avoid Your Questions, Answered Who We Are We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Health / Jaclyn Mastropasqua Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common triggers for heel pain, especially among runners. Regular stretching is a good start, but you may also want to invest in a running sneaker that helps alleviate foot pain. "The plantar fascia is a shock-absorbing bowstring-like thick ligament that connects your heel to your toes," explains New York City-based podiatrist Miguel Cunha, DPM. "When you stand, your arch collapses, causing this bowstring to stretch out, leading to the formation of micro-tears in the ligament that can result in weakness, swelling, and irritation of the plantar fascia." While supportive footwear is always recommended for alleviating pain, Dr. Grant Duong stresses that a new pair of shoes won't fully heal your plantar fasciitis since "the problem lies within the actual foot posture and foot and calf muscles." Consulting with an expert can help you determine the root of your foot pain and help you treat it. But looking for shoes specifically designed to support plantar fasciitis is also important. The best running shoes for plantar fasciitis have a wide toe box, are highly cushioned but have a rigid midsole, a heel height between .5 and 4 centimeters with a rocker design and a small heel drop. We looked at dozens of running shoes and compared them against each other, looking closely at each of these key features. A podiatrist on our Medical Expert Board also reviewed this article for medical and scientific accuracy surrounding what to look for in running shoes for plantar fasciitis, what to avoid, and whether it's ok to run with the condition. Signs of Plantar Fasciitis The most common sign of plantar fasciitis is stabbing pain in the bottom of your foot when you get out of bed in the morning, after standing for prolonged periods of time, or when you stand up after sitting for a while. It's also common to experience pain after you exercise, rather than during your workout. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 Running Shoes at Amazon Jump to Review Best Women’s: Hoka Gaviota 4 at Zappos Jump to Review Best Men’s: Asics Gel-Kayano 28 at Amazon Jump to Review Best Value: Asics Gel-Excite 9 at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Bunions: Orthofeet Coral Stretch Knit Shoe at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Flat Feet: Brooks Running Shoe at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Wide Feet: New Balance MADE in USA 990v5 Core at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Narrow Feet: New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 880v12 at Amazon Jump to Review Best for High Arches: Hoka Bondi 8 at Zappos Jump to Review Best for Overpronation: New Balance Fresh Foam 860v12 at Amazon Jump to Review Best Overall Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 Running Shoes 4.9 Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Nordstrom Why We Like It These sneakers are highly recommended by the podiatrists we spoke to and they have a midsole that helps align your foot. It’s Worth Noting This shoe isn’t designed for running off-road, so you’ll want to stick to the pavement. The newest iteration of Brooks’ Adrenaline shoes, the GTS 22, is our top choice because it combines plush cushioning with solid support. “This is a really great stability type of running shoe,” says Saylee Tulpule, DPM, a podiatrist based in Washington, DC. “It’s got a midsole to help keep your foot in proper alignment with each step you take while running.” The Adrenaline GTS 22 also boasts the APMA Seal of Acceptance, which means the American Podiatric Medical Association has determined that it promotes good foot health. The midsole features a unique design: “Because of the built-up arch in the midsole of the shoe, it’s going to stabilize the foot,” Dr. Tulpule explains. The shoe contains Brooks’ GuideRails, a support system that takes the pressure off not only your heels but your knees and hips, too. And we love the breathable, synthetic upper that keeps your feet cool and comfortable, even in warm weather. The shoe weighs in at 9.1 ounces—which, while heavy for a running sneaker, follows podiatrist guidelines, explains Nelya Lobkova, DPM, a podiatrist based in New York City. She recommends wearing shoes that weigh over 9 ounces because their weight indicates that they have the right level of stability and support. Even though the Adrenaline GTS 22 has plenty of expert-loved features, it’s not designed for off-road running. Price at time of publication: $140 Product Details: Size Range: 5 to 13Available Widths: 4Material: Synthetic, rubber, foam Best Women’s Hoka Women's Gaviota 4 Nordstrom View On Zappos View On Nordstrom Why We Like It This shoe has a rocker shape and a low heel-to-toe drop, two features our experts recommend. It’s Worth Noting It only comes in two widths and may need a break-in period. Another APMA seal-winning sneaker, Hoka’s Gaviota 4, is our top women’s pick because it’s designed with features podiatrists love. It has a 5-millimeter drop, which Dr. Lobkova says reduces the stress on your heel: “If your heel is a little lower, then you actually hit the midfoot faster, so it’s a little less impactful that way,” she explains. She adds that the Gaviota 4’s rocker design (a thicker sole and rounded heel) evenly distributes your body weight throughout your foot. This pair has thick, soft cushioning, plus a stability system that helps prevent overpronation. We love that you can easily slip this shoe on and off using the heel tab. The upper, which is made of lightweight mesh, offers a snug, locked-in feel. However, these sneakers only come in two widths, so runners with wide or narrow feet may not be able to find the right fit. They may also need a break-in period. Price at time of publication: $170 Product Details: Size Range: 5 to 12Available Widths: 2Material: Mesh, foam, rubber, recycled polyester Best Men’s Asics Men's Gel-Kayano 28 4.2 Amazon View On Amazon View On Asics.com View On Champssports.com Why We Like It Extra gel padding in the heel and a sturdy design stabilize your feet while you run. It’s Worth Noting The Gel Kayano 28 has a higher heel-to-toe drop and may be too cushioned to fit insoles or orthotics inside. Asics’ Gel Kayano 28 is designed to address overpronation, low arches, and flat feet. It’s also one of Dr. Tulpule’s top picks: “It’s got enough cushioning through the midsole that can better help support the plantar fascia,” or the band of tissue in the arch of your foot that is inflamed in people with plantar fasciitis. We love the durable rubber outsole, which is tougher in key areas to prevent the shoes from wearing down too quickly. Gel cushioning under the heel helps evenly distribute shock while you run. And the Kayano 28 weighs almost 11 ounces, meaning it passes Dr. Lobkova’s test for a supportive shoe. This shoe has a breathable mesh upper to increase airflow if your feet tend to sweat on long runs. And for blister-prone runners who still want a close fit, there’s a low-profile heel counter (the rear portion of the shoe that comes up to cover your heel). Although these features add up to a shoe that’s loved by our experts, the Kayano 28 does have a higher, 10-millimeter heel-to-toe drop. Also, it may have too much cushioning for runners who like to add their own insoles or custom orthotics. Price at time of publication: $160 Product Details: Size Range: 7 to 16Available Widths: 3Material: Mesh, foam, gel, rubber The 7 Best Foot Massagers of 2023, Tested and Reviewed by Our Editors Best Value Asics Women's Gel-Excite 9 4.6 Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Zappos Why We Like It A combination of foam and gel cushioning feels soft underfoot and absorbs shock, so you can focus on your pace. It’s Worth Noting These shoes have a higher heel-to-toe drop and aren’t waterproof. Asics’ Gel-Excite 9 is stable, cushioned, and budget-friendly. The mesh upper is soft and breathable, and an internal liner wicks away moisture to prevent unpleasant odors from building up. We love that these sneakers have two types of cushioning: Foam in the midsole and gel in the heel that makes the shoe feel softer when your foot hits the ground. There’s also a vertical groove in the midsole to gently correct your gait or the way you run (which includes your stride length, cadence, and speed). While they weigh less than some of our other top picks at 7.7 ounces, they have the support and cushioning that casual runners need to feel confident and comfortable. However, they have a heel-to-toe drop of 10 millimeters, which is greater than podiatrists recommend for people with plantar fasciitis. These sneakers also aren’t waterproof, so they may not be the best choice for running in wet weather. Price at time of publication: $75 Product Details: Size Range: 5 to 12Available Widths: 2Material: Mesh, foam, gel, rubber The 12 Best Running Shoes With Arch Support of 2023 Best for Bunions Orthofeet Coral Stretch Knit Shoe 5 Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Zappos Why We Like It With customizable arch support, plenty of cushioning, and a rocker design, this shoe is built to ease the pressure. It’s Worth Noting Coral Stretch Knit shoes aren’t waterproof or machine-washable. Runners with bunions need a shoe with a wide toe box to relieve pressure. Orthofeet’s Coral Stretch Knit shoes offer plenty of width, plus a soft, padded interior that’s designed to protect sensitive feet from irritation. We love that these sneakers have orthotic insoles with a separate arch support that’s removable for customizable stability. A rocker design distributes your weight evenly, while an outsole made from durable rubber helps you grip the pavement. These shoes come in four widths, from narrow to extra-wide. We also like that each pair comes with two removable spacers, so you can add even more room if you need it. And the midsole is made from anti-microbial fabric, so odors and bacteria won’t build up over time. But they do require some maintenance—they aren’t waterproof, and they can’t be machine-washed. Price at time of publication: $143 Product Details: Size Range: 5 to 12Available Widths: 4Material: Fabric, polyester, foam, rubber Best for Flat Feet Brooks Men's Beast 20 Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Zappos Why We Like It The well-cushioned Beast ‘20 has a stability system that supports the arch of your foot and reduces excess motion. It’s Worth Noting The heel counter may be too short for some runners, which can cause fit issues. “If you do have flat feet, you want to be fitted for a shoe that provides you with enough arch support,” Dr. Tulpule says. This pair has Brooks’ highest level of support, including the brand’s GuideRails system, which reduces excess motion. We love that this shoe has earned the APMA seal, meaning it’s been proven to protect your feet and provide relief. There’s also soft cushioning inside and a sleek, breathable mesh upper. And weighing in at almost 12 ounces, the Beast ‘20 is sturdy enough to meet Dr. Lobkova’s criteria. Although it’s not meant for speed, this plush running shoe can take you from the asphalt to the track. However, some runners may find the heel counter too short, which can affect how the shoe fits. Note that these sneakers only come in men’s sizes, but many women also find that they fit well. Price at time of publication: $160 Product Details: Size Range: 8 to 16Available Widths: 3Material: Canvas, foam, rubber The 12 Best Shoes for Flat Feet Best for Wide Feet New Balance MADE in USA 990v5 Core Zappos View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Nordstrom Why We Like It With five different widths to choose from, this New Balance pick offers plenty of room for wide feet and custom orthotics. It’s Worth Noting These sneakers are more expensive than some of our other picks. “New Balance tends to be a good, stable shoe with a nice amount of stability,” Dr. Lobkova says. Weighing 13.7 ounces, the 990v5 is one of our top picks from the brand. A firm, removable midsole sits on top of foam cushioning that cradles your foot for stability. Meanwhile, a foam collar supports your ankles as you run. Getting the right fit is simple, even with your own insoles or orthotics. Offered in sizes 5 to 13, the 990v5 sneakers also come in five different widths. We love that the toe box is large enough to relieve pressure, even for swollen feet. And they’re machine-washable, so you can keep running even when the weather turns. At $175, the price point is high compared to other shoes on our list—although with so many foot-friendly features, we think they’re worth the splurge. Price at time of publication: $175 Product Details: Size Range: 5 to 13Available Widths: 4Material: Suede, mesh, foam, polyurethane, rubber Best for Narrow Feet New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 880v12 4.5 New Balance View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Dick's Why We Like It This pair has two layers of cushioning and an outsole with good traction, plus a wide toe box that cuts down on irritation. It’s Worth Noting The laces may be too short for some runners, and you may need to order a size up. Another pick from New Balance, the Fresh Foam X 880v12 sneakers have a dual-layer foam midsole to cushion your stride. Available in a narrow width, their slim design won’t leave your feet shifting around inside during your run. Two layers of mesh create an upper that’s tough but breathable, so your feet stay cool and dry. And we love that they’re built for durability, so you don’t have to sacrifice distance for the right fit. The rubber outsole offers good traction, so you can jog confidently on asphalt and concrete. Meanwhile, padding around the ankle and the heel collar helps prevent blisters. A wide toe box prevents irritation and takes the pressure off your toes, so you can focus on the path ahead. However, the laces may be too short for some runners. These sneakers also tend to run small, so you may want to order a size up when purchasing. Price at time of publication: $135 Product Details: Size Range: 5 to 13Available Widths: 4Materials: Mesh, foam, rubber Best for High Arches Hoka Women's Bondi 8 4.8 Hoka View On Zappos View On Nordstrom View On Walmart Why We Like It With a low heel-to-toe drop and thick cushioning, the Bondi 8 is approved by our experts and the APMA. It’s Worth Noting The shoe is wide and may feel clunky to wear. Dr. Lobkova says she often recommends Hoka shoes to patients: “They tend to be very cushioned. They also tend to have a lower drop,” she adds, “that works very nicely for heel pain.” The APMA seal-winning Bondi 8 is one of her top picks. With a 4-millimeter heel-to-toe drop and plush foam padding throughout the midsole, they’re comfortable for runners with high arches and can correct your stride. The mesh upper is made with recycled materials and comes in a range of bright and neutral colors. We love the memory foam collar, which supports your ankles, and the rear crash pad that cushions your heel. There’s also a heel pull tab, so you can easily slip them on and off. Price at time of publication: $165 Product Details: Size Range: 5 to 12Available Widths: 2Materials: Mesh, foam, rubber The 18 Best Walking Shoes for High Arches of 2023 Best for Overpronation New Balance Fresh Foam 860v12 4.2 Amazon View On Amazon View On Dick's Why We Like It Reflective details help you stay safe in low-light conditions, while a structured heel cuts down on excess motion. It’s Worth Noting The cushioning may not be thick enough for some. “For those that are pronators, I usually recommend the New Balance Fresh Foam 860v12,” Dr. Tulpule explains. This pair is one of her top picks because the foam midsole is “nice and thick and bouncy, and it really helps to control that degree of pronation.” A molded heel that prevents excessive motion contributes to a shoe that’s built to help you tackle many miles. If you like to run outdoors, these sneakers have reflective details to make you visible to cars and pedestrians. And we like the mesh upper, which promotes airflow even in warm weather. These sneakers also have a different design compared to other picks on our list—they’re sleek and low-profile, so you get the support you need in a stylish sneaker that won’t slow you down. But this design does come at a cost: Some runners may need more padding. Price at time of publication: $140 Product Details: Size Range: 5 to 13Available Widths: 4Materials: Mesh, foam, rubber Best for Trails Brooks Caldera 6 Brooks View On Brooksrunning.com View On REI Why We Like It Built for running on rugged terrain, the Caldera 6 has a low heel-to-toe drop and a stable design. It’s Worth Noting The toe box may be narrow and could feel tight for some runners. A tough, durable sneaker that can take on rough, steep trails, Brooks’ Caldera 6 is designed to carry you comfortably for long distances. The shoe has high side walls and a wide platform for added stability, plus it has a toe cap to prevent injuries from rocks and debris. A lace keeper tucks shoelaces out of the way, so they don’t get caught while you run. And you can attach gaiters in the front and back in wet or muddy conditions to prevent debris or dirt from getting into your shoes. We love the tough and durable sole—it offers traction on all kinds of terrain, so you can run with confidence. Plus, there’s a low, 6-millimeter heel-to-toe drop. Weighing 9.8 ounces, the Caldera 6 has the support system you need to take on your favorite outdoor routes. Price at time of publication: $150 Product Details: Size Range: 5 to 12Available Widths: 1Materials: Mesh, foam, rubber Best for Sprints Nike Men's Vaporfly 2 Dick's Sporting Goods View On Dick's View On Nike.com View On Prodirectsport.com Why We Like It The VaporFly’s unique design includes side supports, extra cushioning under the heel, and a wide toe box. It’s Worth Noting These shoes are the most expensive on our list and only come in one width. Nike’s ZoomX VaporFly Next% 2 is a breathable shoe that’s ready to help you beat your personal record. We love the side supports that stabilize your arch while keeping your laces out of the way. Extra foam under the heel cushions your stride, and a wide toe box takes the pressure off your toes. And a carbon fiber plate that runs the length of the shoe propels you forward. The VaporFly can go from the gym to the track—its grooved sole has enough traction to propel you forward in all kinds of weather. The streamlined design comes in a range of bright and neon colors. However, this pair is significantly more expensive than our other picks. Also, they’re only available in one width, so they may not be right for runners with wide feet, narrow feet, or thick orthotics. Price at time of publication: $250 Product Details: Size Range: 5 to 12Available Widths: 1Materials: Mesh, foam, rubber Best for Long Distances Asics GEL-Nimbus 24 Running Shoe Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Nordstrom Why We Like It Designed for runners with high arches, the Gel-Nimbus 24 combines thick cushioning with a supportive, knit tongue. It’s Worth Noting They tend to run small, so you may want to order a half size up. Whether you’re running a race or jogging laps around your neighborhood for long distances, you need a shoe that’s well-cushioned and durable—like Asics’ Gel-Nimbus 24. It has foam and gel padding to cushion your steps. A soft mesh upper made with recycled materials stays breathable from mile one to mile 10. We love the tongue, which is made from a thick knit fabric that offers additional support from the top of the shoe. While this pair is designed for runners with high arches, those with neutral arches can also benefit from the smoother stride it provides. But it’s only available in two widths, regular and wide, which may not fit all runners. Also, the Gel-Nimbus 24 tends to run small, so you may need to order a half size up from your usual. Price at time of publication: $160 Product Details: Size Range: 5 to 13Available Widths: 2Materials: Mesh, foam, gel, rubber How We Selected We consulted four podiatrists, who recommended the best features to look for in running shoes for plantar fasciitis. Experts we spoke to included: Miguel Cunha, DPM, New York City-based podiatrist Grant Duong, Podiatrist at Triumph Institute, Sydney, Australia Saylee Tulpule, DPM, a podiatrist based in Washington, DC. Nelya Lobkova, DPM, a podiatrist based in New York City Dr. Tulpule and Dr. Lobkova also shared their favorite pairs of sneakers from brands they often recommend to their patients. Then, we researched dozens of other running shoes from the most popular brands and retailers to create our list. What to Know About Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis While there aren't plantar fasciitis-specific running shoes, there are some smart features to look for when shopping. Experts recommend choosing sneakers with good arch support, supportive cushioning, shock-absorbing soles, a deep heel cup, and a spacious toe box to keep plantar fasciitis symptoms at bay. "A well-cushioned footbed and anatomical arch support to hold the plantar fascia and prevent it from collapsing to minimize fatigue and pain," Dr. Cunha shares. "Increased rigidity of the heel cup can help maintain proper foot realignment and maintain pressure relief of the plantar fascia by withstanding the impact of each heel strike." Key Features to Look For A wide toe box: If you overpronate, a wide toe box can take the pressure off of your toes. Extra cushioning: Thick padding in the midsole and the heel absorbs shock, which can be especially helpful for underpronators. A rigid midsole: “It will allow for stability, and it won’t allow for flexion in the arch area because too much flexion there can contribute to tearing [of the plantar fascia],” Dr. Lobkova says. You shouldn’t be able to bend or twist the shoe in half, she adds. Heel height: The best running shoes for plantar fasciitis will have a heel height between 0.5 and 4 centimeters, one study found. A rocker design: This shoe shape has been proven to decrease plantar fasciitis pain, and Dr. Lobkova also recommends it. An added insole can help you get the full benefits of a rocker shoe. A heavy shoe: Dr. Lobkova also recommends looking for shoes that weigh over 9 ounces because their weight indicates that they will probably have enough built-in support for your feet. A small heel-to-toe drop: “Look for lower heel-toe drop,” Dr. Lobkova says. “Usually, below 8 [millimeters] helps with the kind of transitioning during running.” A bend just before the toes: Our experts suggest bending the shoe in half—if it bends at the balls of your feet, just before the toes, it's a good sneaker. What to Avoid A low heel height: Shoes with a flat heel that’s less than 0.5 cm tall may not have enough padding to cushion your heel. Hard insoles: Shoes with flat insoles that aren’t cushioned might not be comfortable to wear for long periods of time. Flat midsoles: Shoes that don’t have any built-in arch support won’t help stabilize your foot.A bend mid-arch: Our experts suggest bending the shoe in half—if it bends in the middle of the shoe (mid-arch) or anywhere other than just before the toes, it's not a great shoe. Your Questions, Answered What type of running shoe is best for plantar fasciitis? “Shoe fit is complex. It’s very personal,” Dr. Lobkova explains. To find the shoe that’s right for you, Dr. Tulpule recommends asking a podiatrist to suggest some brands of running shoes, which you can find at a specialty running store. Professionals there will help you get the right fit. She adds that you may also need an orthotic, whether pre-made or custom, to provide your feet with additional support. Is it okay to run if I have plantar fasciitis? “Absolutely—as long as there’s nothing major involved, such as a plantar fascia tear or a rupture,” Dr. Tulpule says. “Running is not out of the question, but it does involve being fitted for a proper shoe, as well as an orthotic. That combination should hopefully make running easier.” She also says that some runners may need to cut back on how often or how long they run at first, so their bodies can adjust to their new shoes and inserts. How much should I expect to pay for good running shoes for plantar fasciitis? You should expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $250 for a high-quality pair of running shoes for plantar fasciitis. Less expensive sneakers may not be as durable and probably won’t have enough stability or cushioning for your arch and heel. More expensive pairs will have a better support system but may have an ultra-modern design that not all runners will like. The cheapest pair of shoes on our list is often available for under $50. Our top pick, Brooks’ Adrenaline GTS 22, was $114 when we published this list. Who We Are With over two decades of dance experience, Sarah Felbin knows how important it is to find a pair of shoes with the right support and cushioning. She’s an overpronator, so she looks for sneakers with a wide toe box that will feel supportive and comfortable all day long. The 15 Most Comfortable Walking Shoes, Road Tested and Reviewed by Health Editors Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit 5 Sources Health.com uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. 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