Best Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis 2019 with Buying Guide:
The most prevalent source of heel pain is plantar fasciitis. Some athletes refer to it as “heel spurs.” The pain occurs when spurs form on the plantar fasciitis ligament running on the sole of your foot.
Sometimes, your feet can be out of alignment and start separating from the heel. Eventually, this leads to a calcium buildup and causes pain in the heel. For some people, the pain becomes unbearable and forces them to stay off their feet.
Best Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis Pain Relief
Table of Contents
1. Satima Active Sneaker:
These Vionic cuties have a simple design but look sophisticated. For plantar fasciitis problems, the sneaker provides excellent support with maximum cushioning. According to many women, the shoe fits perfectly out of the box and has a durable construction.
The one-piece mesh upper has a lacing system that is easy to use and gives a snug fit to keep the feet secure when walking. You have a cable system at the top of the foot that helps distribute tension and keeps your foot in place. The sneakers are airy and keep your feet dry.
The EVA inserts are covered with fabric and help protect the heel to help boost forward movement. Further, it provides the best arch support and does not have a squashy feeling compared to motion-control footwear. The collars are well-padded, and the tongue offers cushioning to keep the feet comfortable.
Features:
- Color: Five shades available
- Closure: Lace-up with cable system at the top
- Design: Mesh Upper with PU Overlays and Reinforced Toe with EVA Footbed
- Size: Wide selection available
Pros:
- Well Padded
- Comfortable out of the box
- A wide array of colors
- Breathable and lightweight
Cons:
- Measurement varies by size
The Satima walking shoe is ideal for plantar fasciitis sufferers. Its lightweight design in various shades offers a comfortable fit. The sneaker comes highly recommended, and sizes may vary depending on your foot measurement.
2. Contest Active Walking Shoe:
The lace-up sneaker from Vionic is a great shoe to wear when suffering from foot pain. The men’s walking shoe provides stability and support and helps alleviate plantar fasciitis problems. The footwear has an exquisite design and does not look like an orthotic shoe.
The black, charcoal, and light grey colour offers you the versatility to wear daily for exercising or with a pair of jeans. The lightweight construction allows you to walk comfortably for long distances. The mesh upper makes it breathable to keep the feet dry.
The simple lacing system allows you to put them on or take off quickly. Further, the arch support system provides just the right cushioning for the feet. The insole has an EVA structure, and you can remove and replace it with a plantar fasciitis insole.
Features:
- Color: Three shades available
- Closure: Lace-up design
- Design: EVA Footbed, Mesh Upper, Rubber Outsole with Removable Insole
- Size: 7M US and 8M US
Pros:
- If you suffer from low back pain, these walking shoes are perfect
- Outstanding arch support
- Fantastic fit and appearance
- Comfortable
Cons:
- It does not relieve enough pain if you have flat feet, plantar fasciitis, and Achilles tendonitis.
With the Vionic Contest Active walking shoe, you get a snug fit right out of the box. The sizes are accurate and provide enough support for the foot. Further, the price is affordable.
3. Orthofeet Diabetic Athletic Shoe:
The Sandy women’s walking shoe gives your feet the best arch support. The fit is relaxed and offers maximum protection on the pressure points. The orthotic cushioned sole provides a stable and natural foot motion.
If you suffer from plantar fasciitis or have diabetes, the sneaker is highly recommended. Furthermore, it helps to reduce heel, arch, knee, and foot pain. The toe box has a broad construction to keep the foot relaxed and helps spread the toes out naturally. The athletic shoe is lightweight with air cushioning, provides extra depth, and has a seam-free design.
The best of all is you can try them risk-free with the money-back guarantee.
Features:
- Color: Gray
- Closure: Lace-up design
- Design: Air Cushioning with Non-Binding Knit Upper and wide-toe box with Padded Interior Lining
- Size: Wide selection available
Pros:
- Extremely Comfortable
- Lightweight
- It helps relieve plantar fasciitis pain and other ailments
Cons:
- It has a full-toe box but still pushes the toes into a V-shape
According to many athletes, Sandy footwear is well worth buying. The shoe fits perfectly out of the box and provides the proper arch support. The sneakers are well-made and have no seams that irritate the feet.
4. Orthofeet Ventura Athletic Shoe:
For the best men’s walking shoe for plantar fasciitis, no one does it as the Orthofeet range. The shoe looks elegant and has a sleek leather upper available in black and white. The finish is stylish and can handle outdoor elements with waterproof construction.
Further, it provides anatomical arch support, and the contour of the orthotic insole to the shape of your foot. The shoe helps prevent knee, heel, and lower back pain. The toe rooms are massive and provide ample room for the toes to move. Alternatively, the sneaker’s breathable design keeps the feet dry and refreshed.
Features:
- Color: Black or White
- Closure: Lace-up design
- Design: Leather Upper, Orthotic Insole, Easy Gait System and Non-Binding
- Size: Wide assortment available
Pros:
- Comfortable
- Support
- Weatherproof
- Lightweight
Cons:
- The shoes are more comprehensive than expected
Get these shoes to help relieve heel, leg, back, and knee pain. They are suitable for walking long distances and standing all day. The toe box provides enough room for the toes to move, and the breathable design keeps the feet dry.
5. Vionic Elation 1.0 Women’s Walking Sneaker:
For one of the most popular walking shoe brands, look at the Vionic Elation 1.0. The footwear has a perforated memory foam footbed for the best arch support. It is lightweight on the feet and needs no break-in time. The shoe is comfortable from the first time you put it on your feet.
If you suffer from overpronating, these shoes provide the stability you need. They also help with chronic joint and heel pain when walking. The collar around the sneaker and tongues are padded for comfort. The shoe has a lace-up system to adjust the fit for ease of putting on and taking off.
The interior lining is breathable, and the uppers are made of synthetic and textile fabric. It will feel like you are walking on air all day.
Features:
- Color: Seven stylish shades
- Closure: Lace-up design
- Design: EVA Rubber Outsole, Synthetic and Textile Upper, and Perforated Memory Foam Footbed
- Size: Extensive assortment available
Pros:
- It feels like heaven on the feet
- It gives you balance and keeps the foot aligned
- Not a too-high arch support
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Style runs a bit short, and it best to buy a pair ½ a size up
The walking shoe for plantar fasciitis is perfect to wear all day. You will not experience foot pain but remember to buy a half-size bigger as the sizes run small.
6. Dr. Comfort Performance-X Walking Shoe:
Are you an active person who needs a walking shoe for plantar fasciitis pain? You need the Performance Athletic Shoe from Dr. Comfort. The sneaker is breathable and lightweight. Another highlight is the need not to tie shoelaces, and it still offers firm support.
Furthermore, it has an arch stabilizer and a thick cushioned footbed to prevent pressure and blisters. The cross-trainer can be adjusted with a toggle closure, and the seamless construction prevents irritation. The upper mesh construction keeps the feet dry, and the footbeds are removable.
The toe box provides protection when running on rough terrain and offers a firm heel counter. These sneakers are great for any ailment.
Features:
- Color: Black/Gray, Gray/Yellow, Blue, and Red
- Closure: Toggle Closure
- Design: Leather and Mesh Upper, Removable Footbed, Rubber Outsole
- Included: Extra gel plus insoles
- Size: Extensive selection available
Pros:
- Comfortable
- Easy to put on and take off with the toggle closure
- Does not squash your toes
- Outstanding customer support
Cons:
- The tread wear is not the best after wearing it for a couple of months
The shoe’s well-structured design makes it easy to put on and take off, especially if you have diabetes. It is comfortable and provides ample arch, toe, and heel support. You can wear sneakers all day, and they are suitable for long-distance walking.
7. Orthofeet Tahoe Comfort Shoe:
The walking shoe from Orthofeet is a casual sneaker made for doing casual sports. You can wear them to the gym or work. The feet remain comfortable and are lightweight. The sneaker has a classic design with a synthetic upper and is easy to keep clean.
Further, the shoe’s upper is breathable to keep the feet fresh. The cushioned collar and tongue provide comfort without irritation. No matter where you walk, the outsole offers enough grips on slippery, wet ground. The footwear has an orthotic insole, giving enough arch support and support to the feet.
The uppers are non-binding and have a toe box with seam-free interior lining and padded foam.
Features:
- Color: White/Pink, White/Blue, Black
- Closure: Lace-up
- Design: Leather and Mesh Upper, Orthotic Insole, Wide Toe Box, and Seam-Free Interior
- Size: Extensive sizes available
Pros:
- Comfortable
- Excellent arch support
- Enough movement in the toe section
- Perfect fit with excellent cushioning
Cons:
- It is a bit hard on the inside for some athletes
The walking shoe provides impressive traction, and the padding is comfortable. The stylish finish allows you to wear it to work, the gym, and long distances. Another benefit is that it is footwear made for plantar fasciitis pain.
8. Vionic Walker Classic Shoe:
The Walker Classic sneaker keeps you moving with comfort and support. Its cushioned outsole and breathable upper are suitable for work and play. The top is weather-resistant and made of leather, and it has an action lacing system.
The polyester mesh liner with a PU foam base makes the shoe breathable to keep the feet dry. The EVA midsole you can remove, and it has a .5-inch elevation. The elevation allows for a smooth transition in your heel-to-toe strike. The heel counters thermoplastic and provides support and stability.
The rubber outsoles are durable and provide enough grip when walking on rough terrains.
Features:
- Color: Five Colors Available
- Closure: Action Lacing System
- Design: Suede and Mesh Upper, Active Motion System Technology, Water-Resistant, Cushioned EVA Midsole
- Size: Extensive size available in medium and wide widths
Pros:
- Breathable
- Flexible
- Comfortable
- Removable EVA Midsole
- Durable Outsole
Cons:
- Some minor complaints that the shoe squeaks when walking
The sneaker makes you feel like you are walking on air. The footbed offers enough cushioning and support to prevent foot, arch, heel, and knee pain.
9. Orthofeet Coral Walking Shoe:
One of Orthofeets best walking shoes is the Coral sneaker. The footwear has ample cushioning to give stability and support for over-pronators. Walking on uneven surfaces is a breeze and keeps the feet protected. The footbed has extra depth with a full toe box, allowing the feet to move around freely.
The lightweight sole offers you ample cushioning to help relieve pressure on impact. The interior is seam-free with padded foam for comfort. For the best foot motion, the sneaker has an ergonomic stride design and is flexible. Further, the shoe feels like you are wearing a sock.
Features:
- Colour: Black, Gray, and Turquoise
- Closure: Lace-up
- Design: Mesh and Synthetic Upper, Gel-Padded Heel-Seat, Non-Binding with Added Depth Design
- Size: Wide-ranging sizes available
Pros:
- Unmatched Cushioning
- The arch supports are comfortable
- It helps relieve heel pain
- Breathable and reduces pressure generally found on the bottom of the foot
Cons:
- No cushioning in the toe section
The walking shoe provides fantastic anatomical support and is perfect for those with heel pain. If you have severe foot symptoms, try a pair; you may even notice a difference.
10. Urban Fox Parker Wool Sneakers.
The RBAN Fox is the ultimate men’s walking shoe brand. The wool sneaker offers you fashion and style to wear with any outfit. The footwear has a natural, synthetic material structure. The fully lined shoe provides the best comfort and flexibility for moving with the feet.
The rubber sole has a durable tread to give a perfect grip on rough terrains. You can buy the shoes in different colors, styles, and sizes. Further, you will receive a thirty-day money-back guarantee. Another benefit is that the shoe design has little seams and forms to fit the foot perfectly.
Features:
- Color: Black, Light Gray/White, and Charcoal Gray/White
- Closure: Adjustable Laces
- Design: Wool and Polyester Upper, Padded Collar and Insole, and Foam Rubber Outsole
- Size: Wide-ranging selection available
Pros:
- Durable and lightweight
- Comfortable
- Feels like you are wearing wool socks
- Fit perfectly when put on for the first time
Cons:
- Best to buy a size bigger
The walking shoes for plantar fasciitis are lightweight and comfortable enough to wear every day. You can walk for miles without feeling tired. The fantastic thing is that you can weatherproof them by using a scotch guard.
Final Thoughts
We have come to the end of our walking shoes for plantar fasciitis reviews. We hope the list helps you find a suitable pair to help prevent this irritating pain. Always remember to pick the best cushioning, heel drop, sole design, and correct toe box. With these features taken into consideration, you can discover the best one to make you walk long distances and stand for hours without feeling much pain.
Luckily, there is a cure to help relieve the pain by doing exercises and making a lifestyle change. One of these changes is wearing the right walking shoes for plantar fasciitis.
We are here to assist, but before you buy a pair of sneakers to ease the pain, read the buyer’s guide on how to pick the right shoes.
Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis Buyer’s Guide
The only way you can tell if you have plantar fasciitis is if you feel pain in your heel when treading on it early in the morning. As the day progresses and the muscle warms up, the pain diminishes. You can also feel pain when driving, walking, and massaging your foot.
The problem is that when the pain progresses, it can weigh down some of the activities you partake in. The first place to start is looking at the type of shoe you wear. The footwear must fit well and have the correct insole with enough compression to protect the foot.
Finding the Correct Shoe for Plantar Fasciitis
One of the main reasons you can suffer from plantar fasciitis is wearing a poorly fitted shoe. If you are active, overweight, or have diabetes, wearing a well-fitted orthopedic shoe is essential. Wearing the wrong footwear does not align and support the arch and heel, causing overpronation.
With excessive stress on the arches, they eventually collapse, and the muscles become loose, developing calcium deposits. Here are some helpful tips for finding the best walking shoe to help relieve plantar fasciitis pain.
- Slip-on or laced shoes – a slip-on shoe fits loose and provides no support while a lacing you can adjust for a custom fit.
- Heel counter: This section of the shoe needs to be firm and supportive. The rear of the walking shoe needs to enclose and support the heel bone. Further, it needs to be comfortable and consistent.
- Elevated heel – the heel should be at least one inch high to help relieve pressure in the heel.
- A comfortable sole – do not pick a bottom that is too soft, as it does not provide enough support for the arches. Further, it will not help align the ankle and feet. When holding the shoe, you must not be able to bend or twist it easily. It should only turn at the toes, where it connects with the feet.
- Flat sole or rocker sole—the best option is a rocker sole, as it helps absorb shock on impact when you step forward. Also, make sure the footwear has an excellent toe rocker. With the correct rocker, your toes can roll off the shoe, and your feet can move in a natural forward motion when walking or running.
- Firm arch support – this is very important, and you can improve the walking shoe for plantar fasciitis with an orthotic insole here to provide a perfect fit.
As you can see, there are three main approaches when purchasing the right shoe: it needs to support the arch, reduce the Achilles load, and decrease the effects of the “windlass mechanism” associated with movement in the toe section.