Plantar fascia is a thick connective tissue which connects the heel bone to the base of the toes. It supports the foot arch and is involved in foot mechanisms during running and walking. Continuous stress and tension on this tissue causes plantar fasciitis, a painful inflammatory condition. Other factors associated with plantar fasciitis are the type of walking surfaces (e.g., continuous walking on hard surfaces), a sudden increase in weight and activity levels, foot structure and type of shoes. 

According to the data published by James Paget University Hospital, UK, Plantar fasciitis is the direct cause of over 80% of causes of heel pain, and the wrong choice of shoes only exacerbates it. Orthopaedics suggest various treatment options like medication, icing, taking rest, changes in activity levels, steroid injections, shock wave therapy, etc. Choosing shoes that support the heel instead of straining it is critical. The orthopaedics recommend comfortable shoes with moderately firm soles that provide adequate arch support and cushioning to the feet.

How did we select the plantar fasciitis shoes?

To facilitate the selection, we selected 100 top plantar fasciitis shoes by different brands and evaluated them based on quality, value, cushioning, comfort, responsiveness, stability and fitness. We narrowed the choice to 20 by consulting the foot-ankle experts, orthopaedics and podiatrists. We also thoroughly reviewed and analysed the user reviews. Finally, Welzo medical professionals selected and recommended the 15 best shoes for plantar fasciitis patients.

Foot care is not just limited to shoes; various other foot care products are essential. We have dozens of foot care products at Welzo. Visit the page to order your desired ones.

The best plantar fasciitis shoes of 2024

The best shoes that satisfied our criteria and attracted excellent user reviews are;

Orthofeet Coral Stretch Knit Shoes

Product specifications

Price: £70.56 (buy Orthofeet Coral Stretch Knit Shoes at ebay)

Type: Sneaker

Material: Rubber outsole, fabric lining, Knitted upper

Width: Narrow to extra wide

Heel drop: Not listed

Sizes: 5-12

Welzo review

Overall rating: 4.6/ 5

Value: 4.5/ 5

Quality: 5/ 5

Comfort: 4.5/ 5

Fit: 4.5/ 5

User rating: 4.28/ 5 (based on 24,157 reviews at Orthofeet.com)

Pros: Customisable inserts, highly stable and supportive, excellent shock absorption

Cons: Some time is needed to adapt.

Why do we recommend it?: Orthofeet Coral Stretch is very close to the custom feet, and the inserts allow the users to customise the fit. The inserts also work as boosters for the arches if desired. The testers greatly appreciated the stability of these shoes and the support they provide to the ankles and feet. The heel curve is especially important as it absorbs the shocks during walking and gives the feeling as if a person is walking on a carpet despite variations in terrain. The inserts are so effective that even using a single insert doesn't compromise the support they provide.

Issues: Some testers noted that the shoe fit changes while using extra fit for more cushioning and support. It takes some time to try different configurations and choose the one that provides the best support. 

ABEO MXV Shift Metatarsal

Product specifications

Price: £122.38 - £131.27 (buy ABEO MXV Shift Metatarsal at Amazon UK)

Type: Sneaker

Material: Rubber outsole, EVA midsole, Knit upper

Width: Medium

Heel drop: Not listed

Sizes: 6-11 (for women)

Welzo review

Overall rating: 4.9/ 5

Value: 5/ 5

Quality: 5/ 5

Comfort: 4.5/ 5

Fit: 5/ 5

User rating: 4.8/ 5 (based on 8 reviews at abeofootwear.com)

Pros: Perfect fitting, lightweight, exceptional stability 

Cons: Limited colour options

Why do we recommend it?: Our testers fell In love with the ABEO MXV Shift Metatarsal soon after using it. It fits perfectly, is extremely comfortable and light, and doesn't cause blisters or chafing. The testers highly appreciated the slightly raised heel and the grip on the back of the shoes that keeps the foot stable. Most importantly, the arches on the shoe mould according to the feet and don't cause cramping, as experienced with other plantar fasciitis shoes. The shoes provide exceptional stability and allow the testers to engage in different exercises without catching surfaces or causing pain and stumbling.

Issues: The colour options are very limited. Thus, a person may be unable to express more through shoe optics. 

WalkHero Wide Toe Shoes With Arch Support  

Product specifications

Price: 69.85-72.85$ (Buy WalkHero Wide Toe Shoes With Arch Support at walkhero.com)

Type: Sneaker

Material: Rubber, foram, leather, mesh

Width: Narrow, medium, wide

Heel drop: 8mm

Sizes: 5-12 for women, 8-13 for men

Welzo review

Overall rating: 5/ 5

Value: 5/ 5

Quality: 5/ 5

Comfort: 5/ 5

Fit: 5/ 5

User rating: 4.7/ 5 (based on thousands of reviews at walkhero.com)

Pros: Good support and fitting, excellent shock absorption, supports forward motion

Cons: Limited colour options and poor aesthetics

Why do we recommend it?: It fits perfectly like a glove and provides high support and cushion to the arches in particular. These shoes allow the toes to move without compromising stability. The feet, ankles and knees are equally supported. A tester reported that it reduces the knee pain and improves the form during the squatting. Moreover, the curve of the sole is helpful during walking and allows a person to walk longer without pain. The shoes effectively absorbed the shocks and allowed an effective forward motion. The cushion of the arch works like a springboard and allows the users to take the next step with little effort.

Issues: Limited colour options and lower aesthetic appeal are the only downsides reported by the users, as many were demanding more stylish options. However, the support and comfort these shoes provide are enough to compensate for these issues. 

On Running Cloudflyer 4

Product specifications

Price: £150.00 (buy On Running Cloudflyer 4 at on.com)

Type: Sneaker

Material: Helion foam, polyester, recycled content

Width: Medium to wide

Heel drop: 10mm

Sizes: 5-11 (for women)

Welzo review

Overall rating: 4.2/ 5 

Value: 4/ 5

Quality: 4/ 5

Comfort: 4.5/ 5

Fit: 4.5/ 5

User rating: 4.1/ 5 (based on 55 ratings at Amazon.com)

Pros: Extra grippy sole, highly supportive and comfortable, good shock absorption

Cons: Arches not designed for running

Why do we recommend it?: The extra grippy sole of the Cloudflyer provides cushion and stability. These springy shoes are highly supportive, and the testers noted feeling energised during the movement. One of the testers exclaimed that they could do what they wanted without worrying about the plantar fasciitis pain. The inside support is highly comfortable and doesn't cause cramps. Moreover, these shoes are exceptionally good at absorbing shocks from walking on different surfaces. 

Issues: Some of our testers found that their experience during running is not as good as during walking as the arches are poorly supported during running. 

Dansko Pace Walking Shoe

Product specifications

Price: £140.89 - £201.22 (buy Dansko Pace Walking Shoe at Amazon UK)

Type: Sneaker

Material: Rubber outsole, EVA midsole

Width: Medium

Heel drop: Not listed

Sizes: 5-12 (for women)

Welzo review

Overall rating: 4.87/ 5

Value: 4.5/ 5

Quality: 5/ 5

Comfort: 5/ 5

Fit: 5/ 5

User rating: 4.5/ 5 (based on 634 review at dansko.com)

Pros: Excellent arch support, solid security 

Cons: Lower visibility at night

Why do we recommend it?: It provides solid security and excellent arch support for people with plantar fasciitis. A small oval cushion in the heel offers additional comfort, and the rim around the heel cup is a unique feature as it reduces pain. The testers were impressed by the solid and firm nature of the arch support that doesn't flatten during wearing.

Issues:  A small reflective strip at the back of the shoe reduces the visibility at night, and some people find it unsuitable for evening walks. 

ASICS Gel-Venture 9

Product specifications

Price: £62.39- £64.99 (buy ASICS Gel-Venture 9 at Amazon UK)

Type: Sneaker

Material: Synthetic rubber

Width: Medium (standard)

Heel drop: Not listed

Sizes: 5-12 (for women), 7-15 (for men)

Welzo review

Overall rating: 5/ 5

Value: 5/ 5

Quality: 5/ 5

Comfort: 5/ 5

Fit: 5/ 5

User review: 4.5/ 5 (based on 812 reviews at Amazon UK)

Pros: Well-fitting, highly comfortable, effective arch and heel support, shock-absorbing ability

Cons: Poor flexibility 

Why do we recommend it?: The ASICS Gel-Venture 9 is among the most comfortable and well-fitting shoes we ever tasted. Besides excellent fitting, these shoes effectively secure and support the heel and do not cause sliding. The toe box is spacious, and arch support is very effective. The testers reported that they never felt foot pain while walking. It is helpful during running as it does not cause any slips or rubbing. The affordable price tag is an additional plus point. Our experts particularly appreciated the shock-absorbing ability of the sole and how effectively the heel cup hugged the heel.

Issues: These feet have poor flexibility. It is desirable for people with plantar fasciitis, but only for some.

Vionic Tokyo Sneaker

Product specifications

Price: £100 (buy Vionic Tokyo Sneaker at Amazon UK)

Type: Sneaker

Material: EVA, rubber, mesh

Width: Wide, medium

Heel drop: Not listed

Sizes: 5-12 (for women)

Welzo review

Overall rating: 4.4/ 5

Value: 4/ 5

Quality: 5/ 5

Comfort: 4.5/ 5

Fit: 4/ 5

User rating: 4.2/ 5 (based on 1,419 reviews at Amazon.com)

Pros: Effective arch support, effective shock absorption

Cons: Somewhat slippery, not suitable for narrow feet

Why do we recommend it?: The Vionic Tokyo Sneakers are highly effective at providing arch support and counter pressure that relieves the pressure on plantar fascia. A tester reported that the heels felt as if being hugged by a soft pillow. Besides being effective for plantar fasciitis, these shoes ease each step without putting extra pressure and strain on the feet. The sole is also highly effective at absorbing the shock of walking.

Issues: Some users reported slipping, particularly when engaged in high activity levels. The people with narrow feet also found it somewhat unsuitable.

Chacos Fields Chelsea Support

Product specifications

Price: £133.07 - £201.28 (buy Chacos Fields Chelsea Support at Amazon UK)

Type: Boot

Material: Rubber, EVA midsole, canvas, Leather

Width: Medium 

Heel drop: Not listed

Sizes: 6-11 (for women)

Welzo review

Overall rating: 4.3/ 5

Value: 4/ 5

Quality: 4.3/ 5

Comfort: 4.4/ 5

Fit: 4.5/ 5

User rating: 4.3/ 5 (based on 757 reviews at chacos.com)

Pros: Excellent for walking, good shock absorption

Cons: Too high on the legs, heavy

Why do we recommend it?: These shoes are specifically made for walking as the arch, ankles, feet, and heels remain comfortable even for long walks. These boots provide good support and stability and add extra grip. The testers particularly appreciated its shock-absorbing ability, and some remarked that the feet felt rolling despite being under the shoes. Being boots, they are heavier than other footwear but are more comfortable and less pounding than traditional boots. They are highly effective at alleviating the discomfort and pain associated with plantar fasciitis. 

Issues: It restricts movements due to being too high on the legs. 

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v13

Product specifications

Price: £93.00 – £203.97 (buy New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v13 at idealo.com)

Type: Sneaker

Material: Foam, rubber, mesh

Width: Narrow to extra wide

Heel drop: 10mm

Sizes: 7-16 (for men), 5-11 (for women)

Welzo review

Overall rating: 4.3/ 5

Value: 4/ 5

Quality: 4.5/ 5

Comfort: 4.5/ 5

Fit: 4.2/ 5

User rating: 4.4/ 5 (at Amazon.com)

Pros: High stability and support, effective bounce, high adaptability, stylish

Cons: Very high level of support causes discomfort. 

Why do we recommend it?: The New Balance Fresh Foam sneakers have a double layer of foam inside the sole that works as a cushion during walking and effectively reduces the pressure and pain associated with plantar fasciitis. The testers with high arches reported particularly high stability and support. The natural bounce provided by these shoes is an effective shock absorber, even during pavement and jogging. An additional feature is adaptability, as these shoes have room for extra orthotic inserts. As a bonus, these shoes are stylish, and many users appreciate the look and design. 

Issues: The level of support is so high that some people find it uncomfortable. 

KURU ATOM

Product specifications

Price: 160$ (buy KURU ATOM at kurufootwear.com)

Type: Slip on sneaker

Material: Rubber, mesh

Width: Medium

Heel drop: 8mm

Sizes: 6-11 (for women)

Welzo review

Overall rating: 4.75/ 5

Value: 5/ 5

Quality: 5/ 5

Comfort: 4.5/ 5

Fit: 4.5/ 5

User rating: 4.4/ 5 (based on 3,732 reviews at kurufootwear.com)

Pros: Lightweight, breathable, highly comforting

Cons: Not suitable for narrow feet

Why do we recommend it?: With extremely cushy heels and superb arch support, these shoes are extremely comforting for people with plantar fasciitis. They are breathable and lightweight, which makes them perfect for long-distance walking. Some testers appreciated the ease with which they could take these shoes on and off, as it saved time. The surprising stability of these shoes makes the transition between different surfaces very easy. 

Issues: There are better options for people who prefer a snug fit and those with narrow feet. 

Oofos OoAhh Slide Sandal

Product specifications

Price: £50 (buy Oofos OoAhh Slide Sandal at Amazon UK)

Type: Slides

Material: Foam

Width: Standard

Heel drop: Not listed

Sizes: 3-14 (for men), 5-16 (for women)

Welzo review

Overall rating:4.37/ 5

Value: 4/ 4

Quality: 4/ 5

Comfort: 5/ 5

Fit: 4.5/ 5

User review: 4.4/ 5 (based on 4,381 reviews at oofos.com)

Pros: Springy shoes, effective shock absorption, machine washable 

Why do we recommend it?: It is the best choice for someone who likes springy shoes for rapid forward propelling. The Oofos OoAhh Slide Sandal is highly effective at absorbing the shocks and relieving the stress on heels. As an additional bonus, these shoes are machine washable, making cleaning easier and the best choice for all-round activities.

Altra Paradigm 6

Product specifications

Price: £106.78 - £137.59 (Buy Altra Paradigm 6 at Amazon UK)

Type: Sneaker

Material: Mesh, rubber, foam

Width: Standard

Heel drop: 0mm

Sizes: 7-13 (men), 5.5-12 (women)

Welzo review

Overall rating: 4/ 5

Value: 4/ 5

Quality: 3.5/ 5

Comfort: 4.5/ 5

Fit: 4/ 5

User rating: 3.8/ 5 (based on 211 reviews at altrarunning.com)

Pros: Extremely secure during walking, seamless and smooth transition, excellent forward propulsion

Why do we recommend it?: The podiatrists approve these shoes to support the knees, ankles, heels and feet. The testers reported feeling very secure while walking on all types of terrain. One of the testers reported that it causes no pain despite 10 hours of continuously on feet. The curve on the sole allows a smooth and seamless transition, and the spring in the sole propels the feet forward. 

Issues: Some people found that getting used to these feet took some time, especially while driving. The feet felt restricted during the initial few days. However, these issues were resolved with time.

People Also Ask

Which Shoes are recommended by the doctors for plantar fasciitis?

The doctors recommend plantar fasciitis shoes based on the clinical picture and condition of the sole. The top recommendations by the Welzo Health professionals are Orthofeet Coral Stretch Knit Shoes, ABEO MXV Shift Metatarsal and WalkHero Wide Toe Shoes With Arch Support.

Which is the best shoe brand for plantar fasciitis in the UK? 

Various brands offer shoes that relieve pressure from plantar fascia and relieve the pain. The top brands backed by the experts are Joya, Oofos, Sockwell, Birkenstock and FitFlop. 

What treatment is recommended for plantar fasciitis? 

Heel and sole support through shoes are not substitutes for medical treatment. Physical therapy focusing on the stretching movement is recommended. Consult the physical therapist to learn and repeat various stretching exercises as instructed.

What is the quickest way to get rid of plantar fasciitis? 

Different treatments offer speedy recovery. These include stretching exercises, applying ice to the affected area and taking rest. 

What is the permanent cure for plantar fasciitis? 

It is not a chronic or permanent condition and responds well to the treatments. Most people recover within a month, and with proper care, it never returns. 

To learn more about foot care, problems and their treatment, visit the Welzo information page.

What are the different types of plantar fasciitis? 

Plantar fasciitis is of two types: acute and chronic. Acute plantar fasciitis occurs in response to sudden events like injuries. The chronic form is the classical form that occurs in response to continuous stress and strain and worsens over time. 

Is there any dietary deficiency that is responsible for plantar fasciitis? 

Plantar fasciitis and other musculoskeletal problems are often attributed to severe vitamin D deficiency. If bone disorders are suspected, go for a vitamin D level check and bone density testing. 

What could be the worst outcome of plantar fasciitis? 

Continuous tension and inflammation cause the tearing down of the plantar fascia and worsening pain. Continuous worsening of the conditions causes enlargement, rupture and disablement of the plantar fascia. 

If you are an athlete and have foot problems, we provide Athlete's Foot Treatment online. Visit the page for more information.

Bottom-line

Inflammation of plantar fascia is excruciating and restricts the regular movements. Various shoes, e.g., Orthofeet Coral Stretch Knit Shoes and ABEO MXV Shift Metatarsal etc., are designed to provide relief and comfort during plantar fasciitis. These shoes have medicated soles and provide comfort during walking and running.

Shoes are, however, not a substitute for medical care. If you are concerned about the health of your feet, Welzo is there to help you. Visit the Welzo Foot Care page for online consultation.