We Found the Best Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis After 4,000+ Tested Hours

When you have plantar fasciitis, it can be difficult to stay comfortable, especially if you’re active or on your feet all day. Many factors may cause this intense pain, but investing in walking shoes with cushioned heels, shock-absorbing materials, and built-in arch support can help give you some relief.

To choose the best walking shoes for plantar fasciitis, we consulted with experts, including podiatrists, an orthopedic surgeon, and a physical therapist, about which key features to look for in a high-quality pair. Then, we tested 25 expert-approved shoes, wearing them on flat and uneven terrain while walking, running, dancing, sightseeing, and standing for long periods of time. We evaluated each pair for its fit, stability, responsiveness, cushioning, comfort, quality, and value to find the top options on the market.

What to Know Before You Start Shopping

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the ligament that runs from the bottom of your heel bone to the ball of your foot becomes inflamed, resulting in heel pain and tightness. This condition is typically caused by overuse, a sudden increase in activity, or wearing unsupportive or worn-out shoes.

If you have plantar fasciitis, it’s best to avoid shoes with flat soles or poor arch support. This includes most styles of flip flops, sandals, and some dress shoes, says podiatrist Elizabeth Bass Daughtry, DPM, FACFAS.

Top Picks

Best Women’s Overall:

Orthofeet Coral Stretch Knit Shoe at Amazon $115

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Best Men's Overall:

Asics Gel-Venture 9 at Amazon

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Best for Stability:

ABEO MXV Shift Metatarsal at Amazon $135

Jump to Review

Best for High Arches:

SALE

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v14 at Amazon ~~$140~~ $90

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Best for Long Distances:

KURU ATOM Women's Slip-On Sneaker at Kurufootwear.com

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

WalkHero Wide Toe Box Shoes with Arch Support at Walkhero.com

Jump to Review

Best for Everyday Wear:

Altra Running Women’s Paradigm 7 at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Slip-On:

Dansko XP 2.0 Clogs at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Recovery Shoes:

SALE

Oofos OOmg Sport at Amazon ~~$140~~ $100

Jump to Review

Best Chelsea Boots:

SALE

Chaco Fields Chelsea Boot at Amazon ~~$150~~ $94

Jump to Review

Best Women’s Overall

Orthofeet Coral Stretch Knit Shoe

Credit: Orthofeet

$115 at Amazon View on Zappos View on Orthofeet.com

Pros

Comfortable, customizable support
APMA Seal of Acceptance
Breathable and lightweight enough to jog in

Cons

May be too wide for those with narrow feet

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 5-12 (medium, wide, extra-wide) Materials: Knit upper, fabric lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole Cushioning: Foam Drop: Not listed Closure: Lace-up APMA Seal of Acceptance: Yes Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best for people with wide feet who want a sleek, stylish sneaker for all-day wear.

Why We Love Them

Orthofeet's Coral Stretch Knit Shoe is our top women’s pick, thanks to its exceptional comfort and support that helps keep plantar fasciitis at bay. During testing, we loved how the extra cushioning underneath the heel felt, helping to combat our pain. We also like that the shoe comes with an adjustable arch insert and three different insoles, so we can customize the amount of support based on our needs. Plus, they’re breathable and lightweight enough to walk and jog in them comfortably.

This pair has earned the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, which means a group of podiatrists has determined that they promote good foot health. And it’s easy to see why—with a firm heel counter and durable rubber outsole, they’re very stable, supporting our feet and ankles during long strolls on cement sidewalks and when we’re on our feet all day. We also love that they come in various attractive colors and three widths, so you can get a more customized fit.

Potential Flaws

These sneakers are available in medium, wide, and extra-wide widths, making them ideal for people with wide feet or bunions who need extra room. However, they could be too roomy for people with narrow feet.

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Most Valuable Insight

“I put them on for the first time and could automatically feel the comfort and support. They’re best for walking in or when you’re on your feet for a long period of time. After wearing the shoes and taking them off, I didn’t have the pain in my heel like I typically do when I wear other shoes. I would truly recommend these shoes for anyone who wants comfort as well as a little style." —Gabrielle R., Verywell Fit product tester

Orthofeet Women's Coral Stretch Knit Shoes with Orthofeet insoles and orthotics on carpet — These sneakers come with insoles and other accessories to help you get the right fit.
Verywell Fit

Best Men's Overall

Asics Gel-Venture 9

Credit: Asics

View on Amazon

$80

$60 at Zappos View on Dicks Sporting Goods

Pros

Deep heel cup provides a locked-in feel
Springy cushioning propels the wearer forward
Reliable traction on various even and uneven terrains

Cons

Not designed for over- or underpronators

Key Specs

Sizes: Men’s 7-15 (medium, wide, extra-wide), Women’s 5-12 (medium, wide) Materials: Mesh upper, foam and gel midsole, rubber outsole Cushioning: Foam, gel Drop: Men’s 10 millimeters, Women’s 10 millimeters Closure: Lace-up APMA Seal of Acceptance: No Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best for people with neutral arches who want a springy, breathable walking shoe that can easily handle uneven terrains.

Why We Love Them

Asics’ Gel-Venture 9 Running Shoe is a solid choice for relieving plantar fasciitis symptoms and protecting against future flare-ups. With a comfy, secure fit, firm arch, and springy midsole, these sneakers kept our feet supported and pain-free no matter what surface we strolled on. During our tests, this shoe’s grippy rubber outsole offered reliable traction as we walked at least one mile daily, switching between concrete, grass, and crushed granite surfaces.

We also love that it has all the same durable, high-quality features and materials that we’d expect to find in a pricier shoe, making it an excellent value. The combination of foam and gel cushioning in the front and rear absorbed shock well and propelled us forward. We also love how the deep heel cup hugs our foot for a locked-in feel without ever slipping. Plus, the breathable mesh upper kept our feet feeling cool and dry.

Also available in women's sizes at Amazon and Zappos.

Potential Flaws

This shoe is ideal for people with a neutral stride. If you over- or underpronate, you may need a shoe with more support.

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Most Valuable Insight

“These are some of the most form-fitting, comfortable shoes I have owned. They’re much better than most of the shoes I have worn in the past, especially with how supportive the heel cup is. These shoes have now become my go-to walking shoes." —Matt H., Verywell Fit product tester

The Gel-Venture 9 has a breathable mesh upper and comes in lots of colorways. Credit: Verywell Fit
The Asics Gel-Venture 9 features foam and gel cushioning in both the front and rear areas. Credit: Verywell Fit

Best for Stability

ABEO MXV Shift Metatarsal

Credit: ABEO Footwear

$135 at Amazon $135 at Nordstrom View on Abeofootwear.com

Pros

Wide toe box gives toes plenty of space
Excellent shock absorption
Deep heel cup keeps feet comfortably in place without causing blisters

Cons

May feel stiff at first

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 5-11 (medium, wide) Materials: Knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole Cushioning: Foam Drop: Not listed Closure: Lace-up APMA Seal of Acceptance: No Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best for people with flat feet who want a stable, supportive sneaker, especially ideal for knee pain.

Why We Love Them

For those who need extra stability, we recommend ABEO’s MXV Shift Metatarsal sneakers. During testing, we found they offered the perfect balance of support and cushioning with a responsive, springy feel. We were impressed with the shoe’s consistent shock absorption, which kept our plantar fasciitis symptoms and knee pain at bay.

After walking in them all day on grass, concrete, and hardwood floors and wearing them for an hour-long dance class, our feet and ankles felt very supported, and we didn’t notice any discomfort. We loved that the deep heel cup gently hugged our rearfoot in place without causing irritation or blisters. Plus, the wide toe box kept our toes from feeling cramped.

Potential Flaws

When we first put them on, the shoes felt a bit stiff. But after walking around in them for 30 minutes, the initial stiffness disappeared, and they felt ultra-comfortable.

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Most Valuable Insight

“These shoes fit perfectly when I first put them on. They're extremely light and comfy, and they hold my heel in place without causing blisters. I experienced complete stability—so much so that I wore these shoes to dance class, and they were still super comfortable, even after an hour of all-out dance choreography.” —Cecilia D., Verywell Fit product tester

The ABEO MXV Shift Metatarsal kept plantar fasciitis symptoms and knee pain at bay during testing. Credit: Verywell Fit
The MXV Shift Metatarsal may feel stiff initially but becomes ultra-comfortable after 30 minutes. Credit: Verywell Fit

Best for High Arches

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v14

Credit: Dick's Sporting Goods

$140

$90 at Amazon

$140

$123 at Zappos View on Dicks Sporting Goods

Pros

Lightweight and well-cushioned
Durable
Great arch support and shock absorption

Cons

Narrow width only available in certain colors

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 5-12 (narrow, medium, wide, extra-wide), Men’s 7-16 (narrow, medium, wide, extra-wide) Materials: Textile and synthetic upper, textile insole, foam midsole, rubber outsole Cushioning: Foam Drop: Women’s 8 millimeters, Men’s 8 millimeters Closure: Lace-up APMA Seal of Acceptance: Yes Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who They’re For

Best for walkers with high arches who need a supportive, well-cushioned shoe.

Why We Love Them

If you have high arches and need a supportive, durable shoe to help manage symptoms of plantar fasciitis, New Balance's Fresh Foam X 880v14 Sneaker is our top pick. When testing this shoe, we frequently walked and ran on concrete and grass and were impressed with its stellar arch support and cushioning. The shoe absorbs shock extremely well, which helps take some pressure off our forefeet.

Our feet and ankles felt well-supported and stayed pain-free, even when we were on our feet all day long. The wide heel also helps with balance and stability, while the fit is roomy enough to accommodate insoles or orthotics, if necessary. We also love that these APMA-approved sneakers are lightweight and come in four widths.

Also available in men's sizes at Amazon and Zappos.

Potential Flaws

We appreciate that this shoe comes in multiple widths, but only a few color options are available in the narrow width.

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Most Valuable Insight

“The first time I put these shoes on, it felt like they were specifically designed for my feet. These shoes do an amazing job of supporting my high arches and cradling my foot.” —Mary A., Verywell Fit product tester

The Fresh Foam X 880v14 kept feet and ankles well-supported and pain-free during all-day testing. Credit: Verywell Fit
This New Balance shoe absorbs shock extremely well, taking pressure off the forefeet during walks. Credit: Verywell Fit
This New Balance shoe has a wide heel that helps with balance and stability during extended wear. Credit: Verywell Fit

Best for Long Distances

KURU ATOM Women's Slip-On Sneaker

Credit: KURU

View on Kurufootwear.com

Pros

Excellent arch support helps relieve foot pressure
Ample, responsive cushioning
Convenient slip-on style

Cons

May cause blisters at first
Only available in one width

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 6-11, Men’s 7-13 Materials: Fabric upper, rubber outsole Cushioning: Not listed Drop: Women’s 8 millimeters, Men’s 8 millimeters Closure: Slip-on APMA Seal of Acceptance: No Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5

Who They’re For

Best for walkers who need a supportive, comfortable shoe for long walks and appreciate the convenience of a slip-on sneaker.

Why We Love Them

If you enjoy going for long walks, Kuru's Atom Slip-On Sneaker is our recommendation to keep your plantar fasciitis symptoms at bay. During testing, we found that the shoe’s generous arch support effectively relieves pressure in all the right places. After a six-mile walk over concrete, asphalt, and through a field, we were pleasantly surprised that our feet stayed completely pain-free.

This lightweight shoe’s midsole offers excellent comfort and protection in the heel area, making us feel like we’re walking on air. We love that the ample cushioning is plush but responsive and doesn’t feel heavy or bulky. Plus, the heel pull tabs make them easy to slip on and off.

Also available in men's sizes at Kuru.

Potential Flaws

When we first started wearing these sneakers, we noticed a few blisters on our heels. However, we quickly broke them in and loved how comfy they felt.
Unlike other shoes on our list, this pair only comes in one width, so it may not be a good option for those with narrow or wide feet.

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Most Valuable Insight

“I would definitely recommend these as walking shoes to anyone with plantar fasciitis or other foot problems since they’re supportive and comfortable while still being lightweight and breathable.” —Grace K., Verywell Fit product tester

The KURU ATOM has heel pull tabs that make the shoes easy to slip on and off quickly. Credit: Verywell Fit
The KURU ATOM features generous arch support that effectively relieves pressure in key areas. Credit: Verywell Fit

Best Budget

WalkHero Wide Toe Box Shoes with Arch Support

WalkHero Men's Wide Toe Box Shoes with Arch Support

Credit: Walk Hero

View on Walkhero.com

Pros

Elevated heel takes pressure off of the back of the foot
Excellent traction, even on slippery surfaces
Great padded arch support

Cons

Limited colors and widths

Key Specs

Sizes: Men’s 8-13, Women’s 6-12 Materials: Leather and air mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole Cushioning: Foam Drop: Men’s 8 millimeters, Women’s 8 millimeters Closure: Lace-up APMA Seal of Acceptance: No Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best for those who want a budget-friendly walking shoe for long walks and extended daily wear, especially if you have knee pain in addition to plantar fasciitis.

Why We Love Them

WalkHero’s Arch Support Wide Toe Box Shoes are a solid, budget-friendly option that is comfortable and supportive for walking and all-day wear. We typically are on our feet most of the day and walk around 45 minutes daily on various surfaces, including grass and concrete. We love that the shoe’s slightly elevated heel takes the pressure off the back of our foot, helping to alleviate plantar fasciitis-related pain. We were also impressed with the padded arch support, which delivers a soothing massage-like feel with each step.

With a durable, grippy rubber outsole, these sneakers feel stable and sturdy, even when walking on slippery surfaces during rainy days. The well-cushioned foam midsole is soft and responsive, gently propelling us forward with each stride. We also noticed how much better our ankles and knees felt after wearing them, allowing us to walk longer and farther.

Also available in women's sizes at WalkHero.

Potential Flaws

These shoes only come in one width and a few color options, which may not be ideal for some.

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Most Valuable Insight

“The shoes felt extremely comfortable the first time I put them on. I didn’t even have to break them in. They definitely soothe the pain I experience from plantar fascitis. I hadn’t noticed how severe I had it until I used these shoes and realized how I should feel when walking.” —Mike N., Verywell Fit product tester

Closeup of feet wearing a pair of WalkHero Men's Wide Toe Box Shoes with Arch Support on wood floor — WalkHero shoes offer comfortable stability with great traction.
Verywell Fit

Best for Everyday Wear

Altra Running Women’s Paradigm 7

Credit: REI

View on Amazon

$170

$102 at Zappos

$170

$127 at REI

Pros

Very stable on uneven terrain
Comfy padded tongue and collar
Lightweight and breathable

Cons

Pricier than other options

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 5.5-12 (medium, wide), Men’s 7-15 (medium, wide) Materials: Textile and synthetic upper, textile insole, foam midsole, rubber outsole Cushioning: Foam Drop: Women’s 0 millimeters, Men’s 0 millimeters Closure: Lace-up APMA Seal of Acceptance: Yes Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who They’re For

Best for walkers who want a supportive, well-cushioned sneaker that’s also versatile for running and everyday wear.

Why We Love Them

If you spend a lot of time on your feet, we recommend Altra's Paradigm 7 Shoe for its plush comfort and exceptional support. When testing an earlier version of this shoe, it kept us very stable and secure when walking on all types of terrain, including bumpy pavement, gravel, grass, and uneven city sidewalks. We especially felt the impact protection in the heel area and also appreciated the generously padded tongue and collar—which enhanced our overall comfort.

After wearing and walking in the shoes for 10 hours straight, our feet, heels, ankles, and knees felt incredibly supported and stayed pain-free. This APMA-approved shoe delivers the perfect combination of a wide toe box and a narrow heel for a secure, comfortable fit. We also love the lightweight mesh upper, which is super breathable and keeps our feet feeling fresh and dry all day.

Also available in men's sizes at Altra and REI.

Potential Flaws

This walking shoe is one of the pricier pairs on our list, but we think they’re worth the investment for a high-quality, high-performance shoe.

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Most Valuable Insight

“These shoes are 110 percent better than any other shoe I’ve worn in my life. Even through long periods of wear, I felt no plantar fasciitis pain. I would without a question recommend these to anyone with plantar fasciitis.” —Sierra E., Verywell Fit product tester

Best Slip-On

Dansko XP 2.0 Clogs

Credit: Dansko

View on Amazon $170 at Zappos

$165

$165 at Nordstrom

Pros

Sturdy and supportive
Excellent shock absorption
Slip-resistant rubber outsole

Cons

May run large
Pricier than other options

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 4.5-13 (medium, wide), Men’s 8.5-14 Materials: Leather upper, foam midsole, polyurethane footbed, rubber outsole Cushioning: Foam Drop: Not listed Closure: Slip-on APMA Seal of Acceptance: Yes Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best if you want a supportive slip-on shoe for everyday wear.

Why We Love Them

Dansko’s XP 2.0 Clogs offer the convenience of a slip-on shoe without sacrificing quality, support, or comfort. During testing, we found that the cushioning effectively supported and cradled our feet, especially in the heel area. We had never worn a clog-style shoe before and were pleasantly surprised at how easy they were to walk in.

The shoes' solid shock absorption, especially in the heel, helped keep us pain-free as we walked up to three miles daily. We were also impressed with how the clogs felt firm, supportive, and sturdy—yet extremely comfortable. Plus, this APMA-approved shoe features a slip-resistant rubber outsole that’s ideal for walking on slick surfaces.

Also available in men's sizes at Amazon.

Potential Flaws

We noticed that these shoes tend to run large, so you may want to order one size down from your usual.
This shoe is one of the pricier options on our list. But we’d happily pay full price for them, given how comfortable and sturdy they are.

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Most Valuable Insight

“These shoes are very soothing, and I would definitely recommend them to someone who has plantar fasciitis. Now I know why nurses, doctors, and chefs wear them!” —Rose C., Verywell Fit product tester

Feet wearing Dansko XP 2.0 Clogs on a tile surface — The Dansko XP 2.0 features a slip-resistant rubber outsole ideal for walking on slick surfaces.
Verywell Fit

Best Recovery Shoes

Oofos OOmg Sport

Credit: OOFOS

$140

$100 at Amazon $140 at Zappos View on Oofos.com

Pros

Comfy, sock-like fit
Plush cushioning for all-day wear
Machine-washable

Cons

Not as breathable as other options
May run small

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 5-11, Men’s 8-14 Materials: Fabric upper, foam midsole Cushioning: Foam Drop: Not listed Closure: Slip-on APMA Seal of Acceptance: Yes Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who They’re For

Best for recovery days after tough workouts or long-distance walks.

Why We Love Them

With a comfy, supportive design that cradles our arches and heels, OOFOS' OOmg Sport Low Shoe is an ideal choice for post-workout recovery. After we slipped them on, we felt instant and continuous relief from plantar fasciitis and back pain. This APMA-approved shoe features thick, plush cushioning throughout the arch and heel—relieving pressure right where you need it most.

Even after wearing them for a full day at the office, the shoes still felt springy and supportive as we walked. During testing, we were also pleased that the four-way stretch material and smooth lining didn't cause any blisters or other irritation, even when wearing them without socks. And unlike other slip-ons, they're not flimsy and felt very stable as we walked on concrete, hardwood, and carpeted flooring. Plus, we love that they’re machine-washable for easy care.

Also available in men's sizes at Amazon and Oofos.

Potential Flaws

We found that our feet got very sweaty in these shoes, and we thought they could be more breathable or ventilated. However, we like that you can toss them in the washing machine and that the foam midsole doesn’t hold onto odors.
These shoes may run small—we recommend ordering a half size up from your usual.

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Most Valuable Insight

"The slip-on nature of the shoe is incredibly convenient, particularly during warmer weather months when you don't want to wear socks. These are as easy to put on as a pair of sandals but more secure and supportive. My feet feel adequately supported, and my plantar fascitis symptoms are alleviated when wearing these shoes.” —Allison V., Verywell Fit product tester

The OOmg Sport provided instant and continuous relief from plantar fasciitis and back pain. Credit: Verywell Fit
These OOFOS shoes are machine-washable for easy care and don't hold onto odors. Credit: Verywell Fit

Best Chelsea Boots

Chaco Fields Chelsea Boot

Chaco Women's Fields Chelsea Waterproof Boot

Credit: Amazon

$150

$94 at Amazon

$160

$133 at Zappos View on Campsaver.com

Pros

Waterproof and stylish
Deep lugs provide great traction
Contoured support for all-day wear

Cons

Heavy
Pricier than other options

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 6-11, Men’s 7-14 Materials: Leather upper, polyurethane footbed, rubber outsole Cushioning: Foam Drop: Not listed Closure: Slip-on APMA Seal of Acceptance: Yes Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They’re For

Best for those who need extra support in a comfortable boot, especially for walking in the rain, snow, or sleet.

Why We Love Them

Walking in cold, wet weather requires a supportive, protective boot, and our top pick is Chaco's Fields Chelsea Waterproof Boot. During testing, we were impressed with its contoured comfort and high, firm arch support, which stood up easily to a day of sightseeing where we walked nearly 7,000 steps. On a day we felt a flare-up, we wore them to work and were surprised not to feel heel pain, even at the end of the day when our feet often ache.

With rubber outsoles, waterproofing, and deep treads, the boots offer reliable traction and protection in bad conditions. The thick upper is a little stretchy, providing a comfortable, secure fit and making it easy (along with a helpful pull tab) to slip these boots on and off. We also like that this APMA-approved boot is stylish and versatile for casual or office attire.

Also available in men's sizes at Amazon and Chaco.

Potential Flaws

Since they’re designed to be durable and protective for bad weather, these boots are heavier than other shoes we tested. However, we still found them comfortable to walk in for long periods of time.
This pair is pricier than others on our list, although we think they’re a good investment for a high-quality, waterproof boot.

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Most Valuable Insight

“I wore them for three days straight to work, and at the end of the day, I didn’t have the heel pain I normally have. I wore them on vacation as well for an entire day and at night to a concert and was really surprised at how good my feet still felt at the end of the day. The heel pull-up strap is very convenient since these are a slide-on boot with no zippers!” —Diana W., Verywell Fit product tester

While a bit heavy, the Chaco Fields Chelsea Boot remains comfortable for long periods of wear. Credit: Verywell Fit
Chaco's Fields Chelsea Boot offers waterproofing and deep treads for reliable bad-weather traction. Credit: Verywell Fit

Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis We Also Tested

We tested 25 pairs of walking shoes for plantar fasciitis, but only 12 pairs earned a spot on our final list of recommendations. While we liked certain features of these other shoes we tested, they ultimately didn’t meet our rigorous testing requirements.

ABEO's MXV Cruise Sneaker offers excellent arch support, reliable shock absorption, and a roomy toe box, but the top of the shoe dug into our ankles uncomfortably.
We think Saucony’s Omni Walker 3 is a high-quality shoe that’s supportive of people who overpronate (when feet roll too far inward with movement). However, we didn't like that they felt bulky and not responsive enough.
We love the lightweight, comfortable design of Noat's Tama Sneaker—but it was lacking in cushioning and we found that our heel slid in and out of the shoe a lot during testing.
With a wide toe box and mild rocker design, WalkHero’s Slip On Canvas Loafers are very comfortable, but we wish they had more heel support.

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What to Look for When Shopping for Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

Fit: Make sure the shoes fit properly and feel comfortable from the first wear. Don’t assume that you’ll break in shoes that don’t feel quite right, since this often leads to blisters and altered walking patterns, says physical therapist Christynne Helfrich PT, DPT, OCS. For a more accurate fit, she recommends trying on shoes at the end of the day, as your feet will have swollen throughout the day.
Cushioning: Wearing walking shoes with excellent cushioning and shock absorption can help reduce pain from plantar fasciitis and prevent future flare-ups. It’s especially important to make sure there’s plenty of cushioning in the heel, says podiatrist Ami Sheth, DPM, FACFAS.
Arch Support: Wearing shoes with no or little arch support is a contributing factor to plantar fasciitis, especially for those with flat feet. However, wearing a shoe that’s overly supportive for your foot type can also limit the shoe’s flexibility, says Helfrich. Shoes with a neutral arch support work for most people, and those with flat feet or high arches can always add insoles for more support.
Materials: Look for shoes made with high-quality, durable materials, such as soft mesh or knit fabric for the upper and slip-resistant rubber for the outsole. If you plan to walk for long periods, opt for shoes with breathable uppers for good ventilation.
Drop: A shoe’s drop, or heel-to-toe drop, refers to the difference in height between the heel and forefoot. In walking shoes, the drop can be anywhere from zero to 12 millimeters and can affect your cadence, foot strike, and what part of your body takes on the load or impact of each step. Pairs with a higher heel drop are typically well-cushioned in the rearfoot, which is ideal for heel strikers and those with plantar fasciitis.

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How We Tested the Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

To find the best walking shoes for plantar fasciitis, editors with a confirmed plantar fasciitis diagnosis spent over 4,000 hours walking on grass, pavement, hardwood, crushed granite, and more in 25 pairs of shoes. When testing walking shoes for plantar fasciitis, we evaluate each pair based on the following key criteria.

Quality: When first try on the shoes, we examine the shoes and their construction. Do they look well-made, or do we notice any defects? Does the construction feel durable? We perform the bend and twist tests to assess the shoe’s quality and sturdiness. After many months of testing, we also assess how the shoes hold up, looking for any signs of excess wear and tear.
Fit: As we try each pair of shoes on, we assess the fit. Is there enough room in the toe box? Are they snug in the heel, or do our feet slide as we walk? We also check to see if the shoes run true to size, based on our observations and the manufacturer’s specifications.
Comfort: While walking in the shoes, we assess how comfortable they feel. Do we notice less pain in our heels? If the shoe has an elevated heel, do we feel any unwanted pressure on the balls of our feet? Do we notice any blisters, chafing, or other irritation?
Stability: As the testing period continues, we try walking on different terrains and note whether the shoes make it easier or more difficult. Do we feel stable and supported on our feet? Do the shoes offer enough shock absorption, especially in the heel area? And are they easy to walk in, promoting smooth transitions between steps?
Responsiveness: When we assess responsiveness, we check to see whether the shoe helps propel us forward with each step. We pay attention to whether the shoes feel springy, with solid bounce-back and good energy return. Towards the end of the testing period, we also check to see if the shoes’ cushioning is still as thick and springy as it was on day one or if there are signs of flattening out.
Cushioning: The best walking shoes for plantar fasciitis have thick, soft cushioning that supports and cradles your feet. As we walk in each pair, we note whether the insoles feel firm or squishy? Is there any additional cushioning in the heel, tongue, or toe box. We also pay attention to whether the shoes absorb impact in the heel while walking and assess how the shock absorption compares to others we’ve worn.
Value: To assign each shoe a value score, we wait to look at the price of each pair until the end of the testing period after we’ve scored it in every other key category. Walking shoes that receive a high value score are usually worth the same as or less than what we’d consider paying for them, based on their performance.

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Feet wearing Asics Gel Venture 7 Shoes on rocks and grass — The ASICS Gel-Venture 9 offered reliable traction during daily one-mile walks on varied surfaces.
Verywell Fit

Our Experts

We consulted experts at each stage of our research, testing, and reporting process. The following experts helped us understand which features to look for in supportive, comfortable walking shoes when you have plantar fasciitis. Although we choose products independently, input from experts influences our decisions.

Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, podiatric surgeon at NYC Foot and Ankle Center
Christynne Helfrich, PT, DPT, OCS, physical therapist at Hinge Health
Patrick J. Maloney, MD, FAAOS, orthopedic surgeon at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, Maryland
Ami Sheth, DPM, FACFAS, podiatrist at Bay Area Foot Care in Los Gatos, California
Elizabeth Bass Daughtry, DPM, FACFAS, board-certified podiatrist at the Foot & Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic
Mallory A. Kirkland, DPM, podiatrist at Upperline Health in Madison, Alabama

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Tips for Managing Plantar Fasciitis

In addition to wearing supportive, well-cushioned shoes, here are some simple steps to relieve pain from plantar fasciitis and reduce the risk of future occurrences.

Rest: Taking a break from the activities that aggravate the pain gives the plantar fascia time to heal. Try low-impact exercises such as cycling indoors or outdoors, swimming laps, or other activities that don’t put too much stress on your feet.
Ice: Applying ice to the bottom of your feet can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Try rolling your foot over a cold water bottle or applying an ice pack to the affected area. Apply ice for 10 to 15 minutes at a time, a few times daily, especially after activities that trigger pain.
Stretching: Moving and stretching can increase blood flow to the plantar fascia, which can promote healing and help reduce inflammation, says Helfrich. She recommends stretches for plantar fasciitis to help reduce tightness and warm up the calf and plantar fascia.
Night Splints: Although they take some getting used to when wearing them to sleep, night splints help stretch the plantar fascia and prevent tightening overnight. They’re also very effective at reducing morning pain and stiffness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do you walk comfortably with plantar fasciitis?

First, ensure you’re wearing a high-quality shoe with the right cushioning and arch support, like the ones we recommend here. Maloney suggests trying to maintain a normal heel-to-toe stride and walking evenly and balanced. To reduce impact, opt for surfaces such as dirt or grass rather than hard asphalt or concrete.

Can walking make plantar fasciitis worse?

Walking through plantar fasciitis pain can make the condition worse, especially if you’re wearing ill-fitting, unsupportive, or poorly cushioned footwear (like flip-flops, sandals, or minimalist shoes). In addition to checking out the plantar fasciitis-friendly footwear on our list, it's a good idea to talk to your doctor, who can give you a treatment plan that’s personalized to your pain and your needs.

How much does a pair of quality walking shoes for plantar fasciitis cost?

Walking may actually help loosen up the plantar fascia and muscles, which may relieve some pain, says Maloney. However, it can also worsen symptoms, especially if you walk in ill-fitting, unsupportive, or poorly cushioned footwear. Make sure you monitor whether the amount of walking has a positive or negative effect, and stretch your calves and feet after walking or any exercise.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, is a Verywell Fit writer with 20 years of experience writing and editing health and fitness content. As a certified personal trainer, running coach, and avid runner, she’s always researching and testing running shoes and other fitness gear. Although she has a history of plantar fasciitis, she has been able to prevent pesky flare-ups by wearing shoes with the right support and cushioning for her high-arched feet. In addition to her personal experience, she also relied on testing insights to create this list.

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4 Sources

Verywell Fit 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.

MedlinePlus. Heel pain.
MedlinePlus. Plantar fasciitis.
Sun X, Lam W-K, Zhang X, Wang J, Fu W. Systematic review of the role of footwear constructions in running biomechanics: implications for running-related injury and performance. J Sports Sci Med. 2020;19(1):20-37.
Poenaru D, Badoiu SC, Ionescu AM. Therapeutic considerations for patients with chronic plantar fasciitis (review). Med Int. 2021;1(4). doi:10.3892/mi.2021.9