Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that causes pain in the heel or arch of the foot, often making walking or running uncomfortable. Selecting the right footwear could significantly impact symptom relief by reducing strain on the plantar fascia and improving overall comfort.
This guide highlights four of the best shoes for plantar fasciitis, chosen for their ability to support different types of pain. Whether dealing with compressive plantar fasciitis (pain when initiating heel contact) or stretch-type plantar fasciitis (pain during push-off), each shoe offers specific features to provide relief.
What to Consider When Choosing Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
- High Cushioning: Absorbs impact and reduces pressure on the plantar fascia.
- Heel Drop: A higher drop can reduce strain on the Achilles tendon, while a lower drop promotes even pressure distribution.
- Forefoot Rocker: Helps reduce strain on the arch and assists with smoother transitions during walking or running.
- Arch Support: Provides stability and can help control excessive pronation, which may contribute to plantar fasciitis pain.
- Wide Toe Box: Prevents excessive compression and allows natural foot movement.
1. Hoka Gaviota 5 – Maximum Cushioning & Stability
The Hoka Gaviota 5 is a max-cushion, max-stability shoe designed to provide substantial comfort and support. It features Hoka’s CMEVA cushioning, offering a plush and cloud-like feel, making it an excellent choice for those experiencing compressive plantar fasciitis.
Key Features:
- 6mm drop for a balanced heel-to-toe transition.
- H-Frame stability system for enhanced foot control.
- Soft and cushioned midsole to absorb impact forces.
- Widest toe box in the Hoka range, available in standard and wide fits.
The Gaviota 5 provides torsional stability, meaning it helps keep the foot centred and controls pronation moments. If a stability shoe isn’t preferable, the Hoka Bondi 8 offers a similar cushioning experience without the added stability features.
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2. Asics Gel-Kayano 31 – Support for Stretch-Type Plantar Fasciitis
The Asics Gel-Kayano 31 offers a unique balance of cushioning and stability, making it a strong option for those with stretch-type plantar fasciitis. The 4D Guidance System helps reduce strain on the plantar fascia by controlling pronation and providing medial arch support.
Key Features:
- 40mm rearfoot / 30mm forefoot stack height with a 10mm drop.
- Plush FF Blast+ cushioning for excellent shock absorption.
- Medial arch support with a built-in stability tab.
- Wide base and spacious toe box, available in wide and extra-wide versions.
This shoe is designed to reduce excessive arch tension, making it a great choice for both compressive and stretch-type plantar fasciitis. If additional support is required, the ASICS GT-2000 13 provides a more moderate stability option with similar comfort features.
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3. Brooks Glycerin Max – High Cushioning with Forefoot Rocker
For those prioritizing maximum cushioning and a smooth transition, the Brooks Glycerin Max is an excellent choice. It features DNA Tuned Nitrogen-Infused Cushioning, which provides plush comfort without excessive weight.
Key Features:
- 45mm rearfoot / 39mm forefoot stack with a 6mm drop.
- Aggressive forefoot rocker to assist with push-off and reduce arch strain.
- Soft but responsive midsole, balancing comfort and slight energy return.
- Stable design with a broad forefoot platform.
The forefoot rocker makes this shoe ideal for managing stretch-type plantar fasciitis, as it minimizes strain on the plantar fascia during push-off. The Glycerin Max is also a versatile choice for walking, standing all day, or recovery runs.
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4. Altra Via Olympus 2 – Zero-Drop Alternative
The Altra Via Olympus 2 differs from the other models listed due to its zero-drop platform, meaning there is no difference in height from the heel to the forefoot. This feature promotes even pressure distribution, which can be beneficial for compressive plantar fasciitis.
Key Features:
- Zero-drop design for a balanced foot position.
- Anatomical toe box allows natural foot movement.
- Firm midsole with minimal toe spring to support the arch.
- Heel bevel to reduce impact forces.
Important Considerations:
Transitioning from a high-drop shoe to a zero-drop shoe should be done gradually to avoid excessive strain on the Achilles tendon. If accustomed to high-drop shoes (10mm or more), it may be beneficial to first transition to a 6mm or 4mm drop before moving to zero drop.
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Final Considerations – Which Shoe is Most Suitable?
Each of these shoes is designed to offer relief for plantar fasciitis, but the best choice depends on individual symptoms:
- For max cushioning & mild stability → Asics Gel-Kayano 31
- For max cushioning & max stability → Hoka Gaviota 5
- For soft yet responsive cushioning → Brooks Glycerin Max
- For a zero-drop alternative → Altra Via Olympus 2
Purchasing through the links provided helps support the channel at no additional cost.
For more recommendations, visit the Shoes for Foot Conditions category.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individuals experiencing foot pain or mobility issues should seek assessment from a qualified healthcare professional before making footwear decisions.
Thank you for reading.
