Plantar fasciitis is a common problem among runners. As a sports medicine doctor, I treat many people with plantar fasciitis. I also work extensively with runners. This was especially true when I was in Hawaii working with the Ironman Marathon. These hardcore athletes taught me a lot about the best types of running shoes to minimize foot and heel pain.
In addition to being a Physician, I’m also a plantar fasciitis sufferer, so I’m happy to share some of the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis that I’ve found.
I really hope you find the right running shoe for you.
I started this website so I’d have a place to refer patients when they’re looking for certain products to help with pain. If you know me, you’ll know I often have Amazon open in my office, trying to help patients find exactly the right shoes to meet their needs. I hope this list will make the whole process more convenient for my patients!
I’m an Amazon Associate, so if you buy anything through the links I’ve given, it’ll go to help support the site and the causes we support. I’ve included shoes from all of these brands in my recommendation list below. I’ll start with my top five recommendations for women’s shoes and then move on to my top picks for men.
Best Women’s Running Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
Here are my top recommendations for women’s running shoes for plantar fasciitis. Women tend to have smaller, narrower feet than men do. Because of the differences in foot shape and size, women usually need more cushioning at the front of the shoe. Women also tend to be lighter than men so a good pair of women’s running shoes should feature light, bouncy cushioning. If you are not looking for running shoes, check out this list of shoes for plantar fasciitis.
ASICS Women’s Gel-Kayano Running Shoe
These running shoes are a bit pricey, but they are very popular among plantar fasciitis sufferers. I personally own and use these Asics Gel Kayano shoes.
Key Features
- Dynamic DuoMax support system for stability and support
- Supportive heel counter and clutching system for added support
- Rearfoot GEL cushioning system absorbs shock
- FluidRide cushioned midsole for added bounce
What People Love (Pro’s)
- Breathable mesh material keeps feet cool
- Good support and cushioning and support
- Comfortable for running and jogging
- Custom orthotic inserts fit nicely inside
What People Hate (Con’s)
- Not enough padding in the forefoot for some people
- Some durability and quality issues
- Narrow toe box can be uncomfortable for wide feet or toe issues
- Not always true to size
Brooks Ghost 10 Women’s Running Shoes
These shoes stylish shoes come in a variety of fun colors and are very popular with runners. However, they can be a bit bulky for some runners.
Key Features
- All mesh upper for breathability and moisture management
- Full-length S-257 Cushsole midsole compound increases comfort and flexibility
- Improved U-Groove encourages the heel to find its natural motion path
- Universal Contoured Platform
- Removable Engage footbed
What People Love
- Works well with custom insoles
- Roomier toe box than many other shoes
- Come in half-sizes for larger sizes, which is good for a perfect fit
- The shoes feel comfortable straight out of the box
What People Hate
- Somewhat bulky for some people
- Not always enough support and comfort for the ball of the foot
- Can wear out quickly
- Sit high in the back and can cause blisters for some
ASICS Women’s Gel-Kahana 8 Trail Runner
These shoes are great for trail running. They have good arch support, which might not be comfortable for people with high arches.
- Rearfoot GEL Cushioning System: Attenuates shock during impact phase and allows for a smooth transition to midstance.
- SpEVA Midsole: Material Improves bounce-back characteristics and decreases midsole breakdown.
- DuoMax Support System: A dual-density midsole system positioned to enhance support and stability.
- Trusstic System: Reduces the weight of the sole unit while retaining the structural integrity of the shoe.
- Trail Specific Outsole: Reversed lugs provide uphill and downhill traction on all types of terrain.
Key Features
- Rearfoot GEL cushioning minimizes shock on impact
- SpEVA Midsolve material improves bounce-back and decreases midsole breakdown
- DuoMax Support System enhances support and stability
- Trail Specific Outsole provides good all-terrain uphill and downhill traction
What People Love
- There’s a roomy toe box in this shoe, which is great if you have toe issues
- Comfortable and supportive for daily wear
- You can replace the removable insole with custom orthotics
- Good arch support
What People Hate
- Hard and not very flexible compared to other shoes
- For some runners, the heel can hit awkwardly
- Very defined arch support, which can be uncomfortable for people with high arches
- Shoes not always true to size and often run small
HOKA ONE ONE Women’s Clifton Running Shoe
Let me start out by saying that I own a pair of HOKA ONE ONE’s and I love them. These shoes are great for running and walking shorter distances. I also wear my HOKA ONE shoes when I know I’ll be on my feet all day – like at Disney with my kids. However, they might not be the best choice if you have flat feet.
Key Shoe Features
- Synthetic and mesh uppers for lightweight, breathable shoes
- Wider fitting forefront for enhanced comfort
- Ultra-lightweight, seamless SpeedFrame construction to help reduce foot irritation
- Breathable, comfortable in-sole fabric lining
What People Love
- Roomy toe area is comfortable and good for toe issues
- True to size
- Removable insoles can be easily replaced with custom orthotics
- Comfortable and supportive for plantar fasciitis sufferers
- Responsive cushioning
- Great running or walking shoe
What People Hate
- Irritating and can cause blisters on some runners
- Stiff and can take a while to break in
- Uncomfortable fit for some people with flat feet
- Not enough cushioning for some people
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Arishi
Key Features
- Lightweight, foam midsole for cushioned ride.
- A Hypoknit upper designed for support and durability
- Ultra Heel design that hugs the back of the foot
- Ortholite sockliner is breathable and lightweight
Best Men’s Running Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
Now here are my recommendations for plantar fasciitis running shoes for men. It’s important to find a shoe that is cushioned enough to support your weight and lessen the impact on your feet. Look for a pair of shoes with good support, adequate stability, and maximum comfort. Many men also need a shoe with a wide fit. You’ll see that I included some options for wide feet and large toes. If you check out the shoes below and still can’t find one, check out this list of shoes for plantar fasciitis.
Brooks Men’s Ghost 13
These shoes may be a bit on the pricier side, but most people find them very comfortable. They also work well with custom orthotics. They are also pretty neutral in terms of style. Many running shoes are colorful and bold, these ones blend in a bit more.
Key Features
- High energizing cushion for a smooth, painless step
- Medium to high arch support
- Engineered mesh for breathability and needed stretch
- Crash pad accommodates any foot landing and helps foot with smoother transitions
- Plush tongue and collar for all-over comfort
- Soft fabric lining for maximum comfort
What People Love (Pro’s)
- Removable insole can be swapped out for custom orthotics
- Comfortable for long runs
- Generous toe box
- Comes in a variety of colors and styles
What People Hate (Con’s)
- Some people found the soles to be somewhat brittle
- Narrow for some people with wider feet
- Some durability issues
- Sizes run small
New Balance Men’s 1080v8 Fresh Foam Running Shoe
This good-looking and comfortable shoe is a big hit among runners with wide feet
Key Features
- Shaft measures approximately low-top from the arch, which is good for easing heel pain
- Fresh Foam midsole for extra comfort
- Ortholite sockliner provides extra cushioning
- Removable insert can be swapped with custom orthotics
What People Love
- Lightweight
- Well padded, substantial cushioning
- A good choice for wider feet
- Easily accommodate prescription orthotics
What People Hate
- Causes rubbing and blisters for some people
- Some people had issues with the shoes wearing out too quickly
- For some runners, the shoe strings can dig into the tops of feet
- Can be too wide for people with narrow feet
- Black soles mark up carpets and flooring
Mizuno Wave Rider 21 Men’s Running Shoes
These cool shoes come in fun color options and are a popular choice among cross-country runners.
Key Features
- Fit in Motion upper for flexible support
- Soft anatomical sock liner for arch support
- Cloudwave shock absorption for a more comfortable run
- Triple Zone engineered mesh for breathability
- U4IC midsole foam provides response and durability
What People Love
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Comfortable with good cushioning
- Reflective logo is good for night running
- Bouncy and good at absorbing shock
- Removable insoles can be replaced with orthotics
What People Hate
- Poor stability
- Support and cushioning not as good in the ball of the foot
- Too soft in the heel counter for some runners
- Shoe and soles are a bit clunky
Saucony Men’s Redeemer ISO Road Running Shoe
This road running shoe is on the heavier side, but many people find the thick sole therapeutic.
Key Features
- PWRGRID+ Cushioning for enhanced impact protection and increased durability
- TPU pillars for enhanced support
- Foundation platform accommodates orthotics
What People Love
- Good motion control
- Comfortable and bouncy cushioning
- The therapeutic sole can be helpful for pain relief
- Cool design
What People Hate
- Narrow toe box compared to some other shoes
- Poor durability
- Shoes have a boxy appearance at the front
- Heavy and not very flexible
Asics Men’s GT 2000-7 Running Shoe
These running shoes are one of my favorite overall shoes for plantar fasciitis. I like them better than the popular Asics Gel Nimbus, and they’re a little bit cheaper, too. The deep heel support provides shock absorption to allay pain during your run. Overall, its a premium stability shoe.
Key Features
- A variety of bright designs for visibility while you run
- Maximum heel cushioning and arch support
- Ultralight with a breathable upper
- High abrasion rubber for great durability
What People Love (Pros)
- Excellent support in the heel box
- Even distribution of force from foot strike to toe-off
- Provides stability on all sides
- Strong, stable heel counter
What People Hate (Cons)
- Not as good as the older models
- Not enough toe protection
- Upper fabric may wear out after frequent use
- May be too tight for wide feet
Choosing The Best Running Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
If you have plantar fasciitis, you should be very picky about what shoes you buy. This is especially true for runners. If you’re a runner, you’re probably taking thousands upon thousands of steps each day in your running shoes. Quality matters.
The most important thing to remember that there is no such thing as “magic shoe” that will work for every last person. You want to make sure you get the right running shoes for your specific issues.
Here are some important factors to consider when buying a pair of running shoes:
Comfort and Support.
This is priority number one. A comfortable, supportive shoe can lessen the impact when your heel hits the ground. Good cushioning can really help with pain relief. Look for shoes with crash pads that improve cushioning.
Heel support.
Look for a shoe with good heel cushioning. This is especially important if you run with a heel strike. For runners struggling with plantar fasciitis, a deep heel cup can also protect the heel bone and help control pronation (inward roll of the foot) and supination (outward roll of the foot). As you probably already know, pronation and supination contribute to plantar fasciitis. In addition, you should look for a shoe with a higher heel to toe. A heel-to-toe drop redistributes weight and impact throughout your entire foot. This should help reduce plantar fasciitis pain.
Arch support.
A supportive arch supports the entire foot. It also reduces overpronation, which reduces tension on the plantar fascia. Some shoes are better for high arches, while others are better for low arches, or flat feet. Find a shoe that meets your particular arch needs.
Fit.
I really cannot stress this enough. It’s incredibly important to find a shoe that fits you properly. Everyone has different feet and different concerns. Fortunately, shoe companies know this and make shoes in all different sizes and shapes. There are any number of options available for wide feet, narrow feet, and toe issues. If you’re not happy with the fit of a shoe, try another size until you find a perfect match.
Flexibility.
Who wants to run in a hard, inflexible shoe? Not me. Look for a shoe with some bend in it. This will make for a more comfortable shoe. Flexibility also helps protect the feet and can help reduce pain.
Orthotics.
If you’re one of the many runners out there who require or prefer custom orthotic support, look for shoes with a removable insole. This will allow you to replace the pre-existing insole with your own for added comfort and support.
Conditions.
Different runners require different shoes. It’s as simple as that. Consider whether you’ll be using the shoes for walking or running. If you run or walk long distances, you’ll obviously have different needs than someone who travels short distances. If you prefer hitting the trails, you might need different shoes than someone who runs or walks on paved surfaces or a treadmill. Think about when and where you will use the shoes before you buy.
Once you have a basic idea of the type of shoe you’ll need, you can start to look at your options. There are so many great shoes out there, but here is a list of the most popular running shoe brands for plantar fasciitis.
Popular Running Shoe Brands
- Asics
- Brooks
- Hoka
- New Balance
- Mizuno
- Saucony
Common Runner Questions About Foot Pain and Shoes
As I mentioned earlier, patients ask me questions about plantar fasciitis all the time. Here are my answers to the some of the most commonly asked questions.
Does running make plantar fasciitis worse?
Can running shoes cause plantar fasciitis?
Does plantar fasciitis go away?
How long will it take for my plantar fasciitis to stop hurting?
Once my plantar fasciitis is gone, is it gone forever?
Can plantar fasciitis get worse?
Is it good to massage plantar fasciitis?
Can I walk for exercise if I have plantar fasciitis?
What is Runner’s Foot?
Why do the bottoms of my feet hurt from running?
Medically Reviewed Plantar Fasciitis Running Shoes
Running with plantar fasciitis can be painful. I know this firsthand. I also know that choosing the right running shoes is essential to control the pain and mechanisms which contribute to plantar fasciitis.
To recap you can see Sporty Doctor’s best running shoes for women.
Men’s Shoes
I hope this list has been helpful to you. Trust me when I say that it’s incredibly important to find the right running shoes. However, I know that it can be a huge task to read through the hundreds of online reviews.
