Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that affects a substantial number of women, resulting in painful inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot. To alleviate the pain, it’s essential for women suffering from plantar fasciitis to wear shoes that provide adequate support and cushioning. It is in this context that walking shoes become crucial.
Walking shoes are specifically designed for people who spend a lot of time on their feet. They are comfortable, supportive, and provide excellent shock absorption. However, not all walking shoes are created equal, and not all of them are suitable for women with plantar fasciitis.
When looking for the best women’s walking shoes for plantar fasciitis, there are a few critical things to consider. The first is arch support. Women with plantar fasciitis need shoes that provide excellent arch support to reduce the strain on the plantar fascia. The second is cushioning. Shoes with good cushioning will absorb shock and reduce pressure on the foot. Finally, the shoes should have a flexible sole that allows for natural movement of the foot.
We spent hours researching and testing various women’s walking shoes to identify the ones that are best for plantar fasciitis. In this article, we will review the top five women’s walking shoes for plantar fasciitis that we found during our research. These shoes provide excellent arch support, cushioning, and flexibility, making them ideal for women with plantar fasciitis.
Best Women’s Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
We understand how important it is to find the right pair of walking shoes, especially if you’re dealing with plantar fasciitis. That’s why we’ve researched and tested various options to bring you our top picks for the best women’s walking shoes for plantar fasciitis. These shoes offer ample support, cushioning, and stability to help alleviate pain and discomfort while walking. Check out our list below to find your perfect pair.
1. Ryka Women’s, Devotion Plus 3 Walking Sneaker 9 Quiet Grey
We highly recommend the Ryka Women’s, Devotion Plus 3 Walking Sneaker for anyone suffering from plantar fasciitis. These sneakers are designed to provide excellent arch and heel support, making them perfect for long walks.
Pros
- The anatomical Precise-Return cushioned insole provides additional arch and heel support
- The EVA midsole with RE-ZORB active foam adds extra cushioning
- The breathable mesh and iridescent flex upper keeps your feet cool and comfortable
Cons
- The shoes run a tad small, so it’s best to order a half size up
- The tread wears down quickly if you walk on rough terrain
- The shoes are not suitable for people with wide feet
We’ve been wearing these sneakers for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with how comfortable they are. The anatomical Precise-Return cushioned insole provides excellent arch and heel support, which is essential for people with plantar fasciitis. The EVA midsole with RE-ZORB active foam adds extra cushioning, making these sneakers perfect for long walks.
The breathable mesh and iridescent flex upper keep your feet cool and comfortable, even on hot days. We appreciate that these sneakers come in a variety of colors, so you can choose the one that best suits your style.
While the shoes run a tad small, we found that ordering a half size up solved the problem. However, if you have wide feet, these shoes may not be the best choice for you.
Overall, we highly recommend the Ryka Women’s, Devotion Plus 3 Walking Sneaker for anyone suffering from plantar fasciitis. These sneakers provide excellent arch and heel support, are comfortable to wear, and come in a variety of colors.
2. Gravity Defyer Women’s Pain Relief Shoes
If you’re looking for a pair of women’s walking shoes that can help alleviate plantar fasciitis, then the Gravity Defyer Women’s Pain Relief Shoes are worth considering.
Pros
- The shoes come with arch support that can help alleviate foot and knee pain.
- They include a free orthotic that can help with heel pain.
- The shoes are made with a sturdy design that can help you walk more efficiently.
Cons
- The toe box is not as roomy as advertised.
- The shoes may not fit true to size.
- The laces are not very durable.
We recently tested out the Gravity Defyer Women’s Pain Relief Shoes and found that they are a great option for those suffering from plantar fasciitis. The arch support and free orthotic provide much-needed relief for foot and knee pain, while the sturdy design helps you walk more efficiently.
One potential issue with these shoes is that the toe box is not as roomy as advertised, so those with wider feet may need to size up or look for a different option. Additionally, some customers have reported that the shoes do not fit true to size, so it’s important to double-check the sizing chart before purchasing.
Another drawback of these shoes is that the laces are not very durable. Some customers have reported that the laces come undone frequently or break easily, which can be frustrating.
Overall, we would recommend the Gravity Defyer Women’s Pain Relief Shoes to anyone looking for a comfortable and supportive option for walking with plantar fasciitis. Just be sure to keep the potential drawbacks in mind before making your purchase.
3. New Balance Fresh Foam Roav V1 Running Shoe Sneaker
If you’re looking for a comfortable and supportive walking shoe, the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav V1 Running Shoe Sneaker is a great choice.
Pros
- The Fresh Foam cushioning provides a plush and comfortable feel while remaining lightweight.
- The NDurance technology makes the rubber outsole more durable, so you can wear these shoes for a long time.
- The Ultra Heel is designed to hug the back of your foot for a more supportive fit.
Cons
- These shoes may run a little small, so you may need to order a half size up.
- The back of the shoe is hard, which may cause some friction and discomfort.
- It may take some time to break in these shoes.
We’ve been wearing these shoes for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with the level of comfort and support they provide. The Fresh Foam cushioning is soft and plush, making it easy to walk for long periods without experiencing any discomfort. The NDurance technology also makes the rubber outsole more durable, so we’re confident that these shoes will last for a long time.
One thing to note is that these shoes may run a little small, so you may need to order a half size up. We also experienced some friction and discomfort at the back of the shoe, but this may be due to the hard material used in this area. However, we found that the shoes became more comfortable after a few wears.
Overall, we highly recommend the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav V1 Running Shoe Sneaker for anyone looking for a comfortable and supportive walking shoe. With its Fresh Foam cushioning, NDurance technology, and Ultra Heel design, these shoes are sure to provide a cloud-like ride.
4. HKR Women’s Walking Shoes
If you’re looking for a comfortable pair of walking shoes that provide arch support and are lightweight, the HKR Women’s Walking Shoes are a great choice.
Pros
- The shoes are made with a breathable knit upper that keeps your feet cool and dry.
- The non-slip rubber sole provides excellent traction on wet and slippery surfaces.
- The shoes are easy to clean and can be machine washed.
Cons
- The shoes can be a bit difficult to put on due to the sock-like top.
- Some customers have reported that the shoes run small, so you may need to order a half size up.
- The arch support may take some getting used to if you’re not used to wearing shoes with arch support.
We’ve been using these shoes for a few weeks now and we’re really happy with them. The knit upper is comfortable and breathable, which is great for long walks or hikes. The shoes are also lightweight, which makes them easy to wear for extended periods of time.
One thing to note is that the shoes can be a bit difficult to put on at first. The sock-like top can take some getting used to, but once you figure it out, it’s not a big deal. We also recommend ordering a half size up, as some customers have reported that the shoes run small.
The non-slip rubber sole is great for wet or slippery surfaces, which is perfect if you enjoy hiking or walking in nature. The arch support is also a nice feature, although it may take some getting used to if you’re not used to wearing shoes with arch support.
Overall, we highly recommend the HKR Women’s Walking Shoes for anyone looking for a comfortable and supportive pair of walking shoes.
5. ASICS Women’s Gel-Contend 7 Running Shoes
We highly recommend the ASICS Women’s Gel-Contend 7 Running Shoes for anyone looking for comfortable walking shoes for plantar fasciitis.
Pros
- The GEL in the heel area and the AmpliFoam midsole provide excellent cushioning at every step.
- The solid rubber outsole and reinforced toe ensure durability.
- The breathable athletic mesh keeps your foot cool for longer.
Cons
- The toe box runs extremely narrow, so it’s best to choose the wide option if you have an average foot or avoid this shoe if you have wide feet.
- The shoe runs small, so it’s recommended to order a half or whole size larger than usual.
- The flat insoles offer no arch support.
We’ve been using the ASICS Women’s Gel-Contend 7 Running Shoes for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with their comfort and support. The GEL in the heel area and the AmpliFoam midsole provide excellent cushioning, making them perfect for long walks or runs. The solid rubber outsole and reinforced toe ensure durability, so you won’t have to worry about replacing them anytime soon.
However, the toe box runs extremely narrow, so it’s best to choose the wide option if you have an average foot or avoid this shoe if you have wide feet. Additionally, the shoe runs small, so it’s recommended to order a half or whole size larger than usual. The flat insoles offer no arch support, which may be a dealbreaker for some.
Overall, the ASICS Women’s Gel-Contend 7 Running Shoes are a great choice for anyone looking for comfortable walking shoes for plantar fasciitis. They offer excellent cushioning, durability, and breathability, making them perfect for any activity.
6. Saucony Women’s Cohesion 13 Running Shoe
We highly recommend the Saucony Women’s Cohesion 13 Running Shoe for anyone with plantar fasciitis who is looking for a comfortable and stylish walking shoe.
Pros
- The versafoam cushioning technology provides excellent support for those with plantar fasciitis.
- The durable rubber outsole ensures that the shoe will last for a long time.
- The breathable upper adds to the overall comfort of the shoe.
Cons
- The outside cover of the shoe is thin, which may lead to durability issues.
- Some users have reported that the shoe feels less sturdy than other Saucony models.
- The sizing may be slightly off, so it is important to try them on before purchasing.
We have been using the Saucony Women’s Cohesion 13 Running Shoe for a few weeks now and have been impressed with its performance. The versafoam cushioning technology provides excellent support for our plantar fasciitis, and we have noticed a significant decrease in foot pain while wearing these shoes.
The durable rubber outsole has held up well, even after daily use, and we appreciate the added durability. The breathable upper also adds to the overall comfort of the shoe, making it a great choice for all-day wear.
However, we have noticed that the outside cover of the shoe is thin, which may lead to durability issues down the line. Additionally, some users have reported that the shoe feels less sturdy than other Saucony models, which may be a concern for those who are looking for a long-lasting shoe.
Overall, we highly recommend the Saucony Women’s Cohesion 13 Running Shoe for anyone with plantar fasciitis who is looking for a comfortable and stylish walking shoe. Just be sure to try them on before purchasing to ensure the proper fit.
7. Skechers Sport Women’s Inifinite Motion Sneaker
We highly recommend the Skechers Sport Women’s Inifinite Motion Sneaker for anyone looking for a comfortable and stylish walking shoe that provides excellent arch support.
Pros
- The slip-on design with bungee-laced front makes it easy to put on and take off.
- The athletic mesh knit upper provides breathability and flexibility.
- The cushioned Memory Foam insole provides excellent comfort and support, making it perfect for those with plantar fasciitis.
Cons
- The shoe may fit a bit small, so it’s recommended to order a half size up.
- The bungee laces may loosen over time and require readjustment.
- The shoe may not be suitable for those with severe foot problems.
The Skechers Sport Women’s Inifinite Motion Sneaker is perfect for those who want a shoe that looks good and feels great. The slip-on design with bungee-laced front makes it easy to put on and take off, while the athletic mesh knit upper provides breathability and flexibility. The cushioned Memory Foam insole provides excellent comfort and support, making it perfect for those with plantar fasciitis.
The shoe may fit a bit small, so it’s recommended to order a half size up. The bungee laces may loosen over time and require readjustment, but this is a minor inconvenience. The shoe may not be suitable for those with severe foot problems, but for most people, it’s an excellent choice.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a comfortable and stylish walking shoe that provides excellent arch support, we highly recommend the Skechers Sport Women’s Inifinite Motion Sneaker.
8. Vionic Women’s Walker Classic Comfortable Leisure Shoes
If you’re looking for a comfortable walking shoe that provides arch support for plantar fasciitis, the Vionic Women’s Walker Classic Comfortable Leisure Shoes might be a good option.
Pros
- The shoe features a three-zone comfort with an orthotic insole arch support, which can help alleviate plantar fasciitis pain.
- The leather material is durable and easy to clean.
- The shoes come in a variety of sizes, including wide options.
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the sizing runs large, so it might be a good idea to order a half size down.
- The shoes might not provide enough cushioning for those with very sensitive feet.
- The shoelace loop has been reported to break easily.
In our experience, the Vionic Women’s Walker Classic Comfortable Leisure Shoes provided adequate support for our plantar fasciitis pain. The shoe felt sturdy and well-made, and the leather material made it easy to clean. However, we did notice that the sizing ran a bit large, so it might be a good idea to order a half size down. Additionally, the shoes might not provide enough cushioning for those with very sensitive feet, so it’s important to keep that in mind.
Overall, we would recommend the Vionic Women’s Walker Classic Comfortable Leisure Shoes for those looking for a supportive walking shoe for plantar fasciitis. However, it’s important to keep in mind the sizing and cushioning limitations.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best walking shoes for plantar fasciitis, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:
Arch Support
Arch support is essential for people with plantar fasciitis. Shoes with good arch support help distribute weight evenly across the foot, reducing stress on the plantar fascia. Look for shoes with built-in arch support or shoes that have removable insoles that can be replaced with orthotics.
Cushioning
Cushioning is important for absorbing shock and reducing impact on the feet. Look for shoes with ample cushioning in the heel and forefoot to help reduce pain and discomfort.
Stability
Shoes with good stability help prevent overpronation, which can aggravate plantar fasciitis. Look for shoes with a firm midsole and a wide base to help keep your foot stable while walking.
Flexibility
Shoes that are too stiff can put additional stress on the plantar fascia. Look for shoes that are flexible enough to allow your foot to move naturally while walking.
Fit
Proper fit is crucial for people with plantar fasciitis. Look for shoes that fit snugly but not too tight, with enough room in the toe box to allow your toes to move freely.
In summary, when choosing the best walking shoes for plantar fasciitis, look for shoes with good arch support, ample cushioning, stability, flexibility, and a proper fit. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find a pair of shoes that will help reduce pain and discomfort while walking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some doctor recommended shoes for plantar fasciitis?
Doctors often recommend shoes with good arch support and cushioning for those with plantar fasciitis. Some popular brands that offer such shoes include Brooks, ASICS, New Balance, and Saucony.
Are Hoka shoes good for walking with plantar fasciitis?
Hoka shoes are known for their thick, cushioned soles that provide excellent shock absorption. This makes them a great option for those with plantar fasciitis who need extra support and cushioning while walking.
What is the best shoe for walking with plantar fasciitis?
The best shoe for walking with plantar fasciitis will vary from person to person depending on their specific needs and preferences. However, some popular options include the Brooks Addiction Walker, ASICS Gel-Nimbus, and New Balance 990v5.
What are the best slip-on shoes for plantar fasciitis?
Slip-on shoes with good arch support and cushioning can be a great choice for those with plantar fasciitis who need to easily slip their shoes on and off. Some popular options include the Vionic Gemma Mule Slipper, Skechers Go Walk Joy Slip-On, and Clarks Ashland Lane Q.
What are the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis?
Running shoes for plantar fasciitis should provide good arch support and cushioning to help absorb shock while running. Some popular options include the Brooks Ghost 13, ASICS Gel-Kayano 28, and New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v11.
What shoes do podiatrists recommend for plantar fasciitis?
Podiatrists often recommend shoes with good arch support and cushioning for those with plantar fasciitis. Some popular brands that offer such shoes include Brooks, ASICS, New Balance, and Saucony. They may also recommend custom orthotics to provide even more support and cushioning.
