Walking is one of the best physical activities for your health. It helps you build healthy bones, improve your balance, reduce the risks of cardiovascular diseases, and relieve stress and anxiety.
Walking also strengthens your muscles and reduces pain and inflammation. Due to injury and overuse, your feet become weak and painful. If not treated on time, it can lead to plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of the ligaments along the bottom of your feet. While there are many treatment options available for plantar fasciitis, one of the simple and most effective therapies is to walk daily.
The type of shoes you wear for walking can also have a good or bad impact on your feet. For instance, you don’t want to put a lot of pressure on your feet by wearing thin-soled or ultra-high heel shoes, as they can cause severe pain and discomfort. Before you invest in a pair of walking shoes for plantar fasciitis, make sure you pick the right one. Because the wrong type of walking shoes can worsen your condition.
Best Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
We’ll review and analyze each pair of walking shoes in detail and pick the best pair for plantar fasciitis that you should buy.
Quick Winner for Men
Can’t wait to read until the end? Here’s the winner for men.
Brooks Men’s Addiction Walker
After reviewing and analyzing different plantar fasciitis walking shoes on the market, we have concluded that Brooks Men’s Addiction Walker are the best walking shoes out there.
Quality: 4.9/5
Pricing: 4.8/5
Rating: 4.8/5
Quick Winner for Women
Can’t wait to read until the end? Here’s the winner for women.
Saucony Women’s ProGrid Integrity ST2
After reviewing and analyzing different plantar fasciitis walking shoes on the market, we have concluded that Saucony Women’s ProGrid Integrity ST2 are the best walking shoes out there.
Quality: 4.8/5
Pricing: 4.6/5
Rating: 4.7/5
Jump to read the reviews, instead? HERE
What are Walking Shoes?
Walking shoes are lightweight and sturdy footwear which support your arch, reduces midsole impact, and prevent injuries while walking. To ensure the right kind of walking shoes, look for the ones that are more flexible and supportive. Bear in mind that not all of them are necessarily intended for walking. Because your foot shape, size, and structure significantly affect the type of walking shoes you will wear.
Difference Between Walking Shoes and Running Shoes
Walking shoes are soft, comfortable, and have a relatively thin sole for better flexing. On the other hand, running shoes have high performance design, stiff soles, and extra durability for long runs that can’t be achieved with walking shoes. Running in walking shoes may cause discomfort, pain, and even injury because of the design and features they have. When choosing a pair, make sure you know its purpose.
Walking shoes should:
- Have less heel cushion
- Be flexible at the toe
- Feature relatively small heel
- Stabilize your foot to relieve pain
Do you Need Walking Shoes?
The answer may be probably yes. Why? Because you should walk if you want to strengthen your muscles, stay fit, reduce the risks of heart diseases, and improve balance.
Look for these things to help you walk more.
Walking a dog – Maybe your little pet needs some outing.
Exploring the city – If you like exploring new places on foot, get better walking shoes.
Race walking – An activity where you have to walk a long distance.
Going to work – If you go to work on foot, you may need shoes that provide comfort and stability.
Fun activities and visits – You may be out visiting a friend or shopping the grocery.
Wherever you go, you shouldn’t compromise on quality walking shoes.
How Do Walking Shoes Work?
Walking shoes are designed for comfort and stability, as the activity itself causes a mild impact on your foot.
Impact – When you hit the ground, walking shoes provide you enough support and comfort.
Stability – With a specific insole type, walking shoes stabilize your feet by giving them a firm grip.
Weight redistribution – Walking shoes redistribute your body weight in such a way as to reduce muscle strain and foot pain.
Benefits of Wearing Walking Shoes
Walking shoes are designed for walking. It means they support your feet, stabilize your walk, reduce heel pain, and keep you comfortable. If the shoes you’re wearing are not comfortable enough and are causing severe pain, it means either the shoes are not for walking, or they have bad quality.
Foot and arch support – Walking shoes with orthotic insoles support your arches by absorbing shock and increasing stability.
Protect ankle – Walking shoes have a cushioned collar called heel collar that protects your ankle from sore spots and blisters.
Improve ground grip – If the shoes have an outsole made of a certain material like rubber, it can help with traction and perform better with any ground condition
Pain and injury reduction – The right type of walking shoes actually helps reduce foot pain and fatigue caused by plantar fasciitis and other foot conditions.
Corns and calluses prevention – Friction and pressure on your feet may cause to develop thick, painful skins, which can be prevented by wearing walking shoes with a wide toe box area.
Things to Consider Before Buying Walking Shoes
Before you buy your favorite shoes and start walking in them, consider these tips to get something that actually works well.
Size:
Shoes come in different sizes and shapes. Even if you know your size, you may get it wrong because some brands may not actually stay true to their size. Before you get a pair, make sure you take care of the width of your foot. If your feet are too wide and you get shoes that are too narrow, it may cause painful blisters and red spots. Also, shoes that are too short or long may not help your feet. To avoid this, always read the sizing chart and compare it with your foot size. If you’re buying from a local store, try them and see if they fit perfectly. If not, ask for different sizes and widths until you get the right fit.
Foot Type:
While you may get the right size after careful consideration, make sure you also understand your foot type so you can get the kind of shoes that best support your feet. By foot type, we mean the kind of foot arch you have. Generally, there are three arch types:
High Arch – Also called cavus foot, such foot has a very high arch. Or in other words, its insole is hollow. When people with high arches walk or stand, the pressure is transferred to the ball and heel of the foot. To reduce that extra pressure on your foot, use shoes that have a padded cushion to take the load, and reduce any injury.
Low Arch – Also called as flat feet, low arched feet have arches that sit almost flat on the ground. Such people have a biomechanical imbalance in their feet and often have foot, heel, and arch pain. To reduce the chances of pain and injury, get a pair of plantar fasciitis shoes with straight last, which are designed for controlling motion.
Normal Arch – Also called as medium arch, such type of arch supports your body weight naturally. Choose walking shoes that have relatively stable midsole with the last of shoes between straight and semi-curved.
Activity:
If you live in a place where the walking course is steep, you may want to pick a pair with better grip and firm stability. On the other hand, shoes for relatively normal ground won’t need an extra level of traction because of the nature of the land. In that case, you only want to make the shoes as comfortable as possible.
Durability:
While you should swap your old, worn-out pair with new walking shoes, it’s also better to have your current shoes in a perfect condition. Low quality shoes may cause foot problems even before they wear out.
Budget:
While certain budget friendly walking shoes may reduce the pressure off your wallet, they may not always do so on your foot. Look at your budget and keep in mind that you get what you pay for. Certain old brands may have expensive walking shoes while mostly new have relatively cheap pairs in line. In the end, it all boils down to what you’re looking for in the allocated budget.
Warranty:
If you have a favorite pair on the market that you think will best fit your needs, check out their warranty. If they offer a 30-day trial, just pick up the pair and see if the shoes will be helpful for you in the coming months.
Top 8 Best Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
1. Brooks Men’s Addiction Walker
Quality: 4.9/5
Pricing: 4.8/5
Rating: 4.8/5
Brooks Men’s Addiction Walker shoes are designed specifically for frequent walkers. While many other shoes on the market claim to provide comfort while walking, Brooks Men’s shoes actually back up their claims—by using real facts and reviews from genuine buyers. Not only will you be able to control overpronation while walking, but your arches will also be supported because of the comfy cushion and durable sole of these shoes. As a result, you’ll see a significant reduction in pain and inflammation from plantar fasciitis.
Brooks Men’s shoes provide a 12mm heel-toe drop for supporting your gait while walking. The outsole is made of a rubber compound that gives you an extra grip and reduces the direct impact of your heel on the ground. The front is made of 100% full-grain leather, which is soft and durable. Customers who bought Brooks Men’s Addiction Walker said it helped them reduce foot pain and discomfort. They also recommended the shoes since it provided arch support and a tight grip.
Reduce pain and discomfort – People suffering from plantar fasciitis or other foot problems can benefit from Brooks Men’s Walker shoes since they help reduce pain and injury.
Style – While this shoe may be bulky for some people, it’s actually a better choice for many others who enjoy casual walks and daily work commute—as the shoes fit any occasion.
Durability – The outer sole is lined with quality rubber material that gives you an extra grip in extreme surface conditions. Also, the upper part is a full-grain leather for higher durability.
Pros:
✔️ Low arches support
✔️ Control overpronation
✔️ Sturdy, comfortable, and durable shoes
✔️ Reduce foot pain and discomfort
Cons:
❌ The design may not be everyone’s favorite
2. Saucony Women’s ProGrid Integrity ST2
Quality: 4.8/5
Pricing: 4.6/5
Rating: 4.7/5
If you’re a frequent walker and have found other shoes uncomfortable, Saucony Integrity ST2 can be a better replacement. Not only they help you make prolong walks easy and pain-free, but the comfortable rubber-made outsole lining and cushioned insole protect your feet from injuries and unstable gait.
Unlike many other bulky shoes, Saucony Integrity ST2 shoes are lightweight, durable, and sturdy. With padded tongue, heel support, and leather top, the shoes help reduce pain and injury while hiking and walking. Customers who bought Saucony Integrity ST2 reported a reduction in their foot pain and discomfort. Many also appreciated its quality design and stylish look.
Help relieve foot pain – The design features supportive heels, comfy insole, and sturdy outsole that help reduce pain and inflammation from plantar fasciitis.
Orthotic wear support – With various sizes to choose from, these shoes also accommodate orthotic inserts for better foot support.
Comfortable and adjustable – Unlike many other shoes, Saucony Integrity ST2 have a more flexible fit. In other words, they don’t require a break-in period and won’t cause blisters and irritation.
Pros:
✔️ Durable and supportive heels
✔️ Help frequent walkers reduce foot pain
✔️ Strong grip for walking on any surface type
Cons:
❌ May create a little, squeaky noise
3. Orthofeet Men’s Walking Shoes
Quality: 4.6/5
Pricing: 4.5/5
Rating: 4.7/5
Orthofeet Men Walking Shoes are specifically made to make your walks as easy and comfortable as possible. Its ergonomic sole and air cushion design provide extra relief and support while walking. The padded heels with air pockets reduce pressure on your foot and give you the stability to reduce pain from plantar fasciitis.
Orthofeet Men Shoes also help with the structural imbalance and alleviate pressure on sensitive and abnormal feet. With a wide toe box and an extra space for orthotic inserts, the shoe custom fit most people’s feet. Customers who tried these shoes felt comfortable and appreciated its ergonomic design.
Reduce pain and pressure – The shoes soothe pain and reduce pressure caused by flat feet, weak fascia ligament, and low arch.
Gel padding and insole – To reduce the chances of injury and pain while standing, walking and running, gel insoles provide stability and support to your arches.
Custom size and fit – With different width and length sizes to choose from, Orthofeet Men walking shoes offer great size and flexible fit.
Pros:
✔️ Orthotic design for feet support
✔️ Ergonomic sole for pain-free walking
✔️ Padded heel with air pocket for stability
Cons:
❌ May be pricey for many buyers
4. Gravity Defyer Women’s Shoes
Quality: 4.6/5
Pricing: 4.6/5
Rating: 4.4/5
Gravity Defyer features a comfy design on the inside with a wide toe box that helps with bunions and other toe discomforts. You can replace the insoles and insert orthotics to relieve foot pain and injuries. Its front rocker makes the shoes stiff and a little rounded for rocking effect, which helps with pain and discomfort due to plantar fasciitis.
With seven color options and different width and size ranges to pick from, Gravity Defyer comforts your feet without the need for a break-in period. Customers who tried Gravity Defyer Women’s shoes said it helped them reduce their heel and foot pain.
Relief from foot pain – Gravity Defyer has a front rocker sole and midfoot support, which lift pressure off your foot and offer extra stability while walking.
Orthotic design – The insole is comfortable for frequent walkers who need extra cushioning. But you can also replace it with custom orthotic inserts.
Durability and quality – They shoes are made of fabric and synthetic material with VersoShock patented spring technology, which helps reduce your impact on the ground.
Pros:
✔️ Supportive inside with wide toe box
✔️ Stabilizes foot and reduces the impact
✔️ Seamless interior to avoid blisters
Cons:
❌ Not many
5. Orthofeet Shreveport Men’s Shoes
Quality: 4.4/5
Pricing: 4.6/5
Rating: 4.5/5
Orthofeet Shreveport walking shoes have an innovative and comfortable design. As a frequent walker or someone with a foot problem, you’ll feel much better wearing them. Its biomechanical design stabilizes your foot, improves mobility, and protects your foot from direct impact on the ground.
They have a wide range of sizes for every type of foot with roomy inner space. Orthofeet Shreveport also comes with inner soles that fit different sizes. People who tried the shoe said it reduced their foot problem and provided extra comfort.
Quality and durability – Made of leather with high quality stitching, the pair makes a great case for a sturdy and stylish look.
Alleviate foot problem – If you’ve been struggling with plantar fasciitis, try these shoes for their orthotic design that helps rest your foot comfortably and reduce pain.
Ease and comfort – The gel padding provides your heel with a sleek, soft touch and makes your journey comfortable.
Pros:
✔️ Anatomical arch support
✔️ Soft and comfortable for everyday walk
✔️ Reduce foot pain and minimize pressure
Cons:
❌ Choosing the right size may be tricky
6. Orthofeet Women’s Sneakers
Quality: 4.4/5
Pricing: 4.5/5
Rating: 4.3/5
Specially designed for women, Orthofeet Sneakers offer the best orthotic experience to help with intense foot pain and weak ankles. The shoes provide a soft, comfy design without causing pinching and irritation. The orthotic insoles reduce pressure on your fascia and relieve pain associated with plantar fasciitis.
If you’ve some custom size and fit requirements, Orthofeet Women’s Sneakers has got you covered. They are available in various sizes to accommodate your foot in a comfortable way. Customers who tried Orthofeet Women’s Shoe said it helped them alleviate their foot, ankle, and leg pain
Reduce pain and pressure – The shoes comfort your bunions, reduce overpronation, and alleviate fascia pain.
Ankle and heel support – Protective lining and extra foam padding on the ankles ensure a comfortable walk. The ergonomic outsole is designed to reduce impact and stabilize your foot.
Pros:
✔️ Reduce foot and ankle pain
✔️ Provide stability and support to the feet
✔️ Make walking comfortable
Cons:
❌ Choosing the right size can be difficult
7. Saucony Men’s Grid Omni Walker
Quality: 4.6/5
Pricing: 4.5/5
Rating: 4.3/5
Prolong walking may dread most people who suffer from foot pain and injury. But Saucony Men’s Grid Omni Walker makes walking for hours easy and painless. Whether you’re trudging a slope or brisk walking on pavement, these shoes will give you an unfair advantage by stabilizing your foot and support the fascia for instant pain relief.
The outsole is sturdy and durable and supports walking with varied pace. Saucony Men’s Grid Omni Walker has compression molded midsole to reduce overpronation. Men who tried the shoe said it supported their long walks without causing any discomfort and pain.
Improve foot stability – These shoes can help people with low arches, stabilize their feet and improve their gait.
High quality and durability – The shoes have a non-marking sole, leather front, and smooth design, which make them durable and high quality.
Relieve foot pain – For someone with plantar fasciitis and arch instability, these shoes do well in reducing pain and discomfort.
Pros:
✔️ Rubber sole for an easy and tight grip
✔️ Orthotic insole for foot stability and pain relief
✔️ Pressure relieving heel support
Cons:
❌ Squeaky sole
❌ Size problem
8. Vionic Women’s Walker
Quality: 4.6/5
Pricing: 4.3/5
Rating: 4.2/5
Vionic Women’s Walker is a better choice for women who want to stay active and fit. If you go to the office, gym, or market on foot, try these shoes for better support and foot pain relief. The footbed is durable and made of quality material for comfort.
Vionic Women’s Walker works well for those suffering from foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis, osteoarthritis, and unstable foot arches. Many customers who bought the pair said they had pain relief from wearing these shoes.
Antibacterial insole – The insole has an antibacterial top lining that reduces odor and wicks away moisture.
Better for long walks – As the shoes support arches and reduce pain, it’s best for walking long distances.
Size fit – Unlike many other walking shoes that may cause sizing problems, Vionic Women’s Walker fits well.
Pros:
✔️ Durable and long lasting
✔️ Best for pain relief and arch support
✔️ Better heel support and comfort
Cons:
❌ The style may not be everyone’s favorite
Conclusion
The right type of walking shoes can go a long way in reducing pain and discomfort caused by plantar fasciitis. People suffering from foot pain will have difficulty walking and doing their daily activities. It’s better to pick the best shoes for plantar fasciitis. For men, our best plantar fasciitis walking shoes are Brooks Men’s Addiction Walker. For women, they are Saucony Women’s ProGrid ST2. If not taken care of, plantar fasciitis can get worse over time. A pair of walking shoes for foot pain is your first attempt to reduce the symptoms and improve your condition.
