In this article, we have reviewed the 10 best running shoes for plantar fasciitis along with a detailed buyer’s guide in the end to help you choose the best pair of running shoes possible.
Plantar Fasciitis is a common condition that leads to pain and discomfort in the heels and there have been many considerations about using footwear with adequate support to avoid the uncomfortable feelings that might plague active lifestyles.
It is a matter of an easy guess that since Plantar Fasciitis makes it harder even to stand still, thinking about running is a sensitive and critical matter altogether.
With some great support from the best running shoes, however, running when you are suffering from Plantar Fasciitis should not be a problem.
The only matter of concern here is to find an ideal shoe that can provide enough cushioning, flexibility and arch support so that running while still having a heel problem does not become too demanding and painful a task.
Here are the best 10 running shoes that can help you get rid of heel pain and tension issues if you are suffering from Plantar Fasciitis.
1. The New Balance 1080 v8
The New Balance 1080 is a superb running shoe that packs some of the best features to help you get rid of heel issues if you have Plantar Fasciitis. The outsole of the 1080v8 uses blown rubber that makes the shoe comfortable to the optimum.
The majority of the tread is built with a harder crash pad at the heel that not only supports the heels via great cushioning and softer feel but also saves the heel from all direct impacts to keep it safe from any further injury.
The outsole is very durable and it is as useful on road, treadmill, and track, as it is on the light trails.
In the midsole, 1080v8 uses Fresh Foam that compresses a little more while landing and then provides a firmer base when you try to push off the ground. The firmness of the midsole provides great stability and as it has a strong heel counter, the shoe works pretty superbly with a supportive insole or an orthotic insertion if additional support is required.
The upper of the 1080v8 is a breathable, engineered mesh that makes the upper portion very comfortable and as the toebox and midfoot have enough room, this shoe is an excellent option for the runners that have a wide foot.
It is designed for mid-to-long distance running, but it is also a comfortable walking shoe. 1080 has a wide toe box with a soft mesh that accommodates bunions and hammertoes perfectly.
The stiff forefoot rocker is a blessing for conditions such as plantar fasciitis, or osteoarthritis of the foot or ankle, especially at faster paces. The shoe provides a smooth transition to toe-off and made the shoe feel quite fast, even when the shoe is fairly heavy.
1080 is by no means a ‘speed’ shoe at all and is designed to be a highly cushioned, high mileage trainer that would make running with Plantar Fasciitis fun.
Pros
- Tough and durable out and midsoles
- Effective shoe design
- Comfortable for all feet and heel issues
- Enough room for personalization
- Fast and comfy
Cons
- Heavy
- May turn smelly in sweating conditions
- Casual, not fit for formal occasions
2. ASICS Gel Kayano 24
All of ASICS’ top tiered Kayano 24 has Gel in the heel and the Dynamic Duomax cushioning aid with shock absorption and pronation over controlling makes it a great running shoe for people having Plantar Fasciitis.
The guidance line that creates a physical divide in the outsole is perfect for controlling the foot from strike to lift off.
FlyteFoam, a composite that ASICS sticks to is lighter than the competing brands and it promotes adaptive cushioning. The sole of this shoe is incredibly sturdy and handles great impacts.
The shoe offers a feeling of being in control and it transitions well when someone takes on hills. The Flytefoam acts well enough as a springboard, and the other parts of the shoe help it to stay fast when the running is a bit faster.
The upper of the shoe has the seamless Fluidfit material that gives it a glove-like feel. The toe box is probably tight but the lacing system does a great job of evenly distributing the pressure on the top the foot. The added overlays on the eyelets make she quite durable.
The heel has a large exoskeleton clutching system that allows the heels to stay in place at all times making it a great option for the shakeout days and the recovery runs. It is NOT a racing shoe though.
The shoes are great for running medium to long distances and longer runs at a slower pace just as in case of Marathons is suitable and appropriate with this pair. The shoe is incredibly comfortable to log high mileage runs which again tell about the quality of materials used to build it.
ASICS always has a tendency to run on smaller side. And with the 24 it wanted to improve the fit in the upper and there is no spilling out feeling of the sides like the 23s but the toe box really can be a matter of discord if one tries to use the show for faster runs.
If you are going to buy it buy half a size up if snug shoes create an issue for you.
Pros
- Cushioning and comforts of the highest levels
- Good for high mileage
- Breathable and durable for long runs
- Great stability
- Stylish
Cons
- Size may run small
- Heavier
- Not for faster runs
3. Saucony Kinvara 9
With a new version for people who love to run fast, Saucony has ushered in a new age for running shoes. The Kinvara 9 is quite similar to that found in the 8, especially when the sole is considered.
The sole of Kinvara 9 is built with lightweight foam along with reinforced hard rubber pads on high-wear portions with a thin profile and a minimum heel-to-toe differential (with a 4mm drop). The new PowerGrid compound in the heel that has replaced PoGridsports a lighter and more durable material.
The Kinvara 9’s upper is, however, a complete remake when compared to the older models. The fused plastic design of the 8 is no more available as the new upper material is completely new and probably less durable than the Kinvara 9.
It is made of Flex Film material overlaid on soft, breathable mesh fabric, but the popular ribcage-like design of the previous model is designed in a minimalistic manner that is similar to the upper of the Kinvara 8.
Kinvara 9 is very comfortable with no blisters, no major notable discomfort, and an overall smooth feeling that surpasses the little drawbacks it has. The usual break-in period is of about a week which is a major improvement over the previous Kinvara models – 2 and 3 that took about two weeks.
With no iconoclastic changes, no drastic and notable redesign, and nothing that is overly gimmicky, the Kinvara 8 is a great and learnable lesson of minimalistic branding.
The shoe is quite popular and has a fan following, has a great design, it is aesthetic, and it has feel-worthy comforts and fit characteristics that make it stand out from the crowd. It is an excellent shoe that can withstand the nuances of Plantar Fasciitis in a simple yet satisfying manner.
The minimalistic changes do make sense because too many changes with a popular model of shoe, it would look silly.
Saucony has created the Kinvara 9 as the perfect reboot to a well-designed shoe by making very minimal changes which definitely hearken back to earlier models with a new and very fresh charm of a truly good running shoe.
Pros
- Lightweight sole.
- Sporty and flexible
- Super comfy and ready to use instantly
- Minimalist design
- Sturdy and fit for active users
Cons
- Not very durable
- Not for all occasions
- Upper is not quite long-lasting.
- Can be smelly.
4. Mizuno Wave Rider 20
The only successful running shoe that has been in the market for two decades, the Wave Rider is Mizuno’s longest and probably also the most popular continually updated model with a lot of loyal customers over many years. The Mizuno Wave Rider 20 sports two main improvements.
The first is an all-new, completely redesigned cloud wave plate to provide an overall softer, smoother ride. And the other is the top midsole foam that has a new U4ic foam compound; which makes the 20th version of the Wave Rider at least more than 30% more responsive and durable than the previous models.
Wave Rider 20 has adequate cushioning and is very responsive and it gives more than enough support on longer runs – up to 24 kilometers– but at the same time, it is a very fashionable lightweight runner as well.
The shoe is comfortable, cushioned and supportive, but certainly not chunky at the same time. Although not quite fit for a 10k or less, the lightweight shoes are made for these distances. The tread of Wave Rider 20 is like a lot of road shoes available in the market and perfectly adequate for running on the road and the trails.
The new addition is a reflective paneling that reflects lights at night, so it is needless to mention that the shoe looks stunning.
The Wave Rider 20 is of one solid color with laces of the same color and only the silver reflective Mizuno flash. This shoe is perfect for many of your running needs as it is pretty responsive and cushioned to work well for both training and racing.
As it is hard to buy too many shoe pairs for workouts, easy training, speed-work, short races, long races, and other purposes, we often look for one pair that is multipurpose. With a nice mesh, breathable upper that keeps the feet cool, Wave Rider 20 fills the gap adequately.
The Wave Rider 20 is equally fit in freezing and scorching weather conditions and it has certainly got the upper spot on to perform well in any running condition.
There is an issue with some side rubbing around the heels, but adjusting the laces makes it very comfortable to run in. The rest depends on your podiatry expert as to whether it is the right shoe for you but as far as efficiency is concerned, there is hardly any competition with this Wave Rider 20.
Pros
- Lightweight sole.
- Sporty and flexible
- Super comfy and ready to use instantly
- Minimalist design
- Sturdy and fit for active users
Cons
- Not very durable
- Not for all occasions
- Upper is not quite long-lasting.
- Can be smelly.
5. Hoka One One Bondi 5
The Bondi 5 is HOKA’s most cushioned road-specific model with the cloud-like landing with a little worn-out look, but it offers plush comfort in a neatly packed design.
It lacks in the upper, and responsiveness and weight factors but when viewed as a distance shoe and not an everyday design, the Bondi 5 excels pretty quick.
The Bondi 5 is without a doubt the most cushioned shoe designed for distance running. This shoe is sure to carry you comfortably mile after mile but it doesn’t necessarily make it the right choice for every runner.
Constructed with marathoners in mind, these shoes with impact-reducing kicks are sure to turn a few heads – the Bondi 5 is the plushest road-specific shoe in HOKA’s entire lineup.
The lack of bounce makes Bondi 5 a specialty item than an all-around daily user. With a sole that is incredibly stiff, it is not ideal for speed work, interval training, or the track. The tongue and heel are stiffer, and despite its soft materials, the shoe’s upper is much less plush than others.
This shoe is in no way an uncomfortable option for people with Plantar Fasciitis, but with its maximally cushioned bottom, but the shoe is not for the lightweight speedsters. With optimum stability and a wider toe box, the toes could spread out, especially after being stuffed into some narrower options.
Although the makers term the Bondi a neutral build, it has a stable, secure upper and its wide fit is a perfect gift to runners with wider feet. The Bondi 5 is on an excellent middle ground between optimum stability and superior comfort.
The heel is stiff, and the weight of the Bondi 5 in addition to its plush sole make it unfit for speed work, but its super cushions and plush interiors make it a perfect shoe for people having heel pain or spurs.
The verdict about HOKA Bondi 5 is that if marathons are your part of life, there is hardly any other better shoe to imagine for the endurance days.
Pros
- Superb Cushioning
- Good-looking
- Excellent for long distance running
- Good for high impact runs
- Plush interiors
- Excellent sole
Cons
- Heavier
- Upper is non-durable
- Not for lightweight speedsters
- Less responsive
6. Brooks Men's Adrenaline GTS 19
Although Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 19 looks minimal at first sight, the shoe packs a lot of technology and comfort quotient for the people looking for heel comfort.
The shoe is similar to its previous version, but with the Brooks’ logo as the pop color on the side, the mesh is kept quite simple and attractive against the synthetic overlays.
The Upper’s construction is composed of Air mesh and synthetic overlays, to allow maximum breathability, without adding any extra weight to the pair. The mesh feels great as it is extremely lightweight and dries very fast.
The new lacing design evens out the lace pressure to make the shoes comfortable and creates a more conformed, snug fit.
The 3D Fit Print technology is used by Brooks to offer a flexible, no-stitch fit. This contains nylon and spandex material to disperse moisture and reduce friction. Brooks’ 19 comes with patented Heel and Midfoot Caterpillar Crash Pad, a Full-Length BioMoGO, the Progressive Diagonal Rollbar (PDRB), Omega Flex Grooves, and the Brooks’ DNA technologies.
The overall result is an efficient stride, and a smooth heel lay down that offers maximum cushion and comfort to the footbed and heels.
The common issue with many running shoes where an uneven distribution of weight causes the arches to collapse; weakening the ankles to injure the feet is not a problem with this shoe. This pair has thermoplastic urethane arch shanks to control torsional flex in the midfoot which provides an extra control and stability.
Brooks patented DNA Technology has a full-length gel cushioning with a highly viscous liquid, to offer instant reactions and response to applied forces on the foot. It also gives twice the normal energy return to make running comfortable and frictionless for the heels.
Meanwhile, the Brooks’Adrenaline GTS 19 midsole has Brook’s famed BioMoGo technology, which consists of a polymer alloy foam which helps the midsoles breakdown faster in landfills and offer maximum protection to the heels, such as in case of Plantar Fasciitis.
Pros
- New Lacing system
- Thermoplastic urethane arch shanks provide additional support
- Lightweight and sturdy
- Good looking and comfortable for the heels
- Technically superior
Cons
- Not for long distances
- Sizes may not fit identical to different types of feet
7. Saucony Women s ProGrid Integrity ST2
The women’s Saucony Intensity ST2 walking shoe is one of the most comfortable shoes currently available in the market.
With a supremely contoured EVA midsole that offers responsive cushioning to the heels without feeling heavy, the lightweight and durable shoe is one of the best choices for women suffering from Plantar Fasciitis.
The ProGrid Integrity ST2 as a forefoot stretch zone that is perfectly matched with a responsive EVA and rubber forefoot to provide an enhanced flexibility and the maximum comfort. The shoe has a durable rubber outsole that provides superior cushioning and grip, perfect for tackling every mile on all types of floors.
The shoe comes with full grain leather upper along with a fresh and breathable roomy forefoot for a more comfortable and comfy fit.
Moreover, the plush tongue and collar for extra comfort make this shoe a great choice for people with heel spurs. The shoe is extremely cushioned both on the lower and upper portions and there is no reason not to buy it if you have painful heels that cannot handle rough impacts while running.
There is a removable, cushioned footbed with optimum arch support to make it a preferred choice of long-distance runners. The compression molded EVA midsole doesn’t weigh heavy and offers the much-needed durability along with a great-feeling responsive cushioning for the heels that might be a sensitive zone for various ailments, including Plantar Fasciitis.
The most appreciable feature in the shoe, however, is the forefoot stretch zone and a responsive EVA and rubber that makes this shoe extremely comfortable with unmatched flexibility that can make the go-getting women feel active even in painful heel conditions.
Additionally, the non-marking rubber outsole provides an appropriate grip and the needed cushioning that may be crucial for comfort when you suffer from Plantar Fasciitis.
Pros
- Lightweight and solid grip
- Comfortable upper and lower cushioning
- Freedom with extra room in the front
- EVA mid and outsole
- Rubber sole with utmost control in impactful running situations
Cons
- May not be long-lasting
- Laces may feel rough
- Not quite responsive in extremely demanding situations
- May feel warmer in summers
8. Asics GT-2000 5
The men’s Asics GT-2000 5 running shoe is for people who want the maximum support from a running shoe in high impact running conditions. With a host of podiatric technologies, this shoe packs some of the most demanding and desirable features a running shoe for the go-getter should have.
The shoe offers an exceptional Rear and Forefoot Gel Cushioning technology to provide superior comfort where and when you need it most.
The Impact Guidance System, Heel Clutching System technology and Dynamic Duo Max Support System technologies are used to make the shoe a great running tool that helps the foot retain its natural gait from the heel to the toes. Providing a superior smooth ride along with maximum comfort for people who may have sensitive heels.
Impact Guidance System technology is ASICS’s trademark creativity that makes the shoe responsive and capable of handling the utmost impacts, making it a shoe extraordinarily useful for high-impact running in the trails.
The Rear and forefront GEL Cushioning System offers maximum comfort and cushioning during a high speed run apart from making it a great choice for people suffering from heel pain.
This shoe also has a FluidRide bounce-back cushioning that adds extra comfort for heels and the footbed while keeping the shoe extremely lightweight. There is also the Comfort Drysockliner, Duo Max dual-density support system, and Guidance Trussic System midfoot structural integrity technologies that make this pair a very good running shoe with extreme stability, comfort, and usefulness in wet and/or dry conditions.
The most notable technology that makes Asics GT-2000 5 an ideal option for people suffering from Plantar Fasciitis is the Heel Clutching System that offers an improved heel fit and utmost cushioning. So that running with a painful heel does not pose any threat to normal day to day lifestyle of active and sporty individuals.
Pros
- Adaptive and comfort-creating bunch of technologies
- Lightweight and solid comfort for heels
- Cost-effective
- Extreme support for maximum comfort while running
- Durable and weather-proof
Cons
- Lacing may feel tight
- No extra room for toes
- Not for formal occasions
9. Altra Torin 3 Running Shoe
The Altra Torin 3.0 is Altra’s newest version of its most popular road shoe. The most notable change in this shoe is the upper that is more breathable and comfortable compared to older models.
A highly cushioned shoe made to provide the maximum comfort, Torin 3.0 is surprisingly lightweight with a 28 mm stack height, apart from being very responsive. The Altra’s ‘A-Bound mid-sole’ is a layer of intelligent cushioning that offers compressions that are 2-3x less spacious than the common running shoe foams.
This helps the shoe hold up better over time than common foams in other shoes. It also offers a much better ground feel while reducing the forces and impacts of striking the ground during the running sessions on hard surfaces.
The upper is made with a superb quick-dry air mesh that is flexible, comfortable, and lightweight. A moderate cushioning around the opening of the shoe makes for a snugged feel, without being too tight or restrictive, making this shoe a perfect options for people looking for ultra-light shoe pair that helps them carry on while having issues with the foot.
The comfortable shoe that delivers a smooth ride, and provides a good ground feel can be worn for any length no matter whether it is a workout or race session, but the Torin 3.0 definitely fits the bill as a serviceable/durable road shoe.
The upper and heel comfort makes Torin 3.0 an ideal shoe for people suffering from Plantar Fasciitis as it reduces the impact while running that can make it an exceptional comfort-provider when you have heel pain.
Pros
- Superb upper comfort
- Very comfortable and no restrictive feeling
- Impact-reducing design
- Good arch support
- Lightweight and responsive
Cons
- Sizes may run small
- Non-durable
- May feel warmer during summers
- Long distance performance may not be up to the mark
10. Saucony Guide 7
The Guide 7 harmoniously blends stability, cushioning, and flexibility to make it an exceptional running shoe cum a daily stability trainer.
The shoe has a Sole Unit that has switched from Saucony’s ProGrid cushioning to Power Grid system that is made with a 15% lighter and 30% more durable material. That is probably the most noticeable feature that differentiates the 7th version from the 6th.
The other appreciable modification in the Guide Version 7 is the flared forefoot design that creates a wide comfortable platform that not only generates room for the toes but offers smooth and stable propulsion in latter stages of the gait cycle.
In other words, people who have heel problems will find this shoe as an exceptionally accommodating pair.
The Guide 7 has a roomier wider toe box and the change in the upper material to a more open mesh Hydramax material makes it a well-wicked pair that offers the wearer an attractive smooth plush feel.
The Guide 7 is definitely a wonderful shoe for runners looking for a combination of support, comfort, and durability to make their run a smooth activity without having to bother about the stability, comfort and support one seeks in a running shoe.
Pros
- Lightweight and durable
- The right mix of comfort, stability,and looks
- Freedom from sticky and covered feelings
- Makes running much more effortless
- Doubles up as a training shoe
- Improved forefoot comfort, stability, and flexibility
- Good support without being controlling.
Cons
- Non-long-lasting
- No all-weather comfort
Best Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis 2019 - Buyer's Guide
Shoes that are over a year old, or if they feel too big or create an unwelcome feeling of rubbing your feet and create blisters, it’s high time you go for a new pair of running shoe.
The heels deserve better, especially you feel pain in them and if you do not go for a perfect feel, there are enough chances that you’ll make your Plantar Fasciitis worse. Moreover, It is important to have an excellent arch support if you are suffering from heel problems without which your foot’s ability to heal may disappear.
One of the most important factors to look for in a running shoe for plantar fasciitis is the fit. The foot arches and heel are inflamed and swollen when you have Plantar Fasciitis and hence having the perfect and optimal fit must be made a priority.
Nowadays, if the shoes feel that they need support, orthotic inserts are an incredibly effective and popular idea nowadays. The orthotics are wallet-friendly and very easy to find and you have a variety of options to choose from. The most desirable feature of orthotics is that they can be worn with any shoe, even with your favorite shoes as long as the fit is correct.
The last thing to keep in mind is that you don’t have to look shabby when you go for a running shoe to get rid of Plantar Fasciitis. Sophisticated technology and availability of lots of technologies for the footwear designs have made designers able to create every type of style imaginable.
So finding a stylish pair of shoes is now quite easy and desirable. As long as you are getting good comfort, style should not be a problem at all.
FAQS on Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a condition where an inflammation of the tissue that spans from your heel all the way across the bottom of your footcalled the plantar fascia that connects the bone in the heel to the bones in your toes becomes sensitive and swollen, causing pain and discomfort in the heels.
Who Gets Plantar Fasciitis?
Ten percent of the population suffers from Plantar Fasciitis in the world.Women are more vulnerable, mainly because of wearing high heels. High heels strain the calf muscles, which makes the tissue get injured. Men also get Plantar Fasciitis frequently, but it is less common than women.
Why Having the Right Type of Running Shoe for Plantar Fasciitis is Important?
Feet are very important parts of the human body and when injured, it can turn debilitating and disabling in nature. But with proper care and support, plantar fasciitis can be got rid of and you can get back on the road to recovery.
When the subject of taking care for Plantar Fasciitis is raised, the best thing to do is to get a running shoe that offers maximum cushioning and comfort so that the conditions can be relieved and you can stay active while still making room for the condition to reduce in nature.
Why Plantar Fasciitis needs Attention?
Maintaining healthy feet is a priority because movement gets affected due to a foot injury. The medical community terms the condition of Plantar Fasciitis as inflammatory in nature, which is a degenerative condition.
This means the tissue in the foot actually diminishes in length over time if attention and care are avoided in the long run.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
Tiny tears in the foot’s ligaments along with an inflammation can trigger Plantar Fasciitis.
Some of the most common factors that contribute to the onset of the condition include being overweight and passing more than four hours a day on your feet. Too much strain on the feet can also lead to the degenerative condition.
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