While the pain and discomfort that accompanies Plantar Fasciitis are only understood by people who suffer from it, there is no doubt that footwear can be a great factor of relief to people who have Plantar Fasciitis.
Many people tend to choose sandals over shoes because the sandals are not only easy to wear on and off but they also offer a freer and more unboxed feeling.
Fortunately, like the shoes, there are many options of sandals for Plantar Fasciitis. However, the point to note here is that although most sandals look all the same when looked without a detailed view, the people suffering from Plantar Fasciitis should be enough careful to choose the right pair in order to get rid of the pain and discomfort that are trademarks of Plantar Fasciitis.
We are providing you with the best 10 options of sandals you can choose when you are bogged down by the painful situation of Plantar Fasciitis.
Please be aware that they are not the only options available to you; you can always research and find some better pairs for your individual needs if you pay attention to the basics.
1. Vionic Bryce Toe Post
The Vionic Bryce with Vionic Technology Wave Sandal is foot-friendly, and doctor-approved alternative that is built keeping heel protection and foot comfort in mind.
The podiatrist-designed and approved, the sandal features biomechanical correction technology that offers the feet a correct biomechanical position for stopping over pronation and inappropriate weight distribution.
Bruce is a lightweight and comfortable thong sandal perfects to put your shoes aside and fully enjoy the environment you are in on your toes. People who wear a half size should select Vionic Arch Support Thong Sandals with a half size down.
The sandals’ strap has mesh webbing with a Neoprene lining that makes it smoother for the foot and long-lasting even after frequent usage. As the strap and toe post is made with foam cushioning, it is one of the most comfortable sandals you can find in the market.
The textured footbed of the sandal helps to maintain stability with utmost comfort even if the conditions are not suitable.
The lightweight EVA midsole of the sandal is provided to re-align the foot and ankle in the healthiest and most correct position possible which the company calls as biomechanical re-alignment. There is an extra-grip with a durable rubber outsole that prevents the foot from unhealthy pronation and improper distribution of weight.
The Bryce is also effective for corns and callouses and it actively prevents and decreases back pain arising from improper postures and unhealthy weight distribution mechanisms. The sandals are podiatrist recommended for offering effective protection against heel pain, Achilles tendonitis, other types of foot pain, and uncomfortable shin splints.
The Vionic Bryce is designed and defined by Podiatrist Philip Vasyli, and these Orthoheel Sandals are built keeping all podiatry concepts in mind.
It is endorsed by the Australian Physiotherapy Association, so one can easily understand why it is one of the best options for people suffering from various foot problems, such as Plantar Fasciitis.
Pros
- Designed for heel protection
- A host of technologies to make the experience of wearing sandals better
- Very soft and cushioned soles
- Built by podiatrists and approved by APMA.
- Stylish and airy
Cons
- May feel larger than required
- Not suitable for extremely hot weather
- May feel sticky
2. Birkenstock Arizona Sandals Unisex
Birkenstock Arizona is a popular open-toe sandal that offers ample arch support, and unbeaten comfort to the feet. It will definitely prove useful to alleviate the recurring plantar fasciitis pain.
With a very supportive footbed and smooth leather upper, these sandals come with a contoured footbed design paired with deep heel cup to promote proper weight distribution and maintain proper gait. This alleviates the improper pressure off the plantar fascia tissues, relieving both pain and discomfort that might seem challenging.
The Birkenstock footbed material has a unique latex and cork construction that helps the foot create a custom footbed that cradles and messages the foot all the time.
The company also claims that these sandals are effective in reducing arch stress apart from healing knee and back problems. The sandal has a raised the toe bar at the front that makes the toes grip the sandal’s footbed to engage the wearer‘s foot muscles, aiding blood circulation.
The sandal also has a well-treaded rubber sole that provides enough traction on all types of surfaces. The best feature of the sandal is, however, its durability and long-lasting nature which does not go away even after prolonged use.
If you need a sandal for all-day support and comfort to your feet, Birkenstock Arizona can provide that even if you are suffering from Plantar Fasciitis.
Pros
- Great Arch Support and comfort
- Latex and cork footbed for added stability
- Rubber sole for increased grip
- Built with a raised toe bar for better fit
- Open toe and completely breathable
Cons
- May feel longer
- Not very durable
- May feel unattached at times
3. SOLE Sport Flips
The SOLE Sports Flips are pretty nice to the feet and the best thing about them is that they don’t smell chemicals even when you buy them anew. The sandal’s Synthetic nubuck leather straps are built to follow the natural contours of men’s feet, making it one of the best sandals for a comfortable and secure fit.
The sandals have a Nylon strap lining that helps the footwear to dry quickly and wick unwanted moisture away, so it is useful even in wet and slippery conditions without any special treatment. The moldable EVA top-sole also conform to the foot contours to offer everyone a custom fit that is simply an outstanding feature considering the price and nature of the sandals.
The sandal also features Metatarsal support pads, complementary arch supports, and deep heel cups for a kind of support and alignment that is pretty hard to find underfoot in any other sandal.
Additionally, the high-density EVA midsoles are built to absorb shock, cushion the feet in the mildest manner possible and provide a gentle support while making any brisk movement. The structures in midsoles are meant to maintain stability and support after the footbeds conform to the feet naturally.
The sandal contains outsoles built with long-lasting synthetic rubber especially at the high-wear portions under the forefeet and heels while the natural rubber used in the rest of the outsole is a matter of utmost durability too.
The sandal is approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) and if you are still looking for some exceptional features go, look out for the closeout and the imported materials used to build it better than most other ones in the market.
Pros
- Podiatric Design that’s Correct for all types of feet
- EVA midsoles for greater comfort
- Useful in wet and dusty conditions
- May last long
- Minimalist and lightweight
Cons
- Not too many varieties
- May not be durable in the long run
- Sizes may run small
4. OOFOS Sandals
Oofos sandals carry the trademark OOfoam technology that claims it can absorb 37% more shock while being extremely durable as the OOfoam keeps the cushion pretty intact wear after wear.
The sandals are built to reduce stress on sore feet, the upper knees, and the lower back, while it cradles the arches.
The biomechanically designed footbed of the Oofos is built to allow the feet to have a natural motion. Being very soft and having a quality to get dry sooner, you don’t need to think too much about wearing them on the beach where they can get wet without being affected much. The sandals also feature a moisture resistant technology and they do not retain any funky smells.
The Oofoam technology is good in absorbing high impacts to take the pressure off from your foot joints. The sandals are good for Plantar Fasciitis or other foot issues like bunions and neuromas as they conform to all podiatric guidelines to conform to all norms provided by the scientific community for an ideal shape of a flip-flop.
If you are interested in owning an Oofoam, try the limited edition Rio Olympics edition – the colors are very vivid and you can definitely find a charm in it if you support Team USA!
The rest is all soothing because it is one of the best sandals in terms of technological superiority.
Pros
- OoFoam technology for better comfort and grip
- Sturdy and long-lasting comfort
- Allows natural motion
- APMA approved design
- Very dependable and good for long hours
Cons
- May not work in rocky trails
- May not be sturdy
- Not suited for wet and humid conditions
5. ECCO Yucatan Sandals
If you are fed up with the blisters caused by hiking boots, try a sandal the footpad of which has gel and the straps of which are carefully built and padded to eliminate friction.
Whether you love the socks or not, you will have absolutely no blisters but the sandals are definitely easy to take up when socks are not there.
Ecco does not recommend immersion in water, but occasional water immersion does not seem to be a formidable problem. If you do not like sweaty feet but want commendable protection, these sandals are nothing like the Keens, but the toe-box of the Keens seem to only fit one kind of foot.
Although the sandals don’t come with the kind of ankle support the boots can provide, they are very stable and provide good traction too on loose surfaces.
Searching for the perfect sandals for plantar fasciitis? ECCO Yucatan sandals are known for the special comfort and a solid structure meant to relieve pain.
They are probably the best ones for severe arch pain as they contour perfectly to the shape the feet, making walking or running a matter of just physical effort and not a tough mission (Impossible?) for the footwear.
With high-quality materials and the excellently sturdy EVA footbed with microfiber cover, the sandals are a trademark of superior cushioning and stability. The RECEPTOR technology that is provided for absorbing shock keep the movement easy on your arch, joints and spine is a good addition to the widespread features of ECCO Yucatan.
The sandal also has PU midsole foam for extreme cushioning and to withstand general wear and tear when walking. There is a lightweight rubber outsole that makes the sandal durable and last longer.
The best thing about these lightweight and feature-full sandals is that they are available in numerous colors.
Pros
- Great cushioning for PF pain erosion
- EVA footbed for increased comfort and stability
- Great for arch support and natural foot positioning
- Good for tough and demanding conditions
- Stylish, available in numerous colors
Cons
- Not very suitable for people with flat feet
- Not very flexible and long-lasting
- Nonformal
6. Chaco Flip EcoTread
The Chaco Flip EcoTread is simple, very unassuming, highly comfortable, and affectionately rugged and you can bet USD 1000 on their durability.
They’re not that costly though, in fact, the cheapest in the market, and if you are interested in getting the most mileage for your money, the EcoTread is unbeatable an option.
The Chaco Flip EcoTread is a great sandal for general use and they are loved a lot by climbers and boater communities as they are extremely sturdy yet gentle to the feet. They easily last more than a few years and their support is extremely engaging even if the situation is highly movement-making in the roughest of conditions.
The Chaco Flip EcoTread is a very supportive, versatile, simple sandal and it is pretty understated too.
It may not, however, seem to be the most comfortable sandal in the market but with time, the straps of this pair break in and soften up. The footbed is also quite stiff at first, but it fits with the contours of your foot very soon as it goes soft and becomes very flexible.
However, the sandal’s stiffness is a blessing in disguise for the backpackers and as everyone knows a very soft sandal won’t help much in trekking too, as sharp and pointed rock can pierce through the footwear to damage the foot.
In another word, this is the most affordable and most trustable sandal you can find anywhere, even when you have PF.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Good for rough and demanding professions
- Simple and useful
- Allows free and natural movements
- Do not feel too heavy
Cons
- May take time to get used to
- Not flexible from day one
- May need extra effort for flexibility
7. KEEN Newport Sandals for Men
KEEN Men’s Newport Sandal is an option for people who want to wear footwear all day long without experiencing any pain. With excellent arch support and heel cushioning, you can enjoy this pair without breaking your budget resolutions.
Apart from looking great, they have a fine and durable leather upper while the footbed portion is built with soft and breathable fabric. The pull-on strap across the top is a great tool to customize the fit as well.
Thanks to a feature called anatomically correct footbed, these sandals are probably the best bets when you think of equal distribution of weight. The sandals also have a raised toe front to keep the toes protected when the wearer is walking or moving on the edges.
With a heavy-duty, durable synthetic sole for flexibility at the forefoot, these sandals are also great for taking day trips. The closed-toe sandal has a stout but lightweight design that makes the Newport trail-worthy footwear with great protection and grip.
The Newport H2 has a stiff rubber outsole that is perfectly fit for wet and dry surfaces. It grips in wet conditions and also makes a transition on the sole from wet to dry surfaces.
The Keen Newport is also a very desirable sandal if you are more inclined toward overall comfort, that too in a price that seems quite non-daunting even if you look at it for hundred times.
Pros
- Heavy Duty sandals for long time usage
- Great comfort and durability
- Great for grip and fit for all types of surfaces
- Affordable yet classy
- Biomechanically correct
Cons
- May become smelly
- May take time to fit on
- Not too much of arch support
8. Bedrock Cairn Adventure
The Bedrock Cairn Adventure has an exceptional and unique cum comfortable strap design to allow airiness along with a security of proper trail footwear. There is the Vibram sole to provide unmatched grip and that is what makes most trail-lovers prefer it over all the rest.
The Cairn Adventure may look like a goofy, wannabe-thong that too for barefoot wanderers, but that is only due to the Cairn’s unconventional design.
Apart from savage trail bite, the sandal offers a hip midsole layer that is softer yet robust rubber with a micro-diamond pattern to keep the foot secure when wet or dusty. There are extra footbed grip helps when the feet to creep forward on steep and sturdy downward walks.
The Cairn‘s ability to provide comfort in challenging situations, the unique strap configuration for a customized fit and its features that allow one to make micro-adjustments with a useful and plug-less toe loop, ¾ inch webbing, and a sturdy ankle strap, it is the best sandal you can find in terms of breathability and security.
The output of all these manifestations is a minimalist design that skips the hotspots and maximizes adjustment according to the surfaces and/ or foot types.
Pros
- Great in terms of security and protection
- Sturdy and durable
- Vibram sole for greater grip on the surfaces
- Customizable and well-fitting
- Very breathable and flexible
- Unique yet good looking
Cons
- May not fit well from day one
- Non-conventional and may need care for longevity
- Non-conforming for the flat feet
9. Chaco Mega Z/Cloud
The Chaco Mega Z/Cloud is a rugged, work-inspired sandal, featuring wider webs and a softer footbed aimed towards making it one of the most comfortable options when you look for sandals when suffering from PF.
It is good for heavy packs on the trail but still has a cushy insole for utmost comfort. The Mega Z/Cloud offers exceptional sporty comfort that is unmatched and yet not out of the limits.
Although not an ideal one for the flat-footed individuals, you’ll find a friend in this shoe if you have low arches. Being outrageously comfortable, the firm and supportive arches make every other attribute fade away in front of it.
The sandal packs some of the most adventurous features for those who want a sandal instead of a boot in trails and it won’t disappoint you if you wear them on a downward trail thanks to the extra wide webbings that provide utmost grip and stability even in the most demanding and downward-looking pathways.
Pros
- Wider webs for better comfort
- Sporty and stylish
- Great for adventurous trails
- Cushioning is superb
- Firm and supportive design
Cons
- May become smelly
- Not for very hot and humid weather
- May take time to get used to
10. Spenco PolySorb Total Support Yumi
The Spenco Total Support Yumi Sandals are good for absorbing shock, and preventing over-pronation apart from an advanced arch support that makes them very comfortable to wear in any weather.
The durability is also noteworthy while the deep heel cup cushioning, arch support, comfortable toe post, and forefoot cushioning all make this an extremely special pair to buy when comfort is of utmost importance.
The sandals also feature EVA surface custom molds and Metatarsal Arch Support to provide the wearer with a kind of lightweight and airy feeling that is simply out of ordinary.
The sandal is also approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) and is recommended for after sports or training, for both indoor and outdoor activities whenever there is an issue with the comfort of the heels.
Pros
- Good shock absorption and protection to the feet
- APMA approved
- Breathable and well built
- Sturdy and durable
- EVA molds and Metatarsal Arch Support
Cons
- May run small
- May not fit the budget
- Not very good for general use
Factors to keep in Mind while shopping for Best Sandals for Plantar Fasciitis
There are some pretty basic rules to consider when you look for the best footwear for your plantar fasciitis treatment.
Size
The right size of shoes according to the measure your foot size is an important factor to feel comfortable when you have PF. It is advisable to add a half to the size when you have plantar fasciitis. Sandals with a smaller size will cause pinched nerves.
However, with a too larger size, the balance may be compromised. As for stability and balance and correct over-pronation, finding the right size is an important factor for plantar fasciitis shoes.
Heel support
Heel pain during Plantar Fasciitis or Achilles Tendonitis start in the Achilles tendon and Plantar fasciitis shoes must be designed to disperse and absorb all the impacts on a heel strike.
Good heel cup that is rigid while you can still curve the middle of the sandal is a bad sign for plantar fasciitis, and the sandals or shoes that are still inflexible in the middle should be chosen.
Arch support
Arch support should be a major target for finding a comfortable sandal or a shoe when you have PF. For the normal and for the high arch you must have the right high arch, for a normal plantar fasciitis arch support will not help you at all.
Arch is a curved part of the foot bone and it extends all the way to the heel. Plantar fasciitis arch support is a component of the footwear placed to reduce the pain in the feet and ankles, it provides protection when you do a strenuous activity.
Stability
Stability is the most important thing and the best shoes and/ or sandals for PF should be made to give you the utmost stability. Do not buy sandals and shoes that are weak in providing stability.
It will only increase the heel pain and discomfort as you take up a strenuous activity even when the condition is mild to moderate.
Midsole Stability
The midsole is an important part for the cushioning effect. The cushioning function is usually covered with EVA foam, polyurethane, and special gels. The midsole provides support to the decreased instability when there are anatomical problems.
In addition, midsole stability helps in recovering from a pain when you have used a poor sandal previously. However, to cater to midsole stability, an added weight may be an outcome too.
Comfort
Comfort in terms of quality along with stability and an arch support is of prime importance for people with PF. The sandals or shoes designed for plantar fasciitis provide comfort via great cushioning.
The best sandals or shoes that are good in terms of comfort should not feel bulky or cumbersome when you wear them yet should make you feel free from any clutch or cage around your feet.
FAQs on Sandals for Plantar Fasciitis
When Does the Heel Pain Occur?
People with plantar fasciitis experience and complain of sharp pain in the morning when they get out of the bed and make their first steps. Later on, with an increasing number of steps, the pain will gradually decrease. Yet, it still can return after a long time too.
What are the Causes of Plantar Fasciitis?
This condition can develop when your feet go through over-pronation and it can happen due to the following reasons:
- Obesity;
- Pregnancy;
- Increased physical activities;
- Tight calf muscles;
- Poor biomechanical postures;
- Wearing unsupportive or flat footwear.
Who are at Risk?
The runners, people who wear shoes with insufficient heel support, and the people who are overweight are all in the risk zone as these conditions create severe tension on heels.
What are the Complications Involved?
Plantar Fasciitis turns into a chronic heel pain affecting the natural and common day to day lifestyles. There are ample techniques to reduce the pain but you may develop it back with back, hip, knee, and foot issues.
Is there any Imaging Tests Needed?
The doctors can diagnose PF with physical examinations and lifestyle or medical history. An MRI or X-Ray may be needed to ensure that a bigger issue in the feet, such as a pinched nerve or stress fracture is not causing the pain.
How to Choose the Right Pair of Plantar Fasciitis Shoes?
Spongy protection, good support to the arch and strong support to the heel must be taken into consideration while selecting the right pair of shoes for PF. However, there are various kinds of variations in these factors from individual to individual and hence selecting the right protection is always an individual matter.
Can tight shoes cause plantar fasciitis?
Yes, shoes, which suits unwell and are not free to bend can cause Plantar Fasciitis. People who wear small shoes can make the condition even worse because the foot will have to remain upstretched and cringed the entire amount of time the shoes are on.
