Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, especially among runners. If you’ve ever felt a sharp pain in your feet when getting out of bed, you’re likely familiar with this condition. Luckily, it doesn’t have to stop you from running. You just need the right running shoes that offer proper support.
The plantar fascia is a ligament connecting your heel to your toes, working like a shock absorber. However, standing can cause tiny tears, leading to weakness, swelling, and irritation. To combat this, it’s essential to find running shoes with a wide toe box, high cushioning, a firm midsole, good arch support, and significant heel drop.
We tested numerous running shoes for plantar fasciitis, evaluating them over a month with regular exercise. Besides personal testing, a physical therapist reviewed our findings, ensuring everything was medically accurate.
One of the most recognizable signs of plantar fasciitis is a sharp pain in your foot when you first wake up, after long periods of standing, or when getting up after sitting. Pain can also occur post-exercise.
The Brooks Glycerin GTS 20 running shoes were particularly impressive. They offered pinpoint cushioning and support, reducing fatigue and alleviating plantar fasciitis symptoms. They comfortably adapted to our feet, providing continuous arch and joint support after various activities. Though they fit snugly, they weren’t constrictive. However, the medium arch support may not suffice for someone with higher arches.
Another great option are the On Running Cloudsurfer shoes, which quickly became a favorite for everyday training. Their cushiony comfort significantly reduced knee, hip, and calf pain. The snug fit kept our heels secure with minimal movement, but they are not great for speed work due to their weight.
For those with high arches, the Brooks Ariel GTS 23 can be ideal. They provide ample padding, and the cushioning is perfect for running on hard surfaces. The generous arch support and wide base offer additional comfort and stability. However, the cushioning does limit toe space, so sizing up might be necessary.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 is a solid choice for treadmill workouts, thanks to its firm heel support and spacious toe box. Yet, they might not provide enough cushioning for pavement running, which could increase hip flexor pain.
The Brooks Ghost 15 is perfect for wider-footed individuals, offering great shock absorption and stability with its soft cushioning and wide toe box. They fit slightly larger, so you may want to try a half-size smaller than your usual.
The Hoka Arahi 6 impressed us with their stability for confident, injury-free running, although they aren’t particularly responsive for speed. Their supportive heel and breathable mesh upper are standout features.
Another Hoka choice, the Gaviota 5, offers excellent stability with its cloud-like heel support. Despite their weight and price, the comfort and propulsion make them an excellent option.
The Hoka Stinson 7 provides robust support and is well-suited for mixed-terrain running. Although less responsive, they provide remarkable stability, helping with plantar fasciitis, as well as preventing hip, knee, and ankle pain.
After extensive testing, the Brooks Glycerin GTS 20 emerged as a top choice, combining cushioning, a roomy toe box, and sturdy construction that left our feet happy. We’ll continue updating our recommendations as we try new options.
First, we consulted podiatrists who helped shape our testing criteria, highlighting features to consider for plantar fasciitis-friendly shoes, such as good arch support, shock-absorbing soles, and a spacious toe box.
Remember, plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the connective tissue on the sole of your foot. Treatment can vary, ranging from rest to surgery in extreme cases. Always consult a healthcare professional at the first signs of inflammation. Running is possible with plantar fasciitis as long as you don’t suffer a tear or rupture. Consult a podiatrist, and seek advice from specialty running stores to ensure you get the right fit and support.
