If you are an avid runner with plantar fasciitis, then getting the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis is a no-brainer. Have you been practicing vigorously, day in and day out, for the upcoming racing event that you’ve waiting for anxiously? But does it seems like it will take another year for you to fulfill your long-standing burning desire to bask in the reflected glory of the champions because you have plantar fasciitis, which results in shooting pain when you land more heavily on your feet while running? Well, then, we have just eight golden words for you find the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis. Yes, we said that the right running shoes are what lie between you and your dream of becoming a champion. Let the world know that it’s time to stand up for the champion; and that you were born to be the best, number one and nothing less, and no injury can stop you from achieving what you want.
Need more inspiration to cope with your injury and pain, and get ready to hit the tracks? Then you should know that Muhammad Ali, the boxing legend and one of the greatest hero that there will ever be, had a great line to say when he was asked about how many sit ups he did every day. He said, ‘I don’t count my sit-ups, I only start counting when it starts to hurt, because then it really counts, that’s what makes you a champion.’ No pain, no gain is probably the mantra to success with everything in life, so don’t give up when you are this close to victory and achieving your dream, simply find the solution – get the perfect pair of shoes for your condition and redefine your destiny. What do you say? Are you ready?
While it may seem like an easy task to find running shoes for plantar fasciitis as there are several brands in the market that claim to design shoes exclusively for this condition, but remember, finding the best running shoes that can have the best therapeutic effect out of so many options can drive you crazy and put a dent in your pocket. How? Well, because trying and testing will take time, put your patience to the test and of course, require investment in different pairs of shoes before you find the best running shoes.
Now you can do this, go through the exasperating grind and work your way to the best pair of shoes or browse through our top 10 best running shoe for plantar fasciitis comparison guide, make the right pick and save your valuable time and money. You decide?
Ultimate Guide to the Best Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
If you’ve decided to go with the latter, then we’ll say that it’s a good decision indeed. We have created this list of top 10 best running shoes for plantar fasciitis after days of market research conducted personally and customer reviews. Though we will be covering the special features to look for in shoes designed for plantar fasciitis, reviewing the best shoes in the market and further educating runners on what this condition is and how it can be treated/improved, but first, here’s a sneak peek into what we have in store for you. Analyze this table and evaluate your options.
| Picture | Running Shoes | Sizes (inches) | Width (inches) | Price | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | ASICS GEL-Noosa Tri 9 | 7 to 15 | D(M) | $$$ |  |
 | Saucony Kinvara 4 | 7 to 15 | D(M), 2E | $$ |  |
 | ASICS GT-2000 2 | 6 to 17 | B(N), D(M), 2E, 4E | $$ | |
 | Brooks Glycerin 11 | 8 to 12 | D(M) | $$$ |  |
 | VIONIC Walker with Orthaheel Technology | 7 to 13 | D(M), 2E | $$$ | |
 | Saucony Guide 9 | 7 to 16 | D(M) | $$ | |
 | New Balance 1540V2 | 7 to 16 | B(N), D(M), 2E, 4E, 6E | $$$ | |
 | Vionic Zen with Orthaheel Technology | 5 to 12 | B(M), C/D | $$$ | |
 | New Balance 940V2 | 7 to 18 | B(N), D(M), 2E, 4E | $$$ | |
 | ASICS GEL-Exalt 2 | 5 to 13 | B(M), C/D | $$ | |
Our research shows that these are the best running shoes choices available currently. However, to make the best pick, we will suggest you to read on so that you can have complete information on plantar fasciitis and solid understanding of the features you must have in your shoes to alleviate the problem. Stick around!
10 Best Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis Reviews
Before you place your dibs on a running shoe, here’s a quick review of 5 best running shoes for plantar fasciitis in the market that we think can help you optimize your performance on the tracks, and leave other runners behind. Take a look:
1. ASICS GEL Noosa Tri 9
With a strong market reputation for high-quality, fashionable and revolutionary sportswear, ASICS continues to amaze athletes and runners with their creations and let’s just say with GEL Noosa Tri 9 Running Shoes, they’ve achieved another milestone – a shoe that has pushed the benchmark much higher in its category. Exclusively designed for plantar fasciitis, GEL Noosa Tri 9 reflects design brilliance and excellence in innovation. It is embedded with ASICS latest technologies and has several other value adding features that make this shoe successfully grab a position in our top 5 best running shoes for plantar fasciitis.
ASICS GEL Noosa Tri 9 features IGS (Impact Guidance System) that employs linked componentry which helps improve the foot’s natural gait from heel strike to toe off. The shoe is cushier and offers excellent shock absorption much needed by runners suffering from the plantar fasciitis condition.
Wait; there’s more! Deployed with Dynamic DuoMax Suppport System, this technology is designed to provide added arch and platform support and stability. The Propulsion Trusstic system inside this shoe mimics connective tissue in the foot by creating tension as the foot enters propulsion stage. The open mesh upper lends excellent comfort, enhances breathability and adds to the luxury experience of running in these shoes.
Another value added feature which we must mention before wrapping this review is the Wet Grip Outsole. It is made from a unique blend of non-organic and organic components which enhances traction on wet surfaces. This means you can deliver your fiery performance even on wet track without any limitation or fear of slipping on the ground.
Though these shoes are no less than perfect, but the only thing we believe can be a turn-off for runners is its bold style. These shoes are too colorful. But if you have a vibrant personality, then you’ll most certainly find these shoes appealing.
2. Saucony Kinvara 4
Shoes that have earned the second spot in our best running shoes for plantar fasciitis list are the Saucony Kinvara 4. These shoes are flawlessly engineered and designed to envy. From comfort to style, stability, and cushioning; seems like these were designed for passionate runners like you, who just don’t want to stop running and those who want to keep on pushing their boundaries higher every time they get on the field. Here’s why we say this, this pair of shoes feature piston-like lugs, intelligently designed to improve overall responsiveness and under foot feel, propelling you forward as if you are running on clouds. Imagine the level of comfort it offers?
The PowerGrid technology deployed inside it is Saucony’s latest innovation. The PowerFoam combined with Grid System provides you with unmatched forefoot and heel cushioning which makes it perfect for runners suffering from plantar fasciitis. The ride of the shoe is light, stable and more importantly, comfortable. In terms of style, it is quite sleek and price wise, it is reasonable. It is definitely footwear that you might want to check out! However, we feel that for Saucony to compete with ASICS GEL Noosa Tri 9, they need to invest more in their technology.
3. ASICS GT-2000 2
Fly pass other runners to the finish line in these stylish and cleverly engineered running shoes for plantar fasciitis. ASICS GT-2000 2 is designed to perfection. And that is not an exaggeration. Following the legacy of ASICS sportswear, GT-2000 2 is feature rich. The FluidRide technology integrated dexterously in the mid sole makes your stride smooth and contributes to softer landings. The Guidance Trusstic construction offers enhanced gait efficiency and mid-foot structural integrity.
We’ve just gotten started, wait till you hear this; its epic Rearfoot and Forefoot Gel Cushioning system attenuates shocks and allows great movement in multiple planes, as you transition through the gait cycle. You not only get that cushy feel that you need, but the Cadillac ride that runners crave for.
The Dynamic DuoMax Support lends stability and excellent arch support while the Impact Guidance System improves the foot natural gait from heel strike to toe off. The IGS creates an even and a smooth foot strike helping you keep up your pace, stay high on energy and enjoy a great run with minimal risk of injuries. Is there anything that is shoe doesn’t have? Nope! It’s got it all seamlessly deployed inside it.
If you are wondering how it ranks in terms of style and fashion? One word, jaw-dropping!
4. Brooks Glycerin 11
Brooks say that this shoe can be best described as your foot butler, and we say; they are not wrong! Brooks Glycerin 11 offers the plush you need, as well as good arch support, stability, unparalleled forefoot and heel cushioning. All these features combined together make it a great choice for plantar fasciitis runners.
It is truly a premium cushioning shoe. Underneath the foot, there is a thick slab of foam, which helps deliver a smooth Cadillac ride. It features a super-soft upper and tongue that makes it extremely comfortable so you don’t have to worry about getting blisters after running long distances.
But we think Brooks can improve on the stiffness of the shoe and plus, they ought to make it lighter. Currently, the shoe weighs 11.8 oz which is quite heavy. Besides that, it’s a thumbs up!
5. VIONIC with Orthaheel Technology Walker
This shoe earns a spot on our list for all the right reasons. It is the only, yes, that’s right, the only product that has earned both the APMA (American Podiatric Medical Association) Seal of Acceptance and recommendation from Andrew Weil, MD-the world-renowned integrative medicine expert. The shoe is designed for runners suffering from plantar fasciitis, promoting healthier feet and active lifestyle. For elevated comfort, it is deployed with their patent Orthaheel Technology. This technology is designed to help ease aches and pains. It offers proper alignment that help lower aches from the ground up. Plus it prevents overpronation. Other features include added stability in the deep heel cup, the addictive support provided by the innovative biomechanical foot bed inside and the firm and flexible midsole for unmatched relief. In terms of style; we’ll rate it average.
6. Saucony Guide 9
Saucony Guide 9 is equipped with new sole unit to offer with smooth ride. The upper material is highly flexible and breathable that is a blend of synthetic leather and mesh material with fused film laminate. The mid sole offers with triple density compressed foam with 8 mm heel drop. The outer sole is crafted out of hard rubber carbon with soft base fore foot. The shoe is also equipped with quality Everrun foam material which runs in a unique top-sole arrangement. A thin sheet of foam has been placed perfectly between insole and mid sole. The mid sole is also covered by protective crash pad offering best support and motion control. Shall we look at the specs.
- The offset is much higher as compared to earlier versions. The new sole technology also replaces the traditional grid technology with extra layer of cushion for better grip.
- It offers with a very stable ride for anyone doing long distance run.
- The resent mesh material is definitely more breathable and flexible fit wise with wider toe-base, certainly the best option for flat feet.
- The heel is a mixture of reflective material and extra layer of hard shell to provide with comfortable and tight fit.
- The soft EVA foam tends to offer with maximum cushion for the body weight while running.
The mid sole is also designed to resist maximum compression when running or jogging whereas the insole offers with unique cushioning effect. The formulation is also arranged as thin slice pattern of Polyurethane globules. This feature always offers with extra boost to make your ride smoother.
7. New Balance 1540v2
Not all runners are looking around for endurance or distance but some of them also look around for desire, when it comes to selecting runner shoes. 1540v2 definitely is the one that fulfills their desire factor. The shoe is designed keeping in mind overpronation and stability. New balance 1540v2 is jus the right shoe that helps you maintain your controlled motion. The unique Rollbar system offers with maximum stability thus minimizing the movement of your rear foot. Let us look at the specifications.
- This shoe certainly is considered as an ideal choice for overpronators with its unique ENCAP technology used in providing extra level of cushion.
- Offers with best compressed molded foam type (ACTEVA LITE) and outer sole compressed with quality blown rubber material.
- Upper body is a good blend of mesh and synthetic material with elegant lace up front.
- Twin layer of foam in the mid sole offer with genuine performance and support apart from offering soft rebound for long distances.
- It is equipped with dual density foam in the collar region for better grip functionality.
Apart from this, the heel area is also supported by 10mm drop sole with blown rubber outer sole. With lower price range the new balance 1540v2 certainly offers with greater value in US. The lace up front on the upper body also adds elegant stylish touch to it.
8. Vionic Zen with Orthaheel Technology
Vionic Zen with Orthaheel Technology certainly is considered as runner’s favorite in terms of support, everyday wear and play. The shoe is simply designed to help you keep in motion with experiencing maximum level of comfort. The shoe is crafted out of premium quality leather in the upper part that is blended with Podiatrist design. Vionic Zen also offers with a deep heel cup design for extra comfort and firm grip. This feature of the foot bed also helps realign the feet in its original position when walking. The shoe is light weight and flexible thus help reduce pressure on your feet when walking or running. Here are the specs.
- Mid sole is crafted out of special EVA flexible material to eliminate pressure completely from knees and ankle region.
- The EVA material also ensures that it acts as best shock absorbent.
- The outer sole is made up of rubber molded material that is marked with patterned thread and increases the gripping power of the shoe when running on smooth terrains.
- The lace up design offers with elegant style and support. The upper part is also made up of water resistant material for durability.
The technology used in manufacturing Vionic Zen assists in offering higher mobility and efficiency. The out sole also offers with perfect level of traction on different types of surfaces or terrains. The EVA technology also helps in reducing the over pronation factor completely making your ride stress free.
9. New Balance 940v2
The New Balance 940v2 is the type of shoe that is designed to challenge any terrain, and not your feet. These are the best running shoes and specifically designed to help overcome over pronation factor. The mid foot offers with unique stand alone T-bean type torsional stability that helps in guiding the mobility from heel to toe the moment you are running or jogging. The heel is supported by special N@ type cushion to reduce pressure and pain from the ankle region. The shoe is crafted to help deliver excellent comfort and support. Let us look at the specifications of this offering from New Balance.
- It is light weight and offers with best stability features. It is well incorporated with N2 cushion system in the rear heel region.
- The shank beam also enhances the pronation factor providing with optimal control when running.
- When running on the road, you may find that the shoes do not offer with clunky feeling, which is an advantage factor for runners.
- You may also find that the support arch is slightly more prominent as compared to that offered by older versions.
- The special cushioning in the sole area also offers with extra level of comfort and grip which is an ideal factor for any running shoe.
Some overpronators may also find the control factor a bit over jarring but others may find it moderate with extra flexibility to help better and controlled mobility.
10. ASICS GEL-Exalt 2
ASICS GEL-Exalt 2 is considered as best supportive and light weight shoe. The rear foot is equipped with adequate cushioning for firm grip and shock absorption. The shoe offers with extra durability and superior quality fit. If you are looking around for best over pronation factor then Exalt 2 is the right choice for you. The foot support is also well constructed and offers with DuoMax system for support thus reducing your chances of leg injury when running.
The outer sole offers with much better traction because of the rubber sole used. The abrasive rubber also offers with best protection against wear and tear. So, what do we get for our hard earned cash? Let us take a look at the specs then.
- The quality Gel technology used in filling the heels makes Exalt 2 as one of the most preferred running shoes. The Gel provides with unique shock absorption along with providing additional cushioning to the inner foot.
- The mid sole is crafted out of SpEVA foam that helps in improving the boost factor for runners along with offering better bounce back performance.
- The upper body is light weight mold out of special mesh material with flexi grooves running both vertical and horizontal.
- An open construction in the front offers with intercool facility so your feet are dry any time when wearing.
- The upper material is also made up of stitched material that holds your feet snugly and offers the right structure when running.
The shoe is extra ordinarily light in weight maintaining flexibility when in motion. The ventilators always ensure that your feet do not smell bad even if you are wearing them for longer hours.
How To Choose Best Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis?
Before you run to your nearest shoe store to buy your running shoes, here are a few things that you must know about plantar fasciitis that would help you make a better decision.
Got Plantar Fasciitis? Read This to Find out What It Is That You Are Suffering From
Plantar Fasciitis
is one of the most common causes of heel pain in middle-aged people and a frequently occurring injury in runners, athletes, and soldiers. If you are unaware of what this condition is; then let us tell you that plantar fascia is basically the ligament (the flat and thick band of tissue) that connects the toes to the heel bone. In simple words, it helps support the arch of the foot. Plantar Fasciitis condition may occur when the plantar fascia is strained. Repeated straining of the ligament results in tiny tears due to which it gets swollen, inflamed and weak, and shooting pain in the heel or foot is felt when you walk, run or stand.
You are most likely to suffer from this condition if:
- You have flat feet or high arches
- You are obese
- You have tight calf muscles or Achilles tendons
- You run or stand for long hours on hard surfaces
- Your feet roll inward too much due to which you experience excessive pronation.
See How Easily You Can Identify This Condition – Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
The real question is how to identify this condition. Unfortunately, many runners experience heel pain but often neglect it, thinking that it will go away when they rest. Ignorance may be bliss but we beg to differ. Not knowing what you are suffering from medically and seeking solutions to treat it, can be dangerous, as it can aggravate the problem and put you in agony later on.
So, to learn whether it’s random heel pain you are experiencing or whether it is what we call ‘plantar fasciitis’, here are some common symptoms to watch out for:
- You experience stabbing pain near the heel in the bottom of the foot
- The pain aggravates as you take first few steps in the morning as you get out of bed
- The pain in the foot and stiffness goes away as you take a few steps
- Your foot hurts when you climb stairs
- The pain is triggered again if you stand for too long
How bad your injury is can be analyzed by the doctor by checking your foot, past health, the types of physical activities you engage in actively and where do you feel the pain and at what time your foot hurts the most.
What Are Causes of Plantar Fasciitis
Now that we know what this condition is and the symptoms to look out for, let us take a deeper dive and learn what exactly causes plantar fasciitis.
Runners are passionate about winning – which is evident through long distance running, and that too, non-stop running. When the foot strikes the ground during running, the plantar fascia ligament stretches; repeated stress causes it to tear. This is why plantar fasciitis is among the most common injuries in runners. Besides this, runners can also develop this condition if their shoes do not have a proper cushioned sole and lack good arch support.
Looking at the enthusiasm to run in professional runners as they take on the risks involved in the sport, shoes brands are now actively designing specific running shoes for plantar fasciitis. These shoes are engineered to help runners minimize the risk of plantar fasciitis or overcome this condition while maximizing their performance on the track.
Other causes that are known to develop this condition are:
- The biomechanical factor that affects how our feet work such as pronation. Pronation is the way the foot rolls inward just after it lands on the ground. It is part of the natural movement and part of the gait cycle that helps our body deal with shocks. Normally, when you run, the foot lands on the outer side of the heel. The weight of your body then passes along the inner edge of the sole. However, in excessive pronation that’s not the case. The body weight borne on the inner edge of the sole. This destabilizes the foot and exposes you to higher risk of injuries like plantar fasciitis.
- How much you pronate is also associated with the height of the arch of your foot. If you have flat feet, then you’ll experience excessive pronation.
- Repetitive activities, irregular surfaces and stress on the feet are also common the leading causes for plantar fasciitis.
- Sometimes, aging can also be the cause of this condition.
Feeling overwhelmed! Then, watch this video below about Plantar Fasciitis, its symptoms, causes, and some cures.
Little Known yet Best Ways to Treat Plantar Fasciitis
If you thought it is the end of the road for you because of plantar fasciitis and lost all hope of turning your dream into a reality, then we say it’s time to start dreaming again! Plantar fasciitis may be common among runners but who said that it can’t be treated it? Well, the good news is that plantar fasciitis can be treated and alleviated. Excited? Did we just bring a smile on your face?
Though we can go on building the excitement and getting you all pumped up before we unravel the best ways to treat this condition, don’t worry, we will not test your patience any more. Let’s cut to the chase and go through the best treatments for plantar fasciitis, shall we?
- Try natural remedies like resting your feet. This may be your mom’s old recipe for wellness, but believe it or not, it still works.
- This is simple – Limit your activity to heal your feet
- Try icing your feet with a frozen bag of peas or massage with a zip-lock bag filled with ice. It has a soothing effect, you can count on it!
- Tape your feet. This method is effective and therapeutic. In fact, many physicians also use it to diagnose plantar fasciitis. Taping provides excellent support to your fascia ligament and help decrease tension while you are up and about. For best results, try taping your feet before you exercise, go to work or right before you go to bed.
- Consider orthotic insoles. From relieving pain over time to providing added shock absorption and correcting your overpronation, they offer great value for sure!
- Use night splints to minimize your morning woes – yes; that feeling of a hot spike, stabbing pain driven through your heel when you step out of the bed. Night splints help position the foot in a 90° dorsiflexion which gently stretches the fascia and relieves the pain of the first step.
- And of course, wearing shoes with proper cushioning and good support can make the most difference.
- Try treatments such as acupuncture, a widely known therapy in the alternative medicine field.
- Get a foot massage on a regular basis with a foot massager.
Continue reading to view the checklist of features to search for when buying sneakers for plantar fasciitis condition.
All You Need is One of the Recommended Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
As we said earlier, we will say it again; the right type of running shoes for plantar fasciitis can make a world of difference and help you give a good run to your competition. Curious about what features make the perfect pair of shoes for plantar fasciitis; then here we go.
Whether you are experiencing plantar fasciitis condition due to overpronation, long distance running or any other reason for that matter, when making your investment in the perfect pair of shoes, look for features like added shock absorption – you can’t do without this. That’s right! The shock absorption mechanism helps dissipate the force whenever you strike your heel to the ground. It provides cushioning for softer landings.
On the other hand, maximum arch support is a feature that provides excellent support under the arch which not just alleviates but also helps prevent plantar fasciitis. Motion control properties in the shoe are value adding as they limit excess motion and keep your feet in proper position.
Make Your Pick for the Best Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
We have filled you in with all the information on this condition and the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis, now it’s your turn to make your pick! Let us remind you that if you want to become a top runner; then there is nothing that can stop you. So, why give your dream a back seat just because of an injury? To cope with running injuries like plantar fasciitis; all it takes is the passion and the perfect pair of shoes. So, take control of your destiny and set out on the path to achieve the victory you desire.