If you’re reading this, you likely already know what plantar fasciitis is. After all, there’s no mistaking that intense, blinding heel pain when you get out of bed in the morning. Or the chronic pain that sometimes develops at the top of the heel throughout the day. You might have heard that doctors recommend buying special shoes for plantar fasciitis.
But where does plantar fasciitis come from, exactly? And what shoes should you buy to find relief from your symptoms?
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Why Type of Shoes Are Good for Plantar Fasciitis?
In short, if you’re looking for plantar fasciitis shoes, you’re going to need a pair with great arch support. Why? In your foot, there’s a band of connective tissue running from your heel to your toes. This soft tissue is known as the plantar fascia, and it helps provide weight-bearing arch support as we walk.
Plantar fasciitis is typically the result of the accumulation of stress on the plantar fascia. This can be from excess body weight or from repeated traumatic injuries—such as you would find in an athlete.
In these cases, it’s important that one selects shoes that allow for proper arch support. This can help reduce the stress on the plantar fascia and can prove effective in treating—and preventing—plantar fasciitis. But how do you know which shoes are right for you? Consider the following information.
Source: Runner’s World
How to Choose the Right Shoes and Sandals for Plantar Fasciitis
As you look for shoes and sandals that help treat plantar fasciitis, keep the following information in mind:
- Buy Arch-Supporting Shoes—As mentioned, the first consideration you’re going to want to make is if the shoes you’re selecting are arch-supporting. How will you know?
Typically, they will be labeled as such. Because these shoes are geared with a target audience in mind, they do usually note that they provide better arch support. Below, we’ll list some of the best arch-supporting brands for your convenience.
- Consider the Style—What do you picture when you think of arch-supporting shoes? Do you imagine old-fashioned medical or nurse’s shoes? If so, we can understand why you may have been reluctant to buy a pair of arch-supporting shoes in the past but the wide choice on this and similar websites will definitely allow you to combine your new shoes with pretty much any outfit that you have.
But did you know that these shoes are now so fashionable that you never have to worry about being out of style? As you will see, several trending options are available to help keep you looking your best at all times.
- Choose What’s Most Comfortable for You—Just because a shoe is arch-supporting doesn’t mean it’s the same quality as others. Take the time to find the right fit for your foot to get the best possible results.
Best Plantar Fasciitis Shoes and Sandals
Adding arch support to your shoes and sandals will help to control pronation and limit plantar fasciitis. Even if you don’t have plantar fasciitis adding arch support and cushioning will make your feet more comfortable.
If you’re unsure which brands to look for, don’t worry! We understand just how overwhelming it can be trying to find the right arch-supporting shoes. Especially when all you want is some relief.
That’s why we’ve put together a list of the three most-popular arch-supporting shoe companies.
1. Viakix
image source: Viakix
Viakix offers a full range of athletic sandals for women that provide outstanding arch support.  All Viakix walking sandals have a thick midsole and are equipped with an arch stabilizer that absorbs the forces of gravity and supports the arches. Their all-purpose selection includes both indoor and outdoor options, meaning that you never have to feel limited in what you do.
From their Samara Walking Sandals to their Napali Hiking Sandal, you can be sure to get the top quality every time at a very affordable price point.
2. Kuru Footwear
Source: Barking Dog Shoes
Kuru Footwear uses patented technology to adapt to your feet to provide great arch support. Their insole conforms to the natural curves of your feet and adapts with each step you take—meaning you experience extra comfort.
Women may find great relief with their Quantum shoes, while men may prefer the Quantum Mesh collection.
3. Vionic
Source: Dillard’s
Founded by a podiatrist, Vionic offers many different arch-supporting shoes. From their Alma to their Tate Active Sneakers, Vionic has something to offer for everyone. The Tate sneaker is ideal for men with plantar fasciitis who are looking to remain active. This sneaker comes with built-in arch support and is, currently priced at $129.99.
The Bottom Line
Proper arch-supporting shoes provide effective pain relief for those who are suffering from plantar fasciitis. When selecting your orthotic shoes and sandals, keep the above information in mind to achieve maximum pain relief.
