11 Best Hiking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis to Trek Comfortably

Written by Shebna V, Health & Fitness Coach
Updated on Feb 20, 2024
Hiking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis to Trek Comfortably
Hiking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis to Trek Comfortably
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For enthusiasts and explorers, who have been stopped in their tracks by the discomfort of plantar fasciitis, we have the best hiking shoes for Plantar Fasciitis. As you go through this guide, this will be your passport to hiking freedom and will empower you to take on any adventure fearlessly and comfortably.

Plantar Fasciitis is one of the most prevalent causes of aching heels. It involves inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your feet (1). The condition can significantly impair mobility, turning everyday activities into daunting tasks. Suitable footwear can restore your freedom to explore the wild.

You  are in for a treat with footwear options that are functional and comfortable. They are specifically designed to ease plantar fasciitis symptoms. These handpicked 11 hiking shoes, loved and lauded by users worldwide, boast superior arch support, cushioning, and stability—features crucial for relief and recovery. Whether you are an avid mountaineer or a casual stroller, prepare to reclaim the joy of your outdoor pursuits. Our investigation demonstrated that the trails await your triumphant return, undeterred by discomfort.

11 Best Hiking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

The DOUSSPRT women's walking shoes boasting a Phylon sole, epitomize comfort and utility. The key highlight of these shoes is their mesh fabric coupled with an air cushion sole. This ingenious combination ensures your feet stay fresh and cushioned, regardless of the activity. The design of this walking boot for plantar fasciitis also includes a convenient slip-on feature with an elastic cuff, perfect for those who are always on the go. The soft yet durable MD outsole and the air cushion provide an ample buffer between your feet and the ground. The perforated arch design is a standout feature, offering superb ventilation. Whether working, walking, dancing, or nursing, these shoes have covered you for every occasion.

Pros
  • Durable
  • Breathable fabric
  • Comfort fit
  • Value for money
  • Multiple color options
  • Versatile use
Cons
  • May lack adequate arch support for some
  • Best Value for Money

    Timberland Men's White Ledge Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot

    Timberland Men's White Ledge Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
  • Engineered with top-notch quality, the Timberland Men's Hiking Boot strikes an impeccable balance between performance and style. The foundation of these boots is a robust rubber sole that promises durability and a solid grip on all terrains. A 4.75" shaft from the arch signifies attention to comfort and support. What sets this boot apart is its full-grain waterproof leather upper, backed by a seam-sealed construction. This ensures your feet stay dry and comfortable in any weather condition. Additionally, rustproof speed lace hardware and hooks at the top ensure secure and hassle-free lacing. Perfect for trail-ready adventures, these boots are one of the most functional hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis.

    Pros
    • Durable
    • 100% leather
    • Comfortable fit
    • True to size
    • Slip-resistant
    • Versatile style integration
    Cons
    • Might be heavier than some prefer
  • Best Lightweight sole

    Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus

    Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus
  • So, let's meet your ultimate trail companion, the Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot. Fashioned from 100% leather and textile, these ankle-high boots are steeped in advanced technology, boasting seam-sealed construction and a TECHLITE lightweight midsole. Inspired by classic mountaineering style, these boots showcase a sturdy hiker design that ensures exceptional traction and comfort. The signature Omni-GRIP non-marking traction rubber outsole stands out for its high grip on various terrains, making it a choice for three-season use. These trail shoes for plantar fasciitis also feature a reinforced toe and heel construction for long-lasting use.

    Pros
    • Durable
    • Superior traction
    • Value for money
    • Waterproof design
    • High-quality materials
    • Hand wash
    Cons
    • May be pricey for some
  • Best Shock Absorption

    Salomon Men's X Ultra 3 Mid Gore-tex Hiking Boots

    Salomon Men's X Ultra 3 Mid Gore-tex Hiking Boots
  • Pioneering innovation in outdoor gear since 1947, Salomon brings you the Men's X Ultra 3 Mid Gore-Tex Hiking Boots. Crafted from 100% synthetic material, these boots are designed for the hiker seeking adventure and reliability. The mid-top arch, combined with a rubber sole, ensures comfort and reliable traction on any terrain. These plantar fasciitis boots shine with their waterproof construction, perfect for arduous descents and challenging trails. The Descent Control Technology adds another feather to its cap, excelling in the efficient tackle of technical hikes. An EnergyCell midsole made from high-performance EVA foam provides superior shock absorption.

    Pros
    • Durable
    • Amazing grip
    • Waterproof
    • Shock absorption
    • Protective mudguard feature
    • Anti-debris mesh upper
    Cons
    • May not be a budget-friendly option for all
  • Best spacious fit

    Skechers Women's Relaxed Fit Trego Alpine Trail Hiking Boot

    Skechers Women's Relaxed Fit Trego Alpine Trail Hiking Boot
  • You can take on the great outdoors in style and comfort with the Skechers women's relaxed fit Trego Alpine Trail Hiking Boot. These boots are constructed from 100% synthetic material and expertly crafted in the USA or imported. These are one of the best hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis with an air-cooled memory foam full-length cushioned removable insole. The design is infused with breathable comfort, thanks to the mesh fabric panels at the tongue and collar. Finally, the rubber outsole and shock-absorbing midsole ensure safety and stability, even on challenging trails.

    Pros
    • Durable
    • Comfort fit
    • All-day wear
    • Lightweight sole
    • Roomy design
    • All-terrain traction outsole
    Cons
    • May lack sufficient ankle support
  • Best Waterproof

    KEEN Women's Targhee 2 Mid-Height Waterproof

    KEEN Women's Targhee 2 Mid-Height Waterproof
  • Engineered for top-tier outdoor performance, KEEN Women's Waterproof Boots promise four-wheel-drive performance for your feet. This boot features a special breathable membrane for optimal dryness and comfort. Bruise plate protection and a high-abrasion rubber toe guard enhance durability, making these boots suitable for uneven terrain. Made with premium leather and high-quality mesh, these best boots for plantar fasciitis align with the brand's commitment to sustainability, sourcing hides from certified tanneries. An external support shank, contoured heel, and mid-cut height contribute to balance and ankle support. In addition, the removable footbed with arch support comfortably cradles your foot, and the resilient cushioning retains its form even with extended use.

    Pros
    • Long-lasting
    • All-terrain rubber
    • Sustainable materials
    • High-grip traction
    • Supportive fit
    • Durable cushioning
    Cons
    • May require additional care for leather
  • Best Overall

    Knixmax Women's Hiking Shoes

    Knixmax Women's Hiking Shoes
  • Knixmax Women's Hiking Shoes deliver a harmonious blend of style, durability, and comfort for outdoor enthusiasts. The shoes are equipped with suede leather and a mesh upper, offering a soft and breathable lining to dry your feet all day. The outsole is designed for maximum grip on mixed terrains, featuring a deep and aggressive lug pattern combined with gum rubber for extended durability. The women's boots for plantar fasciitis provide exceptional comfort with light cushioning, and further convenience comes with a quick lace mechanism for secure one-pull tightening. Sporting trendy colors and a classic design, these shoes are perfect for walking, backpacking, trekking, climbing, cycling, camping, and even daily work.

    Pros
    • Value for money
    • Breathable lining
    • Aggressive traction
    • Dual fitting insoles
    • Roomy toe box
    • Versatile application
    Cons
    • Potential size adjustments needed
  • Best Comfort

    OrthoComfoot Women Canvas

    OrthoComfoot Women Canvas
  • OrthoComfoot women's canvas slip-on shoes are designed for supreme comfort and style, providing relief and support for various foot conditions. The upper is made from high-quality canvas fabric that ensures breathability. The unique design allows you to wear these as slip-on shoes or slippers. These are the best hiking boots for plantar fasciitis, adding strong arch support and a cushioning layer with a PU memory foam base. This can ease foot and heel pain and relieve foot pressure and fatigue. The shoes are super lightweight and have an EVA midsole and rubber outsole, offering stability, flexibility, and grip on all surfaces and terrains. An extra pair of lower support insoles are included for an alternative comfort option.

    Pros
    • Long-lasting
    • Versatile design
    • Heat dissipation
    • Super lightweight
    • Excellent traction
    • Easy to maintain
    Cons
    • Size chart reference needed
  • Best Stability

    Merrell Women's Moab 2 Vent Mid-Hiking Boot

    Merrell Women's Moab 2 Vent Mid-Hiking Boot
  • With its blend of durability and comfort, the Merrell Women's Moab 2 Vent Mid Hiking Boot is the mother of all boots. They are complemented by a breathable mesh upper and lining that offers exceptional ventilation. The traditional metal hook lace closure provides a secure fit, while the bellows tongue keeps out debris, ensuring clean and comfortable strides. To enhance support, these plantar fasciitis hiking shoes offer a kinetic fit, an advanced removable contoured insole with reinforced heel cushioning, and a unique air cushion in the heel that absorbs shock and adds stability. The lightweight EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) foam midsole offers stability, while the Vibram TC5+ rubber sole guarantees superb traction.

    Pros
    • Sturdy construction
    • Size variations
    • Value for money
    • Enhanced foot support
    • High-quality materials
    • Comfortable fit
    Cons
    • Might require a break-in period
  • Best for Running

    Hoka ONE ONE Bondi 7 Men's Gymnastics Shoes Running

    Hoka ONE ONE Bondi 7 Men's Gymnastics Shoes Running
  • Designed for the ultimate running experience, Hoka ONE ONE Bondi 7 men's gymnastics shoes are where comfort meets performance. These shoes combine synthetic and mesh materials, ensuring a dry and comfortable wear for every hiking experience. With a rubber sole, the shoes provide superior grip and longevity, making them ideal for various surfaces. Their all-black design adds a sleek, versatile touch that can seamlessly transition from the gym to casual outings. The technology implemented in these shoes is dedicated to delivering an exceptional running experience. It focuses on providing enhanced support and cushioning, enabling longer and more comfortable runs.

    Pros
    • Lightweight
    • Versatile Aesthetics
    • Superior Comfort
    • Excellent Support
    • Durable Synthetic Material
    • Breathable Mesh Design
    Cons
    • Might require sizing adjustments
  • Best Traction

    Foxelli Women’s Hiking Boots

    Foxelli Women’s Hiking Boots
  • Embodying a harmonious blend of style and functionality, Foxelli women's hiking boots make every outdoor adventure enjoyable. The footwear employs suede leather and mesh for an ideal balance of durability and breathability. Known as the best trail shoes for plantar fasciitis, they are equipped with a KingTex membrane, shielding feet from moisture while maintaining excellent air circulation. These boots ensure all-day comfort with well-padded collars, tongues, and removable foam insoles, offering effective cushioning and foot protection. Their shock-absorbent midsoles lessen the impact on joints, while the flexible upper allows maximum freedom of movement.

    Pros
    • Long-lasting
    • Stylish design
    • Robust sole
    • Superior comfort
    • Waterproof design
    • Excellent traction
    Cons
    • Sizing may vary

    The shoes included in this list will let you trek with confidence and style. Having the best hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis can reduce pain, promote healing and provide comfort while you enjoy outdoor adventures.

    How to Choose the Best Hiking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis?

    Before choosing the best boots for plantar fasciitis, you need various factors to consider to ensure proper support and comfort. With these easy-to-follow guidelines, you can find hiking shoes that attenuate pain and provide a comfortable hiking experience.

    Arch Support

    Look for hiking shoes with excellent arch support, as plantar fasciitis often stems from improper arch alignment. Shoes with removable insoles and built-in arch support are the best hiking boots for plantar fasciitis. Ensure the arch support is firm enough to stabilize and reduce stress on the plantar fascia.

    Cushioning

    Opt for hiking shoes with ample cushioning for immediate shock absorption and reduced foot impact. Look for shoes with well-padded midsoles and heel areas. Consider models with additional cushioning technologies like gel inserts or air cushioning for enhanced comfort and shock absorption.

    Stability and Motion Control

    Select hiking shoes with stability and motion control features to minimize excessive foot movement and pronation. Go for the pair of shoes with a firm heel counter and a supportive midsole to help stabilize the foot. Shoes with a rigid shank or supportive overlays can also aid in controlling motion.

    Fit and Sizing

    Ensure the hiking shoes fit properly by trying them on and walking around to assess comfort and support. Look for a snug fit around the heel and midfoot to prevent slipping or rubbing, but with enough room in the toe box for wiggle space. You can also size up your shoes if you wear thicker hiking socks.

    Traction and Durability

    Choose hiking shoes with reliable traction to provide grip on various terrains. Look for rubber outsoles with multidirectional lugs for better traction. Additionally, prioritize durable materials and construction to ensure the shoes can withstand the rigors of hiking over time.

    Selecting the foot boot for plantar fasciitis involves considering factors such as arch support, cushioning, stability, fit, traction, and durability. By prioritizing these aspects and trying on different models, you can find hiking shoes that offer the necessary support and let you enjoy your outdoor adventures. Talk to a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations based on your specific condition.

    How to Use Hiking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis?

    Plantar fasciitis is a severe condition caused by the inflammation of the plantar fascia ligament. It can pose a significant challenge to hiking enthusiasts. However, this ailment can't hinder your passion for the outdoors. Selecting and adequately using hiking shoes designed to alleviate the symptoms of plantar fasciitis can create a transformative hiking experience for you.

    Right Footwear

    Before you hit the trails, understanding the significance of correct plantar fasciitis boots is pivotal. Shoes designed specifically for this condition possess additional heel and arch support, cushioning, and a wider toe box, significantly decreasing the strain on the plantar fascia. They also improve your walking gait, balance, and stability, preventing any further aggravation of the condition.

    Shoe Selection 

    Your journey to relief begins with choosing the right hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis. Look for shoes with substantial arch support to relieve the tension from the plantar fascia. Cushioning is another crucial feature, as it reduces the impact on your feet. The shoes should also offer a sturdy heel counter for stability and a wider toe box for toe comfort and wiggle room. Remember, everybody's feet are different - so there will be something specific that suits you.

    Custom Orthotics

    Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, can provide extra relief and support. The hiking boots for plantar fasciitis will come with their insoles. However, you may reap its benefit from replacing them with custom-fitted orthotics. Since it is explicitly designed to match the contours of your feet, it will treat your unique case of plantar fasciitis.

    Lace Styles

    Lacing your shoes appropriately can help distribute pressure evenly across your feet. Techniques such as loop lacing lock, parallel lacing, or window lacing can alleviate tightness and tension on the top of the foot while ensuring your foot is secure, thus improving comfort during your hike.

    Hiking with Care 

    Apart from wearing the right shoes, other hiking habits also contribute to managing plantar fasciitis. Warm up before starting your hike, maintain a manageable pace, and avoid overstraining. Walking on softer surfaces where possible, taking regular breaks, and stretching during these breaks can also reduce the load on your feet.

     

    Dealing with plantar fasciitis needn't deter you from exploring the wonders of the great outdoors. You can successfully navigate the trails despite your condition by understanding the importance of proper footwear, selecting suitable hiking shoes, considering custom orthotics, mastering the art of lacing, and adopting careful hiking practices. Remember, it's about embracing the journey - so take it one comfortable, supported step at a time.

    Your feet are the trusty vehicles for your outdoor adventures. So, when hiking with plantar fasciitis, optimal support, cushioning, and arch design aren't luxuries but necessities. Now that you have the best hiking shoes for Plantar Fasciitis, we are thrilled to assure you that your hiking days are back. You have always been indomitable, and so are these hiking shoes. 

    Conclusion

    Navigating the challenges of plantar fasciitis need not dampen your adventurous spirit. With the right pair of hiking shoes designed specifically to provide relief and support, the trails are yours to conquer again. Embrace the comfort, relish the freedom, and confidently and easily step forward into your next outdoor adventure. The world is too full of natural wonders to let discomfort hold you back. Onward to your next journey, explorer!

    Contributor: Plantar fasciitis by Mayo Clinic

    FAQ's

    What are the best hiking boots for plantar fasciitis?
    The best hiking boots for plantar fasciitis provide excellent arch support, cushioning, and stability.
    Can you go hiking with plantar fasciitis?
    Yes, you can. For safe hiking with plantar fasciitis, you must choose supportive footwear and make sure that you are taking proper precautions.
    What Merrell hiking shoes are best for plantar fasciitis?
    The Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof and Merrell Moab Edge 2 are popular choices for hikers with plantar fasciitis. These shoes ensure perfect arch support, cushioning, and stability for individuals suffering from plantar fasciitis pain.
    What shoes do doctors recommend for plantar fasciitis?
    Doctors often recommend supportive shoes with good arch support and cushioning for individuals with plantar fasciitis. Brands like OrthoComfoot, Skechers, and Riemot offer shoes specifically designed for plantar fasciitis.
    What shoes should you not wear with plantar fasciitis?
    You must avoid shoes with flat soles, minimal cushioning, and inadequate arch support when dealing with plantar fasciitis. High heels and flip-flops are to be avoided too.
    What aggravates plantar fasciitis?
    Walking or standing for a long time, choosing improper footwear, excessive activities, overweight issues, and high-impact activities like running can aggravate plantar fasciitis. Managing these factors can minimize plantar fasciitis pain and promote healing.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    As a certified expert in health and fitness and a staunch advocate of the same, our in-house writer Shebna suggests that people with plantar fasciitis should invest in supportive footwear to alleviate pain and prevent the condition from worsening. To suit these needs, she sleuthed the internet to find shoes that have high arch support, chunky wedged outsoles, tough exteriors, shock absorption, and commendable grip. She recommends these shoes to hikers and or just anyone who loves long walks and outdoor activities. After curating the products, she sought opinions from her orthopedic physician and referred to the testimonials of customers who have been facing the issue. She has then finalized her list of recommendations for your perusal.

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Shebna V
    Health & Fitness Coach

    Shebna is a content creator with an experience of over 6 years and likes to delve into all things health and fit More