Top Sneaker Brands for Comforting Plantar Fasciitis Relief

Plantar fasciitis, a common foot ailment, often requires specialized footwear that provides optimal comfort and support to alleviate pain. When selecting sneakers to address this condition, it's crucial to consider those designed with ample arch support, cushioning, and durable construction. Brands like New Balance, Brooks, and ASICS have earned acclaim for their athlete-focused designs that cater to individuals seeking both comfort and functionality. For an in-depth exploration into the best sneaker brands that expertly balance style with support for plantar fasciitis, read on below.

Illustration of sneakers for plantar fasciitis

Best brands of sneakers for plantar fasciitis in 2025

Brooks

Brooks is renowned for producing some of the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis, particularly with models like the Adrenaline GTS 23, which offers rock-solid support, ample cushioning, and a high heel-to-toe drop of 12mm to reduce pain and discomfort. The Adrenaline GTS 23 features a GuideRails system to stabilize the foot and prevent excessive pronation, making it ideal for runners with plantar fasciitis. The Brooks Ghost 15 and Glycerin also provide excellent support and cushioning, with the Ghost 15 having a firmer cushion and a forefoot rocker to aid in the push-off phase of the gait cycle. These shoes are designed to prevent the foot muscles from overworking, with midsoles that have a minimum hardness of 20 HA on the durometer scale. By choosing Brooks shoes, runners can significantly reduce the pain associated with plantar fasciitis.

Asics

Asics is renowned as one of the best producers of sneakers for plantar fasciitis, offering a range of models that provide exceptional support and cushioning. The Asics Gel-Kayano 30, for example, features a 4D guidance system for maximum stability, while the Asics GT-2000 12 is designed with a thicker midsole for improved impact absorption. These shoes are particularly beneficial for runners with flat feet or high arches, and the Gel-Nimbus 23 is notable for its structural support and forefoot flexibility, making it ideal for treating heel spur syndrome. Asics shoes often include advanced technologies like FF Blast cushioning and a strong heel counter to reduce medial and lateral instability. By choosing the right Asics shoe, runners can significantly reduce the risk of plantar fasciitis and enhance their overall running experience. For more tips on how to prevent plantar fasciitis, visit their official blog.

New Balance

New Balance is renowned for producing some of the best sneakers for plantar fasciitis, offering models like the 1540v3, which excels in delivering exceptional support and cushioning through its two layers of performance foam and ENCAP and Rollbar midsole technology. These shoes are designed to address overpronation and provide control over rear foot movement, making them ideal for individuals with plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, and heel spurs. The Fresh Foam More v2 and Fresh Foam 1365 also stand out with their Fresh Foam midsole cushioning, reducing strain on the heel and providing a comfortable, lightweight feel. For those with normal, low, or high arches, options like the New Balance 880 V13, 860 V13, and Fresh Foam X V4 offer tailored support and cushioning. These features make New Balance shoes a top choice for alleviating the discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis. For more information, visit their New Balance shoes for plantar fasciitis page.

Hoka One One

Hoka One One is renowned for producing some of the best sneakers for managing plantar fasciitis, with models like the HOKA Bondi 6 and HOKA Clifton 9 offering significant relief. A study showed that 95% of patients using HOKA Bondi 6 shoes reported improvement in their recovery process, compared to 76% using standard athletic shoes, with a statistically significant decrease in pain Visual Analog Scores (VAS) by an average of 6 points. For more insights, you can watch this detailed video review on YouTube.

Saucony

Saucony is highly regarded as one of the best producers of running shoes for individuals suffering from plantar fasciitis, thanks to their supportive and cushioned designs. The Saucony Guide 16, for example, is a popular choice, featuring a guide rail system that provides steady support and reduces strain on the plantar fascia tendon. Saucony products have been approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) for promoting comfortable and safe foot function. With a focus on reducing peak plantar pressures and offering good shock absorption, Saucony shoes are preferred by many runners, as evidenced by high overall liking scores in biomechanical studies. Discover more about their running shoes for plantar fasciitis on their website.

Vionic

Vionic is a leading brand in producing sneakers and sandals that offer exceptional support and relief for plantar fasciitis. Designed by podiatrists, Vionic shoes feature the Orthaheel orthotic footbed, which helps reduce pronation and correct abnormal foot positioning, thereby decreasing foot, knee, and lower back pain. A groundbreaking study has shown that Vionic sandals can effectively alleviate heel pain, making them a great option for short-term treatment of plantar fasciitis. With a compounded annual growth rate of over 20% in the past six years, Vionic has established itself as a significant player in the comfort shoe segment, generating $180 million in sales in the year leading up to its acquisition by Caleres in 2018. Vionic's products are available through major retailers and online, with 25% of sales coming from online channels.

Orthofeet

Orthofeet stands out as a leading brand for sneakers designed to alleviate plantar fasciitis, offering superior arch support, smart heel protection, and an impact-absorbing design that reduces stress on the feet and back. Their Ortho-Cushion System and premium orthotic insoles provide targeted relief, promoting natural foot alignment and reducing tension on the plantar fascia. With a 60-day wear test guarantee, Orthofeet's shoes are ideal for long days at work, daily activities, and light exercise. The brand has experienced a 6.3% revenue growth over the past three months and leads in website traffic and transactions, with 3,012,307 sessions and 113,373 transactions. Orthofeet's commitment to comfort and therapeutic benefits makes their sneakers a top choice for those suffering from plantar fasciitis. For more information, explore their collection of plantar fasciitis shoes.

Altra

Altra is renowned as one of the best producers of sneakers for individuals suffering from plantar fasciitis, thanks to their innovative ZeroDrop and Foot Shape technologies. These features allow for a more natural, barefoot-style run while providing the necessary protection and comfort. For instance, the Altra Torin series has been credited with relieving plantar fasciitis symptoms in several users, with some experiencing complete relief after just two months of use. The shoes' high profile, typically between 27mm and 29mm, and the absence of a heel-to-toe offset, contribute to their comfort and effectiveness. This design has made Altra shoes a go-to choice for many runners dealing with plantar fasciitis. For more information, you can visit an insightful review on the Altra Torin series.

OOFOS

OOFOS is highly regarded as one of the best producers of sneakers for plantar fasciitis, thanks to its proprietary OOfoam™ technology that absorbs 37% more impact than traditional footwear foams. This technology, combined with a biomechanically engineered footbed, provides superior arch support and reduces stress on the plantar fascia, enabling more natural foot motion and enhancing recovery. Many customers, including those who have tried various treatments like orthotics and steroid injections, have reported significant pain relief from plantar fasciitis and associated conditions like bone spurs. The shoes are lightweight, versatile, and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, making them a popular choice among individuals with foot pain. Since their introduction, OOFOS has garnered numerous positive reviews from customers who have experienced substantial relief from foot pain. For more insights, you can read a physical therapist's perspective on the benefits of OOFOS footwear for plantar fasciitis.

Nike

Nike, although not specifically highlighted as a leader in plantar fasciitis shoes, offers a range of running and walking shoes that can be beneficial for individuals with this condition. For instance, Nike's high-arch running shoes, which are designed to provide adequate arch support, can help alleviate heel pain associated with plantar fasciitis. A significant portion of plantar fasciitis patients, around 83%, wear inappropriate footwear, but Nike's shoes with proper cushioning and arch support can help address this issue. However, it is crucial to select shoes with the right heel height and cushioning, such as those with at least 30 mm of heel stack height and an 8 mm heel-to-toe drop, to ensure optimal comfort and support. While Nike may not be as prominently associated with plantar fasciitis relief as brands like HOKA, their high-quality shoes can still be a viable option.