Planning your next hiking adventure but are afraid your plantar fasciitis won’t allow you to enjoy it? We hear you! Plantar fasciitis is really painful and hiking could make things worse. This is exactly why one of the most important things you can do to prevent heel pain is to ensure you have hiking shoes that provide the support and stability you need.
To help you in your quest today we’ll be sharing with you some of the best hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis. Heel pain is caused by an inflammation of the plantar fascia. The inflammation develops as the result of stress on this tissue causing micro-tears at the bottom of the heel where it inserts. It’s brought on by a combination of repetitive strain on the tissue, faulty biomechanics of the foot, and tight calf muscles.
Most people diagnosed with plantar fasciitis must wear shoes that will help not hurt their condition. Even though the treatment for plantar fasciitis requires some changes, living with heel pain doesn’t mean you need to give up on your favorite outdoor activities.
You do however need to be aware of selecting the right shoes. We are talking about footwear that is specifically designed to provide the right cushion and arch support plantar fasciitis feet need.
We have to say, it’s a jungle out there when it comes to shoes and plantar fasciitis, however, finding the best hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis is totally possible. To help you in your quest, we’ve put together some of the best-rated hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis below. You can thank us later.
Best Hiking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis Reviewed In This Guide
- Best Overall Hiking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis: Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe
- Best Seller on Amazon Hiking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis: KEEN Men’s Targhee II Hiking Shoe
- Best Affordable Hiking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis: JABASIC Women Hiking Shoes
- Best Water Resistant Hiking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis: KEEN Women’s Voyageur Hiking Shoe
- Best mid Boot Hiking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis: Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Vent Mid Hiking Boot
How To Choose The Perfect Best Hiking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis For You?
When hunting for the best hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis, you want to look out for a number of features that combined can offer the comfort your aching feet need. With numerous styles out there, how do you identify the one that will actually help your condition and not make it worse?
First things first, you want to think about the type of hike you’ll be doing and the amount of weight you’ll be carrying before purchasing your shoes. A lightweight hiking shoe may be perfect for an easy day hike with a lightweight pack but a heavy-duty hiking boot will be needed if you’re carrying a bunch of weight for overnighters, doing hikes with more elevation gain, or tackling rougher terrain.
The best hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis should fit snugly but not too tightly and provide enough room in your toes so that you have wiggle room. Make sure to have your feet measured when purchasing your footwear.
You also want to take your foot type into account. For example, if you have flat feet, shoes, and boots with good arch support are a must. To emphasize, when buying the best hiking shoe for plantar fasciitis, you always need to consider the comfortability of the footwear
Hiking is an activity that requires the right hiking gear, and if you have flat feet, part of that hiking gear should include the best hiking shoes for flat feet around..
In reality, you should be able to wear hiking shoes that you can use for prolonged periods of time and still be comfortable with them.
In short, excellent comfort, fit, and heel support are still the most important things when looking for the right hiking footwear.
Types Of Best Hiking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
Low-Cut Best Hiking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
Hiking shoes have much more breathability than hiking boots, so your feet will stay drier. They also have a way shorter break-in period than hiking boots which means fewer blisters! The main advantage of hiking shoes is that they’re lightweight.
Low-cut models with flexible midsoles are excellent for day hiking. Some ultralight backpackers may even choose trail-running shoes for long-distance journeys.
Mid-Cut Best Hiking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
- Day hiking boots: These range from mid- to high-cut models and are intended for day hikes or short backpacking trips with light loads. They often flex easily and require little break-in time, but they lack the support and durability of stout backpacking boots.
- Backpacking boots: These are designed to carry heavier loads on multiday trips deep into the backcountry. Most have a high cut that wraps above the ankles for excellent support. Durable and supportive, with stiffer midsoles than lighter footwear, they are suitable for on- or off-trail travel.
Best Hiking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis List
1. Merrell Women’s Best Hiking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
Pros
- 100% Leather
- Vibram Sole
- Pigskin Leather
- Traditional Lace
- Protective Toe Cap
Cons
- Pricey
- No Ankle Support
Experience out-of-the-box comfort with durable leathers, a supportive footbed, and Vibram traction, all in a versatile package, you won’t doubt why Moab stands for Mother of all boots.
What Our Testers Say
I LOVE THESE SHOES! I’m a competitive hiker and I put in up to 15 miles a day and these shoes are so comfortable! There was no break-in time at all. I put them on and hit the trail. I normally wear a 7 1/2 but I ordered an 8 and they fit perfectly! I have wide feet at the toes and the Moabs are really roomy, had plenty of room to wiggle the piggies.
They’re lightweight enough not to fatigue my legs, but they are sturdy and easily handle rough terrain and rocks. It’s been super humid up there in the UP of Michigan, and my feet haven’t been sweaty at all. Got a race on the 4th – will let you know!
This leather and mesh upper provide breathability and durability on the trail. High-performance rubber sole with unmatched durability, stability, and slip resistance providing confidence on your feet.
Targeted heel cushioning improves overall comfort by reducing stress on your foot with each step.
Tips
Please consider the type of foot that you have if you are serious about being comfortable when you are hiking for several miles.
2. KEEN Men’s Targhee Best Hiking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
Pros
- 100% Leather
- Rubber Sole
- Waterproof
- Fit & Comfort
Cons
- Expensive
KEEN.DRY a waterproof, breathable membrane lets vapor out without letting water in; Durable waterproof protection stands up to wet weather, and the lug outsole adds traction.
Keen all-terrain rubber outsole provides high-traction grip in muddy environments and on rocky surfaces; non-marking rubber outsoles leave no trace or imprints when walking indoors.
What Our Testers Say
Stumbled on these years ago now I always buy Keen as they fit me better than any other manufacture without having to get a special fit as I have a broad fitting and very comfortable
They are always hard wearing, normally I by 2 pair at a time every 2 years and wear on rotation. The uppers and soles last as long as each other normally I find one would give out before the other on other manufacturers
External stability shank offers lightweight support for improved mobility and torsion control on uneven surfaces. Cushioned collar reduces irritation and discomfort around the ankle; mesh lining helps keep feet cool in warmer environments.
This internal support mechanism is anatomically engineered to provide excellent arch support and cradle the original form of the foot.
Tips
If you have narrow feet, you can totally wear large wool socks most of the time and still have plenty of room in the footbed. It is recommended to order a 1/2 size larger than your usual size.
3. JABASIC Women Best Hiking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
Pros
- Breathable Mesh
- Anti-Collision
- Slip-Resistant
Cons
- Not For Wide Feet
With a knit mesh upper design, protective cap, and heel stabilizer, you can always keep your feet dry and comfortable.
What Our Testers Say
I purchased these for my first hike and they held up to a variety of terrains over 3 miles. I had read other reviews saying they ran big but with thick hiking socks they fit me perfectly. The only time these shoes leaked was when my left foot got completely submerged in mud (see attached).
This is way better then expected and makes total sense since the top most layer is a breathable mesh. Definitely stylish and cute, and I’ve got no foot pain or blisters!!!
A slip-resistant EVA outsole with an anti-skid TPR Patch design provides traction and conforms to human body motion.
Lady hiking shoes with lace-up design for a comfortable and secure fit, these are also easy to adjust for your feet. A TPU rubber toe cap has good pressure resistance and reduces external damage.
Tips
They cleaned up well after getting very dirty and dusty.
4. KEEN Women’s Voyageur Best Hiking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
Pros
- 100% Leather
- Rubber Sole
- Traction
- Water-Resistant
Cons
- Expensive
Water-resistant suede upper repels water and performance mesh increases airflow. Keen all-terrain rubber outsole provides high-traction grip in muddy environments and on rocky surfaces; Along with 4mm multi-directional lugs for superior traction.
Built on a women-specific foot form; crafted with a dual density EVA midsole to support comfort and help reduce the overall weight of the shoe.
What Our Testers Say
Yes I have foot problems. My podiatrist strongly recommended Keen. I first bought Voyageur at a local store where I was able to try on different styles of Keens. That is when i realized that not all Keens work for me. This model is absolutely the best. The cushioning is superb and the big toe box is a godsend for people with all kinds of foot issues.
This is the only shoe I can wear all day with total comfort. I LOVE this shoe. Because the quality is high and consistently high, I can now buy them online with total confidence that they will work perfectly for me. This is my 4th pair.
External stability shank offers lightweight support for improved mobility and torsion control on uneven surfaces; cushioned collar reduces irritation and discomfort around the ankle; also reinforced eyelets work to seal the foot in place.
Tips
Gently brush with a soft bristle brush or hand towel to remove dirt. Stains can be treated by lightly rubbing with a gum eraser. Tough stains can be treated with a mixture of water and a little vinegar on a damp cloth, beware of discoloration.
5. Merrell Women’s Moab Best Hiking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
Pros
- 100% Leather
- Metal Hook
- Protective Toe Cap
Cons
- Synthetic Sole
What We Like:
What We Don’t Like:
Looking for a nice pair of hiking shoes that can give you the right support and protection while being on your adventure, look no further.
What Our Testers Say
These are by far the most comfortable hiking boots I have ever owned…I”m on my second pair! If you have foot “issues”, these are the perfect boot by Merrell. Obviously, Merrell makes many other models, but I’ve found THIS MODEL is the best for Plantar Fasciitis, arch support, heel pain, and general foot support.
These are the one and only shoe that I can wear for HOURS without my feet hurting. I’ve gone many miles without foot issues, and they have EXCELLENT breathability. I was recommended these initially by a random stranger in REI. Thank God I listened….so now I’m paying it forward because these are truly the best boots!
You’ll put these on when you get up in the morning and wear them all day, they are that comfortable. These hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis will keep your feet dry and comfortable, and if you have to face a knee-high flooded stream, all you have to do is squeeze the water out and continue hiking.
Experience out-of-the-box comfort in this ventilated hiker. With durable synthetic leather, a supportive footbed, and Vibram traction, all in a versatile package, you won’t doubt why Moab stands for Mother-Of-All-Boots.
Tips
The only adjustment I make to these boots is to add gel insoles, I get boots a half size larger to accommodate thick sox and the insoles.
Best Hiking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis Buying Guide
What Are The Best Hiking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis?
In general, hiking shoes are very important to keep your feet protected against debris as well as sharp objects that can hurt your feet while hiking, trekking, or simply walking around.
In addition to all those qualities mentioned, the best hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis are those that have exceptional comfort and heel support. An excellent hiking shoe should have exceptional comfort when used for prolonged periods of time.
These hiking shoes are being designed comfortably to cater to people who have plantar fasciitis, which means they also provide excellent comfort in terms of long-distance hikes. Especially for people with plantar fasciitis.
How Do The Best Hiking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis Work?
The best hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis can ease the pain and let you be one with nature. These shoes are sturdy yet well-cushioned and lightweight so that your foot stays well-cradled even on risky trails. With these shoes, you can also avoid blisters and foot cramps and enjoy your journey better.
These shoes are ergonomically designed, and the foot soles are designed to maintain the natural alignment of your foot.
Features To Look For In Best Hiking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
Arch Support
If your shoes lack arch support, you can face a ton of foot-related problems. You can either look for shoes that already have this built-in or use insoles in your existing pair. Shoes with removable insoles are also a good idea as you can customize this feature according to your preference.
Breathable Upper
To ensure full comfort, look for shoe exteriors that don’t trap in body heat and allow the skin to breathe. Mesh panels and linings with the same fabric in the collar and tongue can do wonders for breathability.
Heel
As plantar fasciitis is a pain mainly in the heel area, you need a shoe whose heel is deep, wide, and well-cushioned. Your heel needs all the cradling it can get so as to prevent any further pressure.
Outsole
Chunky rubber outsoles with multidirectional tread patterns allow you to keep your foot secure on any kind of terrain. As hiking trails can be unpredictable, a reliable sole lets you stay sturdy without slipping on wet and uneven surfaces.
Cushioning
Something soft for your feet to rest on is ideal because you don’t want them to be in direct contact with the ground and lose feeling in the nerves. EVA memory foam midsoles that are soft, firm, and flexible are a great option as they often conform to your foot shape and lie snug. Someone who has plantar fasciitis needs extra rigidity in the sole and cushioning of the midfoot to prevent impact on the heel, where there is pain associated with plantar fasciitis.
Soft Impact
In addition to comfort, patients with plantar fasciitis should look for a shoe that provides the least impact when the foot strikes a hard surface. For example, if you have a higher arch, the joint is at an angle that restricts the range of motion, so rigid arch support would cause further restriction. On the other hand, people with flat feet and plantar fasciitis should look for shoes with adequate arch support.
Common Questions About Best Hiking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
What shoes should I avoid if I have plantar fasciitis?
- Stiletto heels. Ultra-high heels raise the arch of your foot to an unnatural angle, destabilizing it and putting an intense amount of strain on your plantar fascia, making them some of the worst shoes for your feet.
- Flats. Flats create the opposite problem for your feet, offering little to no support for the arches of your feet, meaning that your plantar fascia isn’t able to distribute your weight and the impact of movement nearly as well. Without proper support, your arch can be further strained and flattened because of flats.
- Flip-flops. Flip flops typically have flat, skinny soles that absorb very little impact–leaving your arch to stand alone in supporting your weight and the strain of physical activity. Flip flops also have zero support for your heel, meaning it’s possible for your foot to suddenly shift if you encounter an unexpected obstacle, straining your plantar fascia or other muscles and ligaments in your foot.
- Bare feet. Without proper support, your feet are left alone to absorb the full impact of physical activity. And when the plantar fascia is already strained because of plantar fasciitis, going barefoot can be one of the fastest ways to exacerbate the condition.
Are trail shoes good for plantar fasciitis?
If you’re prone to plantar fasciitis or other foot issues, you’ll appreciate the ample cushioning in trail running shoes. The shoe’s cushioned bed provides a stable base and keeps the foot, especially the heel area, well-protected
Are soft or hard shoes better for plantar fasciitis?
If you have a fairly rigid foot with a high arch, you may need a softer shoe, since a firm surface will put a lot of localized stress on your forefoot and heel, which will translate into tension in the plantar fascia.
Does hiking cause plantar fasciitis?
Hiking is an activity that can cause the plantar fascia to become inflamed due to its repetitive nature and the added weight of carrying a backpack. If you’re a hiker with faulty foot mechanics (i.e. flat feet) you’re more at risk for developing plantar fasciitis. This is why is vital for hikers to make sure to have hiking shoes with the right support.
Is my hiking limited by plantar fasciitis?
Yes, this condition can cause aches and pains especially when there’s sustained stress applied to the feet, which is often the case on hikes. To prevent this, talk to your doctor and invest in a good pair of shoes.
Should you buy an insole for hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis?
Most shoes and boots have insoles that aren’t supportive enough to prevent you from pronating and developing plantar fasciitis. Buy a high-volume insole for a boot and a medium-volume insole for a lightweight hiking shoe.
How can I lace my hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis?
You can try various lacing techniques to reduce the pain from plantar fasciitis when hiking. Loosening up the laces in such a way that the fit is still snug while giving your foot some space to breathe is ideal.
Enjoy Your New Best Hiking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
Remember, the best hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis are those that have exceptional comfort and heel support. An excellent hiking shoe should have exceptional comfort when used for prolonged periods of time.
Now that you have gone through the top five best hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis options, you are now qualified to choose your own.
If you have any questions or comments feel free to get in touch. We are always excited to hear from you and hope you had found this information useful in your hunt for hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis.
