Plantar fasciitis is a debilitating pain in the heel of your foot. It can affect anyone, and hairstylists are no exception. A hairstylist’s job is quite demanding on their body, as they’re often on their feet for extended periods of time. The pain caused by plantar fasciitis can lead to loss of work hours and even prevent people from working at all if not properly treated.
The daily rigor of standing on feet all day, long working hours, and standing on floors that may not be the most comfortable can take a toll on your feet and the whole body. But there are a few things that can be done to help reduce or even eliminate the pain brought about by plantar fasciitis. One of these things is getting the right pair of work shoes for hairstylist with plantar fasciitis.
As a hairstylist, your feet are one of your most valuable assets in work If you suffer from plantar fasciitis, the condition can be painful and may hinder you from doing your job efficiently. The good news is that there are shoes that have been specially made for people like you who stand on their feet for long periods of time.
In this article, we’ll list several kinds of footwear that can help hairstylists with foot pain due to plantar fasciitis. We’ll also provide tips on shopping for shoes that are a good fit for those with this condition.
Let’s dive in!
In case you are in a hurry, here are our recommendations:
- Our Pick: Gravity Defyer Mighty Walk
- Best For Women: Dansko Women’s Professional Clog
- Best For Men: Skechers Sport Men’s Vigor 2.0 Trait Memory Foam Sneaker
Buyer’s guide
There are a number of factors that you need to consider when buying shoes for hairstylist with plantar fasciitis which are explained below:
Comfort & support
Whether you’re a hairstylist working on your feet all day or a beauty professional treating clients in your salon, you need comfort and support. The right type of shoes is important for any person working in the beauty industry but even more so if you suffer from plantar fasciitis.
Shoes that are comfortable and supportive may not be attractive, but they will prevent further discomfort and damage to the feet, which is why comfort should come first when picking out shoes. You should find shoes that fit snugly around your foot without causing friction or rubbing.
Make sure that the toe box is not too tight or too loose because it will cause irritation and discomfort when walking. Ensure that there is adequate room between your heel and back portion of the shoe as well as between your toes and the front end of the shoe.
A shoe that provides optimal support will be able to cushion the foot, thereby reducing strain on the heel, arch, and sole of the foot. The cushioning effect helps to lessen the impact of force on your feet as you walk around or even stand in one place for extended periods of time. At the same time, it also helps to absorb shock from sudden movements that can cause your plantar fascia ligament to tear.
Arch Support
A good pair of shoes for hairstylist with plantar fasciitis should have excellent arch support. Plantar fasciitis is a condition that usually results from overuse of the foot, particularly the arch. You will need to get a pair of shoes that provides adequate support for your feet and helps lift the arch so that it can recover.
This feature helps to distribute the weight evenly throughout the foot. It helps to relieve pressure on the heel and prevents any excessive stress on the sole of your foot. It will also help you maintain a proper stride as well as balance.
The arch support is particularly important because it helps to properly align your body. When you’re walking or standing for long periods of time, having arch support helps to alleviate pressure on your lower back, knees, and hips.
Shock absorption
For hairstylists and hairdressers who stand for long periods of time, shock absorption isn’t an option – it’s a necessity. The shock-absorbing capabilities of a shoe are a major factor that determines how comfortable it is for your feet. The shock absorption in your shoes can greatly impact the development or recovery of plantar fasciitis.
When your heel strikes the ground, the material used in the shoe will absorb some of the shocks and reduce the stress put on your foot. The more shock-absorbing power a shoe has, the better it will be at reducing pain from plantar fasciitis.
You want to find a shoe that has a thick midsole, which will act as a layer of protection between your sole and the ground. Ideally, you want to look for a shoe that has a cushioned insole or gel padding so your foot gets treated with care.
Cushioning
Cushioning is critical when it comes to finding the right shoes for hairstylist and hairdressers with plantar fasciitis. The reason why this is the case is that once a person’s plantar fascia becomes inflamed, it needs to be protected and treated in such a way that it will not become further stressed and damaged.
To accomplish this, one of the most effective ways to go about it is by wearing shoes with excellent cushioning. Cushioning will ensure that there is shock absorption between you and the hard floor surface, such as concrete or tile flooring.
The cushioning that you find in a shoe is what determines how much shock absorption it offers. When you have plantar fasciitis, you want as much cushioning as possible in your shoe. The more cushioning that a shoe has, the less chance there is of stressing the foot or causing inflammation in the heel.
Traction
The type of traction that a shoe offers is another crucial feature you need to look out for when buying shoes for hairstylist and hairdressers suffering from plantar fasciitis. It is particularly essential if you are working in a wet environment such as a salon where you have to work with water.
A good pair of hairdressers shoes for plantar fasciitis should be able to provide enough traction support on slippery floors, especially when they are made of marble or tile. The last thing you want is to slip and fall injuring your foot further and dampening your enthusiasm.
When it comes to traction, there are two types of traction: static and dynamic. Static traction is better than dynamic traction because it reduces the risk of slipping while dynamic traction increases the risk of slipping. The best shoes for hairdressers with plantar fasciitis will provide both static and dynamic traction.
Flexibility
Because your job requires a lot of moving around and movement in general, you want to find shoes that are going to provide you with enough flexibility to get around your salon without any issues.
The more flexible they are, the better off you will almost always be in terms of comfortability and your ability to move around without any issues.
You need to consider how flexible the soles of your shoes are because the sole is the part of a shoe that comes into contact with the ground when walking or running and therefore, its flexibility determines how easy it is for you to walk or run.
The more flexible a shoe is, the better it is for preventing this condition from worsening because they allow you to move freely while still providing support where necessary.
Lightweight & breathable
If your job requires you to stay on your feet for long periods, you need to make sure that your shoes are not adding extra stress to your feet. The best way to do this is by choosing a shoe that is lightweight so that you can comfortably wear it all day without feeling fatigued.
A lightweight shoe will reduce tension on the plantar fascia tendon. If you suffer from plantar fasciitis, an extra pound on your feet can feel like ten pounds! The lighter weight will also allow for greater ease of movement, which improves comfort and reduces stress on the Achilles tendon and calf muscles.
The breathable feature will ensure that your feet do not get too hot while standing in the salon all day. Make sure that the shoe materials allow air to pass through them and also wick away any moisture from your feet.
This condition may be more likely to occur in warm climates where the weather is hot and humid. This is also true for hairstylists who work in these conditions for long hours at a time. If you’re working in such conditions and wearing non-breathable shoes, your feet will quickly get sweaty and slippery.
This will make it harder for them to grip the floor, causing friction between your feet and the surface of the floor. This may lead to blisters and the aggravation of plantar fasciitis symptoms in those suffering from this condition.
10 best shoes for hairstylists with plantar fasciitis
Now that you know which factors you need to take into consideration when buying shoes for hairstylists and hairdressers with plantar fasciitis, lets dive into the list of shoes that we have picked for you after hours of research:
1. OOFOS OOmg Low shoes for hairdressers
The OOFOS OOmg Low Shoe is ideal for anyone who spends a lot of time on their feet, including hairstylist, hairdressers, nurses, police officers, and more. As a hairstylist, you are on your feet all day. You might go from standing to running around to sitting down, which takes a tremendous toll not just on your feet but on your body as well.
OOFOS footwear is designed with the shape of your feet in mind, combining arched support and impact absorption to reduce pressure and stress placed on ankles and knees.
The revolutionary OOFOAM technology has been shown to absorb 37% more impact than traditional footwear foam materials, significantly reducing muscle fatigue and joint pain after long days at work.
Even better? American Podiatric Medical Association research indicates that OOFOS can help prevent repetitive injury that often occurs when walking or standing for extended periods of time
The low-profile design features a durable upper that holds up to everyday wear, while OOfoam absorbs the shock of each step and reduces the stress on your joints—so you can be up on your feet all day without feeling it.
Pros
- Lightweight & breathable.
- Excellent shock absorption.
- High flexibility.
- Superior Comfort.
- Arch support.
Cons
- Durability Issues.
- Some may find it narrow / Not for wide feet.
2. Rockport Men’s Chranson Walking shoes for hairdressers
At Rockport, you never have to sacrifice comfort for style. Slip this walking shoe on for a comfortable ride, with a cushioned footbed featuring truTECH shock absorption technology.
The super-soft textile lining keeps your feet feeling fresh from the first step of the day to the last few. Plus, this men’s shoe is crafted with a smooth leather upper for a sleek look that goes perfectly with jeans and slacks alike
The Chranson is a comfortable men’s walking shoe that combines performance and everyday style. Made of soft, full-grain leather with mesh panels for breathability, you’ll want to take them for a walk on the wild side. A removable OrthoLite footbed helps provide all-day cushioning, while Eva cushioning in the midsole ensures shock absorption and flexibility.
The soft textile footbed offers immediate cushioning so you can enjoy all-day comfort from the moment you put them on. Keep your feet dry with the rubber outsole that helps to maintain your sturdy stride along wet and dry surfaces alike.
Packed with comfort technology to help keep you on your feet, this is an all-business shoe that offers serious stability and long-wearing comfort. The Chranson Men’s Walking Shoe from Rockport offers a casual, comfortable walking experience that can leave you feeling as good as you look.
Pros
- The rubber outsole provides excellent traction on a variety of surfaces.
- Breathable soft interior.
- Adaquate arch support.
- Trutech comfort feature absorbs shock and provides cushioning.
- The high-quality leather upper makes it highly durable.
Cons
- Not waterproof as claimed.
- Issues with laces.
3. Dansko Women’s Professional Clog shoes for hairdressers
When you’re on your feet all day, you need the support and comfort of Dansko’s iconic Professional clog. This women’s shoe is set in a leather upper and designed with the AMZ(R) and anti-fatigue rocker bottom to propel the foot forward while providing shock absorption; a padded instep collar and roomy, reinforced toe box offer added comfort.
The leather-lined foam cushioned footbed includes arch support as well as a removable/replaceable heel insert and TPU heel stabilizer; the shock-absorbing rubber outsole is textured to enhance traction.
The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) has accepted this clog into the Seal of Acceptance Program, which recognizes footwear found to promote good foot health.
This iconic clog loved by millions, delivers unbeatable all-day comfort and support allowing you to work comfortably on hard surfaces all day long.
Any issues with your feet will be instantly gone the moment you wear these boots. They help you stand straight in warm, cold, wet – literally in any weather you wear them!
Pros
- Exceptional arch support for all-day comfort.
- A padded instep collar keeps the foot in place.
- Breathable & lightweight.
- Rocker’s bottom provides magnificent shock absorption.
- APMA accepted.
- Roomy toe box.
- Multiple colors to choose from.
Cons
- Some may find it rigid/tight.
- Highly not recommended for wide feet.
4. Fila Men’s Memory Workshift Slip Resistant Work shoes for hairdressers
A reliable, supportive work shoe from FILA Memory workshift-m keeps your feet comfortable throughout your workday. This stylish and comfortable work shoe will take you from your shift to happy hour.
The Fila Men’s Memory Workshift work shoes feature an oil and slip-resistant rubber outsole for superior traction and abrasion, paired with a padded tongue and collar for comfort. While the memory foam sockliner and midsole provide additional comfort for all-day wear. Perforations in the upper allow for breathability, while a lace-up front closure allows for a relaxed fit.
The Fila Memory Workshift for men has all the performance features needed to get through your workday. These shoes are designed to be supportive, sturdy, and comfortable catering to the needs of those working in the beauty or healthcare industry or a variety of occupations including warehouses, retail, construction, hospitality, food service, and healthcare.
Pros
- Solid rubber slip-resistant outsole.
- Solid build with durable leather.
- Memory foam sockliner and midsole provide all-day comfort.
- Breathable and relaxed fit.
- Offer good shock absorption.
Cons
- Not for hot/humid weather.
- Memory foam is too thin / doesn’t last long.
5. Orthofeet Orthopedic Walking shoes for hairdressers
Orthofeet’s uniquely designed orthopedic walking shoes are engineered with innovative comfort features to help alleviate foot pain, heel pain, and arch pain.
The orthotic insole included in the shoe features anatomical arch support, a non-binding design that improves circulation, and extra foam padding that enhances cushioning and shock absorption.
Its unique construction provides optimal relief from chronic foot and heel pain, arthritis, diabetes, and foot swelling. Its biomechanical design offers unique therapeutic advantages and provides superlative comfort and pain relief for sensitive feet.
The extra-depth design, with a wide toe box and non-binding upper, allows ample room for maneuverability, while the gel cushioning insoles and ergonomic sole enhance comfort.
Engineered to ensure the ultimate in comfort, these walking shoes will make an excellent addition to your current collection. If you suffer from plantar fasciitis, these shoes will help to provide the relief you’ve been looking for.
Pros
- Anatomical arch support.
- Arch booster for enhanced support.
- Breathable and stretchable upper.
- Wide & roomy toe box.
- Superior cushioning provides extra stability.
Cons
- Low slip-resistance.
- Run smaller than the standard size.
6. KEEN Utility Men’s PTC Oxford Service shoes for hairdressers
Whether you’re a hairstylist, hairdresser or work in a restaurant, the long hours on your feet can be rough on your body. If you suffer from plantar fasciitis, consider a pair of KEEN shoes made specifically for people who are on their feet all day.
The synthetic membrane in KEEN shoes is water-resistant, easy to clean, and breathable to wick away moisture build-up during those long hours standing at a salon or serving customers. Engineered for all-day comfort on the job.
These men’s work shoes feature a slip-resistant outsole, removing the need for an additional pair of slip-resistant shoes, and eliminating an extra expense.
Added support keeps grounded during a busy workday on your feet by providing total arch support, while the memory foam cradles your foot in all-day comfort making this shoe the perfect solution for professionals that are suffering from plantar fasciitis or are looking to reduce stress on their body while at work.
Pros
- Water & slip-resistant.
- Easy to clean.
- Good arch support and shock absorption.
- Comfortable and durable for long days on feet.
- Wide toe box.
- True to size.
Cons
- Not slip-resistant as claimed.
- Not that breathable/lightweight.
7. Gravity Defyer Mighty Walking shoes for hairdressers
The Gravity Defyer Mighty Walk Shoes are designed to provide hairstylists and/or hairdressers with the comfort and support they need all day. These shoes were designed by biomechanical engineers and podiatrists to alleviate pressure on the knees, heels, and back.
This stylish walking shoe features VersoShock Technology which absorbs harmful shock from the ground up protecting your feet, knees, hips, and back.
Coupled with a tailor-made corrective orthotic that allows you to customize the fit of your shoes. These orthotics even help align bodies to perfect biomechanics, providing the wearer with full-body alignment.
These shoes also provide a roomy toe box for comfort and better blood circulation. Along with an outer layer constructed of breathable mesh, these prevention shoes feature a front rolling design that separates 28 bones, 30 joints, and over 100 muscles from harm.
With Gravity Defyer’s latest technology and style, you can relieve your foot problems and be on your feet all day in shoes that look fabulous.
Pros
- Breathable mesh provides excellent ventilation.
- Durable & long-lasting.
- Lightweight & flexible.
- Veroshock technology provides pain relief.
- Fashionable & stylish for hairstylists.
- Well-cushioned.
- Roomy toe box.
Cons
- Not waterproof.
- Can be slippery.
8. New Balance Men’s Slip-Resistant Industrial shoes for hairdressers
As a hairstylist you’re always on your feet, so you need shoes that can stand up to your hectic schedule. The New Balance 626v2 sneaker brings together a genuine leather upper with the performance of a slip-resistant outsole.
The non-marking, oil, and slip-resistant outsole feature a rubber compound that provides traction on various surfaces, including wet and oily floors. Specifically engineered to look sleek and feel comfortable, these work shoes are built to serve those on their feet all day long.
These sneakers boast an ABZORB cushioning insert for shock absorption, compression-molded EVA midsole for comfort, removable foam insert for extra support and stability, PU sloped heel to reduce pressure on feet, and a leather upper for a lightweight feel.
Plus, this shoe features exceptional breathability as well as odor and stain resistance thanks to a washable polyurethane insert with odor control.
Pros
- Excellent traction on a variety of surfaces.
- ABZORB crash pad provides exceptional shock absorption.
- Internal shank offers extra stability.
- Lightweight and breathable.
- Water and oil resistance.
- Highly durable.
Cons
- Can run small.
- Needs extra care.
9. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 Running shoes for hairdressers
The Adrenaline GTS 21 running shoes are made for people who need a perfect blend of support, cushion, flexibility, and reliability mile after sweet mile.
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 running shoe has been built with a streamlined and engineered mesh upper, which offers the structure and proven fit that we all know and trust, without the excess bulk, while 3D Fit Print offers lightweight support.
The DNA LOFT Crash Pad cushions your every footfall and works with BioMoGo DNA to adapt to your every stride. The new GuideRails support system keeps your steps stable by tracking your natural gait pattern, rather than pushing you into an unnatural stride.
Providing just the right amount of stability, these popular running shoes are built with an extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar (PDRB) to guide your body back into its natural motion path with added control.
Plus, the redesigned mesh upper gives you more room in the forefoot so you won’t get that tight, constricting toe box feeling. This Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 is also a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance.
Pros
- APMA accepted.
- Superior comfort, support, and stability.
- DNA LOFT crash pad provides excellent cushioning and shock absorption.
- Guiderails provide stability and control.
- Arch support.
- Multiple colors to choose from.
Cons
- Narrow toe box.
- Not waterproof.
10. Skechers Sport Men’s Vigor 2.0 Trait Memory Foam Sneaker shoes for hairdressers
Hairstylists spend most of their workday on their feet, working while bent over styling. This can be a pain point for many hairstylists, so choosing a shoe that is comfortable and provides more support than a traditional sneaker can have huge benefits.
The Skechers Outrun Vigor 2.0 Trait Memory Foam Sneaker is the perfect blend of comfort, durability, and a high-tech design. It is the most functional footwear you will ever slide your foot inside.
The perforated dual lite footbed provides airflow, allowing you to experience great comfort within seconds of wearing it. This shoe features gel-infused high rebound memory foam, which means breathable, and as a hairstylist with plantar fasciitis your feet can breathe and the support is great.
It offers optimal shock absorption and contours to most foot shapes due to a perforated dual lite footbed. Also features a moisture-wicking lining that helps keep you cool, clean, and dry throughout the day!
Pros
- Gel-infused high rebound memory foam provides all-day comfort.
- Exceptional breathability and ventilation.
- Supreme support and stability.
- Moisture-wicking insole.
- Excellent arch support.
- Removable memory foam inserts.
- Highly recommended for wide feet.
Cons
- Not suitable for hot areas.
- Not recommended for narrow feet.
Summary
If you were wondering whether you would need the right shoes while you are working as a hairstylist with plantar fasciitis, we have to report that yes, absolutely. A daily life where you are standing & moving around most of the time can be very hard on your feet and having the best shoes would be essential. Having the right shoes would not only help alleviate the pain but also help in recovering from this debilitating condition. You shouldn’t postpone getting the right shoes for your work as that can only bring new problems. Our pick for best shoes for hairstylists with plantar fasciitis would be Gravity Defyer Mighty Walk for women our recommendation would be Dansko Women’s Professional Clog and for men we suggest Skechers Sport Men’s Vigor 2.0 Trait Memory Foam Sneaker
