Plantar fasciitis is a relatively common injury in runners. Perhaps you’re one of the lucky few that has to deal with running with heel pain. In that case, you’re probably dying to get back out there and live your life as normal again.
So how do you get back to normal? Start with a better pair of running shoes. Eliminate the footwear that doesn’t offer the right protection.
But not just any running shoes will help to alleviate your pain. You’d be best served looking for a more functional shoe. Something that helps to fix the problem.
Some people will find benefit in wearing orthotic inserts to deal with sore heels while you train, but a good pair of running shoes with firm ankle and arch support could offer a more complete solution.
That said, we’ve gone through and taken the guessing work out of the equation. We went straight to the online reviews to see what others say is the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis pain. The list below doesn’t represent all of the newest, freshest sneakers. Instead, they are the ones with the highest rating by people suffering from heel pain. They say what works, we list them below.
Removable Inserts 
Arch Support Inserts
Choosing The Right Running Shoe For Heel Pain
It’s generally noted that running and other moderate exercises can put you at an elevated risk of getting plantar fasciitis. And as you probably know, once you get it, it can have a pretty severe affect on your training activities.
In fact, your physician may have already recommended that you moderate your activities in order to protect an already-inflamed fascia ligament. So if you decide to continue your running routine, it’s paramount that you at least get support that your feet will benefit from. That starts with choosing the right running shoe to protect your arches, heels, ankles, Achilles, etc.
So, which are the best running shoes for heel pain, and what factors do better footwear offer? Here are some of the basic elements you can use to select your next pair.
These may look similar, but the slightest change in your motion, combined with better support, should produce better overall gait, and results. Afterall, you don’t want to exacerbate your condition, but you do want to continue running while remaining relatively pain free.
Again, the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis will provide…
- Maximum Arch Support to protect you from strenuous activity
- Better Shock Absorption to disperse some of the force of heel striking
- Fit your feet well
- A reputable Brand of running shoe that has a history of putting out consistent quality
- Lost of positive reviews from runners WITH plantar fasciitis
Here are why other running shoes may provide less benefit…
- Constructed with thinner, less supportive materials
- Offer less or no foot and heel support, like Barefoot shoes
- Too light and flexible overall to provide the required support
It’s easy to get caught up in buying the fresh, new trainers that look cool, sleek and that every running vlog raves about. But the reality is that you’re now dealing with a moderate-to-severe condition that you are trying to fix. Functionality should come first.
So, buying an athletic shoe that supports your heels and arches should be number one on your list. Looks, second. Fortunately, however, most running shoes are marketed to look attractive. On the other hand, walking and casual shoes with good arch support look a bit more “business” than pleasure. But that’s functionality for you.
Common Complaints When Choosing Running Shoes
Finding the right shoe can be tough. As you likely already know, there is no magic solution cure for plantar fasciitis that works for everyone. Based on all the reviews, you’ll find it‘s mostly trial and error to see what eventually works for you. And like others, you may not get it right the first time. Here are some of the complaints that you’ll see in your search.
- Some brands can be more expensive than a few of the more affordable running shoes.
- They may not completely eliminate your heel pains. After all, most people land on their heels when running, which is not exactly therapeutic for heel pain.
Studies and Expert Analysis: Running With Plantar Fasciitis
Several studies over the years have been performed that link the benefit of multiple treatment options and the short term benefits that patients can receive from them. No physician, however, is likely to tell you that getting the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis is going to be the pain management therapy that is most effective for you. However, you can use your best judgment based on what is already known.
In a group study, a set of 45 athletes with no symptoms of plantar fasciitis was tested against two other groups – one of which being a set of athletes with symptomatic plantar fasciitis. Statistical comparison of range of motion showed that the group with symptomatic plantar fasciitis was significantly restricted compared to the other two groups. The study documented strength and flexibility deficits in those with plantar fasciitis.
Licensed Physical Therapist, Sean Joyce, mentions that those with mild plantar fasciitis may feel pain at the start of their activity, but that it may subside as your run continues. Also that your discomfort may be due to muscle tightness, and that you may continue running as long as you take time to work on your calf tightness, ankle mobility and hip strength.
In any case, working on strength and flexibility seems to be favorable, in addition to replacing your running shoes.
How We Rate The Running Shoes
Best Running Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis – Men
(Click Image to Enlarge – Link for Amazon Reviews)
1. Brooks Ghost 11
The Brooks Ghost 11 is rated as the best running shoe for plantar fasciitis, and for good reason. They have a high favorability score from both runners and walkers alike for reducing heel pain. These running shoes come with their segmented midsole “Crash Pad” that enable a better heel-to-midfoot transition, while also providing maximum comfort. It’s made with a waterproof mesh upper and is also optimized for forefoot flexibility. The Ghost 11 is designed for those with Medium-to-High arches.
- Has wide fitting options
- Excellent arch support
- Nice cushioning
- Good for bigger guys
- Roomy toe box if you order the right fit
- Lightweight
- Some would like a bit more cushion
- Couple packaging errors (receiving 2 left foots or different sizes)
- Few complaints of early outsole wear
2. Asics Gel Venture 5
While the Asics Gel Venture 5 has been replaced by a newer shoe, it remains far more popular than its successor – although the Gel Venture 6 remains highly popular as well. What makes the Gel Venture 5 a great running shoe is simply due to it’s favorability when it comes to running with plantar fasciitis. This running shoe is made with their rearfoot gel cushioning system for shock absorption, has trail-specific rubber outsole for durability and comes with a removable orthotic. The Asics Gel Venture 5 is a great shoe for neutral runners and those that supinate.
- Good option for wide feet
- Nice cushioning for heel
- Sufficient arch support for most
- Lightweight
- Overall comfortable for most
- Affordable price for running shoes
- Some have to size up a tad for roomier toe box
- Insole may not be as soft as some would like
- May be a bit stiff and need break in
- A few premature wear complaints
3. Salomon XA Pro Trail 3D
For those that want a little bit more of a trail running shoe, they can look to the Salomon XA Pro 3D. This shoe is engineered with a durable rubber outsole built to handle all terrains, a synthetic mesh upper and their convenient pull-and-lock lacing system. While not exactly best for road running, this comfortable shoe rates highly for hiking, backpacking, trail running, moderate street running and as a daily casual shoe.
- Solid stability
- Good tread for hiking and trail running
- Durable and sturdy
- Unique quick-lace system for easy on/off and for tension fitting Enough cushion to remain comfortable
- Solid arch support
- May feel a bit heavier than others
- Not a typical running shoe but a lot do run in them just fine
- Some just don’t like the feel
- May run a bit small
4. Asics Gel Nimbus 20
Asics engineer some of the top athletic shoes, period. And the GEL Nimbus 20 is one of the best in the line of great running shoes they’ve produced. Although this is not the newest version, it is their most popular running shoe for heel pain. The Gel Nimbus 20 has improved breathability, reduced weight, better shock absorbing design and even more cushioning properties than its predecessors. The Gel Nimbus 20 is a great shoe for neutral runners and those that supinate.
- Lightweight
- Comfortable all-around support
- Nice heel support
- Seems roomy in toe box with the right sizing
- Available in wide sizes
- Fits like previous iterations of this shoe
- Good support for heavy runners
- May have to order up a bit
- Not as cushiony as some would like
- Arch support may not be sufficient for some
- May seem narrower in toe box than previous Nimbus versions
5. New Balance 990v4
Not to be outdone by its competitors, the New Balance 990v4 continues to impress those looking for running shoes with arch support. With classic looks, a cushioned EVA midsole to protect against shock and being suitable for most foot types, this running shoe offers the total package. And with so many models to choose from, we found this to be the best New Balance shoe for plantar fasciitis. As an additional bonus, these shoes are made in the USA.
- Made in USA
- Has decent arch support
- Good fit out of the box
- Lots of overall support and feel good
- Relatively cushiony compared to some others
- Expensive
- Few require more arch support
- Not as lightweight as others
- A couple people received what appeared to be knock-offs and were returned (they posted pics in their review)
2022 Best Running Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
*Note: 2022 Shoes have less reviews for Heel Pain, but THESE have several so far.
Best Running Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis – Women
(Click Image to Enlarge – Link for Amazon Reviews)
1. Brooks Ghost 11
The Brooks Ghost 11 is the best running shoe for plantar fasciitis as per the thousands of favorable reviews that rave about the fit and overall support. This neutral running shoe is lightweight, with a waterproof mesh upper fabric and designed for those with Medium-to-High arches. On top of that, the “Crash Pad” outsole features a system of shock absorbers to cushion your step and ensure a smooth and stable ride. All Brooks shoes come with removable orthotics, in case you want to replace it with your own.
- Great arch support
- Comfortable heel cushioning
- Popular brand for plantar fasciitis sufferers
- Great for walking and running
- Several unique color options
- Lightweight
- Comfortable toe box
- Waterproof mesh upper
- May run a bit smaller than your normal size
- Some complaints of fabric tearing
2. Asics Gel Venture 6
The Gel Venture 6 is one of Asics most well-reviewed running shoes for women, only to be outdone by the Gel Venture 5. The trail specific outsole in this particular shoe is designed for maximum traction on multiple terrain types, while their Rearfoot Gel cushioning system works to absorb shock and allow for a smooth transition to midstance. The Gel Venture 6 has all the arch support you need, but also comes with a removable insert in case you want to add your own. These are the most popular Asics for plantar fasciitis, for men and women.
- Great value running shoe
- Several bright stylish options
- One of the top brands that heel pain sufferers like
- Sufficient arch support
- Very nice overall support
- Might not have the full arch support you require
- Could be a bit stiff out of the box
- Couple negative complaints of receiving defective shoes
3. Salomon X Mission 3 Trail
The Salomon X Mission 3 Trail Running shoe is yet another great shoe for heel pain. We’ve added this one to the list due to it’s rising popularity score for arch support, but also to add a little versatility. This shoe has a somewhat breathable mesh upper, an EVA midsole, a comfortable foam footbed and a rugged grip outsole for traction on slippery and uneven terrain. This shoe also comes with a unique, one-pull lacing system for absolute convenience. We’ve rated the Salomon X Mission 3 as the best trail shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Nice bright colors
- Comfortable running shoes with some cushioning
- Good amount of arch support
- Fairly popular running shoe altogether
- Good tread for walking running and hiking
- Good amount of room for the toes
- Removable insole
- May be a bit stiff during break-in period
- Might not be wide enough for some feet types
- Could use more cushion
- Not everyone likes the no-tie laces
4. Hoka One One Bondi 6
The Hoka One One Bondi is one of the shoes that has been steadily plowing its way into the mainstream running community. As far as heel pain goes, the Bondi 6 gets great reviews as a running shoe with arch support. This running shoe is lightweight, breathable and made with plush material for extra comfort. Hoka One One recommends this shoe for people with wide feet. This shoe is neutral and will probably not be a good choice if you overpronate and need more stability.
- Comfortable footbed with some cushioning
- Adequate arch support
- Comfy fit out of the box for many
- Toe box seems to be good and not too tight
- Removable insert
- Shoe price and size availability fluctuates (previous Bondi 5 has tons of favorable reviews)
- Few early wear complaints
- Arch support could be better
- A bit bulkier than others
5. Brooks Ariel 18
For those needing a running shoe for overpronation, Brooks recommends the Ariel 18. This shoe already has some positive support from the plantar fasciitis community after its predecessor was well received. It’s similar to the Ghost 11 in that it comes with a 12mm midsole drop, which puts more emphasis on your forefoot instead of your heel (making it more comfortable). But unlike the Ghost, Brooks recommends this shoe for those with Flat-to-Medium arches and who need a bit more stability and motion control.
- Snug fit around entire foot
- Wider toe box than others
- Good stability
- Nice arch support
- Good running shoe for flat feet
- Can replace insert
- Expensive
- Not enough color options
- Seems they made a few minor changes from their well rated previous version
- May be a bit too stiff
- Some complaints about premature wear in ankle padding
2022 Best Running Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
*Note: 2022 Shoes have less reviews for Heel Pain, but THESE have several so far.
Conclusion
That’s it. These are the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis, as per those that are actually using them. They aren’t necessarily the latest and greatest or the hottest new shoes on the market (since those have yet to be vetted as thoroughly). Occasionally with new models you’ll find a tweak here, an improvement there, new arch supports and/or a few other modifications that can throw off the whole dynamic.
But as mentioned before, there is no one-stop cure for plantar fasciitis. And after reading tens of thousands of reviews, we’ve seen countless people with plantar fasciitis swear by one running shoe and completely give up on others when a new model drops. You’ll have to find out what works best for your feet as you look to minimize your heel pain.
