The 9 Best Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis, According to Podiatrists

The exoskeletal heel counter in this shoe from Asics (Dr. Brenner recommends the brand) provides support, while additional height relieves Achilles' heel tension. It's also shock-absorbent and allows for movement in multiple planes as the foot goes through the gait cycle. It's also a favorite of Dr. Chanel Perkins, DPM, who notes, “This shoe has a very neutral fit and is almost compatible with any foot type since it will not try to correct the running gait. It’s designed with layers of cushioning for maximum comfort during runs.” For reviewers, it’s the perfect level for running.

“I started wearing the Gel-Cumulus sneakers several years ago when my podiatrist recommended them for plantar fasciitis,” wrote one reviewer. “I have had no problem with [it] since. They provide cushion, support and they are so comfortable.”

Recommended by Dr. Cunha for short distance runners, the On Cloud 2.0 Running Shoe is lightweight and designed to cushion your foot at every stage of your stride for optimal performance and support. It has a foam speedboard to promote the natural movement of the foot, a snug molded heel that ensures your foot has full freedom, and a central channel between the medial and lateral sides that allows the outsole to adapt to your foot’s movement path.

“They are really, really comfortable,” shared one Zappos customer. “The hype is true. I mainly use them for 30 to 45 minute interval HIIT training workouts and running 3 to 5 miles.”

A top pick for long-distance runners, per Dr. Cunha, the Saucony Endorphin Speed 2 Running Shoe is specially designed to create a rolling forward momentum so it can deliver a springy energy return and prevent fatigue. Its XT-900 outsole has excellent traction and durability while its supportive FormFit foam midsole cushions. Plus, it’s made from breathable and flexible materials for added comfort.

“Super light and comfy, like walking on a cloud but with support,” one reviewer said.

Cushioned and contoured in all of the right places, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 Running Shoe, which comes recommended by Dr. Cunha, wraps around your arch for comfortable and supportive road running. It features a soft-yet-responsive midsole that enforces pronation control and a removable molded insole for light underfoot padding. Together with the segmented crash pad, they create smoother transitions throughout the gait cycle. And, it even helps protect the knees by preventing excess movement.

“Awesome fitting shoes,” one runner reported. “No pain from my plantar fasciitis when I wear them.”

If the trails are where you clock in most of your miles, then you’ll need a well-tractioned and supportive sneaker like the Hoka One One Speedgoat 4. A top pick from Dr. Cunha, it has a tight grip for uphill and a secure fit for downhill, ensuring that your foot is always in place and cushioned where it needs to be. In addition to its impressive stability, it provides support to the midfoot with its foam midsole, and boasts a spacious toe box.

“I have plantar fasciitis and the Hoka's thick soles prevent heel pain,” one shopper shared. “My partner has the previous model Goat's and is wearing these hiking instead of hiking boots. We work in Yellowstone National Park in the summers and hike quite a bit in rocky terrain.”

High arches require a supportive shoe like the Brooks Ghost 13 that adheres to your foot shape while also providing the proper cushioning to alleviate plantar fasciitis pain. “This shoe offers ample support and cushioning throughout the midsole with multi-layer support for high arches,” Dr. Perkins says of the DNA Loft cushioning, which extends beyond the heel and allows for an easy transition from landing to toe-off. Its mesh construction ensures breathability as well as flexibility to encourage your foot’s natural movement.

“I bought a pair earlier this year after months of dealing with plantar fasciitis,” explained one Zappos shopper. “Since the day I put them on, my plantar fasciitis has disappeared. I want to cry typing this. If you have ever dealt with [plantar fasciitis], you know how you would dread the first hour of your day. So grateful to be free of the pain.”

The Asics Gel Kayano 28 Lite-Show Running Shoe cradles flat feet with its innovative gel cushioning technology, which anticipates and responds to the multiple planes in the foot’s gait cycle. “This shoe has a firm foam support throughout the arch,” Dr. Perkins says of the popular style. “The shoe design highlights stability for overpronation, which aligns with the biomechanics of a flat foot. In addition to being lightweight, it’s also very soft, highly cushioned and largely breathable.” It also has reflective details to create higher visibility during early morning or late night runs.

New Balance is another brand that gets Dr. Bass' vote, and these stylish running shoes combine fresh foam, cushy Ortholite insoles, and mesh uppers to ensure total comfort. The wide toe box helps stabilize, while thick midsoles provide superior cushioning and shock absorption while you run. Dr. Perkins adds, “This brand is traditionally known to accommodate a wider foot. These shoes come in standard, wide, and extra wide. This style is lightweight, comfortable and supportive for running.” It also hugs your heel for added support and security for a more confident stride.

“Most comfortable and best running shoe I have ever had,” raved one customer. “I have high arches, wide feet, and have had issues with plantar fasciitis. I have tried almost every brand—New Balance’s 1080s are the best.”

Paul Langer, DPM, a podiatrist based in Minnesota, likes Hoka One shoes, and these kicks are arguably the most cushioned shoe on the market. With molded Ortholite footbeds, internal heel counters, and a wider fit for stability, these surprisingly lightweight sneakers offer the perfect amount of toe room for a natural position of your foot. Also great? The thick sole provides shock absorption to lessen the impact on your feet, ankles, and legs. For some reviewers, it makes a great everyday shoe, especially for those who are constantly on their feet for work.

“Hoka One One has completely eliminated my heel spur and my plantar fasciitis,” one customer reported in their review. “This has been my ‘go-to shoe’ for many many years. I have tried other Hoka's but nothing feels as good as my One One's. They have terrific arch support (I also have a fallen arch, geez) and are just a sharp-looking ladies shoe.”