5 Best Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis 2019, Per Podiatrists – Prevention.com

As much as running does the body good, it can also take a huge toll on your feet. In fact, it’s not uncommon for many runners to experience plantar fasciitis—a type of foot pain that occurs when the band of tissue connecting your heel bone to your toes becomes inflamed—because your heels and arches absorb a lot of impact. So when choosing the right pair of running shoes for plantar fasciitis pain, it comes down to stability and support.

How to shop for the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis

Podiatrists agree that a hybrid between motion controlled sneakers with stability features and arch support is the way to go. Here are some top-level features to keep in mind:

Responsive cushioning with arch support is important, but too much cushioning can actually backfire by having too much give, and therefore, not enough support, explains Jonathan Rouse, D.P.M., a Chicago-based podiatrist and spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association.

Medial posts and midsole support to help limit the amount of pronation. This is especially helpful for people with flatter feet who need more control when running, says Jacqueline Sutera, D.P.M., a podiatrist at City Podiatry in New York City.

Responsive cushioning for the entire foot—not just the heel and forefoot—to help absorb shock.

Removable insoles so you can add your own orthotics. Many running shoes come with insoles that provide arch support, but it’s a good idea to take them out and examine them. “If they are very thin and flat, they can be replaced with a more supportive device or a custom molded orthotic made by your podiatrist,” Dr. Sutera says.

Roomy toe box that’s wide enough to let your toes and forefoot sit flat without being crowded or tight, Dr. Sutera says.

Rigid material at the arch. This can be anything from kevlar to a piece of plastic, but as long as it has support, it should help with plantar fasciitis, Dr. Rouse says. Dr. Sutera adds that some designs on sneakers are hidden ways shoe brands add mid-foot support. “The seams and stripes that you sometimes see on sneakers, especially on the sides, help limit pronation to some extent,” she says. If you need more support and are flat footed, Dr. Sutera recommends opting for running shoes that have more dense fabric stripes sewn in on the sides for more control.

Once you find a pair of running shoes with these features, try them on before purchasing, particularly at the end of the day when your feet are swollen. Do they hurt? Are they comfortable? Are they breathable? Do they provide enough cushioning and support? “If the shoes don’t feel good in the store, they aren’t going to feel good later on. Shoes should not have a ‘break-in period’ before they are comfortable,” Dr. Rouse says.

Now that you know the basics, here are the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis pain to consider: