10 Best Walking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis 2026 in the United States

The Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 24 is a strong choice for those dealing with plantar fasciitis, thanks to its excellent arch and heel support. The shoe features Brooks’ Guiderails holistic support system, which helps keep your foot’s motion natural and controlled, reducing strain on the plantar fascia. Its nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning offers plush yet lightweight comfort, making each step feel soft without sacrificing responsiveness. Heel support is solid, which is essential for relieving heel pain typical of plantar fasciitis.

Fit-wise, the shoe comes in a narrow width, making it best suited for people with slimmer feet. The engineered air mesh upper provides a good balance of breathability and stretch, offering a comfortable and secure fit. The outsole and midsole design promote smooth transitions during walking, which helps reduce impact stress. In terms of flexibility, the shoe bends well enough to support a natural walking motion without feeling stiff. Durability is good too, with rubber materials used for both the sole and outer parts, promising a long-lasting wear experience.

One consideration is the narrow fit, which might not accommodate wider feet comfortably. Also, while the cushioning is soft, some users who prefer firmer support might find it too plush. However, the shoe’s certifications—PDAC A5500 for diabetic use and the APMA Seal of Acceptance—add reassurance about its suitability for foot health. The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 provides well-rounded support, cushioning, and durability tailored to help those with plantar fasciitis, especially if you have narrow feet and want a shoe that promotes comfort over long walks.

The Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 25 is designed to offer excellent support and comfort, making it a solid choice for those dealing with plantar fasciitis. Its key strength lies in the GuideRails holistic support system, which helps keep your foot moving naturally while controlling excess motion—a big plus for arch and heel support. The shoe’s cushioning uses Brooks’ nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam, delivering soft yet responsive padding that reduces impact on your feet during walking. This cushioning combined with a smooth transition system means your steps feel less jarring and more comfortable over time.

The fit is secure thanks to a breathable mesh upper and flexible collar, providing both stability and enough flexibility to move naturally. For durability, the rubber outsole is sturdy enough for regular walking, helping the shoe hold up well over time. While this shoe offers solid support and cushioning, it might feel a bit structured for those who prefer a very minimalist or highly flexible shoe. It’s designed primarily for medium-width feet, so those needing wider options might need to check sizing carefully. The Adrenaline GTS 25 balances support, cushioning, and fit in a way that’s especially beneficial for managing plantar fasciitis during walking, making it a dependable choice if you want comfort and stability in your daily steps.

The New Balance Women's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer is a solid choice for those dealing with plantar fasciitis thanks to its cushioning and durability features. Its ABZORB midsole provides good impact absorption, helping to reduce strain on your feet with each step. The injection-molded EVA foam makes the shoe feel lightweight while still offering enough padding underfoot. The NDurance rubber outsole adds durability, especially in areas that experience the most wear, which means these shoes are built to last through regular use.

The leather upper contributes to a sturdy fit and decent heel support, which is important for stabilizing your foot and minimizing pain. Because this model comes in a wide width, it can accommodate those who need extra room, which is helpful if your feet tend to swell or require more space. However, the flexibility of the shoe is moderate, so if you prefer a very flexible sole that moves naturally with your foot, this might feel a bit stiff.

While the arch support is present, it might not be as pronounced as specialized orthopedic shoes designed specifically for plantar fasciitis. If you need strong, targeted arch support, you might want to add custom insoles. These shoes blend comfort, durability, and support well for everyday walking and casual use, making them a dependable option for plantar fasciitis sufferers who want reliable cushioning and a durable build.