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

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 24 Supportive Running Shoe - Black/White - 9 Medium

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,240
Arch Support
Cushioning
Flexibility

Most important from
5473 reviews

Arch Support
Strikes the perfect balance between cushioning and stability, offering relief from foot aches even after all-day wear.
Cushioning
Durability is solid for indoor gym use, with a foam-like sole that provides excellent cushioning though it may wear faster on hard outdoor surfaces.
Flexibility
Combines breathability and a bit of stretch in the upper for a comfortable fit that adapts well to different foot shapes.
Fit and Size
True to size with a snug but comfortable fit that feels secure without causing pressure points.
Material
The soft, engineered mesh upper gently wraps the foot, accommodating bunions and wider toe areas without pain.

The Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 24 is a solid choice for women dealing with plantar fasciitis thanks to its strong arch and heel support. It features the Guiderails Holistic Support System that helps keep your foot aligned properly, reducing excess movement that can aggravate foot pain. The cushioning is a standout with nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam, which offers a soft yet responsive feel that adapts to your stride, providing comfort during long walks or runs.

The shoe’s upper is made of engineered air mesh, offering good breathability and a bit of stretch for a comfortable fit without feeling tight. This can be helpful if you have wider feet or need some room to avoid pressure points. The sole and outsole are made of rubber, giving durability and smooth transitions when you walk. The shoe’s weight is about 1.5 pounds, which is reasonable but might feel a bit heavier compared to ultra-lightweight options. Also, the fit comes in a standard medium width, so if you have very narrow or very wide feet, you may need to try them on to ensure the best comfort. The shoe is lace-up, allowing you to adjust tightness easily.

With the APMA Seal of Acceptance, this certified diabetic shoe reflects Brooks’ focus on foot health, which is an added benefit for those needing extra care. This shoe provides excellent support and cushioning that are crucial for plantar fasciitis relief, making it a dependable option for daily wear and light running, especially for those seeking a balance of support and comfort.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,240
Arch Support
Cushioning
Flexibility

Most important from
5473 reviews

Arch Support
Strikes the perfect balance between cushioning and stability, offering relief from foot aches even after all-day wear.
Cushioning
Durability is solid for indoor gym use, with a foam-like sole that provides excellent cushioning though it may wear faster on hard outdoor surfaces.
Flexibility
Combines breathability and a bit of stretch in the upper for a comfortable fit that adapts well to different foot shapes.
Fit and Size
True to size with a snug but comfortable fit that feels secure without causing pressure points.
Material
The soft, engineered mesh upper gently wraps the foot, accommodating bunions and wider toe areas without pain.
#2

Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 Neutral Running Shoe - Burgundy/Pink/Green - 7 Medium

Rating
8.2
Cushioning
Heel Support
Flexibility

Most important from
1772 reviews

Cushioning
The cushioning is impressive, providing a soft yet firm feel that supports the arch perfectly without being overly squishy.
Heel Support
The heel stays securely in place without slipping, contributing to a stable and straight stride despite slight overpronation.
Flexibility
The shoe’s design allows for natural foot movement with good flexibility, enhancing overall comfort throughout the day.
Fit and Size
While the width fits well for medium and wide feet, those with very skinny ankles may experience some initial discomfort from the lace area, which can be resolved by adjusting the laces and softening the collar.
Material
The breathable mesh keeps feet cool, while the lace-up design ensures a snug, customizable fit.

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 is a solid choice for women needing shoes that help with plantar fasciitis, thanks to its strong cushioning and supportive design. It offers extra soft DNA Loft v3 foam in the heel and forefoot, which provides gentle, comfortable cushioning to reduce heel pain often associated with plantar fasciitis. The shoe features neutral arch support, suitable for those who don’t require heavy correction but still need some support to ease foot strain. Heel support is reliable with a structured collar that helps keep the foot stable and protected. The midsole’s flex grooves help the foot move more naturally, which adds to comfort and prevents stiff foot motions.

Breathable mesh material keeps feet cool and the lace-up design allows for a snug fit, though those with very wide feet may want to try sizing carefully. The outsole is durable yet lightweight, offering good traction on various surfaces. This shoe is designed as a neutral running shoe rather than a specialized orthotic, so if you need very strong arch support or motion control, it might not fully meet those needs. However, it holds the APMA Seal of Acceptance and is also certified diabetic-friendly, highlighting its comfort and foot health focus.

Ideal for everyday wear, running, or walking, this shoe balances cushioning, support, and flexibility well, presenting a great option for women managing plantar fasciitis without severe foot issues.

Rating
8.2
Cushioning
Heel Support
Flexibility

Most important from
1772 reviews

Cushioning
The cushioning is impressive, providing a soft yet firm feel that supports the arch perfectly without being overly squishy.
Heel Support
The heel stays securely in place without slipping, contributing to a stable and straight stride despite slight overpronation.
Flexibility
The shoe’s design allows for natural foot movement with good flexibility, enhancing overall comfort throughout the day.
Fit and Size
While the width fits well for medium and wide feet, those with very skinny ankles may experience some initial discomfort from the lace area, which can be resolved by adjusting the laces and softening the collar.
Material
The breathable mesh keeps feet cool, while the lace-up design ensures a snug, customizable fit.
#3

Hoka Women's Bondi 9 Black/Rose Gold 9 Medium

Rating
8.2
Arch Support
Cushioning

Most important from
1830 reviews

Arch Support
Exceptional arch support effectively addresses flat feet, improving overall walking comfort and stability.
Cushioning
The cushioning provides a bouncy, cushiony support that feels like walking on the moon, dramatically reducing pain in feet, legs, and knees.

The Hoka Women's Bondi 9 is designed with comfort in mind, which is important for anyone dealing with plantar fasciitis. One of its strengths is the strong cushioning provided by the ethylene vinyl acetate sole, known for shock absorption that relieves heel pain. The engineered mesh upper offers breathability and a lightweight feel, along with a fabric lining that supports comfort throughout the day. The shoe is made with cotton on the outside, which adds to breathability but might not be as durable as some synthetic materials.

In terms of arch support, Hoka shoes are generally recognized for decent support, and the Bondi 9 continues that trend, though it may not offer the highest level of rigid arch support some might require. Heel support is solid thanks to the shoe’s structured design, helping stabilize the foot to reduce strain. Flexibility is moderate; the shoe balances support with enough movement for walking but isn't overly flexible, which suits those needing extra stability. Fit and size are true to standard, but users with wider feet might want to try before buying as the medium width can feel snug.

The Bondi 9 serves as an excellent choice for women seeking a plush, supportive shoe to help manage plantar fasciitis, especially if cushioning and heel support are key priorities. For those requiring very firm arch support or a highly flexible shoe, exploring other options might be advisable.

Rating
8.2
Arch Support
Cushioning

Most important from
1830 reviews

Arch Support
Exceptional arch support effectively addresses flat feet, improving overall walking comfort and stability.
Cushioning
The cushioning provides a bouncy, cushiony support that feels like walking on the moon, dramatically reducing pain in feet, legs, and knees.

Buying Guide for the Best Womens Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis

When shopping for women's shoes to help with plantar fasciitis, it's important to focus on features that provide support, cushioning, and stability. Plantar fasciitis is a condition that causes pain in the heel and bottom of the foot, so the right shoes can make a significant difference in comfort and pain management. Here are some key specifications to consider when choosing the best shoes for plantar fasciitis.
Arch SupportArch support is crucial for distributing pressure evenly across your feet and reducing strain on the plantar fascia. Shoes with good arch support help maintain the natural alignment of your foot, which can alleviate pain. Look for shoes with built-in arch support or the option to insert custom orthotics. If you have high arches, you may need more pronounced support, while those with flat feet might require more moderate support.
CushioningCushioning in the midsole and heel area helps absorb shock and reduce the impact on your feet. This is particularly important for those with plantar fasciitis, as it can help minimize pain during walking or standing. Shoes with ample cushioning, such as those with memory foam or gel inserts, can provide the necessary comfort. If you spend a lot of time on your feet, opt for shoes with extra cushioning to ensure prolonged comfort.
Heel SupportHeel support is essential for stabilizing the foot and reducing strain on the plantar fascia. A firm heel counter (the part of the shoe that wraps around the back of the heel) can provide the necessary support. Look for shoes with a deep heel cup and a slightly elevated heel, as these features can help distribute pressure more evenly and reduce heel pain. If you experience severe heel pain, prioritize shoes with robust heel support.
FlexibilityWhile support is important, the shoe should also offer some flexibility, particularly in the forefoot area. This allows for natural foot movement and can prevent additional strain on the plantar fascia. Shoes that are too rigid can cause discomfort and exacerbate pain. Test the shoe's flexibility by bending it at the ball of the foot; it should offer some give but not be overly bendable. If you have a more active lifestyle, ensure the shoes provide a balance of support and flexibility.
Fit and SizeA proper fit is essential for comfort and support. Shoes that are too tight can cause additional pressure on the plantar fascia, while shoes that are too loose can lead to instability. Make sure there is enough room in the toe box to wiggle your toes, and that the shoe fits snugly around the heel and midfoot. It's also important to consider the width of the shoe; some brands offer wide or narrow options to accommodate different foot shapes. If you have custom orthotics, ensure the shoes have removable insoles to accommodate them.
MaterialThe material of the shoe can affect both comfort and durability. Breathable materials like mesh or leather can help keep your feet cool and dry, reducing the risk of irritation. Additionally, high-quality materials can provide better support and last longer. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to blisters, look for shoes with soft, padded interiors. For those who need extra durability, consider shoes made from sturdy materials that can withstand regular wear.

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