GET THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL PACKING LIST! (Yes. It's editable, printable & FREE)

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

 

If you suffer from plantar fasciitis then you know that shoes with good arch support are absolutely essential especially when you plan to spend long hours on your feet walking.

Don’t let heel pain ruin your trip! We’ve got an incredible list of the best shoes for plantar fasciitis according to our readers. You asked and they shared their top recommendations. Find out what they are!

 


Best Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis


 

 

Table Of Contents

 

 

Travel Fashion help! A Reader Asked: I’m going to Ireland, London, and Paris for 5 weeks. I’m looking for advice on a shoe that can go with shorts and skirts. I also have plantar fasciitis and will be doing a great deal of walking. Can you please recommend the best shoes for plantar fasciitis?

 

Start by reading these general tips on choosing the best shoes for travel:

 

 

We get numerous questions with travelers in similar situations. They want to know what shoes are best for plantar fasciitis so we asked our readers for their recommendations. This article features all their top choices along with their best tips.

As plantar fasciitis (or PF) sufferers know, choosing shoes that are comfortable and relieve (or don’t worsen) heel pain can be difficult. And there’s nothing worse than having sore feet while traveling! It can ruin a trip.

Because many of our readers suffer from this painful foot problem, we reached out to our readers for their first-hand recommendations for the best plantar fasciitis shoes.

 

Tip: Packing Cubes make the perfect shoe bags to protect your luggage from dirty shoes! 

 

 

What are the brands our readers rated as the best shoes for plantar fasciitis?

 

This list includes everything from sandals, sneakers, hiking shoes, and flats, so you’re sure to find something that fits your style!

 

 

Here’s a quick list of the best shoe brands for plantar fasciitis:

 

 

You can read more of these brands and specific styles our readers recommend below:

 

 

best-shoes-for-plantar-fasciitis

Vionic Spark Minna Ballet Flat

 

Best Recommended Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis: Vionic

 

When we asked our readers to recommend the best shoes for plantar fasciitis, Vionic was definitely the top choice. They overwhelmingly mentioned Vionic as their favorite brand, saying they could walk for hours and hours with their feet feeling great. They singled out Vionic’s flip-flops, flats, and even a heeled boot!

Vionic was founded by a podiatrist who wanted to create comfortable shoes, especially for people with PF. The brand continues to come out with more and more attractive footwear options that are also comfortable for long days of walking.

 

Vionic is also featured as one of the best sandals for travel!

 

Loved for:

We love Vionic for their balance of comfort with fashion – the Rest Kirra sandals are our latest shoe obsession! Our readers rated it as on of the most comfortable walking sandals too, read it here!

 

Readers said:

  • I wear sandals and even the flip-flops and can walk and walk and walk.
  • I have the Vionic sandals and Dansko sneaker. I walked 10+ miles/day with both of them last summer in London, Lisbon, and Madrid. I also have plantar fasciitis and these saved me from aching feet after long days walking and sightseeing.
  • I’ve worn my Vionic Tide II flip flops all over Greece, Croatia, and Fiji and they are the best! They are all that I can really wear so my feet don’t hurt… As long as you’re not rock climbing, you’ll LOVE them!
  • After discovering Vionics my other shoes barely get any love. Having no foot pain after a long day is amazing. I have 2 pairs of the Upton ankle booties, Surin ballet flats, and the Caballo flat in the black snake.
  • I love my Vionics! I have PF and fallen arches, and Vionic fits my foot well and offers good arch support.

 

 

best-shoes-for-plantar-fasciitis

Skechers Go Step-Seashore

 

Best Sneakers for Plantar Fasciitis: Skechers

 

The GOwalk line isn’t just slip-ons any more—they include lace-up boat shoes, sneakers, flats, and more, in tons of colors and patterns. The styles are continuously evolving, which is why we think they make for some of the best shoes for plantar fasciitis.

 

Find more of our readers’ top picks for the best travel shoes here!

 

Loved for:

Readers love that Skechers Go Step-Seashore are super light and have a thick but bouncy sole that cushions the feet, allowing you to walk for hours in total comfort!

 

Readers said:

  • I have plantar fasciitis and live in Skechers GOwalks when I travel. They go with shorts, skirts, dresses, or pants. I waterproof them and they dry out very quickly if they do get wet. And so comfortable!
  • Co-sign the Skechers: bought a pair for my first trip to Paris this February … they did not disappoint.
  • I rely totally on my Skechers when traveling. Walking so much on hard surfaces means you need as much cushioning as you can get. I just survived 2 weeks in Prague/Berlin/London with non-stop walking on hard pavements and cobblestones. No sore spots or blisters.

 

 


best-shoes-for-plantar-fasciitis

Dansko Vera Sandal

 

Best Dress Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis: Dansko

 

The Pennsylvania-based company Dansko is more than just clogs! Recently they’ve been coming out with lots of new styles of footwear that are very high quality and comfortable. TFG readers love their sandals and sneakers for hours of exploring new destinations, ranking them as some of the best shoes for plantar fasciitis.

 

Find out why Dansko is one of the most fashionable shoes for women over 60!

 

Loved for:

The Vera sandal shown above seamlessly merges fashion and functionality together, with a supportive sole and a simple yet classy appearance. The ankle straps and gorgeous leather material allow these to work from day to night as well!

 

Readers said:

  • I have a great pair of Dansko that I could walk miles in.
  • I love love love my Dansko Honor sneakers. (Not the clogs for sightseeing, though; you’ll turn your ankle.)
  • I have the Dansko sneaker and the Vionic sandals. I walked 10+ miles/day with both of them last summer in London, Lisbon, and Madrid. I also have plantar fasciitis and these saved me from aching feet after long days of sightseeing.

 

 


best-shoes-for-plantar-fasciitis

Keen Whisper

 

Best Athletic Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis: Keen

 

Do Keen make some of the best shoes for plantar fasciitis? Our readers say YES. This was the third most mentioned brand. Aside from athletic sandals, keen also offers some cute and casual flats and sneakers. PF sufferers say that those shoes make their feet happy, and what else could you ask for while traveling?

 

Keen Sandals are some of the best womens outdoor sandals you can buy!

 

Loved for:

Keen’s most known for its recognizable adventure sandals like the Keen Whisper shown above. If you’ll be hiking in a warm destination, these are perfect! Their rugged, outdoorsy hiking sandals are great in wet terrain and rainy weather, too.

 

Readers said:

  • Keen Whispers have taken me through glaciers, mountains, Paris streets, and more!
  • I like Keen for their Mary Jane-style walking shoes!
  • For plantar fasciitis, my doctor gave me the choices…1. Surgery, 2. Cortisone shot, or 3. Keens. Guess what I chose?

 

 


best-shoes-for-plantar-fasciitis

 Fitflop Superskate Loafer

 

Best Flats for Plantar Fasciitis: Fitflop

 

TFG readers mentioned Fitflops “microwobbleboard” insole technology, which is especially loved by plantar fasciitis sufferers. Fitflop’s shoes help accentuate the rolling motion of the foot from the heel to the toes, which supports the arch, cushions the foot and gently stretches the plantar fascia. This genius technology makes your feet feel good all day and ready for the next adventure!

 

Traveling to a hot weather destination? Read our full list of the best beach sandals–it includes Fitflops too!

 

Loved for:

We love the look of the Superskate Loafer shown above without socks, but it’s not always the best option if you want to keep your feet comfy and fresh. Instead, pack a pair or two of these no-show shoe liners to wear with your low-cut shoes.

 

Readers said:

  • My favorite right now–fashion-statement and feel-wise–are a pair of the Superskate loafers. Three cheers for the super skates!
  • I swear by my Fitflops Sandal for my plantar fasciitis relief. They have non-flip flop styles that can work with skirts. Since I started enjoying their ‘Microwobbleboard’ technology, I haven’t had a twinge.

 

 

best-shoes-for-plantar-fasciitis

Naot Sabrina Flat

 

Best Sandals for Plantar Fasciitis: Naot

 

The Israeli brand Naot is getting more and more popular for their comfort and increasingly stylish footwear.

Fun fact: Naot is Israel’s leading shoe manufacturer! Naot footwear is high quality and offers creative and earthy boots, clogs, flats, and sandals. Our readers especially like their Mary Jane-style shoes like the Matai Flat. (Unfortunately, Naot shoes come in full sizes only!)

 

The Sabrina sandal hits all the right marks, and continues to be a TFG favorite. Here are more comfortable walking sandals that are stylish, too!

 

Loved for:

The Naot Sabrina sandal has been a TFG favorite for years! It’s cute, doesn’t look like a comfort shoe, can be dressed up or down, is comfortable, and will last ages. (The only downside is that their shoes come in full sizes only.)

 

Readers said:

  • Naot makes a comfy and cute Mary Jane that I wore with jeans, capris, skirts, and dresses when I traveled to London and Paris years ago. They became one of my favorite shoes and I recently bought the same shoes to replace my old pair when they finally wore out.
  • I have custom orthotics and love my Naots for their removable insoles!
  • The Naot Rongo is expensive but worth it!
  • For plantar fasciitis, I strongly suggest sandals by Naot or Keen. Look for the sandals with removable insoles. Both shoes have insoles that will conform to your foot.
  • Naots are the best for plantar fasciitis. They kept me on my feet when walking became nearly impossible.

 

 

 

best-shoes-for-plantar-fasciitis

ECCO Soft VII Sneaker

 

Best Comfortable Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis: Ecco

 

From performance hikers to city styles, Ecco boots, shoes, and sandals are made for any travel destination, including outdoor adventures in the concrete jungle or the wilderness.

ECCO uses advanced construction techniques and continuous exploration in materials science to develop the most comfortable shoe.

 

Ecco is the top one among the twenty brands our readers voted as the most comfortable and cute walking shoes for travel!

 

Loved for:

With ECCO, you know you can count on superior fit, durability, support, and flexibility for all-day comfort.

 

Readers said:

  • This pair has a wonderful insole: firm but cushioned, and they get more comfortable and shape around your foot as you wear it.
  • I have had Plantar Fasciitis and I am terrified of having it come back. These shoes give all the arch support I need and protect my heels without buying additional orthotics.
  • Love love love these shoes!

 

 


best-shoes-for-plantar-fasciitis

Clarks Saylie Moon Sandal

 

Best Walking Sandals for Plantar Fasciitis: Clarks

 

British-based brand Clarks are well-known for having comfortable shoes of all types. It’s no surprise TFG readers loved them for helping with heel pain and keeping feet comfortable after full days of walking! Clarks offers a full range of styles, including everything from sneakers, boots, wedges, sandals, and more, making them some of the best shoes for plantar fasciitis.

 

Loved for:

If you are looking for the most comfortable wedge sandals, look no further than Clarks!

 

Readers said:

  • I have a pair of Clarks sandals that I wore everywhere! So comfy. You can’t go wrong.
  • My favorite pair of sandals was from Clarks. I wore them all over Italy. Plus, they were super cute—I got lots of compliments. I wore them until they started falling apart and wished I’d bought more of the same pair before they stopped making that style!
  • I love Clarks for walking a lot. I have very princess-y feet and they never give me so much as a red spot. I love them!

 

 


best-shoes-for-plantar-fasciitis

OOFOS Ooriginal Thong

 

Best Slippers for Plantar Fasciitis: Oofos

 

Some readers mentioned Oofos, which is a recovery shoe, as the best shoes for plantar fasciitis. So after exploring Rome for hours, slip into some Oofos while lounging in your hotel to rejuvenate your feet for tomorrow!

 

Check out their other styles on Amazon!

 

Loved for:

They are engineered to help feet recover by absorbing shock and reducing stress on your feet after a long day, which is ideal for people with plantar fasciitis.

 

Readers said:

  • I recommend taking along a pair of Oofos. I keep a pair by the bed and never walk barefoot. These might save your feet one day on your trip.
  • Get some Oofos flip flops for after hiking walking. They are life changing. I sprained my ankle and fractured my foot and deal with plantar fasciitis.

 

 

best-shoes-for-plantar-fasciitis

Birkenstock Gizeh Thong

 

Best Arch Support for Plantar Fasciitis: Birkenstock

 

In recent years, Birkenstocks have again become popular…but did they ever really go out of style?

This nearly 250-year-old German footwear company uses high-quality materials and their shoes last a long time. They mold to your feet after wearing and eventually fit like a glove, which is why they are some of the best pairs of shoes for plantar fasciitis.

 

Loved for: 

Some new, slightly more attractive styles, like the Gizeh, are popular with TFG readers.

 

Readers said:

  • For PF, Birkenstocks have the needed arch support.
  • Check out our Birkenstock Gizeh review and find out why it’s a must-have travel sandal!

 

 

Product Comparison Chart

 

Still undecided? Here’s a quick overview of these shoes for plantar fasciitis:

BRAND / MODEL REVIEW RATING PRICE
Vionic Spark Minna Ballet Flat "I love my Vionics! I have PF and fallen arches, and Vionic fits my foot well and offers good arch support." Check Price
Skechers Go Step-Seashore “Readers love that Skechers Go Step-Seashore are super light and have a thick but bouncy sole that cushions the feet, allowing you to walk for hours in total comfort!” Check Price
Dansko Vera Sandal “The Vera sandal shown above seamlessly merges fashion and functionality together, with a supportive sole and a simple yet classy appearance. The ankle straps and gorgeous leather material allow these to work from day to night as well!” Check Price
Keen Whisper “If you'll be hiking in a warm destination, these are perfect! Their rugged, outdoorsy hiking sandals are great in wet terrain and rainy weather, too.” Check Price
 Fitflop Superskate Loafer “We love the look of the Superskate Loafer shown above without socks, but it’s not always the best option if you want to keep your feet comfy and fresh.” Check Price
Naot Sabrina Flat “The Naot Sabrina sandal has been a TFG favorite for years! It’s cute, doesn’t look like a comfort shoe, can be dressed up or down, is comfortable, and will last ages.” Check Price
ECCO Women's Soft 7 Sneaker “From performance hikers to city styles, Ecco boots, shoes, and sandals are made for any travel destination, including outdoor adventures in the concrete jungle or the wilderness.” Check Price
Clarks Saylie Moon Sandal “Clarks offers a full range of styles, including everything from sneakers, boots, wedges, sandals, and more, making them some of the best shoes for plantar fasciitis." Check Price
OOFOS Ooriginal Thong “Some readers mentioned Oofos, which is a recovery shoe, as the best shoes for plantar fasciitis.” Check Price
Birkenstock Gizeh Thong “In recent years, Birkenstocks have again become popular…but did they ever really go out of style? Some new, slightly more attractive styles, like the Gizeh, are popular with TFG readers.” Check Price

 

 

best-shoes-for-plantar-fasciitis

 

Super Feet Premium Insoles

 

Best Shoe Inserts for Plantar Fasciitis: Superfeet insoles

 

Don’t forget about insoles! Many readers raved about Superfeet insoles in particular. They stabilize the feet, which helps reduce some of the stress on the plantar fascia. The company website claims to not just remedy plantar fasciitis, but prevent it!

Readers love that these insoles come in various colors and levels of support. Consider switching out the insoles in your current favorite shoes with Superfeet and you may find a whole new level of comfort and relief! Insoles can turn regular shoes into the best shoes for plantar fasciitis.

 

Readers said:

  • I’ve found that if a hiking boot fits good everywhere else, then I can add SuperFeet insoles (or orthotics) for arch support.
  • I use SuperFeet inserts in them both and they really help. They were recommended by my podiatrist.
  • Get Superfeet inserts, as long as the insoles in the boots are removable. I put these into my running shoes and they helped my plantar fasciitis heal quickly.
  • I use Superfeet to replace the insoles in anything from flats to sneakers!
  • I had the best luck surviving two weeks in Prague using green Superfeet insoles. I’ll spend 7 weeks in Portugal, Spain, and France this summer so will switch my Superfeet insoles to my Superga sneakers.

 

Just a note: if your shoe doesn’t have removable insoles, you might not be able to use Superfeet—or you’ll have to buy ½ size larger shoe to accommodate the Superfeet.

 

 

How to choose the right shoe if you have plantar fasciitis?

 

  • Look for the sandals with removable insoles and heel and arch support.
  • Consider taking an anti-inflammatory pain reliever the night before big walking days.
  • Europe’s cobblestone streets don’t work well with high heels. Try low wedges, an ankle or motorcycle boot, a low hiking shoe with added heel cushioning, or a soft moccasin.
  • Rely on public transit to reduce the amount of walking. Many popular destinations, especially in Europe, have safe, excellent transit.
  • Consider getting customized insoles or orthotics from a footwear store.
  • Remember: quality shoes and insoles may be expensive, but they’re worth it!

 

Tip: Most travelers agree that three is the magic number when it comes to packing shoes. Learn more about how to create a capsule wardrobe with just three pairs of shoes!

 

 


Keep in mind that your destination may require specific types of shoes. Read these guides on how to choose shoes for Europe’s cobblestone streets and how to choose the best travel shoes in general!

What do you think are the best shoes for plantar fasciitis? Share in the comments!


 

Check out our entire category on travel shoes for more tips, including:

 


 

LIKED THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!

best-shoes-for-plantar-fasciitis

 


We hope you liked this post on the best shoes for plantar fasciitis. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!