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10 Best Womens Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe - Almond Peach/Coconut/Purple - 7 Medium

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,398
Cushioning
Fit and Size
Heel Support

Most important from
4838 reviews

Cushioning
Offers great cushioning without the bulk of overly plush brands, delivering a lightweight and comfortable feel through every part of the foot.
Fit and Size
The wider toe box prevents blisters and allows for long-distance walking without discomfort, even with swelling during extended use.
Heel Support
Feet feel less tired and sore after long hours on them, thanks to excellent cushioning and a snug yet not tight heel fit.
Material
Lightweight yet sturdy and secure for various activities including walking, running, and gym workouts, making it easy to wear all day.
Arch Support
Ideal for those who need to add their own arch inserts due to neutral arch support, maintaining comfort while allowing customization.

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 is a well-cushioned running shoe that offers a soft and comfortable ride, making it a good option for women dealing with plantar fasciitis. It features nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning that provides lightweight yet effective shock absorption, which helps reduce stress on your heel and arch. The shoe’s midsole design promotes smooth transitions as you walk or run, which can ease foot fatigue. Arch support is neutral, meaning it suits those with normal arches rather than needing strong correction for high or low arches.

The fit is secure thanks to the 3D Fit Print, helping keep your foot stable without feeling tight. Breathable mesh material keeps your feet cool, and the durable rubber outsole offers good grip and flexibility for day-to-day activities. However, if you need firm or specialized arch support, this shoe might not provide enough targeted help. Also, it’s designed mainly for road running and gym use rather than intense trail walking or hiking.

This shoe is an ideal choice for those looking for comfortable, everyday footwear with gentle support and cushioning, especially if you have mild to moderate plantar fasciitis symptoms and prefer a neutral fit.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,398
Cushioning
Fit and Size
Heel Support

Most important from
4838 reviews

Cushioning
Offers great cushioning without the bulk of overly plush brands, delivering a lightweight and comfortable feel through every part of the foot.
Fit and Size
The wider toe box prevents blisters and allows for long-distance walking without discomfort, even with swelling during extended use.
Heel Support
Feet feel less tired and sore after long hours on them, thanks to excellent cushioning and a snug yet not tight heel fit.
Material
Lightweight yet sturdy and secure for various activities including walking, running, and gym workouts, making it easy to wear all day.
Arch Support
Ideal for those who need to add their own arch inserts due to neutral arch support, maintaining comfort while allowing customization.
#2

Brooks Women’s Ghost Max 2 Neutral Running & Walking Shoe - Ebony/Sweet Lavender/Alloy - 10 Medium

Rating
9.6
Arch Support
Cushioning
Heel Support

Most important from
2331 reviews

Arch Support
These shoes are the most comfortable I have tried, recommended by a podiatrist and offering great support.
Cushioning
The thick yet lightweight sole makes these shoes incredibly supportive and comfortable for everyday wear.
Heel Support
Super comfortable for plus size women, providing excellent support for knees, feet, and back.
Flexibility
Walking in these shoes is fantastic due to the slight rock forward from the shape of the bottom.
Fit and Size
The fit is true to size and they feel like a glove, making them worth the investment.

The Brooks Women’s Ghost Max 2 Neutral Running & Walking Shoe is engineered for those who need optimal cushioning and a smooth heel-to-toe transition. It features a nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole foam that provides excellent cushioning, ideal for those with plantar fasciitis looking for protective comfort and ease of movement. The shoe also boasts a broad base and raised sidewalls, enhancing stability and fit, which can be beneficial for foot health and reducing pain associated with plantar fasciitis.

Its fabric is 100% synthetic and the sole is made of rubber, ensuring durability and effective support. Furthermore, the shoe is inclusive of various foot shapes and can accommodate orthotics, which is a positive aspect for those needing additional support. The fit and size are designed to be comfortable, but some users may need to adjust for personal preference. As a certified carbon neutral product, it’s also an environmentally conscious choice.

A potential drawback is that it requires hand washing, which might be less convenient for some users. This shoe is ideal for runners and walkers prioritizing cushioning and stability, making it a strong contender for managing plantar fasciitis.

Rating
9.6
Arch Support
Cushioning
Heel Support

Most important from
2331 reviews

Arch Support
These shoes are the most comfortable I have tried, recommended by a podiatrist and offering great support.
Cushioning
The thick yet lightweight sole makes these shoes incredibly supportive and comfortable for everyday wear.
Heel Support
Super comfortable for plus size women, providing excellent support for knees, feet, and back.
Flexibility
Walking in these shoes is fantastic due to the slight rock forward from the shape of the bottom.
Fit and Size
The fit is true to size and they feel like a glove, making them worth the investment.
#3

Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 24 Supportive Running Shoe - Coconut/Black/White Sand - 7.5 Medium

Rating
9.3
Heel Support
Fit and Size

Most important from
2103 reviews

Heel Support
Excellent stability and heel support, reducing ankle and knee pain.
Fit and Size
True to size with no break-in period required.

The Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 24 Supportive Running Shoe appears to be a solid choice for those dealing with plantar fasciitis, thanks to its robust features. One of its major strengths is the nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning, which provides lightweight and plush comfort. This is crucial for alleviating the pain associated with plantar fasciitis. Additionally, the shoe offers a GuideRails Holistic Support System, which helps in keeping excess movement in check, providing necessary stability and heel support.

The engineered air mesh upper enhances breathability and offers a comfortably accommodating fit, which helps in reducing the strain on your feet during long periods of wear. The shoe is also a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has received the APMA Seal of Acceptance, which adds credibility to its support and comfort features. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. The shoe's outer and sole materials are both rubber, which may not be as durable or flexible as other materials, potentially affecting longevity and comfort. The care instructions specify hand wash only, which might be inconvenient for some users.

If you are looking for a shoe with substantial arch and heel support, and cushioning tailored to help with plantar fasciitis, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 is worth considering, though be mindful of the material and sizing aspects. Some users might find the fit and size not as accommodating if they have wider feet or specific sizing needs.

Rating
9.3
Heel Support
Fit and Size

Most important from
2103 reviews

Heel Support
Excellent stability and heel support, reducing ankle and knee pain.
Fit and Size
True to size with no break-in period required.

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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