Plantar fasciitis can be a frustrating and painful condition, especially for runners. The right pair of running shoes can dramatically reduce pain, promote healing, and prevent recurrence by offering the right blend of support, cushioning, and biomechanical alignment. Below is a detailed guide on what to look for when shopping, followed by in-depth reviews of best running shoes for plantar fasciitis.
What to Look for in Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
- Structured Arch Support: Plantar fasciitis results from strain and inflammation in the plantar fascia ligament, so shoes should provide firm yet adaptive arch support to reduce tension. Look for features like engineered arch structures, stability posts, or built-in orthotics, especially if you have flat feet or high arches.
- Heel Cushioning and Shock Absorption: Proper cushioning in the heel helps reduce impact forces that irritate the plantar fascia with every step. Look for shoes that include features such as gel inserts, high-rebound foam, or meta-Rocker designs. A beveled or rounded heel also helps promote smooth transitions and reduce heel strike stress.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: The heel-to-toe drop is the height difference between the heel and forefoot of a shoe. A moderate drop (6–10 mm) is generally ideal for plantar fasciitis, as it reduces strain on the Achilles tendon, relaxes the plantar fascia, and supports forward movement better than zero-drop or high-drop shoes.
- Stability Features (for Overpronators): Runners who overpronate (roll inward excessively) place more strain on the fascia. If you’re an overpronator or have flat feet, look for stability features that guide the foot through a proper gait cycle, improving alignment and reducing plantar stress.
- Plush Cushioning With Responsiveness: While cushioning is essential, you don’t want shoes that are so soft they feel unstable. Look for responsive cushioning that offers a blend of softness and energy return. This helps absorb shock while propelling you forward with less fatigue.
- Wide Toe Box and Proper Fit: Shoes that are too tight can constrict movement and create forefoot stress, while overly loose shoes can increase instability. A roomy toe box allows the toes to splay naturally and helps reduce foot tension. Choose brands that offer multiple width options (e.g., New Balance, Hoka, Saucony).
- Supportive Heel Counter: The heel counter is the rigid area around the back of the shoe. A supportive, snug heel counter locks the heel in place, reducing movement that can worsen plantar fascia pain.
Best Overall for Plantar Fasciitis: Brooks Ghost 17 Running Shoes
Pros
- Enhanced cushioning in heel and forefoot
- Soft yet responsive ride
- Available in four widths
- Breathable and comfortable upper
Cons
- Slightly narrow toe box
- Slightly heavier than previous model
Brooks’ Ghost 17 Running Shoe continues its legacy as a dependable daily trainer, now with even more cushioning underfoot thanks to added nitrogen‑infused DNA Loft v3 foam—3 mm more in the forefoot and 1 mm in the heel. This results in a smooth, plush ride ideal for those dealing with heel stress from plantar fasciitis. Its breathable mesh upper and padded collar enhance comfort, making it suitable for both therapeutic walks and everyday runs.
We love that this shoe comes in four widths, so it’s easy to get the right fit. Despite the shoe’s slight weight increase from the previous model, most appreciate the added comfort and support that make longer runs and recovery days more manageable. Also available in men’s sizes.
Best for Neutral Runners: Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 Running Shoes
Pros
- Soft, plush cushioning with gel-enhanced impact absorption
- Springy feel with good ventilation
Cons
- Not suited for overpronation
- Less ground feel
Asics’ Gel-Nimbus 27 Running Shoe prioritizes shock absorption with abundant heel gel and soft midsole, delivering a springy, cushioned ride that’s especially helpful for neutral or supinator runners. The Nimbus offers a luxurious, soft underfoot experience, which is ideal when combating heel pain and fatigue.
When testing this pair, we were impressed with its outstanding comfort and impact protection. Its signature GEL heel cushioning and FF BLAST+ foam deliver a cloud-like ride, perfect for easing stress on the plantar fascia.
Ideal for recovery runs, long walks, or daily wear, the Nimbus feels soft, smooth, and supportive underfoot. While it doesn’t have stability features for overpronation, it’s an excellent choice for neutral runners or those with high arches needing relief from heel pain. Also available in men’s sizes.
Best Lightweight: Hoka Mach 6 Running Shoes
Pros
- Lightweight and breathable
- Responsive cushioning with rocker sole
- Great for speed and daily training
Cons
- Slightly narrow and snug fit
- Less cushioned than max support models
Hoka’s Mach 6 Running Shoe is a lightweight performance trainer that delivers impressive cushioning and responsiveness. It uses a foam that feels ultra-soft underfoot while still offering the bounce needed for tempo runs or long distances. Though technically a neutral shoe, we found that it provides stellar midfoot support for many runners with plantar fasciitis, particularly those who don’t overpronate.
With a moderate 5 mm drop and Hoka’s signature rocker sole, the Mach 6 encourages a smooth transition from heel to toe. This helps reduce impact forces that can aggravate the plantar fascia. However, those seeking plush, max-cushioned support may find the Mach 6 a bit too minimal—especially during recovery phases. Also available in men’s sizes.
Best for Heel Strikers: Saucony Triumph 23 Running Shoes
Pros
- Plush cushioning
- Wide support platform
- Supportive heel counter
Cons
- Potentially less agile for faster workout
Saucony’s Triumph 23 is a daily trainer designed to soften heel strikes—and for good reason. The high heel-to-toe drop shifts weight forward, taking pressure off the heel where plantar fascial strain often originates. Combined with a lush midsole, the ride is cushy and forgiving.
The engineered mesh upper, padded collar, and stable base lend comfort and confidence during easy to mid‑distance runs. We love this shoe for heel strikers who are managing plantar fasciitis in recovery or base miles. Also available in women’s sizes.
Best Cushioned: New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14 Running Shoes
Pros
- Plush yet stable cushioning
- Available in four widths
- Well-balanced ride
Cons
- May feel too plush for some
New Balance’s Fresh Foam X 1080v14 offers enveloping cushioning that adapts to each foot, cradling the arch and reducing plantar loading. The ride is both springy and supportive, so it strikes the sweet spot between softness and structure for many dealing with foot pain.
Its size inclusivity is a standout; whether you need a narrow, wide, or somewhere in between, you can get a tailored fit. We also love the lightweight, breathable upper that keeps our feet cool and comfortable. Also available in men’s sizes.
Best for Stability: Asics Gel‑Kayano 32 Running Shoes
Pros
- Plush yet responsive cushioning
- Adaptive stability via 4D Guidance and flared platform
- Breathable, comfortable upper
Cons
- Heavier than neutral trainers
- Stability may feel too pronounced for neutral runners
Asics’ Gel‑Kayano 32 is a time-tested stability running shoe that delivers comfort and support without feeling clunky. The thick foam stack paired with gel technology softens heel strikes—ideal for plantar fascia comfort—while stability features guide foot alignment subtly enough to feel natural.
We found that the lightweight, stretchy upper wraps the foot like a sock to reduce pressure hotspots. While it’s heavier, this model offers reliable structure and protective cushioning, especially valuable on longer runs where foot fatigue exacerbates pain. Also available in men’s sizes.
Best for Overpronators: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 Running Shoes
Pros
- Soft, responsive cushioning
- Good stability
- Breathable, flexible upper
- Excellent traction and durability
Cons
- Hefty feel
- Tight fit in the forefoot
Brooks’ Adrenaline GTS 24 Running Shoe is a superb stability trainer for runners battling plantar fasciitis. Its nitrogen‑infused DNA LOFT v3 foam brings plush, shock‑absorbing cushioning that cushions impact at the heel, which is often a painful hotspot for plantar fascia sufferers. At the same time, the GuideRails system delivers gentle but effective medial support that helps maintain proper arch alignment and prevent excessive pronation, which can exacerbate strain on the plantar fascia.
We love that the breathable engineered mesh upper complements the midsole by offering a comfortable, well‑contoured fit that keeps your stride stable and irritation-free over longer distances. Overall, for those needing stability and comfort to manage plantar fasciitis—and who don’t mind a sturdier, hefty feel—this shoe is a reliable go-to option. Also available in men’s sizes.
Also see: Best Running Shoes for Shin Splints
Why Trust Us
Running coach, avid runner, and fitness writer Christine Luff is an RRCA-certified running coach and ACE-certified personal trainer. Founder of the website Run for Good and author of the book Run for Good: How to Create a Lifelong Running Habit, she coaches runners, from beginners to advanced, who are training for races, from 5Ks to marathons. She has a history of plantar fasciitis and credits wearing supportive running shoes and replacing them frequently with keeping her symptom-free.
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