Are you suffering from plantar fasciitis? Do you want to keep running, but you are not certain what running shoes would suit your condition? If you have answered affirmatively to either of these two questions, you have come to the right article. In the following paragraphs, we will guide you through selecting the best running shoes for a person who suffers from plantar fasciitis.
We encourage you to read the entire article so that you can benefit from the informative and easy-to-comprehend material.
Here’s a comparison table of some of the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis across popular brands:
| Brand | Model | Key Features | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brooks | Adrenaline GTS | Balanced support, cushioning, and stability; GuideRails technology | Excellent arch support and stability | May be heavy for some runners |
| Hoka One One | Bondi | Thick cushioning, wide toe box, rocker design | Superior cushioning, good for long runs | Less responsive due to thick cushioning |
| Asics | Gel Nimbus | Gel cushioning, FlyteFoam midsole | Great shock absorption, comfortable fit | Can be expensive |
| New Balance | 990 | ENCAP midsole technology, dual-density collar foam | Durable, supportive | Less stylish, bulkier design |
Contents
- Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis Q&A
- What are the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis?
- Are Brooks or Hokas better for plantar fasciitis?
- Is Hoka good for plantar fasciitis?
- Is it OK to jog with plantar fasciitis?
- What shoes should you not wear with plantar fasciitis?
- What running shoes do podiatrists recommend?
- Which brand is good for plantar fasciitis?
- What style of Brooks is best for plantar fasciitis?
- Is Hoka better than Brooks?
- Is going barefoot good for plantar fasciitis?
- What aggravates plantar fasciitis?
- Is it better not to walk with plantar fasciitis?
- What are the key elements to take into consideration?
- What to avoid when shopping for running shoes
- Best running shoes for men
- Cushioned running shoes for active women
- The shoe pushup test
- Final verdict
Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis Q&A
What are the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis?
The best running shoes for plantar fasciitis typically feature strong arch support, cushioning, and stability. Popular models include the Asics Gel Nimbus, Brooks Ghost, Hoka One One Bondi, and New Balance 990. These shoes are designed to reduce stress on the heel and arch, helping to alleviate pain.
Are Brooks or Hokas better for plantar fasciitis?
Both Brooks and Hoka offer highly beneficial models for those suffering from plantar fasciitis. Brooks shoes often provide exceptional cushioning and support, particularly in their Ghost and Adrenaline GTS lines. Hoka shoes are known for their thick, cushioned soles and lightweight design, particularly in models like the Hoka One Bondi.
Is Hoka good for plantar fasciitis?
Yes, Hoka is considered a good brand for plantar fasciitis. Their shoes generally feature thick, supportive cushioning, which helps alleviate pressure on the plantar fascia by providing excellent shock absorption.
Is it OK to jog with plantar fasciitis?
Jogging with plantar fasciitis is possible, but it should be done cautiously. It’s essential to wear supportive footwear, possibly including orthotic inserts, and follow a gradual training program. Consulting with a healthcare professional to ensure your condition is managed properly while jogging is also recommended.
What shoes should you not wear with plantar fasciitis?
Avoid shoes with poor arch support, minimal cushioning, or excessive heel heights. High heels, old athletic shoes, and flat sandals typically do not provide the necessary support and can worsen plantar fasciitis symptoms.
What running shoes do podiatrists recommend?
Podiatrists often recommend running shoes that provide excellent arch support, cushioning, and stability. Brands like Asics, Brooks, Hoka One One, and New Balance are frequently suggested due to their focus on these features.
Which brand is good for plantar fasciitis?
Brands like Brooks, Hoka One One, Asics, and New Balance are considered good for plantar fasciitis because they emphasize supportive cushioning and stability.
What style of Brooks is best for plantar fasciitis?
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS is highly recommended for plantar fasciitis. It features targeted support that helps stabilize the foot, reducing strain on the plantar fascia.
Is Hoka better than Brooks?
Whether Hoka is better than Brooks depends on individual needs and preferences. Hoka offers superior cushioning, which is beneficial for absorbing impact, while Brooks offers more comprehensive support and stability features. Both are excellent choices for plantar fasciitis.
Is going barefoot good for plantar fasciitis?
Going barefoot is not generally recommended for people with plantar fasciitis, especially on hard surfaces. It can increase stress on the plantar fascia and aggravate symptoms. Wearing supportive footwear, even at home, can help alleviate pain.
What aggravates plantar fasciitis?
Activities that involve excessive running, jumping, or other forms of impact can aggravate plantar fasciitis. Poorly fitting or unsupportive footwear also contributes to worsening symptoms. Overpronation, excessive weight, and tight calf muscles can further strain the plantar fascia.
Is it better not to walk with plantar fasciitis?
While rest can help alleviate the symptoms of plantar fasciitis, complete avoidance of walking is not typically necessary. Instead, walking should be moderated, and supportive shoes should be worn to reduce stress on the heel and arch. Adjusting walking habits and incorporating gentle stretching can also help manage symptoms effectively.
What are the key elements to take into consideration?
You have two key elements to consider when selecting a good pair of running shoes. First, your running shoes should keep your ankles in a firm position. Second, they should provide adequate heel and arch support to reduce the intensity of the pain experienced (due to your condition).
Apart from the heel and arch support, your running shoes should present adequate midsole stability to minimize the risk of an injury. The main idea is that you can select a pair of shoes to continue your physical activity without worsening your condition. You need a suitable pair of shoes to experience as little pain as possible and continue running.
Why is arch support so important? The answer is simple and quite obvious. When your running shoes provide the maximum amount of arch support, this means that your plantar fascia is protected from strenuous activity (as much as possible). Moreover, such a pair of shoes will be able to absorb shocks efficiently, reducing the impact felt at the heel’s level. Top-quality cushioning is often added, dispersing the force generated through the heel strike.
The Internet is filled with stores selling running shoes recommended to those suffering from plantar fasciitis. While you might be drawn to top brands, it is important to research every product to be 100% convinced it matches your needs. The feedback or reviews left by runners suffering from plantar fasciitis will be helpful in such cases.
What to avoid when shopping for running shoes
Just because a pair of running shoes is advertised as suitable for someone with plantar fasciitis does not mean it is. As you cannot always trust the websites that provide you with such purchase opportunities, it is best to do your research and know the things to avoid. For example, you should always refuse running shoes made from cheap materials. These will not only cause wear & tear quickly but also present an increased risk of injury (especially in your situation).
If the running shoes you intend to purchase offer little or no arch and heel support, they are unsuitable for you. Moreover, you should avoid running shoes that are too light or flexible, as these can do more harm than good.
As more people suffer from plantar fasciitis, a whole industry was created around such needs. There are countless stores, both virtual and real, that sell running shoes recommended for plantar fasciitis sufferers. A quick look at many of these shoes will allow you to see cool designs; in fact, many running shoes seem to belong more in a sci-fi movie than in the real world.
No matter how tempting it might be to choose an uber-cool pair of running shoes, always consider your needs. The chosen pair of running shoes should not aggravate your overall symptomatology, and you should not wear any pair of shoes just because they look trendy. Your priority should be purchasing a pair of athletic shoes that provide adequate support for your arches and heels. Pay attention to the quality of the cushioning and the general fit and stability offered.
Best running shoes for men
According to an article published online on Runners Connect[1], plantar fasciitis is one of the most common injuries in runners. For many people who suffer from this condition, pain is more severe when they start to run, being reduced in intensity as the running continues. The article’s author highlights that running in shoes that do not provide adequate support can only increase the intensity of the experienced pain. The pain would be even more severe if one ran barefoot.
Running in hard or uncomfortable shoes can worsen the symptomatology of plantar fasciitis, with severe pain in both the heel and the arch of the foot. Runners should always look for flexible shoes, as these will allow the arch to stretch efficiently and become stronger at the same time. Adequate running shoes remain the ones that provide both cushioning and arch support.
In the situation that you belong to the male gender and you want to purchase the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis, there are several elements to be on the lookout for. First and foremost, you must ensure that the midsole of your future running shoes is highly stable. Next, choosing a pair with gel cushioning on the forefoot is recommended, as this guarantees the best possible shock absorption.
Low-quality running shoes are often too tight, adding to the problems caused by plantar fascia inflammation. This is why you have to search for a pair of running shoes with multiple width sizes to choose from. It is always a good idea to purchase shoes that allow you to add OTC inserts, as these will increase the level of comfort experienced.
In choosing your next pair of running shoes, you must think about your level as a runner. For example, if you are a heavier runner, you should wear a pair of running shoes made from sturdier materials. The heel-to-toe drop should be lower, while the toe box should be wider for added comfort. Some running shoes are more suitable for marathons, while others remain suitable only as work shoes. However, no matter how heavy a runner you might be, you must choose a pair that will simultaneously correct your stride.
If you also have flat feet, it is recommended that you purchase running shoes with a segmented midsole. This feature will make the heel-to-midfoot transition more facile, reducing the intensity of the pain experienced. Remember that running shoes, which are designed for people who suffer from plantar fasciitis, will enhance your natural gait while allowing you to maintain an excellent level of stability.
It is best to avoid running shoes that do not have adequate cushioning, as these will not provide you with the level of comfort you need. Pay attention to the quality of the mesh, as fabrics of low quality can wear out quicker than you expect. Also, avoid running shoes that have short laces, as these will come undone quite often.
Cushioned running shoes for active women
Regarding running shoes for women, functionality, and support are the two main things to look for. The chosen pair of running shoes should guarantee stability without worsening symptoms. Optimal cushioning and flexibility are mandatory to ensure that the running experience is pleasant and comfortable.
If you suffer from plantar fasciitis, the one thing you want to avoid while running is pain. Remember that your shoes should prevent your condition from worsening by providing adequate heel and arch support. The running shoes on the market are either recommended for overpronators or neutral runners; to determine which category you fall into, it might be best to get an assessment from a physical therapist.
When deciding which running shoes to purchase, you should also consider how long you will run. Some shoes are great for long-distance running, while others are reserved for shorter distances and walking. To ensure that your shoes are comfortable enough, choose a pair that allows for a smooth transition from the heel strike to the toe-off. Also, the rear-foot gel cushioning can be useful in absorbing shocks, reducing the pain you will experience.
As with men’s running shoes, you should avoid those with a limited width, as they can be quite uncomfortable to wear and run in. Also, avoid those that are heavy, have short laces, or do not offer adequate arch support.
The quality of the running shoes has to match the highest standards to ensure the protection you deserve. According to a study[2] published online on the website of the US National Library of Medicine, defective running shoes might actually represent a contributing factor to plantar fasciitis.
The study analyzed several factors in a triathlete, such as heel pain, range of motion, and ankle strength; at the same time, it assessed the construction of the running shoes the athlete wore in terms of integrity, materials used (and degree of wear) and lack of stability (sole). The athlete complained of heel pain, which is specific to plantar fasciitis. It was discovered that a manufacturing defect in the running shoes caused the pain. So, you see, by choosing quality running shoes, you can prevent plantar fasciitis symptoms from worsening (or even appearing in the first place).
The shoe pushup test
If you want to determine whether a pair of running shoes is suitable for you, you can resort to the shoe pushup test. This test[3] has been presented online in an article written by Stephen M. Pribut, D.P.M., regarding plantar fasciitis and heel pain syndrome in runners and athletes.
You want to verify where the shoe bends by holding it at the heel and pressing on the forefoot. Keep in mind that the ball of the shoe is where it should bend, this being the area of the metatarsal bones. If you press lower and the shoe bends, this means that the shoe is not of adequate quality, and you will suffer from pain by using it.
Final verdict
Plantar fasciitis is a serious condition and it should be treated as such. However, just because you are suffering from such problems does not mean you should stop engaging in physical activities like running. You only have to ensure that you have the best running shoes, with adequate heel and arch support, forefoot and rear-foot cushioning, and stable midsole.
References:
[1] https://runnersconnect.net/running-injury-prevention/plantar-fasciitis-in-runners/
[2] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10705593
[3] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10705593