RUN BETTER WITH OUR NEWSLETTER
Weekly running tips, latest offers & events
JOIN NOWBest Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
What is Plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue at the sole of the foot that connects the heel bone to the toes. Plantar fasciitis represents a third of the most frequent running injuries, behind medial tibial stress syndrome and Achilles tendinopathy – having a bit more incidence in ultra-runners. You may not experience any pain during exercise, but you are more likely to experience pain when you start walking after resting or sleeping.
The most common factors of plantar fasciitis include:
- Repetitive strain from impact, especially on harder surfaces
- Increasing your mileage rapidly over a brief period of time (too much too soon)
- New to exercise
A quite common factor is also using shoes with poor cushioning, structure and/or support (for the arch of the foot). Get some tips here.
How do you know if a shoe is good for plantar fasciitis?
The key features you will need in a technical pair of running shoes are:
- Cushioning – A sufficiently cushioned shoe will absorb the shock of impact whilst exercising, therefore protecting the joints and especially the heels, which are the main focus when experiencing plantar fasciitis.
- Support – Having the correct support will give you the required protection whilst doing exercise, especially high impact exercise such as running.
- Structure – As well as having cushioning and support, it is also important to have good structure. This is not only for the arch, but also for the heel and ankle. A lot of the time, these body parts take the brunt of the strain from exercise – structure can help to stabilise the foot and prevent further injuries.
- Heel-drop (or offset) – Runners with plantar fasciitis are likely to have limited ankle dorsiflexion. (The amount of dorsiflexion is the range between pointing your foot down and flexing your foot up). Reduced ankle dorsiflexion is also a risk factor to developing plantar fasciitis. Heel-drop is when the height difference between the heel to the toe of the shoe becomes important. A higher heel-drop (at least 7-12mm) will help to put your weight more in the forefoot and away from the plantar fascia in your feet. This will help to adjust to the lack of ankle dorsiflexion.
What are the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis?
So now you know what you should look for in your running shoes, if you’re suffering from plantar fasciitis. However, we recommend you come to us for natural gait analysis once a year, to make sure you're getting the correct type of shoes for you. If you already know what your gait is like, check out the best selection for you below!
Neutral Shoes / Support Shoes / Trail Shoes / Wide Fitting Shoes / Walking Shoes
Brooks Adrenaline GTS
This iconic supportive running shoe is like Brooks Ghost, but with the revolutionary GuideRails technology, to stabilise the foot and protect the arch. The improved midsole, with springy, responsive DNA Loft cushioning, provides brilliant shock-absorption and increased comfort. 12mm drop.
Mizuno Wave Inspire
Soothe your plantar pain while minimising the overpronation of your feet with these all-round trainers. Excellent bouncy cushioning and support to maintain your natural running posture. Breathable and soft seamless upper to ensure a plush and comfortable fit. New and sustainable Bio Wave plate. 12mm drop.
La Sportiva Akasha 2
Tackle any trail terrain without compromising comfort, durability, or stability with La Sportiva Akasha 2, even in high humidity or on dry ground. Sticky rubber FriXion Red outsole and superior cushioning midsole injected with EVA foam – the perfect combination for spring and responsive long and ultra-distance events. 6mm offset.
Neutral: New Balance 880 Wide
Put your everyday running needs and heel soreness at ease with these versatile wide shoes. Increased midsole softness for better performance and bounciness, thanks to its Fresh Foam X technology. The responsive cushioning with high energy-return makes them perfect for effortless runs. 10mm drop. Also available in a standard (B) fitting.
Neutral: Hoka Bondi
These lightweight yet highly cushioned trainers will ensure a comfortable walk – whether shorter or longer. They feature an improved heel counter to hold your feet in premium comfort, as well as Hoka’s signature cushioning for better shock absorption. Likewise, Hoka’s Meta-Rocker system evens up the pressure on the feet with its rolling structure. This helps avoid plantar discomfort and enhances recovery. 4mm drop.
Support: Hoka Arahi
Benefit from great cushioning and moderate support for the arch – ideal for harder surfaces such as pavements – with Hoka Arahi 6. Make your recovery easier and faster with its J-Frame™ technology, designed to prevent excessive inward roll (overpronation), without rigidity. 5mm drop.
FAQs
Is it okay to jog with plantar fasciitis?
It is not advisable, as any repeated stress could aggravate the small tears already, and cause further damage. Take some time off to assess what may be causing your plantar pain and see what you could do to help your recovery. If it’s treated in the early stages, recovery will be faster than if you leave it untreated for longer. A professional may be able to help with this.
What shoes make plantar fasciitis worse?
Any ill-fitting shoe with insufficient cushioning, stability and/or support. This also applies to old shoes. Sometimes we may think that because they look in perfect condition the cushioning is still good, but this isn’t the case most of the time. As well as wearing shoes that put a lot of pressure on the feet, such as high heels, flip-flops or flat shoes, be aware that new shoes can also cause some discomfort if they’re too rigid, stiff, tight or need breaking in.
Can running shoes give you plantar fasciitis?
Yes, if they don’t provide the correct and/or sufficient support, cushioning and structure. However, plantar fasciitis is commonly caused by overuse while running. It’s usually aggravated when runners overtrain, or increase mileage without progression.
×
Please select a size
Plantar Fasciitis from Running
Are you experiencing pain at the bottom of your heels? What are the symptoms and causes of plantar fasciitis and how can it be relieved? Find out more!
Achilles Tendonitis in Runners
Inflammation in the Achilles tendon is called Achilles tendonitis. This is due to the repetitive stress, which causes micro-tears to the tendon.
How do I know my foot strike when running?
Knowing your foot strike and gait is crucial when choosing running shoes. Find out if you're neutral, overpronating or supinating, and what to do next.
Stress Fractures from Running
A stress fracture, also known as a hairline fracture, is an overuse injury, typically related to high impact activities like running.
Leave a Comment