If you have plantar fasciitis, you would know how hard it is to run with this condition. When the plantar fascia – a band of tissue in the middle of your foot that supports the arch – overstretches or becomes inflamed, it causes pain in your heel and toes. This is referred to as plantar fasciitis. Most times, you’ll feel a lot of pain in the morning when you get out of bed. Unfortunately, plantar fasciitis is a very common injury among runners.
There are many risk factors for plantar fasciitis, including being overweight, neuromuscular imbalances, and having decreased mobility, flexibility, or stability from the neck. If you have any of these issues and you continue to run, the repetitive impacts could create tension in your plantar fascia, eventually turning into an injury.
Since the causes are widespread, your best chance of avoiding plantar fasciitis is to become a more balanced, stronger, and flexible runner. If you already suffer from plantar fasciitis, get shoes with plush cushioning, shock absorption, arch support, and a chunky heel. These shoes would keep your feet comfortable, reducing the pain you feel while running with plantar fasciitis. For your convenience, we have compiled a list of best running shoes for plantar fasciitis. We have also discussed features that you should look for when shopping for a running shoe for plantar fasciitis.
Contents
Things to Consider When Shopping for Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
· Shock Absorption
Running is a high-impact activity. When your foot hits the ground, you would feel a strong impact that could cause pain in your heel and foot, especially if you have plantar fasciitis. To disperse shock on impact, you need a pair of running shoes that boast good shock absorption quality. The running shoe you get should attenuate shock on impact, reducing its effect on your joints, ankles, and heel. Most running shoes available in the market offer good shock absorption. In our list, we have included the models with the best shock absorption qualities to ensure that you don’t feel pain while running.
· Comfort
The main focus of having running shoes for plantar fasciitis is to reduce the pain you feel on your feet while running. For this reason, flexible toe boxes and robust heel counters are essential to ensure that the shoe bends towards the front end but stays strong at the back. However, the toe-box shouldn’t be too loose as this could increase the chances of injury.
· Arch Support
If you have plantar fasciitis, it is vital that you get shoes with good arch support. Without proper arch support, you’ll be making your condition worse as your plantar fascia would continue to stretch and suffer while you are running. This would exacerbate your condition, resulting in more pain. With good arch support, you won’t experience a heightened performance, but you would feel less pain when running.
It is worth noting that there are various levels of arch support. You should consider the severity of your plantar fasciitis and then determine how much arch support is adequate. If you have severe plantar fasciitis, look for shoes with exceptional arch support.
· Midsole
The midsole of the running shoe you buy should be stiff and have ample cushioning to support your feet. By stiffness, we mean that the shoe shouldn’t bend in half. Cushioning is important because a stiff midsole with no cushioning would irritate your condition, potentially making the pain worse.
· Insole
The insole of the running shoe for plantar fasciitis should offer ample support and stability to your feet. It should be soft and comfy. If you use customized orthotics to relieve your pain, it is important to look for shoes that come with a removable insole. This way, you will be able to use your customized orthotics with the new pair of running shoes for extra support and comfort.
· Outsole
The outsole of your shoes should be slip-resistant. The last thing you want is to lose your grip while running and fall down. Therefore, look for running shoes with rubber outsole. Rubber provides a solid grip on a variety of surfaces and is, therefore, the ideal material for the outsole of a running shoe.
· Fit
The fit of the running shoe is another vital factor to consider when shopping for running shoes. As your arches and heel are likely going to be inflamed, you would feel pain if the shoe fits too tight or is too loose on your feet. Therefore, check the size of the shoes you are buying. If it runs small, make sure to order a size up for a good fit. If it is large in size, go with a size down for a comfortable fit. The running shoes you buy should ease pressure on your arch to relieve pain while running.
How to Care for Your Running Shoes
Since running shoes tend to be expensive, you would want to keep them for at least a year before replacing them. To ensure that your shoes last a long time, be careful while removing them. Don’t just pull your foot right out of the shoe. Doing this may stretch the back of your shoe over time and cause damage to the support structure inside the shoe. Instead, unlace the shoe and then take your foot out of it.
If the shoes feature leather uppers, don’t put them into the washing machine or dryer. Instead of clean them with a soft cloth and air dry after washing them. When you are drying the shoes, remove laces and insoles to ensure proper air circulation. If you find cracks in the outsole, don’t wear the shoes and replace them with a new pair.
Read Also: Best Nike Running Shoes for Women
Our Top 3 Choices
Best Overall: Asics Women’s Gel-Noosa Tri 9
Premium Product: Asics Men’s Gel-Kayano 24 Running-Shoes
Best Value: Saucony Men’s Kinvara 7 Running Shoe
Best Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
1. New Balance Men’s M1540v2
The New Balance M1540v2 is a supportive road running shoe, designed to help support flat feet and stabilize severe over-pronation. The upper of the shoe is designed to be breathable and supportive. It is made with mesh and features synthetic overlays for support. Mesh promotes air circulation, ensuring that your feet stay cool, dry, and sweat-free. Synthetic overlays provide support to your feet, allowing you to run with proper form. The shoe also features a dual-density collar that feels soft on the foot. Moreover, the tongue is padded for comfort and support.
The midsoles of the New Balance M1540v2 feature excellent technologies to reduce shock and control pronation. It comes with Rollbar technology for improved medial and lateral support. It also incorporates ABZORB cushioning in the heel that reduces shock on impact to protect joints and heel. The top layer of the midsole is made with ACTEVA LITE form to cushion landings. Overall, the midsole of this shoe offers excellent shock absorption and arch support to relieve pain when running.
The outsole of the New Balance M1540v2 is made with a combination of blown rubber and NDurance rubber. Blown rubber offers traction while NDurance rubber promotes durability, helping the outsole to last long.
Pros of the New Balance Men’s M1540v2
- Great support and breathability
- The outsole is durable and offers good traction
- Ample room in the toe-box
- Excellent shock absorption and arch support
- Good for runners with flat feet or over-pronation
Cons of the New Balance Men’s M1540v2
- A bit pricey
2. Asics Men’s Gel-Kayano 24 Running-Shoes
Asics has produced several high-quality running shoes, and the Gel-Kayano 24 is one of them. This model comes with minor improvements over the previous version – the Gel-Kayano 23. The upper of the Gel-Kayano 24 is made with mesh and features FluidFit technology, which ensures a snug fit. While this upper would wrap around the foot nicely, it won’t compromise on flexibility and breathability.
The midsoles of the Gel-Kayano 24 are constructed with FlyteFoam. This offers good cushioning and shock absorption to reduce the effect of shock on your joints when running. The FlyteFoam midsoles also incorporate Fluid Ride technology, which combines cushioning and bounce-back properties with exceptional durability and reduce weight.
The Gel-Kayano 24 features an exoskeletal heel counter that provides improved arch support, helping to reduce the pain that might result from plantar fasciitis. Moreover, it comes with an OrthoLite sockliner to improve support. The outsole of this shoe is made with rubber and features the Asics Impact Guidance System (IGS). IGS enhances the natural gait of the foot and helps correct pronation.
Pros of the Asics Men’s Gel-Kayano 24 Running-Shoes
- Comfortable
- Good breathability
- Great support and cushioning
- IGS to enhance natural gait
- Provides great stability
Cons of the Asics Men’s Gel-Kayano 24 Running-Shoes
- May feel a little bulky
- Expensive
3. Asics Men’s Gel Nimbus 18 Running Shoe
The Asics Gel Nimbus 18 is a good running shoe for those who suffer from plantar fasciitis and have narrow feet. The reason is that it features a narrow toe-box which could be uncomfortable for wide-footed runners. The upper of this shoe features engineered mesh for breathability. This material would keep your feet comfy, dry, and sweat-free. Synthetic overlays in the upper part offer support while running. The upper also incorporates the FluidFit technology to offer a glove-like fit.
The midsole of the Asics Gel Nimbus 18 features FluidRide technology, which offers cushioning and energy-return. It also incorporates the Gel cushioning system in the rearfoot and forefoot area to attenuate shock on impact to provide you with a comfortable ride. These technologies offer support and shock absorption without adding extra weight to the shoe. This model comes with an exoskeletal heel counter that offers extra support to your feet when running.
The outsole of the Gel Nimbus 18 is made with Asics high-abrasion rubber (AHAR). AHAR offers excellent cushioning and traction. Moreover, it is durable, meaning that the outsole of your running shoe would last a long time.
Pros of the Asics Men’s Gel Nimbus 18 Running Shoe
- Heel counter enhances support and stability
- Good shock absorption and arch support
- Highly-cushioned midsole
- Outsole offers stability and good traction
- Breathable upper
Cons of the Asics Men’s Gel Nimbus 18 Running Shoe
- Expensive
- Narrow toe-box
4. Mizuno Women’s Wave Rider 22 Running Shoe
The Mizuno Wave Rider 22 is an excellent running shoe that may help absolve pain associated with your condition. The upper of this shoe is made with engineered mesh and features synthetic overlays for support. Mesh promotes airflow to keep your feet sweat-free.
The Mizuno Wave Rider 22 comes with a U4ic midsole with double wave technology. Double wave technology assists in attenuating shock on impact and offers durability without adding extra weight to the shoe. The extra shock absorption you get from the midsole of this shoe may help alleviate some of the pain associated with plantar fasciitis. The outsole of the Mizuno Wave Rider 22 is made with rubber and, as such, offers excellent traction on a variety of surfaces.
Pros of the Mizuno Women’s Wave Rider 22 Running Shoe
- Excellent shock absorption
- Breathable and durable upper
- U4ic midsole with double wave technology
- Rubber outsole offers good traction
Cons of the Mizuno Women’s Wave Rider 22 Running Shoe
- A narrow-fit for wide-footed runners
5. Hoka One One Men’s Bondi 5 Running Shoe
Hoka One One is a new brand, but it has been making waves in the market of running shoes with its high-quality offerings. The Bondi 5 is one of their most cushioned running shoes available in the market. The upper of this shoe is made with engineered mesh and gives off a sleek and smooth appearance. It offers exceptional flexibility, and the toe-box has enough wiggle room, which means that you will be less likely to suffer from hot spots or bunions.
The midsole of the Bondi 5 is made with EVA foam and provides low-profile cushioning. It helps reduce shock on impact, keeping your feet comfortable while running. This model also features an OrthoLite sockliner for arch support and cushioning.
The outsole of the Bondi 5 is constructed with high-abrasion rubber and EVA foam. Rubber is used in the toe and heel section of the shoe to offer grip and durability while EVA is used in the middle of the outsole for cushioning.
Pros of the Hoka One One Men’s Bondi 5 Running Shoe
- Flexible and comfortable
- Adequate cushioning for arch support and comfort
- OrthoLite insole
- Breathable upper
- Outsole offers good grip
Cons of the Hoka One One Men’s Bondi 5 Running Shoe
- Not the most durable offering
6. Saucony Men’s Triumph ISO 4 Running Shoe
The Saucony Triumph ISO 4 is another wonderful option for runners suffering from plantar fasciitis. This model comes with more cushioning in the midsole and provides a snug fit through the upper. The upper is constructed with engineered mesh and features ISOFIT technology. The material is very stretchy and conforms to the shape of the foot for a comfortable fit. Moreover, it allows air to flow in and out of the shoe, which helps keep hot spots and blisters at bay.
The Saucony Triumph ISO 4 comes with a patented EVERUN midsole. This midsole runs the entire length of the shoe and is designed to attenuate shock on impact and return energy to the wearer. This should help protect the runner from premature fatigue. The EVERRUN midsole offers plush cushioning for those suffering from plantar fasciitis to alleviate some of the pain associated with the condition.
The Saucony Triumph ISO 4 features a tri-flex outsole, designed to offer ample traction and flexibility to the runners. The shoe fits true-to-size, which means that you can go with your original size for a comfortable fit.
Pros of the Saucony Men’s Triumph ISO 4 Running Shoe
- Durable and flexible
- Shock absorbing EVERUN midsole
- Breathable and supportive upper
- Tri-flex outsole for flexibility and traction
Cons of the Saucony Men’s Triumph ISO 4 Running Shoe
- May feel a little heavy for long distances
7. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 1080v7 Running Shoe
The Fresh Foam 1080v7 is a high-end running shoe, perfect for those with plantar fasciitis. The upper of these shoes is quite different from the previous version. It features mesh material with synthetic overlays for support. The toe-box offers ample wiggle room, reducing the risk of hot spots and blisters. This shoe also features a removable insole, meaning that you can use your specialized orthotics for extra comfort and support.
The midsole of the Fresh Foam 1080v7 is made with a thick Fresh Foam. It helps attenuate shock on impact, preventing your joints and heel from feelings its effect. The outsole of these shoes is made with blown rubber and offers good traction on a variety of surfaces.
Pros of the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 1080v7 Running Shoe
- Lightweight
- Removable insole
- Fresh Foam midsole for shock absorption
- Several style options
- Durable
- Breathable and supportive uppers
Cons of the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 1080v7 Running Shoe
- Expensive
8. New Balance Men’s 1080v8 Fresh Foam Running Shoe
The Fresh Foam is one of the best selling lines of New Balance’s running shoes. The upper of the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v8 is made with soft and durable engineered mesh to promote breathability. This material enhances airflow to keep sweat and odors at bay. A TPU heel counter is placed at the back of the shoe, and a midfoot cage is incorporated into the lacing system to enhance support and keep your foot locked in place.
The New Balance 1080v8 features the Fresh Foam midsole. This midsole boasts excellent cushioning and shock absorption. This pair absorbs shock on each impact, preventing premature fatigue and foot pain. This shoe also features an OrthoLite sockliner for comfort and support. This sockliner is removable, which means that you can use your custom orthotics with these shoes for extra support and comfort.
The outsole of the New Balance 1080v8 is made with blown rubber and features flex grooves for enhanced traction. Overall, this model is a good option for runners who suffer from plantar fasciitis as it provides good arch support and cushioning.
Pros of the New Balance Men’s 1080v8 Fresh Foam Running Shoe
- Fits true-to-size
- Fresh Foam midsole attenuates shock on impact
- Breathable mesh upper
- Blown rubber outsole
- Removable OrthoLite sockliner
Cons of the New Balance Men’s 1080v8 Fresh Foam Running Shoe
- A bit expensive
9. Saucony Men’s Kinvara 7 Running Shoe
The Saucony Kinvara 7 is another wonderful option for runners who suffer from plantar fasciitis. The most liked features of the Kinvara 6 have remained unchanged in the upper. The Kinvara 7 features the same FlexFilm and Pro-Lock lacing systems that were seen in the previous model. FlexFilm overlays are molded to the upper of the shoe to eliminate seams. FLexFilm makes the upper tougher without compromising on flexibility. Pro-Lock lacing system locks the foot in place for stability.
The Saucony Kinvara 7 comes equipped with EVERUN midsole. This midsole offers excellent cushioning and shock absorption. It helps attenuate shock on impact, reducing fatigue and foot-pain that may result from plantar fasciitis. The outsole of this shoe is made with EVA foam and features tri-flex technology to offer better traction and support when running. Despite boasting exceptional comfort features, the Saucony Kinvara 7 doesn’t come with a hefty price tag. You can get your hands on this pair for less than $100. As such, this shoe from Saucony offers great value for money.
Pros of the Saucony Men’s Kinvara 7 Running Shoe
- Fits true-to-size
- Great value for money
- Excellent cushioning and shock absorption
- FlexFile system and Pro-Lock lacing system enhance support
- Breathable mesh upper
Cons of the Saucony Men’s Kinvara 7 Running Shoe
- Not the most durable offering
10. Asics Women’s Gel-Noosa Tri 9
The Asics Gel-Noosa Tri 9 is one of the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis. It features an open mesh upper, which allows for great ventilation, ensuring that your feet stay cool, comfy, and sweat-free. The seamless construction of the upper ensures that the shoe wraps nicely around the foot. The midsole of this shoe features Gel cushioning system that absorbs shock on each impact, providing the runner with a comfortable and supportive ride. Gel cushioning is located in both the rearfoot and forefoot area, which means that this shoe is suitable for both forefoot-strikers and heel-strikers.
The midsole of the Asics Gel-Noosa Tri 9 also incorporates the Dynamic DuoMax Support System, which enhances its responsiveness and cushioning. This shoe also features a perforated sockliner to keep odors at bay. The outsole of this model is made with Asics high-abrasion rubber and offers excellent traction while being durable. It features an impact guidance system to improve the natural gait of the runner’s foot. If you are looking for a running shoe that would alleviate some of the pain associated with plantar fasciitis, the Asics Gel-Noosa Tri 9 should be on your shortlist.
Pros of the Asics Women’s Gel-Noosa Tri 9
- Breathable and supportive upper
- Gel cushioning in the rearfoot and forefoot for shock absorption
- Dynamic DuoMax Support System enhances arch support and responsiveness
- Perforated sockliner for odor control
- AHAR rubber outsole for excellent traction and durability
Cons of the Asics Women’s Gel-Noosa Tri 9
- Runs small in size
11. Saucony Men’s Guide 10 Running Shoes
The Saucony is a good stability running shoe that improves upon technologies used in the ninth edition of the Saucony Guide. The upper of the Saucony Guide 10 features mesh in some areas to promote airflow and FlexFilm in others for support and durability. The midsole of this shoe is made with EVA foam. The previous version’s midsole came with a crash pad, but this model doesn’t have it. Instead, it features a deeper groove for enhanced arch support. The midsole offers ample cushioning and helps absorb shock on impact, preventing runners from fatiguing prematurely.
The outsole of the Saucony Guide 10 is constructed with three rubber compounds. The forefoot area is made of a softer rubber, and the midfoot and heel areas use a harder rubber for improved durability and traction. Moreover, XT-900 carbon rubber is used on the tip of the forefoot for protection against wear and tear.
Pros of the Saucony Men’s Guide 10 Running Shoes
- Ample cushioning and shock absorption
- Breathable and supportive upper
- EVA foam midsole with a deeper groove
- Durable outsole offers excellent traction
- Comfortable and durable
Cons of the Saucony Men’s Guide 10 Running Shoes
- A little pricey
12. Asics Gel-Cumulus 20 Running Shoes
The Asics Gel-Cumulus 20 is another great running shoe for those suffering from plantar fasciitis. The upper of these shoes is made with mesh to promote air circulation, ensuring that your feet stay cool and sweat-free. Moreover, it features FluidFit technology to conform to the shape of your feet. The lacing system of these shoes is standard. The toe-box may feel a little tight to wide-footed runners but feels comfortable to those with narrow feet.
An OrthoLite sockliner sits inside the Asics Gel-Cumulus 20 to keep odors at bay. The midsole of this shoe incorporates several technologies for shock absorption and arch support. It incorporates FlyteFoam and FluidRide to improve the responsiveness and cushion of the shoe. Gel cushioning system in the heel and forefoot area helps reduce shock on each impact, reducing foot-pain associated with plantar fasciitis.
The outsole of these shoes is made with Durasponge rubber and offers excellent traction on a variety of surfaces. It incorporates the Impact Guidance System to improve the natural gait of the foot and also features the Guidance Trusstic System with Guidance Line for greater support.
Pros of the Asics Gel-Cumulus 20 Running Shoes
- Breathable mesh upper
- FluidFit technology
- Durasponge outsole offers excellent traction
- Shock absorbing midsole
- Padded collar and tongue
Cons of the Asics Gel-Cumulus 20 Running Shoes
- May not be the ideal option for wide-footed runners
13. Asics Men’s Gel-Cumulus 21 Running Shoes
The Gel-Cumulus 21 is an updated version of the previous model – the Asics Gel-Cumulus 20. Its upper is constructed with a dual-layer mesh, which promotes airflow, ensuring that your feet stay sweat-free and comfortable. The collar and tongue of the shoe are padded for added comfort, and it fits true-to-size, meaning that you can settle for your original size.
For support and comfort, Asics has used an OrthoLite sockliner in this shoe, which wicks away moisture. This sockliner can also be removed to make room for custom orthotics. Gel cushioning is used in the rearfoot and forefoot area of the midsole to reduce shock on impact, preventing runners from fatiguing prematurely. The midsole of these shoes also incorporates two cushioning foams – the FlyteFoam and FlyteFoam Propel – to enhance responsiveness.
The outsole of the Gel-Cumulus 21 is made with Durasponge rubber and Asics high-abrasion rubber to promote durability and traction. It also features the Impact Guidance System to promote the natural gait of a runner’s foot.
Pros of the Asics Men’s Gel-Cumulus 21 Running Shoes
- Breathable upper
- Midsole offers excellent shock absorption and cushioning
- Removable OrthoLite sockliner
- Padded tongue and collar
- Durable outsole
Cons of the Asics Men’s Gel-Cumulus 21 Running Shoes
- May feel a little bulky
14. Asics Men’s Gel-Kayano 25 Running Shoes
The Asics Gel-Kayano 25 boasts excellent supportive features, which make it a good option for runners suffering from plantar fasciitis. For the upper, Asics has used a combination of mesh and synthetic material. This choice of material makes the upper breathable and durable, reducing the risk of chafing and overheating. This shoe comes with an exoskeletal heel counter for lateral stability.
The midsoles of the Asics Gel-Kayano 25 are made with SpEVA foam, which offers excellent cushioning and responsiveness without adding extra weight to the shoe. Gel cushioning is included in the heel and forefoot area of the midsole for shock absorption. For the outsole, Asics has used its patented high-abrasion rubber, which is very durable and offers excellent traction. This outsole is suitable for both road and trail running. Guidance Trusstic and Guidance Line are incorporated into the outsole to enhance stability during the run.
Pros of the Asics Men’s Gel-Kayano 25 Running Shoes
- Comfortable
- Durable
- Shock absorbing SpEVA midsole
- Guidance Trusstic and Guidance Line for increased stability
- Durable high-abrasion rubber outsole offers excellent grip
- Breathable upper
Cons of the Asics Men’s Gel-Kayano 25 Running Shoes
- A little bulky
15. Asics Gel-Nimbus 21
The Asics Gel-Nimbus 21 features a breathable upper, constructed with dual-layer jacquard mesh. This material allows air to flow in and out of the shoe, ensuring that your feet stay dry and sweat-free during the run. The toe-box may feel a little narrow, which can be a problem for wide-footed runners. The collar of this model is padded for added comfort.
The midsole of the Gel-Nimbus features several technologies for comfort and shock absorption. For starters, it boasts Flytefoam Propel technology, which offers cushioning and energy-return. Asics has also used their patented Gel-cushioning system in the heel and forefoot area of the midsole for shock absorption and cushioning. Thus, you would be less likely to feel pain when you strike the ground while running. An OrthoLite sockliner sits inside this shoe for extra support and comfort. The outsole of the Asics Gel-Nimbus 21 is made with rubber and offers excellent traction on a variety of surfaces.
Pros of the Asics Gel-Nimbus 21
- Smooth and comfortable ride
- Durable
- Breathable mesh upper
- OrthoLite sockliner
- Reasonably priced
- Outsole offers excellent traction
Cons of the Asics Gel-Nimbus 21
- Not a good option for wide-footed runners
16. Asics Men’s Gel-Nimbus 22 Running Shoe
The Asics Gel-Nimbus 22 is another good pair of running shoes for those with plantar fasciitis. It comes with more cushioning than the previous model. The upper of this shoe is constructed with a breathable mesh and as such, would prevent overheating and chafing. The toe-box has ample wiggle room, which means that you will be less likely to suffer from hot spots or blisters.
The midsole of the Asics Gel-Nimbus 22 is constructed with SpEVA foam and features gel cushioning in the rearfoot and forefoot area for shock absorption. It also incorporates FlyteFoam Lyte and FlyteFoam Propel technology, which enhances the responsiveness and flexibility of the shoe. The outsoles of these shoes are made with rubber and provide good traction even on icy roads.
Pros of the Asics Men’s Gel-Nimbus 22 Running Shoe
- Breathable uppers
- Comfortable
- Good shock absorption
- Excellent traction
- Fits true-to-size
Cons of the Asics Men’s Gel-Nimbus 22 Running Shoe
- Expensive
17. New Balance Men’s 990v4
The New Balance 990v4 is a high-end running shoe that boasts impressive shock absorption quality, which makes it a great option for runners with plantar fasciitis. Its upper is made with mesh and features synthetic overlays for durability. Mesh promotes airflow, preventing overheating and chafing, while synthetic material adds support to the shoe.
The midsole of this model features ENCAP technology for responsiveness and ACTIVA LITE for cushioning and shock absorption. It attenuates shock on impact, reducing fatigue and foot-pain. The outsole of the New Balance 990v4 is constructed with blown rubber and provides good traction on roads and trails.
Pros of the New Balance Men’s 990v4
- ENCAP and ACTEVA LITE midsole for cushioning and shock absorption
- Breathable and supportive upper
- Rigid construction
- Excellent grip on both roads and trails
- Fits true-to-size
Cons of the New Balance Men’s 990v4
- Very pricey
18. New Balance Women’s W870v4 Running Shoe
The New Balance W870v4 is another option for runners with plantar fasciitis. Its upper is constructed with mesh and features TPU overlays, which enhance support. Mesh promotes airflow, ensuring that your feet stay dry, cool, and sweat-free during the shoe. The collar and tongue of these shoes are padded. Moreover, this model comes with an OrthoLite sockliner for moisture control and odor management.
The midsoles of the W870v4 feature REVLite and ABZORB technologies. Both these technologies work in tandem to attenuate shock on impact and offer good arch support for a comfortable ride. The outsole of this shoe is constructed with blown rubber and offers a decent grip on roads. It is worth noting that the W870v4 fits true-to-size, which means that you go with your original size.
Pros of the New Balance Women’s W870v4 Running Shoe
- Breathable and comfortable
- Blown rubber outsole offers decent traction on roads
- Fits true-to-size
- Shock absorbing midsole
Cons of the New Balance Women’s W870v4 Running Shoe
- A little heavy
19. New Balance Men’s MT610V5
The New Balance MT610V5 features upper made with mesh and synthetic material. Mesh promotes airflow, keeping your foot cool and comfy. Synthetic overlays enhance durability and support. The heel, tongue, and collar of these shoes are padded for comfort.
The midsole of the New Balance MT610V5 is constructed with injection-molded EVA foam. It incorporates the ABZORB crash pad, which helps reduce shock on impact, allowing for a comfortable ride. The midsoles also feature ACTEVA LITE, which enhances cushioning and responsiveness.
The New Balance MT610V5 comes with a tread outsole, which provides excellent for off- and on-road runs. This outsole has multi-directional lugs, which keep gravel and small rocks out of the tread.
Pros of the New Balance Men’s MT610V5
- Comfortable and responsive
- Good for both narrow-footed and wide-footed runners
- Great traction on both roads and trails
- Cushioning midsole for comfort and shock absorption
Cons of the New Balance Men’s MT610V5
- Not the most durable offering
Final Thoughts
This brings our list to an end. This list, although a long one, is our attempt at making a detailed guide that can help you in purchasing the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis. We hope you find everything discussed here helpful.
Running with plantar fasciitis isn’t easy, and you could aggravate your condition if you run in a pair of uncomfortable shoes. Therefore, invest some money and buy running shoes that would alleviate some of the pain associated with plantar fasciitis. We have listed several options to make the search for the ideal running shoe easier for you. However, if you are still struggling to make the decision, let us make things even easier for you.
If you were reading carefully, you would remember we mentioned our top three picks earlier. Now, we’ll elaborate on them and tell you why Asics Women’s Gel-Noosa Tri 9 is the cream of the crop, what makes the Asics Men’s Gel-Kayano 24 Running-Shoes the best premium product and why we believe that the Saucony Men’s Kinvara 7 Running Shoe gives you the best bang for your buck.
Best Overall
The Asics Women’s Gel-Noosa Tri 9 features an open mesh upper, which allows for great ventilation, ensuring that your feet stay cool, comfy, and sweat-free. The seamless construction of the upper ensures that the shoe wraps nicely around the foot. The midsole of this shoe features Gel cushioning system that absorbs the shock on each impact, providing the runner with a comfortable and supportive ride. Gel cushioning is located in both the rearfoot and forefoot area, which means that this shoe is suitable for both forefoot-strikers and heel-strikers.
The midsole of the Asics Gel-Noosa Tri 9 also incorporates the Dynamic DuoMax Support System, which enhances its responsiveness and cushioning. This shoe also features a perforated sockliner to keep odors at bay.
Premium Product
If you money to burn and can afford a high-end running shoe, we suggest you go with the Asics Gel-Kayano 24. The upper of the Gel-Kayano 24 is made with mesh and features FluidFit technology, which ensures a snug fit. While this upper would wrap around the foot nicely, it won’t compromise on flexibility and breathability.
The midsole of the Gel-Kayano 24 is constructed with FlyteFoam, which offers offer good cushioning and shock absorption to reduce the effect of shock on your joints when running. The FlyteFoam midsole also incorporates Fluid Ride technology, which combines cushioning and bounce-back properties with exceptional durability and reduced weight. The Gel-Kayano 24 also features an exoskeletal heel counter that provides improved arch support, helping to reduce the pain that might result from plantar fasciitis. Moreover, it comes with an OrthoLite sockliner to improve support.
Best Value
The Saucony Kinvara 7 gives you the best value for money. This pair has the same FlexFilm and Pro-Lock lacing systems that were seen in the previous model. FlexFilm overlays are molded to the upper of the shoe to eliminate seams. FLexFilm makes the upper tougher without compromising on flexibility. Pro-Lock lacing system locks the foot in place for stability.
The Saucony Kinvara 7 comes equipped with EVERUN midsole. This midsole offers excellent cushioning and shock absorption. It helps attenuates shock on impact, reducing fatigue and foot-pain that may result from plantar fasciitis. The outsole of this shoe is made with EVA foam and features tri-flex technology to offer better traction and support when running. Despite boasting exceptional comfort features, the Saucony Kinvara 7 doesn’t come with a hefty price tag.
Now pick a pair from our list and enjoy running without feeling a lot of pain due to plantar fasciitis. When deciding to buy running shoes for plantar fasciitis, consider the factors we discussed earlier, including shock absorption, comfort, arch support, midsole, insole, outsole, and fit of the shoes. Moreover, avoid wearing shoes that boast poor cushioning, arch support, and shock absorption because they would make you feel uncomfortable. If you continuously run in these kinds of running shoes, you could aggravate your condition over time. This is why we suggest you invest in a pair of good-quality running shoes that feature breathable uppers, good cushioning, arch support and shock absorption, and an outsole that offers good traction.
We have provided detailed information on running shoes for plantar fasciitis. The ball is in your court now, and it is up to you to decide which shoe you should choose. However, if you are still struggling to choose a model that would be right for your condition or have any questions to ask from us, feel free to contact us. We’ll be more than happy to assist you in finding a pair of running shoes for plantar fasciitis.