Plantar fasciitis is a common foot injury, particularly among runners that can be debilitating. It is the inflammation of the plantar fascia (the tissue that links your toes and heel bone). This condition can be triggered by repetitive strain injury to the plantar fascia.
The strain injury is caused by wearing inadequate footwear and excessive walking or running. The pain associated with plantar fasciitis can be exacerbated or introduced by wearing the wrong shoes.
The pain can be more intense in the morning when you take your first steps. Luckily, many shoes provide ample support and cushioning. However, finding the right men’s shoes for plantar fasciitis can be quite tricky.
These shoes are designed to ease the symptoms of plantar fasciitis. But, I bet you are aware of that. What you may not know is the best plantar fasciitis shoe for you.This review will help you find the best men’s shoes for plantar fasciitis.
The Best Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis for Men Are…
1. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 — Best Men’s Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
Runners love Brooks Adrenaline shoes for their perfect balance between stability and comfort. Brooks adrenaline footwear is referred to as the self-driving cars of the running footwear industry for a reason. GTS 20 is ideal for runners who require a perfect blend of reliability, flexibility, cushioning, and support.
Its streamlined and modernized design can satisfy the needs of any runner who needs a low-profile looking shoe. It provides the right amount of support and stability that is ideal for overpronation. The fact that it provides high energizing cushioning makes it ideal for the gym, cross-training, and road running.
It’s DNA Loft crash pads provide cushioning for every foot fall. This shoe comes with a unique mesh upper that provides a proven fit and structure. GTS 20 is available in a wide range of colors and sizes. It is available in wide array widths, and this includes extra-wide, wide, and narrow.
So, you can find a pair that fits your feet and matches your style. This footwear works perfectly on light trails and pavement. GTS 20 features the Guiderails holistic support system that focuses on the most injury-prone regions of your foot.
The Guiderails system keeps you moving while suppressing the excess movement. However, some users have complained that it fit loosens after running under the sun for miles.
Specs
- Sole: rubber
- Material: mesh-and-synthetic
- Size: 3.5-16 (US)
Pros
- Lightweight
- It has an appealing design
- It is comfortable footwear with springy toes
- It provides a reliable heel support
- It is a sturdy shoe
Cons
- It fits loosens after running for some few miles under the sun
Overall Rating – 4.8 out of 5
2. Vionic Men’s Walker — Best Men’s Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
Vionic walker comes with Orthaheel technology that is ideal for plantar fasciitis sufferers. This footwear is made from leather, and it has a unique, eye-catching plush look. Vionic Walker is available in a wide range of colors and sizes, so you can find a great pair that matches your style.
Unlike most walking and running shoes for plantar fasciitis, this pair comes with a manmade sole. Vionic walker’s sole is designed for comfort, and it offers great traction. The side and upper panels of this footwear are made from leather.
This shoe also features mesh and synthetic panels that can help with comfort and breathability. The Orthaheel technology provides the needed arch support that guarantees you a pain-free experience. Having been designed by a podiatrist, this shoe ensures that you get maximum comfort.
The rubber outsole and EVA midsole ensure that your feet and comfortable and with ample support. However, some wearers have complained about the pair’s quality.
Specs
- Material: leather or suede
- Sole: rubber
- Size: 5.5-15 (US)
Pros
- It provides ample arch support
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
- Well-cushioned
- It has a breathable upper
- Flexible
Cons
- Many users have complained about the quality of this footwear
Overall Rating – 4 out of 5
3. Orthofeet Men’s Orthopedic Leather Lincoln Center Dress Shoes
Orthofeet is known for manufacturing the best shoes for alleviating numerous feet issues, and this dress shoe is no exception. This Orthofeet shoes are great for an evening out or work. This shoe was engineered to ease numerous orthopedic issues. It caters for your feet’s comfort from the heel counter to toe box while looking stylish.
This shoe comes with a 2 months money back wear test. This means that you can test this pair for 60 days and if you don’t like it you will get your money back. For plantar fasciitis sufferers, these shoes offer an excellent orthopedic solution. It has lightweight soles with superior cushioning and ergonomic design.
Its orthotic insole features numerous cushioning layers and anatomical arch support. The orthotic insole provides pillowy support that enhances comfort and eases the pain on both your heel, foot and the entire knee.
If you are suffering throughout the day in the office or running your daily errands, try these shoes. You might be surprised by how effective they are when it comes to reducing pain. But, these orthopedic shoes need a break-in period.
Specs
- Material: leather
- Sole: rubber
- Size: 5-12 (US)
Pros
- Lightweight
- Well-cushioned
- They come with a 2 months money-back guarantee
- Durable
- Its lining is seams free making it a great option for individuals with arthritis or diabetes
Cons
- It requires a little break-in period
Overall Rating – 4.2 out of 5
4. ASICS Gel-Kayano 31
Asics Gel-Kayano 31 is a unique running shoe continues the brand’s legacy of providing exceptional support and cushioning for runners who need extra stability. Designed especially for overpronators but comfortable enough for neutral runners too, this shoe delivers both structure and softness—ideal for long-distance runs and daily training.
The Gel-Kayano 31 features a durable rubber outsole that grips well on a variety of surfaces and absorbs impact with each stride. Asics’ signature Gel cushioning system in the rearfoot and forefoot zones reduces stress on joints while maintaining a plush underfoot feel. This updated model also includes FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO foam, offering a lighter, more energetic bounce than previous versions.
For stability, the 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™ helps guide the foot through a more efficient gait cycle, making transitions from heel to toe feel smooth and natural. Meanwhile, the engineered stretch mesh upper hugs the foot securely while allowing breathability, adapting to the shape of your foot during movement.
A redesigned external heel counter improves rearfoot support and locks the heel in place, working together with the updated midsole for a more stable ride. The shoe is also available in wide and extra-wide widths, making it a solid choice for runners who need more room.
While the Kayano 31 offers cutting-edge comfort and performance, it comes at a premium price. However, runners who prioritize joint support, gait correction, and long-distance comfort often find it well worth the investment.
Specs
Here’s a breakdown of the technical details:
- Weight: ~10.7 oz (Men’s) / ~9.2 oz (Women’s)
- Drop: 10 mm
- Stack Height: 40 mm (heel), 30 mm (forefoot)
- Midsole: FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO foam
- Outsole: AHAR+ durable rubber
- Upper: Engineered mesh with adaptive fit zones
- Support Type: Stability (for overpronation)
- Widths Available: Standard, Wide, and Extra-Wide
- Best For: Long-distance training, recovery runs, daily use
- Gait Technology: 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™ for smoother transitions
Pros
- Superior stability and overpronation support
- Plush and adaptive cushioning with FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO foam
- Gel zones in heel and forefoot absorb high-impact shock
- Redesigned heel clutch for a locked-in fit
- Breathable, stretchy mesh upper adapts to foot shape
- Roomy toe box with wide size options
Cons
- Price point is on the higher end
- Heavier than neutral running shoes
- Not ideal for speed training or racing
- Break-in period may be needed for some wearers
Overall Rating – 4.6 out of 5
Conclusion
Gel-Kayano 31 is a great shoe that provides the needed comfort and support for men with plantar fasciitis.
5. ASICS Gel-Venture 7 Shoes
Gel-venture 7 is a great trail running footwear that provides excellent durability and traction. It is a great option for plantar fasciitis sufferers as it provides the needed cushioning and support. This footwear features an EVA midsole and gel technology for extra comfort and support.
The reverse-traction lug on this shoe’s outsole makes it ideal for running or walking in wet conditions. It features an Ortholite X-40 sockliner with high rebound properties.
The sockliner provides a high-level of breathability and excellent moisture management.Asics used a standard approach when designing Gel-venture 7’s upper. Its unique synthetic mesh design and partial leather framing promote flexibility.
For extra comfort, it has a padded footbed and roomier toe box. Its synthetic upper helps keep your feet dry at all times. This footwear is available in a wide range of colors and sizes. However, some users have complained that it can be a tad hefty.
Specs
- Sole: rubber
- Material: synthetic
- Size: 4-12 (US)
Pros
- It is a highly durable shoe that can serve you for months
- It has enough flexibility to manage foot movement
- The extra reinforcement along its sides and collar provides additional support
- It has a roomier toe box
- It is a comfortable shoe
Cons
- It can be a tad heavy for some users
Overall Rating – 4.6 out of 5
Conclusion
Gel-Venture 7 has everything you will ever need to tackle tough terrains. It offers great traction, cushioning and support to people prone to this plantar fasciitis.
6. Hoka One One Men’s Bondi 9
When it comes to comfort and cushioning, no shoe beats the Hoka footwear. Hoka produces comfy and pillowy shoes that can help alleviate the pain associated with plantar fasciitis. When it comes to Hoka’s wide and thick sole, these shoes don’t look like normal running shoes.
Luckily, all their fans don’t mind. Bondi 6’s unique cushioning slows your foot down as it hits the floor. And this helps reduce the pressure under your feet. In fact, Bondi 6 is the most highly cushioned running shoe from Hoka.
Bondi 9 is the best shoe for alleviating foot pain because it’s more rigid than all the other Hoka shoes. This shoe comes with an EVA marshmallow midsole that covers the full length of this footwear. The EVA midsole provides fantastic comfort and shock absorption.
This shoe provides a smooth ride that feels comfy and pillowy. Its rockered geometry makes up for the less bouncy and soft cushioning. Bondi 6’s upper is made from a thin mesh with tiny holes over the forefoot and instep. The mesh upper draws all the sweat from your foot while providing breathability.
The mesh is reinforced by a rubber that gives it a locked-in feeling. Bondi 6 is available in a wide range of colors and sizes. However, many people have questioned these shoes’ durability.
Specs
- Sole: rubber
- Material: mesh
- Size: 4-13.5 (US)
Pros
- Breathability
- Lightweight
- It provides a soft ride
- It has a comfortable upper
- It is more rigid than all the other Hoka shoes
Cons
- It is quite costly
- Many people question its durability
Overall Rating – 4.6 out of 5
7. Saucony Guide 17 Men’s Shoes
The Guide 17 introduces Center Path Technology, a modern approach to stability that replaces the traditional medial post. This technology utilizes a broader platform and higher sidewalls to guide your stride, providing a smoother and more comfortable experience.
The shoe features PWRRUN cushioning in the midsole and a PWRRUN+ sockliner, offering a soft and responsive feel that helps absorb impact and reduce stress on the plantar fascia.
An engineered mesh upper enhances breathability and provides a snug fit, accommodating various foot shapes and ensuring comfort during runs.
With a 6mm heel-to-toe drop and a stack height of 35mm in the heel and 29mm in the forefoot, the Guide 17 promotes a natural foot position, aiding in the alleviation of plantar fasciitis symptoms.
Specs
- Weight: 9.4 oz (men’s size 9), 8.1 oz (women’s size 8)
- Stack Height: 35 mm heel / 29 mm forefoot
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 6 mm
- Cushioning: PWRRUN midsole with PWRRUN+ sockliner
- Stability Technology: Center Path Technology (broad platform, higher sidewalls, asymmetric profile)
- Upper: Engineered mesh with gusseted tongue
- Fit: True to size; available in standard and wide widths
Pros
- Enhanced Stability: Center Path Technology provides effective, non-intrusive stability without traditional medial posts
- Comfortable Cushioning: PWRRUN midsole and PWRRUN+ sockliner offer soft, comfortable cushioning suitable for long distances
- Lightweight Design: Despite its stability features, the shoe maintains a competitive weight
- Smooth Transitions: Rockered geometry facilitates smoother heel-to-toe transitions
- Durability: High-quality materials enhance the shoe’s longevity
- Versatile Use: Suitable for daily training, long runs, and casual wear
Cons
- Limited Responsiveness: The shoe may not be responsive enough for speed sessions or races
- Grip Could Be Better: The outsole’s grip may not perform optimally on all surfaces
- Less Agile: The wider midsole may result in decreased agility compared to previous versions
- Exposed Midsole: Some areas of the midsole are exposed, which could affect durability over time
Overall Rating – 4.6 out of 5
Buyer Guide: How To Choose The Best Men’s Plantar Fasciitis Shoes
This is a painful condition that is characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia. Plantar fasciitis can be worsened by wearing the wrong shoes. This condition causes intense pain in the morning when making your first steps and then reduces.
It can return during the day when you get up after sitting for a very long time. And one of the best ways to ease this pain is wearing the right plantar fasciitis shoes.
But, selecting the right shoes can be quite challenging, especially with the many options available. Some of the main features to consider when buying the right kind of footwear include:
Roomier Toe Space
The toe box is a crucial part of your footwear that plays a key role in easing plantar fasciitis. The size of toe boxes varies with footwear, and it’s determined by the shoes’ shape and style. Tight or narrow toe boxes are irritating, and they can interrupt toe movement.
The right shoe must have a roomier toe box. Remember, tight shoes can cause other health issues like arthritis, nerve inflammation and pain
Arch Support
The arch of your feet is one of the key parts of your foot that absorbs the pressure when walking. And without proper arch support, you can develop a musculoskeletal problem. So, look for a pair that provides ample arch support. It is always a great idea to support low and high arches by wearing the right pair of shoes.
Flexibility and Comfort
Podiatrists advise people to wear flexible and comfortable plantar fasciitis footwear. After all, without comfort, all the other features of a shoe can go unnoticed. So, other than arch support, make sure it is comfortable and flexible. Remember, the shoes’ design and proper cushioning can increase flexibility and comfort.
Support
Well-cushioned shoes can provide the needed support, which is ideal for plantar fasciitis footwear. Proper support in walking shoes can help prevent overpronation or supination. Proper support can also help prevent other foot injuries.
Materials
The materials used to make certain footwear determines its durability. The material also determines the breathability and comfort levels of the shoes. The ones made using tough material can’t provide enough support.
Therefore, look for shoes made with breathable material that can stretch and accommodate any foot shape. Your ideal pair of shoes must have an EVA midsole.
Fit
Naturally, shoes must fit perfectly when you buy them. They must have roomier toe boxes with enough space for your toes.
People with narrow and wide shoes should look for shoes that offer a wide range of widths.
Final Thoughts
Plantar fasciitis is an excruciating condition that requires a lasting solution. It is a common condition among individuals with flat feet and high arches. The best solution for this condition that can help you manage or even prevent it is wearing the right shoes.
But, picking the right footwear can be quite a challenge, especially with the numerous options available. After all, the best men’s plantar fasciitis shoes incorporate several unique features. Remember, the right plantar fasciitis shoes must be well-cushioned and supportive.
Therefore, we created the above list of the best Men’s plantar fasciitis shoes for you. From our detailed research, we have concluded that Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 is the best shoes for plantar fasciitis for men. GTS 20 offers the right amount of support and stability for individuals with overpronation issues.
