A plantar plate tear is a painful injury affecting the ligament under the ball of your foot, often beneath the second toe. This condition can cause forefoot pain, swelling, and the feeling of walking on a marble. It’s commonly triggered by overuse, improper footwear, or biomechanical stress—especially in people with high arches or long second toes.
Wearing supportive, cushioned shoes is one of the most important non-surgical ways to manage a plantar plate tear. Look for shoes that offer a stiff sole to reduce flexion, a wide toe box, plenty of forefoot cushioning, and good overall stability.
Here are five of the best shoes available in 2025 for supporting recovery from a plantar plate tear.
Summary Table: Recommended Shoes for Plantar Plate Tear
| Shoe Name | Best For | Key Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hoka Bondi 9 | Maximum cushioning for daily wear | Meta-Rocker, EVA midsole, stable platform | See latest prices |
| ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 | Neutral stride, running/walking | FF Blast+ Eco, GEL cushioning, roomy fit | See latest prices |
| New Balance 880v15 | Balanced daily trainer | Fresh Foam X, durable, breathable upper | See latest prices |
| Brooks Glycerin 22 | Plush comfort with stability | Nitrogen-infused foam, secure heel | See latest prices |
| Saucony Triumph 22 | Long-distance cushioned comfort | PWRRUN PB midsole, wide platform, soft upper | See latest prices |
Here is a detailed look at the best shoes for plantar plate tear.
Hoka Bondi 9
Best for: Maximum cushioning and support during daily walking or standing
The Hoka Bondi 9 is a go-to choice for those recovering from a plantar plate tear thanks to its thick EVA midsole, rocker bottom, and ultra-cushioned feel. It features an updated rearfoot Active Foot Frame for added heel stability and smoother transitions, helping reduce the pressure on the forefoot. The engineered mesh upper provides breathability and structure, and the wider base improves stability—a must for foot injuries. While a bit bulky, the comfort and shock absorption are unmatched, especially for individuals on their feet all day.
Specs
- Midsole: Supercritical EVA foam
- Upper: Re-engineered knit mesh
- Outsole: Durabrasion rubber
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 5mm
Pros
- Maximum cushioning for forefoot protection
- Stable and supportive base
- Smooth transitions reduce toe strain
- Excellent for long hours of wear
Cons
- Bulky design
- Higher price point
Men’s version | Women’s version
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27
Best for: Neutral runners and walkers looking for plush, consistent comfort
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 continues to deliver comfort and support with thoughtful upgrades. The FF Blast+ Eco foam provides a responsive yet soft underfoot feel. GEL cushioning under the heel and forefoot absorbs shock effectively—critical for minimizing impact during walking or light running. The jacquard mesh upper is softer and roomier than past models, and the durable outsole handles various surfaces well. Though firmer than previous iterations, it still offers excellent comfort for those managing plantar plate pain.
Specs
- Midsole: FF Blast+ Eco foam + GEL
- Upper: Jacquard mesh
- Outsole: AHAR Plus rubber
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8mm
Pros
- Roomy toe box
- Excellent shock absorption
- Eco-friendly cushioning
- Long-lasting durability
Cons
- Slightly heavier than some competitors
- Premium price tag
Men’s version | Women’s version
New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v15
Best for: Versatile daily wear with a balanced ride
The New Balance 880v15 offers an ideal mix of cushioning and responsiveness, making it perfect for those transitioning through the healing phase of a plantar plate tear. The dual-density Fresh Foam X midsole reduces ground impact and enhances support under the forefoot. A breathable engineered mesh upper keeps your foot cool, while the durable outsole ensures stability. The shoe runs true to size and suits a wide range of foot shapes thanks to its roomy fit options.
Specs
- Midsole: Fresh Foam X
- Upper: Engineered mesh
- Outsole: Blown rubber
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 10mm
Pros
- Consistent cushioning
- Excellent durability
- Available in wide sizes
- Great for walking and standing
Cons
- Lacks rocker geometry
- Basic styling
Men’s version | Women’s version
Brooks Glycerin 22
Best for: Maximum plush comfort with a stable ride
Brooks Glycerin 22 now features nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam for an ultra-plush, springy ride. It’s softer in the heel and slightly firmer at the forefoot—ideal for reducing pain from plantar plate issues. The upper is stretchable and breathable, and the wider platform adds to the shoe’s overall stability. Despite being on the heavier side, the cushioning quality makes this shoe feel luxurious and protective, particularly for recovery and all-day wear.
Specs
- Midsole: Nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3
- Upper: Engineered mesh
- Outsole: Durable rubber
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 10mm
Pros
- Ultra-soft underfoot feel
- Good midfoot lockdown
- Smooth ride with high energy return
- Available in wide sizes
Cons
- Slightly heavy
- Higher cost
Men’s version | Women’s version
Saucony Triumph 22
Best for: Long-distance comfort with a performance boost
The Triumph 22 introduces Saucony’s PWRRUN PB midsole foam—previously found only in their racing shoes—to this daily trainer, resulting in improved energy return and reduced weight. This foam offers a soft feel without being overly mushy, making it ideal for relieving stress on the forefoot. The Triumph 22 also boasts a more accommodating fit, especially in the midfoot, and includes a plush tongue and heel collar. It’s stable, durable, and surprisingly peppy for a max-cushion shoe.
Specs
- Midsole: PWRRUN PB
- Upper: Engineered mesh
- Outsole: Blown rubber
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 10mm
Pros
- Cushioned and energetic ride
- Improved upper fit and padding
- Wide platform for better stability
- Long-lasting comfort
Cons
- Slightly heavier than expected
- Not ideal for speedwork
