Plantar Fasciitis is more common among people than one could have ever anticipated. It is a foot condition that causes heel pain. It involves inflammation on the heel area where a thick band of tissue develops and produces the pain. No wonder people these days are continually searching for the best sandals for plantar fasciitis because of the humungous increase in the number of individuals suffering from the pain.
Since the condition is already too bad, you don’t want to make it worse by wearing the wrong footwear. Well, we will be sharing some of the most excellent products that ensure a healthy and relaxed walking experience for all those suffering from plantar fasciitis.
For the people troubled by plantar fasciitis, specific kind of footwear are available in the market. However, buyers are usually unaware of the features to look for in such shoes.
Therefore, first, we will discuss all these essential features and then take you to the recommendations.
Qualities of The Best Sandals For Plantar Fasciitis
While selecting the best sandals for plantar fasciitis, you should keep certain aspects in mind to make sure that you are picking the right product.
No wonder there are copious brands, aiming to manufacture the highest-quality footwear that is comfortable for the sufferer of plantar fasciitis but is these worth your money and time? The simple answer is NO. The brand following does have some role to place while one select footwear, but it’s about the overall quality of the product.
#1. Great Arch Support
The sandals that possess ample arch support can make a huge difference to bring comfort to the wearer. One should look for the shoes that have got a pronounced arch. Plus, it should be extended almost halfway across the foot so that the wearer can enjoy proper support.
The excellent arch support also mitigates recurring pains and eventually help in treating plantar fasciitis. The supportive footbeds available in good sandals are intended to follow the natural contours of the feet. Also, because of this feature, whether you are walking or standing, the sandals will help make everything simpler than ever.
The best sandals for plantar fasciitis are constructed with an innovative formula. The footbed is made with materials like latex or cork that reshapes and mold the foot while moving. It gives them sufficient comfort to provide you with a pain-free walking experience.
These footbeds also help in massaging the foot and cradling with every step because of the arch support.
You see, the standard sandals that we find online, that are not specifically for plantar fasciitis does not give any arch support. Cushioning is entirely out of the question. That is why this footwear brings endless pain to the wearer. Even if you don’t have plantar fasciitis, you should prefer wearing sandals with some cushioning and decent arch support.
#2. Cushioning
One of the standard features that sandals for plantar fasciitis should have is superior cushioning. This will provide protection from the shock that comes with every step you take. The sandals available these days comes with leading technology to absorb shock. It also decreases stress on joints and foot arch. Moreover, excellent cushioning will keep you comfortable all day long.
#3. Lightweight
The material used in the making of plantar fasciitis footwear should be light in weight. It will help in reducing pressure on the foot. Moreover, lightweight sandals are more flexible so that the feet can move with ease.
Another one of the essential features is that the inner material should be comfortable and breathable so that it can allow the feet to enjoy the fresh air. As far as the sole is concerned, these sandals must have a rubber sole to give better traction and risk-free walking.
So, these are some of the qualities of the best sandals for plantar fasciitis. Now, I would like to present a buying guide to help you purchase the best sandals.
Buying Guide To Select The Best Sandals For Plantar Fasciitis
First of all, while buying the sandals, make sure that they possess all the qualities that I have mentioned above. There are some other tips that you can use to enhance the purchase.
Style: You wouldn’t want to compromise on the looks in an urge to find the most comfortable sandals. Well, brands know that they want the same thing for you. That is why you can see unique styles and designs available in such shoes. Of course, these have thicker soles and don’t look sleek like standard footwear yet; you can find attractive colors, models, and styles made of different materials. The synthetic ones are also available in a massive range of colors and finishes. On top of that, these sandals are waterproof.
Usability: Well, the practicality element depends on the occasion for which you are buying these sandals. If you choose to wear them on rough terrains, then prefer buying something with multiple straps on the top to provide the best grip and hold to the feet. If you go near water a lot, then make sure sandals are waterproof. Also, make sure that the sole is made of rubber so that you don’t slip while moving on a wet surface.
Price: The price of plantar fasciitis footwear is usually high. You can afford a branded pair of shoes by spending such amount. If you don’t plan to wear these sandals on a routine basis, then you will probably think before spending too much. However, if you are indulged in everyday walking and travel a lot then don’t hesitate in buying an expensive pair of sandals because these are going to be extremely helpful in making daily commute comfortable.
10 Best Sandals For Plantar Fasciitis – Reviewed
Model | For | Rating |
---|---|---|
Orthaheel Women’s Tide Thong Sandals | Women | 4.8 |
Taos Women’s Trulie Wedge Sandals | Women | 4.9 |
FitFlop Lulu Thong Sandals | Women | 4.8 |
Dansko Women's Vienna Slide Sandal | Women | 4.7 |
Vionic Lizbeth Thong Sandals | Women | 4.6 |
ECCO Men’s Yucatan Sandal | Men | 4.9 |
Spenco Yumi Flip Flop Sandal | Men | 4.8 |
KEEN Men’s Newport H2 Sandals | Men | 4.7 |
Sole Sports Flip | Men | 4.6 |
Drew Shoe Men's Warren Sandals | Men | 4.6 |
Its time for me to make some strong recommendations to help you make an easy purchase. These sandals are selected after thorough research and personal usage. I hope you find them useful:
Best Plantar Fasciitis Sandals For Women
Let’s first take a look at the leading options available for women.
#1. Orthaheel Women’s Tide Thong Sandals
The first product that I would like to bring in light is this amazing flip flop sandals from Orthaheel. Orthaheel technology is used in the manufacturing of the sandals so that the wearer can stay at ease all day. This way, there is the least stress on the heel, and it reduces the complication of plantar fasciitis.
Other essential features are EVA cushioning footbed to give utmost comfort, padded neoprene upper lining to make sure that feet get sufficient air from below, and soft polyurethane upper for enhanced relaxation. The design of the flip flops makes sure that you get the most excellent fit.
The medium density EVA midsole is not only lightweight but also makes this footwear shock absorbent. It reduces the stress on knees and ankles. The sandals ensure convenient alignment of the feet so that you can walk naturally without any pressure.
As far as stylishness is concerned, these look great for the routine wearing. Also, you can wear these on a day out with friends. The sole is made of synthetic material, so I don’t recommend these on a rainy day or anywhere near water.
Pros
Great style
Gives natural walking experience
Reduces the stress levels
Sufficient cushioning for everyday comfort
Cons
Sole made with a synthetic material which makes it a poor choice to be used in wet regions
#2. Taos Women’s Trulie Wedge Sandals
For the women that are always on their feet, this one from Taos is also a great choice to make. There are plenty of styles and colors available for you to make a selection. There is no need to compromise on the desire of wearing super modish sandals, even if you are desperately looking for comfy footwear.
The 1-¾” heel is merely enough to give you a little lift required. Also, because of the thicker sole, you can choose to stroll on the rougher terrains without worrying that they might initiate the pain in your heel.
Furthermore, the polyurethane cork footbed is not just lightweight but also absorbs the shock as you take a step. The cushioning is also done in a superior way to ensure that the feet are at rest for the whole day.
The best thing about Taos women’s sandals is that they don’t look like as if made for medical conditions. They look equally stylish as any other fancy footwear in your rack. With this, you don’t have to compromise on the looks and the quality is top-notch.
Pros
Great in looks
Works best for plantar fasciitis patients
Suitable for rougher terrains
Extremely comfortable
Cons
Material of the straps could have been better
#3. FitFlop Lulu Thong Sandals
For women, most of the choices available in sandals are in Flip Flop styles. Trust me; these are easy to wear and take off, especially if you want to buy for someone old in age. The Lulu sandals are crafted with expert design and simple looks. There are a handful of models available online that you can check out.
It has got a classic triangle at the top made of faux leather material. The upper of the sandals have a microfiber lining to ensure that walking is hassle-free and as comfortable as it can be. The height enhancing midsole gives you sufficient lift that you want.
Also, the midsole is made with biomechanically engineered Microwobbleboard technology. This technology helps in absorbing the shock and providing utmost comfort to the wearer. The midsole will also distribute underfoot pressure immediately.
The built-in arch contour gives a fantastic fit. These sandals go pretty well with all kind of attires.
The sole is made of rubber so you can rest assured while walking on the wet area that these will not make you slip and fall.
Pros
Comes with Microwobbleboard technology
Classic styling
Rubber sole
Shock absorbing
Cons
People with wider feet might have sizing concerns
#4. Dansko Women’s Vienna Slide Sandal
Sometimes, we also have to go out to a party. But being a plantar fasciitis patient, you cannot take out your stilettos and wear them. So, we need something super fancy and yet compatible with our foot condition. The search concludes here with these beautiful sandals from Dansko.
Starting with the style of the sandals, I would say that any women will fall in love with the two-color rubber outsole and mesmerizing designing. I got these for my mother, and she wears them everywhere. This one has got two adjustable faux leather straps on the top that gives you a fantastic fit.
3M Scotchgard protector technology is used to prevent staining on the sandals. The inners are designed with leather lining to ensure comfort all day long. The shoes are contoured, have molded cork and lightweight EVA midsole wedge with PU foam footbed to give you superior support.
The cushioning is also done such that you can choose any terrain to walk and feet will remain at ease. The synthetic sole is although great but does not perform well on wet areas.
Pros
Jaw-dropping designing
Stain resistant technology
EVA midsole for superior comfort
Suitable for rougher terrains
Cons
The forefoot is too narrow
#5. Vionic Lizbeth Thong Sandals
Vionic is one such brand that keeps comfort as its priority. For all-day wear, this model from Vionic is a fantastic choice. This one is dressed in luxurious leather, metal embellishments, and adjustable back strap so that these can fit most of the women.
About the other features, the EVA midsole is flexible and lightweight. It acts as a shock absorber and minimizes stress on the ankles, knees, and feet. These sandals are also quite long-lasting. They have got durable rubber outsole with tread patterns. This way, you can wear them on rougher surfaces and expect great traction.
If you are among the people that continuously experience pain on the ball area of the foot, then these will suit you the best. Since we all have to stand and walk a lot, these sandals will be your most exceptional companion, even if you have pain-free feet. They provide excellent arch support and keeps you comfortable throughout the day.
These sandals are not only showy but also does the job of relieving the pain entirely. Women in their 30s would love to have them because of their stunning looks.
Pros
Rubber outsole
Excellent control
Great comfort
Available in two colors
Cons
The straps are too thin to provide great hold
Best Plantar Fasciitis Sandals For Men
Now, without further ado, let’s take a look at the leading options available for men.
#1. ECCO Men’s Yucatan Sandal
You can find dozens of sandals from ECCO, and they all are manufactured with uncompromised technology. For men that like to walk a lot, these sandals make an appropriate choice. This model is available in a variety of styles and sizes. So, the selection is vast, and you can make your pick.
The lightweight sandals are made of two prime materials, leather and fabric. The upper mesh is made of leather while the inner lining is done with fabric to give you a smooth walking experience.
While it is not waterproof, you can expect these to dry up pretty fast after every wash. However, all the colors available in this model are pretty dark, except for a few. This means that the washing will be an occasional thing.
Furthermore, this pair features PU midsole with receptor technology to reduces stress on the joints and absorb shock. The rubber outsole is great for providing excellent traction. Also, you can wear them while stepping out for hiking and other activities.
Pros
Great for everyday wear
Reduces stress on the joints
Available in various styles and sizes
Leather outsole to give fantastic looks
Cons
Not waterproof
#2. Spenco Yumi Flip Flop Sandal
In the flip flop style, this model from Spenco is an unmissable option. If your only motive is to get something with highest arch support then consider them as your savior. These flip flops are designed to provide great support and comfort to the wearer. I recommend them for your father or grandfather as they will highly appreciate the relaxation these sandals offer.
It has a compression molded contoured footbed to make your feet feel fine throughout the day.
Spenco is known for manufacturing medical footwear that is recommended by the doctors and physicians to the people suffering from intense foot pains. These are extremely light in weight and fits in the feet seamlessly.
Because there is not enough heel, I don’t recommend you to wear these on rough and rocky terrains. Also, the synthetic sole does not make these suitable for wet areas as well.
As I said before, these are the kind of sandals that your grandparents will like to wear. The deep heel cupping will provide additional support to the wearer.
Pros
Great support
Amazing comfort
Suitable for plantar fasciitis patients
Amazing arch support
Cons
Looks are not so appealing
Not recommended for rocky terrains
#3. KEEN Men’s Newport H2 Sandals
In a standard form of sandals, this product from Keen is also an important choice that you can make. These are closed toe sandals for people sufferings from plantar fasciitis. Its looks are decent and have got a mesh of fabric straps on the top that covers the whole foot.
The toe area of the sandal is larger, and the outsoles offer better traction. Although these are not water-resistant, let alone waterproof, but the material is easy to dry. This ensures that you can enjoy water sports as a few hours of keeping them in sunlight and they will be prepared for the next use.
If you are fond of hiking then also this pair will live up to your expectations. The sandals are extremely flexible and breathable.
The design is firm yet lightweight. The arch support is exceptionally suitable for plantar fasciitis. The cushioning is also done intelligently so that the entire foot is in resting position for the whole day.
Pros
Easy drying mechanism
Great for all kind of activities
Suitable for avid hikers
Amazing construction
Cons
Size has to be picked carefully
#4. Sole Sports Flip
American Podiatric Medical Association has honored the Sole flips as among the best footwear for plantar fasciitis. The weight of the flip flops is extraordinarily manageable and light, however, the construction is sturdy. With the orthopedic footbed, it makes sure that the feet are at comfort for prolonged walking sessions.
The heel cups ensure the most excellent grip and support to the heels. For the forefoot, the cushioning is done thoughtfully. The footwear is waterproof and comes with the rubber sole. It is extremely safe to be used in wet areas.
The stripes at the top are rigid and might not be as comfortable for everyone. However, some people feel that the rigid straps give them a better grip and hold the feet in place. Because of the straps, you can also enjoy the fantastic arch support.
As far as looks are concerned, you can enjoy the stunning appeal of the sandals and can wear them anywhere you like for casual strolling. However, since these are flip flops, you cannot wear them at your workplace or parties.
Pros
Extremely durable
Specifically for foot pains
Stunning looks
Great comfort
Cons
Straps are rigid and may cause blisters
#5. Drew Shoe Men’s Warren Sandals
So, the last model that I am going to recommend is these fantastic sandals from Drew. Men with plantar fasciitis find these sandals extremely comfortable and compatible with their condition. The looks are super gorgeous. You can wear these on casual days while hanging out with your friends or even on adventure trips.
These sandals give you the arch support that you need to get going. The removable cushioned footbed makes it different from others in the list. This way, you can also enjoy effortless cleaning. The footbed can also be replaced whenever you want, and insertions are super comfortable.
The outsole offers the most exceptional traction and comfort. Also, it is made with the technology to help absorb the shock. There are three adjustable straps with hook and loop closure so that foot can remain secure in rough surfaces. The sandals have got everything right for the plantar fasciitis sufferers.
Pros
Shock absorbent
Classy looks
Great in providing comfort
Perfect arch support
Cons
Sizing problems
Conclusion
I walk a lot. My favorite sandals from this list are Ecco men’s sandals. Well, the reasons are apparent. They give me great comfort and even after wearing for the entire day, my feet never feel tired. The looks are great and believe me, I wear them quite often, even when I have to go to the market or anywhere else, except for the office. There is a dress code in my office.
I got my mother a pair of Orthaheel thong sandals. She said those were amazing. Being old, she needed something lightweight and extremely comfortable, so I picked these.
Well, all the other models mentioned in my list are equally great. I recommend all these solely because they give you a pain-free walking experience. Try these, and you will not have to regret.
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