Are you suffering from persistent heel pain? If so, you're not alone. Heel pain is a common affliction that can make daily tasks and even moderate exercise challenging. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including plantar fasciitis,injury, flat feet, and more. Whether you're an athlete, a professional on their feet, or simply someone who stands a lot throughout the day, finding the best shoes for heel pain that offer adequate support, cushioning, and comfort can make a significant difference!
The shoes you choose can have a crucial impact on your overall wellbeing.
Here's a closer look at some of the best options to consider if you're dealing with heel pain:
- Sovella PF Sandals
Sovella PF Sandals are a popular choice for those looking for comfort and support. Made from rebound foam for shock absorption, these sandals mimic the natural motion of walking, which can help alleviate stress on your feet. The contoured footbed with arch support and heel cradle provides a cozy spot for your heels and arches, while their lightweight design won't weigh down your feet as you move around.
- New Balance 990v6
New Balance 990v6 is a high-quality shoe that focuses on stability and cushioning, perfect for those who are heavy or active. The 990v6 features motion control, which can be beneficial for maintaining healthy posture and stability. The midfoot cushioning provides instant comfort, while an elevated heel counter helps to reduce stress on your plantar fascia. With its removable insoles, these shoes can be personalized to accommodate your specific needs, making them a great fit for those with foot issues such as pronation.
- HOKA Bondi 8
HOKA Bondi 8 continues to impress with their cushioning, offering a ton of shock absorption and a smooth, balanced ride over any distance. Their signature HOKA Meta-Rocker technology mimics your natural walking motion, allowing your foot to relax while the shoe works hard to keep up. The ultra-soft memory foam collar conforms to a wide variety of ankles and cradles the Achilles in plush comfort, making this one of the best shoes for heel pain, regardless of your activity level.
- Aetrex Jillian
With their "Healthy 3" technology, Aetrex shoes and sandals offer incredible comfort and support. The Jillian features built-in arch support that is tailored to the needs of individuals with heel pain. The memory foam insole is customizable to your specific needs, providing targeted relief to the heel area. Its rubber outsoles offer superior grip and stability, making it a great option for anyone who wants additional support while maintaining a stable and comfortable foot.
- Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 is a versatile shoe that combines responsive cushioning with a soft crashpad, providing a touch of springy underfoot while cushioning each footfall. A firm heel counter supports your heel and contributes to great heel stability. With its removable footbed, the Adrenaline GTS 23 is easy to adjust for additional arch support or to accommodate custom orthotics, making it a good fit for those with foot health concerns such as excessive heel lift.
- Dansko Henriette
Dansko Henriette is a sports-inspired walking shoe that blends classic elegance with sporty performance. It's designed to offer stability and comfort, helping to alleviate heel pain by supporting your feet through the heel, arch, and entire foot. The durable rubber outsoles and unique midfoot design provide superior shock absorption and support, making Henriette a great option for those who spend their day on their feet.
- ECCO Soft 7
ECCO Soft 7 represents a new era in footwear innovation. This sandal offers top-notch durability and comfort, featuring a built-in arch support and a lightweight design. Its soft, comfortable lining construction ensures a perfect inner climate, making it an excellent choice for those with plantar fasciitis or other foot pain issues. Whether you're walking, jogging, or just relaxing, the ECCO Soft 7 provides the ultimate comfort and support for your feet.
- OluKai Ohana
OluKai Ohana is proud to offer a line of sandals and flipflops inspired by island-inspired designs. These shoes are made with handcrafted quality and feature an built-in arch support, which makes them a great option for those who are dealing with heel pain, plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and bunions. Their compression-molded EVA midsole footbed provides anatomical fit and sustained comfort, ensuring that your feet stay comfortable from morning to night.
While each of these shoes possesses its own unique advantages, the best shoe for heel pain is one that caters to your specific needs and preferences. Whether it's a lightweight, supportive sandal or a heavy-duty athletic shoe, the key is to find a product that provides the necessary cushioning, stability, comfort, and support required to alleviate your heel pain and help you maintain a healthy, active lifestyle.
Remember to always size your shoes correctly and opt for those that offer plenty of room for your toes. With the right pair of shoes, you can say goodbye to heel pain and hello to a more comfortable and enjoyable walk—or run—each day.
For those with plantar fasciitis, in particular, it's crucial to choose shoes that offer support for the plantar fascia and adequately cushioned soles. The best shoes for plantar fasciitis should have a deep heel cup to provide cushioning, a firm arch support, and an appropriate heel height that doesn't put extra strain on the plantar fascia. Additionally, using an over-the-counter orthotic insole can provide additional support to the plantar arch, further mitigating heel pain.
While we've discussed some of the best shoes for heel pain, it's important to note that every individual's foot is unique, and it may require a different approach to find the perfect fit. The key is to focus on fit, comfort, and support, and to experiment with different shoes to determine which one works best for you.
