Plantar fasciitis is a common disease that makes the heels hurt and hurt, especially for women who are on their feet for long amounts of time. Getting the right shoes can make a big difference in how well you can deal with and ease the pain of plantar fasciitis. The best shoes for women with plantar fasciitis are talked about in this piece, with a focus on features, top names, and buying tips.
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What does Plantar Fasciitis mean?
It is an injury of the plantar fascia, which is a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot from your heel bone to your toes. People with this disease often feel sharp pain in their heels, especially when they take their first few steps after getting up.
What Plantar Fasciitis Feels Like?
Heel pain: A sharp, stabbing pain at the bottom of the heel.
Morning pain: Increased pain during the first steps in the morning.
Pain that comes back after sitting or lying down: pain that gets worse when you stand up.
Increased pain after exercise: Discomfort that increases after physical activity.
Key Features of Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
- Arch Support Proper arch support is important for spreading pressure across your foot and reducing strain on the plantar tissue. Look for shoes with built-in hip support or orthotic-friendly designs that allow for the placement of custom insoles.
- Cushioning
Adequate padding absorbs shock and reduces pressure on the heel. Shoes with padded bottoms, midsoles, and heel pads provide the necessary comfort and safety. - Heel Support
A strong heel counter and stable heel shape help control excessive motion and keep proper foot posture, lowering stress on the plantar fascia. - Flexibility
Shoes should offer freedom in the forefoot to allow normal foot movement while keeping support in the midfoot and heel areas. - Roomy Toe Box
A roomy toe box ensures that your toes have enough room to move easily, avoiding extra pressure on the forefoot.
Top Shoes for Women with Plantar Fasciitis
1. Brooks Ghost 15
Overview: The Brooks Ghost 15 is a famous running shoe known for its better comfort and support, making it an excellent choice for women with plantar fasciitis.
Key Features:
Arch Support: Provides modest arch support ideal for neutral to slightly overpronated feet.
Padding: DNA Loft midsole for soft, flexible padding.
Heel Support: Firm heel counter for extra support.
Flexibility: Segmented crash pad provides smooth changes.
Why It’s Great: The mix of cushioning and support makes the Brooks Ghost 15 ideal for reducing heel pain and offering comfort during long runs or daily activities.
- ASICS Gel-Kayano 28
Overview: The ASICS Gel-Kayano 28 is a stability shoe made to offer excellent support and padding, making it great for those with heel fasciitis.
Key Features:
Arch Support: Dynamic DuoMax Support System for improved stability and arch support.
Cushioning: GEL technology in the heel and ankle for best stress reduction.
Heel Support: External heel clutch for better fit and support.
Flexibility: Flexible forefoot with supported midfoot shape.
Why It’s Great:
The ASICS Gel-Kayano 28 offers a mix of sturdiness and comfort, helping to relieve pain and support the foot’s natural movement.
- Vionic Walker Classic
Overview: The Vionic Walker Classic is a walking shoe especially made to offer cushioned support and ease, perfect for women with plantar fasciitis.
Key Features:
Arch Support: Built-in adjustable shoe with arch support.
comfort: EVA outsole for comfort and noise absorption.
Heel Support: Deep heel cup for support and balance.
Flexibility: Flexible base for natural movement.
Why It’s Great:
Vionic Walker Classic’s orthotic shape and deep heel cup provide excellent support and balance, lowering heel pain and improving general foot comfort.
Must Read: WHICH ARE THE BEST SHOES FOR LONG DISTANCE RUNNING?
- New Balance 990v5
Overview: The New Balance 990v5 is a flexible shoe that blends style, comfort, and support, making it a popular choice for controlling heel fasciitis.
Key Features:
Arch Support: ENCAP cushioning technology for arch support and stability.
support: Dual-density foam collar for extra support.
Heel Support: Firm heel block for better balance.
Flexibility: Flexible forefoot with a stable midfoot and heel.
Why It’s Great:
The New Balance 990v5 offers a comfy fit with great support, making it perfect for both casual wear and more busy activities.
- Hoka One One Bondi 7
Overview: The Hoka One One Bondi 7 is known for its extreme cushioning, making it an excellent choice for women with heel fasciitis who need extra shock absorption.
Key Features:
Arch Support: Moderate arch support with a comfy fit.
Comfort: Full-length EVA footbed for best comfort.
Heel Support: Stable heel shape for better balance.
Flexibility: Rocker shoe design for smooth changes.
Why It’s Great:
The Hoka One One Bondi 7’s thick cushioning offers excellent comfort and stress absorption, perfect for long walks and standing for extended times.
Tips for Choosing the Right Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
- Get a Proper Fit
Measure Your Feet: Ensure you measure both feet and choose the size that fits the bigger foot. Shoes that are too tight can exacerbate heel fasciitis symptoms.
Try on Shoes Later in the Day: Feet tends to swell throughout the day, so try on shoes in the afternoon or evening for a more accurate fit. - Consider Orthotics
Custom Orthotics: Custom orthotic inserts can provide unique support and padding, suited to your individual foot shape and needs.
Over-the-Counter Inserts: High-quality over-the-counter insoles can also provide major ease and support. - Prioritize Comfort
Immediate Comfort: Shoes should feel relaxed right out of the box. Avoid shoes that require a long break-in time.
Roomy Toe Box: Ensure the shoes have a large toe box to prevent extra pressure on the heel. - Check the Heel-to-Toe Drop
Low to Moderate Drop: A smaller heel-to-toe drop (4-8 mm) can reduce strain on the plantar fascia by supporting a more natural foot strike. - Test for Support and Stability
Firm Heel Counter: Press on the heel counter (the back part of the shoe) to ensure it’s firm and supported.
Midfoot Stability: Twist the shoe slowly; it should resist turning in the midfoot area to provide proper support.
Must Read: CAN BASKETBALL SHOES BE USED FOR RUNNING?
Summary
Choosing the right shoes is crucial for controlling heel pain and ensuring comfort during daily activities. Brands like Brooks, ASICS, Vionic, New Balance, and Hoka One One offer excellent choices that provide the necessary support, padding, and stability for women with plantar fasciitis. Remember to favor features like hip support, padding, heel stability, flexibility, and a big toe box when choosing shoes. By taking the time to find the right pair, you can relieve pain and enjoy more relaxed, pain-free steps.
