7 Best Running Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis in 2024

The Adrenaline GTS 23 is hands down the best overall shoe for people with plantar fasciitis. It has rock-solid support, ample cushioning, and high heel to toe drop that are ideal for runners who need that added bit of protection for their feet.

And it's hard to find shoes that keep feet protected as well as the GTS 23. Its GuideRails system did a great job keeping the foot from rolling too far inwards or outwards during our runs. The shoe's midsole width in the forefoot and heel are also 4.5 mm and 7 mm wider than average, and we appreciated the safe landing platform that the wide base provided.

The GTS 23 has a good amount of cushioning in the heel with 34.1 mm of foam, which we measured to be 20.7% softer than the average shoe. That combination of cushioning and comfort makes the GTS 23 ideal for cruising along in easy runs.

The GTS 23 also has a 12.6 mm heel to toe drop, which is 41.5% taller than the average running shoe. This is great since shoes with a higher drop help to put weight more in the forefoot and away from the plantar in the heel.

However, the GTS 23 doesn't quite hold up in terms of toebox durability. The shoe scored 1 out of 5 as the mesh upper was significantly destroyed in our standardized Dremel test. So those looking for a shoe with a more durable upper better look elsewhere.

The Glycerin GTS 20 is the stability version of Brooks’ popular and versatile daily trainer and is just as reliable and comfy. This incredibly supportive shoe pampers our feet throughout our daily runs. It’s truly second to none as having the best cushioning for plantar fasciitis.  

With a durometer reading of 23.4 HA, the Glycerin GTS 20’s midsole is about as soft as our current lab average. However, the shoe’s robust stack, which we measured to be 0.9 mm and 3.1 mm higher than average at the forefoot and heel respectively, means we had lots of protective foam underfoot during our test runs. The result is a ride that feels extremely protective and softer than the durometer leads us to believe. 

Additionally, the Glycerin GTS 20 employs Brooks’ GuideRails system, in the form of firm pieces of foam integrated into either side of the midsole, for excellent support and stability. This manifests itself in a high level of torsional rigidity, which we scored 4 out of 5 in our manual assessment. By mitigating how much our foot is able to move laterally, the shoe helps us maintain proper alignment during our stride and, in that way, prevents worsening any foot injuries. 

Tipping the scale at 10.9 oz (309g), the Glycerin GTS 20 is certainly a chunky monkey. This is especially the case for those used to neutral road shoes, which on average weigh 9.42 oz (267g). Even stability shoes tend to weigh in under 10.6 oz (300g).

Those of us with plantar fasciitis greatly appreciated the 30th Gel Kayano’s one-of-a-kind stable ride. Its substantial amount of well-loved FF Blast+ cushioning felt like home, while its 4D Guidance System maintained our proper foot alignment. Even our lab results agree that it’s hard not to love this shoe’s perfect balance of comfort and support.

GK30 aced its support features, namely the 4D Guidance System and the extensive landing base. It uses a softer foam under our arches for custom support and protection. This relieves the pressure, effectively preventing inflammation and pain. Ensuring steady landings is the extra wide forefoot and heel that has an extra 10.9/15.1 mm vs. the average.

This ASICS redefined the traditional stability shoe by adding tons of comfort to its midsole. With a tall stack packed with the brand’s softest cloud-like foam, the ride feels so luxurious and forgiving. We ran long miles without counting since our legs remained fresh. Our durometer confirms it’s 30.2% softer than average. Adding to GK30’s charm is the top-notch breathability of the well-ventilated upper., making it a pleasant place to be in for long hours.

Unfortunately, this maximalist weighs a heavy 10.7 oz (303g). Not everyone needs this much cushioning. We recommend checking for lighter options that also offer stability.

In our test runs, Hoka Gaviota 5 delivered a comfortable in-shoe experience and consistent support suited for runners with instability and arch issues. Its cushioning is a strategic combination of firm and soft elements to provide comfort and surefootedness, while the wide midsole and unrestricted upper are extra accommodating. Our lab agrees that Gaviota 5 perfectly fits the needs of wide-footed runners with plantar fasciitis.

Each footfall of ours was caught by a generous amount of cushioning underneath. It saved our legs from feeling bruised due to repetitive landings and kept the ride smooth sailing and centered. The plush 12.9 HA layer enhances comfort, while the second firm 22.0 HA foam ensures controlled strides to prevent injuries.

The inclusive midsole measures 11.7/16.3 mm wider than average in the forefoot and heel so that our landings are safe and sound. Another stability element is the H-Frame that guides our foot alignment so we don’t roll our ankles and move excessively.

We never endured the cramped-up feeling since the spacious toebox and airy upper feel refreshing. We had room for natural toe splay and optimal airflow to prevent hotspots and blisters. Our smoke and light tests confirm a perfect rating in terms of breathability.

Its minimal 2.2 mm drop may bring discomfort to heel-strikers. We warn caution to runners who aren’t used to low-drop shoes.

Hoka redefines the traditional heavy stability shoe with Arahi 6. A breath of fresh air on our feet, it offers consistent and subtle support through its balanced cushion and vast platform. The lab results show this but it's our actual runs that cemented Arahi 6 as the best lightweight shoe for runners with plantar fasciitis.

While most stability shoes weigh above 10.0 oz (283g) and the average running shoe is 9.5 oz (268g), Arahi 6 boasts a feathery 8.9 oz (252g). With its high-density foam and spacious platform, we’re surprised by how airy it is. 

Zooming into the midsole, Arahi 6 integrates the J-Frame technology — a firmer J-shaped foam outside the midsole for better balance and support. To enhance comfort, Hoka provides enough stack to mute out ground feel. It’s notably higher than average in the forefoot leading to a more leveled 4.1 mm heel drop. We noticed a more even weight distribution and less localized tension.

Further ensuring a steady ride is the platform that runs 2.1/7.4 mm wider than average in the forefoot and heel. This gives all types of foot-strikers enough room to land more stably.

We’re not too convinced with the outsole as it lacks the coverage to last long and the soft rubber for reliable grip.

Contrary to its name, Nike Structure 25 is devoid of any rigid sidewalls and shanks, carrying a cushioned midsole instead. We were pleasantly surprised by how it seamlessly combines a smooth and stable ride with gentle, non-intrusive elements that help align our feet, making it particularly well-suited for runners dealing with plantar fasciitis who require additional comfort.

Home to Nike’s Cushion 3.0 foam, we enjoyed pillowy landings and slightly springy toe-offs. Our lab reveals the cushioning is a combination of height and plushness, maximizing its potential for comfort. Our caliper shows the stack rises to 36.7/24.6 mm while our durometer confirms our sensation with a soft 17.0 HA reading. We found the shoe to be supportive for easy runs up to LSDs.

Our forward motions feel effortless due to the malleable midsole, which our bend test reveals is 24.6% more flexible than average. To ensure our strides remain balanced and stable, Structure 25 adds width to its base and stiffens the midsole torsionally. Our manual assessment reveals a 4/5 score, making it almost impossible to twist our ankles. Meanwhile, the midsole is a wide 116.4/95.3 mm.

However, the dense and padded upper makes us crave more airflow during warmer days. This pair feels comfiest during cooler seasons.

After miles of running and hours of lab testing, the ASICS GT 2000 12 reveals itself as our top-value shoe for people with plantar fasciitis. This lightweight stability shoe delivers features beyond its $140 price tag. It has the right combination of gentle support and comfortable cushioning that protects and relieves plantar fasciitis-afflicted runners. 

At 9.7 oz (275g), the GT 2000 12 is lighter than the average stability shoe (10.3 oz/293g) due to its less pronounced supportive elements. Its 3D Guidance System combines a wide landing base with a strategic midsole geometry to promote surefootedness. Our caliper confirms the forefoot and heel are 6.1 mm wider than average. This innovation is non-intrusive as it didn’t demand much attention, yet we knew it was certainly there when needed.

What’s hard to miss is FF Blast+ cushioning’s balanced and responsive ride. Our durometer shows a 25.1 HA measurement, just the perfect amount of firmness for support. To elevate comfort, GT 2000 12 integrates the PureGEL into the heel to soften landing impact and relieve pressure off our heels. 

However, what we find lacking is a more breathable shoe for warmer days. We recommend using this pair for cooler weather.