7 Best Running Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis

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 standardised Dremel test. So those looking for a shoe with a more durable upper better look elsewhere.

No shoe can match Brooks Glycerin GTS 21 in terms of cushioning among our lab-tested plantar fasciitis walking shoes. It is the real deal not only in securing our foot alignment but also in making us feel like we’re floating on clouds. We love the low-ley support it delivers. 

We experienced muted ground impact and subtly guided movements in our runs. Diving deeper into the DNA LOFT v3 cushion, we found it elevates the experience with an above-average 37.2/26.5 mm stack height, providing plush comfort that's unusual for stability shoes. The foam maintains a balanced 20.9 HA, offering softness without excess mushiness

The GuideRails system forms the core support structure, integrating firm foam elements in the heel and sidewalls to boost rigidity. This innovation ensures essential stability, curbing excessive movements and reducing injury risks. Our manual tests show outstanding resistance to twisting, earning a top 4/5 rating, while the heel boasts maximum rigidity with a perfect 5/5 score.

Providing us with a substantial area to find our balance is the extensive 117.3/100.2 mm base. Surprisingly, this stability shoe is only 0.8 oz (23g) heavier than its neutral version—a remarkable figure for all the support and confidence it brings.

However, the upper feels extra warm and is suited for cooler climates. Those who prioritise ventilation are better off with more breathable shoes.

Those of us with plantar fasciitis greatly appreciated the 31st Gel Kayano’s one-of-a-kind stable ride. Its significant amount of well-loved FF Blast+ cushioning felt like home, while its revolutionary 4D Guidance System maintained our proper foot alignment. Even our lab results prove it’s easy to fall in love with this shoe’s ideal balance of comfort and support.

GK31 aced its stability features, namely the non-intrusive 4D Guidance System and the extensive landing base. The former uses a softer foam under our arches for custom support and protection, relieving us from unwanted pressure and pain. Meanwhile, the midsole sidewalls and extra wide 122.1/97.6 mm forefoot and heel reassure us with steady landings.

This ASICS redefined the traditional stability shoe by adding tonnes of comfort to its midsole. The ride feels highly plush and impact-protected with its tall 39.3/27.8 mm stack packed with the brand’s softest foam. We ran long miles without counting since our legs remained fresh, proven by our 27.1% softer-than-average durometer reading.

Adding to GK31’s charm is its natural feel that boosts comfort. Despite being a maximalist, it doesn’t resist our foot flexion. Our bend test proves it’s 14.4% more malleable than average.

Unfortunately, the steep 11.5 mm offset may not suit non-heel strikers. The shoe’s features, such as the PureGEL, will best be experienced by those who land on their heels.

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 centred. 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 test 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 levelled 4.1 mm heel drop. We noticed a more even weight distribution and less localised 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, maximising its potential for comfort. Our calliper 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 13 emerged as our top-value shoe for people with plantar fasciitis. This lightweight stability shoe delivers features beyond its £140 price tag, offering the right combination of gentle support and comfortable cushioning that protects and relieves plantar fasciitis-afflicted runners. 

At 9.3 oz (264g), the GT 2000 13 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 heel and high torsional rigidity to promote balance and sure-footedness. Our calliper confirms the heel is 11.5 mm wider than average. This non-intrusive innovation doesn’t demand much attention, yet we know it is there when we need it.

What’s hard to miss is the FF Blast+ cushioning’s plush and responsive ride. Our durometer shows a soft 18.5 HA measurement, with the PureGEL integrated into the heel to elevate comfort and soften landing impact. This feature, along with its wide heel, emphasises this shoe is geared towards rear strikers.

However, it still lacks the extra kick and excitement for faster efforts. Those who prefer more responsive shoes should check elsewhere.