If you’re a runner suffering from plantar fasciitis you know how painful the condition can be.

Without the proper support the fascia can even tear. Women tend to suffer from this condition more than men and those who are overweight are also more susceptible.

Finding a pair of running shoes that will help your plantar fasciitis instead of making it worse is very important. But how do you find good shoes for plantar fasciitis?

There are several factors that go into finding the right pair of shoes and not only will we cover those later, we will also show our top rated plantar fasciitis running shoes that are best for this condition.

Best Women’s Running Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis

	ASICS Women's Gel-Nimbus 20 Running Shoe	Brooks Womens Ghost 10 GTX	ASICS Women's GT-2000 6 Running Shoes
Upper:	Synthetic mesh	Synthetic mesh	Synthetic mesh
Sole:	Rubber	Rubber	Rubber
Stride:	Supination	Overpronation	Neutral or Slight Pronation
Sizes:	5-13	5-12	5-13 in Wide, Narrow, Average

For more of my running gear recommendations, have a look through these popular Women’s Workout guide links: Running Jackets, Running Belts, Running Gloves.

Quick Answer: The 7 Best Rated Women’s Plantar Fasciitis Running Shoes

1. ASICS Women’s Gel-Nimbus 20 Running Shoe
2. New Balance Women’s W1540V2 Running Shoe
3. NIKE Women’s Dual Fusion TR 3 Print Training Shoe
4. ASICS Women’s GT-2000 6 Running Shoes
5. Brooks Womens Ghost GTX
6. Brooks Ariel ’16 Overpronation Stability Running Shoe
7. Saucony Women’s Guide 7 Running Shoe

Running Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis Reviews

The right running shoes can be difficult to find if you suffer from plantar fasciitis. However, the following 7 pairs can help. You may still have to do a little trial and error but these shoes are a good place to start.

#1 ASICS Women’s Gel-Nimbus 20 Running Shoe

There are two midsole features of the ASICS Gel Nimbus 20 running shoes that make it an ideal choice for those with plantar fasciitis, especially women.

The FLYTEFOAM technology allows for bounceback, which aids in support of the arch when running. This type of foam is supportive instead of what you’d find with softer foams.

The FLUIDRIDE midsole also aids in the proper amount of bounceback, so you get the support you need, but it also creates soft cushion.

The combination of support and cushion is important when you have plantar fasciitis.

The upper of the ASICS Gel Nimbus 20 flexes to give you the support you need while also allowing your foot to move naturally. The 3D overlay also adds plenty of support that customizes to the shape and movement of your foot.

This makes them the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis for women that are having a hard time finding a shoe that offers the right combination of support and custom fit.

#2 New Balance Women’s W1540V2 Running Shoe

These New Balance shoes for plantar fasciitis focus on stability control. As a runner with plantar fasciitis you are probably already aware how important stability control is in a great pair of running shoes.

The ACTEVA LITE midsole offers an ideal combination of both support and cushion while the roll bar keeps your foot flexible but stable within the shoe.

The synthetic mesh upper also helps to provide a flexible but supportive fit.

While the New Balance W1540V2 is an awesome shoe, you can also still find the New Balance 990V4, which offers several of the same benefits along with a breathable mesh.

The 990V4 shoes are great for everyday wear as well as running, unlike the W1540V2 which is made specifically for running.

Overall if your looking for the best sneakers for plantar fasciitis, the New Balance’s are a good choice!

#3 Nike Women’s Dual Fusion TR3 Training Shoes

The Dual Fusion technology in the Nike Women’s Dual Fusion TR3 trainers is ideal for those with plantar fasciitis as it offers support and cushion.

This technology offers strategically placed foam that makes them comfortable with the support you need, especially when running. The midfoot backing is perforated which allows your foot to breathe.

These running shoes are very light. Don’t let the weight of the shoe fool you, however. You still get all the support you need but the lightweight shoe is stable when running.

In fact, these shoes are made for the serious runner or even those who participate in other high-intensity workouts whether they are indoors or out, offering great traction from the rubber sole.

#4 ASICS Women’s GT-2000 6 Running Shoes

This pair of ASICS offers the same support and comfort you need in a running shoe if you suffer from plantar fasciitis.

However, it does it in a somewhat different way. Gel technology gives you the support you need, especially in the rearfoot, or heel area.

The Impact Guidance System, or IGS, allows the shoe to absorb some of the impact from running or high intensity training.

You will have all the support you need from the Dynamic DuoMax Support System that is specially designed to support the foot.

Just like the ASICS Gel Nimbus 20 model featured first on this list, you have the benefit of the FLUIDRIDE midsole that creates cushion while still being supportive.

This new model of ASICS is lightweight which reduces fatigue in the foot when running. The toe box is also a bit roomier which allows your foot to flex naturally with each step.

#5 Brooks Womens Ghost GTX

We feature two models from Brooks on our list and the first is the Women’s Ghost GTX.

While the name may sound expensive, these are affordable running shoes that will give you all the features you need from a running shoe.

With plantar fasciitis, it is important to have proper arch support. These shoes are specifically designed for those with a neutral or supination gait.

The GORE-TEX lining allows your foot to breathe but also makes it waterproof. This is an ideal shoe for runners with plantar fasciitis who don’t let the weather stop them.

Both the sole and the upper of the Brooks Ghost GTX are made to provide a supportive structure while still allowing for cushion and flexibility.

The insole is removeable if you need to change it out for an orthotic insole as well, which many with plantar fasciitis receive as part of treatment for the condition.

The Segmented Crash Pad absorbs impact when running or training making these good shoes for plantar fasciitis.

#6 Brooks Ariel ’16 Overpronation Stability Running Shoe

The second pair of Brooks running shoes we have to show you is the Brooks Women’s Ariel 16. The predecessor of the Ariel 16 is the Beast 14.

Several upgrades have been incorporated into this new model that help those with several foot conditions, including plantar fasciitis.

The mesh upper allows for movement in a structured way that is also breathable but resistant to the elements.

The HPR Green outsole is made of environmentally friendly materials that offer both wet and dry traction.

The best feature of the Ariel 16 running shoes is the Progressive Diagonal Rollbar. This offers the best arch support you can find in a mid-range priced running shoe.

The forefoot movement in these running shoes allows your foot to move naturally while still supported. The combination of stability control and breathable materials that are also lightweight making this a great shoe for the serious runner.

#7 Saucony Women’s Guide 7 Running Shoe

Sometimes it isn’t just about arch support and a comfortable step. These Saucony Women’s Guide 7 running shoes also cradle your foot in soft fabric that wicks away moisture.

This is their ComfortLite sock liner. As with all of the running shoes we feature, the midsole is a strong indicator of how well a running shoe will work for someone with plantar fasciitis.

The SSL EVA midsole is made from two different densities of rubber. The harder rubber offers support while the softer rubber adds comfort.

The SRC impact zone helps to cushion the blow of each step, especially in the heel area which can be the most painful part of your foot when suffering from plantar fasciitis.

Saucony has included cushioning support from the heel to the toe for maximum comfort. The Guide 7 is also much lighter than its predecessors which makes it much better for reducing fatigue.

Plantar Fasciitis Running Shoes Comparison Table

How to Choose the Best Women’s Plantar Fasciitis Running Shoes

How do you make sense of the information you just read about each of our featured running shoes?

It is important to know what you need, personally, out of each of the following features a running shoe for plantar fasciitis.

You may even want to talk to your doctor about what you need out of your shoes for your specific symptoms.

Arch Support

The fascia that supports the bottom of your foot is essentially also supporting the arch of your foot.

When the fascia is inflamed or has tears due to overuse or being overweight, you want to give it a bit more support than you would normally, or that you can find in a cheaper set of running shoes.

To choose arch support that is best for you, you first need to know whether you have a neutral gate or if you pronate or supinate.

Shock Absorption

Shock absorption isn’t limited to the needs of those with plantar fasciitis that experience much more pain in the heel area, but it is vital for any runner.

However, if you have plantar fasciitis, it is much more important to keep in mind that the impacts from running can aggravate in your heel.

Several of the running shoes we’ve featured here are specifically designed with shock absorption in mind.

Heel Support

Supporting the heel isn’t just about having supportive but comfortable rearfoot design and materials. You also have to think about the support of the Achilles Tendon at the back of your foot.

This is where the shape of the back of the running shoe comes in. You want something that will support the entire back of your foot, from heel to ankle.

Cushioning

Shoes that don’t offer the proper amount of cushion are only going to aggravate your condition. Support is vital but you need to have some movement within the shoe as well.

Cushion can come in the form of foam and rubber that are used in various densities, or it may be the flexible upper. Some even have several features that make them comfortable to run in regularly.

Flexible Toe Box

The toe box is the forefoot of the shoe from where the upper bends to the very front of the shoe. While it is important to have a narrow, wide, or average size running shoe based on the width of your feet, the toe box also needs to be flexible, allowing you to bend at the ball of the foot easily.

Usually, when people talk about “breaking in” a new pair of shoes, they are referring to making the toe box more flexible than it is coming out of the box. Shoes that are designed with a flexible toe box don’t need this break in period and are comfortable from the first you put them on.

FAQs About Running Shoes w/ Plantar Fasciitis

Since buying yourself a pair of shoes is a little different when you have plantar fasciitis, you most likely have questions. The next 5 questions are common among those with this foot condition that are shopping for a new pair of running shoes.

Q: What can I do besides buying proper running shoes?

A: There are many treatment options for those with plantar fasciitis. While having proper footwear is important, you may also receive an orthotic insole for your new shoes from a doctor.

You can also splint your foot during the night when asleep to relieve tension on the fascia. Rest helps quite a bit, however, when your symptoms are present.

Q: Will the right shoes cure my plantar fasciitis?

A: It may be possible that changing your shoes, especially running shoes, can alleviate your symptoms. For some, symptoms are alleviated only when wearing the shoes.

Others may find their symptoms reduced or completely gone even when not wearing them. Wearing the right shoes may prevent you from developing plantar fasciitis in the first place, especially as runners are more susceptible to this condition.

Q: How do I know the shoes I buy will help?

A: The answer is… you don’t. It may take some trial and error with two more more pairs of shoes to find one that helps you the most. If you do the research before you shop, such as reading these reviews and this buying guide, you can greatly improve your chances of a successful match to your feet and symptoms.

Q: Why do I need proper footwear?

A: Wearing shoes that don’t fit, or don’t support your feet as they should while you are running can increase your chances of developing plantar fasciitis as well as other conditions of the feet.

The proper footwear can reduce the risk of developing it and can alleviate your plantar fasciitis symptoms. Wearing proper footwear not only supports the feet, but also the ankles, knees, and hips. This means wearing the right shoes can fix more than just your plantar fasciitis.

Q: Can I use my running shoes for casual walking? Hiking?

A: There are several types of casual shoes that also help with plantar fasciitis symptoms. However, you may be able to wear a pair of running shoes to work or even while shopping, and still see results. It is beneficial to have a pair of running shoes specifically for running, however.

You can have a pair of running shoes just for casual wear, as well. Hiking isn’t recommended in running shoes as they don’t offer the right support for walking over uneven terrain. A proper pair of hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis can help relieve symptoms while hiking.

Tips for Buying Running Shoes if You Have Plantar Fasciitis

When looking for a good pair of running shoes that will help alleviate the symptoms of your foot condition, it is important to keep several things in mind. The following tips will help you to choose the right pair as you learn more about what this condition is and how to solve the problem.

Tip #1: Understand Pronation

If the running shoes you choose aren’t made for your gait, it can increase the problem instead of solving it. You can under pronate, oer pronate, or have a neutral gait. Under pronation results in a low arch or even flat feet while over pronation is an extremely high arch which needs more support.

Under pronation is also called supination. It is important to know whether you have a neutral gait or if you over or under pronate when walking. Running shoes made for plantar fasciitis will target your specific gait.

Tip #2: Choose a Name Brand

Name brand shoes often have research and development programs alongside them that help them develop the best shoes for different people, whether it is a foot condition, small or large feet, or something more.

These shoe brands research the best ways to help your feet if you already have a problem such as plantar fasciitis, and how to prevent problems in the future with the best fitting shoes. It is definitely worth it to buy a brand name shoe.

Tip #3: Don’t Rely on Proper Shoes Alone

If the shoes you buy help but don’t alleviate all of your symptoms, you may have to incorporate another treatment.

Wearing a night splint, putting custom insoles in your new shoes, or even receive a steroid injection along with over-the-counter meds that reduce inflammation such as ibuprofen or naproxen. It is important that medical treatments only be prescribed by a doctor.

Tip #4: Understand the Problem

There are several things that make a person more prone to plantar fasciitis. More women than men get this condition. Runners and those who lift weights are also more susceptible, as are those who are on their feet for long stretches of time.

These are especially true if you commonly wear shoes that don’t fit or don’t give you the proper support. If you know your risk factors, you can help to solve the issues contributing to your symptoms.

Tip #5: Focus on Achilles Tendon

Many times, the symptoms of plantar fasciitis are made worse when the Achilles Tendon is not supported or is aggravated by wearing shoes that are too small.

Even shoes that fit can have heel support that doesn’t match your needs. Make sure the back of the shoe is supportive of the heel and Achilles Tendon and doesn’t aggravate it.

Don’t Let Plantar Fasciitis Slow Your Run

As a runner, the hardest thing you can develop is a foot condition such as plantar fasciitis. You don’t have to let it slow your pace, however, if you wear the proper footwear meant to help with it.

Learn what to look for in the perfect pair of running shoes and you’ll be out running again in no time at all.

How We Researched

To come up with the top running shoes for plantar fasciitis, we researched a variety of sources for reviews such as REI, Walmart, Target and Dick’s Sporting Goods along with our own personal experience.

The authors consulted sources such as online magazines for research and reviews unbiased information.

By using Fakespot.com we tried to eliminate fake reviews and use only genuine ones.

With so many options available, the authors narrowed down the selections by using products they felt were the best value for the money.

The staff authors have a wide and varied background as fitness trainers, yoga instructors and runners. The authors have decades of experience and are eager to share their knowledge with readers.

In order to narrow down the options, we used personal experiences plus recommendations from other trainers and instructors.

Sources