Hikers often encounter a debilitating condition called plantar fasciitis, which can result in intense foot pain during their excursions, forcing them to abandon their outdoor pursuits.
While the ailment can be painful, using specially designed hiking boots for plantar fasciitis can aid in recovery and quickly get hikers back on the trails. Additionally, selecting the appropriate boots can also assist in preventing future occurrences of the issue.
Here we will first provide an overview of what exactly plantar fasciitis is to help you determine if the discomfort you are experiencing is related to this condition. We will then delve into the reasons why hikers suffer due to it. Following that, we will discuss the key features to look for when choosing hiking boots specifically designed for plantar fasciitis.
We will also offer a list of our best recommendations for such boots and where to purchase them. Lastly, we will provide additional info on plantar fasciitis and ways to treat or avoid it. So the table of content given below can assist you in quickly navigating to the section of most interest to you.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
A common ailment that affects many middle-aged individuals, both men, and women, is Plantar Fasciitis. Additionally, it is prevalent in individuals who spend a significant amount of time on their feet. Those who have Plantar Fasciitis endure sharp and prolonged pain in the heels and the underside of the foot.
Type of hiking boots for Plantar Fasciitis
When searching for a suitable hiking boot, it’s important to keep in mind that there is no single pair that will be perfect for everyone
As you shop, be sure to consider important features such as:
- Wider heel
- Arch support
- Flexibility in the toe area
- A rigid sole in the middle
- Cushioning support
- Removable insole
- Ankle support
If you’re currently suffering from plantar fasciitis, it’s best to take a break and allow yourself time to heal.
However, if you have already recovered, it’s essential to find the right footwear to help prevent it from returning.
Best Hiking Boots for Plantar Fasciitis
Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boots ASIN: B01HEH2SCY
Columbia’s hiking shoes designed for plantar fasciitis boast a combination of softness and durability with a suede exterior in eye-catching color options. The multi-terrain traction system and dual-zone tread blueprint make these shoes perfect for tackling snow and ice during the winter months. The exterior, made of whole-hide leather, is waterproof, but the mesh tongue permits your feet to breathe. The superior padding in the midsole offers the outsole’s slip-free design on rough surfaces, permitting you to fully enjoy the scene.
| Pros | Cons |
| Waterproof and Breathable | Slightly inflexible |
| Adjustable lace-up closure | |
| Soft-cushioning | |
| 23 colors available | |
| Omni-grip traction sole |
KEEN Targhee II Mid-Hiking Boots ASIN: B01H8G9TQ4
The KEEN boots for those suffering from plantar fasciitis feature a KEEN. The DRY membrane allows vapor to escape, ensuring your feet stay dry throughout the day. Constructed from 100 percent PFC-free hydrophobic leather, these shoes protect without using harmful chemicals.
The real highlight of these boots is the KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole, which offers a secure grip without leaving any marks. The padded collar tongue provides a tight fit, but the Metatomical footbed adapts to the shape of your feet and offers exceptional arch support.
| Pros | Cons |
| Waterproof and provide good arch support | Slightly bulky for some people |
| Chemical free materials | |
| Sturdy and rubber outsole | |
| Available in 6 different colors | |
| Supports and stabilizes the ankle |
Foxelli Women’s Hiking Boots ASIN: B09M91QNJ4
These shoes for those suffering from plantar fasciitis are designed to provide ample cushioning for your ankle, thanks to the padded tongue and collar. The soft, removable insoles offer relief, while the shock-absorbent midsoles decrease the joint impact. The flexible upper allows for freedom of motion. The shoe’s construction, utilizing a combination of mesh and suede, promotes breathability while also boasting a luxurious aesthetic.
The Kingtex membrane ensures that your feet stay dry, while the gusseted tongue promotes healthy blood flow. With a wide toe box & Non-slip rubber soles, these shoes allow for a natural gait and easy traversal of uneven terrain. Additionally, Foxelli’s footwear provides trustworthy support for both the arch and ankle, promoting proper posture and balanced movement.
| Pros | Cons |
| Padded tongue and collar | Slightly stiff for some people |
| Absorbs shock well | |
| Breathable and waterproof | |
| Helps with blood circulation | |
| 4 different colors available |
Salomon X Ultra 3 Wide Mid GTX Hiking Shoes ASIN: B073JWR24B
Salomon has crafted the ultimate hiking boots for women suffering from plantar fasciitis, featuring an EnergyCell midsole constructed with Ethylene-vinyl acetate foam to absorb shock efficiently.
The upper webbing material is anti-debris, keeping out sand and rocks for a comfortable hike. The base mudguard offers protection against medial and lateral slides on muddy trails. Utilizing Descent Control Method, these boots allow for fearless adventures on the wet surface.
| Pros | Cons |
| Flexible sole and base mudguard | Tongue irritates at first |
| Offers wet traction | |
| Anti-debris mesh | |
| Shock-absorbing | |
| Soft midsole |
Riemot Women’s Hiking Shoes ASIN: B07KXRCLRR
Riemot has created the ideal hiking shoe for those with plantar fasciitis, boasting a perforated suede upper for breathability and aesthetic appeal. The shoe is waterproof and features an extra lining on the inside, ensuring your feet stay dry even during a drizzle. The rubber toe guard guards your toes against shocks, while the padded tongue and collar prevent friction.
The Phylon midsole reduces the shoe’s weight, and the micro-suede insoles with open-cell foam backing provide a comfortable bed for your feet. The soles are both flexible and well-cushioned, eliminating the danger of blisters. The rubber outsoles have a self-cleaning, open design, providing stability and traction on all types of terrain.
| Pros | Cons |
| Flexible and sturdy outsole | Toe area is slightly narrow |
| Rubber toe cap | |
| Waterproof lining | |
| Breathable and comfortable to wear | |
| Well-cushioned | |
| Available in 5 different colors |
Merrell Moab 2 Vent Mid-Hiking Boots ASIN: B01HFN0IB0
These hiking boots for women with plantar fasciitis are designed to provide the perfect balance of breathability and durability. The upper is crafted from a combination of leather and mesh, allowing air to circulate and keeping your feet cool. The Vibram TC5+ rubber sole ensures confident and stable footing, providing excellent obstruction against slippage.
The boots also feature targeted heel padding to reduce stress on the foot and an M Select FIT.ECO+ blended EVA-shaped footbed, which provides heel and arch support. The bellows and closed-cell foam tongue keep out debris and moisture, providing the most comfortable motion possible while on the trail.
| Pros | Cons |
| Contoured footbed | Not waterproof |
| Breathable mesh lining | |
| Targeted heel cushioning | |
| Slip-resistant sole | |
| Prevents moisture and debris | |
| 2 color options are available |
Skechers Relaxed Fit Trego – Base Camp Boots ASIN: B07V2NTK53
The ideal hiking boot for those suffering from plantar fasciitis from Skechers offers ultimate comfort with its full-length removable Air Cooled Memory Foam cushion. The mesh fabric panels at the collar and tongue allow for optimal breathability, while the Relaxed Fit design ensures a roomy interior. The midsole effectively absorbs shock, allowing for a more enjoyable hike. The chunky rubber outsole guarantees a secure grip on any terrain, eliminating the risk of slipping.
| Pros | Cons |
| Removable cushioning | Slightly inflexible |
| Waterproof exterior | |
| Available in 6 colors | |
| Breathable mesh panels | |
| Chunky rubber outsole | |
| Spacious fitting |
Vasque Breeze 2.0 Gore-Tex Hiking Boots ASIN: B00KYT2OXS
Vasque offers the ultimate solution for women suffering from plantar fasciitis with their top-of-the-line hiking shoes. These shoes expertly blend style and performance with their WP nubuck leather and air mesh upper materials that are resistant to wear and tear, reducing friction.
The shoe boasts breathable features, along with a sturdy Formed rubber toe guard to protect your toes from impact. Additionally, the reflective piping adds a sleek look while also providing visibility in low-light conditions. The Vibram Contact sole with XSTrek material ensures excellent traction.
| Pros | Cons |
| Breathable and Waterproof | Not offer enough arch support |
| Reflective piping | |
| Abrasion-resistant upper | |
| Superior cushioning | |
| 2 color options are available |
Oboz Sawtooth II Low B-Dry Hiking Shoes ASIN: B08RHKFKZW
The Oboz B-Dry system provides the ultimate waterproof hiking boots for those with plantar fasciitis. The Sawtooth outsole, inspired by Idaho’s mountain range, provides excellent grip and character.
The O-FIT insole ensures proper foot positioning and arch support, while the dual-density Ethylene-vinyl acetate midsole, nylon shank, and rubber heel counter offer stability and cushioning. The nubuck leather exterior is durable and abrasion-resistant, and the asymmetrical collar ensures a secure fit.
| Pros | Cons |
| Breathable fabric and Waterproof | Slightly bulky |
| Soft-cushioning | |
| Stabilizes gait | |
| Abrasion-resistant textile | |
| Available in 4 colors |
Merrell Siren Sport 3 Hiking Shoes ASIN: B082YVYDK4
Merrell’s hiking shoes, designed for plantar fasciitis, offer flexible support with a removable Kinetic Fit BASE insole that adapts to the shape of your foot. The exterior features a combination of mesh and leather and a bellowed tongue to keep out debris.
The heel is equipped with unique air cushioning for stability and shock absorption. The ultralight Ethylene-vinyl acetate foam midsoles, paired with Vibram TC5+ sole featuring deep adaptive lugs, also help reduce pronation and increase traction.
| Pros | Cons |
| Removable and adaptive insoles | Not provide enough wet traction |
| Sturdy and patterned outsoles | |
| Reduced pronation | |
| Available in 4 colors | |
| Soft and lightweight foam cushioning | |
| Breathable mesh lining |
Tips To Choose The Best Hiking Boots For Plantar Fasciitis
Hiking with plantar fasciitis can add additional stress to the muscles and heels, but with the right footwear, it’s possible to make it more comfortable. As every case of plantar fasciitis is unique, it’s best to consult a doctor and try different options. When looking for hiking shoes that will support your feet, make sure to keep an eye out for features such as:
Arch support
Having shoes that lack proper arch support can lead to various foot-related issues. To combat this, you can either seek out shoes that come with built-in arch support or add insoles to your current pair. Another option is to choose shoes that have removable insoles, allowing you to adjust the level of arch support to your personal preference.
Heel
When dealing with plantar fasciitis, it’s important to choose a shoe that has a wide, deep, and well-cushioned heel. This will provide extra support and cushioning to the heel area, which is the main area of pain, to prevent any added pressure.
Cushioning
When it comes to foot comfort, it’s best to have something soft to rest on to avoid direct contact with hard surfaces and potential loss of sensation in the nerves. A great option for this is Ethylene-vinyl acetate foam midsoles, as they are firm, soft, and flexible, which can conform to the shape of your foot and provide a snug fit.
Breathable upper
For ultimate comfort, choose shoe exteriors that promote breathability and prevent the trapping of body heat. Mesh linings and panels made of similar materials in the tongue and collar can greatly enhance the shoe’s ability to breathe.
Outsole
When hiking, it’s important to have a shoe with a robust and multidirectional tread pattern on the outsole to provide stability on any type of terrain. This will help keep your foot secure and prevent slipping on wet or uneven surfaces, as hiking trails can be unpredictable.
