If you've plantar fasciitis, walking barefoot is against doctor's orders. Podiatrists recommend purchasing high-arched, cushioned sandals and sport sandals that go ahead and take pressure off your inflamed areas. This is exactly why we've put together the very best sandals for plantar fasciitis.
For years, orthotic sandals and shoes had a bad rap because of not being stylish. Thick-soled and clunky (but so, so comfy), these were often regarded as “old lady shoes.” Thankfully, shoe brands heard our pleas for additional cute looks, and you may now find sandals and shoes for this problem that are just as cool as any other sandal, but comfier. Even better? Buying orthotic shoes no longer breaks the bank. The sandals below range from $20-$140, so you do not have to spend your paycheck for foot pain relief.
What are the most useful flip flops for this problem?
These orthotic styles are great for walking around the house or errands without foot pain.
That depends upon the sandal. Lots of sandals and sandals available have little to no support – those may cause a flare-up or worsen your overall this problem.
“In acute this problem a sandal that's totally flat and thin can increase stress to the plantar fascia and heel,” says Dr. Splichal. “This increased stress can increase symptoms associated with this problem such as sharp pain within the heel or along the arch.”
While it's easy to assume sneaker-like sandals are the best option for stability and pain alleviation, Dr. Jacqueline Sutera, DPM, claims the strappier styles are simply as effective. “The strappier the sandal the better, because it holds the feet in so you do not have to over grip with your toe muscles. When the straps are adjustable that's a plus, which means this way you can accommodate for anything individualized like bunions, hammertoes, or perhaps a wide foot.”
What make of shoes do podiatrists recommend for this problem?
“Typically anything that takes stress off of the foot or controls flat feet (over-pronation) can provide relief in acute this problem,” says Dr. Splichal. “There are many good sandal options with arch support meaning if you have plantar fasciitis in warmer months you are not limited to only sneakers.”
Here are the shoe brands we like that have orthotic sandals for plantar fasciitis:
- Vionic
- Birkenstock
- BZees
- Dr. Scholl's
- Crocs
- Teva
- OOFOS
- Skechers
- Aetrex
- Clark's
Crocs Kadee II Flip Flops
Best flip flops For Plantar Fasciitis
Buy at Amazon, starting at $18.71
Why we like them:
- 11,000+ 5-star reviews
- Croslite foam footbed
- 16 colors and prints
When you are looking at sporty comfort, you can constantly rely Crocs. A lot more than 11,000 Amazon users gave these Kadee II flip flops 5-star reviews, many which claim to have found relief from their painful this problem symptoms simply by wearing these sandals. Constructed of Croslite foam and a soft toe post, they evenly distribute your weight to prevent pressure on your most inflamed areas. Unlike some styles, these sandals are orthotic without having to be bulky, and are lightweight enough to take anywhere. Check out all of the colors – you will find 16 of these!
Happy customer: “My PT told me to obtain a set of Crocs for my this problem condition. I've been wearing these for three weeks now and they have made a huge improvement in managing my pain. I carry these with me everywhere- I plan to keep them at work to use throughout the day.“
FitFlop Women's Leather Lattice Surfa Floral Flip Flops
Best Dressy Sandals For Plantar Fasciitis
Buy at Amazon, starting at $40.88
Why we like them:
- 100% leather
- Microwobbleboard midsoles
- APMA Seal of Acceptance
If you would like orthotic sandals with a few interesting detail, these floral lattice FlitFlops are a pretty option that can make your feet feel cushioned and cared for. Microwobbleboard midsoles – custom to FlitFlops – possess a seamless arched contour and hold your foot in place, ideal features for those struggling with this problem. They received the APMA Seal of Acceptance, a stamp of approval from podiatrists awarded to only the best orthotic shoes.
Happy customer: “I have this problem and tendinitis in both feet and legs, so comfort and ease of wear will always be very important to me. This shoe fits both bills easily, in addition to being of high quality construction and materials. I've three pair and have had no issues with them, including the toe post position. Also they are affordable, so more high marks- I'll definitely be owning more!”
Gravity Defyer Mary Women's Sandals
Best stabilizing flip flops For Plantar Fasciitis
Buy at Amazon, $55
Why we love to them:
- Wide toe bed protects your toes
- Water resistant and simple to clean
- Protective heel cup for balance and stability
- Ultra-soft EVA footbed
Gravity Defiers really are a fan-favorite of those struggling with plantar fasciitis. Podiatrists recommend wearing sandals such as these to take the pressure off your inflamed tissues, and the Mary sandals' embedded EVA footbed and G-Comfort arch support do just that. VersoShock technology converts pressure into renewable positive energy, and a protective heel cup adds extra stability. They're also water-resistant, so that you can put them on on your lawn without having to worry about stains.
Happy customer: “I love my Gravity Defyer sandals. They are like walking on cushions. I bought them since i have This problem and could not find any sandals that I could wear without causing pain. I bought these sandals and fell in love when I use them. I'm able to actually go for walks again. I'll be buying greater number of these. They are wide enough in my wide foot and also the length was in keeping with size.“
Vionic Tide II Orthotic Sandals
Best orthotic flip flops
Buy at Vionic, $69.95
Why we love to them:
- Lightweight and flexible
- Soft woven toe post and foam-lined strap ensure an appropriate fit
- Vionic Technology is biomechanically made to hug your arches and support the feet in comfort
When you'll need a pair you are able to slip on with no second thought, go for Vionic's Tide Sandal. They're made of a soft, supportive material that conforms to your foot's arches and absorbs shocks to reduce pressure in your ankles, feet, and knees. Though they look much like your average flip-flop, there is a reason hundreds of individuals have awarded this sandal a five-star rating.
Happy customer: “”I recently was identified as having plantar fasciitis, but I love my sandals in the summertime. I acquired these hoping but not believing that they'd feel good, help my feet and appear good. I'm soooo happy with them! They exceeded my expectations!””
Vionic Bella Orthotic Sandals
Best dressy orthotic flip flops
Buy at Vionic, $74.95
Why we like them:
- Lightweight, flexible EVA midsole absorbs shock
- Durable rubber outsole with a patterned tread provides traction on the variety of surfaces.
- Vionic Technologies are biomechanically made to hug your arches
Don't allow the pretty bow and floral pattern from the Bella sandal from Vionic fool you, this shoe offers some serious support. Made with the same Vionic Technology that everyone loves, these sandals cushion your heels while still molding to your feet to aid your foot's arches and alleviate pressure.
Happy customer: “These sandals are so much cuter on than what you know already! I purchased them thinking, I will put them on once or twice-.I wear them a lot! Super cute on! Go great with summer dresses! I'm a teacher and may wear them all day long without my feet hurting. I have this problem which shoes support my feet well!”
Skechers Reggae Cup Oh Snap Sandal
Best strappy sport Sandal For Plantar Fasciitis
Buy at DSW, $39.99
Why we love to them:
- Arch comfort footbed with 1 1/4 ” foam midsole
- Hook & loop slingback strap
- 100+ 5-star reviews
Strappy sandals are great for people who are afflicted by plantar fasciitis – they keep the foot secure and help to steer clear of the slipping that can cause inflammation. Not only does this style have soft elastic straps for stability, Skechers Reggae Cup sandals also provide an adjustable hook-and-loop closure so that you can find your ideal fit. They're ideal for walkers aiming to hit 10,000 steps, but you can just as easily throw them on for a pain-free trip to the supermarket.
Happy customer: “I wear these every day, everywhere. They cradle my feet so well. The arch support is wonderful. I have knee, feet, and back issues that keep me from walking far without pain. Have been in a position to walk longer and farther during these sandals with no pain while walking or after.“
OOFOS Ooahh Luxe Slide Sandal
Best Sport Slides For Plantar Fasciitis
Buy at OOFOS, $69.95
Why we love to them:
- OOfoam(R) technology absorbs impact
- Proprietary footbed design reduces force on knees, ankles along with other joints
- Machine washable
I know so many people who own these sporty OOFOS slides, plus they all say they wouldn't have found respite from this problem without them. Built-in OOfoam(R) technology absorbs 37 percent more impact than traditional footwear, and also the ultra-cushioned footbed relieves strain on your arches, legs, and knees. They're also machine washable, so they'll never smell!
Happy customer: “Like walking on the cloud. Sandal fit perfectly, gives arch support, and cozy in the get-go. I've got a hammertoe, along with a bunion and related foot disturbances so very happy to fit. I've had plantar fasciitis and it was creeping back. I believe these sandals can help avoid a recurrence. Love the sparkly dark blue color.“
Birkenstock Arizona Orthotic Sandals
Best orthotic slide sandals
Buy at Amazon, $111
Why we love to them:
- Suede covered SOFT footbed
- Built-in arch support
- Toe grip for added support and comfort
Birkenstocks really are a tried-and-true classic orthotic sandal for women and men. From the soft fleece around the underside of the straps to the breathable suede footbed, these sandals are only for comfort. Add a deep heel cup to boost the foot, arch support that runs the length of the footbed, an elevated toe bar for added grip, and plenty of toe room to prevent cramped feet, and you have a recipe for the best orthotic sandals – that are totally in fashion, too.
Happy customer: “It's so comfortable and soft, they're ideal for going into the beach or simply walking. Will certainly buy another pair when these need replacing, which i'm guessing come in a couple of years.”
