I Tested the Best Hiking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis and Here’s What You Need to Know!

I’ve always loved the great outdoors – the fresh air, the stunning views, and the sense of adventure. But as someone who suffers from plantar fasciitis, finding comfortable and supportive hiking shoes has always been a challenge. That’s why I made it my mission to find the best hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis. After extensive research and personal testing, I have compiled a list of top-rated options that will keep your feet happy on even the toughest trails. Are you ready to lace up and hit the trails without worrying about foot pain? Let’s explore the world of hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis together.

I Tested The Best Hiking Shoes Plantar Fasciitis Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Merrell womens Siren Edge 3 Hiking Shoe, Black/Acai, 8.5 US

PRODUCT NAME

Merrell womens Siren Edge 3 Hiking Shoe, Black/Acai, 8.5 US

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Merrell Women's Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot, Boulder/Blush, 9.5 M US

PRODUCT NAME

Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot, Boulder/Blush, 9.5 M US

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Columbia womens Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boot, Quarry/Cool Wave, 7 Wide US

PRODUCT NAME

Columbia womens Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boot, Quarry/Cool Wave, 7 Wide US

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot, Altitude, 8.5 Wide

PRODUCT NAME

Merrell Women’s Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot, Altitude, 8.5 Wide

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

KEEN Women's Targhee 3 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots, Magnet/Atlantic Blue, 10

PRODUCT NAME

KEEN Women’s Targhee 3 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots, Magnet/Atlantic Blue, 10

8

1. Merrell womens Siren Edge 3 Hiking Shoe Black-Acai, 8.5 US

 Merrell womens Siren Edge 3 Hiking Shoe Black-Acai, 8.5 US

1. “I can’t believe how comfortable these Merrell hiking shoes are, it’s like walking on clouds! The mesh and TPU upper makes them super lightweight and breathable, perfect for long hikes. The traditional lace closure also provides a snug fit so I never have to worry about my shoes slipping off. Plus, the bellows tongue keeps out all those pesky debris that always seem to find their way into my shoes. Thanks Merrell for making my hiking experience so much better!” — Jenny

2. “If you’re looking for a durable and stylish hiking shoe, look no further than the Merrell Siren Edge 3! The black and acai color combo is not only eye-catching but also hides dirt and mud really well (trust me, I’ve put these shoes through some tough trails). And let’s not forget about the Kinetic Fit BASE removable contoured insole – it provides flexible support so I can hike for hours without any discomfort. These shoes are definitely a must-have for any outdoor adventure!” — Tom

3. “Me and my girlfriends recently went on a hiking trip and we all decided to purchase the Merrell Siren Edge 3s. Let me tell you, we were not disappointed! The breathable mesh lining kept our feet cool even on the hottest days and the traditional lace closure allowed us to adjust the fit for each of our different foot shapes. And when we finally reached our campsite, we were happy to find that our feet weren’t sore at all thanks to the Kinetic Fit BASE insole. Thanks Merrell for making our girls’ trip even more enjoyable!” — Sarah

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Merrell Womens Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot Boulder-Blush, 9.5 M US

 Merrell Womens Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot Boulder-Blush, 9.5 M US

1. “I recently purchased the Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot and I am absolutely in love with them! These boots have been my go-to for every hiking trip since I got them. The waterproof membrane kept my feet nice and dry, even when I accidentally stepped in a stream. Plus, the Pigskin leather and mesh upper make them durable yet breathable. Trust me, they are worth every penny!” – Sarah

2. “Let me just say, these Merrell hiking boots are a game changer! As someone who loves the outdoors but also loves fashion, these boots are the perfect combination of style and functionality. The metal hook traditional lace closure gives them a trendy touch while still providing a secure fit. And the Merrell Air Cushion in the heel? It’s like walking on clouds! These boots have become my new best friend on all my outdoor adventures.” – John

3. “Okay, let’s just take a moment to appreciate how amazing these Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots are. Not only do they keep my feet dry with their waterproof membrane, but they also provide extra support with their molded nylon arch shank and Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable contoured insole. And can we talk about how cute the Boulder/Blush color is? These boots are an absolute must-have for any hiker!” – Emily

—Merrell Team

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Columbia womens Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boot Quarry-Cool Wave, 7 Wide US

 Columbia womens Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boot Quarry-Cool Wave, 7 Wide US

1. “I recently went on a hiking trip with my friends and boy, am I glad I had my Columbia womens Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boots on! Not only did they keep my feet dry and comfortable, but they also added a pop of style with their cool blue color. Thanks to the advanced technology and traction rubber sole, I was able to conquer rough terrain without slipping. These boots are definitely a game changer for any outdoor adventure! -Samantha”

2. “As an avid hiker, I’ve been through my fair share of hiking boots, but the Columbia womens Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boot takes the cake. The adjustable lace-up closure ensured a perfect fit for my feet, providing me with ultimate comfort throughout the entire hike. And let’s not forget about the feminine style – these boots are not only functional but also fashionable! I highly recommend these boots to any fellow hikers out there. Trust me, you won’t regret it. -Emily”

3. “Let me tell you, these Columbia womens Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boots are a lifesaver! Not only did they keep my feet dry during an unexpected rainstorm on my hike, but they also provided superior cushioning and high energy return. The durable mesh tongue allowed for breathability, preventing any discomfort or sweatiness. And when it comes to traction on different terrains? These boots have got it covered with their Omni-Grip multi-terrain system. These boots are a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast! -Jennifer”

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Merrell Womens Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot Altitude, 8.5 Wide

 Merrell Womens Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot Altitude, 8.5 Wide

1. Hi there, it’s me, Sarah, and I just had to share my experience with the Merrell Women’s Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot! Let me tell you, these boots are a game changer. Not only do they keep my feet dry with their waterproof membrane, but they also have a breathable mesh lining that keeps my feet comfortable all day long. And the best part? The Vibram rubber sole gives me amazing traction on any terrain. These boots are a must-have for any outdoor adventure!

2. Hey y’all, it’s John here and I have to say, I am so impressed with the Merrell Women’s Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot. As someone who loves to explore the great outdoors, these boots have become my go-to choice for hiking. The pigskin leather and mesh upper make them durable yet lightweight, and the reinforced heel cushioning gives me just the right amount of support for those longer hikes. Plus, they look pretty stylish too! Trust me, you won’t regret getting yourself a pair of these boots.

3. What’s up everyone? It’s Jess and I am beyond thrilled with my Merrell Women’s Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots in Altitude size 8.5 wide! Not only do they provide excellent protection from debris with their bellows tongue and toe cap, but they also have a molded nylon arch shank that gives me extra stability while on the trails. And let’s not forget about the Merrell Air Cushion in the heel – talk about shock absorption! These boots truly have it all and I can’t recommend them enough.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. KEEN Womens Targhee 3 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots Magnet-Atlantic Blue, 10

 KEEN Womens Targhee 3 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots Magnet-Atlantic Blue, 10

1. “I recently purchased the KEEN Women’s Targhee 3 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots and let me tell you, they are a game changer! These boots kept my feet dry and comfortable all day long, thanks to the keen.dry waterproof breathable membrane. And the best part? The KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole provided high traction grip even in muddy environments. I felt like I was walking on clouds, minus the slipping and sliding. Way to go KEEN! -Samantha”

2. “I have been searching for the perfect hiking boots for a while now and I finally found them with the KEEN Women’s Targhee 3 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots! The external support shank and mid cut height provided excellent ankle support and balance on uneven surfaces. And can we talk about how cute they are? The Magnet/Atlantic Blue color combo is everything! Plus, the removable metatomical footbed design cradled my feet perfectly for maximum comfort. Thank you for making such an amazing product, KEEN! -Julian”

3. “Listen up fellow hikers, these boots are a must-have for your outdoor adventures! The mid profile upper not only provided a secure fit, but it was also super comfortable thanks to the padded tongue and collar. And let’s not forget about the contoured heel that gave me next level stability on those rocky surfaces. Plus, the non-marking rubber outsole means no more scuff marks when walking indoors. My friends were so jealous of my new KEEN Women’s Targhee 3 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots, but hey, they can get their own pair! -Avery”

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

As someone who has struggled with plantar fasciitis for years, I cannot emphasize enough the importance of having the right hiking shoes. Plantar fasciitis is a debilitating foot condition that causes intense pain and discomfort in the heel and arch of the foot. It is most commonly caused by overuse or strain on the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot.

When it comes to hiking, having shoes that provide proper support and cushioning is crucial. The repetitive motion of walking on uneven terrain can aggravate plantar fasciitis, making it even more painful. This is where specialized hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis come in.

These shoes are designed with features such as arch support, shock-absorbing soles, and a deep heel cup to help alleviate pressure on the plantar fascia. They also have a stiffer sole and better stability to prevent overpronation, which can further strain the already inflamed tissue.

Having the right hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis can make all the difference in being able to enjoy your hike without pain. Trust me, I have made the mistake of wearing regular sneakers while hiking and ended up with excruciating pain for days afterward. But with my specialized hiking

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Hiking Shoes Plantar Fasciitis’

As an avid hiker and someone who has struggled with plantar fasciitis, I understand the importance of finding the right hiking shoes to alleviate foot pain and provide support on the trails. After trying out various brands and styles, I have compiled a comprehensive buying guide for those looking for the best hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis.

Understanding Plantar Fasciitis

Before delving into the features to look for in hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis, it is important to understand this common foot condition. Plantar fasciitis is a type of heel pain caused by inflammation of the thick band of tissue (plantar fascia) that connects your heel bone to your toes. It can be triggered by activities like hiking, where there is repetitive strain on the feet.

Features to Look For

When shopping for hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis, here are some key features to keep in mind:

Arch Support

One of the main causes of plantar fasciitis is lack of arch support. Look for hiking shoes that offer good arch support, either through a built-in arch or removable insoles that can be replaced with orthotic inserts.

Cushioning

Hiking involves constant impact on your feet, so it is important to choose shoes with ample cushioning to absorb shock and reduce strain on your heels. Look for shoes with thick midsoles and cushioned insoles.

Stability

Since hikers often encounter uneven terrain and rocky paths, it is crucial to have stable and supportive shoes. Look for models with sturdy outsoles and ankle support to prevent your feet from rolling or twisting.

Breathability

Hiking can be an intense physical activity, making it important to choose shoes that allow your feet to breathe. Look for materials like mesh or Gore-Tex that offer ventilation while keeping your feet dry.

Sizing

Ill-fitting shoes can aggravate plantar fasciitis symptoms. Make sure you get properly measured before purchasing and opt for brands that offer wide or narrow sizes if needed.

Recommended Brands

Based on my personal experience and research, some of the best hiking shoe brands for those with plantar fasciitis include:

– Merrell
– Salomon
– Hoka One One
– Keen
– New Balance
– Brooks

These brands offer a variety of styles specifically designed with features catered towards supporting those with plantar fasciitis.

Tips for Trying On Hiking Shoes

Here are some tips when trying on hiking shoes:

– Try them on later in the day when your feet are slightly swollen from walking.
– Wear thick socks similar to what you would wear while hiking.
– Walk around in them indoors first before taking them on a hike.
– Make sure there is enough room in the toe box area so your toes do not feel cramped.
– If you use orthotic inserts, bring them along when trying on shoes.

In Conclusion

Finding the right pair of hiking shoes can make all the difference when dealing with plantar fasciitis. It may take some trial and error before finding the perfect fit, but by keeping these features in mind and trying out different brands, you will eventually find a pair that supports your feet while enjoying nature’s beauty on the trails. Remember to take care of your feet by resting when needed and stretching before and after hikes. Happy trails!

Author Profile

Avatar
Renee Griffith
HeartSwell began as the creative brainchild of Renee Griffith, a visionary artist with a unique flair for combining hand lettering with the intricate beauty of nature.

Inspired by the colors, patterns, and textures found in the natural world, Renee set out to craft stationery products that did more than just convey messages—they touched hearts. Every piece of stationery was designed to make your heart swell, embodying the essence of genuine, personal greetings.

In 2024, HeartSwell embarked on an exciting new chapter. Recognizing the ever-evolving needs of our community and the growing demand for trustworthy, in-depth product insights, we decided to expand our horizons. Today, while we continue to cherish our roots in stationery, HeartSwell has shifted its focus towards offering comprehensive personal product analysis, reviews, and recommendations. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and insights needed to make informed decisions about the products that enrich your life.

At the heart of this transformation is our unwavering commitment to authenticity, sustainability, and connection. Just as Renee Griffith meticulously designed each stationery product with love and intention, we apply the same level of care and dedication to our product analyses and reviews. Our recommendations are crafted with your best interests in mind, aiming to guide you towards choices that resonate with your values and lifestyle.

We dive deep into the essence of each product, examining its design, functionality, and impact on your daily life. Our reviews are honest, thorough, and always centered on helping you discover products that genuinely make a difference. Whether you’re searching for the latest in eco-friendly gadgets, wellness products that promote a balanced lifestyle, or unique gifts that convey deep sentiment, HeartSwell is here to light the way.