Walking Shoes, Apparel, and Gear The 11 Best Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Spur Relief Products Available Walk-Hero Comfort and Sof Sole's Insoles provide all-day comfort and support By Alena Hall Alena Hall LinkedIn Alena Hall is a writer specializing in health, wellness, and fitness. Alena worked as a fitness trainer for two years. She also has experience in private yoga training. Learn about our editorial process Updated on April 13, 2022 Medically reviewed Verywell Fit articles are reviewed by board-certified physicians and nutrition and exercise healthcare professionals. Medical Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more. by Richard Fogoros, MD Medically reviewed by Richard Fogoros, MD Richard N. Fogoros, MD, is a retired professor of medicine and board-certified internal medicine physician and cardiologist. 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Verywell / Chloe Jeong If your days begin and end with pain at the bottom of your heel, then it’s possible you’re struggling with persistent plantar fasciitis. A type of inflammation of the plantar fascia ligament on the bottom of the foot, plantar fasciitis affects approximately 2 million people every year. “Activities such as sports, running, or standing for extended periods of time put strain on the heel, all of which can cause plantar fasciitis,” says William Spielfogel, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist and medical advisor to The Good Feet Store. Luckily, there are products that can offer support. When looking for a plantar fasciitis device, consider different wearables and therapeutic devices, such as insoles and stretchers that can help you soothe the inflammation. We researched dozens of plantar fasciitis devices and evaluated them for materials, price, and effectiveness. A board-certified internal medicine physician from our Review Board also reviewed the claims in this article for medical accuracy surrounding plantar fasciitis and heel pain, and how to evaluate products to relieve these conditions. Here are the best plantar fasciitis and heel spur relief products on the market. Our Top Picks Best Insole: Walk-Hero Comfort and Support Plantar Fasciitis Insoles at Amazon Jump to Review Best Runner-Up Insole: Sof Sole Insoles Plantar Fascia Gel Shoe Insert at Amazon Jump to Review Best Heel Cup: Heel That Pain Heel Seats at Amazon Jump to Review Best Runner-Up Heel Cup: Tuli's Heavy Duty Gel Heel Cup at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Nighttime Use: Alpha Medical Plantar Fasciitis Night Splint at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Arch Support: SB SOX Compression Foot Sleeves at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Cold Therapy: Bodyprox Cold & Hot Therapy Wrap at Amazon Jump to Review Best Massager: TheraFlow Foot Massage Roller at Amazon Jump to Review Best Massage Ball: Master of Muscle Massage Ball at Amazon Jump to Review Best Socks: Feetures Plantar Fasciitis Relief Sock at Amazon Jump to Review In This Article Expand Our Picks What to Look For FAQ Why Trust Verywell Fit Best Insole Walk-Hero Comfort and Support Plantar Fasciitis Insoles Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart Pros Shock-absorbing All-day comfort Compatible with different types of shoes Cons May need to size up to fit in shoe Too firm for some If you spend hours on your feet all day and suffer from plantar fasciitis and heel pain, a pair of insoles for your work shoes is a must. These insoles from Walk-Hero are made with shock-absorbing silicone material that reduces pressure on the bottom of the foot while relieving existing soreness. The deep heel cup on the insole also maintains the correct foot position, which protects the heel from heavier, jarring landings. The insoles fit comfortably inside walking shoes, casual hiking shoes, work shoes, and work boots. Simply remove the existing insoles of your shoes, replace them with this Walk-Hero set, and you’re good to go. Price at time of publication: $25 Best Runner-Up Insole Sof Sole Insoles Plantar Fascia Gel Shoe Insert Amazon View On Amazon View On REI Pros Breathable Can be cut to fit Supportive gel heel Cons May not work for smaller feet May prefer more cushioning These full-length insoles from Sof Sole are approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association and are designed to provide all-day relief from plantar fasciitis. They feature a reinforced plantar relief bridge, which supports the arch, and a nylon composite plate to help reduce stress on the feet and ankles. The gel heel cup helps with pain relief, while also improving stability and motion control. Versatile and convenient, these insoles fit comfortably inside casual, athletic, and work shoes, as well as casual and work boots. A breathable cover also keeps your feet dry to prevent blisters and slipping. Available in women’s shoe sizes 5 to 11, the insoles can be trimmed, so you can get an exact fit. Price at time of publication: $30 Best Heel Cup Heel That Pain Heel Seats Amazon View On Amazon View On Heelthatpain.com Pros Supportive and comfortable Moisture-wicking Good arch support Helps with motion control Cons Too thick for some Attracts lint If you prefer the feel and fit of heel cups in your shoes as opposed to full-length insoles, it’s hard to beat Heel That Pain Heel Seats. These are designed by doctors to help realign the plantar fascia ligament, as well as to provide both cushion and therapeutic acupressure to the heel in order to relieve pain and prevent it from recurring in the future. They are made with an extra-firm gel that provides continuous support for folks who spend hours on their feet each day. These heel cups come in four different sizes to fit every shoe with backing, and their anti-slip surface wicks away sweat and excessive moisture. What’s more, they come with a 120-day “No Questions Asked” manufacturer return and refund policy, so you really have nothing to lose in giving them a try. Price at time of publication: $30 The 7 Best Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis of 2023, Tested and Reviewed Best Runner-Up Heel Cup Tuli's Heavy Duty Gel Heel Cup Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Massagewarehouse.com Pros Durable cushioning Good shock absorption Easy to use Cons May pick up lint from socks Don’t work for sandals These heel cups provide top performance, foot protection, comfortable cushion, and gel flexibility all at the same time. They are twice as thick as standard Tuli heel cups, but they still fit in most active shoes and work boots. The gel’s latex-free waffle design absorbs shock and returns impact energy naturally found in your feet, supporting the natural alignment of your feet, knees, hips, and back. These are a good choice to wear with running shoes for bad knees. These heel cups are ideal for people who participate in an activity that involves heavy foot pounding or have a job that requires standing for long periods of time. Price at time of publication: $19 The 9 Best Women’s Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis, Tested and Reviewed Best for Nighttime Use Alpha Medical Plantar Fasciitis Night Splint Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart Pros Very sturdy and durable Breathable Washable cover Comfortable padding Cons Requires adjustment period Not easy to put on Sleeping with your foot in a plantar fasciitis splint may help encourage the flexion (or gentle stretching) of your Achilles tendon and plantar fascia ligament while in a resting state, though more research is needed. This position helps reduce inflammation and prevent muscle contractions that further tighten and agitate these areas, bringing relief to the bottoms of your feet when you awake in the morning. This splint is sturdy, but it’s also lightweight, low-profile, and breathable, making it surprisingly comfortable to sleep in after a few nights of adjusting to the passive stretching. The interior is lined with soft foam, and the padded external straps keep your foot secure but not overly restricted. The padding features a washable Lycra covering that keeps cool against your skin while you sleep. This is a good choice if during the day you need to wear an insole, such as an insole for flat feet. Price at time of publication: $28 Best for Arch Support SB SOX Compression Foot Sleeves View On Amazon Pros Lightweight compression Allows for good mobility Easy to use Breathable and wicking fabric Cons May feel bulky with socks on May run small Compression support along the arch and heel is often effective in relieving pain associated with plantar fasciitis, as it improves blood circulation that carries oxygen into the foot and lactic acid buildup out of the foot. These foot sleeves—which really look more like socks—are a top choice of doctors and trainers alike for foot pain relief that doesn’t compromise your mobility. They are form-fitting and come in four different sizes to ensure that you provide your foot the amount of compression support it needs. They are also lightweight and can be worn with any type of shoe and under a pair of socks. Finally, they are made from breathable fabric that both wicks moisture away and resists odor-causing bacteria. Some users choose to wear them to bed in lieu of a splint, finding that they provide similar overnight pain relief Price at time of publication: $25 The 8 Best Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis of 2023 Best for Cold Therapy Bodyprox Cold & Hot Therapy Wrap Amazon View On Amazon View On Bodyprox.com Pros Cold therapy and compression Can use for other body parts Reusable Can be used for heat therapy Cons May not work for small feet Need to put a towel in between wrap and skin Cold therapy is an excellent way to reduce swelling and inflammation, but it can be tough to find a cold pack that sits comfortably along the bottom of your foot without sliding out of place. This multi-use option from Bodyprox is one of the few that not only stays put but also utilizes a gel pack that stays cold. The wrap itself offers a little bit of compression as well, further relieving plantar fasciitis-related pain by lifting the plantar fascia tissue. This reusable pack can also be heated for other muscle relief efforts, and the adjustable straps easily secure it on your arm, wrist, elbow, and ankle as needed. Consider it a budget-friendly first aid essential worth having in your home. Just remember to practice cold therapy correctly when soothing the bottoms of your feet—ten to 20 minutes at a time several times throughout the day. Price at time of publication: $20 Best Massager TheraFlow Foot Massage Roller Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart Pros Convenient and easy to use Massages both feet at same time Inexpensive Portable and durable Cons Doesn’t always stay in place Works best for arch, not heel Unwind from long days with the assistance of this effective foot massager from TheraFlow. It uses two independent rollers, so you can massage both of your feet at the same time. What’s more, its various nubs and ridges are specifically designed to help knead, stimulate, and relax soft tissue in your feet, effectively relieving the tension felt in your arches and toward your heels. The massager is lightweight, making it easy to relocate throughout your home depending on where you want to use it, and it even fits easily in a backpack for traveling. If you struggle with plantar fasciitis, consistent foot therapy is a key to resolving the source of your pain, and this massager makes it easy and enjoyable. Price at time of publication: $12 Best Massage Ball Master of Muscle Massage Ball Amazon View On Amazon View On Masterofmuscle.com Pros Provides effective massage Portable Convenient and easy to use Inexpensive Cons May hurt a bit at first May not work for other body parts This small yet extremely effective massage ball can be a powerful tool in your plantar fasciitis pain relief arsenal. Made of dense, firm rubber, it provides a stimulating massage and releases tension in the plantar fascia. Using the rubber spikes, you can focus on specific areas of your feet that are tight and get some relief. “Massage works best after a shower, so everything is soft and warmed up,” says Jackie Sutera, DPM, a podiatrist, and Vionic Innovation Lab Member. “To massage the arch, think of a tic-tac-toe board and massage going up and down the arch vertically, then across horizontally from the ball of the foot to the heel. This provides a fascial release, which can be very helpful in relieving pain and inflammation.” If you don’t have time or money for professional massage appointments, you’ll appreciate this massage ball’s ease of use. Compact and portable, it’s easy to toss in your gym bag, backpack, or work bag, so you can roll out your foot before tackling your daily routine. Price at time of publication: $16 The 11 Best Orthotics of 2023 Best Socks Feetures Plantar Fasciitis Relief Sock Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Feetures.com Pros Convenient Lifetime guarantee Moisture-wicking Comfortable compression Cons More expensive than other socks Run a little small Relief from plantar fasciitis is as easy as putting on socks, thanks to this pair from Feetures. They provide targeted compression in three different areas of the foot to help ease heel and arch pain. Made with synthetic performance fibers, the socks wick away sweat, keeping your feet dry and blister-free. Whether you want to wear them for running, walking, or while you’re sleeping for nighttime pain relief, they’re a convenient way to alleviate plantar fasciitis symptoms. Like all Feetures socks, this pair comes with a lifetime guarantee, so you can feel confident about the quality and durability. They’re available in four different sizes to offer the right fit and amount of compression. Price at time of publication: $25 Final Verdict If you’re always on your feet and struggle with plantar fasciitis and heel spur pain on a daily basis, you will likely appreciate the support of the full-length Walk-Hero Comfort and Support Plantar Fasciitis Insoles (view at Amazon). That said, those who prefer the fit of a heel cup can’t go wrong with Heel That Pain Heel Seats (view at Amazon), either. What to Look for in Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Spur Relief Products Purpose Before choosing a product for relief from plantar fasciitis, you should consider your specific needs and preferences. If you only have pain first thing in the morning, you may want a massage or stretching tool to help warm up and loosen the plantar fascia and your calf muscles. For people who are on their feet all day, compression socks and sleeves are convenient and easy to get pain relief. Fitness walkers and runners may want to get insoles that are best suited for active people. Cushioning and Support If you’re currently dealing with plantar fasciitis or worried about a recurrence, wearing an insole or heel cup that provides good support, cushioning, and shock absorption, especially in the heel area, can make a big difference, according to Dr. Spielfogel. Cushioning not only helps with pain relief but can also prevent further inflammation and improve foot stability. Support in the arch and ankle area should be firm but flexible. Quality Look for high-quality products from trusted brands that have a proven track record. Consult the American Podiatric Medical Association’s list of highly-rated foot health products that have received their Seal of Acceptance/Approval. Frequently Asked Questions How do I permanently get rid of plantar fasciitis? Most people who have plantar fasciitis recover in several weeks or months with conservative treatment, including rest, icing the affected area, and regular stretching. Doing calf stretches, such as a downward dog yoga pose, a few times a day can help keep plantar fasciitis at bay. Stretching first thing in the morning is crucial, too.“After periods of rest, the plantar fascia and Achilles tighten up and when you put weight down without warming up, it starts the inflammation cycle all over again,” says Dr. Sutera. “Before getting out of bed, do a calf stretch in bed by extending your leg, locking your knee, and then using a belt or shirt looped around your ball of foot. Pull your foot back to stretch your calf, which also stretches your plantar fascia.”Wearing supportive shoes or insoles is an easy, non-invasive way to help alleviate pain and minimize the strain on the plantar fascia.If the underlying cause for your plantar fasciitis is something that you can’t change, such as flat feet, permanent recovery may be more difficult. You can continue to treat the symptoms with at-home remedies but may need treatment from a physical therapist or podiatrist.“A cortisone injection could also be effective but if symptoms persist, surgery may be needed,” says Dr. Spielfogel. What aggravates plantar fasciitis? Some people, especially those with flat feet or high arches, are more prone to plantar fasciitis than others. “Plantar fasciitis can be caused by and aggravated by a sudden increase in activity, an increase in body weight, improper shoes, overpronation, fat pad atrophy, tight Achilles tendons, as well as other issues,” says Dr. Sutera. Should I go barefoot with plantar fasciitis? “Going barefoot with plantar fasciitis is not advisable, as the plantar fascia will not be properly supported,” says Dr. Spielfogel. “It's best to walk with adequate support when having plantar fasciitis so that the condition does not worsen.” Why Trust Verywell Fit As a seasoned health writer, Alena Hall understands how important it is to know exactly what you’re getting in a product intended for medical use. Over the years, she has reviewed dozens of products, from athletic recovery aids to condition-specific products to homeopathic essential oils, to help readers like you discover products that can help you live your best life. Additional reporting by Christine Luff Certified running coach and fitness writer Christine Luff has spent years researching, testing, and recommending fitness and athletic products and knows that the right gear can tremendously improve performance and comfort. 10 Sources Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Latt LD, Jaffe DE, Tang Y, Taljanovic MS. Evaluation and treatment of chronic plantar fasciitis. Foot Ankle Orthop. 2020;5(1):2473011419896763. doi:10.1177/2473011419896763 Schwartz EN, Su J. Plantar fasciitis: a concise review. Perm J. 2014;18(1):e105-e107. doi:10.7812/TPP/13-113 Schuitema D, Greve C, Postema K, Dekker R, Hijmans JM. Effectiveness of mechanical treatment for plantar fasciitis: A systematic review. J Sport Rehabil. 2019;29(5):657-674. doi:10.1123/jsr.2019-0036 Li L, Yang L, Yu F, et al. 3D printing individualized heel cup for improving the self-reported pain of plantar fasciitis. J Transl Med. 2018;16(1):167. doi:10.1186/s12967-018-1547-y Umar H, Idrees W, Umar W, Khalil A, Rizvi ZA. Impact of routine footwear on foot health: A study on plantar fasciitis. J Family Med Prim Care. 2022;11(7):3851-3855. doi:10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_637_21 Wheeler PC. The addition of a tension night splint to a structured home rehabilitation programme in patients with chronic plantar fasciitis does not lead to significant additional benefits in either pain, function or flexibility: a single-blinded randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open Sport Exerc Med. 2017;3(1):e000234. doi:10.1136/bmjsem-2017-000234 McDonald KA, Stearne SM, Alderson JA, North I, Pires NJ, Rubenson J. The role of arch compression and metatarsophalangeal joint dynamics in modulating plantar fascia strain in running. PLoS One. 2016;11(4):e0152602. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0152602 Wang ZR, Ni GX. Is it time to put traditional cold therapy in rehabilitation of soft-tissue injuries out to pasture?. World J Clin Cases. 2021;9(17):4116-4122. doi:10.12998/wjcc.v9.i17.4116 Lee TL, Marx BL. Noninvasive, multimodality approach to treating plantar fasciitis: A case study. J Acupunct Meridian Stud. 2018;11(4):162-164. doi:10.1016/j.jams.2018.04.002 Trojian T, Tucker AK. Plantar fasciitis. Am Fam Physician. 2019;99(12):744-750. Additional Reading Cleveland Clinic. 6 Reasons You Shouldn’t Assume Foot Pain Is A Heel Spur. See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Review Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? Other Helpful Report an Error Submit