Running Shoes, Apparel and Gear The 7 Best Men’s Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis of 2023, Tested and Reviewed Our top pick offers the excellent shock absorption and support that runners with plantar fasciitis need By Christine Luff, ACE-CPT Christine Luff, ACE-CPT LinkedIn Twitter Christine Many Luff is a personal trainer, fitness nutrition specialist, and Road Runners Club of America Certified Coach. Learn about our editorial process Updated on May 08, 2023 Reviewed Verywell Fit articles are reviewed by nutrition and exercise professionals. 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 John Honerkamp Reviewed by John Honerkamp LinkedIn Twitter John Honerkamp is an RRCA and USATF-certified running coach, celebrity marathon pacer, and recognized leader in the New York City running community. Learn about our Review Board Fact checked Verywell Fit content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness. We rely on the most current and reputable sources, which are cited in the text and listed at the bottom of each article. Content is fact checked after it has been edited and before publication. Learn more. by Emily Swaim Fact checked by Emily Swaim LinkedIn Emily is a board-certified science editor who has worked with top digital publishing brands like Voices for Biodiversity, Study.com, GoodTherapy, Vox, and Verywell. Learn about our editorial process Print We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Verywell / Chloe Jeong One of the most common causes of heel or arch pain that runners deal with is plantar fasciitis. It can be a frustrating and debilitating problem. The tell-tale symptom of plantar fasciitis is pain in the heel and bottom of the foot. This pain is sometimes brought on or exacerbated by wearing running shoes that don’t have enough cushioning or support. Luckily, there are plenty of running shoes on the market that are designed to help those suffering from this common injury. When looking for running shoes for plantar fasciitis, make sure the shoes have adequate cushioning, stiff support to keep your foot stable, a snug fit around the heel, and a removable insole. To find the best men’s running shoes for plantar fasciitis, we researched reviews for some of the most popular running shoes on the market from a dozen of trusted shoe manufacturers. Then we laced up and hit the ground running to test 24 pairs in The Verywell Testing Lab. We evaluated these shoes for fit, comfort, cushioning/knee protection, responsiveness, stability, and overall value. We also consulted with podiatrist Diana Valencia, DPM during our tests to help us understand which cushioning, support, and stability features were best suited for those with plantar fasciitis. A certified running coach from our Review Board also reviewed the claims in this article for accuracy and how to evaluate the different features of men's running shoes for plantar fasciitis.We are continuously testing the best running shoes and will update our list of top picks as new models become available to ensure we're always recommending the best options on the market. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Asics Gel-Kayano 28 at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Distance Running: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20 at Amazon Jump to Review Best Budget: Saucony Men's Cohesion Running Shoes at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Trail Running: ASICS Men's Gel-Venture Trail Running Shoes at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Wide Feet: New Balance Men’s M990v5 Running Shoes at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Marathon Runners: Mizuno Men's Rider Running Shoes at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Walking: New Balance Men's 411v2 Walking Shoes at Zappos Jump to Review In This Article Expand Our Picks How We Selected and Tested What to Look For FAQs Why Trust Verywell Fit Best Overall Asics Men's Gel-Kayano 28 4.2 Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Walmart Our Ratings Cushioning 4/5 Responsiveness 4/5 Fit 4/5 Value 4/5 Blister Protection 3.5/5 Pros Supportive and stable Good shock absorption Comfortable on longer walks Cons Heel padding may lose shape over time The Asics GEL-Kayano running shoes are our top overall pick for their excellent support and comfort that men with plantar fasciitis need. We like that these shoes feature Asics’ popular GEL cushioning, which pampers and supports the heel area, and durable rubber soles for exceptional shock absorption. We've found that this model is very popular among neutral and overpronating male runners, especially those who enjoy road running and logging high mileage. Runners are loyal to the Kayano because of its superior stability, comfort, and support. The shoe features Asics’ Flytefoam midsole technology, which allows it to bounce back to its original shape after each stride, providing superb adaptive cushioning for your entire run. The shoes’ mesh upper offers an adaptive fit, while the Heel Clutching System technology provides excellent support all over, especially in the rear of the foot. Available in regular or wide sizes, we love that the Kayano has plenty of room for wider feet and/or orthotics, like special insoles for flat feet. Price at time of publication: $160 Key Specs:Weight: 10.6 ounces | Cushioning: Foam and Gel | Closure: Lace-up Best for Distance Running Brooks Men's Adrenaline GTS 20 Running Shoes 4.9 Amazon View On Amazon Pros Good arch support Comfortable fabric lining Midsole adapts to your stride Cons Expensive Toe box may be too narrow for some We've found that Brooks Adrenaline running shoes are a beloved choice among distance runners, thanks to their ability to deliver an optimal combination of cushioning and stability. One notable feature we love is the segmented design of the crash pad, which provides additional cushioning and shock absorption. These shoes excel on both pavement and light trails, making them a versatile option for runners who enjoy training on various surfaces. Additionally, they come in a range of widths, including narrow, wide, and extra-wide, allowing you to find the perfect fit that suits your needs. Price at time of publication: $160Key Specs:Weight: 10.6 ounces | Cushioning: Foam | Closure: Lace-up Best Budget Saucony Men's Cohesion 13 Running Shoes Amazon View On Amazon View On Dsw.com Pros Lightweight but durable Flexible materials Supportive fit Cons May run small for some We are aware that running shoes with the necessary support and cushioning for runners with plantar fasciitis tend to be pricier than most sneakers. However, we have found some affordable options that are widely available. The Saucony Cohesion is a reasonably priced shoe that offers many features found in more expensive models. Despite being lightweight and fast, the Saucony Cohesion provides ample support, making it a suitable choice for neutral runners. We love that these shoes are not only comfortable but also well-cushioned, making them ideal for various types of runs or even as a shoe for all-day wear. Price at time of publication: $75Key Specs:Material: 8.9 ounces | Cushioning: Foam | Closure: Lace-up Best for Trail Running ASICS Men's Gel-Venture 7 Trail Running Shoes Amazon View On Amazon Pros Inner lining molds to the shape of your foot Excellent traction Breathable Cons Limited arch support If you’re into trail running, we recommend this running shoe from Asics because it offers excellent traction and durability and the right support and cushioning for those prone to plantar fasciitis. We especially like that the reverse-traction lugs on the outsole make them perfect for walking or running on trails or in wet conditions. Another nice feature we like is the durable rubber outsoles that are reinforced in high-wear areas. If you’re looking for an all-around running shoe for road and trail running or walking, we think the Asics GEL Venture running shoes are a high-quality option at an affordable price. They’re available in wide sizes—a great option for those who need room to accommodate bigger feet or orthotics. Price at time of publication: $70Key Specs:Weight: 8 ounces | Cushioning: Gel | Closure: Lace-up The Best Trail Running Shoes, According to a Certified Running Coach Best for Wide Feet New Balance Men’s M990v5 Running Shoes 4.9 Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Walmart Our Ratings Fit 5/5 Cushioning/Knee Protection 5/5 Comfort 5/5 Responsiveness 5/5 Stability 4.5/5 Pros Durable construction Wide width options Excellent heel support Cons Bulky appearance Heavier weight and less flexibility We chose the New Balance Men's M990v5 Running Shoes as our top pick for men's running shoes designed for wide feet. Known for their extra-wide running and walking shoes, New Balance delivers a supportive, well-cushioned shoe in its 990 model. Light and comfortable, it offers plenty of room for custom orthotics or insoles. When testing these shoes in the lab, we jogged and performed plyometrics, finding them remarkably comfortable. Despite their bulky appearance, the shoes are surprisingly lightweight and offer excellent heel support.We found the shoes to be highly responsive and supportive during test runs. Each step provided a satisfying landing, with no pain in the shins. While the shoes offer great stability, we noticed a slight shift in our form due to their bulkiness. Despite their lighter-than-expected weight, they're still bulkier than the average running shoe. For casual training, we didn't encounter any issues with blisters. However, for long-distance runners, the shoe's weight might make them less comfortable after many miles. After testing, we think these shoes are best suited for casual runners with wide feet and for HIIT workouts—we wouldn't recommend them for long-distance running. Unlike cheaper running shoes, New Balance uses a leather-and-fabric combination to create a sturdier, more durable shoe, giving you plenty of support. With wide, extra-wide, and extra-extra-wide options, runners with wider feet can find a pair that fits. Price at time of publication: $185Key Specs:Material: 14 ounces | Cushioning: Foam | Closure: Lace-up Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Tamara Staples Our Running Coach Spent 55 Hours Wear Testing to Find The Best New Balance Shoes Best for Marathon Runners Mizuno Men's Rider 23 Running Shoes Amazon View On Amazon Pros Lightweight design Durable outsole Breathable upper Cons Less stability compared to heavier shoes Limited arch support Marathon runners prone to plantar fasciitis need versatile running shoes to keep up with their demanding training regimes. We like the Mizuno Wave Rider running shoes because they provide consistent support and cushioning to help prevent plantar fasciitis and alleviate symptoms during long runs. But we also appreciate that they’re lightweight and flexible, making them ideal for shorter speed workouts. We also like that the insole is removable, so you can replace it with an insert or custom orthotic. Overall, the Wave Rider shoes are comfortable, durable, and an excellent go-to shoe for distance runners. Price at time of publication: $120Key Specs:Material: 9 ounces | Cushioning: Foam | Closure: Lace-up Best for Walking New Balance Men's 411v2 Walking Shoes Zappos View On Zappos View On Roadrunnersports.com Pros Wide width options Constructed with durable materials Good arch support and stability Cons Bulky appearance Less breathable If you do a lot of walking or spend plenty of time on your feet, we recommend this shoe from New Balance, which can help keep your plantar fasciitis at bay. The shoe’s support and cushioning will give relief to those already dealing with some plantar fasciitis pain. We like that these shoes have a very low-key, traditional style and come in basic colors, perfect if you’re not into flashy-looking running shoes. We think these shoes are a great option for those who do most of their running on a treadmill desk in the privacy of their office or home. We also like these running shoes because they are comfortable, simple, affordable (for New Balance), and can go with everything. Price at time of publication: $70Key Specs:Material: 8.8 ounces | Cushioning: Foam | Closure: Lace-up The 7 Best Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis of 2023, Tested and Reviewed How We Rated the Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis 4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis we tested. We recommend them without reservation.4.5 to 4.7 stars: These running shoes for plantar fasciitis are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great running shoes for plantar fasciitis, but others are better.3.5 to 3.9 stars: These running shoes for plantar fasciitis are just average.3.4 and below: We don't recommend running shoes for plantar fasciitis with this rating; you won't find any on our list. How We Selected and Tested the Best Men's Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis To choose the best men’s running shoes for plantar fasciitis, we researched dozens of sneakers from the top trusted brands. Then, we spoke with experts Alan Bass, DPM, a New Jersey podiatrist and spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association, and podiatrist Elizabeth Auger, DPM, to get their advice on which running shoe features were the most important for those with plantar fasciitis—including materials, cushioning, fit, price, durability, and style. We ultimately chose 24 pairs to test for ourselves in The Verywell Testing Lab, with guidance from Diana Valencia, DPM, a podiatrist. First, we tried each shoe on to assess the fit: Did they have enough cushioning? Is the midsole flexible, or could we barely bend it? Next, we wore each pair of sneakers for at least 12 runs over six weeks. We hit the roads, paths, treadmills, and trails, paying particular attention to how our knees felt during and after running in the shoes. We also kept track of any tingling, numbness, discomfort, or blisters.In The Verywell Testing Lab, we walked and ran on the treadmill and completed a short circuit workout to determine how the shoes felt, noting everything from the level of cushioning to how much stability they offered. Then, carpenter Lory Henning brought a bandsaw into the Lab to slice each shoe in half so that we could compare the layers of foam and gel padding of each shoe side by side.At the end of the testing period, we considered how well the shoes held up. We then rated each shoe on a scale of 1 (would not recommend) to 5 (highly recommend) for fit, comfort, cushioning/knee protection, responsiveness, stability, and overall value. We used these scores and insights to create our final list of recommendations. What to Look for in Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis Cushioning If you’re currently dealing with plantar fasciitis or worried about a recurrence, wearing a running shoe with excellent cushioning and shock absorption can make a big difference, according to New Jersey podiatrist Alan Bass, DPM, a spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association. It’s especially important to make sure there’s ample cushioning in the heel area of your running shoe. Support Look for running shoes that have firm ankle and arch support but are still flexible enough to allow you to run light and fast. A removable insole is also important, according to Dr. Bass, since many people with plantar fasciitis wear special shoe inserts or custom orthotics. Fit Ideally, the shoe should fit comfortably right out of the box and not require a break-in period. There should be enough room in the toebox to wiggle your toes, and your heel should feel secure. If you have wide or narrow feet, choose running shoe brands that offer a range of widths, such as New Balance, Asics, and Brooks. Frequently Asked Questions How do you lace running shoes for plantar fasciitis? When you have plantar fasciitis, you should lace your shoes based on foot shape. For wider feet, you want a roomier lacing so your toes to have plenty of space and gain as much flexibility as possible. Skipping every other hole can help you achieve this.For narrow and flat feet, keep the laces tight for a snug fit. This helps keep your feet from shifting around and worsening plantar fasciitis pain, says podiatrist Elizabeth Auger, DPM. How long does it take for plantar fasciitis to go away? Most people with plantar fasciitis need several months to recover. Treatment includes over-the-counter pain relievers, icing, stretching, and modifying physical activity. Recovery times can vary depending on the severity of the condition. If conservative treatments like these are ineffective, your doctor may suggest other strategies, such as physical therapy, orthotics, or surgery. How often should you exercise when you have plantar fasciitis? Do exercises to help reduce plantar fasciitis two to three times a day. Helpful exercises include toe, foot, and calf stretches.For cardio, swimming is the perfect exercise for plantar fasciitis because it does not put any force or pressure on the foot. Why Trust Verywell Fit Running coach and marathon runner Christine Luff is no stranger to the discomfort and inconvenience of plantar fasciitis. She credits her podiatrist, a regimen of stretching and foam rolling, and wearing the right insoles and running shoes to help her rehab from it. For road and treadmill running, she prefers to wear Mizuno Wave Rider running shoes. 4 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. Ribeiro AP, Trombini-Souza F, Tessutti VD, Lima FR, João SM, Sacco IC. The effects of plantar fasciitis and pain on plantar pressure distribution of recreational runners. Clin Biomech. 2011;26(2):194-199. doi:10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2010.08.004 Mayo Clinic. Plantar fasciitis - diagnosis and treatment. Michigan Medicine. Plantar fasciitis: Exercises to relieve pain. U.S. Masters Swimming. Can I swim with plantar fasciitis?. 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