By Rehan Iqbal
If you suffer from plantar fasciitis, you certainly know the pain that comes with walking in the wrong shoes. Without adequate support, your feet will feel uncomfortable all day long. Chances are, you have already found the ideal shoes to help alleviate the pain associated with this condition.
But what do you do during summer when it’s hot? Bulky sneakers and shoes won’t cut it. You need a pair of lightweight and supportive sandals that will allow your feet to breathe while giving you the support and comfort you need.
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A Guide to the Best Therapeutic Sandals for Plantar Fasciitis and other Foot Problems
Consumers are no longer limited to substantial lace-up shoes when trying to find relief for their foot complaint – welcome news to everyone considering a new pair of shoes for the summer. The following products are examples of some of the best supportive, therapeutic sandals that include brilliant heel support – or at least a close approximation – while tackling other issues like flat feet and arch support and providing style and comfort.
Are Birkenstocks Good for Plantar Fasciitis?
Yes, Birkenstocks are actually excellent for plantar fasciitis because the firm cork sole molds to fit the shape of the sole of your foot perfectly. This means that you get exactly the right kind of support to suit your individual need. Keeping the entire length of your foot well supported reduces strain and pain.
Do Corkbed Footbeds Help with Plantar Fasciitis?
Cork is naturally light weight, and it really helps with shock absorption. This helps reduce stress on the muscles of your feet, thereby relieving pain. Cork is firm enough to provide rigid support, yet it is also springy enough to provide excellent cushioning. All of these qualities work together to provide effective relief from plantar fasciitis.
Are flip-flops good for Plantar Fasciitis?
Standard cheap rubber flip-flops are not good for plantar fasciitis. In fact, because they are so flat and non-supportive, they can cause or aggravate plantar fasciitis. It is important to understand that it is not the thong sandal style of flip-flops that causes problems, though. It is the fact that most flip-flops are just flat and unstructured. Thong sandals (flip-flops) that are made with a slightly raised, supportive heel, a deep footbed and good arch support can be an excellent choice for people with plantar fasciitis.
Unisex Style Sandals for Plantar Fasciitis
1. OOFOS Unisex Slide Sandal
OOFOS is one of the most sought-after brands when it comes to the production of medical shoes. This unisex slide sandal comes with a textured footbed which is ideally designed to relieve heel pain as well as reduce various complications such as plantar fasciitis. It also comes with other heel-pain reducing features such as soft synthetic upper, cushioned footbed and well-padded interior. It features a specially designed split upper together with an extra roomy toe front to provide maximum comfort for your feet.
OOFOS Sandal
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It also features a very flexible medium-density midsole which works to provide your feet, ankles and knees with the right amount of support, helping in shock absorption and stress elimination. These slip-ons have been specially designed by podiatrists to help those suffering from plantar fasciitis pain. They ensure proper alignment of your feet to the natural walking position. If you want to look stylish while maintaining comfort wherever you go, look no further! They are comfortable enough to be worn in the house and sporty enough to be worn doing various outdoor activities. Bid goodbye to pain when you buy these sandals.
2. Birkenstock Arizona Sandals Unisex
Birkenstock Arizona sandals are undoubtedly the most popular open-toe sandals on the market today. They offer ample arch support, and have a comfort factor that simply can’t be beaten. If you’re looking for the best sandals to help you alleviate your recurring plantar fasciitis, look no further! Birkenstock have the most supportive footbeds, and they do wonders for plantar fasciitis feet.These sandals have a smooth leather upper and a classic silhouette.
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They feature a contoured footbed design with deep heel cupping to promote equal weight distribution and enhance proper gait. This takes unnecessary pressure off your plantar fascia, relieving pain and allowing you to walk around comfortably.
The biggest difference between the Birkenstock footbed and that of other sandals is the material. Their footbed has a unique latex and cork construction that molds to the shape of your foot creating a custom footbed that cradles and massages you every step of the way. Many people find that these sandals reduce arch stress as well as knee and back problems. The raised toe bar at the front really lets your toes grip the shoe thus engaging all your foot muscles and aiding circulation.
With regards to support, the well-treaded rubber sole provides excellent traction on all surfaces. It is incredibly durable and lasts a very long time even with daily use. If you’re looking for an adjustable sandal that is sure to provide all-day support and comfort to your feet, Birkenstock Arizona sandal is great and fits just right!
3. OLUKAI Ohana Thong Sandals, Flip-Flop Slides
Although this classic Hawaiian footwear is designed as beach sandals, the degree of comfort, support and surefootedness they deliver make them ideal for all sorts of summer fun. Best of all, reviewers say that they are barefoot comfy right from the start. There is no break-in period.
Men's
Women's
These water-resistant sandals feature a smooth, drop-in footbed that molds to your feet and provides perfect support. The soft, quick drying jersey knit lining keeps your feet dry and comfortable. Reviewers with outdoor summer jobs (e.g. lifeguards) say that these flip-flops are THE best shoes for staying comfortable on your feet all day. The rubber outsole provides excellent traction at poolside and in other potentially slippery settings.
Fit is very important with these dual footbed comfort sandals. When ordering online, look for the sizing chart that shows you how to measure your feet so that you can order just the right size. Generally speaking, if you wear a half size, you should go up to the next whole size. OLUKAI Ohana is only available in whole sizes, but it makes up for that by also being available in 30 different colors! Clearly, you can truly "be yourself" with Ohana.
Although $75 a pair may seem a little steep for flip-flops, it's important to understand that these are much more than one-summer shoes. The durable, water resistant nylon straps are securely attached to the base and nearly impervious to rips, tears and fraying. Unlike your standard flip-flops, Ohana Women's sandals are warranted against manufacturer's defects for a full year after purchase. Some reviewers say they have worn these flip-flops as house shoes for over five years before seeing signs of wear.
4. Gravity Defyer Sandals
Men's
Women's
Also Available at: Gravity Defyer
5. Vionic Unisex Wave Orthotic Sandal
When looking for shoes to aid conditions like Plantar Fasciitis, many consumers instantly turn to Vionic because they are a brand that can be trusted to deliver on a supportive specification and have a wide range of models on offer to give loyal customers precisely what they are looking for. The first product of theirs I listed in this guide is the Vionic Unisex Wave Orthotic Sandal.
Vionic Wave
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Unisex is definitely the correct term because this flip flop style is incredibly neutral with its choice of black, brown or khaki uppers, it comes in a range of male and female sizes and focuses on supportive features rather than looks. This shoe is promoted as aiding heel pain, knee pain and flat feet and does so via its shock-absorbing EVA midsole and biometric footbed.
6. ECCO Yucatan Sandals
Men's
Women's
When you’re looking for the perfect sandals for plantar fasciitis, you want them to be stylish and attractive but also supportive and comfortable. ECCO Yucatan sandals are capable of giving you unrivaled levels of comfort and a structure meant to relieve pain. A customer says the ECCO Yucatan sandals are a godsend for her severe arch pain because they offer immediate arch support contouring perfectly to the shape of her feet and making her feel as if she is walking on clouds.
This sandal is made of high-quality materials and features an incredibly sturdy EVA footbed with microfiber cover for superior cushioning and stability. It also contains RECEPTOR technology, which means it absorbs shock from foot impact and is easy on your arch, joints and spine. The sandal features a direct-injected PU midsole foam which gives your feet long-lasting cushioning and outstanding daily comfort when walking. The lightweight rubber outsole is also incredibly durable and will last the test of time, giving you good value for your money. These sandals are available in multiple colors and look great outdoors, but their biggest strength I found was the fact that they offer high levels of arch support and comfort.
Men’s Sandals for Plantar Fasciitis
7. Drew Warren Men’s Sandals
I hear many people saying how plantar fasciitis has made it impossible for them to keep wearing their favorite sandals. In fact, that would be entirely true without a supportive and comfortable shoe like the Drew Warren. Its generously cushioned removable ULTRON footbed makes it one of the best sandals for plantar fasciitis. With the Drew Warren, you can take your morning walks in peace without experiencing excruciating pain. And this by itself is a dream come true for people with plantar fasciitis.
Drew Warren
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These sandals have wowed customers thanks to their lightweight construction and extra metatarsal support for all foot types. The arch section is really dense and makes sure your arches are comfortably supported every time you step in them. This sandal has a rich leather upper with open toe design and an extra spacious front. The interior is lined with soft and breathable fabric so that when you make a step, your feet sink in and feel very nice. In short, the Drew Warren offers long-lasting support and comfort and is an excellent option for plantar fasciitis as well as lower back pain, high arches, heel spurs, tendonitis and joint pain. It perfectly accommodates wide feet, flat feet and feet with bunions.
8. KEEN Newport Sandals for Men
KEEN Men’s Newport Sandal can help alleviate even the most painful plantar fasciitis pain. You can wear these sandals all day long without experiencing any pain thanks to their excellent arch support and heel cushioning. What’s even more exciting is the fact that you can enjoy all of these benefits without having to break your bank.
KEEN Newport
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The sandals not only look great but feel even greater and are ideal for walking. They come with a very durable leather upper while the inside features soft and breathable fabric. There is a pull-on strap across the top so you can customize fit to your specific foot every time you wear them.
With regards to breathability, these sandals provide perfect breathability thanks to its anatomically correct footbed that is not only supportive but comfortable to be worn throughout the day. If you plan to walk on wet surfaces, you’ll appreciate the fact that these sandals have a raised toe front so your toes can be protected from all elements.
The sporty sandals also feature a heavy-duty, durable synthetic sole to keep you stable and grounded as well as offer great flexibility at the forefoot. The best part is that these sandals look great with summer shorts and slacks. You won’t have to worry about feeling off when taking day trips. KEEN has given you an elegant option on a classic sandal for your full satisfaction.
Women’s Sandals for Plantar Fasciitis
9. Vionic Amber Women’s Sandal
If your feet feel terrible due to plantar fasciitis, Vionic Amber Sandal makes all the difference. This easy-going sandal will be your new favorite companions as you’ll experience absolutely no pain from the moment you put them on. These are an excellent option for teachers, nurses and service workers. Super comfy right from the start, the Vionic Amber sandals have excellent arch support in the sole as well as superior cushioning all around the shoe. They feature an inch rocker bottom with a slip-resistant rubber sole to provide traction on a variety of surfaces.
Vionic Amber
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Basically, as you walk forward, they distribute your weight evenly helping you maintain the correct posture and natural gait. The interior features a smooth leather lining with a leather-covered cork and microfiber covered footbed for additional comfort. The footbed has patented Orthaheel technology designed to hug your calves and envelop them in comfort. Last but not least, the flexible EVA midsole absorbs shock and reduces stress on your feet, ankles and knees.
Many women confess to having found the most stylish yet supportive shoes, whereas those whose jobs involve being on their feet all day claim to have found a sandal that feels as if they are walking on clouds. Orthaheel technology is the phrase that many Plantar Fasciitis sufferers look for when trying to find a sturdy, comfortable shoe that will support their feet in all the right places and ease the pain. As a result, this specialized heel cushioning can be found in a wide range of shoes from different brands.
10. Taos Trulie Wedge Sandal
Taos Trulie Wedge sandal is undoubtedly one of the best sandals for plantar fasciitis. It is also perfect for arthritis, osteoporosis, ankle issues and back problems. With the Taos, you can walk all day long without experiencing any pain or fatigue. These shoes offer excellent arch support and are incredibly comfy. They measure 1.5 inches at the heel and slip gently towards the toe front enhancing your natural gait and resulting in less achy feet at the end of the day.
Taos Trulie
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The Taos Trulie have the perfect footbed covered in suede material and designed to softly wick away moisture from your feet. It is heavily cushioned and contoured for your feet and comes with an upper made from a combination of leather and synthetic. It also features hook and loop straps for a snug and secure fit. The straps are finished all the way from the back to the front. You’ll appreciate the way the shoe curves at the bottom to reduce heel pressure and propel your feet forward as you move.
The lightweight rubber sole is well treaded for more stability. The best part is that the sandal comes in a variety of colors, making it a really versatile shoe for your wardrobe. Anyone who is looking for happy feet, some comfort and personality, should buy this sandal. In short, it’s a very comfortable, supportive and eye-catching shoe that is great for alleviating plantar fasciitis.
11. Birkenstock Mayari
A stylish option for women from the legendary Birkenstock! They are as comfortable and supportive as the Arizona, but with a more fashionable look. We love the stylistic, interwoven straps and the detailed finish. These certainly don’t scream "medical’’ from the outside, and they are our top recommendation for women who are not only looking for style but also comfort. The Birkenstock Mayari features the same classic footbed as the Arizona. They are made from an ingenious combination of latex and cork material to conform to the shape of your feet relieving pressure from all pressure points.
Birkenstock Mayari
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Like the Arizona, the Mayaris also engage your foot muscles promoting a natural and aligned posture and gait. Thanks to the well-cushioned footbed, they are extremely therapeutic for plantar fasciitis as well as other foot problems. These sandals are the absolute best pair for any woman with numerous foot issues.They come with a cute strap design for those women who aren’t happy about Arizona’s laid-back design. In fact, the interwoven straps have a really beautiful and refined finish. Best of all, the sandal is available in a variety of colors and designs, in both synthetic and leather materials. And just like the Arizona, they are German-made and of high quality. You won’t go wrong with these cuties. There is something for every woman.
12. Dansko Sophie Sandal
The Dansko Sophie sandal offers wonderful arch support needed to prevent heel pain. Many women suffering from plantar fasciitis swear that the Dansko Sophie is the only sandal they can wear to help them relieve pain. This is because the sandals offer a lot of support and the deep heel cup works perfect by relieving pressure in all the right places. The thick sole, on the other hand, adds to the support by absorbing shock off each step and protecting you from outside elements.
Dansko Sophie
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It has a raised toe bar to enhance the natural gripping process of your toes. The Dansko Sophie is incredibly cushiony and comfy and makes walking less of a hassle. Women can spend their days walking or jogging and while away their nights dancing without worrying about getting out of bed feeling horrible. This sandal is much more easy-looking than custom orthotic shoes and is really elegant. It comes in different colors and designs and can be worn around the neighborhood and when going to work. Looking for sandals to walk I while enjoying the comfort your plantar fascia needs, the Dansko Sophie sandals offer incredible arch support and stability. They are certainly worth every penny.
13. Naot Kayla Wedge Sandal
Naot Kayla Wedge Sandal offers sturdy arch support and excellent comfort for your feet. It features an ankle strap, and that’s an advantage because it will prevent your toes from gripping the sandal too much and eventually developing hammer toes. These fabulous sandals are made of leather and feature soft fabric on the inside. There is a cork and latex covered footbed as well as a deep heel cup not to mention an excellently cushioned base in the heel for tons of comfort, support and shock absorption. The footbed gives your feet the feeling of walking on clouds.
Naot Kayla
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The three strap upper with hook and loop strapping allows you to create a snug and intimate fit for easy on and off. Its great padded midsole helps support and cradle your foot giving you comfort from morning to evening on a daily basis. The sandal sits on a small wedge platform made of synthetic to give you the stability and traction you need when walking on slippery surfaces. Because of this slight heel elevation, the shoe doesn’t need any break-in time. It feels comfortable right out of the box. These are certainly one of the most stylish and comfortable sandals that can be worn to work to promote healing and alleviate the pain caused by plantar fasciitis.
14. Mephisto Helen Thong Sandals
The Mephisto Helen Thong sandals provide terrific arch support that contours well with your feet. These are the ultimate solution for your plantar fasciitis. They are incredibly comfortable, and you can walk for long distances with them without worrying about heel pain. The level of comfort and support provided by these sandals is enough to accommodate high arches, flat feet, pronation, heel spurs, ankle issues and back problems. The Mephisto Helen Thong sandal is designed to be resilient and supportive. The synthetic outsole offers maximum traction, support and durability on all surfaces. They give your feet a better feel for any terrain.
Mephisto Helen
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The lightweight cork midsole with contoured footbed provides the cushioned comfort you’d expect from a top quality shoe. This ensures that the base of the shoe conforms to the shape of your feet cradling them in comfort and alleviating pain all the way from the heel to the knee and lower back. The upper is made of luxurious leather and features an adjustable buckle strap to ensure the shoe snugs comfortably to your foot. This sandal is extremely versatile because you can go for short walks in them and travel in them the whole day. Whatever you love doing, the soft extra cushioning makes it much more comfortable for your feet.
15. KEEN Whisper Sandal
The KEEN Whisper Sandal is another excellent option for women with plantar fasciitis who find it hard to wear their sandals without orthotics. It is perfect for high arches and feels great after walking. This sandal is ultra-soft to the touch and comes in fantastic color options including the Red Dhalia version in the picture. The upper planetary is made of a combination of textile and synthetic. It has a bungee capture lace system that you can customize to fit your specific foot type. There is also a KEEN logo on the backside to enhance its beauty.
KEEN Whisper
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It’s generously lined in the interior with an all textile construction with a hydrophobic mesh lining that is contoured to follow the shape of your feet with excellent arch support and Cleansport NXT for natural odor control. It’s made with compression molded EVA insole which helps absorb shock and offer incredible cushioning each and every step of the way. the non-marking rubber outsole is slip-resistant, and you can walk confidently without worrying about skid and slip accidents.
It’s also worth noting that this sandal is machine washable. You only have to use a small amount of detergent, then wash on the gentle cycle and finish by air drying. It's a good idea to toss an old towel in with washable shoes. It helps them get cleaner. Treat yourself to the lightweight comfort of these cuties. Your feet will definitely thank you.
16. Finn Comfort Sansibar
Stride with confidence with the Sansibar sandal from Finn. This sandal comes highly recommended by podiatrists because it offers all of the features needed to relieve plantar fasciitis pain and these include excellent arch support, cushioning and stability. This cute sandal has a rich leather upper that is perforated to keep your feet feeling dry and comfy. It also has a resilient cork and latex base which offers anatomical arch support to distribute your weight evenly over the entire foot thus reducing fatigue.
Finn Comfort Sansibar
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There is a removable leather soft footbed with extra cushioning for sensitive feet. The footbed has a great supportive structure that encourages a natural and correct posture by contouring to your feet and alleviating pressure from all pressure points. The Sansibar sandal also comes with a stylish broad band strap for a secure and snug fit right out of the box.
There is a water-based polyurethane outsole that absorbs shock and gives you flexibility as you walk on a variety of surfaces. You’ll appreciate the fact that it is super lightweight and you’re going to feel fantastic when wearing them. If you are looking for comfortable sandals that will help you alleviate plantar fasciitis, pain then you owe your feet these shoes from Finn.