Best Walking Shoes for High Arches

Editor’s Choice

Nike Motiva Walking Shoes

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Buy Men’s At Nike $110

editor’s choice

Salomon Xt-6 Sneakers

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Buy Now at nordstrom $200

editor’s choice

adidas Ultraboost 5x Shoes

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Buy men’s at adidas  $180

New Balance 1960R Shoes

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Buy now at new balance  $154.99

Orthofeet Nira Hands-Free Sneakers

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Buy Now at amazon $134.99

Asics Gel-Nimbus 26 Shoes

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Buy Men’s at Nordstrom $160

adidas Supernova Rise Sneakers

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Buy men’s at adidas $140

Best Walking Shoes for High Arches and Plantar Fasciitis

Hoka Bondi 8 Shoes

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Buy Men’s at zappos $165

On Cloudflyer 5 Sneakers

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Buy Men’s at on $170

Oofos Oomg Sport Low Walking Shoes

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Buy Men’s at Amazon $140

Allbirds Tree Runners Shoes

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Buy men’s at Allbirds $105

Vionic Classic Walker Sneakers

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Buy Men’s at Amazon $119.95

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If you have high arches, finding the most supportive walking shoes for your foot shape can help support you with every step you take — and prevent serious discomfort. “Typically, high arches cause pain,” says explains London-based celebrity podiatrist Marion Yau. “As a result, the heel and toes of your foot are under extra stress since the sole of your foot doesn’t provide much support. Runners and walkers may find it difficult to cope with the added stress.” That’s why it’s essential to own walking shoes that are specifically designed with arch and joint support in mind, with key features like generous cushioning, supportive insoles, and a roomy toe box.

High arches are the opposite of flat feet — those with high arches have more lift in the middle of their foot. “Our foot’s arch plays an important role in running and walking, maintaining balance, absorbing shock, and adapting to different surfaces,” explains Yau, adding that “there are some people who are born with high arches in their feet, and there are others who have medical conditions that contribute to their high arches.”

To determine whether or not you have high arches, Yau suggests a handy at-home test: “Using a piece of paper or concrete, wet your feet and stand on the surface,” she says. “Look at the imprint left behind after you move your feet. An individual with high arches will only see an imprint of their heel and front of their foot.” If that’s your result, you’re far from alone — the Cleveland Clinic estimates that about 20 percent of adults have high-arched feet.

High arches can make you more prone to a range of health conditions, according to Yau, such as metatarsalgia, plantar fasciitis, hammertoes, bunions, ankle instability, corns, or calluses. You may also have a tendency to supinate, which means that you place more weight on the outside of your foot while walking. For these reasons, we’ve included the best shoes for plantar fasciitis, the best shoes for bunions, and the best ankle support shoes on our list for all-around support for multiple concerns.

To find the best walking shoes for high arches, we consulted top experts. In addition to Yau, we also interviewed Dr. Emily Spichal, a podiatrist and founder of Naboso, as well as Dr. Jacqueline Sutera, a podiatrist and member of the Vionic Innovation Lab.

Editors’ Choice: Top 3 Walking Shoes for High Arches of 2024

Footwear News Shop editors routinely research the best shoes for the range of common foot types and concerns by enlisting invaluable podiatrist insight, riding the pulse of innovative shoe releases, and even learning first-hand as we treat pesky strain in our own high-arched feet. Our selections in this roundup of the best walking shoes for high arches is a result of comprehensive footwear market research, which includes pinpointing top brands that offer the best underfoot cushioning, arch support, and comfortable materials, as well as durable outsole traction and responsive midsoles that allow optimal energy return, no matter the terrain you roam.

While walking shoes for high arches require key supportive elements, they also come in a variety of styles that serve different functions. For this reason, our editors curated our top three options that represent a range of price points, style preferences, and comfort features. Each sneaker was rated on a checklist of essential criteria, such as arch support, cushioned comfort, durability, and versatile style.

• Nike Motiva Walking Shoes: Nike’s Motiva shoe comes highly recommended by one Footwear News Shop editor with high arches for its plush cushioning support and strain relief. Its cool, modern design gives more flair than a typical performance sneaker, all while boasting key elements that make for a superb walking shoe for high arches, such as a rocker heel, sock-absorption technology, padded collar, and a wide, roomy fit.
• Salomon Xt-6 Sneakers: The Salomon Xt-6 sneakers are a stylish, ultra-supportive walking sneaker for those with high arches. Durable traction provides stable footing on slick surfaces (they are technically trail-running shoes), while a deep heel cup and contoured insole hug the foot. One Footwear News editor with high arches and frequent bouts of plantar fasciitis swears by them.
• adidas Ultraboost 5X Sneakers: These top adidas walking shoes pair arch support with impressive energy return. Cushioned but not too heavy, the new Ultraboost 5X sneakers are an excellent choice for those who favor power walks, or someone in need of an everyday sneaker for both walking and running.

Editor’s Choice

Nike Motiva Walking Shoes

Size range: 6 to 15 men’s; 5 to 12 women’s
Colorways: Black, red, blue, white, pink, and more
Materials: Recycled plastic, rubber
Special features: Comfortgroove outsole; 1/2-inner sleeve; waterfall collar

$110 Buy Men’s At Nike

$110 Buy Women’s At Nike

The Motiva walking shoe was one of Nike’s top releases of 2023, and pose as an ideal everyday sneaker for hours-long foot support. The shoe’s shining feature is its exaggerated Comfortgroove rocker outsole that aids in super smooth transitions and practically effortless strides. You can rely on ultra-cushioned landings in these shoes, which are specially designed for shock absorption and all-around soft support, from a padded foam collar and heel, to an inner sleeve that reduces friction on your feet. Motiva’s wide-set footbed makes it a superb shoe for wide feet as well, and its breathable mesh upper will keep you feeling — and looking — cool.

Editor testing and review notes: “Upon a long walk with my dog wearing the Motiva shoes, I realized that for the first time in a long time, I didn’t experience a moment of discomfort while maintaining stability on the varying terrains. My podiatrist explained that the Motiva is a great walking shoe for my feet for its higher heel-to-toe drop and rocker bottom, which prevents any strain on my high arches, especially as a fast-walking heel striker. (Thanks to years of wearing fancy dress shoes on a daily basis, I suffer from mild plantar fasciitis.) Though I have borderline neutral-width feet, I was also happy with the roomy toe box that’s less common in Nike sneaker styles.” — Footwear News Director of Commerce Adam Mansuroglu

What testers say: “I’ve owned what feels like hundreds of Nike shoes and these by far are the best for overall design and maximum comfort! In my opinion everyone should try out these incredible shoes. Whoever designed these shoes deserves an award.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $110

editor’s choice

Salomon Xt-6 Sneakers

Size range: 4 to 13 men’s; 5 to 14 women’s
Colorways: Over 15 available
Materials: EVA cushioning, TPU film and mesh upper, high-traction Contagrip tread
Special features: Toggle lacing system; Agile Chassis System provides extra stability

$200 Buy Now at nordstrom

$200 Buy Now at salomon

Before the Salomon Xt-6 Sneakers were adopted by trendsetters like Emily Ratajkowski, Lily Collins, and Sophie Turner, these shoes were considered the gold standard for tackling tough terrain in harsh weather. And while they make pretty flawless trail running shoes, our editors recommend them for long walks on city streets, too — particularly for those with problematic feet. The Salomon Xt-6 shoes have a deep heel cup that’s essential for keeping those with high arches in proper alignment. If you like to feel like your feet are being cradled from the ground up, these are the walking shoes for high arches to reach for.

One major pro to the Salomon Xt-6 sneakers is their durability. The outsole provides traction to take you from rocky trails to slick pavement safely, while reinforcement near the toe keeps your feet protected on rough hikes.

Editor testing and review notes: “My Salomon sneakers are the best investment I’ve made for my foot health, hands down. I was initially drawn to the ‘gorpcore’ style of the shoes, but it’s the comfort that keeps me coming back. I have such high arches that my midfoot rarely makes contact with the insole of the shoe, however these sneakers have a deep heel cup that allows my entire foot to fall in place. They’ve become my go to walking shoes when I’m embarking on a long stroll in New York City, and they’re my go-to shoes for relief when I’m dealing with a plantar fasciitis flare up.” — Senior Lifestyle and Beauty Commerce Editor Claire Sullivan

Price upon publish date of this article: $200

editor’s choice

adidas Ultraboost 5x Shoes

Size range: 6 to 14 men’s; 5 to 11 women’s
Colorways: Over 13 available
Materials: Textile upper, light BOOST midsole, Continental Rubber outsole
Special features: Created with at least 20% recycled materials

$180 Buy men’s at adidas

$180 Buy women’s at adidas

adidas’ Ultraboost 5X sneakers lend major wattage to your power walks. The popular running shoe got an update this fall to decrease the sneaker’s weight while upping the energy return, propelling you forward for a smooth, floaty stroll. Notably, these walking shoes for high arches feature adidas’ Torsion system for rock-solid stability, while a stretchy mesh upper prevents pressure on the top of the foot, which is common for those with high arches. This is an excellent option for those who like the feel of a cushioned running shoe — this new-and-improved iteration offers 9mm more foam in the midsole.

Editor testing and review notes: “Trusty heel-to-toe comfort truly sets adidas’ Ultraboost 5X sneakers apart from previous pairs. After a couple of steps in these sneakers, the emphasis on energy return was evident, and that’s all thanks to the airy and responsive Light BOOST midsole. I even wore the Ultraboost 5X sneakers to the gym in place of my typical adidas workout shoes, spending time on the stair climber and rowing machine, only to realize they’re just as equipped to take on all types of daily exercises — not just running.” — Footwear News contributor Yoni Yardeni

Price upon publish date of this article: $180

New Balance 1960R Shoes

Size range: 4 to 14 men’s; 5.5 to 15.5 women’s
Colorways: Four available
Materials: Mesh upper with synthetic overlay; Acteva Lite midsole cushioning
Special features: Stability web outsole delivers improved arch support

$154.99 Buy now at new balance

$154.99 Buy Now at nordstrom

Comfortable walking shoes for high arches can be stylish, too — just look to the New Balance 1960R sneakers. At face value, the Y2K-inspired shoes flash tech-forward textures for versatile styling, but the real draw is their impressive arch support. In these top New Balance sneakers, you’ll enjoy midfoot cushioning from the brand’s Acteva Lite foam, plus extra structure with a Stability Web outsole that keeps your foot in proper alignment from foot strike to toe off.

Editor testing and review notes: “As a longtime fashion editor, walking shoes might not seem like the most exciting sneaker category, but New Balance changed the game. The resurgence of textural Y2K-era running shoes as modern lifestyle sneakers deliver the support my arches need with a look that adds a sporty flair to workwear and compliments weekend outfits. Truthfully, most New Balance styles feel great for my arches, however, the 1906R’s superb stability with support from a great heel cup and ample midsole cushioning make daily moves feel comfortable without any end-of-day aches. In short, they look cool and feel amazing.” — Mansuroglu

Price upon publish date of this article: $154.99

Orthofeet Nira Hands-Free Sneakers

Size range: 5 to 12 women’s; multiple widths available
Colorways: Gray, black, and blue
Materials:
Special features

$134.99 Buy Now at amazon

Orthofeet’s Nira Sneakers are the best walking shoes for those with high arches who need help staving off knee pain, back pain, or other foot concerns like bunions or hammertoes. Created with input from podiatrists, these shoes have all the bells and whistles to keep you comfortable. They feature springy cushioning from heel to toe, an orthotic insole that hugs the contours of your feet, and a stretchy upper that doesn’t rub against bunions or hammertoes. A hands-free design is great for those who with limited mobility or severe back pain, as you don’t have to bend over to get them on.

Price upon publish date of this article: $134.99

Asics Gel-Nimbus 26 Shoes

Size range: Women’s 5 to 13, men’s 6 to16
Colorways: 13 women’s options, 12 men’s options
Materials: Knit upper, rubber outsole
Special features: Puregel technology for shock absorption, foam made with 20 percent bio-based materials

$160 Buy Men’s at Nordstrom

$160 Buy Women’s at nordstrom

The Asics Gel-Nimbus line of walking shoes for high arches come highly recommended by Yau, who cites their “cushioning and traction, which is helpful for the high-arch foot as it can give support, which may reduce stress and injury.” Yau adds, “They contain Guidesole technology to reduce the load placed on the limb from foot strike to toe-off [i.e. a full step], which allows a high-arch foot to function through gait a lot easier.”

The Gel-Nimbus 26 sneakers are wonderful for walking or running, and help to reduce supination as well. They come in a range of bright and neutral colors, and feature reflective details for increased nighttime visibility.

What testers say: “I love the way they hug my feet at just the right spots, and give that extra toe room on the top. Also, I’ve been having some ankle pain, even in my easy runs with my other pair of daily trainers, and these shoes got rid of the pain almost instantly. I love them, and I’ve already run 200 miles in them. Definitely looking forward to logging more miles in them!”

Price upon publish date of this article: $160

adidas Supernova Rise Sneakers

Size range: 6.5 to 14 men’s; 5 to 11 women’s
Colorways: Over 10 options
Materials: Mesh upper, Dreamstrike+ midsole, Adiwear outsole
Special features: Support Rods improve stability

$140 Buy men’s at adidas

$140 Buy women’s at adidas

This lightweight walking shoe from adidas packs great value. The Supernova Rise sneakers feature the brand’s Dreamstrike foam that propels you forward while absorbing impact, making them a great choice for everyday strolls (and runs). While they’re not as plush as other sneakers on our list, a deep heel cup and ample midfoot cushioning caters to high arches.

Editor testing and review notes: “These adidas sneakers are comfortable straight out of the box. The day I unboxed them, I wore them on a six mile walk in New York City and didn’t experience an ounce of rubbing or a single blister. I have very high arches that often cause many sneakers to apply pressure on the top of my feet that gets increasingly painful throughout the day — the Supernova Rise sneakers have a soft, stretchy upper that prevents this from happening. They’re low-profile enough for me to wear them to brunch with a pair of jeans when my plantar fasciitis is flaring up, which is a bonus, too.” — Sullivan

Price upon publish date of this article: $140

Hoka Bondi 8 Shoes

Size range: Women’s 5 to 12, men’s 7 to 16
Colorways: 17 options for women’s, 16 options for men’s
Materials: Mesh, rubber
Special features: APMA-accepted, breathable mesh, ankle support, recycled materials

$165 Buy Men’s at zappos

$131.95 Buy Women’s at zappos

If you have high arches and always need a pair of shoes for plantar fasciitis nearby, you need a shoe that provides appropriate support for your feet, as well as your hips, knees, and back. But if you also have a job that requires you to wear shoes for standing all day, it’s absolutely imperative that you have shoes that will minimize foot pain. By all accounts, the Bondi 8 by Hoka is the one. Available in a range of colors to suit every mood, these shoes are accepted by the American Podiatric Medical Association for promoting foot health, and boast a supportive heel-toe drop, a memory foam collar for ankle support, and a crash pad to cushion your heels as they hit the ground, among other innovative features.

What testers say: “They took a few days to break in but now they’re my favorite shoes ever. I am a plus size nurse and am on my feet 10+ hours a day. With these, I have no pain in my feet, knees or back. They run true to size and I would suggest getting standard width as wide is a little too wide in my opinion. I will be buying another pair when these shoes are retired!”

Price upon publish date of this article: $131.95

On Cloudflyer 5 Sneakers

Size range: Women’s 5-11, men’s 7-14
Colorways: 5 Men’s, 5 Women’s
Materials: Polyester
Special features: Recycled materials, molded sockliner, CloudTec cushioning, external heel counter, 11mm heel-toe drop, stable, breathable

$170 Buy Men’s at on

$170 Buy Women’s at on

The Cloudflyer 5 has been branded the most comfortable running shoe ever by those who’ve tried it. These are designed with On’s trademarked CloudTec technology, which is engineered to provide cloud-like comfort and shock-absorbing cushioning, plus a molded sockliner to hug the shape of your foot. Between that and the 11mm heel-toe drop, these make a fantastic walking shoe for high arches. Plus it’s made from part recycled materials and comes in a wide fit, too. We’re sold.

What testers say: “I just bought On Cloudflyer running shoes. They are the most comfortable running shoes I have owned. I have put about 10 miles on them since I bought them and am very happy with my purchase. I tried several different running shoes before I settled on these. They ran about a half size smaller than I usually wear but purchasing a half size larger was just right.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $170

Oofos Oomg Sport Low Walking Shoes

Size range: Women’s 5 to 11, men’s 8 to14
Colorways: 3 men’s options, 3 women’s options
Materials: FibreFlex, Foam
Special features: Lightweight, OOfoam shock-absorbing technology

$140 Buy Men’s at Amazon

$140 Buy Women’s at Amazon

Whether you’re recovering from running a marathon or from foot surgery, Oofos’ offers exemplary orthopedic shoes that soothe muscle tension in high arches. The Oomg Sport Low Walking Shoes are designed with proprietary Oofoam technology, which efficiently absorbs impact with every step and provides cushioning and stability. Its plush, patented footbed also provides ideal arch and ankle support that relieve strain with every step.

What testers say: “I’ve had major foot reconstructive surgery following a horrid broken foot, and have been searching for an ultimate comfortable shoe for 6 years. I’m also pending a hip replacement and realized this week that when I wear my Oofos, the impact of my heel hitting the ground does not travel to my hip joint and cause blinding pain when I have on these shoes. Needless to say, I am wearing them every day, inside my house and outside my house. I am so grateful to have discovered them.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $140

Allbirds Tree Runners Shoes

Size range: Women’s 5 to 12, Men’s 6 to 15
Colorways: 14 men’s options, 14 women’s options
Materials: TENCEL™ Lyocell, SweetFoam, TPU, recycled plastic, Merino wool
Special features: Lightweight, breathable, sustainable materials

$105 Buy men’s at Allbirds

$105 Buy Women’s at allbirds

Allbirds is the destination for high-performing sustainable sneakers these days. The Tree Runners are made from a selection of planet-friendly materials, and the brand provides transparent information on their carbon footprint and production practices. Beyond that, these walking shoes are recommended for those with high arches. The SweetFoam midsole is made from sugarcane, which provides contouring for your foot and a bouncy feel as you walk, resulting in wonderful arch support and a smooth ride.

What testers say: “Bought these for my 85-year-old mother. She loves them. They give her the arch support she needs as well as the comfort you want in a sneaker.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $105

Vionic Classic Walker Sneakers

Size range: Women’s 5 to 11, men’s 7 to 13
Colorways: 8 women’s options; 4 men’s options
Materials: Mesh, EVA, rubber
Special features: Removable orthotic insert, breathable upper, cushioned outsole, stabilizing technology

$119.95 Buy Men’s at Amazon

$119.95 Buy Women’s at Amazon

Vionic works with foot health experts to create a range of some of the most supportive shoes on the market, as the brand specializes in arch support and thick cushioning to alleviate discomfort and promote overall foot — and holistic — health. The dad shoe-style Classic Walker sneakers are engineered with a removable orthotic insert that provides ample arch support, along with a cushioned outsole for soft landings, and the brand’s proprietary Vio-Motion Technology, which helps promote stability, forefoot mobility, and gait efficiency. These walking shoes are particularly comfortable walking shoes for plantar fasciitis, and we love that they come in two widths, suitable for narrow or wide feet.

What testers say: “Bought these after wasting so much money on orthopedic insoles that still didn’t support my high arches. I’m constantly fighting off plantar fasciitis and these shoes have saved my feet. No break-in time needed, I can walk several miles without any complaints from my feet at all. Loved them so much I bought a pair for my mom and daughter!”

Price upon publish date of this article: $119.95

What to Look for in the Best Walking Shoes for High Arches

Having high arches can lead to a slew of uncomfortable or painful foot conditions, but fortunately, choosing the right footwear can alleviate pain from common problems and discomfort, as well as helping to prevent the development of new conditions. Here are some factors to keep in mind when shopping for walking shoes for high arches, according to podiatrists.

• Arch support insoles: In order to feel comfortable while walking, you need a shoe that supports the shape of your foot. “ I always recommend shoes with arch support and cushion inside,” says Yau. “In addition to stabilizing and supporting the foot, the arch support also provides some comfort. As a result, pressure from the ground is distributed evenly throughout the foot, preventing pressure from being isolated. A foot arch support can ease foot pain as well as arch pain.”
• Cushioned insoles: You should look for walking shoes that are fitted with cushioned insoles, or alternatively add your own supination insoles. “High-arched feet are best treated with supportive, softer and more flexible, lightweight types of soles to accommodate the high arch,” says Dr. Sutera. “Avoid rigid, stiff, and flat shoes. The purpose of insoles and orthotics for those with high-arched feet is to accommodate, absorb shock and cushion.”
• Deep, wide toe box: Since those with high arches can often have hammertoes (toes that point upwards at the joint), they will benefit from walking shoes that can accommodate their toes. “My recommendation is to wear shoes with a deep, wide toe box,” says Yau. “The toe box is located at the front of the shoe, enclosing the toes. By doing so, the hammertoes can be accommodated and pain can be reduced.” The best shoes for wide feet help.
• Heel-toe drop: A slight heel-toe drop (meaning the shoe’s sole is higher at the back than at the front) can also help support those with high arches to walk comfortably. “This means that the heel is thicker than the front of the shoe, unlike a platform or very flat shoe,” Dr. Sutera says. “These tend to be better for those who need more arch support.” But this doesn’t mean you should favor a high-heeled shoe by any means. “ When the heel height is extremely high, the foot can be tipped forward due to the awkward angle caused by high arches,” warns Yau. “A result of this will be pain and deformities in the toes that result from clawing and jamming.”

What Does It Mean to Have High Arches?

The foot arch we’re referring to here is the curve underneath your foot. “High arches are a higher arch than normal,” explains Yau. “On the bottom of the foot, the arch runs from the toes to the heel, and in high-arch foot types the mid part of the foot is raised. Pes cavus is another name for this condition. A high arch is the opposite of a flat foot.”

Having high arches can unfortunately lead to a range of issues. “A high-arched foot is one that is typically more rigid and with restricted mobility in the ankle and hips. This means that a high-arch foot may have a harder time absorbing impact forces and transferring force,” explains functional podiatrist Dr. Emily Splichal.

Choosing the right footwear for high arches is crucial in preventing the development foot conditions. “If you have high arches, you should choose supportive shoes because wearing the wrong type of shoes can cause pain when walking or standing,” says Yau. “Having a high-arch foot can also lead to claw [toes] and hammertoes, as well as calluses on the toes and bottom of the foot, which can lead to ulcers. High arches can also change your foot’s shape, making finding shoes that fit difficult. Foot pain can be exacerbated by wearing shoes that don’t fit.”

How We Chose the Best Walking Shoes for High Arches

For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis, and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.

In order to select the best walking shoes for high arches, we conducted extensive research into the products currently on the market, as well as sifting through reviews to make sure we only included high-quality shoes that are actually supportive to real people with high arches. We spoke to expert podiatrists Marion Yau, Dr. Emily Splichal and Dr. Jacqueline Sutera to find out what those with high arches need to know when buying walking shoes. Our editors are constantly testing walking shoes for consideration in this article and will continue to update it with new releases and editor-loved favorites.  Learn more about us here.

Meet the Experts

Marion Yau is an award-winning celebrity podiatrist based in London, UK. She practices at The Harley Street Foot and Nail Clinic, where she specializes in the use of hot and cold laser therapy to treat fungal nail infections. Yau creates educational content on social media as Miss Foot Fixer. You can find her on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok.

Dr. Jacqueline Sutera is a surgically trained doctor of podiatric medicine, practicing at City Podiatry in Midtown Manhattan, New York. Dr. Sutera is also a member of the Vionic Innovation Lab, where she helps the brand develop supportive footwear technology designed to enhance foot health.

Dr. Emily Splichal is a functional podiatrist based in Chandler, Arizona, where she runs her Center for Functional and Regenerative Podiatric Medicine. Dr. Spichal is also the founder of performance-driven accessories line Naboso, which carries a range of insoles and other products designed to optimize movement from the bottom up.

Meet the Authors

Iris Goldsztajn is a freelance writer and editor based in London, UK. She is currently the morning editor at Marie Claire, and her work has appeared in the likes of British Vogue, InStyle, Refinery29, Bustle, and many more. As a journalist, Goldsztajn covers a range of topics including fashion, beauty and wellness. She is originally from Paris, France, and has lived in Los Angeles and New York City. Goldsztajn wrote this new version of our guide to the best walking shoes for high arches.

Claire Sullivan is the Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor for Footwear News and WWD. She has over eight years of experience as a writer and editor for national media outlets including Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle, and Byrdie. She keeps her finger on the pulse of all things related to beauty and wellness, regularly digging into foot health-related topics. Sullivan, who has high arches and frequent bouts of plantar fasciitis, contributed to this article on the best walking shoes for high arches with her firsthand shoe testing notes and more information on key features to look for in the best pairs for the foot condition.

Best Cushioned Running Shoes of 2024

Editor’s choice

Nike Alphafly 3 Running Shoes

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Buy now At Nike $285

editor’s choice

Hoka Speedgoat 6 Running Shoes

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Buy Men’s At ZAppos $155

Editor’s choice

adidas Supernova Prima Sneakers

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Buy men’s at adidas $160

Editor’s choice

On Cloudmonster 2 Running Shoes

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Buy men’s at nordstrom $180

Best Stability Cushioned Running Shoes

Saucony Guide 17 Running Shoes

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Buy Men’s At amazon $140

adidas Ultraboost 5X Sneakers

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Buy men’s at adidas $180

Hoka Clifton 9 Running Shoes

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Buy Men’s At zappos $145

Nike Invincible 3 Run Flyknit Running Shoes

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Buy Men’s At Nike $180

Asics Gel-Nimbus 26 Shoes

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Buy Men’s AT amazon $160

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V13 Running Shoes

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Buy Men’s AT nordstrom $160

Best Cushioned Running Shoe for Ultramarathons

Salomon Ultra Glide 2 Running Shoes

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Buy Men’s At Salomon $150

Altra Olympus 6 Running Shoes

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Buy Men’s At Amazon $174

Best Cushioned Running shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 Running Shoes

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Buy Men’s At Zappos $140

Best Neutral Cushioned Running Shoes

Asics Novablast 4 Running Shoes

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Buy Men’s AT Zappos $140

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The level of cushioning you look for from run to run can vary greatly. “Cushioned” might mean something very different for you the day after a marathon versus the day after a rest day, so it’s important to understand what the best cushioned running shoe is for you, and when different levels of cushioning will be beneficial to your running routine.

Any day of the year, cushioned running shoes bring benefits. The most immediate is that they lessen the impact of repeated ground strike on your foot. Think about it like a shock absorber on a mountain bike: The more cushioning you have between your foot and the ground, the less you are going to feel the impact. But how those benefits translate from runner to runner can vary widely.

“While we all seek the immediate comfort a cushioned shoe can provide, the benefit of the shoe ultimately depends on your individual biomechanics and how they work with the materials and geometries used in the design,” says Bekah Broe, director of product performance footwear at Hoka. A bit of extra cushioning can be particularly beneficial for underpronators who may need running shoes for plantar fasciitis, heel pain, or achilles tendonitis.     

If you polled a group of runners and asked them to describe what a “cushioned” running shoe looks and feels like, they would probably describe something with a thick midsole that feels soft underfoot. But is that the whole truth? The reality is that the best cushioned running shoe can look and feel very different depending on the runner. 

“Heavier runners compress the foam more than their lighter counterparts do, so what one runner finds cushioned, another may not,” advises running coach Cory Smith. And while increased cushioning generally provides a soft feeling that lessens the impact of ground strike, “it’s only one element in the underfoot formula that brings a running experience to life,” says Broe. 

Brands have continued to innovate the space over the years, constantly introducing new tech that strives to provide the best cushioned stride for any type of runner. In fact, most of the cushioned running shoes on this list are new releases for 2024.

We consulted running experts to help demystify what makes the best cushioned running shoes for both men and women. Keep reading to see our top picks for running shoes with cushioning, along with expert tips for what to look for in a cushioned running shoe for every foot type and condition.

Editor’s Choice: Top 3 Cushioned Running Shoes of 2024

There’s not one best overall cushioned running shoe on our list given the variation in the category and important factors that vary person to person. Selecting the right pair of cushioned running shoes for you depends on your foot type, whether you run on city pavement or gravel-laden trails, and your mileage, to name a few factors. Our editorial team considered these details and more to whittle down our top three picks for the best cushioned running shoes of 2024, all of which are highly rated and cover a range of needs and preferences. See our winners podium, below.

• Nike Alphafly 3 Running Shoes: The best cushioned running shoes for race day are Nike’s top-rated super shoes, the Alphafly 3 Running Shoes. Responsible for a slew of marathon records and personal bests, these sneakers propel you to the finish line with Nike’s highest rebounding foam, ZoomX, plus a full-length carbon fiber plate.
• Hoka Speedgoat 6 Running Shoes: Recently featured Footwear News’ list of the Greatest Shoes of All Time, the Hoka Speedgoat 6 sneakers are the best cushioned trail running shoes according to our experts. For the latest iteration, Hoka was able to increase the amount of bouncy cushioning without increasing the shoes’ weight for a comfortable ride.
• adidas Supernova Prima Sneakers: Those who are looking for cushioned running shoes for everyday jogs, training runs, and walking should opt for adidas’ Supernova Prima sneakers. These shoes team adidas’ newest foam, Dreamstrike Pro, with a stability-boosting Support Rod system for supreme comfort and energy return.

Editor’s choice

Nike Alphafly 3 Running Shoes

Size range: 6 to 15 men’s; 7.5 to 16.5 women’s 
Weight: 7.6 oz
Materials: ZoomX + Zoom Air midsole 
Drop: 8 millimeters 

$285 Buy now At Nike

A top super shoe that’s responsible for a slew of marathon records and personal bests, the Nike Alphafly 3 is the cushioned running shoe you want on your feet on race day. Since its inception in 2018, Smith has been recommending it to all of his clients looking to set a personal best that clocks in around or is better than their Boston Marathon qualifying time. 

Speed and cushioning are typically two opposing forces: Highly cushioned running shoes are typically bulkier and heavier than traditional running shoes, which can slow you down. But the Alphafly 3 mystically breaks that mold. What’s the secret sauce to this top Nike running shoe? The combination of Nike’s highest rebounding foam, ZoomX, plus a full-length carbon fiber plate.

While keeping key elements of the Alphafly series, this third iteration is now 15 percent lighter than previous models. The Alphafly 3 shoes also improve on previous versions of the super shoes with a last that expands around the midfoot for more comfort around the arch. In October 2023, the late Kelvin Kiptum wore a prototype of these Nike super shoes when he broke the men’s marathon record at the Chicago Marathon with a time of 2:00:35.

What testers say: “Alphafly 3 fits like a glove with decent room for the toes! They’re light (not bulky like the previous version), comfy, and most importantly fast. I literally broke my personal time in my first run.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $285

editor’s choice

Hoka Speedgoat 6 Running Shoes

Size range: 7 to 15 men’s; 5 to 12 women’s
Weight: 9.8 oz men’s; 8.2 oz women’s
Materials: EVA foam midsole; Vibram Megagrip with Traction Lug
Drop: 5 millimeters 

$155 Buy Men’s At ZAppos

$155 Buy Women’s At Zappos

There’s a reason the Speedgoat is Hoka’s number one trail shoe and one of the few running shoes to be included in Footwear News’ list of the Greatest Shoes of All Time — it’s just so darn comfortable. If we were stuck on an island filled with the world’s best running trails, the Speedgoat would most certainly be the one shoe we would want to bring. Not only is it a great trail running shoe, but it doubles as a super cushioned road shoe as well.

“The Speedgoat has created a signature Hoka ride on the trails and taken countless athletes reliably across ultra distances, over gnarly terrain and into new levels they never thought possible,” says Colin Ingram, vice president of global product at Hoka. “With each iteration of the shoe, we have continuously innovated the Speedgoat, pushing the boundaries on the trail.”

For the Speedgoat 6, Hoka increased the amount of cushioning in the sneakers without increasing the total weight — a major win. The brand also upped the durability of the sneakers with new mesh material in the upper; note that this decreases the ventilation, but that feature may be appealing to those seeking out winter running shoes.

See more of Footwear News’ Great Shoes of All Time

What testers say: “I like the new Speedgoat 6 much better than the Speedgoat 5, and I’ve owned several pairs of 5s. Positives: Same fit with the wide width. Stiffer front sole and much stiffer heel counter. Brought back the heel loop. Eliminated the horizontal seam between the toe and laces that would occasionally catch on rocks. Negatives: The initial release is only available in eye-scorching colors. Highly recommended!”

Price upon publish date of this article: $155

Editor’s choice

adidas Supernova Prima Sneakers

Size range: 6.5 to 13 men’s; 5 to 11 women’s
Weight: 290 grams men’s; 242 grams women’s
Materials: Mesh upper, textile lining, Dreamstrike+ midsole
Drop: 8 millimeters men’s; 7 millimeters women’s

$160 Buy men’s at adidas

$160 Buy women’s at adidas

Our pick for the best cushioned running shoes for everyday runs? The adidas Supernova Prima Sneakers. The brand maxes out the amount of Dreamstrike+ super foam in these sneakers; the material is one of adidas’ latest running shoe innovations, debuting in December 2023. Dreamstrike+ foam was developed to be a more comfort-driven take on adidas Lightstrike Pro material that powers its popular Adizero franchise.

For stability and control with every foot strike, the Supernova Prima sneakers feature a fine-tuned Support Rod system that provides more stability in the forefoot. And for comfort when you work up a sweat, these top cushioned running shoes have a breathable engineered mesh upper that’s breathable and doesn’t rub while you clock miles.

What testers say: “Like running on clouds. Great bounce and lovely soft cushioning around the ankle. Definitely recommended.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $160

On Cloudmonster 2 Running Shoes

Size Range: 7 to 14 men’s; 5 to 11 women’s
Weight: 275 g men’s; 230 g women’s
Materials: CloudTec midsole 
Drop: 6 millimeters 

$180 Buy men’s at nordstrom

$180 Buy women’s at on

On’s unique-looking running shoes feature holes in the sole, (or as On calls them, “CloudTec”) that create a one-of-a-kind feeling. We’ve found most On running shoes have a firmer underfoot ride, but the Cloudmonster is an exception. Just as its name suggests, this shoe is packed with plush cushioning.

These are by far Smith’s favorite On running shoes. They offer a fun, bouncy feel with every stride, and considering how lightweight they are, they make a great long-run, uptempo or even race day shoe when comfort is a top priority. 

Editor testing and review notes: “I turned to On’s cushioned running shoes after a spat of plantar fasciitis that left my feet tight and in pretty constant pain. After swapping them into my rotation for road runs in New York City or treadmill workouts, my foot pain has substantially subsided. I have to lace them pretty tightly for a secure fit — they truly are a wide fit. But they’re worth it for me because of the comfortable, bouncy ride they deliver.” — Footwear News Senior Commerce Editor Claire Sullivan

Price upon publish date of this article: $180

Best Stability Cushioned Running Shoes

Saucony Guide 17 Running Shoes

Size Range: 7 to 16 men’s; 5 to 12 women’s 
Weight: 9.4 oz men’s; 8.1 oz women’s
Materials: PWRRUN midsole, CenterPath Technology
Drop: 6 millimeters 

$140 Buy Men’s At amazon

$140 Buy Women’s At amazon

Up until 2022, the Guide was well regarded for being an excellent stability running shoe, but fell a little flat if you were looking for extra cushioning. Not so anymore! The latest iteration of the Saucony Guide sneakers team foot-stabilizing features with a hefty amount of cushioning for a comfortable everyday trainer.

The CenterPath Technology provides a broad platform and higher sidewalls that keep your foot in proper alignment as you move. Couple that with the excellent PWRRUN cushioned midsole and you have a stability shoe that should be high on your list for consideration. 

What testers say: “Great shoe for stability and comfort, helps with plantar fasciitis!”

Price upon publish date of this article: $140

adidas Ultraboost 5X Sneakers

Size range: 6.5 to 14 men’s; 5 to 11 women’s
Weight: 9.7 oz men’s; 8.4 oz women’s
Materials: Light BOOST midsole, textile upper and lining
Drop: 10 millimeters

$180 Buy men’s at adidas

$180 Buy women’s at adidas

If comfortable luxury is what you’re after, look no further than adidas’ Ultraboost line of sneakers. The adidas Ultraboost 5X, not to be confused with the Ultraboost 5.0, features a re-engineered LightBoost midsole that adds 9mm more foam. Energy return has been increased by 2 percent at the forefoot compared to the Ultraboost Light, which had been the lightest Ultraboost sneaker to date, while weight has been reduced by 34 grams. adidas’ Torsion system helps provide support in the midsole, and a new adaptive Primeknit upper offers an enhanced fit with better breathability.

Excellent performance aside, these also make for some of the best cushioned running shoes for standing all day or walking. Sneakerheads love the Ultraboost for its clean, classic aesthetic, so you’ll look great around town–even if you’re moving at a slower pace.

Editor testing and review notes: “Trusty heel-to-toe comfort truly sets adidas’ Ultraboost 5X sneakers apart from previous pairs. After a couple of steps in these sneakers, the emphasis on energy return was evident, and that’s all thanks to the airy and responsive Light BOOST midsole. I even wore the Ultraboost 5X sneakers to the gym in place of my typical adidas workout shoes, spending time on the stair climber and rowing machine, only to realize they’re just as equipped to take on all types of daily exercises — not just running.” — Footwear News contributor Yoni Yardeni

Price upon publish date of this article: $180

Hoka Clifton 9 Running Shoes

Size range: 7 to 16 men’s; 5 to 12 women’s
Weight: 8.9 oz men’s; 7.2 oz women’s
Materials: EVA Foam midsole 
Drop: 5 millimeters 

$145 Buy Men’s At zappos

$145 Buy Women’s At zappos

It’s impossible to talk about cushioned running shoes without mentioning Hoka. After all, Hoka running shoes started the maximum cushioning shoe trend. One of Hoka’s best maximum cushioned everyday neutral trainers is the Clifton 9.

Everything about the model is the epitome of luxury, from the pillow-like cushioning under your feet to the heavily padded tongue and heel collar. The Clifton 9 is Smith’s go-to shoe for recovery runs and occasions when you need long distance running shoes, when your legs just can’t handle the harsh impact of concrete. Sometimes, tall, softer midsoles can feel mushy and wobbly, but while this model is not classified as a stability running shoe, its wide base allows for a secure, stable ride. A new, lighter midsole compound also knocked nearly 15 percent off the weight of this model compared to previous iterations, giving the Clifton 9 a faster feeling.

What testers say: “The Clifton 8’s have been a life saver for me!! I couldn’t imagine walking around without them on me Feet!! I recommend these sneakers to everyone I can! I even buy them as gifts for family members!”

Price upon publish date of this article: $145

Nike Invincible 3 Run Flyknit Running Shoes

Size range: 6 to 15 men’s; 5 to 12 women’s
Weight: 10.9 oz men’s; 9.1 oz women’s
Materials: ZoomX midsole 
Drop: 9 millimeters 

$180 Buy Men’s At Nike

$180 Buy Women’s At Nike

Nike’s ZoomX foam is distinguished. It’s extremely soft, highly responsive, and allows for an oh-so smooth ride. So, it’s no surprise that when Nike first made a maximum cushioned everyday trainer with nothing but ZoomX, it would become an instant classic. Featuring a hefty dose of ZoomX under the heel (36 millimeters), the Invincible 3 is perfect for everything from uptempo long runs to recovery runs.

It has an exaggerated, wide forefoot that allows for a more stable ride and makes it one of the best cushioned running shoes with a wide toe box. You would think a shoe this wide and thick-soled would be a drag, but it’s not at all. Thanks to the bouncy foam and slight rockered forefoot, heel-to-toe transitions are made smooth and snappy. While all the softness underfoot lessens the impact, the Flyknit upper wraps your foot in complete comfort. 

What testers say: “The ZoomX foam is the star here. Very, very cushy and yet reasonably responsive for all the cushioning. This shoe is about as easy on my legs as any shoe I’ve ever worn.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $180

Asics Gel-Nimbus 26 Shoes

Size range: 6 to 16 men’s; 5 to 13 for women
Weight: 305 grams men’s; 260 grams women’s
Materials: FF Blast Eco Plus midsole; Hybrid Asicsgrip
Drop: 8 millimeters

$160 Buy Men’s AT amazon

$160 Buy Women’s AT amazon

Asics’ Nimbus 26 cushoined running shoes deliver on their namesake with a dreamy, cloud-like ride. That’s thanks to the combination of the brand’s shock-absorbing PureGel technology, plus the ultra-plush FF Blast Eco Foam.

This cushioned running shoe provides superior cushioning from a midsole that stands up extremely well to compression and really any weight load. The midsole is also wider than many, creating a stable base and making this a superior neutral shoe suitable for runners of any weight class.  

What testers say: “They are just heavenly to wear and I wouldn’t change a thing.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $160

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V13 Running Shoes

Size range: 7 to 16 men’s; 5 to 13 women’s
Weight: 9.8 oz men’s; 7.7 oz women’s
Materials: Fresh Foam X midsole 
Drop: 6 millimeters 

$160 Buy Men’s AT nordstrom

$160 Buy Women’s At Nordstrom

New Balance just nailed the 1080 v13. It’s hands down the best-cushioned trainer in the New Balance suite of running shoes, and by far one of our favorites. The full-length Fresh Foam X midsole feels soft without being too mushy, hitting a happy medium of responsive cushioning. While the new model is lighter by about half an ounce, it’s still not a super-light shoe. But rest assured that it feels nimble for being so thick-soled.

It’s not a racing shoe, but it has the ability to respond if your competitive side takes over. The engineered knit upper is one the best Smith has ever tested. It reminds him somewhat of Nike’s Flyknit or Adidas’ Primeknit upper. It’s soft, stretchy and super comfortable and accommodating to a wide array of foot shapes. This would be a great option for runners who struggle to find wide enough shoes due to the stretchy nature of the upper.

What testers say: “The most comfortable shoes you will ever wear. I tried a handful of shoes from Hoka, On Cloud, Nike, and other models of NB, and these were three levels above anything else comfort-wise. Not even close.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $160

Best Cushioned Running Shoe for Ultramarathons

Salomon Ultra Glide 2 Running Shoes

Size range: 7 to 14 men’s; 5 to 11 women’s
Weight: 9.17 oz men’s; 8.46 oz women’s
Materials: Energy Foam midsole  
Drop: 6 millimeters 

$150 Buy Men’s At Salomon

$150 Buy Men’s at Zappos

$150 Buy Women’s At Salomon

$150 Buy Women’s at Zappos

Salomon has been known for making the best trail running shoes, but never released a highly cushioned trail running shoe until the Salomon Ultra Glide. Now updated, the Salomon Ultra Glide 2 is a maximum cushioned trail running shoe ideal for ultra running or comfortable everyday trail runs. The best part of the Ultra Glide 2 is its Energy Foam midsole, featuring a newer lightweight, responsive foam created by combining a traditional EVA with Olefin. The result is a soft, smooth ride.

If you’re used to Salomon running shoes, you’ll find the Ultra Glide 2 to have a more relaxed fit through the mid and forefoot. This wider design gives your feet more room, accommodating foot swell during extra-long or hot days on the trails, and making it a great pair of shoes for wide feet. Like most maximum cushioned shoes, it doesn’t perform the best through tacky technical terrain. But when it comes to smooth single track, fire roads or even concrete roads, it offers the same smooth sailing we loved in the original Ultra Glide. 

What testers say: “The cushion is amazing. It feels like I can run all day. Overall a great shoe, perfect for buffed-out trails/fire roads here on the Central Coast of California.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $150

Altra Olympus 6 Running Shoes

Size range: 7 to 15 men’s; 5.5 to 12 women’s
Weight: 13 oz men’s; 10.95 oz women’s
Materials: Balanced cushioning midsole 
Drop: 0 millimeters 

$174 Buy Men’s At Amazon

$174 Buy Women’s At Amazon

For long, slow trail runs there is no better shoe out there than the Altra Olympus 6. It’s heavier than many cushioned running shoes and is not nimble by any stretch of the imagination, but if you’re looking for cushion over rocky and varied terrain, this is an excellent option.

These shoes offer excellent cushioning thanks to the thick 33 mm Balanced Cushioning midsole but where they really excel is in underfoot traction. They feature a Vibram outsole and super deep canted lugs that are purposefully placed underneath the metatarsals to provide even more traction than usual. If you’re willing to spend a bit extra to keep your foot comfortable over any terrain, the Altra Olympus 6 is the shoe for you.  

What testers say: “These are hands down the best running shoes that I’ve ever purchased – they fit my feet perfectly. I have a wide forefoot (thanks to ski boots), high arch, high instep, and narrow heel and even hoka’s weren’t as comfortable. Not to mention I can easily fit my superfeet orthotics in them.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $174

Best Cushioned Running shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 Running Shoes

Size range: 7 to 15 men’s; 5 to 13 women’s
Weight: 10.1 oz men’s; 9.1 oz women’s
Materials: DNA Loft V2 midsole 
Drop: 12 millimeters 

$140 Buy Men’s At Zappos

$140 Buy Women’s At Zappos

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS has been beloved by runners for its excellent support for over 20 years. And there is a reason for that staying power. The latest model features the brand’s GuideRail technology and work to keep extra movement in check by keeping you closer to your natural stride even when you get tired. They provide next level support (and relief) for your hips, knees and, especially, feet–as endorsed by the American Podiatric Medical Association.

The midsole is built up a bit more than other models which is great for your alignment and countering plantar fasciitis. Not only are these some of the best shoes for plantar fasciitis, but they’re also top cushioned running shoes for flat feet, wide feet, and even bad knees as well. And with improvements to Brooks’ DNA Loft cushioning in the midsole, the ride is softer and lighter than ever.   

What testers say: “These are my second pair of Adrenaline GTS, I did a six mile run straight out of the box.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $140

Best Neutral Cushioned Running Shoes

Asics Novablast 4 Running Shoes

Size range: 6 to 15 men’s; 5 to 12 women’s 
Weight: 8.9 oz men’s; 7.8 oz women’s
Materials: Flytefoam Blast PLUS Midsole  
Drop: 8 millimeters 

$140 Buy Men’s AT Zappos

$140 Buy Women’s At Zappos

Smith very clearly remembers when he first saw the Asics Novablast at a running conference in Austin, Texas. His eyes were immediately drawn to its eye-catching midsole with sharp geometric lines. Upon putting the shoes on, he found the step-in to be amazing yet very uncharacteristic of Asics, as the brand’s styles always offered a firmer underfoot feeling. Everything from this cushioned running shoe’s plush midsole to its nicely padded upper screams comfort. And while running in these, the experience is no different.

The Flytefoam Blast midsole offers up a soft, smooth ride perfect for everyday runs, with one reviewer mentioning the style is ideal for athletes who “prefer a bouncy, cushioned feel but also like to pick up the pace a little.” With an over-exaggerated midsole under the heel and eight millimeter drop, the Novablast 4 builds on the excellence of previous models and is a great choice for rearfoot strikers seeking a neutral shoe. If you haven’t worn an Asics running shoe in a while, this is the one we suggest you try.

What testers say: “They are my current standard choice for asphalt/concrete running training. They are cushy and bouncy, while also allowing me to run faster if I choose to. I believe that thanks to these shoes I improved my running form. These are neutral shoes, and thanks to the softness of the sole foam I discovered that I’m slightly pronating, which even computer imaging of my feet did not pick up. Knowing this helped me a lot to adjust how I run as well. If you are a neutral runner, and want an upgrade over your typical beginner running trainers, these shoes should be on the top of your list.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $140

What to Look for in the Best Cushioned Running Shoes 

• Level of cushioning: The amount of foam in between your foot and the ground is called stack height, and it’s one of the most obvious indicators of cushioning according to Smith. The higher the stack of the shoe, the more cushioning it contains and the softer the ride is likely to feel. 
• Firmness: The other major factor in determining cushioning according to Smith, is the durometer, or the firmness of the foam under your foot. You can use a device to get a reading on the materials. The higher the reading, the firmer, and therefore less plush, the material is. 
• Materials: With stack height and durometer in mind, you’ll want to look for shoes that utilize materials and technologies that are appropriate for your own personal preferences. Not all foams are created equal, so pay attention to how the individual foam feels under your foot. A shoe with a high stack could also feature materials that score high on a durometer and might not be as cushioned as you want. 
• Weight: More cushioning generally means more materials and generally means more weight. Be ready to carry a slightly heavier load on your runs. If that’s a deterrent for you, pay close attention to brands like adidas that offer lightweight cushioning technologies.   

The Different Types of Cushioned Running Shoes

• Long-distance cushioned running shoes: When you’re logging long miles, you’re also subjecting your body to extra stress and opening up the possibility of injuries like plantar fasciitis. A well cushioned running shoe can help prevent many of those issues. Look for shoes with thick midsoles that are fairly rigid and feature structure in both the sole and heel counter. The more there is to keep your foot into position, the better.
• Cushioned trail-running shoes: When you’re on the trail, the surfaces you are going to encounter underfoot are a lot more variable. Find shoes that offer thick lugs to give you traction, rock plates or even carbon fiber to help protect your feet from injury on craggy surfaces, and waterproofing to keep you dry when you cross a stray creek.  
• Cushioned running shoes for walking: The best shoes for running are also generally some of the best shoes for walking for men and women. But walking and running have very different gaits and affect your foot strike differently. When selecting the best running shoe for walking don’t worry as much about the weight of your shoe. Heavy, dense foams will provide you with better stability and are better aligned to the consistent, slow pace of walking.  
• Cushioned running shoes for standing all day: Staying on your feet all day leaves you exposed to more strain than normal. To avoid common overuse injuries seek out shoes that have extra cushioning in the heel, good midfoot and arch support, and moisture wicking materials to keep your feet dry. 

The Best Cushioned Running Shoes for Different Foot Types and Conditions

It’s always important to listen to your feet, and that is especially true when you know you are predisposed to a certain foot type or condition. You will want to look for cushioned running shoes that include the same special features you normally seek out. 

• Cushioned running shoes for flat feet: Flat feet are defined by low arches or a foot that entirely touches the ground. If that is you, look for shoes that have a wide last with a design that is relatively straight underfoot.
• Cushioned running shoes for wide feet: For those with particularly wide feet you’ll want to find shoes that come in multiple widths. Lacking that option, make sure that the model you select has a roomy toe box, or shop shoe brands known for having a wider fit, like On.
• Cushioned running shoes for stability: Stability is of key importance for those who overpronate (aka when arch of your foot falls inward). Look for shoes with plenty of arch support and stabilizing features like medial posts, heel counters, and heel wedges. 
• Cushioned running shoes for back pain and knee pain: If you’re on your feet all day, chances are you might suffer from more knee pain or back pain than others. Extra cushioning coupled with a snug, supportive fit are a great first step to alleviating both problems.

Cushioned Running Shoes FAQs

Who should wear cushioned running shoes?

Who should wear a cushioned running shoe and when really comes down to your personal preference and the intent behind your runs. Cushioned running shoes generally offer, “a softer or compliant ride that feels like a luxurious, even cruise-like experience,” comments Hoka’s Broe. You, like Smith, might appreciate a cushioned running shoe on a recovery day. Or you might look for more cushioning to help combat the terrain or your trail runs or provide the added comfort you need to go the extra miles in your long-distance running shoes. And they can be particularly helpful if you suffer from any number of foot conditions, especially plantar fasciitis. 

How often should I buy cushioned running shoes? 

As with any running shoe, it’s better to err on the side of caution and replace them prematurely. And since cushioned shoes tend to have very soft midsoles, you will probably need to replace them more often according to Smith. “As the foam compresses repeatedly with each foot strike, it starts to lose its rebounding properties and can have the potential to wear unevenly,” he warns. And when that happens your risk of injury goes way up.

Keep an eye out for some of the telltale signs of a compressed or uneven midsole, like creases and lines along the sidewalls of your shoes or holes in your uppers. Smith generally advises they should last through about 200 miles or six months of wear. 

What are the best cushioned running shoes for heavy runners? 

Exerting more force onto the sole of your foot causes more compression. That means that the heavier you are the more compression you are going to experience. If that is the case, your impression what the best cushioned running shoe might be different than that of a lighter runner. You’ll be interested in looking for models that sport denser cushioning materials and, subsequently, probably weigh a bit more as well. The Asics Gel Nimbus 26 and the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1050 V13 are all options with excellent, dense foam midsoles that stand up well to compression.  

How We Selected the Best Cushioned Running Shoes

For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.

When it comes to selecting the best shoes in any category, we take the job very seriously, constantly testing models throughout the year. And that was no exception when we sought out the best cushioned running shoes for both men and women. We tapped Cory Smith, an expert running coach, tested most of the shoes ourselves, interviewed industry experts, and scoured online reviews to compile real customer feedback. The result is a researched list of the best cushioned running shoes for all foot types and conditions. Learn more about us here.

Meet the Experts

Cory Smith has been a runner and running coach for over 25 years. He holds a USA Track & Field Level 1 and 2 Endurance Certification, three former Maryland State records, and is a two-time NCAA Division National championships qualifier. 

Bekah Broe is the director of product for performance footwear at Hoka. 

Meet the Authors

Peter Tittiger is a freelance journalist and content consultant. He is also an avid runner and a slave to his feet. A firm believer in “No Days Off,” he regularly logs at least five runs a week and cross-trains in the pool or on a bike. He has trained for and run in nearly a hundred races, including the New York City Marathon, multiple completions of the full, 5-borough, NYRR half-marathon circuit, and annual completion of the Falmouth Road Race. 

Claire Sullivan is the Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor for WWD and Footwear News. She has over eight years of experience as a writer and editor for national media outlets including Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle, and Byrdie. She keeps her finger on the pulse of all things related to beauty and wellness, regularly digging into foot-related topics like plantar fasciitis or at-home foot peels. Sullivan, who’s completed two half marathons, contributed to the September 2024 update of this article on the best cushioned running shoes and owns multiple pairs on this list.

Top Supination Insoles of 2024

Editor’s choice

Superfeet All Purpose Support High Arch Insoles

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Buy Now at superfeet $54.99

Naboso Activation Supination Insoles

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Buy Now at Amazon $55

Walk Hero Arch Support Insoles

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Powerstep Pinnacle High Arch-Supporting Supination Insoles

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Footscientific Type 3 Supination and High Arch Orthotic Insoles

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Prothotic Ultra Arch Supination Insoles

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TreadLab Ramble Supination Insoles

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Good Feet Arch Supports

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If you wear unsupportive shoes, adding one of the best insoles can dramatically make standing, walking, and running, more comfortable. Depending on your arch type and gait, there are different types of insoles that provide a certain level of cushioning and support. For people who supinate, or underpronate, wearing the best supination insoles in your shoes offers the stability and shock absorption you need.

So what exactly does it mean to supinate? If you’re someone who tends to put extra pressure on the outer parts of your feet while walking or running, your feet supinate. Supination is the opposite of overpronation, which happens when your feet roll inward as you walk.

Supination is most often associated with people who have high arches, says New York City-based podiatrist Dr. Casey Ann Pidich. “If someone has a high foot arch, the arch doesn’t flatten out when standing,” Dr. Pidich says. “Supination can be a result of genetics; it’s also from specific muscles overpowering others in your legs and feet.” For example, tight posterior tibial muscles (deep muscles in the backside of your lower leg) overpowering weak peroneal muscles (side muscles of your lower leg) can contribute to supination, Dr. Pidich says.

“Certain neurological conditions can also cause people to have a supinated foot,” adds Dr. William Spielfogel, a board-certified podiatrist and medical advisor to The Good Feet Store. “But if you have a supinated foot, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have a neurological condition. Those with a supinated foot are born that way; it’s part of their genetic makeup. There’s nothing else that could have caused or prevented it.”

A trip to the podiatrist will help you determine if you supinate, but to quickly check at home, try the wet foot test. Simply wet the soles of your feet, then step on concrete or a paper towel for 10 seconds and check out your footprint. If your feet don’t leave much of an impression near the midfoot, you have high arches and are therefore more likely to be prone to supination.

Wearing the best supination insoles will not only correct your alignment from the ground up, but can also help to prevent injuries associated with the foot type: People who supinate are at a higher risk for common foot concerns such as plantar fasciitis and metatarsalgia (pain and inflammation in the ball of your foot), as well as additional issues like shin splints and Achilles tendonitis.

The best supination insoles will offer arch support, shock absorption, and stability by way of features like a deep heel cup. With these points in mind, we rounded up the best supination insoles, according to our experts and product testing.

Editor’s choice

Superfeet All Purpose Support High Arch Insoles

$54.99 Buy Now at superfeet

Specially designed for high arches, these iconic Superfeet insoles feature a deep heel cup and a stabilizer cap to support your rearfoot with max cushioning. Their high-density foam assists with impact absorption, while the midfoot support works to stabilize those who supinate due to high arches. In short? These expert-recommended insoles cradle your feet from your heels to your toes, delivering optimal support for supinators.

Superfeet’s All Purpose Support High Arch Insoles are made with the brand’s Moisturewick technology to reduce odor during long days on your feet, and you can trim them to slide into narrow shoes if needed. These all-purpose supination insoles are made to last for up to 12 months or 500 miles, so you’ll get a lot of use out of them, too.

What testers say: “I was having some foot and ankle issues and my Dr recommended using the green Superfeet high arch inserts. That was 4 years ago, and I haven’t had a problem since I started using them. They seem to last forever, but I generally change them every 6 months in the shoes I wear most often. Great product.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $54.99

Naboso Activation Supination Insoles

$55 Buy Now at Amazon

Although these supination insoles are made for everyday use, Dr. Pidich recommends adding these to any corrective shoes for supination, such as the Brooks Dyad running shoes. These supination insoles have a unique stimulation system that activates the nerves on the bottom of your feet to help reduce foot fatigue, boost energy, and help to control movement. “A proprioceptive insole, like Naboso’s Activation insole, can help supinated feet maintain balance,” Dr. Pidich explains.

What testers say: “I have MS (multiple sclerosis) and take Pilates for balance and strength. My instructor recommended the Naboso insoles to stimulate the soles of my feet, as they have been numb for years. These insoles increased the feeling in my feet, which, in turn, has helped improve my gait and balance.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $55

Walk Hero Arch Support Insoles

On Sale 20% off

$20 Buy Now at amazon

Amazon’s top-selling supination insoles are these supportive Walk Hero orthotic inserts that have earned over 37,000 five-star reviews on the retailer’s site. Created with all the features podiatrists look to for a great insole for underpronators, these supination insoles help to correct your gait with a deep heel cup and durable, firm EVA foam cushioning that doesn’t collapse underfoot (they’re also some of the best insoles for work boots). These are great supination insoles for those who experience plantar fasciitis — many testers report that they relieve foot pain after just a few wears and don’t take much time to break in.

What testers say: “I walk, on average, 5+ miles per day on concrete and asphalt. I’ve got good walking shoes and had only minor pain while walking but have heel pain afterwards. I’d tried different insoles but after no improvement I begrudgingly paid for these inserts. Literally after one day of use my pain disappeared. I was astonished!”

Price upon publish date of this article: $20

Powerstep Pinnacle High Arch-Supporting Supination Insoles

On Sale 26% off

$35 Buy Now at Amazon

The firm but flexible support in these Powerstep insoles provides the perfect mix of motion control and comfort for people who supinate. These top supination insoles not only help stabilize your feet by cradling your arches and heels, but they also helps distribute pressure with dual layers of EVA foam cushioning, so the balls of your feet and heels aren’t taking a toll. They’re some of the best-selling supination insoles available on Amazon with over 2,500 five-star reviews.

What testers say: “I walk for exercise and when I travel. My feet supinate and I can’t walk well without good shoes and insoles. I was previously using Powerstep Pinnacle Plus Met insoles for years and needed replacements. I discovered these Powerstep High Arch insoles and tried them out. They are wonderful. From the start, insoles support my arch and they are so comfortable. I purchased two pairs.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $41

Footscientific Type 3 Supination and High Arch Orthotic Insoles

$74  Buy Now at Amazon

Made for people with high arches, these Footscientific insoles are made of a flexible cork amalgam, which provides cushioning in your heels and the balls of your feet. They also help take the pressure off the outer part of your feet and reduce your risk of common high-arch feet issues, like pain in the outer sides of your feet and heels and plantar fasciitis. Many testers note that the insoles are so effective, that the prevent excess wear on the outer edge of shoes (something many supinators are familiar with). Note that each pack comes with two pairs, making these some of the best affordable supination insoles.

What testers say: “This is the first insert I’ve found that correctly supports the outside edge of my foot. Any casual shoes I buy, my foot feels like it is tipping sharply, with the inside getting way too much lift and the outside too little, tilting my foot to the point it feels like I’m sliding off the insole to the outboard side. Just like the illustration depicts. It has a little too much arch, causing me some irritation when I walk, I’m waiting to see whether my foot adjusts or if I need to do something to flatten the arch a bit.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $74

Prothotic Ultra Arch Supination Insoles

$44 Buy Now at Amazon

Prothotic’s Ultra Arch insoles provide ample cushioning and shock absorption, while also offering arch and metatarsal support to help relieve pain. These supination insoles are particularly great for those who deal with plantar fasciitis, as the extra heel cushioning prevents excess strain on the rearfoot. These supination insoles also made of moisture-wicking and antimicrobial fabric to keep odor-causing bacteria at bay. What’s even better is that you can hand wash and air dry them to extend their longevity.

What testers say: “I’ve struggled with unstable ankles and have very high arches. This product is better than any custom-made orthotic a physician has ever made for me. I replace mine every six months, and it is well worth it to have happy feet and ankles.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $44

TreadLab Ramble Supination Insoles

$60 Buy Now at TreadLabs

Because most people with high-arched feet supinate, Dr. Pidich likes these Treadlab supination insoles for their molded arch support and energy return. Designed with a five millimeter-thick top cover, these supination orthotics work well with a variety of shoes, including hiking boots, running shoes and even everyday office shoes. They also come in four different arch heights: low, medium, high and extra high, so you can find the right fit for your feet. Treadlab offers a 90-day trial period for insoles plus free returns and replacements if your insoles break or lose their shape, too.

What testers say: “I am so happy I found these insoles. They help tremendously with my supinating ankles. I didn’t realize it, but I have had supinating ankles and it has caused a lot of pain in my feet over the years. My feet have slowly been feeling better and I don’t roll my ankles nearly as often as I used to. I wish I had known about these years ago. I highly recommend these insoles.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $60

Good Feet Arch Supports

Buy Now at GoodFeet

Sometimes, investing in custom supination insoles is the way to go. Dr. Spielfogel likes Good Feet arch supports because they offer inner and outer longitudinal support that aids in reducing stress in your ankles, knees, and hips while controlling excess supination. They also allow you to practice better control and stability to prevent injuries, as well as absorb shock from ground forces.

These insoles support all four arches in your feet: inner (medial) longitudinal, outer (lateral) longitudinal, metatarsal and transverse arches. “They support all four arches in the foot to help correct poor biomechanics and keep your feet in their ideal position, which relieves joint pressure, pain and discomfort,” Dr. Spielfogel says.

What to Look for in the Best Supination Insoles for Underpronation

Although supination insoles can’t correct your gait (FYI, there isn’t a way to correct supination), they can provide stability and support, which is exactly what people with high arches need, Dr. Spielfogel says. “Supination insoles help direct the foot into a more neutral position. They do this by shifting your body’s weight from the outside of your foot, in turn putting less strain on the peroneal muscles,” Dr. Pidich says.

Below are some standout features to look for when shopping for supination insoles:

• Shock absorption: Because people with supinated feet are prone to overuse injuries, such as shin splints and stress fractures, they need insoles that provide shock absorption while walking or running, Dr. Spielfogel says. You should look for insoles that help evenly distribute your weight to take pressure off the outer parts of your feet.
• Arch support: People with high arches tend to supinate, so it’s important they look for supination insoles with arch support. “Supination insoles should meet the arch height of your foot when standing. If the arch, or highest point of the shoe orthotic, doesn’t meet or touch your foot’s arch while you stand, it won’t be useful,” Dr. Pidich says.
• A deep heel cup: Supination causes your feet to roll to its outer edges, so looking for insoles with stability features, such as a deep heel cup, can help maintain alignment and limit side-to-side movement. According to a small August 2015 study in Prosthetics and Orthotics International, adding a central stabilizer element at the midfoot in orthotics can help reduce foot pain from excessive pronation and supination.

When choosing supination insoles, also consider the activity you’re doing. Most insoles are made of plastic, leather, foam, gel or a combination of any of these finishes, with some being better suited for certain activities. “For example, a plastic orthotic covered in gel or foam is better for running than a stiffer leather orthotic for an everyday dress shoe,” Dr. Pidich says.

How to Treat Supination

There isn’t a way to correct supination because it’s mainly genetic, according to our experts, but by wearing insoles with proper support, you can help keep your feet in their ideal position and relieve pain and discomfort while doing activities. If you’re prone to injury because of supination, consult your podiatrist or physical therapist for proper treatment.

“The only way to treat supination is to have the appropriate support,” Dr. Spielfogel says. “If someone is having issues such as ankle sprains, it could also be beneficial to try physical therapy to strengthen and increase range of motion.”

How We Selected the Best Supination Insoles

 For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis, and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.

In order to select the best supination insoles, one health writer interviewed two podiatrists to understand the key features to look for in orthotics that help provide the necessary comfort and support for supinators. Using their input, our writer and Footwear News editors canvassed the insole market to find top shoe inserts with essential features for supinators, like deep heel cups, arch support, and cushioning. We assessed insoles from top brands like Superfeet and Walk Hero, checking to make sure the key features and construction of the insoles align with expert advice. We also took into shopper reviews into consideration, combing through tester feedback to ensure that each of the supination insoles on our list is durable and appropriate for various types of footwear, from comfortable flats to running sneakers. Learn more about us here. 

Meet the Experts

Dr. William Spielfogel is a board-certified podiatrist who currently treats patients at Hamilton Foot and Ankle Associates in New York City. He is also the medical advisor to The Good Feet Store and a member of the American Podiatric Medical Association, the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons and the New York State Podiatric Medical Association. Additionally, he is the chief of podiatry in the department of orthopaedic surgery as well as the director of the podiatric medicine and surgery residency program at Northwell Health Lenox Hill Hospital in New York.

Dr. Casey Ann Pidich is a podiatrist who currently treats patients at Park Avenue Podiatric Care in New York City. She is a foot specialist with extensive training in forefoot surgery and diabetic limb salvage and serves as an attending surgeon at Fifth Avenue Surgery Center and Gramercy Surgery Center in Manhattan.

Meet the Authors

Tiffany Ayuda is an editor and writer based in New York City. She writes about fitness, nutrition, health, and general wellness. Most recently, she was a senior editor at Prevention.com, where she expanded their fitness, nutrition, and e-commerce coverage. She held previous editorial roles at Eat This, Not That, Daily Burn, Everyday Health, and South Beach Diet. Tiffany’s work has appeared in the Huffington Post, the Daily Beast, Women’s Health, Mind Body Green, PopSugar, Yahoo! Health, Health and NBC News Better. She is also a certified personal trainer through the American Council on Exercise. Ayuda wrote the original version of this article on the best supination insoles and interviewed podiatrists for the story.

Claire Sullivan is the Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor for WWD and Footwear News. She has over six years of experience as a writer and editor for national media outlets including Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle, and Byrdie. She keeps her finger on the pulse of all things related to beauty and wellness, regularly digging into foot-related topics like plantar fasciitis or at-home foot peels. Sullivan contributed to the July 2024 update of this article on top supination insoles with updated products for summer 2024, as well as additional advice on how to determine if you need supination insoles and what to look for in the best pairs.

Updated June 25, 2024: This article on the best insoles for running was updated with new product selections. We are currently testing additional top-rated and podiatrist approved insoles for various foot types and concerns to include in this expert-approved shopping guide.

Whether you train for marathons or log just few miles during the week, the best insoles for running are a well-worthy investment to protect your foot health. In fact, according to a 2023 randomized controlled trial published in the World Journal of Orthopedics, orthotic insoles significantly improve comfort for runners, which could lead to improved speed and even injury recovery rate. To select the best podiatrist-approved insoles for running, you’ll want to consider where you run, how far you run, and key considerations like your foot type and any existing foot concerns.

Due to the repetitive impact that occurs as you run, especially on hard terrain like asphalt and cement, runners face a higher risk of overuse foot conditions like stress fractures. “When runners have an existing flat foot or high arch malalignment, this creates further risk of pain and injury above the foot, including overuse issues at the ankle, knee, and even the lower back,” says podiatrist Nicholas Romansky, DPM, a board-certified diplomate of the American Board of Podiatric Surgery. Running insoles serve as an easy solution to combat these common foot problems.

“Insoles are the part of a running shoe that is below and in direct contact with the bottom of the foot when a shoe is worn,” adds Dr. Romansky. Frequently called footbeds, these are often removable and can be replaced with over-the-counter (OTC) or custom insoles to provide structural support or cushion. Many of the best insoles not only help improve the fit of running sneakers but even help reduce foot fatigue, plantar fasciitis pain, and strain on the Achilles tendon.

“I recommend getting shoe inserts if your shoes bend easily in the middle, are uncomfortable, or lack proper arch support,” explains Dr. Miguel Cunha, DPM, a podiatric surgery specialist and founder of Gotham Footcare in Manhattan. “The general purpose of shoe inserts is to provide more cushioning, comfort, and support than what is offered by a shoe alone, and can help improve your performance when running and provide a more pleasant experience.”

So how do these slip-ins work? “Depending upon the specific materials and design shape, insoles can help promote improved structural alignment to flat feet or those with high arches to alleviate pain and decrease the risk of overuse injury,” says Kirk McCullough, MD, a sports medicine doctor who specializes in foot and ankle surgery. 

The best types of running insoles feature gel or foam compounds and a deep heel cup to promote proper foot alignment. Since it can be hard to find the right pair, we’ve researched the best running insoles on the market and asked podiatrists for the running insoles they recommend to their patients. Below, find the best insoles to buy for smoother and safer runs.

Best Overall Insoles for Running

Superfeet Run Support Low Arch Insoles

Best for: Long and short runs; slim-fitting sneakers; low arches
Size range: 5.5 to 15 men’s; 4.5 to 15 women’s; 2.5 to 4 youth
Materials: Carbon fiber and polymer
Special features: EVOLyte® carbon fiber blended cap, thin lightweight foam

$59.99 Buy Now at superfeet

Dr. Cunha recommends these Superfeet running insoles because they provide lots of support without feeling invasive. They are meant to reduce the impact on your joints and muscles with each heel strike. Firm underfoot cushioning make these insoles a solid pair for many different types of runners. What’s more, these Superfeet insoles are equipped with an odor-resistant top coat that helps keep your shoes stench-free, and these will last you up to 12 months or 500 miles, whichever comes first. They’re not as bulky or thick as other insoles, which makes them a great fit for slim running shoes and cleats, but they can also easily slip into shoes for wide feet with a roomy toebox.

Much like “super shoes” or the best carbon-plate running shoes, these insoles maximize on energy efficiency. “These insoles are designed with a carbon fiber heel cap to provide stability and support with a deep cradling heel cup to maximize shock absorption,” says Dr. Cunha. They’re also especially beneficial for those with low arches, thanks to a specially designed orthotic footbed that also reduces risky impact on the knees and back.

What testers say: “I’ve tried three other Superfeet insoles and I must say that this is the best one yet. I have a medium arch and swapped the Run Support High Arch for the Run Support Low Arch in my Brooks running shoes. I liked the Run Support High Arch but they were slightly too thick with the cushioning in the shoe. But when I switched, the improvement was instantly noticeable. These insoles have a very low profile without compromising the support. Highly recommend if you have high volume feet or low profile shoes or cleats!”

Price upon publish date of this article: $59.99

Dr. Scholl’s Run Active Insoles

Best for: Long and short runs; sneakers with removable factory insoles
Size range: 8 to 14 men’s; 6 to 10 women’s
Special features: Polygiene StayFresh technology

On Sale 29% off

$13.52 Buy Now AT Amazon

$13.03 Buy Men’s At Walmart

Dr. Scholl’s is a brand recommended by Dr. Cunha, and these Run Active insoles have a three-layer design that helps reduce muscle fatigue, provide cushioning, and increase energy rebound with every step. The ball of the foot’s cushioning and midsole’s arch support helps distribute pressure as you toe-off, while the deep heel cup absorbs impact through your run. All of this added support can help lower your risk for running-related injuries, such as shin splints and plantar fasciitis. The arch support and cushioning also make these insoles great for long-distance running shoes as well as those with flat feet. They feature odor-neutralizing technology and come in one size, so you’ll have to trim them to fit your running sneakers. While they’re specifically made for running, you can also use these in hiking boots and dress shoes for added support in everyday wear.

What testers say: “I bought seven different brands of insoles on Amazon. Many of them over $50. This is the cheapest one I purchased, and only because it had such high reviews. I don’t know how this is possible, but this one is the best. I have high arches. Many of the other insoles were OK, but they were too thick, and they made it so that my foot didn’t fit properly in my shoe. However, I tried them in a number of different shoes, including boots. I tested them all for miles of walking. I walk five or more miles a day.This one is the best one I’ve tried so far. I’m going to buy them for all my shoes.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $11.99

Birkenstock Birkosport Arch Support Insoles

Best for: Long and short runs; sneakers with removable factory insoles
Size range: 6 to 14.4 men’s; 4 to 12.5 women’s
Materials: Cork and foam
Special features: BirkoZell foam wicks moisture, cork and EVA cushioning, Moleskin anti-slip bottom coating

$69.95 Buy Now At ZAppos

$69.95 Buy Now at the Insole store

Dr. Romansky likes these Birkenstock Active insoles for runners with plantar fasciitis because their features help improve your gait. “It has a decent heel cup and a good medial contour, medial phalange, and a lateral clip,” he explains. “This provides moderate stability and decent correction.” The two-layer arch support consists of a blue foam that molds to the shape of your foot and a cork heel cup that aligns your feet and adds extra cushion with each impact. Their anatomically shaped footbed features a flexible yet shock-absorbing forefoot that provides cushion for every type of run. If you’re a fan of Birkenstock shoes‘ cork footbed, you’ll love these active insoles.

What testers say: “In my honest opinion, this is the best insole you can buy. If you are looking for a memory foam cushy insole, this isn’t your ticket. But, if you are looking for a wicked supportive anatomically correct insole with excellent arch, heel, and toe support this is it! I have very painful plantar fasciitis in both feet, and after just two weeks in these puppies the pain in one foot is almost nonexistent, and the other lessened substantially and getting better every day. I am ordering a pair for all my shoes. Well worth the money. Probably the best off the shelf insoles you can get without shelling out for custom.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $69.95

Protalus T-100 Elite Insoles

Best for: Long and short runs; shoes with removable factory insoles
Size range: 5.5 to 15 men’s; 5 to 12.5 women’s; 3 to 4 youth
Materials: Polyurethane, nylon, anti-microbial lining
Special features: Joint support

$64.95 Buy Now At Amazon

The T-100 Elite is one of the best insoles for running because it encourages the subtalar joint (which sits between the foot and ankle) into a neutral alignment, says Dr. Romansky, who represents the Protalus brand.

“The aligned joint is then able to handle proper pressure distribution from heel strike through the gait, adding more power behind your next step and reducing excess muscle fatigue,” he says. That’s what makes these insoles uniquely suited to both short-distance and long-distance running — they work to provide ankle support and help your body reach optimal alignment for increased performance, pressure distribution, energy transfer, and decreased fatigue. The Protalus T-100 Elite insoles work best in full-volume neutral running shoe models such as Asics running shoes, Hoka running shoes, New Balance running shoes, and most Nike running shoes, and they are durable, lasting up to a year for high-impact activities. To fit slimmer shoes, Protalus also offers other narrow models such as the T-75, that achieve the same result. 

What testers say: “I ordered these Protalus T-100 inserts for my wife who needs extra subtalar joint support. According to her, these inserts are exactly as promised in the listing. She is using them exclusively in gym shoes. After several weeks of regular use, they have held up well (no unusual wear patterns, etc.). The size she ordered is accurate and fits both her sneakers and foot correctly. The inserts remain in place and do not slip or otherwise move around inside the sneaker. The patented design and materials are both supportive and comfortable for her. The only negative is the retail price is quite high. But otherwise, she certainly recommends the Protalus T-100.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $64.95

Best Running INsoles for high Arches

Superfeet Run Support High Arch Insoles

Best for: High arches
Size range: 5.5 to 15 men’s; 4.5 to 15 women’s; 2.5 to 4 youth
Special features: EVOLyte® carbon fiber cap, two layers of AeroSpring Rebound foam 

$54.99 Buy Now at superfeet

“If you have high arches, you will benefit from insoles that provide cushioning and support,” Dr. Cunha says. These best-selling running insoles from Superfeet are shaped to cradle high arches with shock-absorbing cushioning, which is powered by responsive carbon fiber and polymer blends. Underfoot, two layers of cushioning bounces back with every impact, creating a buoyant ride that not only minimizes fatigue, but also aids in stability as you run, and soothes stress on key zones in the ankles, knees, and back. Plus, a layer of Superfeet’s Moisturewick technology helps to reduce natural odor and expand the overall lifespan of your purchase.

What testers say: “I have been purchasing these inserts for about five years. They make a huge difference in comfort level of being on my feet for 12 hour shifts. I have very high arches which makes it difficult to find good fitting shoes that are comfortable. With the help of these, I can easily get through a work day and walk a few miles afterward without aching feet. I was so happy to have discovered them. Great inserts for an affordable price.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $54.99

Powerstep Pinnacle Breeze Insoles

Best for: Long and short runs; sneakers with removable factory insoles
Size range: 3 to 15 men’s; 5 to 12 women’s
Materials: Polypropylene, EVA foam, polyester mesh
Special features: Neutral arch support, breathable footbed

On Sale 24% off

$39.19 Buy Now AT Amazon

These Powerstep insoles come recommended by Dr. Cunha because they’re complete with semi-rigid arch support and a deep heel cup for optimal stability as you run. Both of these factors make it a great pick for people with plantar fasciitis, overpronation, and other common foot concerns. “These insoles are designed with a firm shell and deep heel cradle for increased support and motion control with dual-layered cushioning for enhanced comfort,” Dr. Cunha says. They also feature a breathable mesh layer that promotes airflow to keep your feet sweat-free during long runs. Plus, these insoles aren’t limited to use with stability running shoes — they’re designed to fit in work boots, loafers, and more everyday shoes. They don’t require trimming and you can move them from shoe to shoe easily, making them a convenient, cost-effective choice.

What testers say: “I would give this insert 10 stars if I could. I had plantar fasciitis surgery that removed 50% of my plantar fascia tendon and a very large bone spur. While that particular pain is gone, I have struggled with finding the right insert to provide my foot the correct amount of support, cushion, and pain relief. Prior to this using this insert, I could only manage to be on my feet for half the day before I started needing breaks and complete pain by the end of the day. When I walk somewhere with family, they are constantly walking ahead and then having to stop and wait for me to catch up. This insert has literally given me my life back. The minute I put it in my shoe and took a few steps I felt immediate pain relief. I just spent the entire day on my feet and by the end of the night, my foot was still pain-free! I can’t express enough how amazing my foot feels with these inserts. Quite possibly the best purchase I have ever made in my life.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $39.19

Vionic Active Insole

Best for: Long and short runs; sneakers with removable factory insoles
Size range: S to XXL (5.5 to 15) men’s; XS to L (4.5 to 12) women’s
Materials: EVA with hardened plastic
Special features: Motion control technology

$44.95 Buy Men’s At Amazon

$44.95 Buy Men’s At ZAppos

$44.95 Buy Women’s AT Vionic

These Vionic insoles are some of the best running insoles for overpronation. They “feature a biomechanical motion control technology to stabilize, support, and realign feet back to anatomically aligned position,” Dr. Cunha says. This, along with built-in arch support, helps align pronating feet into a more neutral position, while the additional cushioned shock dot in the heel provides shock absorption and energy rebound with heel strike, Dr. Cunha tells us.

These insoles are made with lightweight molded EVA, which is a foam commonly used in cushioned running shoes, plus a reinforced hardened plastic layer for even more stability. They’re also accepted by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), which means podiatrists recommend them for promoting good foot health. They might require trimming the forefoot to fit your shoes, and they’re compatible with virtually any sneaker or shoe that can fit an insole.

What testers say: “I’ve been running half marathons for over 10 years and recently started having bad plantar fasciitis pain in my right foot. Started putting these insoles in my running shoes and I’m feeling like my old self again. Just to warn folks, the insoles made my knees and legs hurt the first week or so of wearing them, but the insoles are fabulous now after the initial break-in period.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $44.95

Currex Runpro Insoles

Best for: Long and short runs; sneakers with removable factory insoles
Size range: 3 to 14.5 men’s; 4.5 to 16 women’s
Special features: 3D dynamic arch technology, breathable Poron premium foam 

On Sale 9% off

$50 Buy Now AT Amazon

A semi-rigid arch and deep heel cup help stabilize the foot and relieve pain associated with injuries common among runners. “These insoles help reduce, posterior tibial, muscle fatigue, and ease plantar fasciitis pain through motion control for optimal foot guidance,” Dr. Cunha says. “They have poron cushioning for maximal shock absorption with every heel strike,” he says. Currex Runpro Insoles come in three different profiles — low, medium, and high — for a customized fit in your shoes. Simply take a quick evaluation on the website to find your shoe profile based on your arch type and knee alignment. To top it all off, the insoles are moisture-wicking and odor-absorbing. All of these features make the Currex Runpro insoles outstanding for longer runs, trail running, triathlons, and beyond. 

What testers say: “Get these. There are much cheaper insole available. But these are durable and comfortable and take care of real problems I was having with instep pain. They helped correct problems I was having with landing on my feet squarely. They are that comfortable. I am 65 and training for my first half-marathon. I need to know that the shoes will not give me a problem. These insoles do just that. I had been plagued with shoes problems for years until a podiatrist recommended these. Put your money in these insoles — they are worth it.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $50

Fulton Active Insoles

Best for: Long and short runs; sneakers with removable factory insoles
Size range: 7.5 to 15 men’s; 4.5 to 12 women’s
Materials: Cork
Special features: Mold to your feat after 10 hours of wear, no trimming required

$52 Buy Men’s AT Amazon

$52 Buy Women’s At Amazon

These cork running insoles from Fulton are great for most runners because of their deep heel cup, arch support, and cushioning foam. They’re made with cork, which provides durability and has moisture-wicking properties, Dr. Cunha says. “Cork also molds to the natural contour of your feet to provide anatomical support with excellent shock absorption.” The foam layer cushioning coupled with cork makes these a reliable orthotic for longer runs when your feet need extra impact absorption. These come in specific shoe sizes, so you can just pop them into your cushioned running sneakers or winter running shoes for superior comfort. The cherry on top: These Fulton insoles are made of sustainable materials and are carbon-negative.

What testers say: “I ordered these inserts to correct some overpronation in my left foot. I’ve rolled over many pairs of expensive shoes because I couldn’t wear an arch support because the pressure it creates on the arch of my foot irritates my neuropathy resulting in weeks, sometimes months of painful burning and parasthesias. Needless to say I was skeptical and ready to send them back before I even tried them. Well, much to my surprise, after trying them in a new pair of shoes I felt the pressure, but no neuropathic pain. I am stunned that my feet and legs are not burning like I was assuming they would. My pronation is corrected and my gait feel considerably better than it did before using Fulton inserts. I can’t say enough good things about these inserts which have opened up outdoor activities to me that I just assumed were gone. Thank you Fulton!!”

Price upon publish date of this article: $52

What to Consider When Shopping for Insoles for Running

• Foot type and concerns: To determine your foot type, look at the soles of a pair worn-in shoes, says Dr. Cunha. The wear patterns illustrate where you are accumulating pressure when you walk. Certain foot types are more prone to foot discomfort and foot-related injuries. “For instance, people with plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, shin splints, or inner knee pain tend to have flat feet and be pronators, which means your feet roll inward,” he says. People with flat feet who overpronate should look for arch support in a running insole. On the other hand (ahem, foot), “people who commonly sprain their ankles or have outer knee pain tend to be supinators because they have higher arches and roll outward,” Dr. Cunha says. Look to supination insoles that prioritize cushioning for extra shock absorption.
• Where you run: If you’re running on hard surfaces such as pavement, asphalt, or a treadmill, choose a running insole with extra shock absorption and springy cushioning. Running on grass is lower-impact and puts less stress on your feet, so if that’s your terrain of choice, you can get away with an insole with less cushion.
• Running distance: If you’re training for a marathon or tend to log lots of miles, you’ll need thicker and more padded insoles to withstand high impact, Dr. Cunha says. Most insoles will last you about 500 miles. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as tearing and cracks. If your insoles are compressed, they likely won’t offer the same cushion and support, so you’ll want to swap them out for more durable options after regular use. 
• Your preferred running shoes: Most running shoes, if not all shoes, will feel more comfortable if you exercise or stand all day with insoles, as they provide additional cushioning, support, and shock absorption, according to Dr. Cunha. “Insoles help offload weight and pressure in most shoes and help address pre-existing foot conditions, such as heel spurs and heel pain, and general discomfort.” However, not all running shoes are roomy enough for inserts. Sneakers that are tight-fitting or low-profile and may not accommodate bulkier insoles (like work boot insoles) comfortably, and some shoes have design features that make inserting insoles difficult. If you love your cushioned running shoes, opt for thinner insoles, as thick slip-ins can constrict your foot mobility.

The Best Running Insoles for Different Foot Types and Foot Conditions 

• Best running insoles for plantar fasciitis: Those with plantar fasciitis often overpronate, which means that their arch collapses and their feet roll inward when they walk. If you’re in this camp, Dr. Cunha recommends flexible insoles that are designed with an anatomical arch. Arch support that’s too rigid or high will cause more pain and pressure. Look for insoles with a deep heel cup, which will keep your feet aligned and minimize pronation.
• Best running insoles for flat feet: Similar to plantar fasciitis, people with flat feet experience arch collapse from overpronating, so insoles with an anatomical arch are best. “A supportive arch will help provide reinforcement and keep the arches of the foot from collapsing,” Dr. Cunha says.
• Best arch support insoles for running: High arches can cause excess amounts of weight to be placed on the ball and heel of the foot, resulting in foot pain while walking, running, or simply standing. Arch support insoles help relieve some of the pressure on the ball of your foot and helps to evenly distribute body weight across the foot.
• Best running insoles for overpronation: If your arches collapse and your feet roll inwards, or overpronate, look for insoles with ample arch support. People who overpronate are more likely to have flat feet or develop plantar fasciitis.

How to Fit Insoles in Running Shoes

Many insoles come in different shoe sizes, which are generally true to size. For easy insertion, simply select an insole that matches the specific size of your running or walking shoe. Pay attention to whether the running shoe brand runs true to size, too. If it’s not a perfect fit, you may need to trim the insole for a secure placement.

Universally sized insoles almost always require trimming, as your shoe will likely be smaller than the insole. A helpful trick to fit an insole into any shoe is to remove the original insole that came in the shoe, then use it as a template to cut your new running shoe insole to size. Make sure to always check the manufacturer’s instructions on how to trim insoles appropriately.

How Often to Replace Running Insoles

Similar to car tires, depending on the material and the frequency and intensity of use, insoles must be replaced, too. While some insoles require replacement every six to nine months, others can last even longer depending on the nature of their use, says Dr. McCullough. Pay attention to warning signs that it’s time for a swap, such as discoloration or logo fading, rips or cracks, a decrease in density that no longer resembles the original shape, and unpleasant odor due to regular sweat.

“An important insole type or shoe consideration that we share with our patients is the concept of ‘FITSS,’ which stands for Frequency, Intensity, Time, Surface, and Shoes,” Dr. Cunha explains. “Any negative alteration, imbalance, or stress in two or more of these parameters increases the risk of overuse and injury.” Regularly replacing running insoles is just as crucial as buying them to begin with. Once they no longer serve the utmost support and protect your foot from further problems, it’s time to get a new set.

How We Chose the Best Insoles for Running

For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis, and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items. 

In order to curate our top list of the best running insoles for different activity levels and foot concerns, Footwear News Shop editors spoke to three top podiatrists and medical doctors. We took into consideration different foot types, common foot conditions, and running habits, as well as added features like sweat-wicking and odor reducing fabrications. We also asked our experts to share superlative insoles they recommend to their runner patients on a regular basis. Additionally, we researched countless styles from popular foot health brands, including Superfeet, Protalus, Dr. Scholl’s, Vionic, Superfeet, and more, and sifted through hundreds of customer reviews to compare and narrow down our selections. Learn more about us here.

Meet the Experts

Nicholas Romansky, DPM, is a board-certified diplomate of the American Board of Podiatric Surgery and  a health consultant for the Major League Baseball Umpires Association. He also works as a team podiatrist for the U.S. Men’s and Women’s National and World Cup Soccer Teams and as a design consultant for a few shoe gear companies, including Protalus. 

Miguel Cunha, DPM, is a Podiatric Surgery Specialist and founder of Gotham Footcare in Manhattan. Cunha has years of experience as a foot and ankle surgeon, treating issues ranging from minor ailments to full-on reconstructive procedures.

Kirk McCullough, MD, is a sports medicine doctor who specializes in foot and ankle surgery. He mostly works with patients with sports-related and overuse or degenerative conditions of the foot and ankle. 

Meet the Authors

April Benshosan is a health journalist and editor who’s interviewed countless doctors and other medical professionals and tested many brands of running shoes throughout her career. She has congenital flat feet and knows the struggle of finding a quality pair of running insoles that offer good arch support without feeling invasive. She’s super dedicated to arming people with the information they need to make informed decisions about their health, and her work has been published in both print and digital outlets, including Women’s Health, SHAPE, VeryWell Fit, Health.com, LIVESTRONG.com, and more.

Olivia Cigliano is a Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD where she writes and edits shopping content on the best-rated footwear, TikTok style trends, and more. Olivia received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Emerson College, and her byline can be found in publications including Elite Daily and CR Fashion Book. She updated this guide to the best insoles for running in June 2024 with new product recommendations and additional care tips.

Top <span><span>Shoes for Hammer Toes</span></span> of 2024

Best Slippers for Hammer toes

Vionic Gustavo Slippers

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Buy women’s at amazon $89.95

Birkenstock Arizona Sandals

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Buy Now at amazon $94.86

Sponsored

Salomon X Ultra Pioneer Hiking Boots

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Buy women’s at Zappos $150

Best Workout Shoes for Hammer toes

Kuru Atom Sneakers

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Buy Now at Kuru footwear $160.00

Best Men’s Dress Shoes for Hammertoes

OrthoFeet Lincoln Center Men’s Dress Shoes

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Buy Now at amazon $99.95

Allbirds Wool Runners

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Buy men’s at allbirds $98.00

Drew Comfy Women’s Clogs

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Buy Now at amazon $159.95

Vivaia Margot 2.0 Flats for Women

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Buy Now at Vivaia $79.00

Orthofeet Venice Sandals

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Buy Women’s at Amazon $104.95

Best Women’s Dress Shoes for Hammer toes

Sole Bliss Luna Ballet Flats

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Buy Now at sole Bliss $229.00

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Hammer toes are a deformity of the middle joint of the toe that can cause pain, stiffness, restricted motion, and even blisters and calluses. If you’re afflicted with this condition, walking and wearing certain types of shoes can become very difficult, so finding the best shoes for hammer toes is a must. Saylee Tulpule, DPM, a podiatrist and physician spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association, says proper shoes can prevent how quickly hammer toes form and how painful they become.

Hammer toes often occur because the muscles and tendons around the toe get tight and shorten, pulling the joint into a bent position. If the toe stays in a bent position for too long, the tendons can become rigid and the toe no longer moves. Who’s most likely to deal with this common foot condition? People with flat feet, as well as those who regularly wear shoes that are too tight or too small are at risk. Footwear is an important way to stay comfortable with this foot condition and prevent foot pain from worsening, as untreated hammer toes can lead to muscular imbalances and other foot conditions like plantar fasciitis or bunions.

Supportive shoes that have a wide toe box and soft, flexible upper material can reduce rubbing on the toes and lighten the pressure on the joint. The right pair of shoes can also help keep hammer toes from worsening. Tight, unsupportive shoes like high heels are a no-no if you’re struggling with the pain and aggravation of hammer toes. 

There’s a wide range of shoe styles suitable for hammer toes, from slippers to hiking boots for men and women, so you can find exactly what you need for every occasion. Whether you need comfortable dress shoes or high-performance workout shoes, there are supportive options that can make hammer toes more comfortable. Comfortable sandals are a particularly good choice if you live in a warmer climate, since open shoes can prevent rubbing on a bent joint.

When shopping for the best shoes for hammer toes, first consider your shoe needs. Do you need something stylish to wear to work? Do you need comfortable travel shoes to wear on vacation? Once you know what you need, look for shoes with supportive insoles, and shoes that aren’t pointy or tight around the toes. Lower heels will keep pressure off the toe joints. With expert input, we researched shoes for a variety of situations and a range of styles.

Best Slippers for Hammer toes

Vionic Gustavo Slippers

Size Range: 5-11 women’s; 7-14 men’s
Materials: Suede, foam, rubber
Special Features: Soft furry lining, full orthotic footbed
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

$89.95 Buy women’s at amazon

$109.95 Buy men’s at amazon

The soft, furry lining of these Vionic orthotic slippers doesn’t rub on the tops of hammer toes and makes for a comfortable feel with or without socks. They have a thick rubber sole that lets you wear them to the mailbox or even while running errands. The footbed is podiatrist-designed and is contoured to provide support across the entire bottom of the foot. With half sizes available, these women’s and men’s slippers are roomy enough to keep hammer toes from feeling pinched or crushed. And the Vionic brand is APMA accepted to boot.

What testers say: “My doctor recommended that I not go barefoot because of my foot pain. I have Vionic shoes, sneakers and sandals so I was so happy to see Vionic had slippers too. These slippers are very well made. I love my slippers!!”

Price upon publish date of this article: $89.95

Birkenstock Arizona Sandals

Size Range: 4-12.5 women’s; 6-17.5 men’s
Materials: Leather, cork, foam
Special Features: Adjustable straps, large open toe area
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars 
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars 

On Sale 27% off

$94.86 Buy Now at amazon

$130 Buy Now at zappos

$145 Buy Now at Nordstrom

These iconic Birkenstock sandals are super comfortable and easy on sore feet. The footbed features foam and cork that’s contoured and forms to your foot. The deep heel cup supports proper positioning of your natural heel padding. For plenty of wiggle room for hammer toes, there’s a large toe area that extends beyond the straps — and the straps are adjustable for a perfect fit over tender toes.

What testers say: “Love these! After years of bunion and hammer toe issues, my feet are comfortable in Birkenstocks. There is some break-in time due to the thick leather upper, but it’s totally worth it. I wish I started wearing them 10 years ago.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $159.95

Sponsored

Salomon X Ultra Pioneer Hiking Boots

Size Range: 5-11 women’s; 7-14 men’s
Materials: Leather, rubber
Special Features: Deep toe box, waterproof
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars 

$150 Buy women’s at Zappos

$150 Buy men’s at Zappos

Quality hiking boots are important to the enjoyment of the outdoors. The Salomon X Ultra Pioneer boots are low- to mid-rise and fully waterproof shoes. They’re designed with a secure fit that holds your foot in place on rough, downhill terrain. This provides plenty of stability and motion control, no matter where you’re hiking. Most importantly, these boots have a deep toe box so there’s plenty of room to keep hammer toes comfortable and chafe-free. 

What testers say: “I purchased these a month before a 3-day backpacking trip. I was the only person without sore feet or blisters. They seem wider in the toe area then most boots but not in the way that makes them bulky.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $101.82

Best Workout Shoes for Hammer toes

Kuru Atom Sneakers

Size Range: 5-12 women’s; 6.5-14 men’s
Materials: Mesh, rubber
Special Features: Heel-hugging padded cushion

$160.00 Buy Now at Kuru footwear

If you’re physically active, you need shoes that provide support and comfort when you have foot ailments like hammer toes or plantar fasciitis. Kuru’s Atom cross-training shoes are made of breathable mesh to keep your feet cool during workouts and to prevent painful rubbing on your hammer toes while you’re working on your next PR. These shoes also have plenty of arch support and cushioning, which is important for any type of workout. The forefoot has a wide base and roomy toe box for stability and plenty of wiggle room to avoid irritating your hammer toes. A unique feature of this shoe is that the cushy heel pad flexes to cup your heel with each step, providing extra shock absorption during high impact workouts. 

What testers say: “The Atom is my favorite, all I buy is Kuru shoes, no pain when I exercise or walk. Life changer! I actually joined a gym and love to go now!”

Price upon publish date of this article: $160.00

Best Men’s Dress Shoes for Hammertoes

OrthoFeet Lincoln Center Men’s Dress Shoes

Size Range: 7-14
Materials: Leather, foam, rubber
Special Features: Podiatrist-designed insole, adjustable strap
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Orthofeet Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5

$99.95 Buy Now at amazon

$99.95 Buy Now at OrthoFeet

The OrthoFeet brand is known for their pain-relieving orthopedic shoes and these dress shoes are no exception. The wide toe box and soft leather upper ease pressure on hammer toes, and they include an adjustable, stylish strap rather than laces, making it easier to adjust the fit across the top of your foot. You get plenty of arch and posture support with orthotic insoles that make the shoes comfortable enough for those long days in the office. The outsole has a mild rocker design that helps fight leg fatigue by providing a little boost with every step. These shoes are offered in three width options, also qualifying them as some of the best shoes for wide feet.

What testers say: “The comfort is superb. Feels great even on my first use. Equally important is that these shoes do not compromise on style. Could easily double up as elegant men’s shoes for evening wear and dining.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $99.95

Allbirds Wool Runners

Size Range: 5-11 women’s; 8-14 men’s
Materials: Wool, foam
Special Features: Machine-washable design

$98.00 Buy men’s at allbirds

$98.00 Buy women’s at allbirds

Machine-washable shoes that are supportive and good for the environment? Yes, please! These everyday shoes from Allbirds come in men’s and women’s sizes and 12 different color combinations. The wool these shoes are made with is super soft on tender feet and toes, as well as naturally thermoregulating so your feet stay just the right temperature. The midsole is made with carbon-negative EVA foam that delivers stability and comfortable cushioning. They’re stretchy, soft, and have a wide toe box for plenty of room.

What testers say: “My dad has had a bunion and hammer toe for many years. He’s found the most comfort now with Allbirds shoes.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $98.00

Drew Comfy Women’s Clogs

Size Range: 5-13 Women’s
Materials: Sweater knit, faux fur, rubber
Special Features: Available in four widths, removable insole, antimicrobial lining
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

$159.95 Buy Now at amazon

When the temperature drops into sweater weather range, a soft, cozy pair of shoes are just what you need. These Comfy clogs from Drew have a stretchy upper and a deep rounded toe box to avoid irritating hammer toes or bunions. And they’re available in four widths so it’s easy to find the perfect fit, even if you’re them with wearing thick hiking socks. They feature a Drilex, antimicrobial lining, keeping your feet dry and irritation-free. A contoured gel insole provides arch support, cushioning, and shock absorption, however it’s removable if you prefer to swap in supination insoles or plantar fasciitis insoles.

What testers say: “These clogs are SO comfortable….they have removable inner soles so that my orthotics fit right in; the heel base is deep enough so that the orthotics don’t slip out (has been a problem with other clogs), they are lined with furry warmth, and the soft body material is stretchy! I have barely taken them off since they arrived! Terrific!!”

Price upon publish date of this article: $159.95

Vivaia Margot 2.0 Flats for Women

Size Range: 5-11 women’s
Materials: Knit, rubber
Special Features: Machine washable, four-way stretchy knit upper
Vivaia Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.2/5

On Sale 19% off

$79.00 Buy Now at Vivaia

A flexible, comfortable pair of flats with plenty of heel cushion and arch support, the Margot 2.0 is made of a knit fabric manufactured from recycled plastic bottles. These shoes have a square toe so there’s no pinching and plenty of space to spread your toes. They come in 43 different color combinations, and at a budget-friendly price, so you can add as many as you want to your outfit rotation. The upper is stretchy, making the shoes easy to pull on and off, and great for preventing pain on hammer toes or bunions. They’re also machine washable and easy to travel with.

What testers say: “These shoes are remarkably comfortable and particularly for feet that have bunions and hammer toes. I have both and have worn these shoes for 10 hours straight and never felt any discomfort. And they look stylish too. I would recommend them to anyone.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $79.00

Orthofeet Venice Sandals

Size Range: 5-12 Women’s; 7-14 Men’s 
Materials: Leather, EVA foam, Rubber
Special Features: Fully adjustable, two-way strap system
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

$104.95 Buy Women’s at Amazon

$104.95 Buy Men’s at Amazon

OrthoFeet shoes are a top choice among podiatrists for their comfort and support. These sandals have a cushioned, arch support insole with an additional arch booster accessory available if you have high arches and need even more support. The three straps are all adjustable to get the perfect fit, which is especially helpful for hammer toes because the strap across the forefoot can be adjusted to accommodate a bent toe. Foam padding on the straps minimizes rubbing, and the two-way strap system on the ankle allows you to adjust from either side, making it easier to get your foot in and out of the sandals.

What testers say: “I live in Florida and wear sandals daily. Orthofeet sandals reliably offer me foot comfort and support.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $104.95

Best Women’s Dress Shoes for Hammer toes

Sole Bliss Luna Ballet Flats

Size Range: 5-11
Materials: Leather, Rubber 
Special Features: Elasticized heel, Wide and deep toe box
Sole Bliss Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars

$229.00 Buy Now at sole Bliss

It can be difficult to find nice dress shoes when you have hammer toes or bunions. These ballet flats from Sole Bliss have a toe box that is deep as well as wide, providing plenty of space to relieve pressure on tender toes. The memory foam insole is anti-bacterial to fight odor so you can feel confident wearing these with bare feet. For added comfort, the back of the heel is elasticised, which also makes these shoes easy to slip on and off. The heel also has a rubber, shock-absorbing cap. While these dress shoes are on the expensive side, they come in 14 colors and patterns to suit all your wardrobe needs.

What testers say: “I have had loads of problems with my feet and finding comfortable shoes. These are great. They fit well and look good but I can also wear them for hours without my feet hurting!”

Price upon publish date of this article: $99.95

What Are Hammer Toes and How Are They Treated?

Hammer toes typically occur in the second, third, and fourth toe and are characterized by a distinct upward bend in the middle joint. Hammer toes can be caused by a number of different foot conditions such as injury or health conditions like diabetes or arthritis. Hammer toes can also be caused by continuously wearing shoes that are too tight, like high heels, or shoes that don’t fit properly. People who are older or who have flat feet are at a higher risk for hammer toes. Your risk also goes up if you have long toe bones, i.e., if your second toe is longer than your big toe.

People suffering from hammer toes can have pain, stiffness, and swelling in the toes. You may also feel pain in the ball of the foot due to muscle imbalances at the toe joint, notes Tulpule. There are two types of hammer toes, but which type you suffer from doesn’t necessarily change the type of shoe you should look for.

Flexible hammer toes are a condition in which you can still move the affected joint. It’s considered a milder form of the hammer toes. There are usually several treatment options you have for these types of hammer toes, including inserts or pads that reposition your toes, taping or splinting to straighten your toes, applying ice to relieve pain and swelling, and wearing roomier shoes. Tulpule recommends Silipos digital toe caps to prevent painful corns or hammer toe crest pads to help straighten the toe. Rigid hammer toes occur when the tendons in your toes have become stiff and immovable, and they press the joint out of alignment. The usual treatment option for this form of hammer toe is surgery.

What to Look For in the Best Shoes for Hammer Toes

Comfort and support in your shoes are always going to be of utmost importance when you have foot conditions that cause pain, stiffness, and swelling. No matter what type of shoe you need, whether sneakers or sandals or something in between, experts recommend you look for shoes with the following features.

• Roomy toe box: Shoes with a wide toe box area will relieve pain and pressure and allow the toes to fully splay. A deep toe box will minimize rubbing and irritation on the tops of hammer toes. An even better option would be sandals that have no toe box at all. Tulpule recommends a round or square toe box rather than a narrow or pointed toe.
• Arch support: Shoes with built-in arch support, or shoes that allow for inserts, keep your foot aligned and in the proper position. Giving your foot the support it needs minimizes pressure points, especially on hammer toes.
• Stretchy materials: Uppers made of soft, stretchy material won’t irritate hammer toes and other foot ailments like bunions, blisters, and calluses. Look for shoes with softer, stretchy fabrics like mesh or canvas shoes, or ones with soft linings.
• Low heel: Shoes with a lower heel elevation will keep pressure off your toes. If you’re sliding into heels for special occasions, prioritize shoes with stretchy upper materials, rounded or square toe boxes, and a non-constricting fit.

How We Chose the Best Shoes for Hammer Toes

 For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis, and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.                                                                                                                                      

To choose the best shoes for hammer toes for our list, we relied on expert input to understand the needs of those suffering with both flexible and rigid hammer toes. Our experts suggested features to look for, and brands they like and recommend. We researched products that fit a variety of categories such as sandals, hiking boots, and dress shoes and found styles for both men and women. We looked for shoes that provided style and structure, as well as comfort and room for toes to move. We also considered special features like adjustable straps and stretchy uppers that make it a little easier for those with pain or irritation. Learn more about us here.

Meet the Expert

Saylee Tulpule, DPM is a podiatrist practicing in Maryland and Washington, DC. She specializes in general podiatric medicine, sports medicine, biomechanics, and elective forefoot surgery. She is a physician spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association.

Meet the Author

Jen Zeltwanger, ACSM-EP, is a freelance writer and editor specializing in health and fitness topics and product reviews. As a fitness professional and someone who has worked with clients and family members suffering with hammer toes and other foot conditions, Zeltwanger knows how all types of shoes can affect your feet and knows what to look for when shopping for quality shoes for hammer toes.

Top Shoes for Bunions of 2023

Nike Revolution 6 Road Running Shoes

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Buy Men’s At Nike $56

Most comfortable shoes for bunions

New Balance 928v3 Shoes

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Buy Men’s At Zappos $155

Best shoes for bunion pain 

Vionic Women’s Relax Slippers

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Buy Now At Amazon $70

Naot Santa Cruz Sandals

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Buy Men’s At zappos $150

Best work shoes for bunions

Hush Puppies Women’s Cora Leather Loafers

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Buy Now At Amazon $80

Best walking shoes for bunions

Brooks Ghost 15 Sneakers

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Buy Men’s At Zappos $140

Xero The Dillon Sneakers

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Buy Men’s At Amazon $100

Kuru Women’s Coda Suvi Sandals

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Buy Now At Kuru $135

Best running shoes for bunions

AltraFWD Experience Sneakers

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Buy Men’s At REI $140

Best athletic shoes for bunions

Xero Prio Sneakers

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Buy Men’s At Amazon $95

Naot Women’s Utopia Cetona Boots

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Buy Now At Amazon $240

Best dress shoes for bunions

Arcopedico Women’s L15 Flats

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Buy Now At Amazon $90

Orthofeet Women’s Quincy Slip-On Loafers

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Buy Now At Amazon $100

Be Lenka Women’s Diva Ankle Boots

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Buy Now At Be lenka $179

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Despite how painful bunions can be, wearing proper footwear can help alleviate some of the discomfort — and potentially prevent the common foot problem from worsening over time. That means ditching high heels and constricting loafers and shopping for the best shoes for bunions. 

“A bunion is a dislocation of the big toe joint of your foot, specifically the first metatarsophalangeal joint,” says podiatrist Sondema Tarr, DPM. That’s the joint at the base of your big toe. “Essentially, the bone shifts, creating an angulation of the big toe joint and that noticeable ‘bump’ on the inside of the foot,” says podiatrist Alissa Kuizinas, DPM. Bunions can cause a range of symptoms including pain, stiffness, toe weakness, toe crowding, and potential issues like hammertoes and metatarsalgia (inflammation in the ball of the foot).

Bunions are one of the most common foot issues, affecting about a third of Americans, according to the Cleveland Clinic. And they’re more common in older adults and women, especially those who wear heels and narrow dress shoes. Indeed, the wrong footwear could worsen your bunions over time and can cause pain and irritation in the short term. That’s why it’s important to wear shoes that stabilize the foot into the ideal neutral position, where weight is evenly distributed across the foot. One of the biggest keys for people with bunions is to look for a wide shoe fit and a roomy toe box. “Avoid straight or narrow toe beds, which can result in painful friction,” says Dr. Glenn Davison, DPM, a Fellow in the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. 

To help you find the right shoes, we researched countless styles, including women’s dress shoes for bunions, lifestyle sneakers, running shoes, and shoes for wide feet from popular brands. We also asked experts for the top picks they recommend to their patients. Read on to find the pair that works for you.

Nike Revolution 6 Road Running Shoes

Size range: 5 to 12 women’s; 6 to 15 men’s
Materials: Knit material
Special features: Wide toe box; stretchy, breathable material; soft foam midsole
Nike Top Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars

On Sale 20% off

$56 Buy Men’s At Nike

$50 Buy Women’s At Nike

One of the most comfortable sneakers for women and men, the Nike Revolution 6 Running Shoe is lightweight and flexible. It has a soft foam midsole and a reinforced heel that provides added support and stability. What’s more, this sneaker is wide enough to feel comfortable and roomy enough to fit orthotic insoles. This Nike running shoe is made with a breathable and lightweight knit material that stretches to accommodate bunions and makes these great for workout shoes, too. Like other Nike shoes, it’s recommended to go up a half size as this style runs small. 

What testers say: “I walk or jog 60-70 km per week and these shoes never fail me! I have a wider foot and a bunion, and these stand up every day. I’m on my 6th pair (because I simply wear them out with the distance) and I will continue to purchase because I haven’t found a better style or brand than these for what I use them for.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $60

Most comfortable shoes for bunions

New Balance 928v3 Shoes

Size range: 5 to 13 women’s; 7 to 16 men’s
Materials: Leather
Special features: Made of soft leather; available in wide, extra wide, and extra-extra wide; cushioned footbed
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
New Balance Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

$155 Buy Men’s At Zappos

$155 Buy Women’s At Zappos

$155 Buy Men’s At New Balance

$155 Buy Women’s At New Balance

The New Balance 928v3 is designed for total foot support. The foam footbed and anatomic cushioning help distribute weight evenly and absorb impact, making these great for people with bunions, plantar fasciitis, or if your feet tend to swell. These are made of leather that’s both soft and stretchy, and this sneaker is also available in wide, extra wide, and extra-extra wide widths for those with severe bunions. Plus, the sturdy collar provides ankle stability. These New Balance shoes are perfect for wearing anytime you need shoes for standing all day.

What testers say: “This shoe fits my bunions and hammer toes. It is the only shoe I can wear. I wear it every day. It has a deep toe box and comes in extra wide 4E.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $155

Best shoes for bunion pain 

Vionic Women’s Relax Slippers

Size range: 5 to 12 women’s
Materials: Terrycloth
Special features: Adjustable closure; arch support; open-toe style
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
DSW Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars

$70 Buy Now At Amazon

$70 Buy Now At Zappos

$70 Buy Now At DSW

Lots of slippers are comfy, but the APMA-approved Vionic Relax Slides are also wide enough to accommodate bunions. They feature an adjustable closure for a customized fit, so you can widen them to wear with socks during colder months or tighten them to wear on their own. The flexible footbed offers some shock absorption, keeping pressure off your feet, as well as arch support, making these great slippers for plantar fasciitis or flat feet. The Vionic Relax house shoes are also extra supportive with their low wedge design, plush footbed, and uppers that hug your feet. These fuzzy women’s slippers are a great alternative to walking around the house barefoot, as those with bunions benefit from substantial arch support and cushioning. Wear them with toe spacers at home to fully relax your feet.

What testers say: “So warm and comfortable for my tailor’s bunion and plantar fascia! I wear it in the house all the time. I’m also happy that the velcro strap allows room for my wide feet (with a bunion on the side).”

Price upon publish date of this article: $70

Naot Santa Cruz Sandals

Size range: 4 to 11 women’s; 7 to 14 men’s
Materials: Leather
Special features: Adjustable straps; anatomic footbed; made with soft leather
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars

$150 Buy Men’s At zappos

$160 Buy Women’s At Zappos

This is the everyday shoe you’ll want to live in. Naot’s Santa Cruz sandal features two completely adjustable buckle closures that you can widen to accommodate even severe bunions, and the straps are made of soft leather that won’t dig into the skin. In our tests, we found that the sandal’s anatomic, suede-topped footbed molds to the shape of your foot — especially the longer you wear it. These slides also have great arch support, making them a solid pair of sandals for bunions and flat feet. This APMA-accepted arch support sandal is perfect for wearing daily on vacation, while strolling city streets, or even running errands. These are only available in full sizes, so if you’re in between, order the next full size up.

What reviewers say: “Fantastic sandal. well made, super comfortable, and very nice looking, I am rebuying more, so I never run out of them. Excellent buy! As good or better than Birkenstock.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $150

Best work shoes for bunions

Hush Puppies Women’s Cora Leather Loafers

Size range: 6 to 12 women’s
Materials: Leather
Special features: Available in wide width; made of soft, flexible leather
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
DSW Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars

On Sale 16% off

$80 Buy Now At Amazon

$80 Buy Now At DSW

$80 Buy Now At Hush Puppies

Lots of give from super soft, flexible leather uppers makes these Hush Puppies Cora Leather Loafers bunion-friendly. The footbed has memory foam cushioning for superior comfort, so these are ideal for all-day wear at the office. The Heel Pillow comfort pads are hidden in the heel area to help prevent rubbing and potential blistering, so you never really have to break these in. These loafers for women are ideal women’s shoes for bunions because they come in a wide fit for added room, while the extra space also makes these a great pair of shoes for flat feet or wide feet.

What testers say: “Super comfortable and fit for wide feet! These shoes are so soft and comfortable that I have no problem wearing them all day teaching.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $80

Best walking shoes for bunions

Brooks Ghost 15 Sneakers

Size range: 5 to 13 women’s; 7 to 15 men’s
Materials: Recycled materials 
Special features: Cushioned midsole; available in wide and extra wide; made of breathable mesh
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

$140 Buy Men’s At Zappos

$140 Buy Women’s At Zappos

$140 Buy Men’s At Amazon

$140 Buy Women’s At Amazon

This podiatrist-approved pair of Brooks neutral running shoes is big on structure, as it keeps your foot in the ideal position to decrease pain that stems from bunions. “A sneaker-like shoe is probably the best kind of shoe if you’re going be running around a city all day,” Dr. Davison says. The Brooks Ghost 15 offers lots of soft cushioning in the midsole to help relieve pressure with each step as well as a breathable mesh upper that keeps your feet cool, whether you’re wearing these while exploring a new city on foot or jogging around your neighborhood. Plus, these sneakers are APMA approved, which means podiatrists recommend them for promoting good foot health. 

What testers say: “Ghost 15s are the best shoes. I wear them every day for workouts, walking and daily business. I also wear orthotics and they fit no problem. I’ve been wearing Ghost shoes for years and have many pairs of Ghost 14 and 15.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $140

Xero The Dillon Sneakers

Size range: 5 to 12 women’s; 6.5 to 15 men’s
Materials: Mesh
Special features: Wide, anatomically shaped toe box; made of stretchy and breathable mesh uppers; zero drop
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

$100 Buy Men’s At Amazon

$100 Buy Women’s At Amazon

Xero Shoes is a barefoot shoe brand that makes footwear designed to fit your foot’s natural shape, which can lower your risk of developing bunions, according to Dr. Tarr. The Dillon is a very classic style and doesn’t have the look of your average barefoot shoe, so you can don these with the casual wear in your closet. The Dillons come with a wide, anatomically shaped toe box that gives even severe bunions room to spread out and the flexible sole won’t restrict your movements. The breathable mesh material means your feet will keep cool and comfortable. Consider this the go-to minimalist shoe that almost make it feel like you’re wearing nothing at all.

What testers say: “Similar style to Converse, which I wear all the time. And these have room for me to wiggle my toes and more support and comfort. Love them.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $100

Kuru Women’s Coda Suvi Sandals

Size range: 5 to 12 women’s
Materials: Leather
Special features: Open sandal doesn’t put pressure on the toes; leather straps are soft and padded; cushioned midsole and arch support

$135 Buy Now At Kuru

Finding a sandal that’s supportive enough to rival your favorite sneaker is no easy feat, but Kuru’s Coda Suvi flip-flop has it covered. When testing these, we especially loved that the leather upper is buttery soft and padded, so it won’t blister sensitive feet, and the microfiber-lined footbed offers added support to your heel. The flip-flop style ensures plenty of room for your toes to move around, rather than feeling constricted, which guarantees zero pressure on your bunions. These are also great for people with flat feet and plantar fasciitis, thanks to the cushioned midsole and arch support. 

What testers say: “I cannot even describe how comfortable these are. When you live your life with foot and knee pain then you find shoes that are not only attractive but also comfortable and comforting. These are those shoes. I purchased black and white. Heavenly.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $135

Best running shoes for bunions

AltraFWD Experience Sneakers

Size range: 5.5 to 12 women’s; 7 to 15 men’s
Materials: Mesh uppers
Special features: Low heel drop; roomy toe box; cushioned midsole
REI Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars

$140 Buy Men’s At REI

$140 Buy Women’s At REI

$140 Buy Men’s At Altra

$140 Buy Women’s AT Altra

Dr. Tarr calls the AltraFWD Experience sneaker an all-around great shoe. “It has an anatomical foot shape, which means it’s more likely to fit your bunion,” Dr. Tarr says. They also boast a low four-millimeter drop that keeps your foot in its natural position and an extra-cushioned rocker bottom propels you forward. These Altra sneakers also come with a ​​compression-molded midsole that offers support and shock absorption, making them supportive enough to wear if you have other foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis. “These shoes also can be worn in many different activities like daily walks, running, gym workouts, and more,” Dr. Tarr says.  

What testers say: “These are a perfect balance for me. I’m used to running in sneakers with a more narrow toe box which I learned is no longer good for my feet. These have a nice-sized toe box and are not overly big. My feet feel way better after long runs… These Altras check all the boxes for me: Comfort, the right amount of cushion, low drop, room for your toes to spread out, and most importantly my feet and body feel good after. I’d recommend these to my running buddies for sure.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $140

Best athletic shoes for bunions

Xero Prio Sneakers

Size range: 5 to 12 women’s; 6.5 to 15 men’s
Materials: Vegan leather
Special features: Wide toe box; soft and flexible upper; removable insole
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars

$95 Buy Men’s At Amazon

$95 Buy Women’s At Amazon

$90 Buy Men’s At Zappos

$90 Buy Women’s At Zappos

These do-it-all bunion shoes for men and women will support any active lifestyle. The super lightweight sneaker has a thin, responsive rubber sole provides a barefoot feeling, so they also bode well as substantial weightlifting shoes. Dr. Kuizinas especially loves that these shoes have a wide toe box with soft, flexible upper materials. “They are flexible in the sole and bend well at the great toe joint, but also offer enough cushioning to be comfortable even on hard surfaces,” she says. They also come with a removable insole for when you want a bit more support.

What testers say: “These are the best barefoot shoes I have found. I barely notice that they are on my foot during my run. I also love that they are a full shoe so that I can wear them for my work fitness test. I usually wear a 7.5 in running shoes which allows extra room for my foot expanding or swelling. In the Prio, I needed a size 8 to have the same space. So, be aware of that when purchasing!”

Price upon publish date of this article: $90

Naot Women’s Utopia Cetona Boots

Size range: 4 to 11 women’s
Materials: Leather
Special features: Wide toe box; soft leather upper, anatomic footbed
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars

$240 Buy Now At Amazon

$240 Buy Now At Nordstrom

These stylish boots for women have a wide, comfortable toe box and soft leather upper that eliminates any uncomfortable pressure on the toes. The double zippers add flair and make these easy to slip on and off. Plus, the anatomic footbed molds to your feet with wear, and is removable to make space for custom orthotics. We also love that these Naot boots are APMA accepted to promote good foot health long-term. Style these up with a sweater dress or a flannel and distressed jeans for the perfect autumn look.

What testers say: “The most comfortable boot I have ever worn! The longer I wear these boots the more comfortable they become. I have bad feet and boots are hard to find that are comfortable and stylish. … I will pay for quality and feel these boots are the best quality for my feet. I will be wearing this brand of boot for many years!”

Price upon publish date of this article: $240

Best dress shoes for bunions

Arcopedico Women’s L15 Flats

Size range: 5 to 11 women’s
Materials: Blend of Lycra and polyurethane 
Special features: Flexible upper material; removable insole
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars

On Sale 5% off

$90 Buy Now At Amazon

$105 Buy Now At Zappos

The genius of the Arcopedico L15 Flat is in its ultra-flexible upper that stretches and adapts to the foot, which is ideal for hammertoes and bunions. The upper is made with a material called Lytech, a blend of Lycra and polyurethane, which is breathable and water-resistant. It’s difficult to find flats with arch support or comfortable dress shoes, but these shoes for women with bunions boast a twin arch system in the removable insole that supports bones and joints in the arch (you can also swap it out for your own orthotic). As a bonus, the shoe’s small one-inch heel gives you a bit of added height while the sole offers extra cushion and traction. This ballet flat can be easily worn from 9-to-5 and into happy hour.

What testers say: “Comfortable and cute, with much more cushiony support than expected. I walked 10-plus miles the first day out in these [without] sore spots. Breathable, too. The white/black is great for casual/jeans, but can also be dressed up. I love these shoes, [and] I hate almost all shoes. I’m barefoot whenever possible, but these are the next best. I have a bunion and fairly wide feet, and still these shoes worked.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $90

Orthofeet Women’s Quincy Slip-On Loafers

Size range: 5 to 12 women’s
Materials: Synthetic
Special features: Available in wide and extra wide; extra depth design; adjustable strap; anatomical arch support
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Orthofeet Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars

On Sale 26% off

$100 Buy Now At Amazon

$100 Buy Now At Orthofeet

The soft, non-binding upper of the Orthofeet Quincy Slip-On gives your foot as much space as it needs. Even testers with severe bunions rave about how comfortable these slip-on sneakers are, thanks to their stretchy material and a velcro strap that adjusts for the perfect fit. These are also available in wide and extra wide sizing, and their extra depth design is podiatrist-recommended for bunions and hammertoes. Equipped with orthotic insoles and an anatomical arch, every part of the foot is supported and protected. It’s no surprise that these Orthofeets hold the APMA seal of acceptance. 

What testers say: “Love these shoes!! I had severe SI joint pain, but these shoes do not cause pain even when I am on my feet all day! I have wide feet, and my spurs/bunions are smaller and do not hurt anymore. Highly recommend! Worth the money.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $100

Be Lenka Women’s Diva Ankle Boots

Size range: 36 to 43 women’s
Materials: Leather
Special features: Wide toe box; zero heel drop; made of soft leather

$179 Buy Now At Be lenka

These Portugal-made leather ankle boots come recommended by Dr. Kuizinas because they check off all the boxes. “Be Lenka offers some of the widest toe boxes available, and these boots provide plenty of space to accommodate a bunion while still being very stylish,” she says. In addition to the wide toe box that allows for a full toe splay, these podiatrist-approved boots are also zero drop, so they’re flat from toe to heel, which may help prevent your bunions from getting worse. The sole is thin and is meant to feel like you’re walking barefoot, and the leather is flexible and buttery so it easily molds around your feet.

What testers say: “Beautiful shoes for those who don’t want to sacrifice comfort or style in the fall! The shoes go with every outfit, even a skirt or a warm dress! It is recommended to measure your foot when ordering for the first time.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $179

What to Look for in the Best Shoes for Bunions

If you have bunions, Dr. Davison says you may benefit from custom orthotics and shoe inserts for bunions, but you can also greatly alleviate the pain with your shoe choice. Here are the most important features to look for in good shoes for bunions:

• Wide toe box: The most important feature to look for is a wide toe box. “This means a toe box shape that is truly widest at the toes, and does not taper or become triangular in shape,” Dr. Kuizinas says. Having extra room in the toe area will prevent added pressure on your bunion, which could exacerbate the pain. “Avoid straight or narrow toe beds, which can result in painful friction,” Dr. Davison warns.
• Soft materials: If you already have a bunion, prioritize shoes made from softer material. Soft materials can stretch or give, and they won’t irritate your bunion from too much rubbing, say Dr. Tarr. “Since our feet need to be able to move and splay inside of the shoes, soft, expandable material is key to prevent restriction of the great toe joint while walking,” adds Dr. Kuizinas.
• Flexible sole: A flexible shoe sole allows for proper movement of the foot as you walk, particularly the movement of the big toe joint. Unfortunately, many shoes, even sneakers, have very stiff and rigid soles that completely block the necessary movement here. “You should be able to bend or flex the sole of your shoe easily,” Dr. Kuizinas says. 
• Low or zero heel elevation: High heels don’t directly cause bunions, but they can certainly make your condition worse. “Even a small heel in a shoe will push the center of mass forward and interfere with foot mechanics, exacerbating bunions,” Dr. Kuizinas says. The best option is a shoe that is flat from heel to toe, allowing your foot to sit on a level surface. 

What Causes Bunions? 

There are a lot of misconceptions about bunions and what causes them, with many people citing genetics, or even high heels as the inciting factor. But it’s a little more complicated than that. “People with flat, flexible feet are most prone to developing bunions,” Dr. Kuizinas says. “Often, more severe bunions are associated with hypermobility syndromes such as Ehlers-Danlos.” However, virtually any foot type can potentially develop a bunion. 

“The bottom line is that you develop a bunion because of your biomechanics,” says Dr. Davison. When the foot’s arch drops, or pronates, this causes the muscles on the bottom and side of the foot to stretch. Pronation increases pressure on the foot’s inner area, and bunions occur when the muscles on the top of the foot try to compensate for this, pulling back and causing the bone to jut out. So, genetics do play a part in causing bunions, but not how most people think of it. “You didn’t get a bunion because your grandmother had a bunion. You got a bunion because your feet pronate, just like your grandmothers’ pronated,” Dr. Davison concludes.

Consistently wearing shoes that are too tight in the toe box can increase your chances of developing a bunion, too. “To be able to fit into these shoes, your foot has to squeeze and toes have to come together more than they naturally should,” says Dr. Tarr. While this may not cause a bunion in every person, those with a predisposition to increased mobility or instability of the middle part of the foot are at a higher risk. “Therefore, choosing shoes that are overly rigid, extra narrow (although almost all modern shoes are too narrow), or high heels will force extra pressure and torsion into the great toe joint,” says Dr. Kuizinas, adding that these types of shoes can also irritate a bunion that is otherwise pain-free. 

Bunions are preventable, but early intervention is key. “If you take a kid whose muscles are young, flexible, and adapting, and you put them into orthotic footwear that doesn’t allow for pronation, their feet will develop in the correct position,”  Davison says. He advises that even people without foot issues should spend at least 50 to 60 percent of the time in supportive shoes to “greatly reduce the chance of developing bunions” in the future. By the time patients arrive in his office, they are usually far past that point and experiencing significant pain. 

Are There Fashionable Shoes for Bunions?

Footwear brands are prioritizing functional features now more than ever before, making it that much easier to find bunion-friendly shoes that are fashionable. Basically, so long as your shoe is made with proper biomechanics in mind — meaning, it’s not narrow or constricting, especially around the toe box, and is made of adjustable materials — it can be appropriate for bunions. 

Take the recent Gorpcore trend, which marries comfort with cool and has fueled never-before-seen mashups like the Chloe x Teva collaboration. Supportive soles, chunky shoes, and arch support have never looked so good. Even classic orthopedic shoe brands like Vionic and Clarks create a variety of styles that are in line with today’s trends, making it that much easier to build a better footwear rotation that protects and corrects your feet. Whether you’re shopping for boots, sneakers, sandals, or dress shoes, you’re bound to find a shoe that doesn’t compromise comfort for style. 

The Best Shoes for Bunions and Different Foot Types and Conditions

Bunions often contribute to other foot problems. Here’s what to look for according to your foot type and condition:

• The best shoes for bunions and hammertoes: Having bunions puts you at a higher risk of developing hammertoes, a condition where toe joints bend rather than laying flat. If you have bunions and hammertoes, Dr. Tarr recommends wearing wide-fitting shoes for bunions that are deeper to fit the bunion and hammertoe. This reduces the risk of painful rubbing. “The material should be soft to avoid irritating the bunion, too,” she says.
• The best shoes for bunions and flat feet: People with flat feet are more likely to have bunions, which is why both of our podiatrists recommend wearing wider shoes with a soft material that won’t irritate the bunion. “People with flat feet can benefit from additional arch support in their shoes, which can be achieved with an insole inside of a flat, flexible shoe,” Dr. Kuizinas says.
• The best shoes for bunions and wide feet: People with bunions fit best in shoes for wide feet to begin with, so look for a wider toe box (or shoes that are available in multiple widths) to accommodate for more space. Dr. Tarr also recommends looking for anatomically shaped shoes, which follow the natural shape of the foot.
• The best shoes for bunions and plantar fasciitis: If you have both conditions, look for a shoe with a wide toe box, soft and flexible upper materials, and a flat, flexible sole, Dr. Kuizinas says. Dr. Tarr also recommends shoes that are wider and are made of soft materials to fit the bunion. You also might want to look for an added heel cup to “take pressure off of the plantar fascia insertion while healing,” she says.

How We Chose the Best Shoes for Bunions

For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis, and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items. 

To choose the best shoes for bunions, we spoke to two top podiatrists for insight on what look for in supportive footwear, as well as brands and styles they recommend to patients with bunions and related foot conditions. We also researched many different styles from popular brands, including New Balance, Naot, Kuru, and more, and compared hundreds of customer reviews to narrow down our picks. FN editors also personally tested several pairs to include in this shopping guide. Learn more about us here.

Meet the Experts

Dr. Glenn Davison, DPM, FACFAS, is a board-certified podiatrist and the owner of Advanced Podiatry in New York City and New Jersey. He’s a Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons and has been in practice for more than 20 years. 

Sondema Tarr, DPM, is a board-certified podiatrist and owner of her private practice, Direct Podiatry Arizona. She’s done medical volunteer work at JFK Medical Center in Liberia.

Alissa Kuizinas, DPM is a board-certified podiatrist who specializes in natural foot function. Her passion is seeing her patients transform their feet without surgery, such as through proper footwear.

Meet the Author

April Benshosan is a health journalist and editor who’s interviewed countless doctors and other medical professionals as well as tested many pairs of orthopedic sneakers and shoes throughout her career, including bunion-friendly shoes. She’s dedicated to arming people with the information they need to make informed decisions about their health. Her work has been published in both print and digital outlets, including Women’s Health, SHAPE, VeryWell Fit, Health.com, LIVESTRONG.com, and more.

If you’re reading this, you probably already have an inkling of how common foot problems can be, and how many types of foot problems there are. While we wish this wasn’t the case, the prevalence of such foot problems is why it’s so crucial to pay close attention to your foot health — whatever your gender, age, and lifestyle. Depending on the foot condition, many of these can have further consequences on your overall health and daily life. At the most basic level, foot irritation or pain is unpleasant in itself, but it could also make everyday activities such as walking more difficult. Foot problems can also be associated with — or exacerbate — issues in the knees or back, for example, and if left untreated, some of them can cause further injury.

Of course, not all foot problems are the same. Some, such as calluses and bunions, are extremely common and often don’t cause too much pain or discomfort in everyday life. Foot problems like these can often be managed easily at home — for example, with hydrating foot masks for calluses, and in many cases by investing in a pair of supportive, comfortable shoes for men and women. With that in mind, it’s still important to consult a medical professional if you’re concerned, or if the condition appears to have progressed. Some problems are genetic in nature — such as flat feet and hammertoes — while others, like plantar fasciitis, develop as a result of age, lifestyle, or activity, and all of these can vary greatly in severity. Also, certain foot shapes such as high arches and flat feet are more prone to developing painful conditions under certain circumstances.

All foot problems can either be resolved, managed, or prevented with a visit to a podiatrist or other medical professional who can properly diagnose you if you’re unsure what’s going on, as well as design a personalized treatment plan for your specific condition. In all cases, the type of shoes you opt for matters greatly, and can help ease pain and prevent recurrences. Your podiatrist will also be able to advise you on that front, but the best shoes for foot problems are often ones with lots of cushioning or orthopedic shoes. Below, we go into detail about 15 common foot problems, what the symptoms are for each, and how to manage each one.

Achilles Tendonitis

• Symptoms: Pain, stiffness and swelling of the Achilles tendon
• Causes: Repetitive overuse of the Achilles tendon, especially running; menopause; injury; inflammatory disease
• Solutions: Rest; ice; stretching; extracorporeal shockwave therapy; footwear with cushioning, arch support and a substantial heel-toe drop to lift the heel

Achilles tendonitis corresponds to inflammation of the Achilles tendon, a band of tissue that goes upwards from above your heel. “Pain, stiffness, and swelling are common symptoms,” says London-based podiatrist Marion Yau of The Harley Street Foot and Nail Clinic. “This condition is caused by repetitive overuse of the Achilles tendon,” she adds, meaning that runners and athletes are at a higher risk for developing Achilles tendonitis. Those going through menopause, those with flat feet, or those with certain inflammatory diseases may also experience the condition.

Maggie Trevillion, a podiatrist and founder of Walk This Way Podiatry and the Callen Olive footcare line, notes that recommended treatment for this condition includes “rest, physical therapy, and proper footwear with cushioning and arch support.” She adds that extracorporeal shockwave therapy may also help. As for footwear, Yau is a big fan of Sapogi shoes for Achilles tendonitis, which are “equipped with replacement inserts, allowing us to add a heel lift as part of our treatment plan to relieve stress on the Achilles tendon.” The expert continues, “In addition, it provides arch support and stability for the foot to prevent further injury.”

Bunions

• Symptoms: Bony protrusion on the side of the foot, difficulty finding footwear that fits, pain in some cases
• Causes: Genetics, wearing footwear with a tapered toe box, gender (women are more often affected), age
• Solutions: Wearing footwear with a wide toe box, toe separators, cushioning pads, surgery in some cases

A bunion, also referred to as Hallux Valgus, is “a misalignment of the first metatarsophalangeal joint which causes a bony bump that protrudes to the inner side of the foot,” says podiatrist Dr. Robert M. Conenello of Orangetown Podiatry. “Although bunion deformity definitely has genetic origin, it can be enhanced by shoes with a tapered toe box. Due to shoe styles it is more commonly seen in women.” While bunions are not a serious condition and are typically not painful (though they can be), Stephanie Owen, a podiatrist and director of SO Podiatry, notes that they can cause sufferers to feel self-conscious about their feet, as well as making it harder to find shoes that fit properly. In most cases, treatment involves bunion-friendly footwear (shoes with a wide toe box or open-toed sandals for bunions are preferred), as well as wearing toe separators or cushioning pads. Dr. Conenello likes shoes by Altra and Topo for those affected by bunions. However, in some cases, surgery may be recommended to correct the deformity, per Owen.

Calluses

• Symptoms: Thickening and yellowing of the skin; pain
• Causes: Poor foot strength, structure and mechanics; age; wearing ill-fitted shoes
• Solutions: Daily moisturizing; wearing well-fitting, cushioned, neutral shoes; custom orthotics; professional treatment in some cases

Calluses look like a “thickening and yellowing of the skin,” says Yau, which can be caused from excess pressure on those areas. “Calluses may cause pain where they are located.” As for who is most likely to develop calluses, Dr. Conenello explains, “individuals with poor foot strength, structure and mechanics are most vulnerable.” The podiatrist adds, “More mature individuals are more likely to develop them as changes in mobility can cause more ‘wear’ to certain areas of the foot.” Moisturizing your feet every day with specially formulated foot cream (look for exfoliating ingredients like urea) can help with both treating and preventing calluses, and you should invest in neutral shoes or cushioned shoes that are well fitted to your foot to avoid any rubbing. In some cases, calluses may require professional treatment, consisting of debriding the hardened skin.

Corns

• Symptoms: Small, circular, thickened areas of skin; pain while walking
• Causes: Wearing the wrong footwear; abnormalities in foot structure or function; skin type; activity; fat pad composition; general health problems; skin hydration level
• Solutions: Switching to properly fitting footwear; using corn cushioning pads; consulting a podiatrist for potential enucleation

“Corns are common small, circular, thickened areas of skin that often develop on the tops or sides of toes, and on the soles of the feet,” says Trevillion. “Like calluses, they are typically caused by repeated friction and pressure on the skin, often due to ill-fitting shoes or abnormalities in foot structure or biomechanical function.” The expert adds that calluses and corns often go hand in hand, and that corns can cause discomfort and pain while walking, especially if you’re wearing the wrong footwear.

According to Owen, anyone can develop corns. “It all depends on the skin, activity, fat pad composition, health, skin hydration, and footwear,” she explains. Owen recommends seeing a podiatrist who can recommend treatment that’s personalized to your needs. This may include switching to properly fitted footwear, using corn cushioning pads for corns on the toes, or enucleation (which must be done by a podiatrist only).

Flat Feet

• Symptoms: Knee, hip, or lower back pain; overpronation; gait issues
• Causes: Genetics; age; injury; overuse of the surrounding muscles
• Solutions: Wearing footwear with arch support and a good heel-toe drop; wearing orthotic insoles; physical therapy

It’s important to note off the bat that having flat feet — feet where the arch touches the ground when standing — doesn’t necessarily indicate an issue. “Flat feet are generally healthy, normal, and genetic,” says Trevillion. “They are only a problem if they are symptomatic, significant asymmetry is present, and/or they are causing issues more proximally, such as knee, hip or lower back pain.” Flat feet can also develop over time due to age, injury, or overuse of the surrounding muscles, and cause pain, fatigue, and gait issues. When flat feet become a problem, the solution is to wear arch support shoes with a substantial heel-toe drop (over 7mm is best). Orthotic insoles may also be recommended, as well as physical therapy.

Hammertoes

• Symptoms: Abnormally bent toe; calluses or corns; pain; swelling; difficulty walking
• Causes: Genetics; bunions; injury or trauma; arthritis; neuromuscular disorders; muscle imbalances; foot structure; improper footwear such as narrow or high-heeled shoes
• Solutions: Roomy footwear; toe exercises; toe props; surgery if severe

Hammertoes are “toes that bend abnormally, often resembling a hammer,” says Trevillion, adding that they can cause quite a lot of pain or discomfort. “They can be rigid or flexible and, at times, have corns or calluses caused by shoes rubbing on the tops of the toes.” Hammertoes can be caused by a few different factors, including “muscle imbalances, foot structure, footwear, or trauma,” according to Dr. Conenello. Trevillion notes that hammertoes can also be genetic or caused by bunions, arthritis, a muscle imbalance in the leg or foot, or neuromuscular disorders. To help you deal with hammertoes, Trevillion suggests “roomy footwear, toe exercises, toe spacers, hammertoe cushion pads, and surgery if severe.” Yau particularly likes the Vionic Pacific Rio sandal for women with hammertoes, which are open-toed to prevent friction on the toes.

Heel Spurs

• Symptoms: Bony growth in the heel, sharp pain (especially in the morning), difficulty walking
• Causes: Overuse injuries (such as a lot of standing or running); weight
• Solutions: Rest, over-the-counter pain relievers, physical therapy, surgery in severe cases, shoes with high cushioning and heel support

Yau defines a heel spur as “a bony growth in the heel,” and says, “heel spurs can cause inflammation and pain in the heel area, and are usually found in those who are active or who do a lot of standing or running.” Trevillion adds that heel spurs can also be associated with excess weight. Treatment for heel spurs may include one or more of the following: rest, over-the-counter pain relievers, physical therapy, and surgery in severe cases. In all cases, appropriate shoes for heel spurs are necessary, meaning footwear with lots of cushioning and heel support, and/or the use of insoles for heel pain. Yau recommends the Brooks Dyad 11 sneaker for heel spurs.

A final note on this condition: Dr. Conenello and Owen both hesitate to use the term “heel spur” at all. Heel spurs “are an antiquated term that we have learned do not cause pain or pathology but are rather secondary findings on X-ray,” according to Dr. Conenello. If you suspect you have something that could be defined under the “heel spur” umbrella, it’s crucial to consult an expert podiatrist who can provide a personalized diagnosis and treatment plan.

Neuropathy

• Symptoms: Lack of normal sensation in the foot or increased sensation in the foot (i.e. pain); sores or wounds; lack of proprioception (awareness of the position of one’s body); imbalance; increased risk of falling
• Causes: Diabetes; traumatic nerve injury; spinal injury; surgery; anemia; can be idiopathic
• Solutions: Treating or managing the root cause; medication; physical therapy; lifestyle changes; wearing lightweight shoes with low drops

Neuropathy corresponds to a “lack of normal or increased sensation to the feet,” according to Dr. Conenello. “Symptoms include lack of proprioception, which can lead to imbalance and increased risk of falling,” the expert adds. Owen also notes that, since those suffering from neuropathy may not “feel” their feet, they can often present with wounds or sores because they’re overloading their feet while walking. She cites “diabetes, alcohol, traumatic nerve injury, spinal injury, surgery, and anemia” as some of the possible causes of neuropathy, although it can also be idiopathic (meaning the cause is unknown or difficult to trace). “There are no known cures but the symptoms can be managed with medications and better understanding the specific cause,” says Dr. Conenello. “Lightweight shoes with low drops are best for these individuals.” Physical therapy, wearing diabetes-friendly shoes or slippers, and additional lifestyle changes may also be recommended for patients with neuropathy.

Morton’s Neuroma

• Symptoms: Sharp pain or burning in the ball of the foot; tingling; numbness
• Causes: Wearing shoes that are too tight, such as high heels; injury; overuse
• Solutions: Physical therapy; corticosteroid injections; surgery; placing metatarsal pads below the ball of the foot; wearing shoes with a wide toe box

“Morton’s neuroma is the inflammation of the digital plantar nerve,” says Yau. “It can cause pain in the ball of the foot and can also cause tingling and numbness.” Morton’s neuroma is often seen on the nerve tissue between the third and fourth toes, and is common in women who wear high heels with a narrow toe box (such as pointy or square-toed stilettos). However, it can occur in anyone whose shoes are too tight, or as a result of injury or overuse in runners. “Treatment usually involves physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, and surgery,” says Yau. Choice of footwear is also central to managing Morton’s neuroma: The experts we spoke to recommend investing in shoes with a wider toe box, as well as the use of orthotics including metatarsal pads to place under the ball of the foot. “In the Gaviota 4, Hoka utilizes an innovative midsole design that offers shock absorption to reduce pressure on the feet,” says Yau. “The shoe is designed with a wider forefoot to reduce pressure on the toes and nerves. As a result, the plantar nerve may be less inflamed.”

Plantar Fasciitis

• Symptoms: Inflammation of the plantar fascia; micro tears; medial heel or arch pain
• Causes: Sex; age; overuse; flat feet; muscle inflexibility
• Solutions: Rest; ice; massage; stretching; wearing shoes for plantar fasciitis with plenty of arch support; wearing a Strassburg Sock; physical therapy; extracorporeal shockwave therapy; injection therapy; surgery

Plantar fasciitis is, unfortunately, a super common foot condition, and refers to inflammation of the plantar fascia. “This is an overuse injury in which repetitive stress to the connective tissue that helps to support the midfoot gets stressed beyond its capabilities and leads to overstretching and eventually micro tears,” says Dr. Conenello.

Those with plantar fasciitis are likely to feel “medial heel or arch pain, especially in the morning or after prolonged standing and periods of rest,” according to Trevillion. Plantar fasciitis can affect many different demographics and for many different reasons: Though middle-aged adults and women are the most likely to present with plantar fasciitis, it can also occur in growing children, those with flat feet, those who stand all day, or athletes “who overdo it and do not focus on strength, flexibility, mobility, and proper shoe gear,” per Dr. Conenello.

The treatment for plantar fasciitis includes “rest, ice, massage, stretching, shoes with arch support, wearing a Strassburg sock, physical therapy, extracorporeal shockwave therapy, or injection therapy,” says Trevillion. In extreme cases, surgery may be recommended. Yau likes Asics’ Gel shoe range for alleviating the symptoms of plantar fasciitis. These running and walking shoes for plantar fasciitis utilize “Gel technology, which reduces impact on the rearfoot, improves shock absorption, and reduces plantar fasciitis pain by reducing heel pressure,” Yau explains. Shoes specially designed for standing all day, slippers for plantar fasciitis, sandals for plantar fasciitis, and plantar fasciitis insoles can also help.

Posterior Tidal Tendonitis Dysfunction

• Symptoms: Pain; fallen arches; instability when walking
• Causes: Age; weight; sex (more common in women); overuse; tight muscles; incorrect posture; playing sports that involve repetitive movements
• Solutions: Physical therapy; stretching; ankle bracing; custom orthotics; surgery

Posterior tidal tendonitis dysfunction is “damage to the tendon supporting the arch of the foot,” says Trevillion. This can cause “pain, fallen arches, and instability when walking.”  The condition is often associated with age, weight, and sex (being more common in women), and can also be caused by “overuse, tight muscles, or incorrect posture,” according to Yau. That means that it’s often found in athletes who engage in repetitive movements. It’s crucial to consult a medical professional for help with this condition, because it can lead to “severe foot and ankle deformity if left untreated,” Trevillion says. Treatment may include physical therapy, stretching, ankle bracing, custom orthotics, and surgery in some cases.

Osteoarthritis

• Symptoms: Joint pain and stiffness
• Causes: Wear and tear; age; sex
• Solutions: Medications; physical therapy; and lifestyle changes; surgery; wearing well cushioned and/or rocker soled shoes

“Osteoarthritis is a bone condition caused by wear and tear,” says Yau. “It affects the joints, causing pain and stiffness.” The expert notes that osteoarthritis is most commonly found in women and in older adults. Treatment plans will include medications, physical therapy, shoes for arthritis, and lifestyle changes such as incorporating certain exercises. Surgery may also be required depending on your unique condition. “Often a rocker soled shoe will help with walking if you have good balance and no history of falling,” says Owen, while Yau recommends shoes from Xsensible, whose cushioning she says “helps provide balance and stability, reducing fatigue and pain, improving posture, and reducing knee pain.” Those with osteoarthritis should also consider shoes for knee pain and back pain for everyday wear.

Turf Toe

• Symptoms: Pain in the big toe; damage to the ligaments; swelling; limited movement
• Causes: Engaging in sports or activities that involve sudden turns or movements; hyperextending or bending the big toe backward
• Solutions: Rest; stopping exercise; taping; bracing; surgery; wearing shoes with a wide toe box or open-toed shoes

Turf toe is most often seen in athletes and/or dancers, and is a sprain of the big toe joint. Owen compares this condition to stubbing. “Turf toe can occur when the big toe is hyperextended or bent backward beyond its normal range of motion, often on a hard surface like artificial turf,” says Trevillion. “The injury can be painful and may result in damage to the ligaments around the big toe joint.” As well as pain, turf toe can also come with swelling and limit the patient’s movement in their big toe. It’s important to consult a medical professional as soon as possible if you suspect turf toe. A treatment plan will typically involve “rest and no exercise until it eases,” says Owen, plus taping, and in some cases bracing or surgery. You’ll likely be advised to wear shoes with a wide toe box or comfortable sandals to ease the pain and avoid causing further damage.

Stress Fractures

• Symptoms: Fracture in a bone; sudden onset; pain; swelling; difficulty bearing weight
• Causes: Repetitive stress or overuse of the foot; increasing volume of exercise too quickly
• Solutions: Rest; footwear with shock absorption; immobilization; custom foot orthotics; diet changes; exercises to improve form

“A stress fracture is a fracture that occurs along the length of a bone,” says Yau. “The metatarsal bone is usually affected by repetitive stress or overuse in the foot. Athletes are typically affected by this condition.” Dr. Conenello adds that stress fractures are often seen in people who start exercising much more, too suddenly, without adequate build-up. Associated symptoms are “sudden onset, pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight,” adds Trevillion. Stress fractures will typically be treated with “rest, proper footwear with shock absorption, and sometimes immobilization with an aircast boot to accelerate healing,” the expert adds. “If it reoccurs, custom foot orthotics may be needed.” To help prevent a new stress fracture, you may be recommended dietary changes and exercises to rectify your form.

Athlete’s Foot

• Symptoms: Itching; burning; peeling and cracking of the skin; redness
• Causes: Exposure to infected areas, especially moist and warm environments, such as swimming pools and gym floors
• Solutions: Keeping the foot clean and dry; wearing breathable shoes and moisture-wicking socks; antifungal medication and creams; using anti-microbial spray in shoes

Athlete’s foot is aptly named, given that it’s common in athletes who perspire a lot and spend a lot of time in damp shoes. “Usually found in people exposed to common infected areas such as swimming pools and gym floors, athlete’s foot is a fungal skin infection,” explains Yau. “This infection causes itching, burning, peeling, and cracking of the skin around the affected foot.” Even though it’s very unpleasant, athlete’s foot is highly treatable by keeping the foot as clean and dry as possible, including wearing highly breathable footwear made of leather, canvas, or certain synthetics. Yau likes the Skechers Go Walk Max-Athletic Air Mesh Slip On shoes for this purpose, and you can also check out our list of the best slip-on sneakers for alternatives. If you’re wearing socks, you should opt for a pair that’s specifically designed to be moisture-wicking, or made out of natural fibers such as cotton, hemp, or bamboo. Additionally, your doctor will likely advise you use antifungal cream or oral antifungal medication, as well as using an anti-microbial spray for your shoes.

Why Trust Footwear News

For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items. Learn more about us here.

Meet the Experts

Marion Yau is an award-winning celebrity podiatrist based in London, UK. She practices at The Harley Street Foot and Nail Clinic, where she specializes in the use of hot and cold laser therapy to treat fungal nail infections. Yau creates educational content on social media as Miss Foot Fixer. You can find her on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok.

Maggie Trevillion is a podiatrist based in London and the founder of Walk This Way Podiatry and the Callen Olive footcare line. She began her career in foot health working in the National Healthy Service, the Ministry of Defence, and through private practice. in 2012, she created the Walk This Way Podiatry center to specializes in podiatry and orthotics.

Dr. Robert M. Conenello is a practicing podiatrist and founder of Orangetown Podiatry in New York City. His expertise is focuses on the prevention and rehabilitation of foot pathologies. He treats athletes with common foot conditions and serves as the Clinical Director of the Special Olympics New Jersey Healthy Athletes division. He has also contributed as a medical expert at the New York and Boston marathons and The Racing the Planets Sahara Race.

Stephanie Owen is a podiatrist and the director of SO Podiatry who specializes in lower limb biomechanics and gait analysis. She lent her expertise in Musculoskeletal Medicine at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham for seven years of her career, as well as served as a professor in clinical practice at the University of Galway. In 2017, she created the SO Podiatry Ltd to provide private podiatry care in Worcester, England.

Meet the Author

Iris Goldsztajn is a freelance writer and editor based in London, UK. She is currently the morning editor at Marie Claire, and her work has appeared in the likes of British Vogue, InStyle, Brides, Refinery29, Bustle, and many more. She is originally from Paris, France, and has lived in Los Angeles and New York City. Previously, Iris was the associate editor at Her Campus, where she was responsible for all style and beauty blog content. Goldsztajn regularly researches the shoe market and tests footwear, and her expertise informed this breakdown of common foot conditions.

Top Toe Spacers of 2023

Best Toe Spacers for Bunions

Natracure Gel Separators

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Buy Now At AMazon $14.99

Best Podiatrist-recommended toe separators 

Pedifix 3-Layer Toe Separators

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Best Toe Spreaders

Mind Bodhi Toe Separators

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Buy Now At Amazon $9.99

Best Toe Spacer Socks

The Original Foot Alignment Socks with Toe Separators

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Buy Now At Amazon $26.95

Best Gel Toe Spacers

Zentoes Double Loop Toe Separators

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Best Toe separators for overlapping toes

Tech Love Toe Spacers

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Buy Now At Amazon $15.99

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Small but mighty, toes are one of the most overlooked parts of human body. Not only do toes support your body weight in every stance and stride, but they’re also key to your balance and posture. They launch us from small steps to sprints and jumps, and are essential for many of our automatic functions. All that hard work comes with wear and tear, which is why it’s important to show your toes some love with the best toe spacers and separators.

If you suffer from regular foot pain, whether due to a common foot condition or tight-fitting, fashionable footwear, toe spacers offer immediate relief. Like any other part of the body, it’s hard to discern how tight your muscles have gotten until you indulge in a big, practically cathartic stretch. The muscles in your foot and toes are no different. As the name suggests, toe spacers slide between the toes to spread the muscles, release tension, and promote a healthy splay. They can be worn in 15 minute shifts or throughout an entire day, and, with consistent use, toe spacers can help correct common causes of foot pain.

Toe spacers act as a soft barrier between to toes to block painful rubbing and irritation, while also returning crooked or crowded toes to their natural form. “Toe spacers can help align your toes and add protection from corns, calluses, and blisters, which often occur for people with conditions such as bunions and hammertoes,” explains New York podiatrist Dr. Scott Whitney, DPM. “There are different types of toe spacers. They come in small, medium, large, or extra large sizes and different materials such as gel toe spacers, silicone toe spacers, and foam and felt options.”

Choosing the best toe spacer will depend on your needs and how you intend to wear it. Some toe spacers can be worn under socks and everyday shoes to make steps more comfortable, while other orthopedic toe separators act as foot exercisers and massagers that can be used while you lounge at home with your slippers on standby. Regardless, it’s always a good idea to hone in on foot health, especially if you experience discomfort in your joints, posture, or feet, and toe spacers are an easy and affordable place to start.

Below, view the six best podiatrist-approved toe spacers and separators to shop for optimal foot health.

Best Toe Spacers for Bunions

Natracure Gel Separators

Best for: Bunions, hammertoes, overlapping toes
Sizes: One size
Materials: Gel
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Walmart Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

$14.99 Buy Now At AMazon

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Natracure Gel Separators are ideal for treating bunions and correcting hammertoes. The individual spacers have a curved shape that fits snug between the toes to absorb shock, prevent painful rubbing, and relieve pressure. Their special Smartgel material is infused with medical-grade mineral oil, vitamin E, and soothing aloe vera, which omits healthy moisture to soothe irritated skin. These separators can be worn under socks during low-impact activities, such as yoga or walking. And they’re low-profile enough to wear through a day of work, as they can fit into comfortable dress shoes, work boots for men and work shoes for women.

What testers say: “I was having a lot of discomfort in my foot. The pain was a burning sensation between the little toe and the one next to it. I went to the orthopedic surgeon and he found that there was a small bunion that was caused by rubbing. He removed it right then and there and told me that the best thing to buy was these little silicone toe separators. They work great. So easy to use. You just hold onto each end and slightly pull, slide them between the toes that bother you, and that’s it. I have had no problem with them staying in place. I can just pull my socks off and they are still between the toes. I also put one between my big toe and the next to help with a slight hammer toe. Well worth the small investment.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $14.99

Best Podiatrist-recommended toe separators 

Pedifix 3-Layer Toe Separators

Best for: Crooked toes, corns
Sizes: Small, medium, and large
Materials: Foam
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Walmart Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

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$6.25 Buy Now At Amazon

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When Dr. Whitney’s patients are in need of toe spacers, he recommends Pedifix. The brand is recognized by many podiatrists and orthopedics for its high-quality construction, anatomical designs, and overall effectiveness in relieving common foot pain. The Pedifix 3-Layer Toe Separators are designed to relieve corns, reduce overall pressure, and straighten crooked toes. They’re made of plush foam that’s hooked to slot between the toes for soft cushioning. Each pack comes with six spacers in different sizes, so each toe gets a custom fit.

What testers say: “I really like these toe separators. I have long toes and flat feet, so these work better for me than gel separators. You can easily fit three on each foot inside a normal sneaker. I really think that the use of these separators (plus some new cushioned sneakers and insoles) is responsible for finally starting to straighten out my hammertoes after only about three weeks of use. I’m really happy with this product.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $6.25

Best Toe Spreaders

Mind Bodhi Toe Separators

Best for: Bunions, overlapping toes
Sizes: One size
Materials: Gel
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

On Sale 19% off

$9.99 Buy Now At Amazon

If you’re looking for a toe spacer you can wear out and about with dress shoes or casual white sneakers, go with these soft toe separators from Mind Bodhi Health & Wellness. They’re a #1 Amazon best-seller in Bunion Pads, with over 30,000 glowing five-star reviews. Made of flexible gel, these toe spacers slide into each toe, spread them to an optimal width, and provide instant tension relief. This option is best for realignment or general foot pain, and can be worn barefoot, under socks, and in shoes for wide feet or bunions.

What testers say: “My feet and toes are always aching after wearing dress shoes all day at work and years of tight-fitting shoes. I was amazed at how good the stretch felt when I put these on. Depending on your feet, the bands feel a little tight after wearing them for a while, but nothing painful. They feel good when I am wearing them.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $9.99

Best Toe Spacer Socks

The Original Foot Alignment Socks with Toe Separators

Best for: Bunions, plantar fasciitis, sore feet and aches
Sizes: Small, medium, large
Materials: Cotton, polyester, elastane
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

$26.95 Buy Now At Amazon

Don’t get cold feet while investing in foot health — there are cozy options, too. These toe-separating socks are great for the cold seasons, because you can wear them under furry winter boots or Ugg slippers for double the comfort, warmth, and support. They’re designed to stretch and align toes, treat bunions and hammertoes, improve circulation, and relieve soreness while you’re on your feet all day. Original Foot Alignment Socks work for almost every foot concern, including plantar fasciitis, bunions, hammertoes, corns, and general foot pain or discomfort.

What testers say: “I have had knee pain and foot pain for about five years. I have been wearing these for less than a month and I feel the difference! I don’t creak and pop as I get out of bed or my chair. I am under 50 years old and felt like I was in my 70’s. My husband is also wearing a pair and says he is amazed by the relief from his plantar fasciitis foot pain. I highly recommend — these work wonders for us!”

Price upon publish date of this article: $26.95

Best Gel Toe Spacers

Zentoes Double Loop Toe Separators

Best for: Overlapping toes, bunions, rubbing, corns, blisters
Sizes: One size
Materials: Gel
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Target Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars

$12.99 Buy Now At Amazon

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These toe separators from Zentoes help to save cramped toes from misalignment and protect against rubbing — they’re some of the best toe spacers for runners you can find. They also aid in relieving other foot pains, such as bunions, corns, and blisters. Thanks to gel material that gently clings to the skin and the double loop design, these spacers hold in a secure fit that won’t slip. Plus, they’re washable, reusable, and packaged with recycled materials.

What testers say: “This is the best product I have ever used. My podiatrist told me about them and they saved me from having a third, very invasive foot surgery. I have used them for two years and they completely prevent me horrible, taser-like nerve shoots through my foot. They have also straightened out my bunion. I also love that they hire people with disabilities. Bravo Zentoes!”

Price upon publish date of this article: $6.99

Best Toe separators for overlapping toes

Tech Love Toe Spacers

Best for: Plantar fasciitis, overlapping toes
Sizes: One size
Materials: Polypropylene
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

$15.99 Buy Now At Amazon

Tech Love offers a toe spacer that also serves as a deep foot massager. It can be used for daily exercises that gradually correct foot problems like bunions, flat feet, and pain from plantar fasciitis. It comes with week-by-week instructions for use in stages: Sitting to improve grip strength, standing for arch and ankle stability, and walking to hone in on calf strength. It’s suitable for all foot sizes and types, is easy to clean, and has non-slip grip traction for a secure stance and step.

What testers say: “These take a bit of getting used to as they really spread the toes. The round ball part the foot sits on feels good after a while. Probably not the sort you’d want to sleep in, but after a long day of feet in cramped shoes, a short stretch does wonders.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $$15.99

Do Toe Spacers Work?

Yes, they do. Toe spacers won’t heal all your foot concerns over night, but they will make a noticeable difference in your foot health with consistent use. “Toe spacers absorb pressure and friction between toes,” says Dr. Whitney. “They cushion, divide, and align crooked and overlapping toes.” They also work to stretch and exercise the toes to improve foot flexibility and muscle strength.

Dr. Whitney explains that toe spacers or separators should be inserted between your toes where you feel the most discomfort. “It should be snug but not too tight. They can be worn for extended periods of time, but I don’t recommend wearing them while sleeping,” he explains.

The Benefits of Toe Spacers

Toe spacers are a simple practice to incorporate in your daily routine that can improve an array of foot issues you may face. Nearly everyone can benefit from the use of toe spacers because they stretch overworked muscles that often get overlooked. In fact, according to a 2018 study published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research, about 70 percent of people own ill-fitting shoes that don’t properly accommodate the width and length of their feet. This results in a common slew of foot pains and concerns, such as overcrowded toes, bunions, corns, and plantar fasciitis, which can all be adjusted with the help of toe spacers.

“Toe spacers are important for foot health because they can help alleviate foot pain and discomfort,” says Dr. Whitney. “They can be helpful for athletes that experience a lot of strain, people with foot conditions, and those who wear tight or uncomfortable shoes.” Additionally, toe spacers stimulate blood circulation to the toes and help to reform toe alignment, which could even help soothe joint pain in the knees, hips, and back over time. They can also improve overall balance and posture, particularly if your big toe is misaligned.

Dr. Whitney adds that toe spacers also aid in comfort under shoes and socks by providing space and separation between cramped toes. Whether you often opt for fashion over function, log a lot of miles in your running shoes, or manage conditions like flat feet, rheumatoid arthritis, hammertoes, or bunions, toe spacers are a worthwhile investment to treat concerns before they get worse. 

How We Chose the Best Toe Spacers

For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.

To select the best toe spacers and separators, we spoke to expert podiatrist Dr. Scott M. Whitney, DPM for important insight regarding the benefits of toe spacers, including notes about what foot types and conditions they’re best for, how to wear them and for how long, and why they’re important for foot health. Our expert also provided recommendations on the best brands available to shop for different foot pains and concerns. We also enlisted product testers and sifted through honest customer reviews to compare and curate the most effective and comfortable toe spacers on the market. Learn more about us here.

Meet the Expert

Dr. Scott Whitney, DPM is a podiatry specialist in New York City with over 40 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from New York College of Podiatric Medicine.

Meet the Author

Olivia Cigliano is a Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD where she writes shopping content on the best-rated footwear, TikTok style trends, and more. Olivia received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Emerson College, and her byline can be found in publications including Elite Daily and CR Fashion Book. She is currently based in New York City. As someone who manages mild bunions and hammertoes, Cigliano wrote this story with invested interest and genuine recommendations.

Top Insoles for Heel Pain of 2023

Best insoles for standing all day With heel pain

Dr Scholl’s Orthotics for Heel Pain

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Buy Now At Amazon $12

Best Insoles for Heel Pain and Arch Support

New Balance Casual Arch Support Insoles

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Buy Now At Amazon $55

Best insoles for flat feet

Superfeet Green High Arch Orthotic Support Insoles

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Buy Now At Amazon $55

Best Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis and heel pain

Aetrex Compete Posted Orthotics Insoles

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Buy Now At Aetrex $65

Best work boot insoles for heel pain

Cruvheel Work Orthotic Insoles

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Buy Now At Amazon $30

Best insoles for walking and standing all day

Superfeet Casual Easyfit Insoles

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Buy Now At Zappos $35

Best running insoles for heel pain

Enertor Running Insoles

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Buy Now At Enertor $50

Best heel cups

Vivesole Gel Heel Cups

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Buy Now At Amazon $10

Powerstep Pinnacle Breeze Insoles

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Buy Now At Amazon $40

Samarai Ninjas Arch Support Shoe Insoles

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Buy Now At Amazon  $30

Best insoles for heel and ball of foot pain

Dr. Scholl’s Ball of Foot Metatarsal Pain Relief Pad Insoles

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Buy Now At Amazon $10

Best Orthopedic insoles for heel pain

Walk Hero Comfort and Support Shoe Insoles

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Buy Now At Amazon $11

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If you’re suffering with heel pain, you’ll know how much it can impact your day-to-day life — from your ability to exercise and work to enjoying the simple things in life. But what actually causes this, and how can insoles for heel pain help? According to Mayo Clinic, foot problems such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, flat feet, and heel spurs can all be a source of pain in the heel. 

The best way of diagnosing the root cause of your heel pain is to visit a podiatrist who can make a detailed assessment. A professional can advise on whether an over-the-counter shoe insert for heels will suffice, or whether you need more prescriptive treatment and a custom-made insert. The best insoles can help in a number of ways, such as supporting your arches to relieve pressure on the plantar fascia, helping with shock absorption and alignment issues (which can also help to address stress on the heel), and assist with the redistribution of pressure on the footbed. 

To put together our shortlist of the best shoe inserts for heels, we spoke to experts in the field, including Dr. Soheil Ashkani-Esfahani, MD, Principal Investigator, Director of FARIL at Massachusetts General Hospital and Faculty of Orthopaedic Surgery at Harvard Medical School; Dr. Liza Egbogah, one of North America’s leading fascia and posture experts and founder of Dr. Liza shoes; and foot specialist Joanne Atkinson.

We also spent hours researching the top insole brands such as Dr. Scholl’s, New Balance, and Aetrex, while taking into consideration the hundreds of online reviews available and conducting our own product testing. We’ve considered a range of day-to-day needs, too, including insoles for work boots, supination insoles, and insoles for plantar fasciitis. Ahead, find the 12 best shoe inserts for heel pain.

Best insoles for standing all day With heel pain

Dr Scholl’s Orthotics for Heel Pain

Size range: 8 to 12 men’s; 5 to 12 women’s
Materials: Not specified 
Special features: Supportive heel cup, three-quarter length design
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

On Sale 25% off

$12 Buy Now At Amazon

If you have a job that involves standing all day, you probably find that your heel pain gets worse as the day progresses. A shoe insert like this one from Dr Scholl’s provides all-day comfort and helps with a number of causes of heel pain including plantar fasciitis and heel spurs. It does this with Shock Guard technology that absorbs impact, a supportive heel cup for added padding, and a three-quarter length design that ensures they fit into nearly all shoes. 

What testers say: “They fit great, they’re very comfortable but most of all they work! I have not had any more heel pain since I started walking with them in my shoe.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $12

Best Insoles for Heel Pain and Arch Support

New Balance Casual Arch Support Insoles

Size range: XS to XXL
Materials: Polyester Polyethylene Polypropylene
Special features: Deep, wide heel cup  
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

$55 Buy Now At Amazon

These insoles from New Balance boast a deep heel cup to lessen the impact on the heel while providing stability and heel control — essential in reducing strain to the plantar fascia. The heel cup’s wide width also makes these insoles a great choice for those with wide feet, and testers note that they fit well in any pair of plantar fasciitis-friendly running shoes or walking shoes.

“They also feature great arch support so there’s less tension on the heel and high-density foam for shock absorption,” says Dr. Egbogah. “Many orthotic insoles offer too much cushioning to make the insole feel comfortable, and while all that cushioning and memory foam may feel great, they’re not helpful when it comes to treating plantar fasciitis or heel pain.” Dr. Egbogah notes that they also incorporate therapeutic features similar to what you’d get in a clinic with custom orthotics. “Thanks to these shock absorbing and supportive components these are helpful for all forms of heel pain,” Dr. Egbogah explains.
 
What testers say: “Worth every penny you pay for them… you think your feet and shoes are worn out but they put new life into both… and they make even old feet feel like new even in new shoes”.

Price upon publish date of this article: $55

Best insoles for flat feet

Superfeet Green High Arch Orthotic Support Insoles

Size range: 5.5 to 15.5 men’s; 4.5 to 14 women’s
Materials: Polypropylene
Special features: Designed to be trimmed, deep heel cup, high-density foam
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

$55 Buy Now At Amazon

Flat feet can not only cause pain in the heels but also in the arches, hips and knees. A shoe insert with a supportive heel cup, like this one from Superfeet, can help to keep the foot more supported and stable and relieve you of some of that discomfort. If you’re very sporty and active, they’re also designed to protect the feet from repetitive impact and long distances, and they’re known to fit in all types of running shoes, including stability running shoes and cushioned running shoes. What’s more, extra arch support and a high-profile shape keeps the foot stable and supported. 

What testers say: “I can not rave about this product enough. I started waitressing and very quickly (after 12 hour days) got awful foot pain. Not typical soreness but pain due to lack of arch support as I had high arches. I purchased these and after an initial 2 days to get used to them/break them in when they felt too hard — I have had no soreness like I did before. I am able to be on my feet for hours at a time with no soreness and the size fits perfectly into my trainers. No smell is kept on the insole and it’s easy to give it a quick wash/scrub in the sink. Will absolutely be purchasing again when these wear out.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $55

Best Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis and heel pain

Aetrex Compete Posted Orthotics Insoles

Size range: 4 to 13
Materials: CopperGuard® antimicrobial lining, Pro-Shox® polyurethane
Special features: Medial rearfoot post

$65 Buy Now At Aetrex

“I recommend the Aetrex Compete Posted Orthotics insole for those with heel pain or plantar fasciitis,” says Dr. Egbogah. “The key feature that earns my seal of approval is the medial rearfoot post. This feature helps keep your feet aligned and controls overpronation.” They also have great arch support, which is essential in reducing the strain on the plantar fascia and reducing heel pain. Dr. Egbogah explains that these insoles also use polyurethane for shock absorption, which makes it suitable for all types of heel pain. “Many orthotic insoles use memory foam which offers comfort but long term is not therapeutic and doesn’t help in treating heel pain in conditions like plantar fasciitis,” Dr. Egbogah adds.
 
What testers say: “These are the best orthopedic inserts. I have Posterior Tibial Tendonitis and can’t walk for long distances or stand in place for long. These have helped my endurance enormously and have kept the arches from collapsing.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $65

Best work boot insoles for heel pain

Cruvheel Work Orthotic Insoles

Size range: 7 to 14.5 women’s; 6.5 to 13.5 men’s
Materials: Gel
Special features: Cushioning layer, optimal arch support, deep U-cup heel, and shock-absorbing cushioning pads
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

$30 Buy Now At Amazon

If you’re looking for insoles for work boots, these orthotic insoles from Cruvheel can help to protect your feet from daily impact. They’re designed to be trimmed to size and support the longitudinal and transverse arches of the foot while keeping your feet in the right position. Optimal arch support, a deep U-cup heel and shock-absorbing cushioning pads provide you with hours of relief, making any pair of boots some of the most comfortable shoes for men and women in your closet. 

What testers say: “These insoles have been a game changer for my new pair of work shoes. It took a minute for them to conform to my feet but now that they have they are so much more comfortable than the stock insoles. I would purchase them again!”

Price upon publish date of this article: $30

Best insoles for walking and standing all day

Superfeet Casual Easyfit Insoles

Size range: 8.5 to 12 women’s; 7.5 to 15 men’s
Materials: Suede top
Special features: Moisturewick, no trimming required, slim fit, slip-resistant edges
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars

$35 Buy Now At Zappos

The best insoles for standing all day cushion the impact on the heels and keep the feet secure and stable. This Easyfit pair from Superfeet has a contoured shape to reduce stress on the feet and ankles, and a microsuede top to reduce rubbing. Most testers report that they don’t need any trimming (although you can trim them if needed), and they’re designed to slip straight into your shoes and deliver support for up to a year. The contoured, arch-supporting fit makes them an ideal pair for those who deal with plantar fasciitis flare ups.

What testers say: “Great inserts! I bought these for a pair of dress shoes that had very little room for inserts and these fit perfectly. They are super comfortable and provide excellent arch support. They do take some getting used to as there is a break-in period but they are otherwise very comfortable.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $35

Best running insoles for heel pain

Enertor Running Insoles

Size range: 3 to 14 
Materials: PX1 Shock absorbing material
Special features: Arch support, heel cup, shell feature supports the foot

$50 Buy Now At Enertor

“Enertor insoles are, in my opinion, by far the best on the market,” says foot specialist Joanne Atkinson owner of ifoothealthcare. “I have used other companies and they do not compare. The shock absorbing property of PX1 technology that sits within both Enertor’s walking and running insoles gives comfort and confidence to those wearing them. Impact and vibrations are transmitted horizontally through the insole rather than vertically through the body, so great for sports people and anyone active on their feet.” These running insoles are relatively lightweight and thin, but still offer plenty of support across the full length of your feet.

What testers say: “Can’t recall how I came to know about these insoles but it was like winning the lottery for my legs and feet. Thought I was going to have to stop running until I discovered these insoles. Now…. I run longer. Thank you!”

Price upon publish date of this article: $50

Best heel cups

Vivesole Gel Heel Cups

Size range: Small, medium, and large available
Materials: Silicone gel
Special features: Shock absorbing support heel, contouring fit
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

$10 Buy Now At Amazon

If you don’t want a full insole in your shoe, a heel cup is a great alternative. This silicone version from ViveSole has a self-adhesive base that secures to the heel of most shoes including men’s and women’s walking sneakers, dress shoes, and boots. They also help to relieve the pain of conditions such as tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and bone spurs by providing cushion and support. An added bonus? They’re less expensive than many full insoles.

What testers say: “As a first time buyer of heel cups and no idea of what to expect, these are awesome and easy to wear. Great fit with my sneakers and a great fit with my work boots. Very comfortable.. highly recommend”.

Price upon publish date of this article: $10

Powerstep Pinnacle Breeze Insoles

Size range: 3 to 16 men’s; 5 to 12 women’s
Materials: Foam
Special features: Semi-rigid polypropylene support shell, odor control
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

$40 Buy Now At Amazon

Offering semi-rigid arch support and dual-layer shock absorption, Powerstep’s Pinnacle Breeze insoles are our top pick for high-impact exercise. They have a ventilated mesh top that keeps the feet cool and odor-free as your train, and the arch support and heel cradle keep the foot supported and cushioned. Ideal if you have plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis. 

What testers say: “My adult daughter recommended these to me. I was very skeptical that they would help problems I have with walking and knee pain. I was wrong and they really do help. My daughter had gone to “Good Feet Store” and said they were very expensive, she did however look at their products. She went online to Amazon and found these inserts that she thought looked comparable to the ones in the store. She told me how well they worked for her. So I tried as well. Glad I did”.

Price upon publish date of this article: $40

Samarai Ninjas Arch Support Shoe Insoles

Size range: 3.5 to 15 men’s; 4 to 12.5 women’s
Materials: Polypropylene
Special features: Low profile, available in larger sizes
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

$30 Buy Now At Amazon

Running up to a size 16.5 for men and 12.5 for women, Samurai’s insoles are a great option if you have larger feet. They’re made from lightweight polypropylene and have a super-slim profile so they won’t take up unnecessary room in your shoes. They’re also specifically designed by a podiatrist for the needs of flat feet. 

What testers say: “I have very flat feet, and these help a ton. I have tried a bunch of different ones and these have provided me with the best support. On my third pair now. However they are thin and hard, so if you’re looking for something soft to add cushion these aren’t it”. 

Price upon publish date of this article: $30

Best insoles for heel and ball of foot pain

Dr. Scholl’s Ball of Foot Metatarsal Pain Relief Pad Insoles

Size range: One size
Materials: Plastic
Special features: Adhesive backing, fits all shoes, raised foam cushioning, shock guard technology
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

On Sale 23% off

$10 Buy Now At Amazon

Many people with heel pain also suffer with discomfort in the ball of the foot, too. If this sounds familiar and you need instant relief, the nearly 2,000 five-star reviews of these pain relief pads are pretty impressive. They’re specifically designed to target the metatarsal area in the ball of the foot and secure easily into shoes with an adhesive backing. Wear them for interval training, walks, and everything in between.

What testers say: “I got into running about a year ago, and a few months ago I really started to push myself, and I pushed so hard that I did something to the ball of my foot. For the past few months I haven’t been able to run, and it’s been painful to even walk… after taking my dogs for a walk around the block, my feet are on fire. Not anymore, though!!!! I don’t know why it took me so long to find these things, they are complete and total life savers! I was on my feet all day yesterday, and I was fine. Took my dogs on a super long walk today, didn’t hurt at all. They are simple and work very very well”.

Price upon publish date of this article: $10

Best Orthopedic insoles for heel pain

Walk Hero Comfort and Support Shoe Insoles

Size range: 5 to 13 men’s; 6.5 to 11.5 women’s
Materials: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate
Special features: Deep heel cupping, semi rigid arch support, max cushioning, full-length footbed
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

$11 Buy Now At Amazon

Insoles can be expensive, so if you don’t want to make a major investment, these memory foam insoles from Walk Hero are a great pick. They have 14,000 five-star reviews on Amazon thanks to their many great features: Testers love the deep heel cup, semi-rigid arch support and max cushioning. They also don’t need to be trimmed to size and fit well in most standard shoes.

What testers say: “I’m on concrete between 8 to 12 hours a day and these inserts have been a foot saver! Several times before, I would have flare-ups of plantar fasciitis… Since wearing these has made my day alot more comfortable. No tired or sore feet anymore. Usually last about 6 to 8 months and well worth the low price compared to many that are over $29.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $11

What to Look for in the Best Insoles for Heel Pain

• Cushioning: If you have a foot condition such as plantar fasciitis, look for insoles that have padding at the heel. This will help to reduce the pain you feel in your heel as the impact will be reduced. However it won’t necessarily cure the root cause of the problem (particularly for overuse injuries like plantar fasciitis, which also requires plantar fasciitis stretches and plenty of rest).
• Fit: “The insole should be specific to your foot condition, shape, and form,” explains Dr. Ashkani-Esfahani. “The insole should support the arch of your foot while distributing the load appropriately and offload and support the vulnerable areas of the foot.”
• Over the counter vs. custom insoles: “Insoles should be patient-specific and chosen based on every patient’s foot condition including shape, form, any pathologies in the feet, stance, and also type of activity,” says Dr Ashkani-Esfahani. The best way of getting to the root cause of your pain is by visiting a podiatrist who can examine your feet properly and advise on whether you need an over-the-counter or custom insole.
• Rigid vs. flexible insoles: A rigid insole is generally made from a material such as carbon fiber or hard plastic. These types of insoles are usually less comfortable than a flexible one, but they are designed to offer extra support and stability for those with more severe foot problems. Flexible insoles, however, are designed to bend and move with your feet, so they’re suitable for a wider range of foot conditions.

How Do You Know if You Need Shoe Inserts for Heel Pain?

We’ll say it again — if you’re suffering with heel pain, you should make an appointment with a podiatrist. These foot specialists will be able to examine your feet in detail and get to the bottom of what’s causing your pain. “Other than natural fatigue, heel pain can be caused by the abnormal position of the foot, malalignment, and abnormal position of the ankle and the foot,” says Dr. Ashkani-Esfahani. If you already know the cause of your heel pain, you should buy an insole suited to your condition. 

How Often Should You Wear Insoles for Heel Pain?

In short, you’re cleared to wear your insoles on a daily basis to manage your heel pain and to help correct the underlying cause of it.

Dr. Ashkani-Esfahani says that appropriate insoles should always be worn when walking, jogging, running, and during any activity that puts weight on the feet. “Appropriate insoles can keep the feet in anatomical and natural form and support the feet and ankle against malposition-caused injuries, ankle sprains, stress-induced injuries and fractures, and also wounds and traumas, particularly in patients with reduced sensations.”

How We Selected the Best Insoles for Heel Pain

For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.

To create this round-up of the best insoles for heel pain we spoke to three experts, including a podiatrist and two foot specialists. We also spent hours researching into the market to find out which brands were the most popular and effective, while taking into consideration hundreds of online reviews. As our writer also suffers with heels pain and plantar fasciitis, we also have included brands she’s tested herself. Learn more about us here.

Meet the Experts

Dr. Soheil Ashkani-Esfahani, MD, is a Principal Investigator, Director of FARIL at Massachusetts General Hospital, and Faculty of Orthopaedic Surgery at Harvard Medical School. 

Dr. Liza Egbogah is one of North America’s leading fascia and posture experts. She is also the designer and founder of Dr. Liza shoes, a fashionable line of orthopedic shoes. She’s also a manual osteopath, chiropractor, myofascial release therapist, and guest lecturer at OCAD university. She has a Doctor of Chiropractic, graduating with Summa Cum Laude and clinic honors from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, a diploma in manual osteopathic practice and also holds a Pharmacology degree with distinction from the University of Alberta. Dr. Liza is an award winning manual therapy expert, media contributor, speaker, human centered designer and a member of Harvard’s post graduate association.

Joanne Atkinson is a foot specialist owner of ifoothealthcare, who has over 30 years of experience in the foot care industry.

Meet the Author

Cat Hufton is a London-based journalist who has written for some of the world’s best luxury e-commerce companies and publications, including WWD, InStyle, Harper’s Bazaar, Byrdie. Hufton is an avid online shopper and has tested hundreds of products during her career giving her a keen eye for what’s worth your hard-earned dollars and what’s not. Hufton wrote this story on the best insoles for heel pain using her extensive knowledge in the space.

Anyone who suffers from plantar fasciitis knows it’s an incredibly painful foot condition that can hold you back from daily activities and exercise. Finding the best insoles for plantar fasciitis can alleviate pain and discomfort and get you feeling better and back to your regular routine. Shoes for plantar fasciitis are always a good option, but having a pair of insoles that you can slip in and out of different shoes is convenient and cost-effective.

According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, one in every ten Americans suffer from plantar fasciitis, which is inflammation of the fibrous band of tissue (known as fascia) connecting the heel bone to the base of your toes. Pain usually starts gradually and builds over time if not treated. Symptoms include pain and stiffness in the heel and bottom of the foot, which often worsen in the morning or after sitting for a long time. Left untreated, it could turn into a chronic condition that leads to symptoms in the foot, knee, hip and back.

Proper footwear is critical for relieving and preventing plantar fasciitis pain, and inappropriate shoes, like flip flops or high heels, can exacerbate pain. A study published in the National Library of Medicine showed that study participants experienced more severe heel pain due to inappropriate shoes that had thin soles with minimal heel height, as well as shoes with hard insoles and no built-in arch support. Minnesota-based podiatrist Dr. Paul Langer, DPM says firm, arch-supporting insoles are your friend. Firm insoles relieve strain on the plantar fascia better than soft, flexible alternatives. “I always explain to my patients that plantar fasciitis is not an impact problem, it’s a strain problem,” Dr. Langer says. “The plantar fascia does not get injured when the heel hits the ground; it gets injured as the strain through the plantar fascia increases as the heel lifts. So, supporting the arch is more beneficial than just cushioning the heel.” 

Insoles are a convenient way to add extra support and pain relief to your most comfortable shoes, including walking shoes for plantar fasciitis and running shoes for plantar fasciitis. Types of insoles can range from small heel cups to full footbed inserts, and there are also options for specific activities, including running insoles or hiking insoles. Many plantar fasciitis insoles have customizable features that mold to your feet or allow you to trim the insole for a perfect, squeak-free fit. It’s important to note that more severe cases of plantar fasciitis may require a custom orthotic, but there are plenty of over-the-counter insoles that work wonders for early or mild stages of this condition.

With product testing, extensive market research, and the help of Dr. Langer and New York City podiatrist Dr. Jacqueline Sutera, we compiled this list of top plantar fasciitis insoles that cater to a variety of foot types and shoe styles. These selections will provide the relief you’re looking for.

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Best Heel Cups for Plantar Fasciitis

Heel That Pain Heel Seats

Size range: Women’s 5 to 13; men’s 5 to 15
Materials: Non-toxic rubber blend
Pros: Multiple firmness levels, doctor designed
Cons: Doesn’t provide full foot support
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

$30 Buy Now At Amazon

Sometimes a simple heel cup is all you need to relieve the pain of plantar fasciitis. If you’re going the heel cup route, consider the Heel Seats from Heel That Pain. The firm rubber shoe insert provides acupressure around the heel for added support and stabilization. And the doctor-designed cups have a built-in fascia bar that keeps your feet aligned for good support and posture. You can choose from three different firmness levels, so you can find just the right support for your needs. And because they are not full size inserts, the heel cups will fit in a lot of different shoe styles. 
 
What testers say: “These heel pads are a lifesaver. I had immediate pain relief after inserting the heel pads.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $30

Best Arch Support Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis

SuperFeet Unisex Green Insoles

Size range: Women’s 4.5 to 12; Men’s 5.5 to 17
Materials: High-density foam
Pros: Solid arch support, anti-odor, can be trimmed
Cons: More expensive than other options
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

On Sale 16% off

$46 Buy Now At Amazon

If you have high arches, you’ll likely need extra support in addition to plantar fasciitis pain relief. The Superfeet brand is well known for a variety of insole options that treat different foot conditions, and the Green Insoles will do the trick for your high arches. These insoles check all the boxes podiatrists recommend to help plantar fasciitis: a high arch insole, deep heel cup to stabilize the feet, foam layer for comfort, and a cap on the base for structure and stability. Plus, they’re made with a natural, anti-odor and anti-bacterial material to keep them smelling fresh. You can also trim the insoles for a perfect fit in any pair of arch-support shoes.

What testers say: “Originally prescribed by my Dr. They are cheaper on Amazon and I love them! Never knew I needed arch support but they keep my feet from getting sore!”

Price upon publish date of this article: $46

Best Running Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis

Powerstep Pinnacle Breeze

Size range: Women’s 5 to 12; men’s 4 to 15
Materials: Foam, mesh
Pros: Mesh top layer for air flow and odor control
Cons: Can wear out quickly with heavy use
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

$45 Buy Now At Amazon

$55 Buy Now At Powerstep

If you run regularly for exercise, plantar fasciitis can sideline you fast. The Powerstep Pinnacle Breeze insoles give you the support and stability you need to keep adding miles. They offer the perfect combination of semi-rigid arch support for motion control with dual-layer shock absorption cushioning that provides energy return for both low- and high-impact movement. And these insoles help with other common runner ailments like Achilles tendonitis and shin splints. These get bonus points as the best insoles for running thanks to their ventilated mesh top fabric to keep feet sweat- and odor-free. This feature also massages the foot with each step, no matter if you’re wearing cushioned running shoes or stability running shoes.

What testers say: “Love these inserts! Just as comfortable (if not more) than the custom orthotics I got from a podiatrist years ago. And at a fraction of the cost.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $45

Best Insoles for Flat Feet and Plantar Fasciitis

Walk Hero Plantar Fasciitis Insoles

Size range: Women’s 6 to 14; men’s 4 to 16
Materials: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate
Pros: Inexpensive, fits a variety of shoes, supports proper alignment
Cons: May not last as long as more expensive options
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

On Sale 56% off

$11 Buy Now At Amazon

$15 Buy Now At Walk Hero

These Walk Hero insoles can be placed in just about any shoe, providing the perfect balance between comfort and support. If you have flat feet, the molded arch support keeps your feet aligned and helps prevent pronation that can put strain on your joints. The deep heel cup also helps maintain correct foot positioning and protects the heel during heavy impact from walking or running. A silicone pad embedded in the heel relieves pressure, and the high-density foam absorbs shock and provides a bit of energy return for a more efficient run. These insoles can fit a variety of shoe types, and they’re inexpensive enough for you to buy separate pairs for all your shoes.

What testers say: “In a couple of months, I’ve gone from only being able to hobble short distances painfully to being able to hike several miles again.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $11

Best Hiking Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis

SuperFeet Hike Cushion Insoles

Size Range: Women’s 4.5 to 14; men’s 5.5 to 13
Materials: Foam, moisture-wicking fabric
Pros: Moisture-wicking, can be trimmed, heel cushion reduces foot fatigue
Cons: Could slip or cause blisters if not trimmed accurately
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

On Sale 25% off

$41 Buy Now At Amazon

$55 Buy Now At Superfeet

Hiking can take a toll on your feet if you don’t have the proper footwear. And if you suffer from plantar fasciitis, it can be even harder to enjoy the outdoors. These Hike Cushion insoles from trusted brand SuperFeet are specifically made to fit any outdoor shoes, like hiking boots for men and women. They’re made with Adaptive Comfort technology that flexes with your foot as it moves, and they have an energizing heel cushion that reduces fatigue. The forefoot has an embedded responsive zone that provides a bit of rebound to add a spring to your step. A durable construction means they’ll last longer than many other over-the-counter insoles, and moisture-wicking materials reduce odor.

What testers say: “The Hike insoles work excellent. I have hiked two 13 mile hikes and a 17 mile grand canyon hike with no sore feet. You won’t be disappointed. They’re well worth it.” 

Price upon publish date of this article: $41

Dr. Scholl’s Plantar Fasciitis Orthotics

Size range: Women’s 6 to 10; men’s 8 to 13
Materials: Memory foam
Pros: Very inexpensive, can be trimmed
Cons: Arch support may be too high for some
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

$14 Buy Now At Amazon

For under $15, you can’t beat the price of Dr. Scholl’s Plantar Fasciitis Orthotics for pain relief of mild to moderate plantar fasciitis. They provide a special gel-like cushion in the heel that brings instant relief with no break-in time necessary. The built-in arch support prevents the plantar fascia from stretching further and causing more pain and discomfort. These also feature a contoured, deep heel cup, which is recommended by various podiatrists for keeping the heel stable. Since these are full length inserts, they provide cushioning across the entire bottom of the foot and distribute pressure with each step.

What reviewers say: “The first thing that struck me about these inserts is the instant relief they provide. From the moment I slipped them into my shoes, I could feel the targeted support they offer to my arch and heel. It’s like they cradle your foot in comfort, reducing the painful pressure associated with plantar fasciitis.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $14

Best Work Boot Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis

Walkomfy Heavy Duty Support Orthotics

Size Range: Women’s 6 to 15.5; men’s 4 to 13.5
Materials: Memory foam, thermoplastic polyurethane
Pros: Rigid arch support, extra thick cushioning
Cons: May be too thick for some shoes, the rigid arch support may be too hard for some users
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If you spend long hours on your feet all day in work boots, you need a pair of plantar fasciitis inserts that are durable and go the distance. The Heavy Duty Support insoles have extra strong arch support and shock guard technology that reduces leg fatigue and low back pain. A deep heel cup along with the rigid arch support keep your feet in alignment to equally distribute load when walking or standing all day. For plenty of cushiony support, these best boot insoles for plantar fasciitis are made with a combination of memory foam and EVA foam. The top layer is made of heat- and friction-reducing fabric to keep feet cool, dry, and blister-free. And these work boot insoles can support users over 210 pounds.

What testers say: “Great support, even on my job of standing on concrete all day and walking! I plan to buy two more!”

Price upon publish date of this article: $32

Best Insoles for Heel Spurs and Plantar Fasciitis

Footlogics Plantar Fasciitis Insoles

Size Range: Women’s 5.5 to 13; men’s 4 to 14
Materials: EVA foam
Pros: Deep, cushioned heel cup, can be trimmed, exercise booklet included
Cons: The heel support has a hard edge that may be uncomfortable for some
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Plantar fasciitis in combination with heel spurs (built-up calcium deposits on the bottom of the heel bone) can make for discomfort and pain that hinders your normal daily routine. A pair of shoe insoles that address both issues is important for pain relief. These Footlogics insoles, designed by podiatrists, offer plenty of arch support for plantar fasciitis as well as a deep, cushioned heel cup to relieve pressure on bone spurs. They’re lightweight and trimmable so they can be used in a variety of shoe styles. And they even come with a booklet of plantar fasciitis stretches and exercises to help relieve the condition.

What testers say: “Wow!! I can’t believe the difference these orthotics have made. I have a heel spur as well as Plantar fasciitis. Just going for a simple healthy walk was something I struggled with. I have tried customized orthotics as well as other off the shelf brands, but these Footlogics are by far the best.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $34

Spenco Total Support Max Shoe Inserts

Size range: Women’s 5 to 12.5; men’s 6 to 17.5
Materials: Polyester
Pros: POD system reduces overpronation
Cons: Very rigid support may take some getting used to
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The most notable benefit of Spenco’s Total Support Max shoe inserts is that they offload weight from the ball of the foot, equalizing weight distribution. Over time, this trains your body’s alignment and walking patterns and can reverse the symptoms of plantar fasciitis. These insoles are made with a 3-pod modulation system that places pressure on key areas of the foot to encourage more natural strides and reduce overpronation. As Dr. Langer noted, it’s important to go for a firm design to shift your body’s weight when walking, and these feature an extra-rigid cradle to promote proper arch placement. They might take a bit to get used to, but you should be able to break them in in no time, and feel the pain of plantar fasciitis disappear.

What testers say: “Recommended by my podiatrist. I have bunions on both feet. These inserts feel great.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $45

Do Insoles Help Plantar Fasciitis?

Insoles designed for plantar fasciitis help by supporting the arch and keeping the foot in alignment. They cushion the heel and redistribute weight so there’s less strain on the arch, which helps reduce symptoms with consistent wear. Many people like to go barefoot at home, but it’s important to wear supportive shoes with good insoles or slippers for plantar fasciitis at all times so you take the pressure off your plantar fascia. Plantar fasciitis symptoms can take a long time to resolve and can continue to flare up if you’re not careful and vigilant about treatment.

Keep in mind that just like when shoes get worn out, worn insoles can do more harm than good. In fact, Dr. Sutera notes it’s crucial to replace your insoles if they’re worn out. On average, she says insoles should be replaced every 12 to 18 months. But, “look for signs of wear such as peeling, flattening, or holes,” she explains, “which could mean it’s time to replace them sooner.”

What to Look for in the Best Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis

When shopping for over-the-counter insoles for plantar fasciitis, Dr. Sutera says to look for a deep heel cup, arch support and a thicker cushioned sole. “These help to reduce inflammation and pain by neutralizing your arch and decreasing overpronation, all while offering support and cushion,” she says.

• Arch support: It’s important to choose insoles with molded arch support. As Dr. Langer mentions, rigid insoles relieve tension in the fascia to help it heal. The arch needs to be supported, not just cushioned. Make sure that you select insoles that are as close to your shoe size as possible, even if they can be trimmed, so the arch support hits in the right spot. Also be aware of the size of the arch support. If you have flat feet, an insole with a very high arch is going to hurt and probably cause even more problems.
• Deep heel cup: This feature sculpts to your heel to provide rearfoot support. The heel cup should be stiff in order to squeeze the fat pad on the heel and take some of the pressure off with each step. Some insoles have gel pads or extra foam in the heel to help with cushioning. 
• Cushioning: A sturdy insole provides the support you need, but that doesn’t mean it can’t feel comfortable, too. Look for insoles that have a foam or gel layer on top of a more rigid supportive arch and heel cup. The cushioning should provide padding, but it shouldn’t be so soft that it creates instability. Some insoles even have features like sweat-wicking materials to make them more comfortable in a variety of weather conditions and during intense activity.

The Best Plantar Fasciitis Insoles for Different Foot Types and Conditions

• Best insoles for plantar fasciitis and flat feet: If you have flat feet and suffer from plantar fasciitis, you’ll want to look for insoles with a slightly more flexible arch support. Arch support that’s too rigid or high will cause more pain and pressure. Look for insoles with a deep heel cup, which will keep your feet aligned and minimize pronation.
• Best arch support insoles for plantar fasciitis: Any insoles designed to alleviate the pain of plantar fasciitis should have good arch support. The type of support you need can depend on what activities you’re doing, the type of shoes you’re wearing, and your level of discomfort. Arch support can be low-, mid-, or high-level and range from flexible to rigid. Those with high arches should consider supination insoles, which provide a high level of support in the midfoot.
• Best insoles for heel spurs and plantar fasciitis: Heel spurs can often develop as a result of plantar fasciitis, so treating plantar fasciitis with a solid, supportive insole will help. Insoles with an extra cushioning pad in the heel will provide pain relief and reduce pressure on the heel spur.  
• Best insoles for Morton’s neuroma and plantar fasciitis: Plantar fasciitis and Morton’s neuroma can be a painful combination. Morton’s neuroma is an aggravation of the nerve in your forefoot and causes pain in the ball of your foot and toes. Insoles that have additional padding around the forefoot area can support the bones of the toes and help with toe splay to relieve irritation of the nerve.

How We Chose the Best Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis

For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.

To select the best insoles for plantar fasciitis, we consulted podiatrists to understand the needs of someone suffering with plantar fasciitis and how insoles can help with treatment and pain relief. Our experts also advised us on what specific features to look for when shopping for insoles, whether just for plantar fasciitis, or a combination of foot conditions that can contribute to plantar fasciitis. We then researched products from well-known brands in the foot care industry. We looked for products that fit a specific need, such as insoles for hiking or insoles for work boots. We reviewed product details and looked for positive customer reviews. We included products that have good ratings and include features like strong arch support and deep heel cups. Learn more about us here.

Meet the Experts

Dr. Paul Langer, DPM, is Minnesota-based podiatrist who specializes in sports medicine, foot disorders, and biomechanics. He has served on the medical staff of international athletic events including the Boston Marathon and is a clinical advisor for the American Running Association.

 Dr. Jacqueline Sutera is a New York City-based podiatrist who specializes in a holistic approach to women’s foot care. She works with patients to help them understand how podiatric issues can impact their overall health.

Meet the Author

Jen Zeltwanger is a certified exercise physiologist through the American College of Sports Medicine, and a freelance writer and editor specializing in health and fitness topics and product reviews. As an avid runner, Zeltwanger knows the discomfort of plantar fasciitis first hand and how a good pair of insoles can make all the difference in recovery.