Heel Pain? Try These Editor-Tested, Podiatrist-Approved Boots for Plantar Fasciitis (2024)

• Our Picks

• Where We Stand

• What to Look For

• How We Tested

• Our Experts

• Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust Verywell Fit

Key Specs

Sizes: 5 to 11 | Colors: 11 | Materials: Leather and mesh upper, mesh lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole | APMA-Certified: No | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They’re For

Best for recreational day hikers who want a durable, waterproof boot for outdoor adventures.

Why We Love Them

Keen’s Targhee III Mid Hiking Boots are our top recommendation, thanks to their exceptional arch support and cushioning that help keep plantar fasciitis at bay. During test hikes, we were impressed by the boots’ rugged, durable design. We also love that the flexible upper offered a close, comfortable fit from our first trek.

On the surface, the Targhee III is an effective, waterproof boot with deep lugs that provide plenty of grippy traction on the trail. But what sets these boots apart is their technical features, including a strap in the lacing system that wraps around the heel for stability, a sturdy ankle cuff, and an abrasion-resistant toe guard.

In testing, we were surprised by how well the Targhee III’s soft midsole supported our heels and arches. Even better, they have odor-control technology to help keep your feet fresh, even in warm weather. Highly protective and well-made, they were a clear choice for our top overall pick.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, REI, and Keen.

Potential Flaws

• While it does offer stellar support and cushioning, the Targhee III may not be padded enough for multi-day hikes with heavy packs.
  

Key Specs

Sizes: 5 to 11 | Colors: 4 | Materials: Leather and mesh upper, mesh lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole | APMA-Certified: No | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who They’re For

Best for fast hikes over rough trails in wet weather.

Why We Love Them

Salomon’s X Ultra 4 Mid GTX Hiking Boots are ready to tackle all types of weather and terrain, thanks to their reliable waterproofing and ultra-grippy soles. During testing, we noticed that the boots’ excellent support and comfort fends off plantar fasciitis pain, without feeling too heavy or stiff. We also like that they’re designed with shock-absorbing foam and an OrthoLite insole that molds to your feet for a custom-like fit.

When testing these boots, we found them to be fairly flexible, but still very supportive in the arch area. The Gore-Tex membrane and gusseted tongue effectively block water and debris from getting in. Meanwhile, the durable rubber sole delivered reliable grip on wet, dry, hard, and loose surfaces, while also offering control on tricky descents during testing. We were also impressed with the boots’ roomy toe box that let our toes naturally splay out, for extra stability and comfort.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, REI, and Salomon.

Potential Flaws

• Although the boots are breathable, we did notice that the highly effective waterproofing can make feet a bit sweaty during very hot hikes.
  

Key Specs

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Colors: 17 | Materials: Leather and suede upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | APMA-Certified: No | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who They’re For

Best for light hiking or casual wear.

Why We Love Them

On a budget? You don’t have to sacrifice quality, comfort, or support with Columbia’s Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot. They boast plenty of cushioning and stability right where you need it most, while still maintaining a lightweight feel. When we tested them on the trail, we noticed the insole felt supportive and highly cushioned, for combatting plantar fasciitis and foot fatigue.

We were also impressed by the Newton’s waterproof, seam-sealed construction—a feature that’s not often seen at this budget-friendly price. With a grippy, rubber sole, they performed well on technical trails, as well as wet and dry surfaces. We also love that they come in more than a dozen neutral and fun colors, so you can choose a pair that speaks to your individual style.

Also available in men’s sizes at Dick’s Sporting Goods and Columbia.

Potential Flaws

• During testing, the toe box didn’t feel as spacious as we’d like. But they do come in wide sizes for those who prefer a roomier fit.
• While the lightweight, flexible feel makes this pair perfect for day hikes, sightseeing, or casual wear, they’re not the best choice for carrying heavy pack loads.
  

Key Specs

Sizes: 7 to 14 | Colors: 6 | Materials: Leather and textile mesh upper, mesh lining, foam midsole, rubber sole | APMA-Certified: No | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best for hikers with heel pain who need a rugged boot with great support.

Why We Love Them

A favorite among hikers, Merrell’s Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot takes our most durable spot because of its comfort, support, and stability. During test hikes, we were impressed with the shoe’s solid construction and durability. With a padded, but flexible, collar and a molded arch in the midsole for support, they felt comfortable right away. The Moab 3’s heel is also elevated and extremely shock-absorbent—which is especially beneficial for plantar fasciitis.

Like some of our other top picks, these boots are waterproof, but they’re still breathable enough that your feet won’t overheat. We love that the thick tongue is also designed to keep out dirt, moisture, and debris, while a rubber toe cap provides additional protection in front. Plus, the rubber sole has 5-millimeter lugs that deliver great traction—even while hiking on steep dirt trails, we found that these boots kept us feeling steady and sure-footed. With a full-grain leather upper, the Moab 3 is both tough and easy to wear, making it the most durable boot we tested.

Also available in women’s sizes at Amazon, REI, and Merrell.

Potential Flaws

• During testing, we noticed that these boots run wide, which may be an issue if you have narrow feet.
  

Key Specs

Sizes: 7 to 13 | Colors: 3 | Materials: Leather and fabric upper, nylon mesh lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole | APMA-Certified: No | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5

Who They’re For

Best for outdoor enthusiasts who need a sturdy, supportive hiking boot that can handle tough conditions.

Why We Love Them

For hiking, we recommend swapping your walking shoes for sturdy boots with reliable traction, like Oboz’s Bridger Mid B-DRY Hiking Boot. During test hikes, they delivered comfort and stability without feeling too bulky or stiff. Their soft cushioning and snug heel counter work together to keep feet feeling supported while preventing plantar fasciitis pain. Plus, the boots’ insole features a well-defined arch, while a nylon shank and protective footplate protect your feet against sticks, rocks, and other debris.

We were also impressed by how this pair balances waterproofing and breathability. They effectively kept water out but also allowed sweat to escape to prevent overheated, clammy feet. And we like that the rubber outsole with 4-millimeter multidirectional lugs felt grippy and sturdy—even on slick, technical terrain.

Also available in women’s sizes at Amazon, REI, and Oboz.

Potential Flaws

• This pair is pricier than some of the other hiking boots on our list, but we think they’re worth the investment for their exceptional support and comfort.
• We like that these boots come in wide sizes, for a more precise fit. However, they do tend to run small, so we recommend ordering one size up from your usual.
  

Key Specs

Sizes: 5 to 11 | Colors: 5 | Materials: Mesh and recycled yarn upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | APMA-Certified: Yes | Our Overall Rating: 4.3/5

Who They’re For

Best for hikers who also occasionally run on the trails.

Why We Love Them

Hoka brings the comfy, lightweight feel of their popular running shoes to a hiking boot with the Anacapa Breeze Mid Hiking Boot. With plush cushioning and solid arch support, these shoes are designed to help keep your plantar fasciitis at bay. In testing, we were surprised by how soft the midsole felt, keeping our feet pain-free for the duration of each trek. Plus, the Anacapa Breeze is lightweight, flexible, and breathable enough that they’re suitable for both hiking and trail running.

We were also impressed with this pair’s thick, grippy outsole, which performed well on slippery and rocky surfaces. These durable, AMPA-approved boots also have a wide base for better balance and a roomy toe box for great stability. The high heel counter and large pull tab, as well as the three sets of lace hooks, made it extremely easy to get these shoes on and off—a huge plus for hiking boots that set these apart during testing.

Also available in men’s sizes at Dick’s Sporting Goods and Hoka.

Potential Flaws

• Although this pair’s lightweight feel helped keep us nimble on the trails, the upper material isn’t waterproof, and it’s on the thinner side. This means the Anacapa may not be as protective as some other boots on our list, like our picks from Merrell and Keen.
• During testing, we noticed that the larger heel felt a little thick and bulky.
  

Key Specs

Sizes: 6 to 11 | Colors: 1 | Materials: Leather upper, leather and textile lining and footbed, rubber outsole | APMA-Certified: No | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best for stomping through wet, muddy conditions.

Why We Love Them

For walking or working in wet weather, it’s tough to beat the protection, durability, and comfort you get from L.L.Bean’s Bean Boots. This tried and true, duck boot hybrid features a flexible, comfortable sole and a steel midsole shank for lateral and arch support, making them a smart choice for anyone prone to plantar fasciitis. During testing, our feet remained pain-free, even after a full day of wear. With a versatile style and the easy comfort of an everyday shoe, we found ourselves reaching for these boots for everything from hiking to casual wear.

The durable rubber outsoles delivered exceptional traction in a variety of conditions, and we love that the waterproofing kept our feet completely dry in wet weather. We also appreciated that these boots were easy to clean—all we had to do was hose them down. Designed with a classic silhouette, the Bean Boot has a lace-up closure and comes in three different widths, so finding the right fit is simple.

Also available in men’s sizes at L.L.Bean.

Potential Flaws

• Although we didn’t have any issues with the attached tongue, we think it might make it harder for some wearers to get these boots on. We found that the tongue helped keep out water, so we think it’s worth any added hassle.
  

Key Specs

Sizes: 6 to 11 | Colors: 4 | Materials: Leather upper, leather and canvas lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole | APMA-Certified: Yes | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They’re For

Best sleek, everyday boot for rainy or snowy weather.

Why We Love Them

For walking in cold, wet weather, Chaco's Fields Chelsea Waterproof Boot is our top pick. When testing this pair, we were impressed by the midsole’s high, firm arch support. One of our testers with a history of plantar fasciitis wore them to work and was pleasantly surprised that her heels didn’t ache at the end of the day, as they often do in other shoes.

The boots’ rubber outsole has deep, 7-millimeter lugs that delivered reliable traction during testing. Its well-made design and reliable waterproofing make this APMA-approved boot a great option for walking in the rain and snow. We also like the elastic sides, which provide a comfortable, secure fit and make it easy to slip the Fields Boot on and off.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon and Chaco.

Potential Flaws

• Since they’re built to be durable in bad weather, these boots feel heavier and chunkier than some other boots we tested. However, we still found that they were very comfortable to walk in all day long.
• We wish they came in more than one width, for people with wide or narrow feet.
  

Key Specs

Sizes: 5 to 11 | Colors: 3 | Materials: Leather and synthetic upper, textile lining and insole, synthetic outsole | APMA-Certified: Yes

Who They’re For

Best for casual events, from the office to brunch to happy hour.

Why We Love Them

Vionic’s Shantelle Boot proves that you don’t have to sacrifice style to get the right support and protection for plantar fasciitis. Like many of Vionic’s shoes, this sleek pair is APMA-approved for its foot-friendly design. It has excellent arch support for all-day comfort, as well as an eye-catching style that pairs nicely with jeans or dress pants.

We like that the small heel gives the boots a chic feel without sacrificing comfort or support. Plus, with a waterproof upper and a durable rubber outsole, these boots can handle wet, slippery, or uneven surfaces with ease. A side zipper makes getting them on and off a breeze. We also like that the Shantelle Boot is available in wide sizes, so you can find the right fit.

Potential Flaws

• Some wearers note that the top of the boot feels stiff at first. But after a few wears, most people find that the upper softens up.

Key Specs

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Colors: 2 | Materials: Fabric lining, foam cushioning, rubber sole | APMA-Certified: Yes

Who They’re For

Best for anyone on an endless hunt for supportive boots that actually feel great on.

Why We Love Them

Available in three widths, Orthofeet’s Delta Boots are our favorite boots for plantar fasciitis with customizable support. Your purchase includes orthotic insoles with adjustable arch support that alleviate strain on your plantar fascia. The full-length, layered foam midsole features additional padding in the heel area, for a comfortable feel that cuts down on muscle fatigue.

The Delta’s wide toe box allows your toes to spread, preventing blisters, bunions, hammertoes, or swollen feet. We also like the mild rocker design, which helps propel you forward with each step. Although we haven’t tested this pair for ourselves, it’s worth noting that it comes with the American Podiatric Medical Association's (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, meaning a committee of podiatrists has determined that the Delta Boots help promote healthy feet.

Potential Flaws

• The outsoles lack deep lugs, meaning these boots have less traction than some of our other picks do.
  

Key Specs

Sizes: 5 to 11 | Colors: 1 | Materials: Leather upper, memory foam footbed, rubber outsole | APMA-Certified: Yes

Who They’re For

Best for anyone who wants a dressier boot that’s comfortable enough to wear for long periods, especially if you have wide calves.

Why We Love Them

Aetrex’s Vera Arch Support Riding Boot is our favorite tall boot that’s both stylish and offers all-day protection against plantar fasciitis pain. It features a supportive arch that promotes proper alignment and an elevated heel that helps take the pressure off of your plantar fascia. Plus, it’s earned the APMA Seal of Acceptance, so you can be confident they’ll provide plenty of relief.

The boots’ insoles are well-cushioned for extra comfort and pressure relief. Meanwhile, the back panel features a stretchy, breathable material that can accommodate wider calves for a just-right fit. The soft, leather upper has an elegant look and a comfortable feel, for a boot you can wear out to dinner, to the office, and everywhere in between.

Potential Flaws

• Compared to other boots included in our list, the Vera is pricier, although the cost is on par with other tall leather boots.

Key Specs

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Colors: 2 | Materials: Synthetic upper, foam midsole, rubber sole | APMA-Certified: Yes

Who They're For

Best for anyone who needs a warm, weather-resistant boot for shoveling snow or walking the dog in wintry conditions.

Why We Love Them

When the weather turns cold and snowy, we recommend reaching for Orthofeet’s Alps Waterproof Boots for equal protection from the elements and plantar fasciitis pain. Designed with orthotic insoles that have anatomical arch support, this pair promotes better alignment to ease pain in your feet and heels. Plus, the ergonomic, cushioned sole softens impact and relieves pressure in your heel. We also like that this pair has a mild rocker design that adds a spring to your step and helps reduce fatigue.

Along with protection from plantar fasciitis, these boots will keep your feet warm and dry in harsh weather, thanks to the waterproof upper, gusseted tongue, and sealed seams. These APMA-approved boots also feature a spacious toe box that prevents blisters while alleviating pressure on bunions and hammertoes. Plus, they’re available in three widths, if you need even more room. And with a side zipper and classic laces, they’re a cinch to get on and off.

Potential Flaws

• The slip-resistant rubber outsole isn’t as grippy as some of the hiking books we’ve tested. But it’s still enough to keep you steady on your feet in wet or icy conditions.
  

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