Do you know it is possible to be as adventurous as you like with hiking, even if you are struggling with plantar fasciitis? Yes, we are not kidding. It is actually possible.
Now, you must be thinking about what actually can make the two things combine. The answer is simple – a good pair of hiking boots can make all the difference needed. With the great support, comfort and arch support of the shoes, you are less likely to face any problems of plantar fasciitis during hiking.
There are lots of people who face difficulties in choosing the best suitable hiking boots for plantar fasciitis. Are you one of them?
If yes, then this article will introduce you to some of the best hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis which can bring relief.
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How to Choose the Best Hiking Boots/Shoes for plantar fasciitis in 2023?
If you are having a hard time to choose the suitable hiking boots for plantar fasciitis, then keep these points in your mind and make the right decision.
Comfort:
If you are planning to experience the fun of hiking adventure along with your problem of plantar fasciitis, then comfort is the most important thing that you should keep in mind. If your shoes are not comfortable, neither will you enjoy hiking nor will you get any relief against the heel pain.
Be sure that your chosen hiking boots offer you the perfect fit along with these features:
- Softness
- Padded cushioning
- Arch support
- Flexible sole, etc.
Shock absorption:
Hiking is one experience where you might have to experience a lot many whole different things. Thus, absorbing the shocks while running and hiking should be one of the prime concerns of the hiking boots for plantar fasciitis.
A soft insole can work the best for reducing the heel pain as well as balancing the shocks, which may occur, during hiking.
Arch support:
If you have plantar fasciitis and still want to try hiking, then investing in a hiking boot with great arch support should top your priority list. Having perfect arch support in the shoes not just only offer the required support to the users but it also reduces the heel pain to the maximum level.
Your hiking adventure can get spoiled with the fascia tension but if you have perfect arch supportive hiking boots, then it won’t be a problem. Isn’t it something that you would want to have in your hiking boot for plantar fasciitis?
Material and built quality:
The life expectancy of your chosen hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis also depends on the material and built quality. If the material of the shoes is not good enough, your shoes won’t last long and won’t be durable.
If you are not sure of what material to choose for your hiking boots for plantar fasciitis, then here are some of the preferred materials for the boots:
- Leather
- Memory foam
- Mesh fabric, etc.
Safety and protection:
You cannot attain the ultimate fun during any of the adventurous sports including hiking if your chosen hiking boots for plantar fasciitis are not safe. Generally, most of the well-known and popular brands take care to include the safety features in their creation but you should also take care of the same from your end as well.
Carefully observe your chosen shoe to be sure that its design, insole, outsole, etc. are designed in such a way to offer you the maximum protection.
Flexibility:
The plantar fasciitis hiking shoes should be so that they offer the maximum flexibility to the users. Remember, you are buying the shoes for getting the ease of movements during hiking, therefore your chosen shoe should offer the same to you.
Also, having the required flexibility will ensure the users to get an upper hand against the problem of plantar fasciitis. Flexibility ensures that you will not have to face any hassles while wearing the shoes even for the entire day.
Solid design and cushioning:
Ignoring the design and cushioning feature in your hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis can sometimes become a serious issue. You must be aware that plantar fasciitis causes extreme pain and discomfort when your feet are not given the needed support and protection.
How do you expect this to happen? Only by choosing the hiking boot with solid design and cushioning support. The cushioning support will make sure that your feet are in safe condition all through the hiking adventures.
Waterproof and slip resistance:
Though, not many people would consider these to be essential factors when choosing the suitable hiking boots for plantar fasciitis but eventually these are quite essential ones. Hiking is one adventurous activity which requires you to travel through different varieties of terrains, isn’t it?
But, if your chosen shoe is not waterproof and slip resistant, would you be able to enjoy thoroughly?
The answer would surely be a No. A hiking boot which is waterproof and slip resistant will allow the users to climb, run and walk through any type of terrain without any hassles.
Best Men’s & Women’s Hiking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis 2023
Timberland Men’s White Ledge Mid Waterproof Ankle Boot:
Features:
- Waterproof design
- Flexible and breathable
- Durable and perfect for all weather
- Removable EVA footbed
- Multi-directional lugs
- Effective ankle protection
- Full-grain high-quality leather
This white ledge waterproof boots from Timberland is surely one of the best hiking boots for plantar fasciitis. These boots for men offer the complete protection from water crossings and rain along with ultimate style and thus are the all-time best-seller in the market.
The most important thing that one desires during hiking is support and comfort and the users can get the same in the best quality. These shoes are made with full-grain waterproof leather which is durable and never fails to deliver maximum comfort.
Thanks to the integrated BSFP support, the users can easily climb, accelerate and brake effortlessly and seamlessly during hiking. Also, the dual density perforated EVA footbed ensures to keep your heels cool at all times, which is again quite essential during hiking. It has a fancy lacing system for getting a customized fit and this makes these boots perfect for the outdoor activity.
Now coming to the feature of effective waterproofing, the shoes scores full marks in that domain as well. These boots are either equipped with seam-sealed waterproof construction or have an internal waterproof and breathable membrane, which keeps the feet dry and odor-free in all weather conditions.
The users can also get the benefits of a padded collar and tongue for superb ankle protection along with multi-directional lugs for offering improved traction. These boots allow your foot to settle in the natural position with every step you take.
Salomon Men’s Quest 4D 2 GTX Lightweight and Durable Leather-Canvas Hiking Boots:
Features:
- Motion efficiency and superb traction
- Unique design
- Great grip, stability, durability
- Light on the feet with cushion padding
There can be no better design than this Salomon men’s quest, if you are in need of a premium quality hiking boots which are accompanied with durability, comfort, stability, and style. Well, after mentioning so much, let us look at the other benefits that this plantar fasciitis hiking boot can offer.
To begin with, this boot combines synthetic, textile and leather in the perfect balance and thus offers the best qualities of all the materials in a single package. Now, you can only imagine the level of comfort and support that you will be getting from these boots. Along with support and comfort, these boots also includes the benefits of Salomon 4D chassis for stability which is well needed with hiking.
Thanks to the GORE-TEX waterproof design of these boots, they can keep your feet dry and breathable in all the weather conditions. These boots also feature a shaft 6″ from arch for hikers who are looking for a boot which offers maximum stability to their ankles. The 4-layers of dynamic cushioning will never allow your feet to become weary.
To mix the style and protection of this boot, it is well-combined with a protective toe cap and rugged lacing. As hiking requires you to be stable on all types of terrains, these boots are designed in accordance with that. They come with an updated Contragrip sole for getting great traction.
KEEN Women’s Targhee II Hiking Shoe:
Features:
- Durable design and abrasion resistant
- Offers maximum traction for all types of motion
- Dual mold EVA midsoles
- Waterproof design with KEEN dry technology
- Breathable, comfortable and protective
KEEN Targhee is one of the most amazing hiking boots for women dealing with plantar fasciitis. It offers extreme comfort to its users throughout the day along with being versatile in its design for being supportive in the outdoor activities.
It comes in leather material accompanied with a rubber sole, 1.5″ heel, 4.5″ of arch support and a protective toe cap. This means that you not only will get extreme comfort but will also get the necessary safety precautions with these shoes. The shaft is measured around 3″ from the arch for effective ankle support.
Thanks to the waterproof membrane available in this shoe, you can use it for all weather conditions while keeping your feet dry and cool. These hiking boots also combine hydrophobic mesh with Nubuck leather to ensure enough breathability for the users. And if you need uninterrupted stability during your adventures, then the multi-directional lugs of these shoes are simply the best.
One superb benefit that you can get from this shoe is of heel lock which makes sure to reduce any unwanted stress or strain on the joints. It also uses Cleansport NXT for fighting against bad odor problem. The Torsion stability ESS shank simply makes these shoes handy for all the plantar fasciitis people who love trying hiking and other adventures.
Ahnu Women’s Montara Boot:
Features:
- Breathable and waterproof
- Durable design supported by the synthetic sole
- Available pull-on loops for easily adjustments
- Comfortable and lightweight
These boots are simply perfect for the women who love hiking and don’t want to compromise on their adventures because of plantar fasciitis. Right from the comfort, support needed to the perfect design, you will get everything in this pair of shoes.
It comes with a synthetic sole along with a shaft 5″ from the arch and a heel of 1.25″ to be the suitable footwear for its users. Its speed lacing system does not look good but it also offers a perfect and smooth fit, which indeed is a necessary requirement for hikers.
This boot also features a padded collar along with eVent technology which makes it highly breathable in all situations and conditions. This feature is quite beneficial if you are looking to wear these shoes for a long time.
Talking about its unique feature, these Ahnu boots come with pioneering numentum technology which is known to offer high stability to the users. These shoes are also made waterproof so that you can use them as and when needed without any worries. You can also be sure of getting effective protection from these shoes by its rubber toe cap protector.
Thanks to the vibrant technology used in these boots, they allow the feet to use its natural biomechanics for settling quickly and easily. These shoes are versatile yet comfortable and thus can be picked for hiking by the people with plantar fasciitis.
Timberland Women’s White Ledge Mid Ankle Boot:
Features:
- Durable
- Offers good support for plantar fasciitis
- Waterproof leather and sealed seams
- BSFP to offer maximum traction and motion efficiency
Timberland brand is one of the reliable names when it comes to getting secured and comfortable hiking boots for plantar fasciitis people. Just like the men’s model, this boot for female hikers also comes loaded with all the needed characteristics and thus becomes a desirable choice.
These boots come with a rubber sole accompanied by a shaft available at 4.5″ from arch for delivering the maximum support and comfort to the users. Thanks to the solid and speedy lacing system, these shoes are quick to slip in and also offer the desired perfect fit needed for hiking. Along with these features, it also comes with a good transfer for moisture to keep your feet dry and cool at all times.
These boots make the perfect companion to accompany its users on any trail conditions. It makes use of its shock-absorbing cushioning and rugged outdoor tested style to offer the maximum stability whenever needed by the users. Also, thanks to its rubber lug consoles, it is perfect to get traction on all types of terrains.
This Timberland hiking boot combines performance and style in the best possible manner. It also includes a waterproof upper section along with a padded collar and tongue for balancing the support to the user’s ankles. Last but not least, the removable dual-mold EVA footbed ensures to offer the needed comfort to the users, even when used throughout the day.
Merrell Moab Mid Waterproof:
Features:
- Sturdy design
- Great support, stability, and protection
- Breathable, water-proof and slip resistant
- Antimicrobial for being odor-free
This is another great hiking boots for plantar fasciitis which stands distinguished than the other boots because of its design and benefits offered. You will totally love the use of these boots for all your hiking needs which are very well taken care of.
To begin talking about the design of this boot, it comes with a synthetic sole, ghillie lacing, a 4″ shaft, and supportive grip. These are a whole lot of features for making an impressive design of any hiking boots for plantar fasciitis. The shoes will also complete the style quotient for your feet in the best possible manner.
Thanks to the air cushioning heel design, these plantar fasciitis boots can absorb all the shocks and can evenly distribute the pressure throughout the feet. This, undoubtedly, increases the needed comfort and stability on all types of terrains during hiking.
The other great features which come along with this boot are M select dry and M select fresh technology. By making use of these technologies, this shoe ensures to keep your feet moisture-free and odor-free in all weathers. These boots are versatile and thus can be used for other outdoor activities like biking.
The Vibram lug pattern of these hiking boots offers extreme stability for the outdoor activity. These shoes do not contain arch-bottom lugs which offer the natural flexing motion to your feet for better adjustments. Last but not least, the anatomical midsole brings the maximum relief against heel and arch pain.
Merrell Women’s Proterra Vim Sport Hiking Shoe:
Features:
- Can be used on rough terrains
- Even distribution of pressure
- EVA footframe
- Breathable and comfortable
- Antimicrobial treatment to fight against odor problem
Merrell Proterra Vim is really an attractive hiking boot for women that combine the benefits of both performance and style in equal proportions. It is one of the favorites of the users not only because of its fabulous design but also for the fact that they are reliable and long-lasting.
The 100% mesh linings available in this boot works really work in its favor and makes it one of the best hiking comfortable boots available. The high-quality leather and the synthetic sole is something that no user, who prefers hiking, can miss out in the shoes.
One unique advantage that these boots offer to its users is that of bellows tongue with which they are made. The bellows tongue makes sure to keep all the debris out of your way so that you can enjoy your adventures without any hassles and interference.
Thanks to its M-select fresh technology, these boots always smell fresh and thus fights the problem of bad odor. The users can enjoy maximum stability and durable traction, when used on any terrains, because of the M-select GRIP sole available in this shoe.
They are built with the sturdy design but also thanks to its cushioning padding, they also appear to be comfortable as well. The lacing system is also available in its top-notch possible manner so as to offer that perfect fit desired by the hikers.
Timberland Men’s Chocorua Trail Mid Waterproof:
Features:
- Breathable, waterproof
- Comfortable padding for heels and arch
- Maximum foot protection
- Unique and best hiking designs available
These are modern looking hiking boots for plantar fasciitis which will satisfy all your desires of getting stylish and comfortable boots. These boots come with a synthetic sole well-combined with full-grain waterproof leather and latex for offering sturdy support during hiking.
These shoes are designed to keep your feet dry and moisture-free under all situations and weather. You get sealed seams for water resistance which is beneficial when your outdoor adventure meets sudden raining. Along with this, the GORE-TEX membrane offers good breathability, comfort, and slip-resistance for enjoying the hiking experience in the best possible form.
This shoe also features a rubber sole and a shaft at 5″ from arch which is beneficial for those hikers who need extra stability for their ankle during hiking adventures. The boot also has a padded cushioning which allows your feet to settle with its natural positioning with every step taken.
These shoes also feature Timber-Dry™ membrane which offers breathability to the feet when worn for all day long. The EVA midsoles are lightweight and do not put any extra pressure on the feet during hiking. The shoe also comes with a solid rubber outsole with lugs to get superior traction on different types of terrain surfaces which is a must for enjoying hiking.
To complete the description of these boots, it would be nice to say that they are simple yet stylish boots available.
KEEN Men’s Targhee II Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot:
Features:
- Breathable membrane
- KEEN-DRY™ waterproof design
- Abrasion and slip resistant
- Enhanced traction lugs
- Heel locks
KEEN completely understands the fact that while enjoying hiking, the users need to take care of their plantar fasciitis problem as well and thus they have designed these shoes. These are the best hiking shoes which also offer support and comfort for plantar fasciitis.
To begin with, these shoes are made with 100% Nubuck leather which is waterproof in all the conditions and weather. The rubber sole available in these shoes is so effective that it offers the needed comfort during hiking as well as for all day long activities.
The one thing which is needed the most in hiking is comfortable fit and support and these boots are simply the best for offering both the benefits. They come with ghillie lacing system which offers the secure and perfect fit to the users.
The padded tongue and collar ensure that the shoe is offering the maximum support against the heel pain to work as a remedy for plantar fasciitis. It also features breathable lining which ensures that your feet are odor-free for the maximum time possible.
To make these shoes comfortable for being used on all types of terrains, they are made with the lugged outsole, contoured heel lock, and 4mm multi-directional lugs. These shoes will look good as well as bring the maximum relief against plantar fasciitis.
Also Know: Which are the Best Keen WorkBoots?
Columbia Men’s North Plains Trail Shoe:
Features:
- Waterproof and slip-resistance
- Lightweight and durable
- High padded cushioning
- Breathable, comfortable and supportive to heel pain
These are the hiking boots which are pretty decent in their looks but are simply awesome when it comes to combining the benefits of hiking and remedy for plantar fasciitis. These shoes are designed using 100% leather and textile which makes them an attractive side in their looks as well as a comfortable side.
The rubber sole available ensures that the users can get flexible and slip-resistant benefits while allowing the feet to fit in naturally. You definitely won’t prefer a shoe for hiking which s heavy, right? Thus, these boots are made to be lightweight and durable to ensure that the users face no problems while using them.
Thanks to the Techlite™ lightweight midsoles, these shoes offer high-quality padded cushioning support as well as high energy levels with every step you take. It also combines Suede leather and mesh lining which being breathable offers moisture-resistance and odor-resistance. Your feet will feel cool and dry, even if you wear these shoes all day long.
The stylish upper lace ensures that you get the perfect fit for enjoying your hiking experience without any interruptions.
Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boot, Breathable, High-Traction Grip:
Features:
- Stylish yet comfortable design
- Easy to maintain and clean
- Comes with all-around padding for maximum support
- Waterproof and slip-resistant
- Offers good ventilation
Talking about this hiking boot for plantar fasciitis people, it is so made that it can offer almost everything that you can desire for, from your boot. The boots from this brand always focus to offer smart value for the money by offering some of the best features to its users.
To begin with, these hiking boots are made using leather and synthetic but at the same time, they also have a rubber sole. This combination is considered to be as the best for hiking as it can offer you the needed comfort along with being durable in any condition.
To enhance the expected comfort for its users, these Columbia shoes have a full-grain waterproof leather upper along with compression molded EVA footbed. It also has a durable mesh tongue which makes this boot breathable in all conditions. The available shaft measures approximately 5.25″ from arch for the needed stability.
To make these shoes perfect for hiking, they are made with durable and comfortable midsoles and superior cushioning as well. Thanks to the high-energy and advanced traction rubber sole, this shoe offers slip-free movements to its users which ensure stability during hiking. It also features lace-up closure for getting a secure and well-fitted adjustment.
Its unique and innovative Omnishield technology makes this boot slip-resistant and water-resistant along with offering great traction wherever you step on.
Salomon Women’s X Ultra Mid 2 GTX Hiking Shoe:
Features:
- Waterproof design
- Protective toe rubber cap
- Contragrip sole
- Can be used on all types of terrains
If you are in need of such hiking boots that can offer you the perfect balance of durability, stability, and comfort, then you should go for this brand. This boot is one of those boots from the brand which offers the needed flexibility for hiking along with required support for plantar fasciitis.
One thing to notice about this hiking boot is its design. It comes in an attractive design and looks which will surely make everyone around you envious. It also features superb quality lace-up benefit for getting the perfect and secure fit during hiking.
This boot is made using 100% textile and Nubuck leather which is known to offer the maximum durability to its users. Thanks to its high traction Contragrip® sole, these boots make the perfect choice to be used on all types of terrains and for all types of trails. The sole is also slip-resistant to make sure that the users get the needed grip during their hiking adventure.
Another benefit of using these boots lies in its GORE-TEX technology with which it offers breathability and comfort to the feet of the users. You can wear this waterproof boot anywhere you want without worrying about anything.
To ensure that its users feel safe while wearing this boot, it offers a protective rubber tor cap. To complete its list of benefits, this boot comes with a gusseted tongue which offers the needed protection against debris and thus makes your adventure experience simply amazing.
Read more Best slippers for plantar fasciitis, Best flip flops for plantar fasciitis
The bottom line:
A good pair of footwear represents your personality and with plantar fasciitis, a perfectly suitable hiking boot really becomes a necessity to have. According to our recommendation, the following boot swill make the best choice:
- For men: Timberland Men’s White Ledge Mid Waterproof Ankle Boot
- For Women: KEEN Women’s Targhee II Hiking Shoe
Both these hiking boots offer the needed support for plantar fasciitis and the required comfort for an amazing hiking experience.
If you have any doubts about the hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis, then please do comment below. We will reach out to you with the best possible information.
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Dr Kristine has a Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine from New York College of Podiatric Medicine, and currently assists our team of shoe experts by fact-checking and confirming the information presented to the readers. As a podiatrist, she has previously worked with numerous athletes, working professionals, and high to low activity individuals on the impacts of a lifestyle on their feet. She has submitted many research papers on the role of the correct footwear in foot health and how to take adequate care of your feet.
Previously, she worked in a foot clinic attached to a hospital, before she decided to have a private practice in 2012. She has more than 15 years of experience in foot health and has been incredibly gracious in providing her expertise to the Wearsty team! Her patients have ranged from ordinary people ailing with foot problems regarding obesity, old age, and foot stress—to athletes, runners, and workers who have demanding routines.
