Plantar fasciitis is a condition that causes pain in the heel and bottom of the foot.
It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes, becomes inflamed or damaged.
Hiking can exacerbate this condition, as it places extra stress on the feet and can cause further damage to the plantar fascia.
Wearing appropriate footwear is crucial for people with plantar fasciitis who want to continue hiking.
The right shoes can provide the necessary support and cushioning to alleviate pain and prevent further damage to the foot.
Hiking boots designed specifically for plantar fasciitis often feature built-in arch support, shock-absorbing soles, and other features that can help reduce discomfort and increase stability on uneven terrain.
In the next section, we will discuss the criteria for choosing the best hiking boots for plantar fasciitis and provide a list of the top five products available on Amazon based on their features, benefits, and customer reviews.
Best Hiking Boots for Plantar Fasciitis
Top 5 Hiking Boots for Plantar Fasciitis
Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Vent Hiking Boot
The Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe is a high-quality shoe designed to provide comfort, support, and protection for hiking enthusiasts. With its performance suede leather and mesh upper, this shoe is both durable and breathable, keeping your feet cool and dry during long hikes.
One of the standout features of the Moab 2 is its protective rubber toe cap, which provides better protection for your toes than many other hiking shoes on the market.
The closed-cell foam tongue and breathable mesh lining help to keep out moisture and debris, while the molded nylon arch shank provides the necessary support to reduce foot fatigue and prevent injury.
The Vibram TC5+ sole is another highlight of the Moab 2, providing excellent grip and traction on a variety of terrains. The 5mm lug depth ensures that the shoe can handle even the toughest of trails with ease.
Overall, the Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe is a well-made, comfortable, and reliable hiking shoe that is sure to become a go-to for any hiking enthusiast.
While it may be a bit heavier than some other options on the market, the added protection and durability are well worth it. If you’re looking for a high-quality hiking shoe that can handle any trail, the Moab 2 is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Protective rubber toe cap provides better toe protection than most shoes
- Comfortable and breathable, even on long hikes
- Vibram TC5+ sole provides excellent grip and traction on a variety of terrains
- Well-made and durable, ensuring the shoe can handle tough trails with ease
Cons
- A bit heavy compared to some other hiking shoe options
Salomon Women’s X Ultra 3 Hiking Boot
Looking for durable and breathable hiking shoes that provide maximum traction on all terrain?
Check out the Salomon Women’s X Ultra 3 Hiking Shoes Trail Running. Designed specifically for women, these shoes are perfect for hitting the trails or for use as a solid work shoe.
They feature Descent Control Technology, making them efficient for tackling technical hikes and tough descents, as well as a protective mudguard around the base of the foot to shield your feet from muddy trails.
The EnergyCell midsole provides shock attenuation, ensuring a comfortable hiking experience.
The Graphite/Black/Beet Red color adds a stylish touch. Select your size and order today to take advantage of Amazon’s free shipping and returns policy.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable, making them suitable for long hikes or runs
- Durable construction with high-quality materials, which provides a long lifespan for the shoe
- Excellent grip and traction on various terrains, thanks to the advanced Contagrip sole technology
- Features a protective toe cap and mudguard, which helps protect the feet from rocks, roots, and debris
- Breathable design with a mesh upper that helps keep feet cool and dry during activities
Cons
- The size could be too big for some feet
Oboz Men’s Bridger Mid B-DRY Hiking Boot
The hiking boots are made of 100% leather, and the sole is made of rubber.
The boots are designed for durability, protection, and comfort on the trail, with features such as a molded rubber toe cap, a heel counter for a snug fit, and O FIT insoles that mold to the shape of the foot.
The boots are also waterproof with B-DRY technology, which allows sweat to escape while keeping moisture out.
Pros
- Comfortable fit right out of the box, with no break-in period required
- Durable construction with high-quality materials, including a leather upper and rubber sole
- Good support and stability for hiking on uneven terrain
- Waterproof and breathable with the B-DRY technology, which keeps feet dry and comfortable
- Good traction on a variety of surfaces, including wet and slippery conditions
- O FIT Insole provides a comfortable and supportive fit
Cons
- Some customers found the boots to be too heavy for their liking, especially for longer hikes
KEEN Women’s Targhee II Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
If you’re on the lookout for the perfect hiking boots, then the KEEN Women’s Targhee 2 Mid Height Waterproof should definitely be on your radar. Designed specifically for women hikers like yourself, these boots are packed with features that will keep you comfortable and supported on the trails.
First things first, let’s talk about the fabric. Made with 100% fabric, these boots are both durable and waterproof, so you can conquer any terrain without worrying about wet feet. The rubber sole provides excellent traction, giving you a firm grip even on slippery surfaces. Plus, they’re lightweight, so you won’t feel weighed down during those long hikes.
One of the standout features of the KEEN Women’s Targhee 2 Mid Height Waterproof is its wide toe box. This means your toes have plenty of room to breathe and move around, reducing the chances of discomfort or blisters. If you suffer from plantar fasciitis, these boots offer great support and cushioning to help alleviate any pain or discomfort, so you can focus on enjoying your hike.
Now, let’s address the higher tops. Yes, they might require you to wear longer socks, but think of it as an opportunity to show off your fun, colorful hiking socks! Plus, longer socks can provide an extra layer of protection against debris and bugs.
Pros
- Durable and waterproof fabric
- Excellent traction with the rubber sole
- Wide toe box for added comfort
- Great for those with plantar fasciitis
- Lightweight for long hikes
Cons
- Higher tops require longer socks
Columbia Men’s Redmond Waterproof Hiking Boot
If you’ve been on the lookout for the perfect hiking shoe that offers comfort, support, and protection, look no further than the Columbia Men’s Redmond III Mid Waterproof Hiking Shoe. Let me tell you why this shoe could be your new best friend on the trails.
First off, let’s talk about the materials used in these shoes. They’re crafted with a combination of 50% leather and 50% mesh, giving you the best of both worlds. The leather provides durability and enhances the shoe’s lifespan, while the mesh offers breathability, preventing your feet from feeling suffocated. So even on those long hikes, your feet will feel fresh and ready to conquer the next mile.
One of the standout features of the Redmond III Mid is its excellent support and comfort. The shoe is designed to provide a snug fit that cradles your feet, reducing the strain on your plantar fascia. The rubber sole adds a layer of cushioning, absorbing shock and providing a soft landing with every step. You’ll appreciate the thoughtful design when you’re navigating rocky terrains or uneven trails.
Another perk of these hiking shoes is their lightweight nature. Nobody wants to feel like they’re lugging around weights on their feet, right? Well, with the Redmond III Mid, you’ll enjoy a lightweight hiking experience without compromising on durability or protection. It’s a win-win situation!
Let’s not forget the waterproof feature. Picture yourself trekking through muddy trails or encountering unexpected rain showers. The Redmond III Mid has got you covered. Its waterproof design ensures your feet stay dry, allowing you to focus on the beauty of nature rather than wet and uncomfortable shoes.
Now, let’s address the one potential drawback. These shoes can get a bit hot, especially during summer hikes. While this may be true, there’s a simple solution: wear moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet cool and dry. By combining the shoes with the right socks, you’ll have the perfect setup for any hiking adventure.
Pros
- Comfortable and supportive fit
- Lightweight design for easy hiking
- Durable materials for long-lasting use
- Great price for the quality
- Waterproof construction for all-weather hikes
Cons
- Can get hot during warmer weather (wear moisture-wicking socks)
Criteria for Choosing the Best Hiking Boots for Plantar Fasciitis
When choosing the best hiking boots for plantar fasciitis, there are several key criteria to keep in mind. These include:
Arch Support
Look for boots that provide ample arch support to help distribute weight evenly across the foot and prevent excessive strain on the plantar fascia. Many hiking boots designed for plantar fasciitis feature built-in arch support, as well as removable insoles that can be replaced with custom orthotics if needed.
Cushioning
Look for boots that provide adequate cushioning to absorb shock and reduce pressure on the heel and ball of the foot. This can help prevent further damage to the plantar fascia and reduce pain and discomfort while hiking.
Heel Stability
Look for boots that provide good heel stability to help prevent your foot from sliding around inside the shoe. This can help reduce the risk of blisters and other foot injuries, as well as provide additional support to the plantar fascia.
Traction
Look for boots that provide good traction on a variety of terrains, including wet and slippery surfaces. This can help prevent slips and falls while hiking and reduce the risk of further foot injuries.
Durability
Look for boots made from high-quality materials that are designed to withstand the rigors of hiking. This can help ensure that your boots last for many hiking trips to come, and that you won’t need to replace them frequently due to wear and tear.
