In this blog post, I’ll share some tips on choosing stylish shoes for plantar fasciitis and other common foot problems. I’ll also recommend some specific brands and styles that you may want to try.
Ready to shop? See my recommendations in the following categories:
- Stylish Boots for Plantar Fasciitis
- Dress Shoes
- Sneakers and Trainers for Plantar Fasciitis
- House Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
If you have orthopedic issues, it’s important to find footwear that offers good arch support and a wide enough toe box for the feet to spread naturally. It would be not only uncomfortable but unhealthy for you to wear totally flat sandals or stiletto heels.
Fortunately, we have many stylish foot-friendly shoe options these days. Thankfully, we’re no longer stuck with unattractive orthopedic shoes that instantly ruin our outfits.
Another thing to keep in mind when dealing with foot problems like bunions or plantar fasciitis is that you should skip trend shoes. These are often made of poor-quality materials and don’t offer the support your feet need.
As a result of these needs, this list is heavily skewed toward boots, trainers, and sneakers. These shoe styles provide the most support for troubled feet.
Occasionally, you may find you need to wear something dressier or lighter for a professional event, a special occasion, or a trip to the beach. I’ve also included a few options here for those lifestyle needs.
Stylish Boots for Plantar Fasciitis
As mentioned above, boots are one of the most supportive shoe styles. These are great for chilly weather, walking, and sometimes even dressier occasions.
Vivaia Square Toe Water Repellent Regina Boots
These Vivaia boots are a very fashionable choice for women with plantar fasciitis or bunions. Since they’re dressier with a slight heel, I would recommend only wearing them for a few hours at a time. In other words, they’re a perfect dinner shoe.
Dansko Women’s Becca Pull-on Boot
These supportive booties from Dansko are great for travel. I had a similar pair years ago and wore them every chance I got, including all over Washington D.C.
Vionic Nella Platform Bootie
While some clients report being able to wear these all day, I’ve found these boots excellent for office work or evening plans. The platform and the 3” block heel make them more comfortable than the average fashion boot.
Orthofeet Women’s Orthopedic Leather Emma Ankle Boots
If you need professional dress shoes for plantar fasciitis, these ankle boots from Orthofeet can work well with black trousers, dark wash jeans, and even certain leggings.
Vionic Evergreen Ankle Boot
Looking for a classic Chelsea boot for bunions or other foot problems? Vionic has you covered.
Lems Shoes Women’s Chelsea Waterproof Boot
If you have more weather-specific needs, Colorado-based shoe company Lems has a great option with this waterproof boot. These are available in black and brown. I like the brown with denim and the black with athletic leggings.
Camper Right Nina Bootie
These outdoorsy booties feature a cushioned insole and dual-side goring to ensure a comfortable fit. They’re available in dark green and black at Nordstrom.
FitFlop Women’s F-Mode Suede Flatform Chelsea Boots
If you experience pain in the ball of your foot (aka metatarsalgia), you may find boots with a platform even more comfortable. This stylish option from FitFlop is available in tan and black.
Women’s Dress Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
You may have a wedding invitation, a presentation at work, or a gala to attend where you’ll be required to dress more formally. This means you’ll have to skip your favorite sneakers. Fortunately, there are dressy options that won’t have your feet begging for mercy by the end of the night.
Aerosoles Camera Heeled Sandal
While I love a pair of gold heels, these Camera sandals from Aerosoles are available in tons of colors and materials. Whether you like the metallics, black suede, or ivory leather, there’s an option for you. I would call these dinner shoes as they shouldn’t be worn for more than a few hours.
Vivaia Pointed Toe Ballet Flats
These neutral ballet flats are perfect for work. Due to their slightly pointed toe, they also pair quite well with dresses and skirts.
Dansko Lexie Slip on Mules
If you have back-of-heel pain and can’t stand straps or fabric on that portion of your skin, consider this backless mule from Dankso. They look great paired with cropped black trousers.
Vionic Kensley Women’s Loafer
This Vionic loafer is also one of the most current and stylish shoes for plantar fasciitis. The lug sole and wider toe box work together to keep this style comfortable and modern.
L’Amour des Pieds Orva Wedge Sandal
This lovely wedge-pump hybrid is a great option for dressier wardrobe needs. They’re currently available in this taupe and a chocolate brown.
Sneakers and Trainers
For the athletic women, the nurses, the teachers, and all of us who spend most of the day up and on our feet, these are the best sneakers and trainers I’ve found for plantar fasciitis, bunions, tendonitis, and all our other foot problems.
HOKA One Women’s Bondi Sneaker
There’s a reason HOKA has exploded in popularity. These max cushion running shoes are perfect for those who need extra support or spend all day on their feet. See other colors here.
Topo Athletic Ultra Fly 4 5mm Drop Road Running Shoes
The Topo brand is ideal for those suffering from bunions or a wider forefoot.
Birkenstock Bend Sneaker
If you’re seeking a fashion sneaker that can be worn with jeans, dresses, and skirts, the Bend style from Birkenstock is a great choice.
On Women’s CloudRunner Training Sneakers
Currently, these are my favorite sneakers. I have tailor’s bunions on both feet as well as chronic metatarsalgia (aka pain in the ball of my foot). If you have similar issues, I highly recommend checking these out. I am normally a 7.5 regular width, but I purchased these in an 8. Go up half a size.
Altra Women’s Torin 5
Another popular brand for those of us with wide feet and or bunions is Altra. This is due to the comfortable, wider toe boxes on most of their sneakers.
Altra Women’s Superior 5 Train Running Shoes
If you need hiking-appropriate sneakers, this model from Altra will suit your needs perfectly.
Ryka Women’s Predecessor Walking Shoe
For those needing a walking sneaker, this model from Ryka is great and one of the more affordable options on my list. They’re often on sale for $100 or less.
House Shoes
While you can certainly use any of the sandals above as your house shoes, sometimes damp weather or cold feet have us needing more coverage. And let’s face it, no one wants to walk to her mailbox in slipper socks.
Kuru Footwear Stride Slip Ons
These are a cozy, comfortable option that allows you to walk to your mailbox or go water the garden without changing your shoes.
Strole Snug Wool Slippers
Like the above option, these have a harder sole that makes them perfect for running in and out of your home.
Chaco Women’s Ramble Puff Snow Ankle Boots
If you’re facing a colder climate, this cozy ankle boot is ideal for your house shoes. There are over 10 colorways on Amazon, but I unabashedly love this Artic Chill Multicolor version. It reminds me of something Kimmy would wear on Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt. Talk about dopamine dressing!
Ryka Women’s Anchorage Suede Cozy Slip-on Booties
These can be slipped on and off without sitting down or using your hands, making them perfect for those with mobility issues or arthritis.
FAQ about Stylish Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
What is plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that causes pain in the bottom of the foot. Finding stylish shoes that are comfortable for people with plantar fasciitis can be difficult, but it’s not impossible.
What are bunions?
A bunion is a bony bump that develops on the joint at the base of the big toe. It is caused by the big toe bending inward, which puts pressure on the joint and causes it to become inflamed. Bunions can be painful and can make it difficult to wear shoes.
What is a tailor’s bunion?
A tailor’s bunion is a type of bunion that develops on the joint at the base of the little toe. It is caused by the little toe bending inward, which puts pressure on the joint and causes it to become inflamed. Tailor’s bunions can be painful and can make it difficult to wear shoes.
What should I look for in shoes for plantar fasciitis?
Look for shoes with a slightly elevated heel. This may help alleviate heel pain. Some research suggests shoes with a heel height between 0.1 to 1.5 inches may be best for plantar fasciitis. It’s also important to find shoes with proper arch support and wider toe boxes.
Final Thoughts on Stylish Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis, Bunions, and Other Foot Conditions
Finding stylish shoes that are comfortable for people with plantar fasciitis, bunions, and other foot conditions can be difficult. However, there are many great options available that will help you look and feel your best.
Here are a few final thoughts to keep in mind when shopping for stylish shoes for foot pain:
- Look for shoes with a slightly elevated heel.
- Choose shoes with proper arch support and wider toe boxes.
- Avoid shoes with high heels (greater than 3”) or narrow toe boxes.
- Try on different shoes and walk around in them for a few minutes to make sure they are comfortable.
- Try on your footwear in the afternoon if possible. Your feet swell throughout the day. Shoes that are comfortable when you try them on first thing in the morning might not be at 2 pm.
With a little bit of effort, you can find stylish shoes that will help you manage your foot pain and look great at the same time. And if you still need help, consider hiring a personal stylist like me.
