Including Hoka sneakers, Vionic flats, and Clarks flip-flops

Podiatrist-Approved Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

• Cute and Cushy: Cole Haan Grand Crosscourt Sneakers, $53 (orig. $110)
• Olivia Wilde’s Exact Sneakers: Hoka Bondi 9 Sneakers, $175 (orig. $190)
• “More Cushioning Than a Typical Flip-Flop”: Clarks Breeze Sea Flip-Flops, $31 (orig. $60)
• Great for Long Travel Days: Naturalizer Marianne Slip-On Sneakers, $90 (orig. $99)
• Wear Year-Round: Vionic Klara Ballet Flats, $83 (orig. $150)

Plantar fasciitis doesn’t have to stop you from wearing cute summer shoes. 

While I don’t suffer from the condition specifically, I did break my ankle a decade ago, which has led to consistent, achingly similar pain and swelling ever since. That’s why I reached out to board-certified podiatrist Dr. Shaynah Goldfine for her recommendations on the best summer shoes for plantar fasciitis. 

“Whether it’s a sneaker or sandal, the shoe should support the arch and heel while limiting excessive foot motion,” she advises. Her top picks for flip-flops, slip-on sneakers, running shoes, and ballet flats are from brands like Vionic, Hoka, and Naturalizer. The best part? They’re all available on Amazon starting at $31.

Related: 3 Podiatrists Recommended These Supportive Sandals and Sneakers for Pain-Free, All-Day Comfort — Starting at $48

Cole Haan Grand Crosscourt Sneakers

$110 $53 at Amazon

Dr. Goldfine says these lace-up sneakers offer “a comfortable amount of cushioning without sacrificing style,” especially for “summer travel or casual events where you’ll be walking more than expected.” They come in a variety of neutral hues like cream, white, and black, plus sizes 5–11 with regular and wide widths available.

Hoka Bondi 9 Sneakers

$190 $175 at Amazon

Olivia Wilde wears this specific style of Hoka sneakers on repeat. Dr. Goldfine especially approves of these sneakers for people with plantar fasciitis because of their “exceptional cushioning and stable platform,” which she says “helps reduce stress on the heel while remaining comfortable for all-day wear.”

Related: My Mom, 57, and I, 25, Are Picky About Shoes — These 9 Pairs Are Our Go-Tos for 10,000-Plus Step Days from $21

Clarks Breeze Sea Flip-Flops

$60 $31 at Amazon

While many podiatrists frequently advise avoiding flip-flops because of their lack of support, this Clarks style is different. “This sandal provides more cushioning than a typical flip-flop, with a lightweight design that’s comfortable for casual summer wear,” says Dr. Goldfine. She suggests wearing them for “shorter outings,” like brunch dates with friends or casual evening events.

No Thin Sandals Here

If you suffer from plantar fasciitis, Dr. Goldfine recommends staying away from thinner shoes like flat sandals. “They don’t provide enough support for the plantar fascia and can increase heel pain, especially if you’re walking or standing for long periods,” she explains.

Naturalizer Marianne Slip-On Sneakers

$100 $90 at Amazon

I rely on cute yet comfortable slip-on sneakers for airport travel days, and this pair definitely fits the bill. “They provide cushioning and flexibility while still offering enough support for everyday activities,” says Dr. Goldfine, noting that they’re “an easy option for travel, errands, or long days on your feet.”

Vionic Klara Ballet Flats

$150 $83 at Amazon

“Many ballet flats offer little to no support, but the Vionic Klara is different,” Dr. Goldfine attests. She specifically points out the built-in arch support and cushioned footbeds, which “make it a comfortable option for work or dressier occasions without placing unnecessary strain on the plantar fascia.” 

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