Finding the best shoes for heel pain can be challenging. It starts with understanding the causes of Heel pain and knowing your feet. While it is best to have a podiatrist or physical therapist individually evaluate your movement and foot condition before making a purchase, we have narrowed down the options to help you get started.
It is not uncommon to experience pain in the heel area. Fortunately, there are many shoes available to remedy this condition, and self-care is also possible.
According to experts, heel pain is one of the most commonly reported foot problems. Heel pain or heartburn usually occurs in two places: behind the heel and under the heel. The most common cause of pain under the heel is a condition that many barkingdogshoes.com readers are familiar with. This is plantar fasciitis, which for some people can feel like walking on needles from the first step in the morning.
This heel pain can be painful and uncomfortable, no matter where the pain is or how bad it is, it can interfere with your daily life.
To relieve heel pain, it is important to choose the right shoes. Shoes that support the heel, insoles that cushion your gait, and avoid pancake-flat shoes can help with the problem.
Also Read: Best Shoes For Elderly Women
Best Shoes For Heel Pain
Best Shoes For Heel Pain | Comparison table 2022
5-Stars Pick | Great Prices | High Quality
Image | Title | Buy | |
---|---|---|---|
OOFOS OOahh Slide, Black - Lightweight Recovery Footwear - Reduces Stress on Feet, Joints & Back - Machine Washable - Men’s Size 13, Women’s Size 15 | OOFOS | Check Price | |
New Balance Men's Made in US 990 V5 Sneaker, Grey/Castlerock, 10.5 | New Balance | Check Price | |
HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 7 Mens Shoes Size 11, Color: Black/Black | HOKA ONE ONE | Check Price | |
Aetrex Jillian Active Water-Friendly Sandal with Arch Support | Aetrex | Check Price | |
Brooks Women's Adrenaline GTS 22 Grey/Rose/Black 8 B - Medium | Brooks | Check Price | |
Dansko Women's Henriette Black/Black Comfort Sneaker 10.5-11 M US | Dansko | Check Price | |
ECCO Mens Soft 7 Street Sneaker, Marine/Marine/Navy, 10-10.5 M US | ECCO | Check Price | |
OluKai Ohana Women's Beach Sandals, Quick-Dry Flip-Flop Slides, Water Resistant, Wet Grip Soles & Compression Molded Footbed, Black/Black, 8 | OLUKAI | Check Price | |
ASICS Women's Gel-Dedicate 7 Tennis Shoes, 6, White/Pure Silver | ASICS | Check Price |
Prices and images pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Best Shoes For Heel Pain | Reviews 2022
1. OOFOS OOahh Slide, Black Recovery Footwear
- Feel the OO - An evolution of the OOriginal, the OOahh Slide features an agile foam strap for additional support and comfort. Like every OOFOS shoe, it features OOfoam technology & the patented footbed.
- OOfoam Technology - Our revolutionary OOfoam technology absorbs 37% more impact than traditional footwear foam materials to reduce the stress on your feet, joints & back. Plus, the closed-cell foam is machine washable and designed to minimize odor.
- Patented Footbed - Our patented footbed cradles and supports arches to reduce energy exertion in the ankles by up to 47% compared to competitors’ footwear. So walking is easier. Recovery is faster. And yOO feel better.
- Backed by Science - Research shows OOFOS reduce load, decrease compressive forces, and support foot mobility when compared to traditional footwear. As a result, every OOFOS style carries the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance!
- Made for Recovery - When you’re always on the go, the demand on your joints can translate into fatigue, muscle tightness & pain. At OOFOS, we don’t want to slow you down. Our shoes are designed to help your body work less—so you can do more.
- Finding Your Size - For your perfect fit, consult the sizing chart in the images above! Wear a half size? In general, we recommend that women who wear a ½ size size up, and men who wear a ½ size size down.
- - Lightweight - Reduces Stress on Feet, Joints & Back - Machine Washable - Men’s Size 10, Women’s Size 12
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2. New Balance Men’s 990 V5 Sneaker, Grey/Castlerock, 10.5
- Heritage Style: The 990v5 is an iconic sneaker, built with a pigskin and mesh upper in a classic running silhouette designed to look amazing anywhere from morning run to runway
- Supportive Fit: Venture on, wherever the day takes you, with the New Balance 990v5 lifestyle shoe. An ENCAP midsole combines lightweight foam with a durable polyurethane rim to deliver all-day support
- Helps Protect Ankles: Designed for all-day comfort, these everyday running shoes from New Balance also include dual-density collar foam that offers support and comfort for your ankles
- Built to Last: These New Balance everyday shoes are designed with a durable blown rubber outsole that stands up to daily wear and helps provide comfort in every step
- Made in the USA: Manufactured in the US for over 75 years and representing a limited portion of US sales, New Balance MADE is a premium collection that contains a domestic value of 70% or greater
3. HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 7 Mens Shoes Size 11
- Hoka One One
- Mens Shoes
- Running Shoes
- Black/Black
- Synthetic
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4. Aetrex Jillian Active Water
- The Aetrex Cobra Orthotic System Built-Into Every Pair: Arch support helps to stabilize and align feet. Arch support helps to relieve common foot pain & plantar fasciitis. Support pod to relieve forefoot pressure. UltraSky EVA foam to cushion and provide superior comfort. Contoured rearfoot to craddle your heel and relieve pressure.
- Adjustability: Fully Adjustable Straps with Hook & Loop Closures for Customized Fit & to Help Accommodate Narrow/Wide Feet
- Material: SUPER Light-weight UltraSky EVA Foam for Water-friendly Construction (so light, they float!)
- Bunion Pocket to provide space for bunions and relieve pressure
- Extreme cushioning and shock absorption to help prevent injury and provide unmatched support
- -Friendly Sandal with Arch Support
5. Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 22
- The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 running shoes have an updated mesh upper with 3D print for added structure and support. The holistic GuideRails support system also helps protect the knees by keeping excess movement in check.
- Predecessor: Adrenaline GTS 21.
- Support Type: Overpronation/Stability.
- Cushioning: High energizing cushioning.
- Surface: Road.
- Grey/Rose/Black 8 B - Medium
6. Dansko Women’s Henriette Black/Black
- Removable, energy return EVA footbed with Dansko Natural Arch technology for added support
- Linings treated for odor control - creating the perfect dansko womens sneaker
- Socklining equipped with cooling technology
- Chrome-free leather and recycled nylon uppers. Suede treated with 3M Scotchgard protector for stain resistance
- Energy return, light weight EVA, midsole with nylon shank for stability and shock absorption
- Comfort Sneaker 10.5-11 M US
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7. ECCO Mens Soft 7 Street Sneaker, Marine
- Uppers made of rich full grain leather for a light and soft feel
- A full anatomical last shaper provides a supremely comfortable fit
- Removable leather covered inlay sole with ECCO Comfort Fiber System for increased air circulation
- Direct-injected, two component PU/TPU outsole is comfortable, hard-wearing, light and flexible
- Soft, comfortable lining construction that ensures a perfect inner climate
- Marine/Navy, 10-10.5 M US
8. OluKai Ohana Women’s Beach Sandals
- THE ULTIMATE BEACH SANDAL: In Hawai‘i, ‘ohana isn’t just immediate family; an ‘ohana is a sanctuary of friends and family where you can just be yourself. With that in mind, we crafted the classic Ohana womens sandal, your go-to choice for everyday style. A water-resistant sandal with a smooth drop-in footbed for the perfect anatomical fit, the Ohana makes your feet feel at home.
- WATER-RESISTANT & QUICK-DRY: Beach sandals, flip-flops and slides, comfort and style, all come together in the Ohana sandal, featuring water-resistant synthetic straps with ultra-soft, quick-drying jersey knit lining and a soft nylon toe post for that ultra-comfy fit.
- ALL-DAY COMFORT: The compression-molded EVA midsole with smooth drop-in ICEVA footbed provides an anatomical fit for sustained all-day comfort.
- LIGHTWEIGHT, DURABLE & STYLISH: The Ohana sandal features a non-marking rubber outsole with razor-siped edges to enhance traction on wet surfaces for shoes with non-slip safety. Available in womens shoe size 5 - 12.
- ONE YEAR WARRANTY: As a testament to our quality construction, all OluKai footwear is backed by a guarantee against manufacturer’s defects for one full year from the date of purchase, including defects such as frayed or loose stitching and straps pulling out where soles are not excessively worn. Footwear covered by the guarantee will be replaced at Olukai’s discretion. See our website for more information.
- Quick-Dry Flip-Flop Slides, Water Resistant, Wet Grip Soles & Compression Molded Footbed, Black/Black, 8
Also Read: Best Walking Shoes For Wide Feet
9. ASICS Women’s Gel-Dedicate 7 Tennis Shoes
- Durable synthetic leather toe overlays -
- TRUSSTIC technology and wrap-up outsole improve stability -
- GEL Technology - Cushioning provides excellent shock absorption
- 6, White/Pure Silver
- This shoes upper is constructed with synthetic leather materials to improve support
- They keep your feet locked-in when youre switching directions and chasing down challenging shots
- A TRUSSTIC™ support unit and wrap-up outsole improve stability while allowing your feet to move freely
- This lets you change directions more confidently, particularly if youre moving side-to-side.
What Should I Look For When Choosing The Best Shoes For Heel Pain | Unrivaled Guide 2022
When looking for the best shoes to relieve Heel pain, it is important to choose shoes that provide both comfort and support. However, it is also important to find shoes that fit your feet and provide comfort not only when standing, but also when doing activities you enjoy.
Correct Fit:
The first step is to choose the right shoes for you. When ordering online, experts say we need to measure both feet, as our feet may actually be slightly different sizes. Buy the size that fits the larger foot.
Cushioning, Soft Impact
Cushioning in the heel, where Heel pain is most painful, can reduce pain and soften the impact of ground reaction forces at each stage of the gait cycle.
Stability
Sole and heel cup stability is important to prevent overpronation (foot falling inward) and excessive heel movement. Shoes that wrap around the heel contribute to better alignment of the foot within the shoe. This alignment also benefits the joints above the ankle.
Removable Insoles
Removable insoles can make shoes more adjustable and provide additional features that are beneficial to people with Heel pain. Rocker soles, for example, are thicker than regular soles and have a rounded heel. For this reason, people with Heel pain who experience pain when walking or standing may find it uncomfortable if the sole is not flat.
A Good Counter.
Shoes with a supportive counter are also desirable. This is the part of the shoe that reinforces the heel and holds the heel and foot in the shoe, often with an insert. As we age, the fat layer of the foot decreases, making supportive shoes even more important for supporting the heel and preventing foot pain.
Arch Support:
It is also important to note the arch support of the shoe. The arch supports and absorbs the weight of the body when getting off the ground or standing up. This is an important job, and arch supports can reduce the risk of heel pain by protecting the plantar fascia tissue.
If you are considering wearing high heels, remember that they can put stress on the calf muscles and plantar fascia, which can exacerbate foot problems. You may have noticed that we still sometimes recommend high heels. After all, girls need to dress up! You may want to look for platform styles that reduce the overall height of your feet.
Have A Heel Of 1 To 2 Inches.
A completely flat heel is not ideal, nor is a high heel. The angle of the foot when walking can pull on the plantar fascia as well as the Achilles tendon and, depending on the mobility of the ankle, the ankle tendon. Lowering it any lower will cause excessive contraction of the Achilles tendon and aggravate foot pain.
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What Are The Best Shoes For Heel Pain?
As mentioned, this guide advises on some excellent brands, but it is by no means all-inclusive. We have provided evidence-based advice, but you must still decide for yourself which shoes are most effective.
That said, here are our recommendations for the best running and walking shoes for heel pain.
Feel free to navigate to the category that best suits you.
Rubber-Soled Shoes For Heel Pain
Rubber-soled shoes have the added benefit of relieving the plantar fascia by rocking the foot as you walk. This changes the force and is believed to reduce the stress on the heel. Thus, prescription shoes with insoles relieve stress and further increase the potential for relief of heel pain symptoms.
Open-Toe Shoes/Sandals For Heel Pain
Open-toed shoes or sandals are not recommended for heel pain, unlike closed, cushioned shoes. However, some are better than others if they are needed at home. Look for flip-flops or sandals with arch supports, which have been proven to reduce heel pain.
Joggers For Heel Pain
There are many jogging shoes on the market. Many have good heel cushioning. We have provided some examples that have worked well. It is recommended that you get insoles that do not need to be custom molded, even in good jogging shoes. You can also try insoles in your shoes and if they are comfortable, that should be fine. (You may need to remove the existing insoles).
Work Shoes For Heel Pain
We spend many hours a week at work. Therefore, it is imperative that we consider the best shoes for heel pain when we work. I mentioned earlier that one way to do this is to have two pairs of shoes and alternate between them during the workweek. This will change the load on the plantar fascia.
Boots For Heel Pain
Boots are often overlooked but are necessary for a variety of manual occupations. They can also be used for walking in the bushes, but this is not recommended for patients with heel pain unless they are trained to do so. The principles for finding the best shoes for heel pain remain the same. The heel should have excellent cushioning and adequate arch support. Boots also have the advantage of passively stabilizing the ankle. This helps prevent excessive pronation or adduction, which is believed to increase the risk of heel pain.
Best Shoes For Heel Pain | Infographics
Best Shoes For Heel Pain | Video Explanation
FAQs
How can Heel pain be changed by choosing the right shoes?
Choosing the right shoes can greatly improve the pain caused by Heel pain. Unfortunately, changing shoes alone may not cure Heel pain symptoms.
Shoes have a great impact on comfort, and wearing the wrong shoes can cause pain, but shoes alone will not solve Heel pain. If you have symptoms that you think maybe Heel pain, see an orthopedist or physical therapist for a correct diagnosis and a personalized exercise program to properly treat the cause of your pain.
What shoes should I avoid if I have Heel pain?
Avoid flat shoes with hard soles and shoes that simply do not fit, either too wide or too tight in the toe or heel.
What is the best shoe for heel pain?
A combination of rocker bottom shoes and insoles (custom made or over-the-counter) has been proven to give the best results.
What do doctors recommend for heel pain?
Doctors recommend the treatments described in this article. Begin with at least one year of non-surgical treatment. This may include shoes, night splints, exercise therapy, inserts, tape, etc.
What is the best shoe for women with heel pain?
There is no such thing as the perfect shoe. However, at a minimum, a stone sole, good arch support, and heel cushioning are recommended.
Conclusion
The best shoes for heel pain are unique to each individual. Use the above information to help you choose the right shoes. Remember to alternate shoes if you have a similar occupation, such as a nurse who is on her feet all day.

Hi, I am Brian, Lives in Mooresville, North Carolina, and Went to The University of Texas at Austin, I am a shoe lover & know the inside out of shoes. I am well aware of the qualities of top-quality boots. That’s what I’m sharing with the reader of About Shoes/boots/footwear. Read More Here
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