Step into these sandal sales!
If you’ve ever suffered from plantar fasciitis, you know it’s one of the most agonizing causes of foot pain. I had it when I was pregnant, and while I don’t have symptoms right now, I live in constant fear that my heels will become inflamed at any moment. Whether you’re currently mid-flare-up (my thoughts are with you) or like me and trying to prevent the inevitable return of the stabbing, mind-numbing foot pain, your shoe game doesn’t have to suffer, too. That’s why we’ve rounded up the best sandals for plantar fasciitis that will get you through summer pain-free.
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the thick band of tissue connecting your toes and your heel becomes inflamed. These “flare ups” can be caused by certain exercises, obesity, age, and simply having flat feet. Doctors recommend treating plantar fasciitis with special stretches and wearing orthotic shoes whenever you can.
For years, orthotic sandals and shoes got a bad rap for not being stylish. Thick-soled and clunky (but so, so comfy), they were often thought of as “old lady shoes.” Thankfully, shoe brands heard our pleas for more cute looks, and you can now find sandals and shoes for plantar fasciitis that are just as cool as any other sandal, but comfier. Even better? Buying orthotic shoes no longer breaks the bank. The sandals below range from $20-$140, so you don’t have to spend your paycheck for foot pain relief.
According to NYC podiatrist, Dr Emily Splichal, DPM, MS, CES, the best way to treat plantar fasciitis is to take the pressure off the affected area, and the best way to do that is to wear a shoe with ample arch support. “Typically in acute plantar fasciitis you want to look for a sandal that will take stress off of the arch or plantar fascia. A sandal from a brand like Vionic or Aetrex has built-in medial arch support and can take stress off of the foot and fascia.”
Here are our favorites, but keep scrolling for reviews of each:
Pair any of these with one of the best sundresses for women over 50, and you’ll be ready to go anywhere in style this summer!
That depends on the sandal. Plenty of sandals and flip flops out there have little to no support — those can cause a flare-up or worsen your existing plantar fasciitis.
“In acute plantar fasciitis a sandal that is totally flat and thin can increase stress to the plantar fascia and heel,” says Dr. Splichal. “This increased stress can increase symptoms associated with plantar fasciitis such as sharp pain in the heel or along the arch.”
While it’s easy to assume sneaker-like sandals are the best option for stability and pain relief, Dr. Jacqueline Sutera, DPM, claims the strappier styles are just as effective. “The strappier the sandal the better, because it holds your feet in so you don’t have to over grip with your toe muscles. If the straps are adjustable that’s a plus, so this way you can accommodate for anything individualized like bunions, hammertoes, or a wide foot.”
“Typically anything that takes stress off of the foot or controls flat feet (over-pronation) can provide relief in acute plantar fasciitis,” says Dr. Splichal. “There are many good sandal options with arch support which means that if you have plantar fasciitis in warmer months you are not limited to only sneakers.”
Here are all the shoe brands we love that have orthotic sandals for plantar fasciitis:
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More sandals for plantar fasciitis our editors love:
These everyday sandals can be worn to work, even if that involves standing on your feet all day. The arch support, extra cushioning, and stretchy construction let you walk without aches and pains.
If you plan on walking or hiking long distances, or just want the most ergonomic sandals for your feet, Birkenstocks are the way to go. They were all the rage in the ’90s, but the brand actually originated centuries ago in Germany in the 1700s. Birkenstocks developed the first contoured arch support in 1902, and have been the gold standard for comfortable shoes ever since. The Mayari’s anatomically-correct cushioned footbed and deep heel cup evenly distribute your weight, relieving pressure and preventing plantar fasciitis inflammation. The raised toe bar encourages gripping and aids in circulation. Premium leather Birko-flor™ straps are adjustable and don’t rub, allowing for a custom fit that requires no break-in period. The cherry on top? There are 18 colors to choose from!
Happy customer: “These are the best sandals made. I will never wear any other sandal every day. I’ve worn this style in August in Disney World, St. Augustine, Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce, Las Vegas, and I can walk forever. Every color is attractive. Nothing ever rubs, there is no break-in required. I wear a 8.5 to 9 and order a 39. I have a slightly wider forefoot, and like my toes to spread – the regular has plenty of room for this. I can’t stand a thong between my 1st and 2nd toe, but with these, you can’t even feel it. I hope they never get rid of this style.”
Dr. Scholl’s Islanders are technically a wedge sandal, but are low so you’ll get just enough of a lift to stretch your arches and lengthen your legs without feeling like you’re wearing heels. These come in three styles that can be dressed up or down (including an all-black option), but we love how the two-tone cheetah print can add a little pop of fashion to an everyday look. The anatomical cushioning in the sole will keep the pressure off your arches, and the straps will keep your feet from sliding around. If you have a job that keeps you on your feet all day, these will keep you pain-free.
Happy customer: “I just bought these for spring because I needed a sandal with great support. This shoe is so comfortable with great arch support! I would recommend this shoe!”
Aetrex makes fantastic shoes for people suffering from plantar fasciitis, and the Gabby sandal is no exception. Reviewers with both wide and narrow feet love this style because the straps are easily adjustable, so you can fit them to your foot shape and feel completely secure while walking. A microfiber lining and footbed is designed to prevent rubbing and blisters. There are six colors to choose from, including a metallic and snakeskin print that can easily be dressed up.
Happy customer: “These sandals are just great for someone with a high instep and wide foot. Plus they are so stylish and flattering to the foot and ankle. Because of the (almost invisible) velcro strips at three points, the sandal is infinitely adjustable, and it feels very sturdy on the foot as one walks — no flipping or flopping around. I feel that I could walk miles comfortably in this sandal.”
BZees are a fan favorite of those with foot pain and plantar fasciitis, and it’s not hard to see why. Their styles are not only super cute, but machine washable, too! That’s right, no more stinky sandals. The Dream Wedge has an adjustable slingback strap for easy on and off, and gives you the security you need to walk without foot slippage. This style also comes in four other colors, including a chambray denim that goes with anything.
Happy customer: “The most comfortable shoe I have ever purchased. I can walk for hours and they are just like slippers. I have two pairs now. Love Bzees period!”
Buy at Amazon, starting at $35.95
These Clark’s Cloudsteppers just look comfortable, and according to the nearly 1,000 Amazon reviews, they really are like walking on a cloud. Constructed with a thick ortholite footbed and ultra-soft, t-shirt-like fabric straps, you will want to wear these all day, every day. They come in five colors and in both medium and wide width sizes, and have an adjustable slingback strap so you can customize your fit to your feet. Reviewers recommend you size up as they tend to run small.
Happy customer: “This is my third pair of Clarks Cloudsteppers… I have neuropathy that affects my ankle and balance, so I MUST wear shoes of some sort, and these are heavenly made… They are SO comfy! Beautiful! The fabric is soft as I have bunions and the material does not disturb them at all… I will never buy anything else, just more of these in different styles and colors. PS: I am 81 and they make me feel stylish — I detest sneakers and old lady shoes!”
These laser-cut suede wedges strike the right balance of sporty and chic. Not only do they have ample cushion and arch support, the soles have extra grips to protect you from slipping. A zipper on the inner side and a triangle of elastic makes them easy to get on and off. You can style these with just about anything from jeans to dresses — the hardest part is choosing just one of the four colors!
Happy customer: “These wedge sandals are the most comfortable sandals I have purchased. I love them and have already sent the link to both of my sisters, so that they may check them out for themselves.”
If you’re looking for heels, Vionic makes a beautiful block heel that gives you the height you crave without putting pressure on your arches. Exclusive to Vionic, the Leana sandal is adorned with metal hardware and supple suede straps that are adjustable. Like all the brand’s gorgeous styles, these have a biomechanically designed footbed that evenly distributes your weight and supports your arches in the places they feel most pained.
Happy customer: “The perfect summer (and into fall) sandal. I’m in love. So comfortable for heels and so cute!! Love they my arches are supported even in heels.”
If you’re a sucker for slip-ons like us, the Smile Wedge is a great choice. The BZees Cloud Technology feels amazing on inflamed arches, and is a favorite of those suffering from plantar fasciitis. The wedge heel is low so you can easily wear them all day, and the bow is a sweet touch that adds just the right amount of style to your outfit. The denim color goes with everything, but be sure to check out the yellow and colorful print pairs, too!
Happy customer: “My feet always hurt when I walk a distance or even just around the grocery store…at least, they did until I wore these Bzees! Cloud Technology is the perfect description of how comfortable these shoes are. I immediately ordered two more pairs and a pair of booties to wear next fall/winter! The quality is great, the designs/colors are great fun, but the comfort? Totally fantastic!! Thank you, thank you, Bzees!“
It’s hard to pick just one pair of Vionic sandals to hold the “best Vionic sandals” title (keep scrolling for several more of our faves from the renowned brand), but based on its glowing reviews and versatile design, the Lupe sandal gets our top pick. This lightweight style has a shock-resistant orthotic footbed that is biomechanically designed to relieve foot pain associated with plantar fasciitis. The adjustable strap and medium and wide width sizes allow you to get just the right fit, and the grippy sole provides excellent traction and stability. Like many Vionic styles, this one received the APMA Seal of Acceptance, proving even podiatrists are obsessed with the brand’s high-quality (and stylish!) orthotic shoes.
Happy customer: “This sandal is the BEST Vionic sandal, and I have several pairs. It has a strap that keeps it secure, and it has good arch support for those like myself who have a high arch and plantar fasciitis. It is so cute, better than the picture, and so comfortable and easy to adjust! I’m going to order another pair in black.”
Strappy sandals are some of the most versatile — not only are they flattering on every size and shape of foot, they can be worn at both dressy or casual occasions. These Tess wedges are low but will still give you some height, and of course, have all the biomechanical support of other podiatrist-approved Vionic styles. Comfy straps are adjustable to hold your foot in place without rubbing, and provide the stability you need to walk and dance freely without having to worry about slipping. A cushy, ergonomic footbed relieves plantar fasciitis inflammation and evenly distributes your weight to avoid pressure points. The subtly embossed snake pattern comes in this neutral shade and black, and will be your new favorite sandals.
Whether you’re headed to a wedding or just want to fancy up your maxi skirt style, these dressy sandals will amp up your outfit without hurting your heels.
One DSW reviewer described these ultra-cool low wedges as “comfortable right out of the box,” which isn’t always the case with strappy sandals. The cross strap secures with a hook and loop making them easy to slip on and off, and the cushioned footbed is wrapped with cork for a subtle detail that adds just the right amount of trendy to your look. You’ll be comfy all day wearing this classic style.
Happy customer: “I tried these on a whim and was immediately impressed. They are so comfortable. I have plantar fasciitis and a Morton’s neuroma. Comfort is the most important factor over style… So cute and comfortable!”
We’ve talked about Vionic extensively, but in case you missed my ravings, all you really need to know is that the brand is iconic for designing beautiful orthotic shoes and sandals for people suffering from plantar fasciitis. This flat, embossed Ella sandal is a best-seller on their site, which is saying a lot because they have so many pretty pairs. Biomechanically designed to hug your arches, you’ll feel completely supported without putting an ounce of pressure on your most pained areas.
Happy customer (from Nordstrom): “Unique flat with arch support. Really comfy and does not cut against my toes as this style often does. Picked up the nude and considering getting the black, too.”
Wedges give you just enough height to lengthen your legs and dress up your outfit without making it impossible to walk. Pair that with Velocity 2.0 cushioning and arch support, and you have this lovely Lifestride Keaton espadrille wedge. These sandals come in three colors, but we love this summery floral print. The elastic crisscross straps will keep your feet from slipping, and the fabric lining will be soft against your skin. Reviewers rave that they are able to wear them for hours without foot pain, which is rare for such a pretty sandal!
Happy customer: “These are amazingly comfortable and just the right height for pants or dresses. Perfect for spring and summer outfits!”
These embossed metallic platforms are guaranteed to instantly glam up your outfit and give you the support you need to walk — or dance — your way through the day. The comfy toe loop holds your foot in place, while the sustainable anatomical cushioning of the foam footbed take the pressure off your arches and provides some much-needed relief from plantar fasciitis symptoms. Best of all, they slip on and off, so you don’t have to worry about bending down.
Happy customer: “These are so cute, and comfortable. They are going to be a great slip on sandal for the summer.”
Buy at Amazon, starting at $46.86
Amazon reviewers are going wild for these dressy wedge sandals from Crocs with more than 2,900 5-star reviews. Starting at just $28, this is possibly one of the most affordable sandals for plantar fasciitis you’ll find. The Leigh II Wedge footbed is angled to alleviate heel inflammation and relieve pressure from your arches. The adjustable ankle strap helps to keep your foot in place, and the grippy soles add stability for dancing the day away at a friend’s wedding. Crocs haven’t let us down yet, and this style is no exception!
Happy customer: “I have these in black as well. I absolutely love these shoes. So comfortable to wear all day. You can dress them up or down. I have plantar fasciitis and I can wear these with no problem.”
Buy at Amazon, starting at $69.95
This classic pump sandal has more than 1,300 5-star reviews on Amazon. Made with 100 percent genuine leather, the quality construction of the Cobb Hill sandal will last you for years. A low heel combined with an adjustable ankle strap ensures the stability you need to walk (or dance!) without slipping, and the interior cushion pod keeps your foot from experiencing the pressure and inflammation that is common with plantar fasciitis. The best part? They come in narrow, medium, and wide widths, so you can find the perfect fit for your feet.
Happy customer: “I encourage any woman who has had issues with dress shoes due to orthopedic issues to try the Cobb Hill Aubrey Dress Pump. Having had 4 foot surgeries and a total knee replacement in less than 10 years, I felt that I was condemned to wearing New Balance walking shoes and Orthaheel flip flops EVERYWHERE. With a wedding coming up, I decided to renew my search for some dressy shoes to go with my new party dress. I decided on Cobb Hill because, like New Balance, they offer wide widths. I’m glad I did. The Aubrey Dress Pump is very classy-looking, sort of Art Deco. The insole provides excellent arch support. The heel is very attractive and safe – not too narrow. The T-strap has a lengthening effect to the leg and provides extra security.”
Buy at Amazon, starting at $45
More than 2,000 Amazon reviews gave these Kirra sandals five stars, and based on Vionic’s reputation for creating beautiful, podiatrist-approved orthotic shoes, we’re not surprised at the reception. A classic t-strap style with an adjustable slingback strap, these sandals can be dressed up or down. The footbed is biomechanical designed to provide complete support to your arches and heels, so you can be mid- plantar fasciitis flare-up and still walk pain-free. They come in wide width and medium sizes, and 12 different colors that are almost impossible to choose from.
Happy customer: “I wear Vionics for the awesome support and cute styles. My plantar fasciitis has gone away since wearing these shoes. When I first realized I had plantar fasciitis, I though I would have to wear “special” shoes and never get to wear anything cute again. But Vionics have the cutest flip flops and sandals and slippers…I’ll always find something I like. I just ordered a pair of their flip flops after getting these. I am super happy with this company and how much it has helped my feet to feel better. Plantar fasciitis is so painful and these shoes take away all that pain!”
Before you start worrying about how to keep these white knit wedges clean, know that all BZees are machine washable, so you can just toss them into the wash and they come out sparkling! If that feature wasn’t enough, the Secret Wedge sandal is designed with BZee’s iconic Cloud Technology, allowing your arches to feel supported as you walk. The stretchy knit fabric and elastic slingback make it easy to put them on without a struggle. They would look great with a formal dress, maxi skirt, or even jeans, and can be worn for hours without foot pain.
Happy customer: “I have been dealing with plantar fasciitis for over a year and needed a shoe that looked somewhat casual dressy. I’m a teacher, so I’m on my feet all day. I couldn’t believe how comfortable these shoes are. Even after being on my feet for 9 hours my feet still felt great! I have even gotten several compliments on the style. After a month of wearing these already, I haven’t had any planters fasciitis symptoms at all. They run pretty true to size. They fit like a comfortable glove.”
Whether you have a standard-width foot or not, these sandals are inclusive to all shapes and sizes. No really, you can choose from slim, narrow, medium, wide, and double wide widths, and five colors that will dress up your fanciest outfits. The straps are designed to keep your foot securely in place with an easily adjustable hook-and-loop closure. The SAS Tripad® Comfort System adapts to all three pressure points of the foot — your ball, heel, and arch — to provide ample relief from plantar fasciitis symptoms.
Happy customer: “I bought these shoes for my mom. She has a collapsing arch and has a pinched nerve between her third and fourth toes. She has these shoes in two other colors and loves them especially since they come in double wide width. She finds them extra comfortable. Zappos also has them at a great price. My mom wears these shoes out and about and her Vionic flip flops indoors and has seen a significant reduction in her foot pain. Highly recommended!”
If you have plantar fasciitis, walking barefoot is against doctor’s orders. Podiatrists recommend investing in high-arched, cushioned flip flops and sport sandals that take the pressure off your inflamed areas. These orthotic styles are great for walking around the house or running errands without foot pain.
Buy at Amazon, starting at $65.87
If you want orthotic flip flops with some interesting detail, these floral lattice FlitFlops are a pretty option that will make your feet feel cushioned and cared for. Microwobbleboard midsoles — custom to FlitFlops — have a seamless arched contour and hold your foot in place, ideal features for those suffering from plantar fasciitis. They received the APMA Seal of Acceptance, a stamp of approval from podiatrists awarded to only the best orthotic shoes.
Happy customer: “I have plantar fasciitis and tendinitis in both feet and legs, so comfort and ease of wear are always very important to me. This shoe fits both bills easily, as well as being of high quality construction and materials. I have three pair and have had no issues with any of them, including the toe post position. They’re also affordable, so more high marks… I’ll definitely be owning more!”
Buy at Amazon, starting at $16.95
When it comes to sporty comfort, you can always trust Crocs. More than 11,000 Amazon users gave these Kadee II flip flops 5-star reviews, many which claim to have found relief from their painful plantar fasciitis symptoms by simply wearing these sandals. Constructed of Croslite foam and a soft toe post, they evenly distribute your weight to avoid pressure on your most inflamed areas. Unlike some styles, these flip flops are orthotic without being bulky, and are lightweight enough to take anywhere. Check out all the colors — there are 16 of them!
Happy customer: “My PT told me to get a pair of Crocs for my plantar fasciitis condition. I have been wearing these for three weeks now and they have made a huge improvement in managing my pain. I carry these with me everywhere… I plan to keep them at work to use during the day.“
Buy at The Walking Company, $89.95
ABEO is changing the game when it comes to supportive footwear. These B.I.O.system flip flops come with the brand’s signature “Built-In Orthotic” support, which helps align your body and evenly distribute weight for stability and less pressure on your joints. These come with metatarsal support specifically designed to relieve plantar fasciitis — and best of all, they’re available in eight colors!
Happy customer: “I live in these! I have been wearing ABEO shoes, flip flops, and sandals for years now … I can’t live without them! I have plantar fasciitis, heel bone spurs, and Achilles tendinitis — ABEO shoes have literally given me the ability to walk again.”
I know so many people who own these sporty OOFOS slides, and they all say they wouldn’t have found relief from plantar fasciitis without them. Built-in OOfoam® technology absorbs 37 percent more impact than traditional footwear, and the ultra-cushioned footbed relieves strain on your arches, legs, and knees. They’re also machine washable, so they’ll never smell!
Happy customer: “Like walking on a cloud. Sandal fit perfectly, gives arch support, and comfy from the get-go. I have a hammertoe, and a bunion and related foot disturbances so very happy to fit. I’ve had plantar fasciitis and it was creeping back. I think these sandals will help avoid a recurrence. Love the sparkly dark blue color.“
These lightweight, mesh sport sandals hug your foot without rubbing and are perfect for warm summer months. The TravelTek™ EVA sole relieves pressure and stabilizes the foot, and an adjustable slingback strap allows you to customize your fit. This style also comes in five widths — from narrow to extra wide — so you can find ultimate comfort for your foot, whatever size and shape it may be.
Happy customer: “The Teva Tirra sandals are the most comfortable shoes I own. I replace them every few years as they wear out; I’m on my fourth pair now. Great arch support, good adjustable fit, more comfortable than sneakers. I wear them year round except on days when the weather is genuinely too cold for sandals.“
Did you know sandals can be eco-friendly? These Teva Tirras were created from synthetic and plant-based materials, and each pair saves four plastic bottles from ending up in landfills. As if that weren’t enough, they have excellent arch support and are so durable you can wear them on distance walks and hikes. Their multiple adjustable straps will stabilize your foot and allow you to customize your fit. There are 11 colors to choose from — are all beautiful and go with just about anything!
Happy customer: “I love these shoes!!! I have a wide foot and they fit beautifully and look great! Sometimes with a big, wide foot it feels like I’m wearing the shoe box 🙂 These are very attractive, very light weight and have moderate arch support. Thank you Propet! Thank you Zappos!“
Strappy sandals are great for people who suffer from plantar fasciitis — they keep your foot secure and help to avoid the slipping that can cause inflammation. Not only does this style have soft elastic straps for stability, Skechers Reggae Cup sandals also have an adjustable hook-and-loop closure so you can find your perfect fit. They’re great for walkers aiming to hit 10,000 steps, but you can just as easily throw them on for a pain-free trip to the grocery store.
Happy customer: “I wear these every day, everywhere. They cradle my feet so well. The arch support is wonderful. I have knee, feet, and back issues that keep me from walking far without pain. Have been able to walk longer and farther in these sandals with no pain while walking or after.“
Closed-toe sandals are great for summer hikes when you want support, but not an overly-sweaty sneaker. These breathable hiking sandals provide stability and have a quick-lace system for easy adjustments and a secure fit. The rubberized tip keeps your toes protected from the elements and the grippy outer-soles will keep you from slipping in wet conditions. They have ample arch support for those with plantar fasciitis, and the responsive cushioned footbed absorbs shock that eases pressure on your feet and joints.
Happy customer: “These are the best summer shoes I’ve ever owned – the fit is perfect, the arch and footbed padding is fabulous – and I gave them a workout at the beach – they are excellent water shoes – stable, comfortable, and easy to clean up and dry. The colors are great – and after a couple of weeks of hard wear, I cannot find any flaws with these!“
Buy at Amazon, starting at $54.95 (was $139.95)
These multi-seasonal block heels have an adjustable slingback and all the orthotic bells and whistles of other Vionic styles — quality materials and a biomechanically designed footbed that is made specifically for those who suffer from plantar fasciitis. They come in four rich colors and don’t rub when you walk. The footbed is lined with breathable man-made sock fabric, so they can withstand even the stickiest days without causing you to sweat.
Happy customer: “These are the best heels I’ve bought in forever — comfortable with the cushioned sole and the way the straps hold my feet yet don’t crunch my bunion, beautiful in the sexy yet subtle wine colored suede. Thrilled with these shoes.”
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