Are you an adventurous woman who loves the great outdoors, but you’re also suffering from plantar fasciitis? You know how challenging it is to go hiking when every step feels like you’re walking on hot coals. The good news is that you don’t have to give up your passion for hiking because there are plenty of high-quality, comfortable hiking shoes specifically designed for women with plantar fasciitis.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best plantar fasciitis hiking shoes for women that will allow you to hit the trails again without worrying about the pain. So, grab your backpack, and let’s get started!
| Image | Model | Prices |
|---|---|---|
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Salomon X Ultra Pioneer Gore-Tex Women’s Hiking Shoes | |
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Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus | |
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KEEN Women’s Pyrenees Hiking Boot | |
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Merrell Women’s Moab 2 GTX | |
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Berghaus Women’s Expeditor |
Hiking With Plantar Fasciitis
Hiking with plantar fasciitis can be quite challenging, but not impossible. It is important to wear appropriate footwear to prevent further injury and discomfort. When you have plantar fasciitis, you need shoes that provide adequate support, stability, and cushioning to your feet.
It is highly recommended that you choose hiking shoes specifically designed for people with plantar fasciitis. These shoes are designed with features that help to reduce pain and provide support to your arches. They are specially designed to offer maximum comfort while reducing pressure on the heel and arch.
When hiking with plantar fasciitis, it’s important to take things slow and easy. Refrain from over-exerting yourself, and avoid uneven terrain or obstacles that may cause further discomfort. Try to hike on level ground and avoid steep inclines or declines whenever possible.
Make sure to stretch your calves, heels, and arches before and after hiking. Massage your feet regularly to promote blood flow and reduce inflammation. Additionally, consider using pain relief gels or insoles to help manage your plantar fasciitis.
Remember, there’s no need to suffer in silence – be open with your hiking partner(s) about your condition and let them know about your limitations. With the right preparation and footwear, hiking with plantar fasciitis can still be an enjoyable activity.
Best Hiking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis For Women
Salomon X Ultra Pioneer Gore-Tex Women’s Hiking Shoes
The Salomon X Ultra Pioneer Gore-Tex Women’s Hiking Shoes are an excellent choice of footwear for women looking for comfortable and stylish hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis. Its softness and stability make it comfortable to wear for long hours while its remarkable traction performance ensures an optimal grip on various terrains.
One of the key features of these hiking shoes is its low-cut design that provides support to the ankle. The cushion around the ankle ensures optimum support to the plantar fascia, making it a perfect fit for women suffering from plantar fasciitis. The OrthoLite insoles are springy and flexible, making them removable for those who prefer custom-made inserts.
The Salomon X Ultra Pioneer is light in weight, making it easy to carry around on hikes. Its waterproof and breathable mesh is a bonus, ensuring that your feet stay dry and comfortable throughout your hiking experience. The snug fit of these shoes ensures that your feet are warm and comfortable. Additionally, the durable rubber outsole offers excellent stability and grip on abrasive to smooth terrain.
One potential downside to these hiking shoes is that they are not completely waterproof, meaning they are not ideal for deep-water pathways. However, they are perfect for hiking on various terrains.
Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus
The Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus hiking shoes are a great option for women suffering from plantar fasciitis who want comfortable and sturdy footwear for their hiking adventures.
This hiking boot offers superior comfort and is made with a combination of leather, suede, and mesh. This boot features a durable rubber sole and a high lace-up closure for a secure fit. It also features Omni grip traction technology for added grip.
The upper part of the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus hiking boot is made with breathable mesh, so the foot is kept dry. The soles are made with durable, non-slip rubber, and a waterproof design. The upper features full-grain leather and a mesh bootie construction for a comfortable fit. A full-grain leather upper wicks away moisture to keep feet dry.
The best hiking boots for plantar fasciitis should offer both comfort and support. The insoles should be firm, but not overly thick. Soft insoles can cause discomfort and are not supportive enough. Firm insoles provide good support for the heel and ankle, and can reduce pain and swelling. Buying the right hiking boot is an investment in your health and well-being.
KEEN Women’s Pyrenees Hiking Boot
The KEEN Women’s Pyrenees Hiking Boot is a great option for those looking for hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis. The all-leather construction with waterproof/breathable technology provide much-needed protection during any hiking activities. Thanks to KEEN.DRY membrane, one can stay dry in wet conditions while allowing the feet to breathe.
One of the strong points of this hiking boot is the solid metal hardwear, which includes D-rings for lacing. The secure lacing system keeps the feet in place and also helps in descending without any toe smashing issues. Additionally, the anatomically engineered footbed provides excellent arch support and fits well with the natural contours of the feet, offering a comfortable hike.
These boots are easy to maintain and can be cleaned up quite quickly with just a stiff brush and a damp rag, leaving them looking brand new. The removable, metatomical dual-density EVA footbed with arch support ensures that a person’s feet get all the support that they need on any hiking trail while cradling the feet with ease.
When it comes to the fit and design of the KEEN Women’s Pyrenees Hiking Boot, the brand suggests ordering a ½ size larger than usual. The rubber sole and lace-up closure provide a secure and comfortable fit. The only caveat is that it runs a bit smaller than one’s regular shoe size, so getting a proper fit might need extra attention.
Merrell Women’s Moab 2 GTX
The Merrell Women’s Moab 2 GTX is a reliable option for women seeking hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis. The shoe is designed to provide adequate support and traction for those with plantar fasciitis.
The Moab 2 GTX is equipped with a Vibram rubber sole that is durable and has a good grip, allowing the wearer to navigate various terrains with ease. Its EVA midsole and nylon shank provide support for the foot and prevent it from feeling too squishy with each step. Thanks to the higher ankle opening, the shoe provides good lateral support and support for the ankle and heel.
The upper is made of synthetic leather and mesh, which make the shoes breathable to keep feet cool and comfortable. The GORE-TEX waterproof membrane on the mesh offers exceptional waterproof performance, keeping the feet dry in wet conditions.
The Moab 2 GTX has an Eva foam midsole that adjusts to the foot’s shape, providing comfort and arch support. The shoes’ foam liner provides some arch support that can be broken in as the shoes are used over time. Even for hikers with higher arches, these shoes ensure no discomfort and pain due to plantar fasciitis.
One of the most significant pros of the Merrell Women’s Moab 2 GTX is its affordable price, making it more accessible to budget shoppers. The balance between support, comfort, and traction makes it an ideal option for hiking enthusiasts and individuals with plantar fasciitis.
There are, however, a few cons to the Moab 2 GTX. The shoes may require some time to break-in before providing optimal support and comfort. This can be uncomfortable for hikers in the beginning stages. Additionally, the shoe’s toe box may be smaller, which may require the wearer to buy a half size larger than usual.
Berghaus Women’s Expeditor
The Berghaus Women’s Expeditor hiking shoes are an excellent choice for those with plantar fasciitis, thanks to their sturdy performance features and comfortable fit. These boots are built to last and can handle a variety of terrains, making them perfect for everyday trekking and long hikes.
One of the most notable features of the Expeditor is its waterproof guarantee, which ensures that your feet stay dry even in the wettest conditions. The fully waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex performance lining keeps your feet comfortable and free from water damage, while also preventing any unwanted odors or moisture buildup.
The synthetic outer material is durable and able to withstand the wear and tear of rough trails, while the flat heel type and rubber sole provide excellent traction and stability. The lace-up closure is easy to adjust and ensures a secure fit that keeps your foot in place, reducing the risk of slips or falls.
One potential drawback of the Expeditor is its narrow last shape, which may put undue pressure on the toe area for some wearers. While this may not be an issue on easier trails, it could become problematic when navigating off-road areas with rough terrain, rocks, or roots.
How to choose hiking shoes if you have Plantar Fasciitis
If you have plantar fasciitis, you know that your feet need specialized care and protection when you’re hiking. Not all hiking shoes are created equal, so you want to be sure to choose a pair of hiking shoes that will meet your specific needs. Here are the most important features you need to consider:
- Heel: As mentioned earlier, people with plantar fasciitis often experience stabbing pain in the heel. Therefore, good hiking boots must have enough padding in the heel area to provide pain relief. Don’t compromise on this feature.
- Outsole: The outsole of your hiking shoes must provide excellent traction and stability, especially if you’re hiking on rough or slippery terrain. Look for shoes with a durable and sturdy outsole that can withstand different terrains.
- Weight: The weight of your hiking shoes matters a lot, especially when you have plantar fasciitis, which can make your feet feel heavy and sluggish. Go for lightweight shoes that won’t weigh you down but still feel supportive and comfortable.
- Comfort: When it comes to hiking, comfort is king, especially for people with plantar fasciitis. Look for hiking shoes with extra cushioning and shock-absorbing features that can provide maximum comfort and support to your feet.
- Cushion: The cushioning of your hiking shoes is a critical factor in protecting your feet from pain and discomfort. Choose shoes with good cushioning systems, especially in the midsole and heel areas.
- Arch Support: Arch support is crucial if you have plantar fasciitis. Shoes with proper arch support can reduce the pressure and strain on your feet, provide shock absorption, and prevent injuries.
When you are looking for hiking shoes for plantar fasciitis, it’s essential to keep these factors in mind. Doing so will ensure that your hiking experience is as comfortable and pain-free as possible. Remember to prioritize your plantar fasciitis needs over style and personal preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What activities make plantar fasciitis worse?
If you have plantar fasciitis, high-impact activities like running, jumping, or playing football or soccer can make your condition worse. The constant pounding of the feet on the ground can cause inflammation and intense pain in the plantar fascia. It is best to avoid these activities and opt for low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling that won’t put as much stress on your feet.
Who is prone to plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis can affect anyone, but it is more common among middle-aged people, pregnant women, athletes, and individuals whose profession requires standing or walking for long periods. People who are overweight or have tight calf muscles or high arches are also more prone to developing plantar fasciitis.
What Is the Difference Between a Regular Shoe and a Plantar Fasciitis Shoe?
A regular shoe is designed for general use, while a plantar fasciitis shoe is specifically designed to provide appropriate support, cushioning, and stability to help alleviate foot pain caused by plantar fasciitis. The key difference between the two is that plantar fasciitis shoes have features such as arch support, heel and ankle padding, and shock-absorbing soles that aim to reduce tension and pressure on the plantar fascia. This targeted design can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis and prevent the condition from worsening.
Should you wear a walking boot for plantar fasciitis?
Yes, you should consider wearing a walking boot for plantar fasciitis if the pain is severe and other treatment methods are not providing relief. Walking boots can provide additional support and cushioning to alleviate the pressure on the plantar fascia, reducing pain and promoting healing. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if a walking boot is the right treatment option for your individual condition.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to finding the best hiking shoes for women with plantar fasciitis, it’s all about the right balance of comfort, support, and durability. From our research, Salomon X Ultra, Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus, KEEN Women’s Pyrenees Hiking Boot, and Merrell Moab 2 Waterproof Hiking Shoes are among the top choices that deliver all these features.
However, keep in mind that what works for one person may not work for another, so always try on several pairs of shoes before making a final decision. Remember, investing in the right pair of hiking shoes will not only enhance your outdoor experience but also protect your feet from long-term damage. So don’t compromise on quality when it comes to your foot health. Happy hiking!
My name is Maria. I am a fitness instructor by morning/evening, & an avid reader & fitness coach when I can fit it in. I write about being a new mom, a fitness instructor, a wife, and a lover of life!