{"id":3564,"date":"2026-06-24T04:36:50","date_gmt":"2026-06-24T04:36:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/relocationtimess.com\/?p=3564"},"modified":"2026-06-24T04:36:50","modified_gmt":"2026-06-24T04:36:50","slug":"the-12-best-shoes-for-heel-pain-from-sneakers-to-sandals","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/relocationtimess.com\/?p=3564","title":{"rendered":"The 12 best shoes for heel pain, from sneakers to sandals"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Our featured picks<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nBrooks Women\u2019s Adrenaline GTS 25 Running Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nOluKai Men\u2019s Moku Pae Boat Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nVionic Women\u2019s Walk Max Wanderer Sandals\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nLems Men\u2019s Switchback Sandals\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\n If you experience chronic heel pain, prioritizing supportive footwear is one of the best decisions you can make for the health of your feet. But with so many shoes out there, knowing where to start can feel confusing. In general, the best shoes for heel pain have arch support, cushioned insoles and stability features, but selecting a pair that works for your needs and lifestyle will likely require some expert assistance.\n <\/p>

Read more Mamdani\u2019s hat-trick in New York, Trump\u2019s hedged bet in South Carolina, and other takeaways from Tuesday\u2019s primaries<\/a><\/p>\n

\n I consulted multiple physicians that specialize in feet for their recommendations on the best shoes for heel pain. Whether you need walking shoes for an upcoming vacation or new running shoes for a 5K, these are the models experts approve of, plus tips on how to alleviate pain during movement.\n <\/p>\n

\n Best sneakers for heel pain\n<\/h2>\n
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Adidas Ultraboost 5X<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nAdidas Women\u2019s Ultraboost 5X Running Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Dr. Navdeep Dhatt, a board-certified podiatrist at Bay Area Foot Care, highlighted two stand-out features that set the Adidas Ultraboost 5X apart from the competition: the brand\u2019s torsion system and its midsoles. The torsion system boosts stability thanks to a sturdy bridge built into the midsoles, which prevents shoes from losing shape during movement. Meanwhile, the midsoles offer moderate, bouncy cushioning. \u201cThe result is a comfortable ride that helps reduce repetitive impact on the heel[s] during walking and daily activities,\u201d Dhatt said. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$180<\/s>\n From $84 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$180<\/s>\n From $108 at Adidas\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$180<\/s>\n From $128 at Zappos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $180 at REI\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nAdidas Men\u2019s Ultraboost 5X Running Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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These road running shoes have durable rubber outsoles to prevent slipping. One feature the experts I spoke with recommend looking for is a moderate or high heel-to-toe drop, because when your heels are elevated, your Achilles tendons and calves experience less pulling force and thus less irritation. The Ultraboost 5X have a 10-millimeter drop, which will certainly keep your heels raised throughout movement. The shoes also have a lace-up closure for added stability. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$180<\/s>\n From $43 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$180<\/s>\n From $108 at Adidas\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$180<\/s>\n From $126 at Zappos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $180 at REI\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nBrooks Women\u2019s Adrenaline GTS 25 Running Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Dr. Mikel Daniels, a podiatrist at We Treat Feet Podiatry, recommends this option for individuals who need supportive and reliable walking or running shoes. They feature Brooks’ GuideRails technology, which Daniels notes is particularly useful if you overpronate or have plantar fasciitis or other \u201coveruse issues,\u201d since it limits any excess foot movement or ankle rolling. For this reason, the Adrenaline GTS 25 are also a good option for individuals who experience joint pain.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $155 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $155 at Brooks\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $155 at REI\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nBrooks Men\u2019s Adrenaline GTS 25 Running Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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These shoes feature soft cushioning that leaves you feeling supported with every step. In fact, they’re constructed so well that they have received the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance for promoting quality foot health. Another feature of note is the ventilated mesh uppers, which offer breathability and stretch to your foot’s natural shape. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $155 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $155 at Brooks\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $155 at REI\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Summer Cartwright\/CNN Underscored<\/figcaption>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\nRelated article<\/span>\nThe best Hoka orthopedic shoes for joint pain, according to podiatrists<\/span>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\n Best casual shoes for heel pain\n<\/h2>\n
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Vionic Uptown Loafers<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nVionic Women’s Uptown Loafers\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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According to Dr. Amy Ross, a board-certified podiatrist at Desert Foot and Ankle, the general lack of support found in many flats and loafers makes them a \u201cnightmare for heel pain,\u201d but these shoes have supportive arches and deep heel cups that promote proper foot alignment. Crafted with leather or suede uppers, depending on which model you buy, these slip-on loafers have earned the APMA seal of acceptance and have removable footbeds, so individuals who need to wear orthotics can easily place their custom support systems inside. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$130<\/s>\n From $64 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$135<\/s>\n From $54 at Zappos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $145 at Vionic\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nVionic Men’s Uptown Loafers\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Dr. Elizabeth Bass Daughtry, a podiatrist and board-certified foot and ankle surgeon who is a member of Vionic’s VioLab team, also recommends these loafers. She said the combination of shock-absorbing cushioning and contoured footbeds with deep heel cups lets them \u201cstabilize the back of the foot and reduce excess heel movement that can aggravate heel pain.\u201d They run true to size, and they come in normal and wide widths. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n From $180 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $180 at Vionic\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nOluKai Men\u2019s Moku Pae Boat Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Thanks to their feet-friendly design, these boat shoes from OluKai are more than just a trendy option. Daughtry highlights the collapsible heels, which make these shoes easy to slip on, as well as the cushioned midsoles and built-in arch support as pain-relieving and stability-boosting features. \u201cThe stable, ‘no-tie laces’ design encourages a more natural, supported stride, helping limit excess pressure on the heel with each step,\u201d Daughtry said. The water-resistant shoes also have breathable mesh uppers, a quick-drying construction and enhanced underfoot grip. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $120 at OluKai\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $120 at REI\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $120 at Zappos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $120 at Backcountry\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nKuru Women\u2019s Roam 2 Atla Slip-On Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Daughtry recommends Kuru\u2019s Roam 2 Atla slip-ons because their patented heel-hugging design relieves the pressure that contributes to heel pain. She said their lightweight and supportive midsoles promote proper foot mechanics and reduce strain on the heels. Because they\u2019re backed by the brand\u2019s Feel Better Promise, you can return them for a full refund within a 91-day period if they don\u2019t work out for you. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $129 at Kuru\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\nRelated article<\/span>\nThe 12 best walking shoes for flat feet, backed by podiatrists<\/span>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\n Best sandals for heel pain\n<\/h2>\n
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Vionic Walk Max Wanderer<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nVionic Women\u2019s Walk Max Wanderer Sandals\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Vionic\u2019s Walk Max Wanderer Sandals stand out as a supportive option, thanks to their arch support, shock-absorbing cushioning and deep heel cups. \u201cThese features help improve foot alignment, absorb impact and provide stability with each step,\u201d Dhatt said. While the adjustable hook-and-loop straps offer a more personalized fit, you can choose from medium and wide widths for precise comfort.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$80<\/s>\n From $70 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $150 at Vionic\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $150 at Nordstrom\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $150 at Zappos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nVionic Men’s Walk Max Wanderer Sandals\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Another APMA favorite, the Vionic Wanderer Sandals have durable rubber outsoles and nitrogen-infused midsoles, which boosts energy return with each step. Choose from leather or canvas styles. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $180 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $180 at Vionic\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $180 at Nordstrom\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $180 at Dick’s Sporting Goods\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Oofos Ooriginal<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nOofos Women\u2019s Oorginal Sandals\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\u201cWalking barefoot on hard floors is a primary trigger for chronic heel pain, making supportive house sandals absolutely essential,\u201d Ross said. She likes Oofos\u2019 Original sandals because the proprietary foam is more shock-absorbent than traditional options, and the arch-cradling footbeds evenly distribute pressure. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$60<\/s>\n From $51 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $60 at Oofos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $60 at REI\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nOofos Men\u2019s Ooriginal Sandals\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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These sandals have rounded, cupped heels designed to enhance shock absorption and stability. While they’re designed with odor-blocked materials, you can throw these sandals into the washing machine any time you want without risk of damage. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$60<\/s>\n From $51 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $60 at Oofos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $60 at REI\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\nRelated article<\/span>\nThe Oofos Ooahh recovery slides are the most comfortable shoes I\u2019ve ever worn<\/span>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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OluKai Ohana<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nOluKai Women\u2019s Ohana Sandals\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Dr. Brandon Haghverdian, an orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon at the Hoag Orthopedic Institute, recommends these sandals for their arch support and cushioning. “They\u2019re a great choice for the beach, casual outdoor activities and situations where the weather calls for sandals over closed-toe shoes,\u201d he said.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $80 at OluKai\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $80 at REI\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $80 at Zappos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nOluKai Men\u2019s Ohana Sandals\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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These bestsellers are made from water-resistant materials and have quick-drying jersey knit liners to boot. While the slip-ons are great for casual wear, they’ll also come in handy on rugged terrain thanks to the patterned outsoles that offer stellar traction. They run slightly large and wide for anyone who needs or prefers a roomier fit. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $80 at OluKai\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $80 at REI\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $80 at Zappos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Lems Switchback Sandals<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nLems Women\u2019s Switchback Sandals\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Daughtry likes these sandals’ contoured footbeds, which mimic the natural shape of your feet, promoting comfortable movement. The lightweight EVA midsoles and minimal 3-millimeter toe drop support your feet\u2019s natural alignment and can reduce stress placed on knees. <\/p>

Read more Podiatrists say these On shoes alleviate joint pain and boost comfort during cardio<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $120 at Lems\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nLems Men\u2019s Switchback Sandals\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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These minimalist sandals are only available in whole sizes, but they have adjustable straps that are easy to tighten around the heels and insteps for a more comfortable fit. They\u2019re crafted with rubber outsoles for durability and traction and have wide toe boxes for comfort. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $120 at Lems\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nVivaia Women\u2019s Emeline Kitten-Heel Sandals\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Daughtry recommends these strappy sandals for a number of reasons. \u201cThe enhanced arch support, moisture-wicking insole and anti-slip outsole help keep your heel and foot stable while walking, and the modest 5-centimeter kitten heel reduces strain by promoting more balanced pressure distribution than a completely flat sandal,\u201d Daughtry said. They\u2019re also anti-microbial and moisture-wicking, thanks to the brand\u2019s SwiftDry technology. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $129 at Vivaia\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nNaot Women’s Pixie Sandals\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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According to Daughtry, the Pixie Sandals’ molding footbeds offer cushioning and shock absorption, which reduces pressure on the heels. She notes that the ankle straps keep your feet secure for improved stability, minimizing strain on your heels. Naot\u2019s sandals have previously been recommended by podiatrists we\u2019ve interviewed for their excellent arch support, which I can also attest to. If you\u2019re in between sizes, the brand recommends sizing up. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$175<\/s>\n From $114 at Nordstrom\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$175<\/s>\n From $114 at Zappos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n Shop at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$175<\/s>\n From $140 at Naot\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n How to choose the best shoes for heel pain\n<\/h2>\n

\n While seeking medical attention should always be your first step for heel pain, wearing the right footwear is crucial for managing discomfort and preventing further irritation. According to the podiatrists I spoke with, anyone dealing with heel pain should keep the following in mind.\n <\/p>\n

\n Shock-absorbing cushion reduces impact\n<\/h3>\n

\n Shoes for heel pain should have ample cushioning to absorb impact on joints and reduce stress on the heels, Dhatt said. The Adidas Women\u2019s Ultraboost 5X Running Shoes she recommends fit this bill. If your heel pain is related to heel pad atrophy, a condition that causes your heel fat pads to thin, prioritizing cushioning is essential, according to Dr. Daniel Cuttica, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon at the Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics. This is also true if your heel pain is tied to plantar fasciitis or heel bone stress fractures, though for these conditions, you should prioritize shoes with arch support and sturdy midsoles. Cuttica notes that your foot shape plays a role when it comes to cushioning, too. \u201cIf you have high arches, look for shoes with more cushion, as the foot is less flexible,\u201d he said.\n <\/p>\n

\n Quality arch support promotes proper alignment\n<\/h3>\n

\n Daughtry said the most important design feature people with heel pain should look for is proper arch support. Ross agreed, adding that robust arch support \u201ckeeps the foot in a neutral alignment, preventing the arch from collapsing under your body weight and pulling tightly on the heel insertion point.\u201d\n <\/p>\n

\n Deep heel cups and sturdy heel counters matter\n<\/h3>\n

\n Ross advises prioritizing shoes with deep heel cups. \u201cA scooped, deep heel cup cradles the heel, controls pronation and physically gathers the foot\u2019s natural fat pad directly beneath the heel for added biological cushioning,\u201d she said. Firm and supportive heel counters are equally important. \u201cThe back of the shoe should be rigid enough to stabilize the heel,\u201d she said. \u201cThis minimizes side-to-side motion and supports the ankle and subtalar joints.\u201d\n <\/p>\n

\n Check the heel-to-toe drop and look for rocker bottoms\n<\/h3>\n

\n Ross recommends looking for shoes with an elevated heel-to-toe drop and rocker soles. \u201cA moderate drop (where the heel sits noticeably higher than the toes) physically shortens and reduces the mechanical tension placed on the plantar fascia with every step,\u201d Ross said. Selecting shoes with slightly elevated heels or a moderate-to-high heel drop (8 to 12 millimeters), can be particularly helpful for individuals with Achilles tendinitis as it reduces stress in the tendon, Cuttica said.\n <\/p>\n

\n Ross said rigid rocker soles also boost comfort by smoothly rolling the feet forward, reducing the total workload on the heels, arches and forefoot joints.\n <\/p>\n

\n Ensure the midsoles are supportive and shock-absorbing\n<\/h3>\n

\n \u201cExcessively flexible shoes often fail to provide enough support for chronic heel pain sufferers,\u201d Dhatt said. That\u2019s why it\u2019s crucial to select shoes that have supportive and shock-absorbing midsoles. \u201cYou need a material that decreases the impact forces of a heel strike, but the foam must remain firm enough that the foot doesn\u2019t sink into an unstable, squishy position,\u201d Ross said. According to Daniels, your shoes should flex at the ball when you bend them instead of folding under the arches. If that\u2019s not the case, you\u2019re more likely to experience collapsed arches and increase strain on the plantar fascia.\n <\/p>\n

\n Consider options with removable insoles\n<\/h3>\n

\n According to Dhatt, shoes with removable insoles allow individuals to use orthotics as needed. Vionic\u2019s Uptown Loafers, recommended by Ross and Daughtry, feature removable insoles that make them a great option for orthotics wearers.\n <\/p>\n

\n FAQs\n<\/h2>\n
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