Heel pain is a common issue that affects people across various lifestyles and activity levels. Conditions such as plantar fasciitis, achilles tendinitis, and heel spurs are frequent causes of this discomfort, which can become particularly pronounced during activities like standing, walking, or running. A significant contributor to heel pain is wearing improper footwear. Shoes that lack adequate support, cushioning, or a proper fit can worsen or even cause these conditions. To effectively address heel pain, selecting supportive footwear and adopting preventive measures such as regular stretching, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding high-impact activities are crucial. By understanding these factors and choosing the right shoes, individuals can significantly alleviate heel pain and enhance their overall foot health.
This article will explore various aspects of heel pain, including its common causes and how improper footwear contributes to this discomfort. We will provide an in-depth look at the best footwear for preventing and alleviating heel pain, highlighting the key features to look for in supportive shoes. Lastly, we will provide tips on preventive measures and lifestyle changes to help support foot health and reduce heel pain.
The Best 9 Shoes for Heel Pain 2024
Heel pain is a prevalent issue affecting various individuals, regardless of occupation or body type. Common causes include plantar fasciitis, achilles tendinitis, heel spurs, and heel bursitis. Each condition results in discomfort at the bottom or behind the heel, often making morning routines and daily activities painful.
2. What Causes Heel Pain
Heel pain can arise from several factors, particularly when improper footwear is used. The main causes of heel pain include the following:
Achilles tendinitis: This condition results from overuse or excessive stretching of the achilles tendon, most commonly seen in runners and hikers.
Heel bursitis: This is a condition that occurs when the bursa, a fluid-filled cushion at the back of the heel, becomes inflamed due to hard landings or uneven weight distribution.
Heel spurs: These are calcium deposits that form on the heel bone and can cause sharp pain, often associated with plantar fasciitis.
Plantar fasciitis: This involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs from the heel to the toes, leading to sharp pain in the heel and foot.
3. How Do Shoes Help With Heel Pain
Wearing improper footwear is a leading cause of heel pain. Shoes lacking adequate cushioning, support, or a proper fit can exacerbate conditions like plantar fasciitis. Issues arise from shoes that are too loose, tight, or worn out, as well as those not suited for specific activities.
Prevention & Relief Strategies to Prevent and Alleviate Heel Pain
Wear supportive footwear: Shoes with good arch support, cushioning, and a firm heel counter can reduce heel pain. Custom orthotics may also be beneficial.
Practice proper foot care: Regular stretching, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding high heels can help. Opt for low-impact activities like swimming or biking over high-impact exercises.
Use insoles: Insoles or inserts can correct abnormal foot movements and provide additional support.
Other Ways to Prevent Heel Pain
Do warm-ups before any exercise and practice daily stretching techniques to improve calf and leg flexibility.
Keep a healthy weight. Being overweight puts extra strain on your feet and heels.
Avoid high heels and always go for comfy shoes with good support.
Avoid high-impact workouts like running and basketball. Swimming and biking are preferable.
Wear insoles or inserts inside your shoes that will fix abnormal foot movements, helping you diminish the stress on your heel.
Comfortable shoes with arch support, a deep heel cup, a firm heel counter, or heel support are a great choice for reducing foot pain associated with heel pain. The best shoes for heel pain will align your feet to their natural position and evenly distribute your weight across your foot. Thus reducing the pulling of your plantar fascia, which is a primary cause of heel pain.
4. The Best Shoes For Heel Pain
When dealing with heel pain, investing in high-quality shoes that offer proper arch support, cushioning, stability, and other essential features can make a significant difference in your comfort and daily life. Here are key features to consider when selecting the best shoes for heel pain:
Cushioning: When running, both feet are often off the ground simultaneously, so adequate cushioning is crucial to absorb and disperse impact. Shoes with insufficient cushioning are commonly worn by individuals with heel pain, or they might be worn out, especially at the heel. Look for shoes with shock-absorbing technology that provides soft, springy cushioning. This type of cushioning protects both the heel and midsole, helping to absorb shock more effectively and reduce discomfort.
Wide Toe Box: Shoes with a narrow toe box, such as high heels and dress shoes, can restrict toe movement and cause pain in the tendons running from the heel to the toes. Choose footwear with a wide toe box that allows ample room for natural toe movement, ensuring a comfortable and pain-free experience regardless of your activity.
Arch Support: Proper arch support is essential, particularly if you have flat feet and experience heel pain. Shoes with adequate arch support in the midsole help stabilize your ankles and reduce the risk of further damage to the ligaments and tendons. Look for shoes with a dynamic support system in the midsole, such as a triple-density design, and soft yet stable foam for effective impact cushioning.
Stability Features: For some individuals, stability features like medial posts, dual-density midsoles, or shanks can be beneficial. If your shoes do not provide adequate stability, consider using orthotics. These can be purchased from a drugstore or custom-made by a physician to match the specific shape of your foot, offering additional support and comfort.
Elevated Heel: Wearing shoes with slightly thicker heel padding can relieve stress on the Achilles tendon and the area where it attaches to the heel bone. If you experience discomfort in this area, look for shoes with a cushioned heel or an Achilles notch—a small indentation at the back of the shoe that reduces pressure on the Achilles tendon.
Each shoe we highly recommend is engineered with distinct features to cater to individual preferences in stability, cushioning, or space. Explore these options to find the perfect match for foot health and reduced heel pain.
The Best 9 Shoes for Heel Pain 2024
Sovella PF Sandals are an excellent choice for managing and alleviating heel pain due to their specialized design tailored for comfort and support. These sandals are engineered with advanced contoured footbeds and cushioning technology that provides crucial arch support and a secure heel cradle. This design helps to evenly distribute pressure across the foot, reducing strain on the plantar fascia and alleviating discomfort. The shock-absorbing materials in Sovella PF sandals help to cushion each step, minimizing the impact on the heel and promoting a more comfortable walking experience. Additionally, the Sovella Men's PF Velcro Slide has an adjustable strap that ensures a customized fit, which further enhances its effectiveness in relieving heel pain. By combining these supportive elements with ease of wear, Sovella PF sandals offer a practical and effective solution for those seeking relief from the daily discomfort associated with conditions like plantar fasciitis or heel pain.
Ridiculously comfortable cushioning
Contoured footbed with arch support and heel cradle
Slide-style upper
Rebound technology
Weighs about the same as your smartphone
Water-resistant upper
The New Balance 990 v6 stands out as a top choice for heel pain due to its exceptional blend of support, cushioning, and stability. Engineered with advanced technology, this shoe features a robust midsole that offers superior cushioning, which effectively absorbs shock and reduces impact on the heel. The shoe's arch support is designed to stabilize the foot and prevent overpronation, a common contributor to heel pain and plantar fasciitis. Additionally, its lightweight and responsive design enhances comfort during movement, making it ideal for both high-intensity workouts and everyday wear. The 990v6's construction also includes features to control pronation and provide overall stability, which can help alleviate pain not just in the heel but also in the knee, arch, and ball of the foot. For those dealing with various foot issues, including bunions and heel spurs, the New Balance 990v6 offers a well-rounded solution that combines comfort with therapeutic support.
Advanced cushioning with a plush midsole
Built-in arch support to stabilize the foot, offering better alignment
Made with high-quality, breathable materials to keep feet cool and dry
Stability control features
Engineered to be lightweight and responsive without adding extra bulk
Durable construction that offers long-lasting wear
A classic style that combines functionality with a timeless design
The HOKA Bondi 8 is an exceptional choice for alleviating heel pain, thanks to its advanced cushioning and supportive design. This shoe features an extended heel geometry and Metarocker technology that work together to evenly distribute pressure and reduce impact on the heel and ball of the foot. The ultra-soft foam provides unparalleled cushioning, while the pillowed tongue adds an extra layer of comfort to minimize pressure points. With its wide toe box, the Bondi 8 accommodates foot conditions like bunions and hammer toes, ensuring a more comfortable fit. The Bondi 8 is designed to enhance overall foot health and relieve discomfort from heel pain. Its lightweight construction and balanced ride from heel strike to toe-off make it a reliable option for those seeking both comfort and support.
Enhanced signature soft and lightweight foam cushioning
Extended heel geometry that improves pressure distribution
Metarocker technology for a smooth and balanced transition from heel strike to toe-off
Pillowed tongue for maximum comfort
Wide toe box to accommodate a more natural toe splay
Durable and lightweight
The Aetrex Jillian sandal is an outstanding choice for individuals experiencing heel pain, thanks to its thoughtful design and supportive features. The built-in Lynco® orthotic footbed, coupled with memory foam cushioning, offers exceptional support, balance, and alignment, which helps alleviate pressure on the heel. The shoe's adjustable hook-and-loop straps and padded rear strap ensure a customized, secure fit, further enhancing comfort. A metatarsal bar pod reduces stress at the ball of the foot, while the medial support pod addresses overpronation, promoting proper foot alignment. Additionally, the ultra-light midsole provides natural shock absorption to cushion each step, and the antimicrobial technology keeps feet fresh and healthy. Approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association, the Aetrex Jillian Black is designed to offer relief for those suffering from heel pain, plantar fasciitis, and other common foot ailments, making it a top choice for all-day comfort and support.
Built-in Lynco® orthotic footbeds offer superior support, balance, and alignment
Memory foam cushioning for comfort and reducing pressure on the heel
Fully adjustable straps with a padded rear strap for a secure and personalized fit
A Met bar pod reduces stress at the ball of the foot and minimizes overpronation
Ultra-light midsole that provides effective shock absorption
Antimicrobial technology that keeps feet healthy and clean
The Brooks Glycerin GTS 21 delivers exceptional comfort and support, making it an ideal choice for those suffering from heel pain. The innovative GuideRails support system ensures a smooth, stable stride by keeping excess movement in check, which can help alleviate discomfort associated with conditions like plantar fasciitis and heel spurs. Its updated, streamlined upper promotes breathability, adding to overall comfort. With 61.1% recycled materials used in the upper and 3.75 plastic bottles diverted from landfills, the Glycerin GTS 21 is not only supportive and soft but also an environmentally conscious choice. Ideal for road running, this shoe is designed to address and soothe various types of foot pain, including heel, arch, and knee discomfort.
Enhanced DNA LOFT v3 cushioning for increased softness and shock absorption
GuideRails support system for stability and controls excess movement
Streamlined upper for improved breathability
Sustainably made
The Olukai Ohana sandal is a top choice for those experiencing heel pain. The Ohana features a cushioned footbed and anatomically contoured Drop-in Comfort, offering exceptional support and comfort. A non-slip EVA footbed and compression-molded EVA midsole work together to stabilize the foot and absorb shock, helping to reduce heel pain. Additionally, the sandal's water-resistant and quick-drying materials enhance durability and versatility, making it suitable for both beach and everyday use. With its durable outsole providing excellent traction and stability, the Ohana Sandal ensures you stay comfortable and supported throughout your day.
Cushioned footbed for superior support and comfort for all-day wear
Non-slip EVA Footbed for stability and helps absorb shock to alleviate heel pain
Compression-molded EVA midsole for extra cushioning and stability
Water-resistant materials with quick-drying properties
Durable outsole that ensures excellent traction and stability on various surfaces
The Taos Women's Plim Soul sneakers are specifically designed to offer relief for heel pain. Featuring a premium Curves & Pods® footbed, these sneakers include built-in arch and metatarsal support, which helps alleviate pressure and discomfort associated with heel pain. The thicker, higher sidewalls provide additional cushioning and stability, which is essential for reducing impact on the heels. Furthermore, the Silvadur treatment ensures the shoes remain antimicrobial and durable, maintaining comfort over time.
Curves & pods® removable footbed with targeted arch and metatarsal support
Silvadur treated for long-lasting protection against odor and deterioration
Anti-microbial, maintaining a clean and comfortable environment for your feet
The Birkenstock Boston clog is a sought-after choice for those dealing with heel pain due to its thoughtful design and supportive features. The shoe features a cushioned BIRKENSTOCK soft footbed that molds to the shape of your foot, providing custom support and effective shock absorption. This cushioning helps to alleviate pressure on the heel, reducing discomfort from conditions such as plantar fasciitis and heel spurs. The classic suede upper and soft suede footbed lining ensure a comfortable and supportive fit, while the adjustable strap with a metal pin buckle allows for a personalized, secure fit. The flexible and lightweight EVA sole offers additional comfort and stability, making the Boston Clog suitable for all-day wear. With its blend of style and functionality, this clog provides the support needed to alleviate heel pain while maintaining a fashionable appearance.
Cushioned BIRKENSTOCK soft footbed that molds to your foot
Classic suede upper
Suede footbed lining
Flexible and lightweight EVA sole
Adjustable strap with a buckle for a secure, personalized fit
The Dansko Women's Fawna is the perfect choice for those suffering from heel pain due to its thoughtful design and supportive features. The shoe's removable, molded EVA footbed provides optimal arch support and cushioning, which helps alleviate pressure on the heels and reduce discomfort from conditions like plantar fasciitis and heel spurs. The integrated insole, featuring a tuckboard and steel shank, offers additional stability and support, ensuring your feet remain properly aligned and supported throughout the day. With Dansko Natural Arch® technology, the shoe provides contoured arch support, further enhancing comfort and reducing foot strain. The combination of leather and soft textile linings, along with the padded heel collar, ensures all-day comfort, while the rubber outsole delivers durability and long-lasting wear.
Removable molded EVA footbed for optimal arch support and cushioning to alleviate heel pain
Dansko Natural Arch® Technology contoured arch support
Leather and soft textile lining
5. Where to Shop Comfortable Shoes for Heel Pain
Whether you prefer to shop online or in-store, at Lucky Feet Shoes, we have a large selection of the best shoes for heel pain for both men and women. If you prefer personalized shoe fittings and great customer service, you can visit one of our many Southern California locations for a free foot scan and expert advice. Don’t settle for guesswork—let our knowledgeable staff help you find the perfect fit so you can step into comfort and walk pain-free! Find a store.
Why Trust Lucky Feet Shoes?
Whether you prefer to shop online or in-store, at Lucky Feet Shoes, we have a large selection of the best shoes for heel pain for both men and women. If you prefer personalized shoe fittings and great customer service, you can visit one of our many Southern California locations for a free foot scan and expert advice. Don’t settle for guesswork—let our knowledgeable staff help you find the perfect fit so you can step into comfort and walk pain-free! Find a store.
At Lucky Feet Shoes, trust is not just a word; it's the cornerstone of our commitment to our customers. Here's why you can rely on us:
1. Expertise: With years of experience in the footwear industry, our team possesses extensive knowledge about shoes, fit, and foot health. We understand that every foot is unique, and we strive to provide personalized recommendations to ensure the perfect fit.
2. Quality Selection: We handpick every shoe in our collection, selecting only the finest brands and styles known for their quality, comfort, and durability. Whether you're looking for athletic shoes, casual footwear, or specialized orthopedic options, you can trust that our selection meets the highest standards.
3. Exceptional Service: Customer satisfaction is our top priority. From the moment you walk through our doors or visit us online, our friendly and knowledgeable staff are here to assist you every step of the way. We take the time to listen to your needs and preferences, offering personalized recommendations and expert advice to help you find the perfect pair of shoes.
4. Focus on Foot Health: At Lucky Feet Shoes, we understand the importance of foot health and the impact that proper footwear can have on overall well-being. Whether you're dealing with foot pain, arch support issues, or other foot-related concerns, our team can help you find shoes that provide the support and comfort you need.
5. Community Engagement: We are proud to be active members of our local communities, supporting various charitable organizations, events, and initiatives that promote health, wellness, and education. When you support Lucky Feet Shoes, you're not just supporting a business—you're supporting a commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others.
In conclusion, when you choose Lucky Feet Shoes, you're choosing expertise, quality, exceptional service, a focus on foot health, and community engagement. Trust us to help you find the perfect pair of shoes for your needs, and experience the difference that comes from shopping with a company that truly cares about its customers.
Has a passion for shoes and helping people find the correct shoes for their needs. He has over 19 years of experience in the shoe industry.
Connect with Jerick: Jerick@luckyfeetshoes.com | luckyfeetshoes.com
Written by Jerick Sobie
