Best Hoka Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis: Podiatrist Recommended

In general, Hoka shoes are considered good for plantar fasciitis because of their thick layer of foam that absorbs impact while still providing a good level of support.

However, Hoka shoes cannot cure plantar fasciitis; they can only alleviate its symptoms.

According to Dr. Nelya Lobkova, ” Look for extra rigidity in the sole and cushioning of the midfoot while buying a shoe for plantar fasciitis”.

My doctors’ advice helped me finally beat the pain I used to have, and I wrote a piece about how I am dealing with plantar fasciitis.

For sufferers of Plantar Fasciitis, we have listed 7 different types of Hoka shoes, not only approved by doctors/podiatrists but also tested in the field by our experts.

The Best Hoka Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis 2023

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Best Overall

HOKA Arahi 6

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^{WHAT’S NEW With Hoka Arahi 6: Plusher tongue, lighter upper, new midsole color blockings.}

^{Weight: 7.6 oz (Women)/ 9.3 oz (Men) | Drop: 5 millimeters | Materials: J-Frame™ midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Balanced}

Hoka Arahi 6 is a lightweight walking shoe that’s also equipped with great stability. The maximal cushioning of the midfoot has made this one of the best hoka shoes for plantar fasciitis. Wearing this shoe with orthotic can help flawlessly.

Plantar Fasciitis Sufferer Experiences With HOKA Arahi 6: “Plantar Fasciitis has plagued me for years, and I’ve been looking for the perfect shoe for years. The Arahi 6 provides excellent stability and the rocker bottom technology helps reduce the impact on my feet.”

Cushioning: Excellent cushioning with a well-padded midsole, reducing heel and arch pain.

Arch Support: Enhanced arch support, preventing the plantar fascia from overstretching.

Stability: J-Frame technology offers superb stability, easing the strain on the plantar fascia.

Comfort: Soft and comfortable upper, reducing irritation on sensitive feet.

Wide Toe Box: Spacious toe area allows for natural toe splay, decreasing pressure on the plantar fascia.

Break-in Period: Minimal break-in time, comfort felt from the first few wears.

Durability: Quality materials and construction, lasting several months with regular use.

Best For Plantar Fasciitis and flat feet

HOKA Rincon 3

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^{WHAT’S NEW With Hoka Rincon 3: Asymmetrical tongue, thinner pull tab, and a vented mesh upper.}

^{Weight: 7.2 ounces (Women)/ 7.70 ounces (Men) | Drop: 5 millimeters | Materials: Engineered mesh upper, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Responsive but soft}

With its symmetrical cushioning bed, these lightweight neutral running shoes are the perfect companion for all types of runs. Some people recommend going barefoot with plantar fasciitis. But, this shoe is the reason you’ll never want that cause who wouldn’t like to feel comfortable in their feet after all.

Plantar Fasciitis Sufferer Experiences With HOKA Rincon 3: “My plantar fasciitis recently improved with the HOKA Rincon 3. As soon as I ran, I felt relief for my feet thanks to the cushioning. The midsole was supportive, and I didn’t experience any additional pain. The breathable upper also kept my feet cool and comfortable..”

Cushioning: Outstanding cushioning provides excellent shock absorption, reducing stress on the plantar fascia.

Arch support: Moderate arch support helps alleviate flat feet discomfort, promoting a more natural stride.

Lightweight: Despite ample cushioning, the shoe remains lightweight, allowing for comfortable long runs.

Wide toe box: Generous toe box space reduces pressure on the foot, preventing aggravation of plantar fasciitis.

Responsiveness: Good energy return ensures a smooth ride, even for individuals with flat feet.

Durability: Some concerns about outsole wear, but overall, a durable option for daily use.

Best For Plantar Fasciitis and high arch support

HOKA Bondi 8

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^{WHAT’S NEW With Hoka Bondi 8: Amplifying core performance features, the Bondi 8 is upgraded with an extended heel, brand-new foam, and pillowed tongue.}

^{Weight: 10.8 ounces | Drop: 4 millimeters | Materials: Mesh upper, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Maximum}

Bondi 8 features an EVA midsole that provides plush cushioning and a smooth ride. It’s the eighth version of the popular Bondi series from HOKA. Plantar fasciitis can also be caused by wearing these shoes in an inappropriate way.

Also, Meta-Rocker geometry helps to promote a natural gait cycle and a smooth transition from heel strike to toe-off.

Plantar Fasciitis Sufferer Experiences With HOKA Bondi 8: “Since I suffer from Plantar Fasciitis, I was hesitant to test out the HOKA Bondi 8. The cushioning seemed too much for my feet. However, the cushioning was just right, providing a balance of support and softness. In addition to arch support, the shoes relieve foot pain..”

Superior cushioning: Plush, thick midsoles absorb shock, reducing plantar fasciitis’ impact.

High arch support: The Bondi 8 features a well-contoured insole, offering adequate support for my high arches.

Wide toe box: Natural toe splay reduces plantar fasciitis pressure.

Breathable upper: During long runs, the engineered mesh upper provides proper ventilation.

Stability: It prevents excessive pronation despite its cushioning.

Durable: After months of use, the shoe shows minimal wear and tear, a testament to its durability.

Pain reduction: Since using the HOKA Bondi 8, my plantar fasciitis pain has significantly diminished, allowing me to enjoy running again.

Heel counter: The secure heel counter ensures proper heel fit, contributing to the overall support and reducing strain on the plantar fascia.

Slightly heavy: The only minor drawback is the shoe’s weight, but the benefits outweigh this minor issue.

Best Running Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis

HOKA Clifton 9

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^{WHAT’S NEW With Hoka Clifton 9: More stack height, less weight.}

^{Weight: 8.7 oz (Men)/ 7.3 oz (Women) | Drop: 5 millimeters | Materials: Mesh upper, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Balanced}

The recently launched Clifton franchise has reached its 9th iteration and has been bestowed with numerous accolades. It is currently lighter and possesses more cushioning than its previous versions. Believe me, if you lace this shoe properly, you will have to make the shoe look more pretty and your style will change with this. Here’s a short guide on how to lace your shoes for plantar fasciitis.

Plantar Fasciitis Sufferer Experiences With HOKA Clifton 9: “HOKA Clifton 9 running shoes helped me treat Plantar Fasciitis recently. With every step, I feel relief, and the pain is gone! The cushioning is amazing, and the support is outstanding. The HOKA Clifton 9 changed my life for the better, and I highly recommend them to anyone suffering from Plantar Fasciitis.”

Great Arch Support: Noticed reduced pain in the plantar fascia area due to the excellent arch support provided by the shoe.

Cushioning: The ample cushioning helps in distributing pressure evenly, alleviating discomfort during long walks and runs.

Heel Drop: 5mm heel-to-toe drop is suitable for my foot strike, reducing the strain on my plantar fascia.

Stability: The shoe offers decent stability, but could be slightly improved for uneven terrain or sharp turns.

Breathability: The upper mesh provides good airflow, keeping my feet dry and comfortable.

Wide Toe Box: The roomy toe box reduces pressure on the forefoot, minimizing pain for plantar fasciitis sufferers.

Break-in Period: The shoes felt comfortable right out of the box, no extended break-in period was required.

Durability: After a few months of use, the shoe still maintains its cushioning and support, but long-term durability remains to be seen.

Best Hoka Hiking Boots For Plantar Fasciitis

HOKA Anacapa Low GTX

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^{WHAT’S NEW With HOKA Anacapa Low GTX: waterproof nubuck leather, GORE-TEX footwear fabric, Molded PU sock liner.}

^{Weight: 14 ounces (Men) | Drop: 5 millimeters | Materials: Mesh upper, Vibram® megagrip outsole | Cushioning: Balanced}

HOKA Anacapa Low GTX has greatly improved my hiking experience as a plantar fasciitis sufferer. The superior cushioning and arch support provide relief from pain, while the shoe’s traction and waterproofing allow me to confidently tackle various terrains.

Plantar Fasciitis Sufferers Experience With HOKA Anacapa Low GTX Hiking Boot: “Since I’ve suffered from plantar fasciitis for years, the HOKA Anacapa Low GTX Hiking Boot is the best choice for me. It’s lightweight and cushioned, but it also keeps my feet dry, which is important for someone like me. I especially appreciate the boot’s arch support, which keeps my feet in the right position and relieves some of the pain associated with plantar fasciitis.”

Comfort: Superior cushioning, providing relief to my sensitive heels, Arch support felt sufficient, easing the strain on my plantar fascia.

Stability & Traction: Vibram Megagrip outsole provided excellent grip on various terrains, Hiking experience felt stable despite uneven surfaces. Ankle support is not as robust as high-top options, but sufficient for moderate hikes

Waterproofing: GORE-TEX membrane kept feet dry during encounters with water and muddy trails. Breathable material prevented overheating and discomfort

Durability: Well-constructed and sturdy, showing little wear after multiple hikes. The lacing system held up well, with no issues of loosening during hikes.

Fit & Sizing: True to size, providing a secure and snug fit.

Best Hoka Sandal For Plantar Fasciitis

Hoka Ora Recovery Slide 3

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^{WHAT’S NEW With Ora Recovery Slide 3: Four air flow channels for superior breathability.}

^{Weight: 7.8 ounces (All Gender) | Drop: 6 millimeters | Materials: Mesh upper, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Plush}

It’s a highly recommended hoka sandal for plantar fasciitis sufferers in search of a comfortable, supportive sandal for daily walking.

Plantar Fasciitis Sufferers Experience With Hoka Ora Recovery Slide 3: “The Hoka Ora Recovery Slide helped me with my recovery as a Plantar Fasciitis sufferer. My feet benefit from the slide’s cushioning because it reduces impact and soothes pain. Additionally, I can use the slide to do stretches and exercises that strengthen my feet, which helps me to recover faster.”

Instant Comfort: As soon as I slipped into the Hoka Ora Recovery Slide 3, I felt immediate relief for my plantar fasciitis pain.

Arch Support: The well-designed arch support reduces pressure on my plantar fascia, alleviating discomfort during daily walks.

Cushioned Feel: The thick, cushioned sole absorbs shock with each step, significantly reducing the impact on my feet.

Lightweight: The sandals are surprisingly lightweight, making walking for extended periods easier and more enjoyable.

Easy to Clean: The material is simple to clean and maintain, ensuring the sandals stay fresh and comfortable for daily use.

Adjustable Fit: The adjustable strap provides a snug and secure fit, accommodating my foot’s natural shape and size.

Best Shoe For Nurses With Plantar Fasciitis

HOKA ATR 6

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^{WHAT’S NEW With Hoka Challenger ATR 6: Unifi REPREVE® recycled yarn, Toe rand, CMEVA foam midsole, Zonal rubber, 4mm lugs.}

^{Weight: 8.10 ounces | Drop: 5 millimeters | Materials: Engineered mesh upper, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Balanced}

As the name implies, this versatile shoe breaks the rules by delivering an excellent performance both on the trail and on the road. Though it looks like a hiking shoe but it works great for walking as well.

Plantar Fasciitis Sufferers Experience With Hoka ATR 6: “It took me months to find relief from plantar fasciitis. After trying the Hoka ATR 6 for the first time, I noticed a huge difference in my feet and my pain went away. They had the right arch support for my feet, which really helped reduce pressure on my plantar fasciitis.”

Comfort: Greatly appreciated the cushioning and arch support; significantly reduced pain and discomfort during long shifts.

Stability: Felt stable and secure on various surfaces (hospital floors, outdoor walking); good traction.

Fit: Roomy toe box accommodated swelling; snug fit in the midfoot and heel.

Break-in period: Minimal break-in required; shoes felt comfortable right away.

Durability: High-quality materials; withstood daily wear and tear in a hospital setting.

Weight: Lightweight design; didn’t add any extra strain to already tired feet.

Aesthetics: Not the most stylish option, but prioritized comfort over appearance.

Best Training Shoes

HOKA Elevon 2

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^{WHAT’S NEW With Hoka Elevon 2: Asymmetrical tongue, Anatomical support wings, Features a deeper Active Foot Frame}

^{Weight: 10.10 ounces (Men)/ 8.50 ounces (Women) | Drop: 5 millimeters | Materials: Mesh upper, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Plush}

This is the full review of HOKA Elevon 2 shoes from a tennis player who loves training at his playground:

Plantar Fasciitis Sufferer’s Experience With Hoka Elevon 2: “I had been suffering from Plantar Fasciitis for months, and I tried all kinds of treatments. Then I tried the Hoka Elevon 2 and was amazed. They have a fantastic cushioning system that gives my feet the support they need, while also being comfortable enough to wear all day. With these shoes, I have finally found relief from Plantar Fasciitis pain and discomfort.”

Initial impression: Stylish design, appreciated the wide color options.

Shoe sizing: True to size, with a comfortable and secure fit.

Arch support: Excellent, helped alleviate plantar fasciitis pain during play.

Cushioning: Thick and responsive, making lateral movements and quick stops easier on the feet.

Stability: Felt confident and well-supported during aggressive play and quick changes in direction.

Breathability: Adequate, but could be improved for hotter conditions.

Traction: Good grip on various court surfaces, including clay and hard courts.

Durability: Holding up well after several weeks of regular play, with minor signs of wear.

Ankle support: Satisfactory, provided enough support without restricting movement.

Break-in period: Minimal, felt comfortable and ready for action right away.

Overall satisfaction: Highly recommended for tennis players or trainers with plantar fasciitis, providing much-needed support and comfort during play.

A Podiatrist’s Guide to Choosing Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

As a podiatrist, I understand the importance of choosing the right shoes for those suffering from plantar fasciitis. The pain and discomfort associated with this condition can be debilitating, and selecting the proper footwear is essential for alleviating symptoms and promoting healing.

Arch Support

Adequate arch support is paramount for individuals with plantar fasciitis. Shoes should provide firm yet comfortable support for the medial longitudinal arch, helping to distribute weight evenly and alleviate the strain on the plantar fascia. Look for shoes with built-in arch support or consider using orthotic inserts for additional support.

Heel Cushioning

To reduce the impact on your heels while walking or standing, you need proper heel cushioning.

Shoes with ample heel cushioning will absorb shock and lessen the stress on the plantar fascia. Choose shoes that feature a deep heel cup and extra cushioning materials, such as gel or memory foam.

Stability and Motion Control

Shoes with stability and motion control features can help correct excessive pronation, a common cause of plantar fasciitis.

These shoes will have a firm midsole, a rigid heel counter, and medial posting to guide your feet into a more neutral position. This will help reduce the strain on the plantar fascia and relieve pain.

Proper Fit

Shoes that are too tight or too loose can exacerbate plantar fasciitis symptoms. Ensure that there is enough room for your toes to wiggle comfortably and that the widest part of your foot aligns with the widest part of the shoe.

Flexibility and Responsiveness

Although a stable shoe is important, it should still have some degree of flexibility and responsiveness to adapt to your foot’s true-to-life movement.

A shoe that is too stiff can create extra stress on the plantar fascia. Look for shoes that have a proportion between stability and flexibility, allowing for a comfy stride while still offering vital support.

Replace Worn-Out Shoes

Worn-out shoes can lose their supportive and cushioning properties, contributing to plantar fasciitis pain. Regularly inspect your shoes for signs of wear and tear, and replace them as needed to ensure continued support and protection for your feet.

This is just the tip of the iceberg, I’ve written an entirely new article on: “Features to Look for in Hoka Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis” for you to give you more control over what you buy and how you chose that right.