Style Footwear Sneakers
Zoe Weiner
Zoe Weiner
Updated September 11, 2023
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When you're dealing with foot pain, it can almost always be traced back to the shoes or sneakers (or in some cases, a lack thereof) you've been wearing. But, with the ever-growing variety of shoes on the market, it can be tough to know what type of shoe will remedy your foot and toe woes. Luckily, we spoke with a few podiatrists who answer questions like this every single day. If you're wondering what the best sneakers for foot pain all have in common, read on.
The best sneakers for foot pain at a glance:
- Best for running: ASICS, Gel-Kayano 28, $160
- Best for all foot types: New Balance, Fresh Foam X 880v13, $140
- Best for flat feet: Saucony, Triumph 20, $160
- Best for walking: Hoka, Bondi 8, $165
- Best breathable: Brooks, Ghost 15, $140
- Best for arch support: New Balance, Made in USA 990v5, $150
- Best sustainable: ON, Cloudstratus 3, $180
In This Article
-
01
What causes foot pain? -
02
What the experts suggest -
03
Best sneakers for foot pain -
04
How to choose -
05
FAQ
Experts In This Article
- Miguel Cunha, DPM, podiatrist and founder of Gotham Footcare
- Nadia Martineau, DCh, licensed chiropodist and owner at Aurora Newmarket Foot Clinic
- Nelya Lobkova, DPM, board-certified podiatrist and founder of Step Up Footcare
What causes foot pain?
There are a handful of reasons our feet decide to get cranky—cold weather or a job where you’re standing all day are a couple of common culprits. But, when it comes to our shoes, lack of support and poor fit can lead to plantar fasciitis, a condition that occurs when the fascia—aka connective tissue—within the base of your foot becomes inflamed and uncomfortable. Usually, this comes about because your feet areoverpronating—aka rolling inwards—as you move, which means you need a shoe with superior arch support (check out these sneakers with arch support) to combat the pain.
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What to look for in shoes when you have foot pain, according to experts
Overpronation is also commonly referred to as flat feet, and according to pros, there are certain elements that people with this issue should be looking for in their shoes. Here are a few key elements to consider:
Firm midsoles
The best shoes for sore feet also provide cushioned support in the midsole to prevent the plantar fascia from caving in. If you’re not sure if your current sneaks meet this requirement, New York City Podiatrist Dr. Nelya Lobkova, DPM at Step Up Footcare, says the best way to test for a rigid midsole is to hold the front of the shoe with one hand and the back of the shoe with the other. When you try to twist the shoe side to side, there should be minimal to no twisting motion.
Roomy toe boxes
This one may seem obvious, but cramped toes can lead to a range of foot issues, such as hammer toes or Morton’s neuroma1. More space and flexibility in the toe area allows your foot to move and bend naturally.
Midfoot rockers
Dr. Lobkova also recommends a sneaker with a midfoot rocker, which ensures less pressure or impact on the heel by increasing the shock absorption of the midfoot. The rocker allows for a more efficient transfer of weight from the heel to the ball of the foot during the standing part of the gait cycle, which reduces the overstretching of the plantar fascia band during activity. Also worth noting: if you have heel pain, Dr. Lobkova advises against lightweight (less than 9 oz) sneakers, as they are more flexible and less stable for the feet.
Rigid heel counters
Another recommendation from Dr. Lobkova is to look for shoes with a sturdy, stabilizing heel. And, while prioritizing rigidity might sound counterintuitive, research from 20222 suggests that additional support in the heel helps absorb the shock from your steps and prevents issues like plantar fasciitis.
There are three brands in particular that TikTok famous podiatrist Nadia Martineau constantly recommends for people dealing with foot pain. In a recent video, she named Asics, New Balance, and Saucony as the makers of the most superior plantar fasciitis-fighting footwear money can buy. Keep scrolling to shop our experts' recommendations of the best sneakers for foot pain.
7 of the best sneakers for foot pain
Best for running: ASICS, Gel-Kayano 28 — $160.00
Women’s sizes: 5—12
Men’s sizes: 8—15
Width options: Standard, Narrow, Wide
Colors: 15
Returns: Standard 30-day free returns with Amazon
We write about a lot of shoes on this website, but none come as highly recommended as these ultra-supportive running sneakers from Asics. “Runners will find this sneaker to have superior comfort that enhances the foot’s natural gait from heel strike to toe-off,” Miguel Cunha, a board-certified podiatrist, previously told Well+Good.
“This shoe is designed with rearfoot and forefoot gel technology that provides superior cushioning and shock absorption. This shoe incorporates exceptional durability and lightweight materials with a medial extension from the midsole to the heel for increased motion control. Last but not least, these sneakers include an additional three millimeters of midsole height to decrease tension placed on the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon,” adds Dr. Cunha.
These Asics running shoes are also great for people with flat feet (aka overpronators, who are the most at risk for plantar fasciitis) because of the arch stability they offer. Plus, they’re available in wide and narrow styles as well.
Pros
- Mesh upper for breathability
- Heel counter to keep foot stable
- Maximum cushion
Cons
- Not all color options available for wide or narrow sizes
Women’s sizes: 5—13
Men’s sizes: 7—16
Width options: Standard, Narrow, Wide, X-Wide
Colors: 6
Returns: Free returns within 45 days, in new condition
Arch support aside, wearing shoes that are too small can cause foot pain that sticks around long after you untie your laces. And even if the size is technically right, if your sneaks are too snug from side to side, you’ll likely be left with problems.
New Balance’s shoes are designed with flexible fabric and wide toe boxes, which make for “comfortable lateral movement,” says Dr. Cunha. This style is made with ultra-supportive foam that’s great for stabilizing high arches and comes in regular and wide sizing so that there’s a perfect fit for every foot. Also worth noting: if you’re hoping to find some winter sneakers this style also comes in a waterproof design.
Pros
- Mesh upper for breathability
- Dual-layer midsole
- Strategic zones for support
Cons
- Shorter laces
- Less color options
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Best for flat feet: Saucony, Triumph 20 — $160.00
Women’s sizes: 5-12
Men’s sizes: 7—15
Width options: Standard, Wide
Colors: 15
Returns: Standard 30-day free returns with Amazon
Dr. Martineau is a big fan of Saucony’s shoes, and this pair, in particular, has landed a superb rating for the support it offers to flat feet. It’s made with lightweight cushioning that forms to your foot (the brand describes it as “a bucket seat for your foot”), making the fit as close to custom as you can possibly get.
Pros:
- Plush and responsive cushion
- Hugs the foot
- Neutral support
Cons:
- May run small
Women’s sizes: 5-12
Men’s sizes: 7—16
Width options: Standard, Wide, X-Wide (Men’s only)
Colors: 20+
Returns: Free returns within 30 days, even if you’ve worn them
Hoka is known for super cushioned shoes, and these are no exception. In addition to plush cushioning, they have a memory foam collar to fit snug around your feet, a 6mm drop, and water-resistant leather and slip-resistant outsole to keep up with you all year long. If you experience sore feet, these shoes have great cushioning for the concrete streets and distance walking, says Dr. Lobkova.
Pros:
- Early stage meta-rocker
- Plush cushion
- Neutral support
Cons:
- Priciest option on this list
- May be too clunky for some
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Women’s sizes: 5—13
Men’s sizes: 7—15
Width options: Standard, Narrow, Wide, X-Wide
Colors: 20+
Returns: Free returns within 90 days, even if you’ve worn them
Dr. Lobkova says Brooks is a brand known for their cushioned and supportive shoes. The Ghost model has been a fan-favorite with runners for years thanks to their neutral support and generous cushion. They have a stabilizing heel counter, wide toe box, and a breathable mesh upper made with recycled materials to keep your feet cool. Plus, Brooks offers a 90-day test period so you can try them out for yourself and return them for free if they’re not a fit.
Pros:
- Designed for stability & cushion
- Uses recycled materials
- Lots of color & width options
Cons:
- Not all colors available for all width options
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Women’s sizes: 5—13
Men’s sizes: 7—16
Width options: Standard, Narrow, Wide, X-Wide
Colors: 5
Returns: Standard 30-day free returns with Amazon
With retro style but modern technology, these New Balance sneakers will look and feel great on your feet. They have a firm midsole and mesh upper for breathability to keep you cool whether you’re running or walking. Dr. Lobkova says they offer good cushioning and an Ortholite insole for mild arch support, too.
Pros:
- Midsole cushioning & support
- Foam collar for comfort
- Suede & mesh upper
Cons:
- Limited color options
- Suede may be a dealbreaker for vegans
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Best sustainable: ON, Cloudstratus 3 — $180.00
Women’s sizes: 5—11
Men’s sizes: 7—14
Width options: Standard sizes only
Colors: 4 options
Returns: Within 30 days, in new condition and in original packaging
The ON Cloutstratus have maximum cushioning for comfort whenever you move, a wide forefoot, and an 8mm drop. They’re wide, supportive sneakers for everyday walking, says Dr. Lobkova. Not only are ON’s some of the best shoes for foot pain, but they’re also some of the most eco-friendly with about 75 percent recycled materials.
Pros:
- Vertical and horizontal cushioning
- Wide-fitting forefoot
- Maximum cushion
Cons:
- No width options
- Priciest on this list
Things to consider before buying
Width and sizing: Finding the right fit can be tricker for some folks than others. If you know you’ll need a wide or narrow size, or you tend to fluctuate between sizes depending on the brand, you’ll want to be sure to go with a brand that offers a variety of size options.
Materials: For some people, what goes into making your shoes can be just as important as how they feel on your feet. If you tend to run hot, prioritize shoes with breathable mesh and ventilation. If you’re focused on reducing your environmental footprint, consider a brand that prioritizes recycled materials in their design. If you’re vegan, you’ll likely want to avoid designs that use real leather.
Return policy: A quality shoe for foot pain is a bit of an investment. So, if the shoe doesn’t fit, it’s important to know how long you’ll have to return them (and whether there will be a fee or not).
Frequently asked questions
What sneakers are orthopedic?
It’s important to note that while some shoes prioritize comfort and support, the term “orthopedic” isn’t regulated by any one governing body. All of the shoes on this list are podiatrist-recommended, so technically they could be considered orthopedic. However, if you’re experiencing foot pain, it’s always smart to visit your podiatrist for an examination. There they can determine whether you’d benefit from custom orthotics to target your specific pain points.
Why do my feet hurt when I walk?
As our experts mentioned, your current shoes could be causing you pain if they’re a bad fit or lack support. The best support sneakers offer plenty of toe room, midsole support, and heel stabilization—if you’re concerned that a new pair of shoes isn’t going to fix the problem, it’s probably time to visit a podiatrist.
What sneaker brand is good for plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a painful inflammatory condition of the foot and folks who are hoping to treat or avoid it need ample arch support and cushion. Hoka, featured on this list, is one of the most podiatrist-recommended brands for people with plantar fasciitis.
To ditch that foot pain once and for all, follow along with the stretches in the video below:
Well+Good articles reference scientific, reliable, recent, robust studies to back up the information we share. You can trust us along your wellness journey.
- Park, Chul Hyun, and Min Cheol Chang. “Forefoot disorders and conservative treatment.” Yeungnam University journal of medicine vol. 36,2 (2019): 92-98. doi:10.12701/yujm.2019.00185
- Lin, Che-Yu et al. “Biomechanical Effects of Plastic Heel Cup on Plantar Fasciitis Patients Evaluated by Ultrasound Shear Wave Elastography.” Journal of clinical medicine vol. 11,8 2150. 12 Apr. 2022, doi:10.3390/jcm11082150
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Tags: Active Clothing, Footwear, Sneakers
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