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A genuine problem for hikers is an ailment known as plantar fasciitis. This situation causes severe foot pain while hiking that can stop outdoor lovers from hitting the trail. Plantar fasciitis is a painful ailment, but using the best hiking boots for plantar fasciitis will help hikers to recover and get back on the trail as soon as possible.
Finding the right hiking boots for plantar fasciitis can also help prevent the problem from returning too.
Hiking Boots For Plantar Fasciitis Buyers Guide
In this guide, we’ll start by explaining what plantar fasciitis is, just in case the problem you are experiencing is something else. Next, we’ll explain why hikers tend to suffer from it. Afterwards, I’ll list the key features of the top hiking boots for plantar fasciitis.
We’ll then list our top recommendations and where you can buy them. Finally, we’ll provide you with more information on plantar fasciitis and how to treat or prevent it. You can use our table of contents below to jump straight to a specific section.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar Fasciitis is a heel pain common amongst middle-aged women and men and younger people who spend most of the day standing. People that suffer from Plantar Fasciitis experience piercing and persistent pain in the heel and the foot’s underside.
Where The Pain Is Located
The main area of pain is about four centimeters from the back of the heel area. This area may be quite painful to the touch. It is also extremely uncomfortable when you stand up after resting for long periods. It is a condition many thru-hiker or experienced hikers get, and the pain is worse in the morning. Many hikers think that they have fractured a bone because the pain is so intense.
Why Hikers Suffer From Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar Fasciitis is twice as likely to be found in women as in men and is typically observed in one foot and not the other – although it can occur in both feet. Additionally, athletes, runners, and hikers see a lot of plantar fasciitis. Below are some reasons;
- Hikers will spend a long time on their feet – a common cause of this ailment.
- Repetitive strain on the heel from walking.
- Tight Achilles tendon and calves after long hikes.
- You hike with inappropriate footwear.
- Worn out and old footwear past its best.
Also, you can be more susceptible to Plantar Fasciitis with any of the following;
- You have very flat feet.
- Your feet excessively pronate (roll inward).
- Your legs are different lengths.
- You have high arches.
What Type Of Hiking Boots For Plantar Fasciitis Is Best
Unfortunately, there is no single pair of boots that will be the magical footwear for everyone. However, consider the key features when picking your hiking boots.
- Arch support underneath for stability and foot control.
- Wider heel cup.
- Cushioning support in the midsole.
- Rigid sole in the middle.
- Flexible at the toe area.
- Ankle support around the foot for better stability on the trail.
- Removable insole that can be changed.
It is advisable to rest up and heal if you have severe plantar fasciitis. However, if you have recovered, find the right footwear and help prevent it from returning.
Best Women's Hiking Boots For Plantar Fasciitis
In this section, we’ll give you our top pick for Women’s hiking boots forplantar fasciitis. All boots have been fully researched and checked for quality.
Merrell Women's Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
- Merrell air cushion in the heel absorbs shock and adds stability
- Targeted heel cushioning improves overall comfort by reducing stress on your foot
- Give great ankle support
- Supportive for your heel cup and arch
- Removable insole and suede leather and mesh upper. Protective rubber toe cap. Molded nylon arch shank
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
KEEN Women's Terradora 2 Waterproof Mid Hiking Boot
- Dual-density EVA footbed with arch support
- The stability shank delivers lightweight support on uneven trails
- KEEN’s KonnectFit heel-capture system for a locked-in feel on the foot
- Breathable mesh lining and removable insoles
- Built on a women’s specific foot form for a more narrow and precise fit
- KEEN.DRY, a waterproof, breathable membrane
- Boot is not stiff but is very stabilizing
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Salomon Women's X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boot
- Maximizes stability and cushioning, while minimizing fatigue on rugged terrai
- Holds your foot in place during technical descents, and prevents slippage so you can enjoy a more stable and safer hike
- Will hold the arch up well with very good support.
- One of the most comfortable hiking boots you can find
- Nice and lightweight at 14 Ounces, so they wont weigh you down on the trail.
- Built with Gore_tex and are waterproof
- Salomon 2 year limited warranty
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
KEEN Women's Voyageur Mid Hiking Boot
- 100% leather and mesh for sturdy foot support
- Water resistant leather upper
- Removable metatomical dual density EVA footbed
- Nice big toe box for your feet to lay in
- One owner commented I have plantar fasciitis in one foot and require good arch support. These hiking boots are perfect.
- Plenty of ankle support and stability in the outsole of the boot
- Comfortable out-the-box, no break in timeis needed
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus
- Long-lasting comfort, superior cushioning, and high energy return as well
- Waterproof
- Uses a traditional lace-up closure for an adjustable, secure fit.
- Many revuwers complimented the arch support and comfort of this boot
- The best selling hiking boot on Amazon
- Budget friendly option - good for casual hikers, weekend and vacation hikes.
- Even though users have said they work good on longer hikes, I think there are better options
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Best Men's Hiking Boots For Plantar Fasciitis
Now it’s time for our top picks of men’s hiking boots for plantar fasciitis. Again,likewith our women’s picks, these boots were selected for heel and arch support, stability, comfort and value for money.
Merrell Men's Moab 2 Vent Mid Hiking Boot
- Targeted heel cushioning on the Moab 2 improves comfort and reduces foot stress fromground impact
- Durable Vibram rubber sole provides grip on trail hikes
- Available in standard or wide option - good for those who wear thicker socks or layer their socks
- The toes box is a good size
- Popular hiking boot with many reviwers praising the ankle and arch support
- 100% suede leather and mesh
- Supportive footbed
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Salomon Men's X Ultra 4 Mid GTX Hiking Shoe
- Latest Salomon ULtra hiking boot
- Gore-Tex waterproof hiking shoes are designed for maximum traction on all terrains.
- Targets articulations on the outer foot to optimize stability.
- Protective Heel Cup - For rearfoot stability and protection
- Cradles the foot by providing a precise, supportive and secure fit.
- Absorb shocks instantly and effectively, preventing them from causing any damage to the sole of the foot
- The OrthoLite sockliner is extremely comfortable
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
KEEN Men's Targhee II Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
- Rubber outsole provides high-traction grip in all environments
- KEEN dry waterproof and breathable membrane
- Dual density compression molded EVA midsole
- The toe box is wider than most similar boots with excellent mid arch support.
- Users have said the arch support is better on this model than the newer model.
- Secure fit with padded tongue and collar
- Design provides excellent arch support and cradles to the natural contours of the foot
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Asolo Men's Fugitive GTX Hiking Boot
- Duo Asoflex midsole combines 2 elements -The first benefits anti pronation, anti supination and anti torsion. The second ea softer material offers shock absorption when hiking
- Outsole is a combination of bi-density rubber bottom for cushion and traction
- Great support around the ankle
- Vibram outsole
- Gore-Tex waterproofining membrane
- Loyal following amongst experienced hikers
- Durable and built to last
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Merrell Men's Moab 2 Mid GTX Hiking Boot
- Another very popular and much loved model from Merrell
- Outsole is a combination of bi-density rubber bottom for cushion and traction
- GORE-TEX waterproof membrane
- Super light, good support, and excellent traction
- Support in the arch and heel.
- Shank provides extra support
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Best Hiking Boots For Plantar Fasciitis Summary
Remember, we are all different. We all have different-shaped feet, so different things will work for different people. There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the plantar fasciitis in hikers. In addition, we all have different budgets; that is why when compiling our list, I included a good range of lower, mid-range, and high-end models.
Try to take care of your foot pain you experience while hiking; take a day off if you can. Your body and health come first, and it is paramount to listen to what your body is telling you. When you have recovered, the great outdoors will still be waiting for you, so there is no need to rush recovery.
While the tips and suggestions we have mentioned should start you off on the right foot, we recommend you talk to your doctor, especially if the pain worsens.
Tanks for taking the time to read our article. Keep going for some more keep and advice on dealing with Plantar Fasciitis. If you are new to hiking you might be interest in our Planning Your Hiking Trip Guide. You might also want to read our other gear articles, including waterproof socks for hiking and running.
Tips For Hikers With Plantar Fasciitis
Should You Stop Hiking?
The safest way to cure plantar fasciitis is to stop hiking for an extended time, like over the winter. It will depend on the severity, though; some people will heal faster than others. If you are a weekend hiker, consider taking a couple of weekends off and then testing your feet with a shorter hiker after a break.
While it is certainly possible to temporarily reduce the pain, you need to give your body time to heal and take steps to avert a recurrence. A new pair of boots with a sounder arch and heel support will help. If you are in the middle of a thru-hike, we know this might not be possible, so consider taking some extra rest days.
What Can You Do To Fix Plantar Fasciitis
Always speak to your doctor if you have any questions, but rest is best. You might also want to consider some more specialized insoles Superfeet has different models with different degrees of firmness and arch support. We now have an article on the best hiking insoles for plantar fasciitis for you to look at. You could also try some hiking socks with arch support for an extra boost.
If you are able, try to lose some weight: either body weight or pack weight. It will help decrease the impact of stress on your feet. Maybe go on shorter hikes, where you do not need as much gear.
- Helps support the foot during high-impact activities and long distances
- The soft, bouncy foam at forefoot provides great shock absorption during hiking and walking
- High impact foam forefoot
- Perfect for plantar fasciitis suffers
- Podiatrist recommended
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
At Home Treatment Tips For Plantar Fasciitis
If the problem is new, you can usually ease the pain yourself, but see a doctor if the pain does not improve within two weeks.
- Rest and elevate your foot when you can.
- Use an ice pack on your feet to reduce any swelling.
- Has the problem persisted for more than 6 months? If so, wear a plantar fasciitis night splint or brace when you sleep.
- Try to wear wide comfortable everyday walking shoes with a low heel and soft insole
- Use supportive insoles in your shoes.
- Use a slant board to exercise and stretch your muscles.
Plantar Fasciitis Stretches & Exercises Video
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