FAQs: What Are the Best Sandals for Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis can turn something as simple as walking into a painful task—especially in summer, when you want the freedom of sandals. The wrong pair can aggravate your heel pain, but the right sandals can provide comfort, support, and even relief. Below are answers to the most frequently asked questions about choosing the best sandals for plantar fasciitis.

1. What is plantar fasciitis, and why do I need special sandals?

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia—a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot. It usually results in sharp heel pain, especially in the morning or after long periods of standing.

Supportive footwear is crucial because proper arch support, cushioning, and heel stabilization can reduce stress on the plantar fascia and help speed up recovery.

2. What features should I look for in sandals for plantar fasciitis?

Look for sandals with the following features:

Arch support: A defined arch helps reduce strain on the plantar fascia.
Deep heel cup: Helps align your foot and absorb impact in the heel.
Firm yet cushioned sole: Offers shock absorption while maintaining stability.
Contoured footbed: Keeps your foot properly aligned.
Adjustable straps: Ensures a snug fit without pinching or slipping.
Non-flat soles: Avoid completely flat sandals or flip-flops with no support.

3. Are flip-flops bad for plantar fasciitis?

Yes—most basic flip-flops are too flat, thin, and unsupportive to be helpful for plantar fasciitis. However, some brands make orthotic flip-flops with built-in arch support and cushioned soles that are suitable for plantar fasciitis sufferers.

4. What are the best sandal brands for plantar fasciitis?

Here are some top-rated sandal brands that specialize in supportive designs for foot pain:

1. Vionic

Offers podiatrist-designed footbeds.
Great arch support and deep heel cups.
Stylish options that don’t look orthopedic.

2. OOFOS

Known for its ultra-cushioned recovery sandals.
OOfoam™ technology absorbs 37% more impact than traditional foam.

3. Birkenstock

Cork footbeds conform to your feet over time.
Excellent arch support and foot alignment.

4. FitVille

Offers wide-width options and ergonomic cushioning.
Their EasyTop Recovery Sandal V3 has great arch support, adjustable Velcro straps, and a wide toe box—ideal for swollen or painful feet.

5. Hoka One One

Athletic recovery sandals with thick midsoles.
Supportive and shock-absorbing for after long walks or workouts.

6. Teva & Chaco (with podiatrist-grade footbeds)

Some models include contoured insoles and adjustable straps for active wear.

5. Are recovery sandals good for plantar fasciitis?

Yes. Recovery sandals are designed to reduce pressure on your feet, making them a great choice for plantar fasciitis. Brands like OOFOS, Hoka, and FitVille offer recovery sandals that combine shock absorption with arch and heel support.

6. Can I wear sandals all day if I have plantar fasciitis?

You can—as long as the sandals provide sufficient support. Avoid unsupportive flip-flops or flat fashion sandals. Supportive sandals can be worn for all-day use, especially if they have:

Arch support
Cushioned soles
Secure straps
Durable, slip-resistant outsoles

7. Are custom orthotic sandals necessary?

Custom orthotic sandals are not always necessary, but they may be helpful if your plantar fasciitis is severe or caused by other foot conditions (e.g., flat feet, high arches). Many off-the-shelf sandals offer excellent support and are a more affordable starting point.

8. Should I replace my sandals regularly?

Yes. The cushioning and support in sandals break down over time. Replace your sandals every 6–12 months, or sooner if you notice worn-out soles, lack of cushioning, or renewed heel pain.

Final Thoughts

The best sandals for plantar fasciitis combine style with serious support. Look for brands like Vionic, OOFOS, FitVille, and Birkenstock, and prioritize features like arch support, cushioning, and adjustability. With the right sandals, you can enjoy pain-free summer walks, errands, or beach trips—even with plantar fasciitis.