Plantar fasciitis is a major issue among us hikers.
We tend to use out feet a lot. As a result, many hikers suffer from plantar fasciitis in one or both the legs.
In simple terms, plantar fasciitis is pain in the bottom of your feet when you stand, walk, run or jog.
Best Hiking Boots for Plantar Fasciitis – Quick Pick
If you’re in a hurry, here are our two favorite hiking boots for plantar fasciitis in this review.
- Timberland White Ledge Men’s Waterproof Boots – Editor’s Choice for 2019 (best Value for the Money)
- Breeze 2.0 Gore-Tex Waterproof Hiking Boots – (Waterproof, Extremely breathable and Shock absorbing)
When a person strains the ligament supporting the arch of the feet repeatedly, tiny tears are caused in the ligament. This leads to pain, swelling, irritation and weakness in the feet.
Plantar fasciitis is also very common among non-hikers.
There are many causes of plantar fasciitis including being overweight, rolling the feet inward too much while walking, putting too much pressure on the feet, making usage of feet a lot and so on.
Among such causes is also wearing the wrong type of shoes.
You always want to wear the correct shoes to prevent plantar fasciitis. And in case you already suffer from it, you STIILL want to wear the correct shoes so that your condition does not aggravate.
In this article, we will be talking about and recommend the 10 best hiking boots for plantar fasciitis.
Table of Contents
- The 10 Best Hiking Boots for Plantar Fasciitis in 2019
- 10 Best Hiking Boots for Plantar Fasciitis Review in 2019
- 1. Timberland White Ledge Men’s Waterproof Boots
- 2. Timberland Men’s Chocorua Trail Gore-Tex Mid Hiking Boots
- 3. Vasque Men’s Breeze 2.0 Gore-Tex Waterproof Hiking Boots
- 4. Merell Men’s Moab Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots
- 5. Timberland Men’s Flume Waterproof Boots
- 6. Salewa Men’s ALP Trainer Mid GTX Technical Approach Shoes
- 7. Salomon Quest 4D GTX Hiking Boots
- 8. Hi-Tec Men’s Altitude IV Waterproof Hiking Boots
- 9. The NorthFace Hedgehog Fastpack GTX Hiking Shoes
- 10. KEEN Men’s Targhee II Mid WP Hiking Boots
- Comparison Table of Best Hiking Boots for Plantar Fasciitis
- Why are the Right Hiking Boots Important for People with Plantar Fasciitis?
- How to Choose the Right Boots for People with Plantar Fasciitis?
- The Best Pick
The 10 Best Hiking Boots for Plantar Fasciitis in 2019
10 Best Hiking Boots for Plantar Fasciitis Review in 2019
Now let us jump right into the list of the 10 best hiking boots for plantar fasciitis which I have personally tested and reviewed for you all. Enjoy!
1. Timberland White Ledge Men’s Waterproof Boots
The Timberland White Ledge Men’s Waterproof Boots are the first pair of hiking boots for plantar fasciitis that we will be discussing in this article. These boots are made from a combination of leather and textile.
These boots have a rubber sole. The shaft of the boots is approximately 4.75 inches from the arch.
The Timberland White Ledge Men’s Waterproof Boots have an oiled leather finish which has given them a very classy and stylish look. You can wear these boots in all kinds of weather and climates.
The Timberland White Ledge Men’s Waterproof Boots feature removable dual density EVA foot bed which helps to absorb shock and provides a soft and cushiony platform for your feet. These boots are very comfortable and also lightweight.
The Timberland White Ledge Men’s Waterproof Boots have multidirectional traction lugs which offer excellent grip and traction for all kinds of terrains. These boots are flexible as well.
The BSFP support system of the Timberland White Ledge Men’s Waterproof Boots allows people with plantar fasciitis to do all kinds of activities, be that running, hiking or climbing, with ease.
Another characteristic of the Timberland White Ledge Men’s Waterproof Boots which makes these boots ideal for plantar fasciitis is that they are waterproof and will keep your feet dry and warm at all times.
The Timberland White Ledge Men’s Waterproof Boots have padded collar and gusseted tongue. These boots were also featured in my “The Best Hiking Boots for Wide Feet Men and Women” list. So, if you have wide feet, then you are more in luck.
The durability of the Timberland White Ledge Men’s Waterproof Boots is quite in question for me because my father’s pair of these boots have been working great since that last 5 years. However, my personal pair has started to show some signs of wear and tear in some places after only some months of usage.
Another shortcoming I have found in these boots is that they do require quite a bit of time to break in.
Nevertheless, the Timberland White Ledge Men’s Waterproof Boots are one of the best hiking boots for people with plantar fasciitis. They come for a decent price range and you should definitely give them a try.
Watch Review:
Features I like:
- Stylish
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
- Waterproof
- Flexible
- Great for all kinds of weather
2. Timberland Men’s Chocorua Trail Gore-Tex Mid Hiking Boots
The Timberland Men’s Chocorua Trail Gore-Tex Mid Hiking Boots are a hybrid of leather and textile. They have a synthetic sole.
The shaft of these boots measures 5 inches from the arch whereas the heels measure 1 inch each.
The Timberland Men’s Chocorua Trail Gore-Tex Mid Hiking Boots are equipped with premium full-grain waterproof leather which along with the seam-sealed construction of these boots allow you to wear these boots in all kinds of weather. As a result, these boots will keep your feet warm and dry all the time.
This leather upper is also abrasion resistant. It has also added to the durability of these boots.
The Timberland Men’s Chocorua Trail Gore-Tex Mid Hiking Boots provide a natural foot settling position to your legs. These boots have a great fit as well.
The Timberland Men’s Chocorua Trail Gore-Tex Mid Hiking Boots are breathable. They have padded collar and tongue, along with secured lacing system.
The removable dual density EVA foot bed has made the Timberland Men’s Chocorua Trail Gore-Tex Mid Hiking Boots extra cushiony and comfortable.
The rubber lug outsole offers excellent traction for all kinds of surfaces. The moisture wicking lining in these boots helps to keep your feet dry all the time.
The Timberland Men’s Chocorua Trail Gore-Tex Mid Hiking Boots are lightweight. They are great right out of the box and do not require breaking in.
These boots come for a reasonable price range and are worthy of a try.
Watch Review:
Features I like:
- Abrasion resistant
- Durable
- Waterproof
- Breathable
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
- Great fit
- Do not require breaking in
3. Vasque Men’s Breeze 2.0 Gore-Tex Waterproof Hiking Boots
The third pair of hiking boots on our list is the Men’s Breeze 2.0 Gore-Tex Waterproof Hiking boots by Vasque. They are made from leather and are one of the most breathable hiking boots in this list.
The Vasque Men’s Breeze 2.0 Gore-Tex Waterproof Hiking Boots feature abrasion resistant air panels. The Gore-Tex with extended comfort technology has made these boots waterproof and lightweight.
The Vasque Men’s Breeze 2.0 Gore-Tex Waterproof Hiking Boots provide excellent heel and arch support. The molded rubber toe cap provides comfort, and protects your toes from shocks.
The dual density EVA foot bed also helps in shock absorption. The nylon wicking mesh of these boots aids in keeping your feet dry.
The Vasque Men’s Breeze 2.0 Gore-Tex Waterproof Hiking Boots have a shaft of 6 inches from the arch. The heels measure 1.25 inches and the platform measures 0.75 inches.
The Vibram outsole of the Vasque Men’s Breeze 2.0 provides optimum grip, stability and traction in order to allow you to walk in all kinds of surfaces with ease and comfort.
Oh, and these babies are good looking as well! So, hurry up and buy a pair of these beauties for yourself.
Watch Review:
Features I like:
- Excellent grip
- Extremely breathable
- Abrasion resistant
- Shock absorbing
- Great arch and heel support
- Stylish
4. Merell Men’s Moab Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots
The Merell Men’s Moab Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots are made from leather and textile and feature Vibram soles.
These boots are very sturdy and durable. The air cushion heels in these boots help to absorb shock and, provide the required stability and support.
The Merell Men’s Moab Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots feature breathable mesh upper. They also have Ghillie lacing system which comes in very handy when you are in a hurry.
The bellows tongue in these shoes helps to keep the debris out. One of my personal favorite feature present in these boots is the ortholite anatomical foot bed which wicks moisture as well as keeps your feet cool and dry all the time.
The Merell Men’s Moab Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots are comfortable. They dry very quickly as well.
The M Select DRY technology and the M Select FRESH technology in these boots have made them waterproof and odor resistant respectively.
I have owned a pair of these for a little more than two years now. They still work great, though the waterproofness seems to have declined with time.
The only complaint I can make about the Merell Men’s Moab Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots is that these boots are not warm enough to be worn during the winter season.
Watch Review:
Features I like:
- Breathable
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Quick drying
- Absorb shock well
- Prevent odor
5. Timberland Men’s Flume Waterproof Boots
The Timberland Men’s Flume Waterproof Boots are just the best when it comes to stability. Not only that but these boots are also very comfortable.
The Timberland Men’s Flume Waterproof Boots are made from leather and fabric. They have a shaft of 5 inches.
The rubber sole of these boots provides great traction. The full-gusseted tongue helps to keep the debris out where as the seam-sealed construction has made these boots completely waterproof.
The Timberland Men’s Flume Waterproof Boots feature removable EVA foam foot bed for the required comfort. The D-ring lacing construction of these boots allows easy and secured fastening of the laces.
All the Timberland Boots are stylish and the Timberland Men’s Flume Waterproof Boots are no exception. These beauties are also very easy to break in.
Watch Review:
Features I like:
- Great stability and traction
- Stylish
- Comfortable
- Easy to break in
6. Salewa Men’s ALP Trainer Mid GTX Technical Approach Shoes
The Salewa Men’s ALP Trainer Mid GTX Technical Approach Shoes are one of the best hiking boots for plantar fasciitis. But before we proceed, let me tell you that these shoes are good only for light hiking and hence you may want to skip these in case of intensive hikes.
The Salewa Men’s ALP Trainer Mid GTX Technical Approach Shoes are made from leather and synthetic. They feature a Vibram sole and a shaft of 6 inches from the arch.
These boots feature a waterproof Gore-Tex Extended comfort lining.
Despite not being the first choice for intensive hikes, the Salewa Men’s ALP Trainer Mid GTX Technical Approach Shoes do favorably well even when worn for a long period of time.
These boots are comfortable, lightweight and breathable. They not only look great but also feel great on your feet.
The Salewa Men’s ALP Trainer Mid GTX Technical Approach Shoes are well-constructed and of superior quality. These shoes are very easy to break in. They will not give you any blisters even if you wear them for a prolonged period of time.
The Salewa Men’s ALP Trainer Mid GTX Technical Approach Shoes have Ortholite foot bed similar to the Merrell Men’s Moab Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots. These boots are sturdy and durable too.
The ALP Trainer has a narrow fit and hence I would recommend this pair of shoes only to the narrow feet people.
Features I like:
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Easy to break in
- Breathable
- Lightweight
- Well-constructed
7. Salomon Quest 4D GTX Hiking Boots
The Salomon Quest 4D GTX Hiking Boots are hybrids of leather and textile. These boots have a waterproof and breathable lining which will keep your feet dry and moisture-free all the time.
The Salomon Quest 4D GTX Hiking Boots have 4D chassis to increase comfort and flexibility. These boots are lightweight, comfortable and durable.
These boots have ample cushioning in them and also have molded EVA ortholite removable foot bed for shock absorption.
The Salomon Quest 4D GTX Hiking Boots have Salomon’s contagrip outsole which is equipped with non-slip and non-marking features along with multidirectional lugs. As a result, the traction and grip provided by these boots is favorable for all kinds of terrains.
Watch Review:
Features I like:
- Provides good grip and traction
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Flexible
- Breathable
8. Hi-Tec Men’s Altitude IV Waterproof Hiking Boots
The Hi-Tec Men’s Altitude IV Waterproof Hiking Boots are an excellent choice for plantar fasciitis as these boots provide great arch support. These boots are lightweight and comfortable as well.
The Hi-Tec Men’s Altitude IV Waterproof Hiking Boots feature multi-directional traction rubber outsole for the required grip and traction essential for hiking in different kinds of surfaces.
The waterproof seam-sealed construction of these boots allows you the freedom to wear them in all kinds of weathers.
The Hi-Tec Men’s Altitude IV Waterproof Hiking Boots are made from a combination of leather and synthetic materials. They have injection molded EVA midsole for comfort and shock absorption.
The Hi-Tec Men’s Altitude IV Waterproof Hiking Boots are equipped with padded leather collar and rust proof brass hardware.
The heels of these boots measure 1.5 inches and hence are ideal for plantar fasciitis.
The Hi-Tec Men’s Altitude IV Waterproof Hiking Boots are breathable. They will keep your feet dry all the time.
And hey, the price of these boots is a bargain for the high quality and features that these boots offer.
Watch Review:
Features I like:
- Great arch support
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Comfortable
- Durable
9. The NorthFace Hedgehog Fastpack GTX Hiking Shoes
The ninth pair of hiking boots in our list is the NothFace Hedgehog Fastpack GTX Hiking Shoes. These boots are not only good looking but also well-constructed.
The NothFace Hedgehog Fastpack GTX Hiking Shoes feature waterproof Gore-Tex technology. They are also equipped with Cradle Guide which helps with over pronation.
The TPU Cradle in these boots have enhanced the stability of the boots. The EVA midsole provides the required cushioning and shock absorption.
The NothFace Hedgehog Fastpack GTX Hiking Shoes offer optimum arch support. These shoes are equipped with padded tongue and collar, for the required support and comfort.
The NothFace Hedgehog Fastpack GTX Hiking Shoes have a Vibram sole. They are breathable, lightweight, durable and of high quality.
The con of the NothFace Hedgehog Fastpack GTX Hiking Shoes is that the sole of these boots is a bit hard which has made this pair of boots a little uncomfortable.
Watch Review:
Features I like:
- Breathable
- Lightweight
- Durable
- High quality
- Stable
- Helps with over pronation
- Provides great arch support
10. KEEN Men’s Targhee II Mid WP Hiking Boots
The KEEN Men’s Targhee II Mid WP Hiking Boots are made from leather. They feature rubber sole which provides great stability.
The shaft of the KEEN Men’s Targhee II Mid WP Hiking Boots is approximately 4.5″ from the arch.
These boots have padded tongue and collar for added comfort and support. These boots will also keep your feet warm and dry.
The KEEN Men’s Targhee II Mid WP Hiking Boots are breathable. They have a secured lacing system and great fit which will protect your feet.
The KEEN Men’s Targhee II Mid WP Hiking Boots have wide toe area. As a result, these boots are ideal for people with wide feet.
The disadvantage of the Targhee II Mid WP comes in the form of durability- this pair of boots, unfortunately, do not do well in terms of being sturdy and robust.
Watch Review:
Features I like:
- Breathable
- Comfortable
- Good fit
- Great stability
- Provides excellent protection
Comparison Table of Best Hiking Boots for Plantar Fasciitis
| Hiking Boots for Plantar Fasciitis | Material | Sole | Shaft Measurement from Arch (in inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Timberland White Ledge Men's Waterproof Boots | Leather and Textile | Rubber | 4.75 |
| Timberland Men's Chocorua Trail Gore-Tex Mid Hiking Boots | Leather and textile | Rubber | 5 |
| Vasque Men's Breeze 2.0 Gore-Tex Waterproof Hiking Boots | Leather | Vibram | 6 |
| Merell Men's Moab Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots | Leather and textile | Vibram | 4.5 |
| Timberland Men's Flume Waterproof Boots | Leather | Rubber | 5 |
| Salewa Men's ALP Trainer Mid GTX Technical Approach Shoes | Leather and synthetic | Vibram | 6 |
| Salomon Quest 4D GTX Hiking Boots | Leather and textile | Salomon's Contagrip Outsole | 6 |
| Hi-Tec Men's Altitude IV Waterproof Hiking Boots | Leather and synthetic | Rubber | 6 |
| The NorthFace Hedgehog Fastpack GTX Hiking Shoes | PU coated leather | Rubber | 4.5 |
| KEEN Men's Targhee II Mid WP Hiking Boots | Leather | Rubber | 4.5 |
Why are the Right Hiking Boots Important for People with Plantar Fasciitis?
The first thing you want to be clear about is that even the right hiking shoes do not cure plantar fasciitis. Nevertheless, wearing hiking boots which are good for plantar fasciitis will not hurt- no pun intended!
Plantar fasciitis can happen to anyone and at any time. Not just hiking, but normal walking, running or jogging too can cause plantar fasciitis.
Thus, you do not want to add extra risk by not wearing proper hiking boots.
The right hiking boots will ensure that your feet are getting the optimum support which they require.
These boots are comfortable and just enough flexible for plantar fasciitis.
Even though the right hiking shoes may not be able to cure plantar fasciitis, these boots sure do guarantee that the situation does not worsen further.
These boots will help to decrease the pain.
The right kind of hiking boots will also allow you to walk for a longer period of time without your feet getting tired or hurt.
It is difficult to walk normally or even stand up when you have plantar fasciitis; so just imagine how difficult hiking with this condition will be.
I, in no sense, am asking you all to go on intensive hikes if you suffer from plantar fasciitis.
But in case you want to go on some light hiking despite having this condition, I recommend you to wear only the appropriate hiking shoes.
How to Choose the Right Boots for People with Plantar Fasciitis?
You want to be extra careful while purchasing hiking boots for plantar fasciitis. You do not want the hiking boots to further exacerbate your pain. We all have different feet structures and hence finding the right shoes for us differs on an individual level. Nevertheless, you want to ensure that you pay good attention to the following factors while purchasing hiking boots for plantar fasciitis:
Heel Counter
First things first, the heel counter of the hiking shoes need to be firm. The heel counter is the back portion of the shoes. This part must stay firm when squeezed. A firm heel counter helps to control pronation (the natural side-to-side movement of our feet when we walk or run) and supination (outward rolling of the feet with an elevated arch). A firm heel counter also provides support to the feet and ankle. Hiking shoes whose heel counter squeezes or is not resistant are not good for people who suffer from plantar fasciitis.
Flexibility
Even though the heels of the shoes need to be firm, the hiking boots must be flexible. The right hiking boots will flex gradually all the while providing just enough resistant. Now remember, if there is very little to no resistance, or the shoes start to collapse around the center, those shoes are not supple enough to be worn by people with plantar fasciitis.
Heel and Shaft
Talking about the heels, the heels of the hiking boots must be minimum of 1 inch in height. This will help to reduce the heel pain. You want to stay away from flat hiking boots because they tire your feet easily and cause more pain. You do not want to go for sky high heels, but something with 1 inch to slightly higher will do the trick. Similarly, the shaft of the hiking boots need to be higher as higher shaft will provide more support and a secured fit to the user.
Cushioning
Next thing to check is the cushioning of the hiking boots. You want to check the hiking boots for ample cushioning to ensure maximum comfort and softness. Nowadays, you get removable insoles in which you can add orthotics in order to customize the shoes as per your requirement. Most of the hiking boots today come with EVA midsoles for shock absorption and comfort.
Apart from the above factors, you also want to check the material, weight, comfort level, waterproofness, warmth, etcetera of the hiking boots.
The Best Pick
My favorite hiking boots pair for plantar fasciitis from the above list is the Timberland White ledge Men’s Waterproof Hiking Boots.
Timberland does really have a great range of hiking boots fit for plantar fasciitis.
Not only is the White Ledge Men’s Waterproof Hiking Boots comfortable and great functioning, but also very stylish.
So, one does not have to compromise on wearing good looking boots no matter the pain.
The Timberland White Ledge Men’s Waterproof Boots have great traction. They are lightweight, waterproof and supportive.
These boots can be worn in all kinds of weather. Plus, their price is very reasonable.
Because of all these great features, I think the Timberland White Ledge boots are one of the best hiking boots for plantar fasciitis.