Best hiking boots for plantar fasciitis? Sometimes after climbing the rocks or bumpy surfaces, you encounter after effects such as heel pain or blisters. What if you haven’t climbed or gone hiking yet and still experience this excruciating pain in your heels? Well, outdoor activity can be a severe danger for you, especially if you are planning to go on a hiking venture.
While doing rigorous activities such as mountain biking or hiking, you must be careful about your feet conditions and the hiking boots you will carry with you. If you suffer from heel pain or are prone to getting heel pain if you hike for long hours, then finding the best hiking boots is crucial.
We have curated some of the best hiking boots for plantar fasciitis so that you don’t have to worry about exploring the options and getting the right fit. Heel pain is medically called plantar fasciitis.
Hiking is not recommended for people who suffer from plantar fasciitis but if you love to hike or want to try it, then look at these best hiking boots for plantar fasciitis so that you can enjoy walking on your favorite trails without stress.
How does plantar fasciitis happen?
When you hike or stretch your heel muscles for a longer time doing an outdoor activity, the ligaments get pulled, and you feel stabbing pain inside your heel. The pain can prolong f you don’t stop doing the outdoor activity, and you may have to get medical help.
Buy hiking boots that support your foot type to avoid getting heel pain or lessen its effect. Hiking boots must be lightweight and extra padded so that there is no pressure on your heels and you can enjoy mother nature.
Our Top Picked Hiking Boots For Plantar Fasciitis
1. Salamon X Ultra 3 GTX Hiking Boots
It is a mid-shaft hiking boot that provides the best traction at every track. Manufactured with innovation, the shoes are extra durable and 100% waterproof so that your feet don’t get wet while hiking.
Moreover, the boots are less heavier and easy to carry. Its sole is infused with GTX technology, which provides excellent shock absorbent properties so you can hike for hours without getting any heel or foot pain. We recommend these hiking boots for men and women prone to getting Plantar fasciitis or foot blisters.
2. Merrell Moab II Hiking Boots For Women
The best thing about these boots is that they have EVA footbed and ortholite arch support, making them ideal for Plantar fasciitis. Extraordinarily water-resistant and anti-debris properties will keep the tiny things away from getting into your hiking boots.
It has a Vibram sole which makes it shock absorbent so that you can walk for hours without extra stress on your feet. Moreover, they are made from leather, making them ultra durable on rough terrains.
What Are The Best Hiking Boots For Plantar Fasciitis In 2022?
1. Vasque Breeze 2.0 Hiking Boots – Embark On Hiking Journey With Pleasure
Along with a high shaft of 6 inches, these boots are most breathable and keep the debris away from the feet. They have rubber GTX soles and are 100% leather material. Available in two colours: Slate Brown and Russet Orange.
Vasque breeze 2.0 is the most breathable hiking boots for both men and women. If you are prone to getting heel pains or foot pains, then buying this model will save you a fortune.
- 100% Water Resistant Boots: The boots’ material is leather, making them very durable. Water resistant at the same time—infused with GTX technology, which has layers of membrane that won’t let water seep into the boots and hurt your feet.
- Shock Absorbant Sole: The Vasque hiking boots’ outsole comprises Vibram, an excellent shock absorbent. Whether hiking in the mountains or biking, boots keep the shocks or stress away from your feet, especially from heels and ankles. Furthermore, the XS Trek compound is used in this model to optimize the overall performance of the boots by making them durable and anti-stress.
- Strong Heel Support: For people prone to heel pain, the boots have extra padding and EVA footbed that keeps the feet comfortable during outdoor activities. The Vibram outsole with the EVA foam makes the boots resilient to extremely rough conditions. It aligns with your needs so that the feet and ankles feel less pressure.
- Very Durable And Last Longer: Many people have claimed that these boots are durable and won’t show signs of wear and tear even after two years. It is safe to say that Vasque boots can be your hiking companion for a long time if treated with proper care and precautions.
Specification Table
Dimension | 13 x 10 x 5 inches |
Weight (per pair) | 1.2 Pounds |
Shaft measurement | 6 inches |
Item model number | 7482-Slate Brown/Russet Orange-9 W US |
Heel Measurement | 1.25 inches |
Pros & Cons
2. Timberland White Ledge Mid-Hiking Boots For Women – Climb Mountains With Confidence
These boots are made from leather and are highly durable on rough, bumpy terrains. They are claimed to be the best waterproof boots by many users. The lacing system is rustproof and super handy, so you can easily handle the laces and tie the shoes within no time.
The midsole provides full traction to the ankles, and EVA soles keep the feet away from plantar fasciitis. This model is specifically for women, but they have a variety of men’s boots too.
- Optimum Performance on Trails: Boots are designed to be worn for outdoor activities. Made from the finest leather material, they are highly durable. They show superb performance when you wear them on the trails. The soles and extra padding make them perfect for plantar fasciitis.
- 100% Water Proof: Inbuilt with seamless waterproofing technology, these boots can simultaneously keep the water away from your feet and boots. They are ideal for people who get sweat on their feet while hiking because they are breathable.
- Best Lacing System: Most boots take long minutes to buckle or lace up. There is not much time when you’re in the middle of terrain and have to tie your boot up. This model is designed with features that keep the laces rustless while providing a smooth and seamless process that takes less than minutes to lace them up. The laces won’t get tangled even if they get slightly wet.
- Timberland Warranty: The unique thing about these boots is that they have an official timberland warranty. You’ll not have to worry about minor repairs or exchanges after buying the shoes.
Specification Table
Dimensions | 14.02 x 7.99 x 5 inches |
Weight (per pair) | 1 Pound |
Shaft measurement | 3.5 inches |
Item model number | TB0A2ETR015 |
Heel Measurement | 2 inches |
Pros & Cons
3. Keen Explore Hiking Boots for Men – Explore Terrains With Comfort:
This model supports people who suffer from plantar fasciitis or other foot-related problems. It offers the best arch support so that the feet remain comfortable inside the boots, and you can hike wherever you want to.
They are lightweight and ultra-durable hiking boots because of the material used in their manufacturing. Very suitable to use in every terrain and proven efficient in providing traction while on the trails.
- Certified Premium Leather: The leather material used in the boots is certified by LGW ( Leather Working Group), which ensures that it is of premium quality.
- Eco Anti-Odor Feature: Keen make their products pesticide and bacteria-free through the latest modern technology called Eco-friendly technology. So that you don’t get any fungal or bacterial infections from excessive sweat while wearing boots. Anti-odour feature keeps the smell away from the boots and wicks moisture from the socks so that the bacteria doesn’t spread.
- PFC Free Water Repellent: PFCs are chemicals used in making water repellent membranes so that the water doesn’t seep into the outer gears or any material that is layered with the chemical. Keen hiking boots have a PFC membrane that makes them super waterproof boots.
- Grip And Support: Designed with ultra precision and modern technology, these shoes are your way to go for providing optimal level performance on the terrains. The boots offer efficient grip and traction so you won’t slip or twist the ankles or feet while on the trails.
Specification Table
Dimension | 12.5 x 8.7 x 4.6 inches |
Weight (per pair) | 2.4 Pounds |
Shaft measurement | N/A |
Item model number | 1022293 |
Pros & Cons
4. Salamon X Ultra 3 GTX Hiking Boots – Conquer Heights With Pride:
The best feature of these shoes is the shaft that supports the ankles and feet by stabilizing them on the rough, bumpy trails. Optimum arch supports to make them super comfortable and won’t let you suffer from the excruciating pain of plantar fasciitis.
Insoles are removable, meaning if you want to add orthotic pads instead of these lightweight foamy cushions, you can opt for that too.
- Better Stability: Boots are designed with lugs that are 4D, which means that the shoes can provide extra stability on the grounds, even on slippery surfaces.
- Arch Support: The 4D chassis makes their arch support an excellent feature to be added to the list.
- Water Resistant: GTX membranes make the boots water resistant and extra durable on wet surfaces or rainy weather.
- Anti-Shock: Vibram Soles handle the shocks and don’t let them harm your feet or heels. You can wear them if you have plantar fasciitis or get food pains more easily.
Specification Table
Dimensions | 0.39 x 0.39 x 0.39 inches |
Weight (per pair) | 1.04 Pounds |
Shaft measurement | 3.5 inches |
Item model number | L40129600 |
Heel Measurement | 1.5 inches |
Pros & Cons
5. Merrell Moab II Hiking Boots For Women – Make Hiking Steps Count:
The material of these boots is 100% leather, making them ultra-durable with breathable meshes that let the air in and out of the shoes. The shaft measures almost 4 inches, guaranteeing better ankle and arch support on the terrains.
K fit insole makes the cushioning so comfortable that you can feel like walking on the clouds. EVA foams are included, which are shock absorbent and provide stability.
- K-Fit InSoles: There are Kinetic Fit Insoles in the boots for heel support, which are super comfortable and have extra padding for people with plantar fasciitis.
- Shock Absorbant: The outsole is made shockproof so that the little bumps or rocks on the terrain won’t trigger your heel or foot pain while at the same time providing stability.
- Premium Leather: Boots are made from Pigskin leather which is durable and doesn’t wear off in a short time
- Traditional Lace System: This model comes with a traditional hook lace system, making them classy and easy to use on the terrain.
Specification Table
Dimensions | 16 x 7 x 5 inches |
Weight (per pair) | 1.1 Pounds |
Shaft measurement | 4.25 inches |
Item model number | J06054 |
Pros & Cons
Comparison Table
Sr. # | Brand | Image | Dimensions | Weight | Shaft Height | Water Impermeability | Leather |
1 | Timberland White Ledge Mid-Hiking Boots | 14.02 x 7.99 x 5 inches | 1 pound | 3.5 inches | Yes | N/A | |
2 | Keen Explore Hiking Boots | 12.5 x 8.7 x 4.6 inches | 2.4 pound | N/A | Yes | 100% | |
3 | Vasque Breeze 2.0 Gore-Tex Hiking Boots | 13 x 10 x 5 inches | 1.2 pound | 6 inches | Yes | 100% | |
4 | Merrell Moab II Hiking Boots | 16 x 7 x 5 inches | 1.1 pound | 4.25 inches | Yes | 100% | |
5 | Salamon X Ultra 3 GTX Hiking Boots | 0.39 x 0.39 x 0.39 inches | 1.04 pound | 3.5 inches | Yes | 100% |
Things To Keep In Mind While Buying Hiking Boots For Plantar Fasciitis
- Arch Stability: If you are prone to plantar fasciitis, then you must look out for the boots that provide arch support with fully embedded EVA foams for extra comfort. If the arch support is not enough, your feet will feel the stress, and eventually, the heel pain will trigger.
- Extra Paddings: While suffering from painful heels or feet, the extra padded cushions provide comfort and relax the pain points. Therefore, before buying boots, make sure that the insoles are cushioned and boots mention to be suitable for people with plantar fasciitis. You can also use orthotic pads by adding them on top of the insoles or removing the insoles and replacing orthotics with them.
- Lacing System: When buying hiking boots for plantar fasciitis, make sure to check out the laces. Your laces must be strong enough to hold the feet and ankles in place and at the same time must be easy to handle. There are many shoes that offer a traditional lacing hook system and also other ways but we recommend you buy the one which best suits you.
- Heel Size and Shock Absorbance: Heel size matters when it comes to buying boots for people with plantar fasciitis. You must buy boots that have heel sizes above 1 inch so that your heel remains stable throughout the terrain. Also, a larger heel size makes the boot shock absorbent, which means less stress on the heels and ankles.
FAQ’s
1. Should I hike if I have plantar fasciitis?
Hiking is not considered a great activity if you have plantar fasciitis because you are at risk of getting stabbing pain in the heels anytime during the venture. However, buying some quality hiking boots may give you a chance to go on hiking.
2. What is an important thing to look up for in hiking boots for plantar fasciitis?
There are several things to check while buying boots, the most important would be checking the comfort level and grip of the boots.
3. How to treat plantar fasciitis on terrain?
You can sit down and relax for a few minutes. Try stretching exercises for the feet and remove the hiking boots. Moreover, grab quick relief ointments with you on the terrain to that you can apply them whenever needed.
4. Why does plantar fasciitis occur?
Some of the believed reasons are obesity, flat feet, and wearing stiff footwear. However, the exact reason behind heel pain is still to be discovered.
5. What if I have hiking boots but they are stiff?
If you are not on a budget, we would suggest that you change them and buy the ones we have mentioned in our guide. However, if you want to keep them, then try adding orthotic paddings to the boots so that they become less stiff.
Conclusion
Hiking boots must be comfortable and provide stability while hiking. There are different types of hiking boots that cater to their respective audiences. If you suffer from heel pain or say plantar fasciitis then you must narrow down your hiking boots search and find the ones that have been recommended by us in our guide.
The best hiking boots are those which you can wear easily for hours without getting any sort of pain or fatigue. The doctor’s advice is a must and you must follow it before choosing the best hiking boots for plantar fasciitis. Make sure that the hiking boots are cushioned, have sufficient arch support, a strong heel, and shock absorbent outsoles.
After hiking, relax your feet and try putting them in lukewarm water. It will help in relaxing the feet and avoid any heel pain. Moreover, try stretching the calf muscles and feet so that they can be all relaxed after long day hikes.