10 Best Running Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis 2025 in the United States

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe is designed for runners who need a smooth and comfortable experience. It offers excellent cushioning with its nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3, providing a soft and lightweight feel ideal for various activities including road running and walking. The shoe's Segmented Crash Pad ensures smooth transitions from landing to toe-off, which can be beneficial for those with plantar fasciitis by reducing foot strain. Additionally, the breathable air mesh upper keeps your feet cool and comfortable during long runs or walks.

The durable, lightweight RoadTack rubber outsole is designed to withstand regular use, making the shoe a long-lasting investment. The 3D Fit Print technology enhances the fit, making it secure and seamless, which can be crucial for avoiding irritation. While the shoe provides good support, it is categorized as a neutral running shoe, which means it might not offer the specific arch support some plantar fasciitis sufferers need. The shoe’s medium width may also not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with wider feet.

This shoe offers great cushioning and durability, but individuals with severe plantar fasciitis should consider their specific support needs before purchasing.

The Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe offers several standout features that could benefit runners with plantar fasciitis. The shoe provides soft, nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning, which helps in delivering lightweight comfort and soft support, crucial for those dealing with heel pain. The Segmented Crash Pad ensures smooth transitions from landing to toe-off, promoting a distraction-free run that can be particularly beneficial for those with plantar fasciitis, as it helps in reducing impact on the feet.

The shoe also features a 3D Fit Print for a more seamless and secure fit, contributing to better arch and heel support. The engineered air mesh upper enhances breathability, ensuring your feet stay cool and comfortable during runs. Additionally, the Roadtack rubber outsole is designed to be durable and lightweight, which is important for maintaining flexibility and longevity of the shoe.

The shoe’s durability is highlighted by the use of recycled silica in the outsole, making it a sustainable choice as well. The Brooks Ghost 16 is a well-rounded running shoe offering comfort, breathability, and smooth transitions, but may fall short in providing targeted arch support for severe plantar fasciitis cases.

The Brooks Women's Glycerin 21 Neutral Running Shoe is an excellent choice for runners with plantar fasciitis, especially those who prioritize cushioning and comfort. One of its major strengths is the super-soft nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning that offers plush comfort and responsiveness, which is essential for alleviating the discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis. The shoe also boasts a plush internal fit with a stretch bootie that adapts to your foot, ensuring a snug yet flexible fit.

Additionally, the broad platform promotes smooth, stable transitions, offering good heel support and overall stability during runs. However, the shoe's neutral support might not be ideal for those needing significant arch support, as it is designed for neutral runners. While the breathable mesh upper provides flexibility and comfort, it might not offer the structured support that some users with plantar fasciitis require.

Furthermore, the shoe is relatively lightweight, which enhances its comfort and reduces strain on the feet. The durability of the rubber sole is a plus, indicating that the shoe can withstand regular use. The Brooks Women's Glycerin 21 is a strong candidate for those seeking comfort and cushioning in their running shoes, though those needing more specialized arch support might need to consider additional orthotic inserts for optimal relief from plantar fasciitis.