An In depth Review of the Best Sandals for Plantar Fasciitis in 2021

For someone with a plantar fasciitis condition, finding the most comforting shoes is somewhat hard. And when spring and summer arrive, everyone springs to their sandals, leaving you miserable in the warm and hot weather.

During the sandals season, closed shoes are forbidden as they heat up fast. Unfortunately, ordinary sandals aren’t designed to be supportive. In comparison with closed shoes like running shoes, sandals are less supportive. This means that your ligament damage becomes aggravated. The result is injuries such as sharp arch pains which are very difficult to fully recover from.

Therefore, if you have been searching for the best sandals deals, then you are in luck for landing here. I have prepared an in-depth buying guide as well as rational review of 10 of the best sandals in 2019.

Best Sandals for Plantar Fasciitis – Buying Guide

When looking to buy the best sandals for plantar fasciitis, there are a couple of things you have to keep at the back of your mind. Before you buy the sandals, here are the issues to consider.

1. What’s Your Style?

Sandals meant to ease plantar fasciitis conditions generally come in two options. These are either a “flip flop” or a “full shoot” sandal. Ask yourself which of the two best suits you. The difference is in the design and the applications.

First, a flip flop sandal is a slide in footwear that you can conveniently slide your feet into. These are mostly used for comfort indoors or as a lounging wear. Wearing these outdoors is quite a nightmare for a group of people.

On the other hand, full shoot sandals wrap over your feet for a secure fit. If you intend to move around a lot in your sandals, these are the best choices. Moreover, they are better equipped at handling different terrains or long distance walking.

2. Consider the Arch Support

Ideally, a pair of sandals meant to ease plantar fasciitis condition requires adequate amount of arch support. It’s the only way of supporting yourself throughout a busy day.

Simply put, arch support is what keeps the foot from flattening out when wearing the sandals. As your feet flatten, the ligament stress increases hence worsening the condition. Look at the reviews on how supportive the sandal is to get an idea of what to expect.

3. Are the Foot Beds Contoured?

Contours along the foot bed of a pair of sandals may seem like no big deal, but trust me, they are a big deal. Part of the reason for this is because the contours evenly distribute the weight exerted by your body throughout the sandals for better shock attenuation.

Separately, the heel cup area should be deep enough to stabilize your every step.

4. The Foot Bed should be removable

Although it is not a must, having a pair of sandals with a removable foot bed is a big plus. If you buy sandals but find out that your arch requires extra support, a removable foot bed comes in handy. You can swap it for a better supportive one or even a medical orthotic.

5. Shock Absorption and Traction

The best sandals for plantar fasciitis are capable of minimizing shock impacts permeating from the ground upwards. Therefore, a high quality pair of sandals should be accompanied by quality outsoles.

Rubber is the best natural shock absorbent, although some manufacturers opt for synthetics. Whichever material used, traction generation has to be excellent.

Top 10 Reviews of the Best Sandals for Plantar Fasciitis

Best Sandals for Plantar Fasciitis – For Men

1. Birkenstock Arizona Leather Sandals for Men – Best for General Comfortability

If you were to do a quick survey today, you will likely find out that Birkenstock Arizona sandals are some of the most popular open toe sandals available. Part of this reason is the excellent comfort factor coupled by an ample arch support. As a result, they are part of my top choices for the best sandals for plantar fasciitis.

These sandals are made from leather. The material gives them a smooth and classic silhouette appearance that’s a big hit among men with plantar fasciitis. A contoured foot bed has deep heel cupping that evenly distributes your body weight throughout the heels. Resultantly, as much pressure as possible is taken off the plantar fascia for a comfortable walk.

Another excellent feature is the material from which the foot bed is made from. Combining latex and cork in the structure creates a befitting cushioning that not only cradles the foot but also massages them during every step. Better yet, by raising the toe bar, all your foot muscles are engaged during the foot gait cycle.

When it comes to support, a rubber outsole generates sufficient amount of traction on most of the surfaces that you could be walking or running on. The rubber is also durable hence lasting you a long while regardless of how often you wear the sandals. Were it not for how the foot bed tears after a short period in some of the sandals, then they could be great options to ease your pains.

2. Vionic Unisex Wave Toe-Post Sandal – Flip-Flop – Perfect for Complete Arch Support

The Vionic Unisex wave sandals are an unfussy sandal design meant to offer undeniable comfort. If you are the type of person to go for subtle fashion like me, then these would be a great steal for your troubles.

Apart from being shock absorbent, their comfort is also long lasting. Since it is essential that a person with plantar fasciitis should never feel step shocks, exemplary arch support in these shoes is a welcome relief for many.

Featuring a special webbing from a durable nylon, the foot bed offers a comfortable resting place for your arches. In addition, these sandals-cum-flip flops come with an orthotic support. This unique feature is usually concealed to create a hugging feel to the arches.

Another good feature is the minimalistic design. The sandals are both effective and lightweight to reduce stress induced into the arches. Cleaning these is a breeze too. All that’s needed is a simple wipe with a dump cloth and that’s just it.

Another feature you might love is the podiatrist designed EVA foot bed. It’s a great feature that makes the shoes active and biomechanically supportive. In all its glory, I find the strap a little discomforting when it goes too high on the foot.

3. OluKai Men’s Ohana Sandals – Ideal for Offering the Best Grip in all Terrains

At times, you are simply looking for a low-key beach look while at the same time eliminating sharp pain from your arches. This is where the OluKai Men’s Ohana sandals become a great choice. They may look like ordinary sandals, but they aren’t upon close examination.

One of the features that make them great sandals for relieving plantar fasciitis pain is the foot bed. They are compression molded to develop an anatomical support for your arches. Both the support and foot bed are inbuilt into the sandal design for better effect.

Thus, you are able to walk or stand for an extended period of time without experiencing much pain. To stabilize wearer heels, the foot bed is constructed from an EVA and has a Drop in design. As a result, your heels are positioned in a dropped back position for increased stability.

Besides the anatomical compression molded foot bed created for a personalized fit, the sandals feature a vegan-friendly design. Zero animal products are used throughout the process of manufacturing these sandals. Instead, synthetic materials are used. Synthetic leather and neoprene are used in place.

Quick drying properties means the sandals are water ready anytime, especially for beach life. As open-ended shoes, excellent breathability is maintained in and out of water. A common complaint I come across numerous times is the falling apart of the foot bed but in one-off instances.

4. ECCO Men’s Yucatan Sandal – Ideal for Premium Cushioning and Stability

Are you a trail walking person yet your plantar fascia can’t let you be out in peace? The ECCO men’s Yucatan Sandal is an ideal option to make you relish your cherished moments again. Available in a multitude of sizes and color options, they fit great too.

Separately, you can wear these like any other sandals for everyday comfort. They are not only meant for trail walking. A durable leather construction makes for a long-lasting comfort that’s also lightweight. They are just weighted right for hikers and walkers alike.

While they soak in water since they are waterproof, their quick drying nature makes up for this to an extent. For someone with plantar fasciitis, you should be more concerned with the midsole and shock absorption characteristics than anything else.

Thanks to a receptor technology that absorbs most of the shocks generated by your footsteps, your joints feel less stress than before. A rubber outsole adds another layer for shock absorption while retaining excellent traction more so along trails or varied terrain.

Sandal upper combines old Silla and Yak nubuck leather for simple and beautifully sewn design. Plus, a microfiber cover on the EVA foot bed and direct injected Poly Urethane foam midsole provide premium cushioning.

5. OOFOS Unisex Ooriginal Thong Flip-Flop Sandals -Perfect in Allowing Natural Motion

The OOFOS unisex sandals are some of the best sandals for plantar fasciitis. Although they were originally used by recovery patients, people with damaged plantar fascia are fast adopting them thanks to their blend of unique technology and features purposed to keep you cozy.

I have often been intrigued by the increased number of podiatrists prescribing these sandals to plantar fasciitis patients. Made from purely synthetic materials, the insole foam absorbs close to 37 percent more of the generated impacts than traditional foam.

As such, the chances of Overpronation become minimal and so does your plantar fasciitis pain. From first look, you will notice the unique curves and contours along the foot bed. These are in place to support your arches in the best way possible.

By being supportive, instances of sore back, knees and feet reduce by a significant margin. Additionally, these are slip-ons, so putting them on is a breeze. Another great feature is that the sandals are machine washable. You don’t have to worry about cleaning them if they get mucky.

Biomechanical design provides for the ability to line your foot naturally. Sideways motion of the foot is what worsens the plantar fasciitis condition. However, the synthetic materials used create a sort of cheap feeling that dampens the moods when wearing these pairs of sandals.

Best Sandals for Plantar Fasciitis – For Women

6. KEEN Women’s Whisper Sandal -Perfect to be used in watery Environments

For women with plantar fasciitis, the KEEN women’s whisper sandal is one of the best sandals you may opt for. These sandals do not only securely fit onto your feet, they are also lightweight to minimize on drag. The latter is one feature you could do without.

A bungee lace closure system secures the sandals in place without moving about. Separately the sandals possess a natural ability to control odor particularly after you spend time in moist conditions. The sandals are washable as well to keep them fresh and comfy.

Sandal laces are elastic in nature, which essentially gives the sandals their secure fit. A feature made specifically for those with plantar fasciitis is the metatomical foot bed. It is such that the supportive mechanism for the arches is inbuilt.

Plus, the foot bed engineering provides an excellent arch support mechanism. Furthermore, contours within the midsole cradles up the mid foot. Thus, the wearers get even weight distribution that’s key to reducing plantar fascia stress.

Hydrophobic meshed lining throughout the shoe upper is a feature that I think you would like. It makes for an easy washing process. Only a small amount of detergent is required then you can let the sandals air dry.

7. OOFOS Women’s Ooriginal Thong -Perfect in Speeding Recovery Processes

Although the OOFOS women’s Ooriginal thong sandals share a lot in common with the men’s version, it still has a set of outstanding features. Powered by an OOfoam technology, these sandals are an ideal option for those looking for a way of speeding their recovery from plantar fasciitis.

Tuned to reduce feet stress, this pair of sandals features a unique type of foam with accelerated shock absorption ability. This revolutionary OOfoam technology utilizes a single foam layer that does the job of several layers within the midsole.

As layers are eliminated, the sandals become lighter but still remain efficient at cushioning your sensitive plantar fascia from ground impacts. An aesthetically pleasing Thong Flip flop design is both stylish and comfortable, with glossy uppers and bold colors.

Sandal shape streamlines from the front, making for easy walking through virtually any terrain. Moreover, the moisture and bacteria resistance characteristics allow you to explore the beach without worrying about the sandals developing foul smell afterwards.

Regardless of the fact that these sandals are very comfortable, expect them not to last you very long. So, you would use them sparingly or invest in a new pair after every couple of months.

8. Vionic Women’s Tide II Toe Post Sandal -Best in Absorbing Shock

When it comes to comfortable footwear, Vionic is up there with the leaders. It’s, therefore, no surprise that their Vionic Women’s Tide ii toe post sandals are among some of the best sandals for plantar fasciitis.

Just like the other Vionics, this product features the effective Orthaheel technology. This system of motion attenuation works by promoting foot alignment from the ground upwards. Likewise, a similarly brilliant midsole construction eases foot pain.

The midsoles have a deep heel cup for a stable resting point once you have the sandals on. Similarly, the heel cup realigns the resting foot in its natural position hence avoiding instances of inward or outward rolling.

As for the midsole material, it is made from Ethyl Vinyl Acetate (EVA). This material has been touted as one of the best in shock attenuation and flexibility. Still, it’s lightweight thus eliminating unnecessary stresses to the feet, knees, and ankles.

Finally, the durable thermoplastic rubber improves traction for a sure, secure step. When ordering for your pair of these sandals, size down by half to your nearest shoe size. This is the sure way of guaranteeing good fit.

9. Vionic Women’s Relax Slipper -Perfect for Hugging the Natural Curves of the Feet

Sometimes all you need is a pair of comfy slippers/sandals to relax your tired feet after a hectic day. That’s where the Vionic Women’s Relax Slipper comes in. This pair of sandals serves the sole purpose of wrapping your sore feet in fluffy, plush surrounding.

It is not only the foot bed that’s padded but also the loop strap and its hooking system. Besides massaging the foot, the strap holds down feet in a secure, natural, and fitting position. A motion support system referred to as VIO MOTION support is concealed under the fluffs.

The system acts in such a way that impact generated between foot and ground are spread out before reaching the wearers foot. All these features warrant a comfortable walk around the house. As ideal option for people with plantar fasciitis or bone spurs, the sandals act as a means of stretching out immediately you get out of bed.

With an EVA foot bed and thermoplastic rubber outsole to its name, these slippers aren’t just for relaxing in luxury. They are durable, non-marking, and wearable even on tiled/laminated floors. The manufacturer needs to clarify on the sizing though. It’s a bit confusing to opt for one.

10. Birkenstock Arizona Sandals -Best for Being Used in High Heat Areas

Everyone appreciates good quality leather sandals from time to time. These Birkenstock Arizona Sandals have a metallic leather appearance for the finish which is a testament of their exceptional quality.

In addition, a soft foot bed crafted from a good shock absorbing cork cushions every step you make. The cork foot bed has contours on it for foot shape conformance. Thus, your foot stays in place even when the sandals get wet.

A thin layer of foam lines the foot bed, adding to shock absorbing functionalities of the sandals. Overall, I think the arch support is great and when you add the roomy toe box as well as a deep heel cup, then you have a somehow decently prized footwear.

Lined with a suede finish, these sandals combine aesthetics with functionality. In case you decide to buy one of these, remember to keep them away from extreme heat. The leather and cork setup is not tolerant to high heat.

Conclusion

Not many people are conversant with the plantar fasciitis condition. It is only until they start feeling some kind of heel pain or they get diagnosed with the condition that they become aware.

If you find yourself feeling sharp pain from the heels after walking for a while, then you could be having plantar fasciitis. While there are several shoe options available for the conditions, you may have not been aware of the existence of sandals for the same.

So, I hope this post has given you an in depth insight as to what to consider when buying a pair of sandals for plantar fasciitis. I am also confident that you have found a befitting pair from the 10 products I have listed.

For the best sandals for plantar fasciitis, I think the Birkenstock Arizona Leather Sandals for Men is the top choice for men, while the KEEN Women’s Whisper Sandal is my top pick for women. These two have deep heel cups, excellent arch support, contoured foot beds, rubberized soles for traction, and a great reputation for comfort.