Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition that affects the heel and the bottom of the foot. It occurs when the plantar fascia tissue becomes irritated or inflamed. This tissue connects your heel bone to your toes and also supports your arch. When it gets damaged, walking even a short distance can hurt.
Having good shoes is really helpful in this condition. Shoes that are good for plantar fasciitis provide correct arch support, cushioning in the heel, and stability. They reduce pain, improve posture and make walking or standing easier. Here are five much-recommended shoes available in New Zealand that are best for people suffering from plantar fasciitis.
Top 5 Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis Available in New Zealand
#1:- Brooks Adrenaline GTS Series
For those dealing with plantar fasciitis, you can’t go wrong with the Brooks Adrenaline GTS series. It’s constructed with a proprietary GuideRails® support system that stabilizes your feet while you walk or run. This helps minimize unnecessary motion that could create a strain on your arches or heels. The DNA LOFT cushioning is plush beneath the foot, yet provides sufficient support for stability.
The key to this shoe’s ideality for plantar fasciitis is the balance of softness and structure. It absorbs shock well, so it helps lessen the impact on your heel. This will matter if the back of your heel feels sore or tender. The midsole conforms to and adjusts for your stride, providing support where you need it most.
The lightweight mesh upper breathes, too, so your feet stay cool on long walks. Whether you’re strolling around the park, standing in your office all day or going for a light jog, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS is a shoe built for all-day comfort. It’s a workhorse shoe that strikes the balance between comfort and support, and durability, which is all your feet need to contend with plantar fasciitis.
#2:- Asics Gel-Kayano
The Asics Gel-Kayano is one of the best shoes for plantar fasciitis, providing much-needed strong support and great cushioning. With GEL® technology, this shoe not only cushions in the back with GEL in both the heel and front of the shoe to diminish impact and absorption as the body moves. This relieves stress on your heel and arch with each step.
The shoe’s patented DuoMax® Support System adds stability and arch support to the shoe, great for people who overpronate (roll their feet inward too much). This feature cures your foot movement and alleviates the pain of the plantar fascia. The midsole’s FlyteFoam® material is plush and bouncy — you feel light on your feet while also being supported.
The Gel-Kayano also features an engineered mesh upper for comfort. This breathable material allows airflow, meaning your feet stay dry and cool throughout use, even during hours of playtime. The heel counter at the rear locks your heel in place for added stability and prevents unwanted movement.
Whether you are walking, working out or just on your feet a lot, the Asics Gel-Kayano delivers long-term comfort and pain relief. It’s a good choice if you want a shoe that hugs your feet but wouldn’t be considered too heavy or stiff.
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#3:- Hoka Arahi
Hoka Arahi: A supremely cushioned, lightweight and supportive shoe. It’s a stability shoe from Hoka’s line, and it’s specifically made for those of us who need support without the extra weight. This makes it ideal for those with plantar fasciitis who need comfort and performance.
It includes Hoka’s signature J-Frame™ technology. This helps guide your foot and prevents it from rolling too far inwards, which can add tension to your plantar fascia. The soft EVA foam is the perfect all-day support, and the thick sole provides a “walking on clouds” feeling without sacrificing arch and heel support.
The Hoka Arahi has big cushioning, and in the right spots, is surprisingly stable (and firm). It aligns your feet in the right position, which helps decrease pain and promote better posture. The spacious toe box allows your toes to spread out, which is a nice plus if you have foot pain or swelling.
The uppers are breathable mesh that wraps your foot comfortably and snugly. There cannot be any rubbing or pinching, or overheating. Whether you’re walking to the office, going for a light jog, or just standing all day, the Hoka Arahi offers cushioning and support every step of the way. If you have plantar fasciitis, it’s a great option for everyday wear.
#4:- Skechers Arch Fit
The Skechers Arch Fit is one of the best shoe options for those who require added arch support, and it is particularly beneficial for those suffering from plantar fasciitis. With over 20 years of foot data and podiatrist-designed, the insole is made. It contours to your foot and has great support for the arch.
This shoe distributes your body weight evenly across your foot, decreasing pressure on your heel and alleviating pain. The midsole provides responsive cushioning that feels soft but offers sufficient bounce while walking. It also protects your feet from hard impacts when walking on pavement or standing for long periods.
One of the most fun aspects of the Skechers Arch Fit is just how light and flexible it feels. You can wear them the whole day long without tiring. Its knit mesh upper is also there to keep your feet cool and aid comfort. The rubber outsole also provides good traction, so you can confidently wear them on various surfaces.
They’re also stylish, so they can be used casually, for shopping, light working out or daily wear. If you’re looking for a shoe that feels good the second you slip it on that should help alleviate heel pain as you wear it, Skechers Arch Fit is a solid choice.
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#5:- New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v15
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v15 is a plush and supportive shoe that would work well for those with plantar fasciitis. It includes Fresh Foam X technology in the midsole for a soft but stable ride. Each step is smooth, cushioned to relieve heel pain and pressure off the arch.
The shoe features a rigid heel counter that keeps your foot stable and helps minimize strain on the plantar fascia as you run. You know, those are really useful for anyone who’s on their feet, standing, walking all day long, like many people. Its double-layer midsole provides both squish and structure, offering comfort with each step while still maintaining your foot’s position.
The upper is constructed of breathable mesh that fits your foot comfortably while enabling airflow. Good if your feet are wider or swollen — toe box is roomy and does not create pressure or cramping.
If you’re walking a long distance, working on your feet all day long, or just looking for a sneaker that you can wear on a daily basis, the New Balance 880v15 is going to be a great option to consider. It provides the perfect balance of cushioning and support that makes it one of the best shoes in NZ for plantar fasciitis relief and long-term comfort.
Conclusion
Plantar fasciitis can cause pain in the foot, but you can ease the pain with the right shoes. These are five of the best shoes you can get in New Zealand! They provide the support, comfort, and cushioning that your feet require to heal and feel better. Whether you’re walking, working or exercising, investing in a good pair of shoes is one of the most effective steps you can take to help prevent pain and stay active.
Last modified: March 28, 2025
