Podiatrists Say These Stylish AF Shoes Are Like Walking On Clouds (2024)

For tennis or running shoes, Shah highly recommends well-cushioned soles that maximize arch support. These New Balance sneakers feature the brand's signature Fresh Foam midsole cushioning—they deliver an ultra-plush, lightweight ride, and even come equipped with a design that targets support to the heel, hugging the back of the foot to keep it from moving as you work out.

Shah is a big fan of insoles, and this super stylish pair of loafers comes with the orthotic insole built right in to it. The three-zone support targets the heel, arch, and ball of the foot. Plus, the heel cup really cradles the foot. These loafers make a great work shoe, because you'll look super polished while feeling like you're in your fave house slippers.

While heels, according to Shah, should be avoided because they shorten the Achilles tendon on the back of the ankle, these flat-soled shoes still have some lift to them if you like a bit of height. They're those ultra versatile slip-on sneakers you'll put on to go with every outfit in your closet.

McEneaney loves shoes with a stiff midsole, and these Women's Health editor-loved shoes feature a full-compression midsole that provides lots of support on long walks. It's designed to balance your weight throughout the entire foot, and boasts superior cushioning for shock absorption.

Suffering from plantar fasciitis doesn't mean you have to forego your favorite activities, like hiking. If heel pain makes hitting the trails feel like mission impossible, think again. These hiking shoes are functional, yet designed with comfort in mind due to the breathable mesh footbed and memory foam underlay for all-over support and comfort.

These don't have a heel, but they have a flat, high-top sole that provides some height without putting pressure on any of your precious, sensitive joints. Complete with a stretchy back that allows for just enough movement and a memory foam finish, don't be surprised if you leave these on for hours after you come home.

Recommended by McEneaney, the Jillian is constructed with Aetrex's signature arch support that's strategically placed to align and balance the weight of your body. They're a great dressy summer sandal for everything from weddings to beach days.

For more casual occasions, McEneaney recommends these classic Birkenstocks for their pronounced arch support, which removes pressure from the rest of the foot. The bed is designed to conform to the unique contours of your foot, so it'll get comfier every time you wear them. Plus, the cork sole is super breathable and good for hot, humid temps.

As much as you may be craving a sherpa-lined, fuzzy house slipper, those may not actually be doing much in terms of support. Pair these expert-designed OOFOS slides with your fave fuzzy socks, and you're set. Designed to reduce stress on sore feet, knees, and your lower back, they feature a deep heel-cup for stability, arch support, and ball-of-foot cushioning. Bonus: They're even machine washable! Find more options directly at the OOFOS site, too.

Boots can be a hard find for those of you with plantar fasciitis, especially since most can be heavy, transferring your weight to your heel. This incredibly lightweight option, however, can even accommodate most standard orthotics—it's also gained approval from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). The cherry on top? They're super stylish and perfect for fall or winter.

If you absolutely can't escape wearing heels, consider these pumps your go-to dressy heel for weddings, parties, or work. They're perfect for those with plantar fasciitis because the comfy block heel allows for the weight of the foot to be distributed more evenly, thereby reducing heel pain. I love them in this black color, but they come in a gorgeous nude and brown, too.