When you master the whole “working out, eating healthy, being happy” thing, chances are that the best CrossFit shoes for plantar fasciitis aren’t on your mind the moment you wake up.
We would go as far as to argue that you’re probably thinking of your WODs, your macros, and the odd, stabbing pain on the bottom of your foot that’s been bothering you for quite some time.
On the other hand, there’s a chance you already know you’re dealing with plantar fasciitis considering the Google search that brought you here. CrossFit and plantar fasciitis aren’t a great match, but they can’t seem to get enough of each other.
Other than plantar fasciitis, CrossFit’s also related to health niggles such as Achilles tendonitis, peroneal tendonitis, metatarsal stress fractures, and acute fractures that aren’t cute at all.
Because CrossFit’s often described as a high-intensity strength and conditioning workout, you shouldn’t be surprised that the most popular workout regime across the world causes foot trauma left and right.
Truth be told, plantar fasciitis appears to be one of the most common problems CrossFitters face. On the off chance that you’ve been living under a rock, though, plantar fasciitis can be described as a problem that occurs when the tissue across the bottom of your foot becomes inflamed.
To everyone’s demise, you can’t necessarily fix plantar fasciitis. But, you can treat yourself to the best CrossFit shoes for plantar fasciitis that are guaranteed to keep you supported, protected, and comfortable.
What to look for when choosing the best CrossFit shoes for plantar fasciitis? What are the best CrossFit shoes for plantar fasciitis on the market? We’ve done the digging and we’re ready to answer these questions (and more) further down in this article. Read on!
What to look for when choosing the best CrossFit shoes for plantar fasciitis?
Even when you’re searching for CrossFit shoes without the features designed to relieve your plantar fasciitis, there isn’t one perfect shoe that can provide you with everything you need.
CrossFitters, for example, need three types of shoes (to say the least) – one pair of shoes for lifting, one pair for jumping, and one pair for cardiovascular fitness and running.
Add the plantar fasciitis problem, and you need another pair to support and protect your feet, as well as offer you enough relief for you to be able to continue working out. But, that’s not attainable whatsoever.
That is why you need to opt for shoes that offer enough features that can support all these activities and the problems that occur with plantar fasciitis.
For starters, opt for shoes with added arch support. So, people with plantar fasciitis often have arches that are lower than they’re supposed to be. Now, that adds excess stress on the foot and the right shoes should be able to offer enough support to relieve some of that pressure.
On the other hand, go for shoes that have enough padding and cushioning. Maximalist shoes, as they’re called, alleviate the pressure from the plantar fascia. Moreover, shoes with a forefoot “rocker” design distribute the weight more evenly across the foot.
But, you shouldn’t brush over the fact that your shoes also need to offer you enough stability and flexibility. Meaning that they should bend with your toes, but they shouldn’t bend when your toes aren’t bending.
Therefore, when you’re shopping for the best CrossFit shoes for plantar fasciitis, you shouldn’t shop online – you’re better off trying them on and checking how they perform on your foot right there and then.
What are the best CrossFit shoes for plantar fasciitis on the market?
“There are numerous shoes marketed as the best CrossFit shoes for fasciitis, or simply as the best CrossFit shoes. What’s wrong with those?” That’s probably something you’re thinking right now.
To answer your question, there’s nothing wrong with them. But, shoes that are marketed as CrossFit shoes don’t have to possess the features you need them to possess.
To make matters worse, once you Google search a buzzword or a buzzphrase, there’s nothing stopping the algorithm from placing you different ads targeted at people like you.
Whether those ads offer you something of substance or not, you’re the one that needs to search for the features we mentioned beforehand and opt for shoes that offer all or most of them.
With that out of the way, we gathered some of the best CrossFit shoes for plantar fasciitis on the market (at the moment). We’re keeping our fingers crossed that you find your forever shoes among these secure, supportive, and stylish suggestions.
1. Brooks Ghost Running Shoes
Right off the bat, the Brooks Ghost Running Shoes might make you think you’re possessed by a sporty CrossFitter named Chad because you’re going to break all your records while wearing them.
We’re comfortable stating that these are one of the best CrossFit shoes for plantar fasciitis for a million reasons (and we’re happy to discuss them with you).
First off, Brooks Ghost Running Shoes are certified as PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoes and have been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance. They’re supportive, comfortable, and durable.
They’re made with rubber outsoles that are supportive enough to keep your feet grounded and flexible enough to move with your feet while you’re road running, cross-training, or hitting the gym.
They are also padded to the Gods to ensure shock absorption and alleviate the pressure off your feet. But, they’re lightweight and secured with the 3D Fit Print upper technology to ensure they move with the foot (rather than drag you down).
2. New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v11
Who doesn’t adore every sneaker New Balance has ever come out with?! Whether you’re a CrossFitter, a gym goer, or someone who wears New Balance sneakers because they’re fashion-forward and freakin’ trending wherever you look, you’re bound to love the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v11 sneakers.
“If we only made one running shoe, that shoe would be the1080.” That’s what the people behind New Balance stated about the newest release.
The New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v11 sneakers feature a Fresh Foam midsole that takes the pressure off your heels when you’re running or working out.
They’re equipped with a high-heel tab that adds more support to your heels and curves away from your ankles. They’re more cushioned than ever, but the Ortholite sock liner ensures the cushioning doesn’t compress your feet more than necessary.
3. Reebok Nano X1 Training Shoes
We should start by saying that the Reebok Nano X1 Training Shoes are worth the price considering the number of features you’re getting with them.
Actually, these Reeboks are one of the best CrossFit shoes for plantar fasciitis because they provide a strong foundation, a good range of motion, and secure footing.
Therefore, they’re supportive, flexible, and breathable. They’re pretty lightweight considering they’re made with their patented Flexweave technology. They feature minimal drop, but they’re padded enough to alleviate the pressure off your feet.
They offer the widest, roomiest toe box (ever), and they’re equipped with an excellent level of traction. To be completely honest, they’re one of the best CrossFit sneakers on the market and you can get them for a fraction of the price of some of the other brands.
4. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 23
These might be our favorite sneakers for plantar fasciitis. When you’re dealing with that strange, stabbing pain on the bottom of your foot, you’re craving padding, cushioning, and other means of alleviating pressure.
Turns out that the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 23 sneakers have exactly what you need. They’re equipped with specific gel cushioning (hence the name) under the heel to absorb shock.
They’re also enriched with added foam around the midsole area and a gender-specific stabilizing piece under the arch to provide comfort, stability, and support.
They are perfect for runners, but also appropriate for pretty much any activity you can think of. And, they’re not heavy even though they’re heavily padded – they have the ASICS’ proprietary FLYTEFOAM which happens to be the lightest foam they’ve come out with (yet).
What are you waiting for?!
5. NoBull Black Ivy Trainers
NoBull Trainers have become super, super popular among Crossfitters over the past couple of years.
Not only do they make minimalistic, modern trainers that can work for anyone’s aesthetic, but they offer many features that can make your workouts better, easier, and more comfortable.
When you add a feature or two that works for people who suffer from plantar fasciitis, you definitely get one of the best CrossFit shoes for plantar fasciitis ever. Where do we even start? The NoBull Trainers are made with SuperFabric that’s lightweight and breathable.
They’re equipped with guard plates placed around the problem areas to ensure durability. They’re padded for added comfort, and they’re textured for enough traction to ensure no one’s slipping while running or working out.
Sure, they’re a little on the expensive side, but you can count on them to get you through your workouts pain-free.
6. Under Armour TriBase Reign 3
The Under Armour TriBase Reign 3 sneakers are a tough shoe to beat when we’re talking about Crossfit. They feature some of the greatest technological advancements and make for some of the best high-performance workout shoes out there.
Of course, they’re one of the best CrossFit shoes for plantar fasciitis, too. As for those technological advancements, these shoes are equipped with TriBase outsoles that ensure maximum contact with the ground and promote natural movements.
They offer you stability and flexibility which is bound to make your CrossFit workouts much more comfortable. They also feature Micro G foam midsoles that ensure shock absorption and alleviate pressure off your feet. They’re made with lightweight, breathable fabrics, but they’re durable, nonetheless.
But, we should mention the fact that these Under Armour sneakers are quite heavy-duty and might not be for everyone. Depending on your workout regime, you might be better off with sneakers that are a bit simpler. With that out of the way, these are available on Amazon and they’re often on sale so check them out!
7. Hoka One One Bondi 7
Now, we don’t always need certificates to prove that something’s worth our money. But, when we do get them, we’re pretty happy to know we didn’t waste our money on something that doesn’t necessarily serve us and our needs.
Hence, the fact that the Hoka One One Bondi 7 sneakers are certified by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) for relieving foot pain makes us think we made the right choice.
They’re made with super, super thick soles and a “rocker” design which tends to take away some of the pressure off your feet and soothe your plantar fascia. They’re padded and cushioned around the problem areas, and they’re great at absorbing the shock from running, working out, and weightlifting.
They’re also enriched with memory foam around the ankle for added stability and support. These features ensure you have a great CrossFit workout without needing different types of shoes for different exercises.
8. Vionic Orthaheel Walker
“Umm, these sneakers have removable orthotics?!” That was our reaction when we stumbled upon these bad boys while we were scouring the world wide web for the best CrossFit shoes for plantar fasciitis.
We were stoked to discover sneakers that are designed to support your feet but also offer the possibility to switch out some of the parts you might (not) need.
What makes the Vionic Orthaheel Walker appropriate for people suffering from plantar fasciitis? First, they’re wider than other sneakers and they offer enough room for your foot to move around without compromising stability and support.
They are, of course, equipped with orthotics that can support your arches and correct your stride – and you can switch them out depending on your needs. They feature something known as Active Motion System technology for maximum comfort and gait efficiency.
They go from $51.19 to $162.00 on Amazon, depending on how wide you want them to be.
9. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21
Now, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 might be the best CrossFit shoes for plantar fasciitis because they’re designed for runners, Crossfitters, and gym goers that tend toward overpronation.
They feature a support system that prevents your feet from moving too much and ensure they’re supported, secure, and protected. They take away some of the pressure off your feet.
Other than that, they’re also equipped with a double layer of cushioning across the length of the sneaker for added comfort and stability.
There is also a 12-millimeter drop from the heel of the shoe to the toe, which is responsible for keeping the weight distributed across your feet (rather than putting the weight on top of your plantar fascia). Oh and, they’ve been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance.
As for the price, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 sneakers are anywhere between $91.00 and $225.00 on Amazon. They’re worth every cent, though!
10. Saucony Hurricane ISO 5
Here’s the thing, the Saucony Hurricane ISO 5 sneakers are a great affordable alternative for anyone who’s not willing to break the bank for the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 sneakers.
These two beauties share similar features, but the Saucony Hurricane ISO 5 sneakers are way cheaper.
They’re excellent for Crossfitters dealing with overpronation because they’re designed to improve your posture and keep you aligned. They’re padded and cushioned for added comfort, and they’re made with lightweight, breathable fabrics to ensure your feet stay dry.
They’re quite supportive, but they’re flexible enough to allow your feet to move without problems. They alleviate the pressure off your plantar fascia and they offer decent shock absorption.
Sure, they might not be the best CrossFit shoes for plantar fascia, but they’re pretty great for the price.
11. Nike Men’s Air Monarch Iv (4e) Cross Trainers
Nike’s one of those brands that’s popular across the world. But, the Nike Men’s Air Monarch Iv (4e) Cross Trainers happen to be one of those hidden gems not many people know about – and that’s not even what makes them special.
Right off the bat, the very name (4e) suggests that these sneakers are extra, extra wide for those CrossFitters that have wider feet or need more space.
They’re padded for comfort, and fairly breathable because they’re made with lightweight fabrics that allow airflow. They’re highly durable and they’re appropriate for different exercises. Equipped with Phylon midsoles, they offer plenty of stability and support.
They’re enriched with rubber outsoles that provide traction and protect you from slipping and falling. But, they’re kind of squeaky, which can get annoying quickly. And, you can get them on Amazon with prices ranging from $39.49 to $152.18 depending on the size, style, and fit.
12. Mizuno Wave Rider 24
Now, these are some odd-looking sneakers! And, we’re obsessed with them considering they’re one of the best CrossFit shoes for plantar fasciitis because of Mizuno’s Wave technology!
Hence, the Mizuno Wave Rider 24 sneakers deserve a round of applause for employing novice technologies to make working out better and easier than ever.
What does Mizuno’s Wave technology do, though? Turns out the technology we’re talking about used uses wave-shaped plates to prevent overpronation and offer arch support. While that’s great for your plantar fascia, that’s not everything these sneakers offer.
They’re cushioned enough to alleviate the pressure off your feet and disperse the energy when you’re running, working out, or weightlifting. They’re making the heel-to-toe transition easier, smoother, and more comfortable.
And, they’re made with lightweight, breathable fabrics to allow airflow.
13. Ryka Influence Cross-Training Shoes
Ryka’s known as one of those brands that make great workout sneakers, and they’ve definitely outdone themselves with the Ryka Influence Cross-Training Shoes.
These are among the best CrossFit shoes for plantar fasciitis because they’re designed to help roll your foot from heel to toe while you’re running, working out, or weightlifting.
They’re made with lightweight, stretchy fabrics and durable mesh to allow airflow and ensure a proper, secure fit. They feature synthetic straps on the sides for added support and stability.
And, they’re equipped with dual-density EVA foam midsoles that provide shock absorption and distribute the weight across the foot. They are also enriched with rubber outsoles that offer enough traction and sufficient grip to support movements that might strain your plantar fascia.
And, we can’t forget about the pivot point around the area of the ball of the foot which allows smoother movements and transitions between different exercises. Get them on Amazon for a price ranging between $48.79 and $139.36.
14. Adidas Powerlift 5 Training Shoes
We’re ending the “best CrossFit shoes for plantar fasciitis” list with a bang! The Adidas Powerlift 5 Training Shoes deserve a spot because they’re comfortable, supportive, and durable.
They’re equipped with features guaranteed to ease the discomfort caused by plantar fasciitis even though they’re primarily lifting sneakers.
Unlike the Adipower Weightlifting II, the Adidas Powerlift 5 Training Shoes feature a smaller heel elevation (a modest 0.6 inches rather than the 0.75-1 inch elevation). They’re more versatile than your average lifting sneakers and are appropriate for working out, CrossFitting, and running.
They’re made with hook-and-loop straps to lock down your feet and provide them with stability and support. They have a wider toe box for people with wider feet and they’re made with lightweight, breathable fabrics.
But, we should also underline the fact that they offer very, very little padding which can be problematic for plantar fasciitis. Whichever sneakers you opt for, you’re guaranteed to have a great CrossFit experience. Good luck!
Read more: The 8 Best Skechers For Plantar Fasciitis You’ll Love
