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Tuesday, July 29, 2025

The 9 Finest Mountaineering Boots for Plantar Fasciitis in 2025, Examined


When you’ve gotten painful plantar fasciitis, it may be difficult to search out footwear that helps alleviate your signs and stop recurrences. However it’s attainable to cut back the irritation of the plantar fascia—the band of tissue supporting the arches of your toes—by carrying boots with nice arch assist and further cushioning beneath the heel. One of the best climbing boots for plantar fasciitis are agency, not too versatile, and constructed to assist your physique weight, says podiatrist Saylee Tulpule, DPM.

To search out the highest climbing boots for plantar fasciitis, we began by asking board-certified podiatrists and different specialists which key options every pair ought to have. Then, we examined 100 expert-approved climbing boots from prime manufacturers. We wore every shoe whereas climbing on totally different terrains and standing for lengthy intervals of time. Our ultimate alternatives obtained excessive scores for match, assist, responsiveness, cushioning, consolation, high quality, and worth.

Keen Women’s Targhee

Credit score: REI
Professionals

  • Nice traction

  • Waterproof

  • Very sturdy

Key Specs

Sizes: Girls’s 5-11 | Colours: 11 | Supplies: Leather-based and mesh higher, mesh lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole | APMA-Licensed: No | Our Total Ranking: 4.8/5

Who They’re For

Finest for leisure day hikers who desire a sturdy, waterproof boot for out of doors adventures.

Why We Love Them

Eager’s Targhee III Mid Mountaineering Boots are our prime suggestion for girls, because of their distinctive arch assist and cushioning that assist preserve plantar fasciitis at bay. Throughout check hikes, we have been impressed by the boots’ rugged, sturdy design. We additionally love that the versatile higher provided a shut, comfy match from our first trek. 

On the floor, the Targhee III is an efficient, waterproof boot with deep lugs that present loads of grippy traction on the path. However what units these boots aside is their technical options, together with a strap within the lacing system that wraps across the heel for stability, a sturdy ankle cuff, and an abrasion-resistant toe guard. 

Throughout testing, we have been impressed by how nicely the Targhee III’s comfortable midsole supported our heels and arches. Even higher, they’ve odor-control expertise to assist preserve your toes contemporary, even in heat climate. Extremely protecting and well-made, they have been a transparent alternative for our greatest girls’s climbing boot for plantar fasciitis decide.

Additionally out there in males’s sizes at Amazon and Eager.

Potential Flaws

  • Whereas it does supply stellar assist and cushioning, the Targhee III might not be padded sufficient for multi-day hikes with heavy packs.

Most Helpful Perception

“These boots are actually well-made and could be a strong funding. They really feel actually secure and responsive on surfaces, and never overly padded or cushioned on the ankle collar, which I personally like as a result of they aren’t tight on my extra muscular ankles. They’re additionally very protecting!” —Jessica M., Verywell Match product tester

Amazon Oboz Men's Bridger Mid B-Dry Hiking Boot

Credit score: Amazon
Professionals

  • Effectively-defined arch

  • Waterproof

  • Glorious traction

Key Specs

Sizes: Males’s 7-13 | Colours: 3 | Supplies: Leather-based and material higher, nylon mesh lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole | APMA-Licensed: No | Our Total Ranking: 4.7/5

Who They’re For

Finest for out of doors fanatics who want a sturdy, supportive climbing boot that may deal with robust situations.

Why We Love Them

For climbing, we suggest swapping your strolling sneakers for sturdy boots with dependable traction, like Oboz’s Bridger Mid B-DRY Mountaineering Boot. Throughout check hikes, they delivered consolation and stability with out feeling too cumbersome or stiff. Their comfortable cushioning and comfortable heel counter work collectively to maintain toes feeling supported whereas stopping plantar fasciitis ache. Plus, the boots’ insole includes a well-defined arch, whereas a nylon shank and protecting footplate defend your toes in opposition to sticks, rocks, and different particles.

We have been additionally impressed by how this pair balances waterproofing and breathability. They successfully saved water out but in addition allowed sweat to flee to forestall overheated, clammy toes. And we like that the rubber outsole with 4-millimeter multidirectional lugs felt grippy and durable—even on slick, technical terrain.

Additionally out there in girls’s sizes at Amazon, REI, and Oboz.

Potential Flaws

  • This pair is pricier than a number of the different climbing boots on our record, however we expect they’re definitely worth the funding for his or her distinctive assist and luxury.
  • We like that these boots are available huge sizes, for a extra exact match. Nevertheless, they do are likely to run small, so we suggest ordering one dimension up out of your regular.

Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid Gore-tex Women's

Credit score: REI

Key Specs

Sizes: Girls’s 5-11 | Colours: 4 | Supplies: Leather-based and mesh higher, mesh lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole | APMA-Licensed: No | Our Total Ranking: 4.9/5

Who They’re For

Finest for quick hikes over tough trails in moist climate. 

Why We Love Them

Salomon’s X Extremely 4 Mid GTX Mountaineering Boots are able to sort out all varieties of climate and terrain, because of their dependable waterproofing and ultra-grippy soles. Throughout testing, we seen that the boots’ glorious assist and luxury fends off plantar fasciitis ache, with out feeling too heavy or stiff. We additionally like that they’re designed with shock-absorbing foam and an OrthoLite insole that molds to your toes for a custom-like match.

When testing these boots, we discovered them to be pretty versatile, however nonetheless very supportive within the arch space. The Gore-Tex membrane and gusseted tongue successfully block water and particles from getting in. In the meantime, the sturdy rubber sole delivered dependable grip on moist, dry, onerous, and unfastened surfaces, whereas additionally providing management on tough descents throughout testing. We have been additionally impressed with the boots’ roomy toe field that allow our toes naturally splay out, for additional stability and luxury. 

Additionally out there in males’s sizes at Amazon

Potential Flaws

  • Though the boots are breathable, we did discover that the extremely efficient waterproofing could make toes a bit sweaty throughout extremely popular hikes.

Most Helpful Perception

“These are probably the most comfy climbing boots that I’ve ever examined. They’re actually versatile and light-weight, but supply loads of cushion, assist, and safety throughout hikes. Whereas it has a sporty look that I wasn’t certain I’d love, it’s not over-the-top in particular person and is available in very nice, earthy colorways that look nice on.” —Jessica M., Verywell Match product tester

columbia-womens-newton-ridge-plus-hiking-boot

Credit score: Amazon

Key Specs

Sizes: Girls’s 5-12 | Colours: 17 | Supplies: Leather-based and suede higher, foam midsole, rubber outsole | APMA-Licensed: No | Our Total Ranking: 4.9/5

Who They’re For

Finest for mild climbing or informal put on.

Why We Love Them

On a price range? You don’t must sacrifice high quality, consolation, or assist with Columbia’s Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Mountaineering Boot. They boast loads of cushioning and stability proper the place you want it most, whereas nonetheless sustaining a light-weight really feel. After we examined them on the path, we seen the insole felt supportive and extremely cushioned, for combatting plantar fasciitis and foot fatigue.

We have been additionally impressed by the Newton’s waterproof, seam-sealed development—a characteristic that’s not usually seen at this budget-friendly value. With a grippy, rubber sole, they carried out nicely on technical trails, in addition to moist and dry surfaces. We additionally love that they arrive in greater than a dozen impartial and enjoyable colours, so you’ll be able to select a pair that speaks to your particular person type.

Additionally out there in males’s sizes at Dick’s Sporting Items and Columbia.

Potential Flaws

  • Throughout testing, the toe field didn’t really feel as spacious as we’d like. However they do are available huge sizes for many who want a roomier match.
  • Whereas the light-weight, versatile really feel makes this pair excellent for day hikes, sightseeing, or informal put on, they’re not your best option for carrying heavy pack masses.

Merrell Men's Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boot

Credit score: REI
Professionals

  • Glorious traction

  • Detachable insoles

  • Nice shock absorption

Key Specs

Sizes: Males’s 7-14 | Colours: 6 | Supplies: Leather-based and textile mesh higher, mesh lining, foam midsole, rubber sole | APMA-Licensed: No | Our Total Ranking: 5/5

Who They’re For

Finest for hikers with heel ache who want a rugged boot with nice assist.

Why We Love Them

A favourite amongst hikers, Merrell’s Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Mountaineering Boot takes our most sturdy spot due to its consolation, assist, and stability. Throughout check hikes, we have been impressed with the shoe’s strong development and sturdiness. With a padded, however versatile, collar and a molded arch within the midsole for assist, they felt comfy straight away. The Moab 3’s heel can be elevated and extraordinarily shock-absorbent, which is very useful for plantar fasciitis.

Like a few of our different prime picks, these boots are waterproof, however they’re nonetheless breathable sufficient that your toes gained’t overheat. We love that the thick tongue can be designed to maintain out grime, moisture, and particles, whereas a rubber toe cap supplies extra safety in entrance. Plus, the rubber sole has 5-millimeter lugs that ship nice traction—even whereas climbing on steep grime trails, we discovered that these boots saved us feeling regular and sure-footed. With a full-grain leather-based higher, the Moab 3 is each robust and straightforward to put on, making it probably the most sturdy boot we examined. 

Additionally out there in girls’s sizes at Amazon, REI, and Merrell.

Potential Flaws

  • Throughout testing, we seen that these boots run huge, which can be a problem you probably have slim toes.

Most Helpful Perception

“My companion says these are strong but comfy climbing boots that he can inform will likely be long-lasting. They bought him up and down steep grime trails simply due to their pure traction.” —Jessica M., Verywell Match product tester

L.L.Bean Original Bean Boot 6"

Credit score: L.L.Bean
Professionals

  • Waterproof

  • Simple to wash

  • Is available in three widths

Key Specs

Sizes: Girls’s 6-11 | Colours: 1 | Supplies: Leather-based higher, leather-based and textile lining and footbed, rubber outsole | APMA-Licensed: No | Our Total Ranking: 5/5

Who They’re For

Finest for stomping by way of moist, muddy situations.

Why We Love Them

For strolling or working in moist climate, it’s robust to beat the safety, sturdiness, and luxury you get from L.L.Bean’s Bean Boots. This tried and true, duck boot hybrid includes a versatile, comfy sole and a metal midsole shank for lateral and arch assist, making them a sensible alternative for anybody liable to plantar fasciitis. Throughout testing, our toes remained pain-free, even after a full day of wear and tear. With a versatile type and the straightforward consolation of an on a regular basis shoe, we discovered ourselves reaching for these boots for every part from climbing to informal put on.

The sturdy rubber outsoles delivered distinctive traction in quite a lot of situations, and we love that the waterproofing saved our toes fully dry in moist climate. We additionally appreciated that these boots have been straightforward to wash—all we needed to do was hose them down. Designed with a basic silhouette, the Bean Boot has a lace-up closure and is available in three totally different widths, so discovering the fitting match is straightforward.

Additionally out there in males’s sizes at Zappos and L.L.Bean.

Potential Flaws

  • Though we didn’t have any points with the connected tongue, we expect it’d make it tougher for some wearers to get these boots on. We discovered that the tongue helped preserve out water, so we expect it’s price any added problem.

Most Helpful Perception

“I like the match of those boots—having a large foot, it is onerous to discover a shoe that matches accurately, however this pair does the trick. Additionally, I like the look of those. I additionally take pleasure in how waterproof they’re!” —Megan W., Verywell Match product tester

Orthofeet Alps Boots

Credit score: Amazon
Professionals

  • Has a zipper and laces

  • Is available in three widths

  • Rocker design

Key Specs

Sizes: Girls’s 5 to 12 | Colours: 2 | Supplies: Artificial higher, foam midsole, rubber sole | APMA-Licensed: Sure

Who They’re For

Finest for anybody who wants a heat, weather-resistant boot for shoveling snow or strolling the canine in wintry situations. 

Why We Love Them

When the climate turns chilly and snowy, we suggest reaching for Orthofeet’s Alps Waterproof Boots for equal safety from the weather and plantar fasciitis ache. Designed with orthotic insoles which have anatomical arch assist, this pair promotes higher alignment to ease ache in your toes and heels. Plus, the ergonomic, cushioned sole softens influence and relieves stress in your heel. We additionally like that this pair has a gentle rocker design that provides a spring to your step and helps scale back fatigue.

Together with safety from plantar fasciitis, these boots will preserve your toes heat and dry in harsh climate, because of the waterproof higher, gusseted tongue, and sealed seams. These APMA-approved boots additionally characteristic a spacious toe field that stops blisters whereas assuaging stress on bunions and hammertoes. Plus, they’re out there in three widths, if you happen to want much more room. And with a facet zipper and basic laces, they’re a cinch to get on and off.

Potential Flaws

  • The slip-resistant rubber outsole isn’t as grippy as a number of the climbing books we’ve examined. However it’s nonetheless sufficient to maintain you regular in your toes in moist or icy situations.

Hoka Anacapa Breeze Mid Boot

Credit score: Hoka

Key Specs

Sizes: Girls’s 5-11 | Colours: 5 | Supplies: Mesh and recycled yarn higher, foam midsole, rubber outsole | APMA-Licensed: Sure | Our Total Ranking: 4.3/5

Who They’re For

Finest for hikers who additionally sometimes run on the paths. 

Why We Love Them

Hoka brings the comfortable, light-weight really feel of their common trainers to a climbing boot with the Anacapa Breeze Mid Mountaineering Boot. With plush cushioning and strong arch assist, these sneakers are designed to assist preserve your plantar fasciitis at bay. Throughout testing, we have been impressed by how comfortable the midsole felt, holding our toes pain-free all through every trek. Plus, the Anacapa Breeze is light-weight, versatile, and breathable sufficient that it’s appropriate for each climbing and path operating.

We have been additionally impressed by this pair’s thick, grippy outsole, which carried out nicely on slippery and rocky surfaces. These sturdy, AMPA-approved boots even have a huge base for higher stability and a roomy toe field for excellent stability. The excessive heel counter and massive pull tab, in addition to the three units of lace hooks, made it extraordinarily straightforward to get these sneakers on and off—an enormous plus for climbing boots and a characteristic that set these aside throughout testing.

Additionally out there in males’s sizes at Dick’s Sporting Items and Hoka.

Potential Flaws

  • Though this pair’s light-weight really feel helped preserve us nimble on the paths, the higher materials isn’t waterproof, and it’s on the thinner facet. This implies the Anacapa might not be as protecting as another boots on our record, like our picks from Merrell and Eager.
  • Throughout testing, we seen that the bigger heel felt somewhat thick and hulking.

Most Helpful Perception

“I like how grippy the soles of those sneakers are, and that my toes really feel cushioned and do not harm on the finish of a protracted hike.” —Grace Ok., Verywell Match product tester

What to Search for in Mountaineering Boots for Plantar Fasciitis

  • Goal: For climbing, search for inflexible boots, since versatile pairs will put extra stress in your plantar fascia. In the event you plan to hike in chilly or wet climate, you’ll need insulated, waterproof boots with deep lugs that can grip snow, mud, or unfastened grime nicely. Types with shallower treads are finest for informal put on and strolling on paved surfaces.
  • Supplies: Most boots are comprised of a mixture of leather-based, rubber, polyester, nylon, and mesh. Leather-based boots could also be extra sturdy, however they’re additionally heavier. Boots made with polyester or mesh uppers aren’t as long-lasting, however they’re extra light-weight and breathable.
  • Heel Peak: Tulpule recommends huge, block heels which can be two inches excessive (at most). Any greater could result in ache—plus, it might probably have an effect on your strolling posture and stability. In the event you’ll be carrying your boots for lengthy intervals of time, search for a barely elevated heel, which will increase the arch peak and takes stress off of your plantar fascia, says podiatrist Janine Ferrigno-Taddeo, DPM.
  • Cushioning: The cushioning in a boot’s footbed can relieve ache by absorbing shock as you stroll, softening the influence out of your heels hitting the bottom. Simply be sure that the midsole isn’t so plush that it compromises on assist.
  • APMA Seal: You may really feel assured about selecting boots which have obtained the American Podiatric Medical Affiliation’s (APMA) Seal of Acceptance. With a purpose to earn the seal, every product is reviewed by a bunch of podiatrists. As soon as it meets sure standards, the seal is awarded to designate the boot as a product that promotes good foot well being. The committee chooses merchandise primarily based on their total high quality, wearability, security, and effectiveness.
Take into account insulation, supplies, heel peak, and cushioning when deciding on boots.

Verywell Match / Jessica Murtaugh


How We Examined the Mountaineering Boots for Plantar Fasciitis

To search out the very best climbing boots for plantar fasciitis, we examined 100 choices on miles of walks and hikes. Throughout testing, we consider every shoe primarily based on these necessary standards:

  • High quality: After we first put the boots on, we look at their development. Do they appear well-made? Then, we carry out the bend check, checking that they solely bend proper behind the toe (not on the arch). We additionally attempt to twist them to ensure they’re inflexible and secure.
  • Match: Through the first put on, we additionally assess the match. Do the boots really feel too huge or slim? We notice whether or not we’re in a position to wiggle our toes. Do our heels slide out and in, or is the match safe? We evaluate these observations to the producer’s specs to find out whether or not the boots run small, massive, slim, or huge.
  • Consolation: Whereas strolling and climbing within the boots, we assess how comfy they really feel. Do the boots soothe or exacerbate our plantar fasciitis ache? We additionally take note of any ache or stress in our heels and arches. Can we discover any blisters, chafing, or irritation after check walks?
  • Assist: As we stroll and hike on totally different terrains, we notice whether or not the boots make it simpler or tougher. Can we really feel regular on our toes? Do our toes, ankles, and knees really feel secure and supported?
  • Responsiveness: We take note of whether or not the boots push us ahead with every step. Can we discover fast or sluggish transitions between strides? We additionally notice whether or not the boots take in influence whereas strolling, or if we really feel any ache in our heels. By the tip of the check, does the midsole nonetheless really feel the identical underfoot?
  • Cushioning: One of the best boots for plantar fasciitis have thick cushioning that helps and cradles your toes. As we hike or stroll in every pair, we assess whether or not the padding feels agency or squishy. We additionally notice if there may be any additional padding within the heel, forefoot, tongue, or collar.
  • Worth: To charge a climbing boot’s worth, we wait to take a look at its value till the tip of the testing interval, after we’ve evaluated it in all different classes. Based mostly on their efficiency throughout testing, can we really feel the boots are priced pretty? Or would we solely purchase them in the event that they went on sale?

Our Specialists

We consulted foot and shoe specialists all through our analysis, testing, and reporting course of. Some, like Tulpule, helped us perceive which key options to search for in every pair. Others, like Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, a podiatrist, and Devon Vanoostveen, international advertising and marketing supervisor at Merrell, helped form our testing course of. Though we select merchandise independently, skilled steering influences our decisions.

  • Saylee Tulpule, DPM, a podiatrist with Foot and Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic in Maryland
  • Janine Ferrigno-Taddeo, DPM, a podiatrist with the Millburn Podiatry Group in New Jersey
  • Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, a podiatrist primarily based in New York
  • Devon Vanoostveen, international advertising and marketing supervisor at Merrell

Ceaselessly Requested Questions

What sort of sneakers do you have to put on you probably have plantar fasciitis? 

When you have plantar fasciitis, you must search for sneakers with glorious arch assist, shock-absorbing cushioning, a inflexible sole, and a thick midsole or a rocker-shaped sole to divert the influence of strolling away out of your heels. Added cushioning and arch assist will make your arches really feel extra comfy and enhance the best way your plantar fascia capabilities, says Tulpule. Additionally, test for a agency heel counter (the half behind your heel), which is able to assist forestall your plantar fascia from stretching abnormally. 

Is arch assist necessary for plantar fasciitis? 

Sure—not solely will built-in arch assist assist deal with your plantar fasciitis signs, however it might probably additionally forestall a recurrence by holding your plantar fascia from changing into infected, Ferrigno-Taddeo says. In the event you at the moment put on custom-made orthotics, search for boots with detachable footbeds so you’ll be able to simply switch them. 

Is reminiscence foam good for plantar fasciitis? 

Whereas reminiscence foam can really feel plush and cozy underfoot, it’s extra squishy than springy, so it doesn’t supply nice arch assist. When you have plantar fasciitis, you’re higher off carrying sneakers with firmer, extra supportive foam cushioning.

Which sneakers do you have to keep away from carrying you probably have plantar fasciitis?

When you have plantar fasciitis, keep away from carrying ill-fitting, unsupportive, or poorly cushioned footwear, like flip-flops, sandals, or minimalist sneakers. Additionally, search for a barely elevated heel—keep away from carrying sneakers which can be the identical peak within the entrance and within the again, Valencia says.

Why Belief Verywell Match

Christine Luff, ACE-CPT is a Verywell Match author with 20 years of expertise writing and enhancing well being and health content material. As an authorized private coach, operating coach, and avid runner, she’s all the time researching and testing trainers and different health gear. She has a historical past of plantar fasciitis, however has been in a position to forestall pesky flare-ups by carrying sneakers with the fitting assist and cushioning for her high-arched toes. For this text, Christine seemed over the check outcomes from our lab to assist compile our prime picks.

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