Latest news with #foothealth
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Stride Soles Disrupts $6.7 Billion Orthotics Market with Direct-to-Consumer, Tech-Enabled Custom Insoles
As demand for orthopedic insoles accelerates, Stride Soles eliminates barriers to clinical-grade orthotics with a digital-first, sustainable model NEW YORK, July 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- With orthopedic insole demand projected to more than double from $3.2 billion in 2025 to $6.7 billion by 2035, Stride Soles is redefining access to clinical-grade custom orthotics. By eliminating traditional barriers of cost, access, and production time, Stride delivers precision-fit orthotics through a direct-to-consumer platform. Frustrated by the high cost and slow delivery of clinic-made orthotics, CEO Greg Gerla partnered with physician Dr. Zac Cartun, MD, in 2021 to create a better way. Working with German podiatrists and biomechanical experts, they developed Stride's process: a podiatrist-designed intake quiz, smartphone 3D foot scan, and gait analysis — all without a clinic visit. "As interest in foot health and injury prevention rises, people want orthotics that actively support performance and long-term mobility," said Dr. Dietmar Walter, Head of Podiatry at Stride Soles. "Stride delivers clinical-grade orthotics direct to consumers, with no compromise on precision." Market analysts cite aging populations, sports participation, chronic foot conditions, and demand for sustainable solutions as key growth drivers. Investor confidence in the insole category is also surging: Coats Group recently announced its $770 million acquisition of insole-maker OrthoLite, underscoring both the market's trajectory and the demand for scalable, sustainable solutions. Stride pairs German engineering with eco-conscious 3D printing, reducing production waste by 97% while delivering a precision fit. Made from durable TPU bioplastic and finished with vegan leather, Stride orthotics are designed to provide biomechanical support and enhance foot function — supporting healthier movement patterns and promoting long-term mobility. According to Stride's medical team, key benefits associated with clinical-grade orthotics may include: Improved alignment and posture through stabilized foot mechanics Reduced foot discomfort tied to conditions like plantar fasciitis, flat feet, or overpronation Enhanced shock absorption and pressure distribution, potentially reducing joint strain Increased comfort and endurance during daily activity and sports Encouragement of natural arch strength over time, supporting injury prevention By combining precision craftsmanship with digital innovation, Stride aims to give consumers proactive access to clinical-grade foot support — without the traditional clinic markup. About Stride SolesFounded by Greg Gerla, Dr. Zac Cartun, MD, and a team of German podiatrists, Stride Soles delivers custom, medical-grade orthotics worldwide through digital innovation and clinical expertise. Learn more at Media Contact:Meryl Haley Communicationsmeryl@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Stride Soles Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Daily Mail
4 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
I'm a podiatrist - here are three huge mistakes people make with their feet
A leading foot health expert has revealed three disastrous—and surprisingly common—mistakes people make when it comes to looking after their feet. Maddie Tait, a London-based podiatrist, says that wearing shoes that are too small, failing to moisturise the feet, and relying on flip-flops can all lead to painful problems including blisters, swelling, cracked heels and callouses. In a recent video posted on her TikTok account @mtpodiatry, she said the single most damaging habit is wearing shoes that are too tight. 'Your feet will swell and expand during the day,' she said. 'So, you'll most likely cause a blister quite quickly.' Blisters are small, fluid-filled pockets that form under the skin due to friction—typically on the feet. While painful, the NHS warns against popping them, as doing so can increase the risk of infection. To help a blister heal and prevent infection, pharmacists can recommend a plaster or dressing to keep the area clean and protected. Last year, a poll of 2,000 adults found 44 per cent of people had developed foot issues like bunions and callouses from wearing shoes that are too small. The survey, commissioned by DB Wider Fit Shoes, also found that bunions impaired 36 per cent of people's ability to walk. Bunions are bony bumps that form on the joint at the base of the big toe, forcing it to lean inwards towards the smaller toes. They can be extremely painful and are typically caused by ill-fitting shoes or inherited structural issues in the foot. If you're unfortunate enough to develop a bunion, treatment options include surgery or non-surgical measures such as pain relief and wearing wider-fitting footwear. Another common issue is calluses—thickened, hardened patches of skin caused by repeated pressure or friction. These can often be managed at home by soaking the feet in warm water, although in more severe cases, a referral to a foot specialist may be required. The next mistake podiatrist Maddie Tait warns against is failing to moisturise your feet—especially during warmer months. 'During the summer being on the beaches or on the sand or in the sun, our feet need a bit more moisturiser,' she said. 'We can develop cracked heals or corns or callus so, make sure you moisturise your feet throughout the year, but definitely in the summer.' In contrast to calluses, corns are smaller, typically round or oval, and can be quite painful do to pressure on deeper layers of the skin. The NHS advice for corns is also to soak them in warm water to soften them, but again, in some cases they may need specialist treatments. If either a corn or a callus or corn appears inflamed or is oozing pus or clear fluid it may be infected and need antibiotic treatment. The third mistake she warned against was wearing flat flip flops when you're out walking. She said: 'I don't mind them around the beach, or around the pool, but I would not recommend that you walk too far in the classic thong style sandals.' While wearing flip flops for short distances isn't likely harmful, walking in them for long periods of time can put you at risk of problems. Previously studies have shown that when people wear flip-flops, they take shorter steps and often curl their toes to keep them on. This has been found to the natural gait and reduces muscle engagement which over time can cause foot and joint pain. It isn't only dangerous to your foot health as other studies have shown wearing flip flops while driving is linked to serious road accidents.
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Travel + Leisure
11-07-2025
- Travel + Leisure
These Podiatrist-approved Comfortable Sandals Are a 'Life-saver' According to Travelers—and Just $30
Flip-flops are probably not what you'd think your podiatrist would recommend for issues like plantar fasciitis or bone spurs. But, the Aerothotic sandals are no ordinary flip-flops—and they have more than 30,000 five-star ratings at Amazon to prove it. From hiking and biking to navigating swaying cruise ships and 500-acre theme parks, shoppers have put these comfy, supportive sandals to the test. The $30 flip-flops have earned rave reviews from professionals constantly on their feet, such as nurses and teachers who opt for them as a recovery shoe for their off days. And, travelers attest to their support and durability even on slick, rocky trails. We pored over feedback from reviewers to find out what makes these the seemingly most comfortable flip-flops—and what's earned them the nod of approval from podiatrists, too. These Aerothotic shoes are some of the few flip-flops to earn the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, which means that they promote good foot health. Some key features include: high arches, supportive heel cups for improved balance, gel insoles that contour to each unique foot shape, and cushiony posts that don't create blisters between the toes. One reviewer wrote that they paid $200 for tennis shoes and inserts to alleviate their plantar fasciitis and spurs, but their feet still hurt until they switched to these flip-flops. Now, they walk an average of six miles a day, and their feet 'never hurt at all.' Another is a nurse who walks six to eight miles per shift and has hardly any pain when they slip into these after work. A teacher with 'excruciating pain' from plantar fasciitis says that 'within two seconds' of putting these on, their 'foot no longer hurts.' Others recommend them specifically for travel. The comments are brimming with intrepid flip-flop wearers who have worn these shoes on cruise ships, uneven European sidewalks, slippery hiking trails in Hawaii, and more. 'Due to lost luggage, they were the only shoes I had for four days in Madagascar,' one review reads. 'I hiked in them … actually rock scrambled … [and] they were better than my hiking boots as they were flexible, gave great support, stayed on, and the inch-high sole protected my feet.' Your podiatrist might not recommend swapping your proper hiking boots for flip-flops on such a venture, but they would probably endorse squeezing these recovery slip-ons into your suitcase for casual activities like morning coffee runs, beach walks, and hanging out at the hotel. Considering the thousands of glowing reviews calling the shoes a 'life-saver' and a 'saving grace,' we'd say they seem worth the $30. If the words 'recovery flip-flops' appeal to you, then good news: we found more comfortable styles at Amazon, below. At the time of publishing, the price started at $30. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
Yahoo
06-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Podiatrists Are Coming For Your Summer Jellies (And 3 Other Types Of Shoes)
When it comes to foot health and shoes, a few things are paramount: proper fit, comfort and support. Unfortunately, many summer shoes are totally flat, so they don't provide any support for your feet or a comfy platform on which to walk. Podiatrists say you don't have to totally give up cute yet unsupportive shoes, but you should limit the amount of time you spend in them — generally, no more than 2 to 3 hours. You should consider the kind of activity you're doing, too; if you're going for a long walk, you'll want to wear sneakers. And you should be cognizant of the fact that some popular summer shoes can actually lead to foot problems. Which ones? Here's what podiatrists say: Dr. Lesly Robinson, the interim associate dean of academic affairs at the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine in Philadelphia, said her number-one shoe offenders in summer are jelly shoes. Jellies are becoming increasingly popular among not only little kids but adults too, with styles such as heels and sandals. 'Jelly shoes are made of a PVC plastic,' Robinson said. 'It's not a breathable material, so you'll tend to sweat more in these jelly type of shoes.' This can make jelly shoes slippery and cause people to fall, she noted. 'Sometimes these jelly shoes ... become very hot, so you can have chafing, blisters and the plastic environment of a jelly shoe can lead to foot fungus,' said Robinson. Jelly shoes aren't the only popular plastic shoes — Crocs seem to be more and more prevalent every year. Robinson said these can also make your feet sweat because of the material. Dr. Chandler Hubbard, the clinical director at Western University of Health Sciences' Foot and Ankle Center in California, said Crocs can be a good shoe to wear in some places, like the house or the garden, but not everywhere. 'I have nothing against [Crocs]; they're just not the most supportive thing,' said Hubbard. 'They're more like a house shoe to me.' Plastic flip-flops can be a problem too, with Robinson saying 'thin flip-flops that bend and twist' are perhaps best kept to the pool, the beach or hotels. 'If you choose a flip-flop that bends too much and has no arch support, they're not recommended for casual everyday wear,' Robinson said, since they lack proper support. These kinds of shoes can cause stress fractures or make you slip and fall, she noted. And flip-flops sometimes 'get cracked and frayed, so no matter how much you love them, they can also cause different abrasions on your feet and chafing,' Robinson said. Meanwhile, the thongs that go between your toes can lead to irritation and blisters, she said. Robinson noted, however, that you could consider a flip-flop with arch support. Brands like Clarks and FitFlop typically provide more support and stability than plastic, bendy flip-flops that cost only a couple of bucks. Still, flip-flops with arch support aren't for everyday use, either. 'I wouldn't recommend them for longer walks — just for a casual activity,' stated Robinson. 'If you're doing a longer walk or any type of any type of standing or walking greater than ... two to three hours, I don't recommend flip-flops at all.' Gladiator sandals are popular summer shoes that wrap around your ankle, but Robinson said they aren't a proper fit for everyone. 'If you're prone to ankle swelling, those sandals aren't good for you,' she stated. Many folks will slip on a pair of gladiator sandals before evening drinks or dinner plans, but that isn't ideal, either. 'At the end of the day, that's when your feet are swollen the most — after gravity, after you walk — that's when your feet and your ankles are the largest,' Robinson said. The straps on gladiator sandals can indent your skin and cause abrasions, she added. For anyone shopping for sandals, Hubbard recommended Birkenstock shoes, which have good arch support, and Vionic sandals. 'When you have something when the heel's out in the back, it's harder for your foot to grip during walking,' said Robinson, noting that this leads to 'repetitive stress of gripping because the shoe lacks structure.' 'You can get an Achilles tendinopathy, which is [pain] in the back of your heel,' Robinson explained. 'You can get an ankle sprain because you're trying to grip and the shoe's lack of structure makes it more difficult.' What's more, flat slip-on shoes don't have much shock absorption, which can lead to pain at the ball of your foot, she said. Summertime may include a quick walk to the mailbox without shoes or a barefoot run on the beach, but Hubbard said walking around like this can lead to a range of foot injuries. 'My biggest thing, especially for the summer, is to tell people not to walk barefoot,' she said. 'We don't want people to step on anything, and we do want to have that support.' Walking barefoot commonly leads to burns on hot asphalt and other injuries around broken glass, said Hubbard. 'I pick a lot of glass out of people's feet, unfortunately,' she said. 'We want something that's more stiff,' Hubbard said in terms of ideal footwear. 'I know soft is usually what people are trying to look for because they want to be comfortable, but a stiffer shoe actually gives more support.' Stiffer shoes with a rigid arch can help you stay comfortable when running, walking, hiking or just doing errands, Hubbard noted. 'I usually recommend people change their shoes or replace them after about 500 to 1,000 miles of wear,' she said. 'That's kind of hard for people to estimate if they're not runners and they're logging everything, but about every six months is reasonable to switch out a pair of sneakers.' After half a year, the support in sneakers starts to wear down, Hubbard said. (She recommended sneakers from brands like Hoka, ASICS and New Balance.) When it comes to buying new shoes, Robinson said you should shop later in the day or after exercise, to 'make sure your feet feel comfortable when your feet are the largest.' If you still want to purchase certain shoes even though they might cause foot pain or other issues, that's OK, too. 'I never tell somebody that they can't wear a shoe,' Hubbard said. 'I tell them wear whatever you want ... be comfortable, be cute. Just know that if you're wearing something that isn't supportive, that doesn't have that arch or isn't stiff, or isn't meeting the recommendation, you will possibly have some pain.' For people who don't have chronic pain or other long-term issues, it's fine to wear these kinds of shoes — but make sure you don't do so for long periods of time, or if you plan on running or walking a lot, Robinson said. 'No matter what type of foot you have, or no matter what type of comorbidity or health problem you have, it's really important to check your feet every day — all sides, the bottoms, in between your toes, just to make sure that you're not seeing anything that's new or abnormal,' Hubbard said. If you notice something concerning, make an appointment to see a podiatrist. 'We take for granted being able to walk, and one little thing can change that,' Hubbard said. HuffPost and its publishing partners may receive a commission from some purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently curated by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change. Promising review: "Have plantar fasciitis and these are the only sandals I can wear all day, every day. I'm on my feet anywhere between 8–13 hours a day. These are fabulous." —Stacey $70+ at Amazon Promising review: "I bought these because I like to wear them when I'm at home lounging around. These sandals are comfortable and I can wear them for hours without my wide feet hurting." —RoseO $15 at Amazon Plus, the rubber soles will come in handy on slippery surfaces!Promising review: "This is my second pair of Tevas and I am very pleased with the quality and comfort. I got the Pearl metallic color in a size 8, my usual size, for an amazing price. It goes with pretty much anything and gives me ample arch support. You simply cannot ask for more in a pair of sandals meant for being active and out and about, but is still dainty and adorable enough to be worn with a dress. Can't beat that." —ReemAnother promising review: "Comfiest shoes on the planet. I bought them for my trip to Thailand, which included a heavy amount of walking and hiking. I now wear them all the time, even for non-adventurous activities. They are so darn comfortable, and have great grip." —Caroline V. $39.90+ at Amazon Promising review: "Great fit and good looking sandals. 👌" —Glenn promising review: "I love the Arizona style. They are easy to adjust and easy to slip on and off. I suffered from a heel spur and I was able to walk without pain when I changed over to the Arizona sandals. I took several pairs of shoes on vacation and never once did I switch over to a different pair. I can walk for long periods of time with comfort. They are my first choice of shoes." —Glenn B. $54+ at Amazon Promising review: "I love my new Keen Rose sandals. I was looking for a lightweight, comfortable, and stylish sandal for my trip to Spain in the fall, and they fit the bill. They're perfect to wear with jeans, shorts, tights, skirts and casual dresses. They are very comfortable with a little extra room in case my feet swell after a long day of walking. The beautiful rosewood color was exactly what I expected. I also own Keen hiking boots and sandals and I love the fit, quality and durability of Keen footwear. My sister tried mine on when they arrived and immediately ordered a pair for herself." —Shirley G. $73.21+ at Amazon Promising review: "I ordered the black pair in my usual size — size 9, and they fit great! I put the strings through the back tab which gives the sandals even more stability. I didn't find that these run big, especially since I laced them the way I did. They are so cute!!! I want the white pair too!! 🖤🖤🖤" —Toni $75.35+ at Amazon FYI: many reviewers suggest sizing down!Promising review: "Love these shoes! I wear these all summer, with shorts, dresses, everything!!! They're super comfortable and durable. I can walk for hours in these. I have them in five different colors." —mimi13Another promising review: "These slides are — and I mean this in the best way — marshmallows that mold to your individual feet. They are SOOOO comfortable. I've been working from home since the start of the pandemic, and I ordered them to wear in my house after I read that walking around barefoot long-term isn't great for your feet. I wanted something with a little support but that would be comfortable. The reviews for these looked good so I ordered a pair, and now I never want to take them off. The material in every part is molded and squishy so there are no unexpected parts that dig into your skin or chafe. But they're structured enough to provide some support for your arches. 10/10 highly recommend!" —Carrie B $23.99+ at Amazon These have the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance, which is granted to products found to promote good foot health!Promising review: "I purchased these last summer because they were recommended for plantar fasciitis sufferers and I have not been disappointed! These are casual and perfect for everyday wear and I can wear them for hours and hours of walking without any discomfort. I really am happy with these flip-flops!" —INcatlady $38.99 at Amazon These also have the APMA Seal of Acceptance!Promising review: "Best sandals I've ever purchased. Super comfortable, even when walking in them for many hours. Dressier than most flip-flops. Most shoes that are comfortable are really unattractive, but not these. Expensive, but worth it!" —cjkotro $64.94+ at Amazon Promising reviews: "The fit is perfect. Love everything about these. They are super soft and comfortable — I walked for hours the first time wearing them — and have the perfect amount of lift. I may get a second pair." —JodyAnother promising review: "You need these!!! The most comfortable walking sandals. I took them on my trip to Greece and also wear them all the time here in LA. I get so many compliments." —PopQueen $59.70+ at Amazon Promising review: "Super supportive. Most comfortable sandals I own. I had these in a tan color and loved them so much I bought the black ones. They have nice arch support and are pretty secure for a slide sandal. I walked for hours on a Saturday in these and my feet felt great. My back also felt good — not like after wearing the regular flat flip-flops. I will probably get another color. They run very true to size. You can tighten or loosen both straps for a more snug or loose fit as needed." —Lisa Lazaro $24.99+ at Amazon Promising review: "This has to be the most comfortable wedge I've ever owned. I walked up and down the Atlantic City boardwalk for hours. Not a hint of uncomfort. Mind you, I have a neuroma issue. Felt like I was walking around in sneakers. Definitely recommend." —Natasha C. $25+ at Amazon Promising review: "These are so comfortable. Easy to put on. Looks great! So cute. No blisters the first time you wear them. They adjust to any foot fatness level. You know what I mean if you have thick feet and not wide feet. I do think these would be great if you are flat footed and/or fat footed. I have high arches, medium wide feet. Hope this helps! The cushioning on the bottom is plenty unless you are trying to run a marathon. 😎" —adam c haun $18.60+ at Amazon Promising review: "I bought these for a trip that required excessive walking. They were amazing. I only intended to wear them one or two days but ended up wearing them all five days. We walked about 12 hours a day sightseeing and I never had any issues. Love these!!!" —Thorpe5 $39.94+ at Amazon Promising review: "Don't hesitate any further, just buy them! I am super picky about shoes, especially sandals, and these are so comfortable. I wore them for hours walking around downtown and no blisters, no discomfort, nothing. They look amazing, too!" —Summer $32.99+ at Amazon Promising review: "These shoes are perfect, true to size, cute, and stretchy. I was hesitant to buy shoes online, but these sandals are such a good buy for the price. Wore them all day at the zoo (walked like four hours) and no issues. Highly recommend." —Rosemary Ingar $19.99+ at Amazon Promising review: "I wasn't sure about the straps being enough to keep the shoes on my feet, but they were so comfortable and stayed in place without cutting into my feet as the day went on. I was able to walk around the zoo for seven hours with these sandals on and my feet were perfectly fine at the end of the day. The arch support is much nicer than your average sandal." —Erin $39.99+ at Amazon Margaux Margaux Promising review: "Best heels ever! After reading all the hype, I bought two pairs. They are so incredibly comfortable, you feel like you are walking on cushy, flat shoes!!I even walked and sometimes ran in them in airports while traveling across the globe for 20 hours straight and my feet weren't a bit tired or achy. They fit like a glove and look slick and sexy. The cross straps at the toes make my feet look so delicate. They are by far my favorite shoes. Can't wait for Christmas, since my husband will be gifting me my third pair!!" —Tania promising review: "As usual, Margaux does not disappoint. My first pair of City Sandals and they fit perfectly — and were comfortable all evening at a wedding. An ankle injury/surgery a couple of years ago have discouraged me from wearing heels much anymore, but these City Sandal heels are no problem." —Gail F. $345 at Margaux Promising review: "I walked around Epcot for 12 hours in these flip-flops. Not a single sore. So comfortable! Highly recommended." —tina royaAnother promising review: "These are AMAZING. The only flip-flops I've ever owned that I can literally walk all day in comfortably!Took them on an eight-day beach vacation and averaged 5.5 miles per day walking! They stick to your feet firmly — very little 'flopping' lol. I also have a wide foot and have issues finding flip-flops and sandals that my feet won't spill over the sides of. Amazing shoe. And for a Crocs product, not bad-looking!" —S Doeringsfeld $18.74+ at Amazon Psst: They're review: "Love, love, love! I have a VERY difficult time finding sandals that fit my narrow foot. These are the most comfortable sandals I've ever owned. I can tighten them to fit my feet and walk for hours. My first pair went to Italy and Greece with me and it's the only shoe I wore the entire three-week trip. I have started to buy in other colors and currently own three pairs." —Robin A. Laehn $39.33+ at Amazon Promising reviews: "Love these! Very pretty and sooooo comfy! I can wear these while walking for hours and be fashionable at the same time!" —Dee $39.95+ at Amazon Macarena Collection / Etsy Macarena Collection / Etsy Macarena Collection is a small biz based in Buena Park, California, and specializes in colorful Mexican shoe and clothing design. Promising review: "These are just as cute if not more in person!! I love the colors and they're super comfortable. Full disclosure, I got super drunk the first night I wore these and was fine walking for hours. I would totally recommend these!" —Christine Soegaard $59.92 at Etsy FYI, these are best suited for narrow to medium-sized feet. Promising review: "I have three pairs of these now! They feel great. The straps are comfy. When I bought my first pair I worried the straps would make it difficult to get the shoes on and that they might be uncomfortable/cause chafing. I was pleasantly surprised at how comfortable they really are though!!! I alternate the colors and wear them nearly daily now — perfect summer shoes. We went on a beach vacation... We walked for hours at a time and I never once got a blister or felt any discomfort. I didn't have any issues with my feet sliding around uncomfortably when wet — whether from sweat or when it rained. They were great for walking on the beach, too!! These are seriously the best summer shoe!" —Stark $34.95+ at Amazon Promising review: "Worth every penny! I got these for my week-long trip to Puerto Rico and they were amazingly comfortable! I walked hours in them and had no issues. The color is beautiful and the heel is just the perfect height." —Oscar ChavezAnother promising review: "Reaching for these sandals more and more because they're comfy, cute, and elevate my outfits! They didn't require any breaking in and I've worn them for an entire day out and had no issues with long-term wear. Fit was true to size. Going to get another color since I love them so much!" —Nidhi Patel $29.99+ at Amazon Promising review: "I had several pairs in my cart to choose from and I chose wisely by purchasing these shoes! They are incredibly comfortable, they look amazing on my feet! I am older and struggle to be comfortable in heels; these are like a dream. I have a wide foot and I normally wear an 8.5 or 9 WIDE. I ordered a 9 in these and they fit perfectly. The top is stretchy and does not rub my feet in any way. I'm a very happy customer!" —Lisa Rasmussen $37.99+ at Amazon Promising review: "These are comfortable and cute. I wore them to a wedding and I didn't even take off my shoes to go dance. I thought for sure I would be taking them off while dancing but I didn't. I also had blisters on my heels from a few days before from another pair of shoes and these didn't rub against the blisters. I love these and I'm tempted to get a pair in another color." —Kate McGee $39.99+ at Amazon Laboo Leather / Etsy Laboo Leather / Etsy Laboo Leather is a family-owned small biz based in Budapest, Hungary, making handmade leather sandals and wallets. Promising review: "I adore my sandals! They are beautiful and the craftsmanship is amazing. Best of all, they are so soft and comfy I can walk in them for hours. They're also lightweight, so perfect for vacation packing." —alisa388 $107.30+ at Etsy Podiatrists Share 10 Things They'd Never Do (And Wish You Wouldn't Either) The 1 Shoe That Has Helped Eliminate My Dad's Plantar Fasciitis Pain Your Two Favorite Shoes Had A Baby And They're The Only Thing You'll Want To Wear This Summer
Yahoo
06-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Podiatrists Say These Are The Best Women's Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a surprisingly common foot condition. Dr. Jay Spector, an Atlanta-based podiatrist and 32-time marathon runner, has experienced it himself on two occasions. 'Plantar fasciitis is inflammation at the insertion of the plantar fascia as well as pain along the arch of the foot.' Spector told HuffPost via email. 'The plantar fascia, [which] is a ligament that acts like a tendon in motion, holds up the muscles that are in the arch.' He said that although the causes of fascia inflammation are varied, wearing the wrong type of shoes is a common reason. 'There is no best shoe for helping plantar fasciitis but there are definitely poor shoes,' Spector said. According to Dr. Holly Spohn-Gross, podiatrist and president of the California Podiatric Medical Association, the best shoes to manage this condition are ones that will support the arch of the foot and reduce pressure on the inflamed tendon — granted you know which arch morphology, or type, you have. 'If the patient has a low arch or flat foot, I usually recommend a motion control or stabilizing shoe,' Spohn-Gross said. 'If the patient has an average arch, then I lean towards a neutral shoe. Finally, if the patient has a high arch, then I will recommend a neutral or cushioned shoe.' Both Spector and Spohn-Gross typically suggest patients wear running shoes. And in some cases, the need for custom orthotics or orthotic inserts will arise. You can keep reading to see the brands and women's shoes that these podiatrists recommend if you want to prevent or minimize plantar fasciitis pain. The experts consulted for this story do not necessarily endorse the products ahead unless otherwise noted. Kuru Dr. Gary Evans, a podiatrist based in New York City, previously suggested shoes from Kuru, a brand that specializes in pain-relief footwear, and specifically for conditions like plantar fasciitis. Based on this brand mention, we chose the Loma platform sandal, an everyday walking sandal that promises to offer superior support and a chic profile. Like most of Kuru's designs, these shoes offer dynamic heel support and an arch-supportive footbed (a breathable cork footbed in this case) that keeps feet stable and comfortable. The adjustable straps are made with full-grain leather that comes in white or black. Find these in sizes 5-12. $149 at Kuru Amazon Recommended by podiatrist Dr. Jay Spector, the Gel-Kayano running shoes by Asics are designed specifically for individuals with flat feet or low arches by helping to transfer weight to the inner edge instead of the ball of the foot with each step. The midsole is made with shock-absorbing cushioning and the low-profile heel comfortably cradles the foot for added support. These are available in sizes 5-13, in three different widths and available in up to 26 different vibrant and neutral color combinations. $125+ at Amazon $125 at Zappos $126 at REI On Running Editor's pick: While these road-style running shoes weren't specifically mentioned by a podiatrist for alleviating plantar fasciitis symptoms, On Running's Cloudmonsters are a frequent and recognizable favorite on TikTok where both athletes and everyday people adore these highly responsive shoes that offer support all throughout the tip of the toe — a feature that one TikTok user with plantar fasciitis said separates the Cloudmonsters from other standard running shoes. The max cushioning sole offers a noticeable spring and rebound with each step, an impact-absorbing performance and a forward-rolling operation that takes pressure off the heel. Shop them in six colors and women's sizes 5-11, with half sizes included. $170 at On Running Vionic "I personally like Vionic shoes because they have a variety of dress shoes and flip-flop options with built-in arches," said podiatrist Dr. Holly Spohn-Gross. Based on Spohn-Gross's recommendation, we chose this pair of office-appropriate ballet flats featuring a contemporary square-toed silhouette and bow detailing. Made from either leather or suede, these flats have a removable microfiber-covered EVA orthotic insert that's firm, yet flexible, and designed to hug your arches and promote stability. You can find them in sizes 5-13 (half sizes included), three widths and nine colors. $140 at Zappos $140 at Vionic Hoka Dr. Jay Spector, an Atlanta-based podiatrist and 32-time marathon runner, previously recommended these everyday walking and running shoes by Hoka to HuffPost. The Bondi 9 promises an ultra-cushioned and "billowed" footbed with a neutral level of support for the arch. The shoes are available in tons of different vibrant and neutral combinations, in both regular and wide options in women's sizes 4-12 and men's sizes 7-13. Women's: $170 at Nordstrom Men's: $170 at Nordstrom Women's: $170 at Zappos Nike These familiar Pegasus Air sneakers by Nike came at the suggestion of Spector and are available in sizes 5 up to 16.5. They promise updated all-around padding, foam midsoles and an Air unit inside each heel for added comfort. These Y2K-throwback shoes can be found in five color combinations. $145 at Nike Amazon Spector also suggested New Balance's Fresh Foams, a neutral-cushioned running shoe that boasts a dual-layer midsole construction, top-bed foam cushioning as well as underfoot foam support. You can get these in up to 32 colors and in sizes 5-12 (half sizes included), and in two widths. $70 at Zappos Amazon Saucony's Ride running shoe, suggested by Spector, promises a plush and perfectly cushioned sole and a sock-like fit that keeps feet stable. The uppers are made from a breathable mesh and come in several different color combinations. Grab these in sizes 7-16, wide sizing included. $81 at Amazon $81 at Zappos Newer version: $140 at Saucony Amazon For an ultra-cushioned sneaker option, Spector mentioned Altra's Via Olympus shoes, which have a luxurious and bouncy midsole that's constructed of a lightweight, hyper-responsive foam. The shoe has also been designed with a rocking shape to impart the feeling of being propelled forward with each step while the balanced cushioning promotes better foot alignment. You can get these in six color combinations and sizes 6-11.5. $165+ at Amazon Amazon Per Spector's recommendation, these road running shoes by Brooks can help provide advanced foot support by reducing excess movement of the foot inside the shoe. Though supportive, these shoes also offer a soft and cushioned level of comfort and come in up to 24 colors. They are available in up to four width options and sizes 5-13. $140 at Amazon $140 at Zappos $140 at Brooks Oofos For feet that are flat or have low arches, Spohn-Gross suggests the footwear offerings from Oofos. These versatile clogs are constructed with a proprietary foam footbed that claims to absorb more impact and reduce joint stress more than traditional footwear made with foam materials. These shoes, which come in sizes 5-14, are machine washable and odor-resistant. Clogs: $80 at Oofos Slide: $70 at Amazon Viconic Another popular Vionic footwear option, these contoured flip-flop sandals have a shock-absorbing, flexible and medium-density midsole as well as a motion-control footbed with deep heel cups to help feet stay aligned and in their natural position. You can get these in six colors and sizes 5-13, each one finished with leather or cork trim (depending on the color you choose) and a comfortable, softly woven toe post and foam-lined strap. $95 at Vionic Zappos Dr. Chanel J. Perkins, a board-certified podiatrist in Texas, previously suggested this cushioned version of the Birkenstock classic, the Arizona sandal for those recovering from various foot conditions. (It may also be worth mentioning that Birkenstocks have helped heal my father's case of chronic plantar fasciitis.) Like many of the brand's footwear offerings these iconic sandals feature the signature Birkenstock contoured footbed, an anatomically designed insole that offers longitudinal arch support running along the sides of the footbed for greater stability. This is supplemented with transverse arch support, a contour that runs along the middle of the footbed to help promote better alignment and a deep and cradling heel cup keeps the heel's natural cushioning right under the heel bone to also help prevent potential pain. Find these in up to five colors, different type of leather uppers and women's sizing 4-12.5, with half sizes included. $150 at Zappos $150 at REI If You Have Plantar Fasciitis, These Men's Shoes Are Podiatrist-Recommended If You Deal With Plantar Fasciitis, Podiatrists Say These 7 Products Can Help Amazon Reviewers Love This $24 'Foot Stretcher' To Relieve All Kinds Of Pain
