We Tested Over 50 Podiatrist-Recommended Shoes for Heel Pain — These 10 Were Our Favorites

If you have heel pain, you know that cushioned shoes can be a lifesaver, absorbing impact and reducing pressure on the heel. The Hoka Bondi 9 claimed the title of best for cushioning due to its unmatched plush underfoot experience, which lends itself well to long-distance walking and running. Out of all the highly cushioned shoes we tested, the Bondi 9 provided the most support to help prevent heel pain while still maintaining enough versatility for everyday use.

Tester Mary Sauer noted a “cloudlike feel with each step,” thanks to the thick midsole and impact-absorbing construction. The exaggerated lift of the sole adds approximately one inch of height, which Sauer admits “was a little word to adjust to at first.” However, we did notice that this extra height provided an advantage for shock absorption and comfort during extended wear.

We also found the Hoka Bondi 9 offered excellent relief for foot pain and localized heel discomfort. We appreciated how the shoe easily accommodated custom orthotics (after removing the sock liner), making it a versatile option for those who need additional support. The mesh and cotton upper provide adequate breathability, making these comfortable to wear on hot days or during longer runs.

The shoes took about two days to fully break in, but this short adjustment period was well worth the long-term benefits of wearing an cushioned shoe. Despite the premium price, we appreciated that they were available in regular, wide, and extra-wide sizes, and that Hoka offers extended sizing options. We feel that these are a worthwhile investment for anyone dealing with foot or heel pain, especially those who regularly walk or run longer distances.

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 earned our top recommendation for overpronation by providing exceptional stability without sacrificing comfort or natural movement. Among all the shoes we tested, the Adrenaline GTS 23 provided the most balanced approach for overpronation while remaining comfortable and supportive enough for those of us with heel pain. Tester Brittany Vargas says she “wore them for a run right away and had no discomfort, rubbing, or pain.”

We were particularly impressed by the innovative GuideRails support system that sets this shoe apart from traditional models. The supportive guide rails provide excellent lateral support during fitness activities, which is especially helpful for those with flat feet. This design element allows for a natural gait cycle while minimizing excessive lateral movement during activities like walking and running. Vargas says that she wore the GTS 23s “on hour-long runs as well as for days spent hiking or walking,” and they performed well with both activities. “My knees normally get a twinge in them when running, and these prevented that.”

The shoes’ breathable mesh uppers offered flexibility in key pressure point areas, which we found particularly helpful when wearing these for longer walks or runs. We appreciated the spacious fit, which can easily accommodate custom orthotics without sacrificing comfort for those who don’t require them. This shoe is suitable for a wide range of foot types and support needs, including those who have heel pain or plantar fasciitis.

While testing the shoes during various activities, we found them to be exceptionally comfortable for extended periods of time. The cushioning provided excellent impact absorption, though we did note mild heel discomfort on the first day of testing. This minor issue was resolved by the second day of use as the shoes molded to the shape of the foot. We were also impressed by how well these shoes fit wider feet — neither too tight nor too loose — allowing the foot to stay in place while walking.

Despite its premium price, the durability we observed during testing, combined with the extensive color and size options available, makes the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 an excellent investment for those seeking reliable stability footwear for frequent walking, fitness activities, and everyday use.

We found the patented KURUSOLE technology particularly effective for relieving heel pain. Unlike conventional flat-bottomed shoes, this innovative design hugs the heel and flexes with every step, ensuring feet remain in the optimal position to prevent injury and relieve foot pain. This specialized heel-cradling design effectively stabilizes the rear foot while allowing natural cushioning to work as intended. During testing, the insole truly impressed us with its adaptive properties. Made from dual-density polyurethane foam, it uses body heat to mold to individual foot shapes over time, creating a semi-custom fit that is unique to each wearer. Tester Emily Hirsch, MS, RD, LDN, says, “The materials conformed well to my feet, allowing for natural movement without restriction.” This personalized approach supported arches perfectly and distributed weight more evenly across the foot, which reduces strain on the plantar fascia.

One of the most surprising aspects of the KURU FLEX Via was the immediate comfort right out of the box, requiring no break-in period whatsoever. While the shoes continued to improve in comfort as they molded to our feet, they were immediately wearable for extended periods of time. “The support is great, especially in the arch and heel, which helps reduce foot fatigue for someone like me who has high arches,” says Hirsch. However, it’s worth noting that the FLEX Via is best suited for activities such as walking and are not appropriate for longer runs or high-impact activities.

The minimalist design may be a turnoff for some people, but with exceptional lightweight construction, they are ideal for all-day wear without foot fatigue. Although priced slightly higher than some other lifestyle shoes, we found that the relief from heel pain and exceptional arch support made the FLEX Via a solid choice for those with high arches seeking comfortable shoes to wear all day.

If you work a job where being on your feet is unavoidable, then you’re all too familiar with the aches and pains that can accompany a long day of standing. The On Cloudflyer 4 is our favorite for days when you can’t stay off your feet, delivering exceptional comfort and support that remains consistent throughout hours of wear. Among all the shoes we evaluated, the Cloudflyer 4 provides an effective combination of cushioning, stability, and fatigue reduction.

We were particularly impressed by the innovative CloudTec cushioning system that significantly reduced heel pain during all-day wear tests. The unique cloud elements along the outsole compress individually with each step, providing targeted impact absorption precisely where needed. We found that this adaptive cushioning proved especially beneficial for those with existing heel pain, as it effectively minimized pressure on sensitive areas while maintaining proper foot alignment.

The On Cloudflyer 4’s zero-gravity foam midsole creates a responsive foundation that offers support without bottoming out, even after more than eight hours of continuous standing. The slightly firmer medial (arch) side provided stability that prevented overpronation without feeling intrusive or restrictive. This design element helps maintain proper foot position throughout the day, reducing strain on the arches that often contribute to heel pain.

We did note a brief break-in period of one to two days before the shoes reached their full comfort potential, but this process resulted in a more personalized fit that enhanced comfort overall. The On Cloudflyer 4’s blend of cushioning technology, support features, and durable construction easily secured its position as a top pick for professionals and others who spend a lot of time on their feet.

It’s important to note that the Cloudflyer 4 is an older model of this shoe and may not be as widely available as it is phased out.

A responsive shoe — one that provides a springy or bouncy feel that can contribute to a more efficient stride — can be useful if you frequently experience heel pain. The same materials that give the shoe its springy feel can also provide padding where your feet need it the most. The trick is to find a shoe that balances comfort with support. Among the shoes we tested for heel pain, the NOVABLAST 4 provided the most effective bounce and support while maintaining comfort with extended wear.

We were particularly impressed by the cushioning system, which is made with approximately 20 percent bio-based content (materials derived from renewable resources), providing cloudlike comfort and absorbing impact that could aggravate heel pain. The substantial cushioning effectively diffused pressure that would otherwise concentrate in the heel area, providing comfort even during extended standing. Our tester Raki Swanson was overall impressed with the comfort, saying, “They felt like I was standing on a cloud, they were so comfortable.” This protective cushioning proved especially beneficial during longer wear sessions, as the high-quality foam maintained its responsiveness without compressing or bottoming out.

The NOVABLAST 4’s unique trampoline-inspired outsole design delivered on its promise of responsive bounceback. “From the first moment of walking more than a few feet — wow! — I felt like I was bouncing!” Swanson says. This dynamic energy return promoted a more efficient gait, which naturally reduced heel pressure over time, providing significant relief for those with heel sensitivity.

We found these shoes to be particularly useful for individuals with high arches, with excellent support that prevented arch and heel soreness even after standing for more than two hours at a hockey game or walking long distances. We did experience mild outer-foot discomfort during the first wear, but after a short break-in period, this decreased as the shoe molded to our feet. Although it does not offer wide width options, we found that the standard width can comfortably accommodate a wider foot, eliminating the need to size up.

The extensive color options and comfort during walking and running make the ASICS NOVABLAST 4 a great choice for those needing a responsive shoe that lets you hit your stride while reducing heel pain.

The Brooks Ghost 15s earned our top recommendation for certified diabetic support because they are Medicare-approved for people with diabetic needs. They provide the perfect balance of stability, protection, and comfort that wearers with diabetes require. Among all the shoes we tested for heel pain, the Ghost 15s provided the most comprehensive solution for those seeking a therapeutic footwear option without compromising style or performance.

We were impressed by the stability that Brooks is known for as well as the secure fit that kept our feet properly aligned in the shoe. This is especially important for users with neuropathy or heel pain because you don’t want pressure areas to develop from your feet sliding around while you’re walking. The firm cushioning, while requiring some adjustment for those of us used to squishier shoes, provided consistent support that prevented excessive movement. Tester Raki Swanson stated, “There was no gripping on the ankles, and my arches felt very secure.” The extra padding in the heel created excellent pressure distribution, preventing pressure points that can trigger discomfort.

The Ghost 15’s certification as a PDAC A5500 diabetic shoe makes it eligible for Medicare reimbursement, which is particularly helpful for those covered under Medicare and who have received clinical approval.

While initially quite firm, we found the cushioning began to adapt after each wear. We did note that while the shoes provided strong arch support, this caused some temporary soreness during extended periods of standing. However, the soreness subsided after a week of wear. The toe box was slightly narrower than expected, making the wide option a necessary choice for people who typically wear standard widths. Despite the initial snugness, the shoes began to adapt to our feet without causing pressure points or blisters, thanks to the well-cushioned heel and ankle collar.

For diabetic users or anyone seeking Medicare-approved footwear that prioritizes stability and effectively relieves heel pressure, the Ghost 15s are a great choice for casual errands, walking, and shorter exercise sessions.

The ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31 claimed our top spot for cloudlike comfort by delivering a cushioning experience that made each step feel luxuriously supported. Among all the shoes, the GEL-KAYANO 31 provided our favorite combination of plush comfort and support for a variety of different activities, minus the heel pain.

The GEL-KAYANO 31 incorporates a gel at the heel of the shoe that excels at absorbing impact that can trigger heel pain. The thicker sole provided separation between the foot and the ground, which we found particularly helpful in minimizing pressure on sensitive heels while walking outdoors. We also appreciated how this design element distributed weight more evenly across the foot, which made the GEL-KAYANO 31 stand out as an exceptional option for long-term comfort.

The GEL-KAYANO 31 also had plenty of practical features, such as a heel pull tab. Tester Mary Sauer liked them for travel, noting that they were “easy to slip on after going through TSA.” We also liked that the GEL-KAYANO 31s are constructed with breathable mesh and reflective details, making them a great choice for outdoor running.

While we noted that the heel width could be slightly more accommodating for custom orthotics (even after removing the sock liner) and that a break-in period was required to eliminate some initial issues, these minor concerns didn’t detract from the cushioning benefits. The higher price may be a deterrent for some people, but for anyone seeking cloudlike comfort and heel pain relief, the ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31s are a great choice.

The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 25 performed best in our tests for long-distance walking, delivering sustained comfort and support that remained consistent even after many miles. Among the shoes we tried, the GEL-NIMBUS 25 stood out for its excellent combination of cushioning, durability, and heel protection.

We were immediately impressed by the soft, cushioned soles, which tester Julia Childs Heyl noted were “springy and very supportive.” This plush cushioning system effectively absorbs impact, especially during outdoor walks. For those with heel sensitivity or conditions like plantar fasciitis, this shock absorption made a significant difference in comfort, providing reliable heel protection mile after mile.

The lightweight construction of the GEL-NIMBUS 25s was particularly valuable during longer walks, preventing the foot fatigue that often occurs with heavier footwear. Despite its lightweight design, the shoes maintained impressive stability and structure, supporting our feet properly throughout various terrains and walking surfaces. We also liked how the responsive cushioning prevented heel discomfort after distances of more than four miles.

While we initially noticed some rubbing at the heel collar near the Achilles tendon during longer walks, this issue improved after a brief break-in period of just a few days. The breathable mesh upper strikes a balance between airflow and durability, preventing the overheating that can occur during longer activities.

For those dealing with heel pain who want to prioritize lightweight cushioning and reliable support for extended walks, the GEL-NIMBUS 25 is a great choice. Its versatility, suitable for everything from fitness walks to all-day amusement park trips, makes them an excellent investment for those with heel sensitivity.

The Brooks Ghost 16 secured our top recommendation for ankle stability by providing top-notch security and support that maintains proper foot alignment during dynamic activities. Tester Tori Martinet, MS, RD, was particularly impressed by how securely these shoes locked the feet and ankles into place, noting that “they are definitely lightweight, and my foot felt very stable and secure, if a little snug,” creating a stable platform that helped prevent excess motion that could aggravate heel pain. We noted that our feet and ankles always felt stable and secure, even when navigating uneven terrain.

The Ghost 16’s lightweight construction allowed for nimble movement without the clunky feel often associated with supportive footwear. We appreciated how the shoes maintained their structure without stretching out over time, providing consistent support. This structural integrity is particularly important for heel pain sufferers, as shoes that wear out quickly can contribute to increased heel pain due to uneven support.

The firm cushioning, while requiring some adjustment for those accustomed to softer shoes, provided a stable foundation that didn’t compress unevenly. This steady support helped distribute pressure more evenly across the foot, rather than allowing it to concentrate in the heel. While initially offering less arch support than we anticipated, we found that after a few wears, the shoes molded well to our feet.

For those who want to prioritize ankle stability while managing heel pain, the Ghost 16 is a supportive and environmentally conscious choice. As a bonus, they are made from recyclable materials and are labeled as carbon neutral.

The Hoka Challenger 7s were our favorite for lightweight shoes (only 7.3 ounces) due to their plush comfort without excessive bulk. We were amazed at how the shoe can provide maximum impact protection while feeling almost weightless on the foot, which can be hard to find with some other makes and models.

The cushioning, which effectively protects the knees and other joints as the foot makes impact with the ground, also makes these shoes quite comfortable. We found them suitable for wearing over longer periods, and the comfort is what sets the Hoka Challenger 7s apart from the rest in a crowded market.

We were also impressed by this shoe’s versatility across seasons and terrains. The high-traction soles prevent slipping on different surfaces, making the shoe appropriate for all seasons. Because it features a lightweight, breathable mesh, it is ideal for keeping your feet cool in hot weather but can also be worn with heavier socks for colder conditions. The thick sole keeps the feet protected from the ground, whether you’re running on a track or a dirt trail.

The Challenger 7s required no break-in period and were comfortable right out of the box for both long runs and all-day wear. We were able to run in them immediately without discomfort, using them successfully for hour-long runs and full days of errands. Tester Brittany Vargas notes that “they’d also be great for a long day at an amusement park,” being “light and cute enough” for days when you’re constantly on your feet (but don’t want your shoes to look overly orthopedic).

While the Challenger 7 does come at a premium price compared to some other models we tested, these shoes felt well-built and durable. We did note that the Challenger 7s offer a slightly less supportive structure, which may be an issue for severe overpronators. However, this may only be an issue during extended wear, and we found that swapping out the insoles helped remedy this problem.