The best slippers for plantar fasciitis help ease some of the discomfort that comes with the conditionâwhich causes inflammation of a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot, according to the Mayo Clinic. I know about the pain firsthand since I suffer from plantar fasciitis. I tried a morning stretch routine and silicone foot roller, but ultimately, I experienced the most noticeable relief from switching my slippers to a pair of Crocs, per my podiatristâs recommendation.
Walking on a floor with bare feet is a big no-no since thereâs not enough natural cushioning on the foot to absorb the impact of the hard surface, which can lead to stabbing heel pain and arch stiffness. The best slippers for plantar fasciitis are contoured to shift the weight off your heel and provide arch support. Ahead, I researched the most soothing options out there, and for walking outside, we also found the best shoes for plantar fasciitis, too.
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Sizes: 6 to 12 | Materials: Mesh or fleece upper, rubber outsole, polyurethane insole | Heel drop: 10 mm | Width: Medium
While the Kuru Draft might be a bit of an investment for a pair of slippers, its pain-relieving and supportive technology makes it unlike any other slipper Iâve seen. The heel-hugging design protects the footâs delicate heel pad, while the built-in dual-density foam insole offers arch support and and shock absorption. The slip-on style is convenient for everyday wear and itâs available in two different uppersâmesh or fleeceâfor comfort, no matter the season. Multiple reviewers said these fit a little snug, so consider ordering a half-size up.
What the reviews say: âOnce they are broken in (took a couple of days) I am getting relief from plantar fasciitis in both feet. As a bonus, my minor knee pain has also shown some relief…I would wear them even if I didn’t have foot issues, super comfy (and cute).â âKuru
Sizes: 6.5 to 10 | Materials: Microterry upper, EVA, memory foam, rubber outsole | Heel drop: 1 inch | Width: Medium
For a budget pick, I like Isotonerâs Terry Hoodback Slippers since they provide necessary support and cozy, all-day comfort for $25. The cushy memory foam insole absorbs heel impact while the moisture-wicking microterry liner adds softness and warmth. Theyâre also conveniently machine-washable, which can be helpful for refreshing the memory foam. This slipper runs small, so I recommend sizing up.
What the reviews say: âI relax as soon as my feet slip into these slippers. They are the softest, most comfy ones I have ever had.â âAmazon
Crocs Classic Cozzzy Sandal
Sizes: 4 to 12 | Materials: Foam footbed, synthetic liner | Heel drop: Not listed | Width: Medium
Love or hate them, Crocsâs footwear is ultra supportive and great for those with plantar fasciitis, as I discovered. The Classic Cozzzy Sandal combines the comfort of a fuzzy slipper with the breathability of a sandal. Thanks to their trademark footbeds, these have the same lightweight flexibility of other Crocs styles. The elevated outsole adds a touch of style. These run large so you might want to consider sizing down.
What the reviews say: âSuper comfy, warm cozy, cushy love them. I wear them as slippers in the house. Great support for your feet on hardwood floors.â âCrocs
Sizes: 5 to 12 | Materials: Suede, faux fur | Heel drop: Not listed | Widths: Standard (B), Wide (D), Extra Wide (2E)
Orthofeet specializes in supportive footwear and the Charlotte Slippers come with orthotic insoles that help realign the foot and provide arch support. They also have a wide toe box for a little more breathing room and an adjustable strap that tightens across the foot for a customized fit. A faux fur lining takes the cozy level up a notch. Also great: Orthofeet offers a 60-day wear test period, after which you can return the slippers if youâre not satisfied. For a tighter fit, consider ordering a half-size down.
What the reviews say: âVery comfortable shoesâit didnât take any time at all to adjust. My heel pain has diminished almost 100%. After another week, I think all of the pain will be gone.â âOrthofeet
Sizes: 5 to 12 | Materials: Polyester terrycloth, TPR outsole, rubber sole | Heel drop: Not listed | Width: Medium-Wide
Orthotic inserts are a proven plantar fasciitis treatment due to their foot-realigning and supportive properties, and Vionicâs Gemma slippers come with a built-in orthotic sole along with podiatrist-designed contoured arch support. A deep heel cup further cushions the heel area, which can take a beating after being on your feet all day. These slippers carry the seal of the American Podiatric Medical Association for promoting foot health.
What the reviews say: âBought this slipper since I needed additional arch support after getting plantar fasciitis. Wonderfully soft and love that the top strap allows me to adjust the width of the slipper for a more comfortable fit.â âAmazon
Sizes: 7 to 15 | Materials: Polyester, silver fox velvet lining, EVA midsole, rubber sole | Heel drop: Not listed | Width: Wide
Ergofootâs Orthotic slippers aim to counteract plantar fasciitis heel pain. Orthotic details like an ergonomic footbed provides arch support, a deep heel cup protects and cushions the heel, and a flexible EVA midsole absorbs shock while reducing stress on the feet, ankles and knees when you walk. Note: the brand recommends wearing these for a few hours at first, and then gradually increasing the amount, to give your feet time to adjust to the therapeutic arch-stretching effect.
What the reviews say: âI highly recommend if youâve been having any problems such as flat feet, plantar fasciitis, or just prefer shoes around the house. This is the first morning in I donât know how long that I wasnât limping around during my morning routine because of pain in my feet.â âAmazon
Sizes: 5 to 16 | Materials: Foam | Heel drop: Not listed | Width: Medium
If youâre a fan of slides, Archies improves on the design so theyâre not so flat and potentially uncomfortable: The comfortable foam sandals have a built-in 2.2 centimeter arch support, and theyâre made from durable closed-cell foam, eliminating the risk of cracking while molding to your foot with wear. The arch support, plus an elevated heel, reduces pressure on the foot, ensuring all-day comfort.
What the reviews say: âI cannot tell you how much I love these shoes. I have no arch, and have bone spurs and achy old feet! I wear these shoes, morning, noon, and night. I am dreading winter when I have to put them away for the season. They are very supportive, and extremely comfortable.â âArchies
Sizes: 4 to 12 | Materials: EVA | Heel drop: 15-degree angle, toe-to-heel | Width: Medium
Cloudies provide extra cushioning on your soles with a puffy, 100% EVA design that surrounds the foot in ergonomic softness. The versatile styleâwhich comes in nine color optionsâslips on and can be worn with anything, anywhere. Theyâre waterproof with an anti-skid sole and the midsole has some slight give that reduces fatigue on your feet, ankles and knees. To maximize the pillow-like comfort, the brand recommends soaking them in water for 30 minutes to soften them up before your first wear.
What the reviews say: âThe thick sole really makes you feel like youâre walking on clouds and is so supportive (I have bad arches so thatâs important to me), while the strap on top is thick enough to hold your foot in while not making your foot sweat too much.â âAmazon
Oofos Women’s Oocoozie Low Shoe
Sizes: 5 to 12 | Materials: Textile upper and lining, foam midsole | Heel drop: 1.25 inches | Widths: Medium
Not only does this indoor-outdoor pair of Oofos shoes tout patented closed-cell foam technology that absorbs 37% more impact than traditional foam, itâs also supremely comfortable with an easy slip-on stretchy upper and a cozy faux shearling lining. The footbed design provides necessary cushioning to relieve foot, ankle and back stress, plus the shoe is machine washable, which helps them stay fresh longer.
What the reviews say: âSome of the best shoes Iâve ever had. The fabric is super soft. The shoes are easy to get on and off, but the fabric does not stretch out because youâre slipping them off and on. They literally feel like youâre walking on a cloud.â âZappos
Sizes: 5 to 10.5 | Materials: Cork-latex footbed, latex sole, shearling lining, wool felt upper | Heel drop: Not listed | Widths: Narrow to Medium (A/B)
Birkenstock bring years of supportive footwear experience to the slipper space with their cork-soled, shearling-lined Zermatt. Itâs lightweight with some flexibility and the anatomically-shaped footbed cradles your arch and heel. Sustainability bonus: Birkenstock sells a variety of insoles separately, so you can easily replace the cork footbed when it wears out. Multiple reviewers commented on the narrow width, so size up accordingly.
What the reviews say: âBest shoes-slippers. Iâve worn them daily since getting them. Super comfortable, even with my plantar fasciitis.â âDickâs Sporting Goods
FitFlop Chrissie Shearling Slipper
Sizes: 5 to 11 | Materials: Suede upper, shearling lining and footbed, EVA outsole | Heel drop: Not listed | Widths: Medium
Donât let the minimal profile of FitFlopâs Chrissie Shearling Slippers fool you; they offer ergonomic foot support, high-rebound air-foam cushioning and a cozy shearling lining. The anatomically-shaped footbeds mimic the curves of the foot, adding support and stability. Plus, these slippers are ultra-lightweight and flexible, perfect for packing into a suitcase or overnight bag.
What the reviews say: âThe Fit Flop range of shoes have changed my life and saved my feet. A friend recommended them for plantar fasciitis and they have helped so much. I am slowly buying more from their range to replace old unsuitable shoes etc. These slippers are so comfortable.â âFitFlop
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
To find the best slippers for plantar fasciitis, the Forbes Vetted team researched the top footwear brands, considering factors such as the overall support, comfort, quality and orthopedic capabilities. We also considered a range of styles, sizes and fits and price points, as well shipping and return policies and other services that guarantee an excellent shopping experience.
At Forbes Vetted, we have published numerous articles on supportive footwear, including guides to the best walking shoes and the most comfortable sneakers for women. The author of this piece, Becky Eaton, suffers from plantar fasciitis herself and drew on her firsthand experience to select the most supportive and comfortable options. Additionally, our writers and contributors regularly interview experts to get their insights and advice on footwear: Weâve rigorously tested everything from the best slippers to the most comfortable flats, and our expertise also extends to menâs footwear, with guides to the best walking shoes for men and most comfortable dress shoes.
Iâm a contributing writer covering womenâs and menâs fashion and accessories at Forbes Vetted. Iâve worked in media for 20 years, art directing and designing fashion, beauty, health and tech content for a variety of magazines, websites and brands. Prior to this, I studied magazine journalism at the University of Missouri. When Iâm not researching fashion, youâll find me doing freelance projects, exploring textile and interior design, and rollerskating.