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HIIT, or high-intensity interval training, is a great way to get in shape quickly.
But if you’re suffering from plantar fasciitis, you may need special shoes to help you stay safe and comfortable while you exercise.
Check out my list of the best HIIT shoes for plantar fasciitis, and find the perfect pair for your needs!
Table of Contents
17 Best Plantar Fasciitis Shoes for HIIT Workouts
Although these are not all HIIT-specific.
The shoes on this list do a great job of supporting the plantar fascia ligament during HIIT classes and other intense workouts.
1. New Balance 577 V4 Cross Trainers
Whether you’re tackling your daily commute or doing HIIT workouts, you need a good pair of shoes to get you through your day.
That’s why New Balance has designed these shoes with performance, comfort, and style in mind.
The leather upper is durable and the lightweight cushioned midsole ensures a comfortable ride.
The NB ultra-soft comfort insert provides additional support and the rubber outsole ensures traction.
Pros
- Comfortable for wide feet
- Low-moderate arch support for flat feet
- Most additional insole inserts will fit nicely
- Great padding and support for relieving plantar fasciitis
Cons
- Not the best breathability
- If you have high arches you might need to use a custom insole
Specs
- Materials: Leather, Rubber
- Machine washable
- Women’s
- Sizes: 5-12
- Lace-up
2. Inov-8 F-lite 235 V3 Running Shoes
These Inov-8 shoes are designed with META-FLEX technology for a natural, flexible fit.
They also feature a snug midfoot and wider toe box for a more stable feel.
ROPETEC protection keeps your feet safe during weight lifting, while the elastic mesh-lined uppers provide breathability and support.
Pros
- Breathable mesh to limit sweat build-up
- The wide-toe-box fits well for most narrow and wide feet alike
- Excellent stability for lateral movements
- Durable outsole with good traction
- Built-in support for low to average-height arches
- Dynamic Fascia Band for a natural feel
- Versatile for long-distance running or cross training
Cons
- Not enough support for high arches
Specs
- Materials: Rubber, Synthetic
- Lace-up
- Women’s
- Sizes: 5.5-11
3. ASICS Gel-Venture 7 (Best Running Shoes for Women)
ASICS’ Gel-Venture 7 are the perfect choice for women who want the best of both worlds when it comes to their footwear.
With a Rearfoot GEL cushioning system and an Ortholite X-40 Sockliner, these shoes provide incredible comfort even during long periods of wear.
Additionally, the EVA midsole ensures that each step is cushioned and supported, while the internal heel counter provides stability and structure.
But what makes these shoes really stand out is their trail-specific outsole – perfect for those who love to explore new terrain.
Pros
- Great shock absorption
- Provide support and comfort for plantar fasciitis and knee pain
- Rear counter to prevent heel strike
- Lightweight with good breathability
- The removable insole allows you to add a custom one
- Wide-width options are available
Cons
- If you have extra high arches these may not be good enough
- The cushion is a bit on the firm side
- The heel portion of the shoes wears down quickly
Specs
- Materials: Synthetic Leather, Mesh
- Lace-up
- Sizes: 5-12
- Women’s
4. New Balance Nergize V1 Sneaker (Best Cross Training Shoes for Women)
These stylish New Balance shoes are designed for optimal performance.
They feature a REVlite midsole for cushioning and support, and a contemporary bootie design for a comfortable, snug fit.
The NB Memory Sole Comfort Insert provides superior cushioning and support, while the lightweight upper ensures you won’t be weighed down during your workout.
So whether you’re hitting the gym or going for a run, the New Balance Nergize V1 Sneaker is perfect for any activity.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight
- Fit well for wide feet
- Easy on and off
- Provides enough support for low to moderate arches
- The memory soles work well for plantar fasciitis relief
Cons
- Sizes run small
- Arch support isn’t ideal for some users
Specs
- Material: Synthetic
- Lace-up
- Women’s
- Sizes: 5-12
5. Ryka Influence Cross-Trainer Shoes
These shoes are designed specifically for women, with an N-Gage energy-return foam that provides superior cushioning and support.
The breathable mesh upper keeps your feet cool and comfortable, while the padded heel and faux leather overlays add extra protection.
For stability and traction, the ergonomically-shaped rubber sole features pivot points that make it easy to move in all directions.
Pros
- Great arch support
- The narrow heel with a wide toe box offers a secure fit
- Responsive cushioning to absorb shock and retain the shoe’s durability
- Superb stability for your plantar fascia
- Work well for lateral support, strength training, and plyometric exercises
Cons
- The heel cushion isn’t great
- Lacks flexibility
Specs
- Materials: Fabric, Rubber
- Low-top shaft
- Lace-up
- Women’s
- Sizes: 5-11
6. Brooks Transcend 6 (Best Training Shoes)
The Brooks Transcend 6’s are the best training shoes for men on this list.
They have a plush interior liner and mesh upper with 3D Fit Print technology.
The Guide rail Support System provides optimum support and the OrthoLite sock liner ensures comfort all day long.
Pros
- Guide rail supports keep your foot stable to prevent knee pain
- Interior plush offers maximum cushioning
- Lightweight and versatile for cross-training activities
- Great shoes for Plantar Fasciitis relief
- Moderate arch support
- Takes almost no time to break them in
Cons
- Breathability isn’t the greatest in humid environments
Specs
- Machine washable
- Men’s
- Materials: Rubber, Canvas
- Sizes: 5.5-15
- Lace-up
7. New Balance Fresh Foam Roav V1 (Best Crossfit Shoes)
Looking for a pair of tough and versatile HIIT or CrossFit shoes?
The New Balance Fresh Foam Roav V1 has got you covered.
Its Fresh Foam midsole provides cushioned comfort, while the NDurance outsole enhances durability.
The bootie upper provides a snug fit, and the ultra heel ensures a secure grip.
Plus, with an 8 mm heel-to-toe drop, this shoe is built for performance.
Pros
- Ultra rear design hugs your foot to ease knee and heel pain
- Roomie toe box
- Lightweight and durable
- Easy on and off
- Moderate arch height
- Comfy enough for all-day use or HIIT/CrossFit workouts
Cons
- Not resistant to water
- May not work for chronic Plantar Fasciitis
- Might not fit properly for extra narrow feet
Specs
- Women’s
- Sizes: 5-12
- Lace-up
- Materials: Imported, Rubber Outsole
8. Puma Tazon 6 FM (Best Workout Shoes for Men)
For the man who loves to work out hard, the Puma Tazon 6 FM is the perfect choice for workout shoes.
With a mesh upper and synthetic leather overlays, this shoe is lightweight and comfortable, yet stylish enough to take you from the gym to the streets.
The full lace closure ensures a secure fit, while the midfoot saddle provides stability and support.
A breathable sock liner keeps your feet cool and dry, even during the most intense workouts.
Pros
- Abrasion Resistant
- Designed for narrow feet
- Good stability and support for plantar fasciitis
- Extremely versatile
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not good for wide feet or high arches
- Low breathability
Specs
- Men’s
- Materials: Rubber Outsole, Synthetic Leather
- Low-top
- Lace-up
- Sizes: 7-14
9. Brooks Ghost 14 Neutral Running Shoe
This shoe is certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic, so you can be confident that it will provide the support and comfort you need.
The neutral support and BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT cushioning make this shoe perfect for cross-trainers who are looking for a little extra support without compromising on comfort.
The segmented Crash Pad ensures that you get a smooth, comfortable ride every time.
While the 3D Fit Print upper technology provides a snug, comfortable fit.
Pros
- They sell both narrow and wide-foot options
- Great arch support for your feet and ankles
- Adequate cushioning
- Breathable
- Durable soles make for great versatility
- Great shock absorption
Cons
- The mesh lacks durability
Specs
- Women’s
- Sizes: 5-13
- Materials: Synthetic, Rubber
- Lace-up
10. Orthofeet Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
Orthofeet shoes are the #1 podiatrist-recommended footwear brand.
They feature premium orthotic insoles that provide arch support and multiple cushioning layers for ultimate comfort.
The lightweight ergonomic soles are designed to reduce foot fatigue, and the knit fabric uppers with extra foam padding provide a comfortable fit.
The wide toe box allows plenty of room for your toes to move and the removable insoles make it easy to customize the fit.
Pros
- The orthotic insoles alleviate lower back, knee, hip, and foot pain
- Narrow, wide, and extra-wide options are available
- Provides proper support for raised arches
- Flexible and comfortable
- The ergonomic soles enhance foot movement
- A decent cross-training shoe
Cons
- Not very resistant to water
Specs
- Free returns
- Women’s
- Sizes: 5-12
- Materials: Synthetic, Rubber
- Lace-up
11. ASICS Gel-Contend 5 (Best Running Shoes for Men)
These shoes are perfect for any cross-trainers out there, with a solid rubber outsole and Athletic mesh that provide durability and breathability.
The removable ortholite sock liner and rearfoot gel technology create a comfortable, cushioned feel for your feet.
While the amplifoam midsole ensures a responsive ride.
Pros
- They offer extra-wide options
- Provides enough arch support for moderate plantar fasciitis
- Great shock absorption to reduce joint impact
- Snug and comfy fit for agility workouts
- Lightweight, breathable, and durable
Cons
- Foam midsole tends to hold warmth
- Some users reported chafing on the back of their ankle
Specs
- Materials: Synthetic, Mesh, Rubber
- Lace-up
- Men’s
- Sizes: 7.5-14
12. Saucony Grid Excursion TR12 Cross Training Sneakers
Say hello to the Saucony cross-training sneakers.
This bad boy is built with a mesh upper and supportive overlays, making it light and breathable yet durable enough to take on the trails.
Plus, its trail-tested outsole with a triangular lug pattern provides superior traction and stability no matter where your workout takes you.
So whether you’re hitting the gym or the great outdoors, the Saucony Grid Excursion TR12 has got you covered.
Pros
- Durable and versatile
- Good for low to moderate arches
- Breathable and lightweight
- Provides enough support for long periods of wear
- The insoles are replaceable
- Supportive and comfortable relief for plantar fasciitis
Cons
- Not the best if you have high arches
- They run a bit narrow
Specs
- Machine washable
- Women’s
- Sizes: 6-11 (wide options available)
- Materials: Mesh, Rubber
- Lace-up
13. Gravity Defyer G-Defy (Best Walking Shoes)
The Gravity G-Defy’s unique design features patented VersoShock technology which absorbs shock from the ground up.
This provides all-day comfort whether you’re on your feet at work or working out.
Roomy toe boxes and a breathable mesh design keep your feet happy even when you’re walkin’ all day long.
While their Front Rolling Design makes them ideal for those who are prone to joint stress.
Plus, they come with a free pair of CorrectiveFit orthotic insoles – perfect for those with foot pain or plantar fasciitis.
Pros
- Amazing for reducing foot pain
- The CorrectiveFit insole helps to correct alignment
- Includes two insoles for both high and lower arches
- Relieves pressure on your joints
- Roomie toe box
- Great shock absorption
Cons
- Not water resistant
- The footbed has a curve that some users may not like
Specs
- Women’s
- Sizes: 6-11 (wide and X-wide available)
- Lace-up
- Materials: Synthetic, EVA
14. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Running Shoes
The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 is the perfect hybrid shoe for cross trainers who want to get the most out of their workouts.
With a breathable design, these shoes offer stellar comfort and increased technical content, making them ideal for both running and gym workouts.
Sleek and stylish, the Pegasus 36 will help you take your workout to the next level.
Pros
- Excellent support for high arches
- Super light and breathable
- No break-in period
- Very comfortable for longer durations of use
- Offer great joint and knee relief
Cons
- Not resistant to water
- Doesn’t hold snugly around the heel
- I wouldn’t recommend these if you have flat feet
Specs
- Material: Mesh
- Lace-up
- Women’s
- Sizes: 5-12 (Wide fits available)
15. Brooks Glycerin 19 Neutral Running Shoes
These shoes feature DNA Loft cushioning in the midsole for an ultra-plush feel, and a mesh upper with an internal stretch bootie for a sock-like fit.
Plus, the Plush Transition Zone ensures a smooth transition from heel to toe with every step.
Pros
- Custom orthotics will fit comfortably
- Great support for higher arches
- The heel cup holds snug
- Short laces for minimal drag and better security
- Quality traction
- Great cushioning without sacrificing stability
Cons
- If your arches are really high you may need a custom insert
- Sizes run small
Specs
- Materials: Rubber, Canvas
- Machine washable
- Men’s
- Sizes: 7-15 (Wide options available)
- Lace-up
16. Reebok Nano X1 (Best Unisex Cross Training Shoes)
These shoes are designed with a Flexweave knit upper that is both breathable and supportive.
And a Floatride Energy Foam that provides cushioning and energy return.
The shock-absorbing EVA foam midsole helps protect your feet from impact.
While the sleek design ensures you look good whether you’re at the gym or out for a run.
Pros
- Quality construction
- Sturdy and allow for some flex
- Great support for plantar fasciitis during weight training, CrossFit, or HIIT
- Fit comfortably for wide feet
- Adequate grip on the floor
Cons
- Not water resistant
- The heel lock tends to chafe the skin
- The laces are a little too long
Specs
- Materials: Foam, Rubber outsole
- Unisex
- Sizes: 5.5-16.5 for women, 4-15 for men
- Lace-up
17. TIOSEBON Casual Mesh Shoes (Best Budget Workout Shoes)
Looking for a casual, comfortable shoe to wear to the gym or on a walk?
Check out TIOSEBON’s Casual Mesh Shoes.
Made with a breathable fabric upper and high elastic MD outsole, these shoes will keep your feet comfortable during long workouts.
Plus, the classic pigskin insole and latex arch insert provide support and cushioning.
Pros
- Breathable and stretchy material for low abrasion
- Super lightweight
- Supports light arches
- There’s enough room for custom insoles
- Skid-resistant
- Stylish and comfortable
- Easy to put on and take off
Cons
- Not resistant to water
- The soles and arches generally begin to wear down after 4-5 months
- Not vegan-friendly (made with pigskin)
Specs
- Pull-on
- Women’s
- Material: Phylon, Pigskin
- Sizes: 5-13
Why HIIT Is Good for Your Plantar Fascia
HIIT is beneficial for your plantar fascia because it strengthens the muscles in your feet and calf, which support the ligaments and tendons in your feet.
In addition, HIIT workouts help improve blood circulation and keep the tissues surrounding your plantar fascia healthy.
All of these benefits help to reduce the risk of injury to your plantar fascia and improve its overall health.
Therefore, HIIT is a great option for plantar fasciitis.
If you have any specific questions or concerns about how a HIIT exercise routine may impact your foot health, speak with your doctor or a podiatrist.
Common HIIT Movements
Some common forms of training you might encounter during a HIIT workout include:
- Weight training exercises
- Box jumps
- Push-ups
- Rope climbs
- Jump ropes
- Burpees
- High knees/Running in place
Factors To Consider When Buying HIIT Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
When looking for shoes to do high-intensity interval training (HIIT) in, there are a few things you should keep in mind if you have plantar fasciitis.
The main thing to look for is shoes that are stable and provide good support.
You also want them to be flexible enough to allow you to move around freely, but not so flexible that they don’t offer any stability.
If you’re not sure what type of shoes to buy, it might be a good idea to consult with a podiatrist or other fitness expert.
Here are some specific factors to consider when shopping for HIIT shoes if you have plantar fasciitis:
Support
The most important factor to look for in HIIT shoes if you have plantar fasciitis is support.
You want a shoe that will keep your foot stable and provide good arch support.
This will help to prevent your foot from rolling inward (pronation) or outward (supination) when you land, which can aggravate plantar fasciitis.
Flexibility
While support is important, you also don’t want a shoe that is too stiff.
This can limit your range of motion and make it difficult to move around freely during your HIIT workout.
Instead, look for a shoe that is flexible enough to allow your foot to move naturally, but still provides good support.
Cushioning
Another important factor to consider is cushioning.
You want a shoe that will absorb some of the impacts when you land, to help reduce stress on your feet and lower the risk of injury.
However, you don’t want a shoe that is too cushioned, as this can make it difficult to balance and stay stable during your workout.
Fit
Of course, one of the most important factors to consider when buying any type of shoe is fit.
Make sure the shoe you choose is the right size and width for your foot, and that it provides a comfortable, secure fit.
It’s also a good idea to try on shoes before you buy them, to make sure they feel good and provide the support you need.
Price
Finally, keep in mind that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to get a good pair of HIIT shoes.
There are plenty of affordable options that will provide the support and features you need.
However, if you have plantar fasciitis, it’s worth investing in a higher-quality shoe that will provide better support and cushioning.
Benefits of Good HIIT Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
1. Increased comfort and support.
HIIT shoes typically have more cushioning and support than traditional sneakers, which can help reduce the risk of injuries.
2. Enhanced performance.
HIIT shoes often have less weight and better grip than other sneakers, which can help you move more quickly and easily during your workouts.
3. Increased safety.
Many HIIT shoes feature reflective materials that make you more visible in low-light conditions, which can help keep you safe while working out outdoors.
4. Better recovery.
The built-in arch support can help alleviate pain and discomfort from plantar fasciitis, a condition that often affects runners and other athletes.
Plantar Fasciitis FAQs
What Shoes Should I Avoid if I Have Plantar Fasciitis?
If you have plantar fasciitis, you should avoid shoes that are high-heeled or cause your feet to be in an unnatural position.
You should also avoid shoes that are too tight or too loose.
Instead, look for a pair that provides support and cushioning for your feet.
Additionally, make sure to stretch your feet and calves regularly to keep the plantar fascia from becoming tight and irritated.
Are Nike Metcon Good for Plantar Fasciitis?
The Nike Metcon’s are not specifically designed for people with plantar fasciitis, but they can still be a good option for those with the condition.
These lifting shoes have a stable fit and are made with react foam, which can help absorb some of the impacts from your workouts.
Can You Do CrossFit With Plantar Fasciitis?
Yes, you can do CrossFit with plantar fasciitis.
However, it is important to modify your workouts to avoid aggravating the condition.
You may need to reduce the intensity or duration of your workouts or take frequent breaks.
You should also ice your feet afterward to reduce inflammation.
Should I Stop Exercising if I Have Plantar Fasciitis?
If you have plantar fasciitis, it’s best to stop all strenuous exercises that may irritate the inflamed area until it heals.
However, there are still ways to stay active while managing your symptoms.
Speak to your doctor or physical therapist about alternate exercises and modifications that can help reduce the pain and swelling associated with plantar fasciitis.
Concluding the Best Workout Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
When it comes to finding the best shoes for HIIT workouts, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
The first is that you want a shoe that’s going to provide good support for your feet and ankles.
Second, the shoes should be comfortable enough that you can wear them through an entire workout without having any issues.
Finally, they should be lightweight and breathable so that your feet don’t get too sweaty during your session.
I’ve compiled this list of 17 of the best HIIT shoes for plantar fasciitis based on these factors, so you can find the perfect pair for your needs.
Sources:
https://www.upstep.com/a/answers/arch/do-high-arches-cause-plantar-fasciitis
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/plantar-fasciitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354851
