Today, we’re going to be reviewing 16 best New Balance shoes for Plantar Fasciitis for men and women.
If you’re sleeping on them, you shouldn’t be because New Balance are creating some incredible sneakers that are actually selling out really quickly.
Not that that’s an indicator of quality or how good a sneaker actually is, but it really just goes to show you that people are really starting to look at New Balance again as one of the top brands.
Before we dive into it, we’ve reviewed other great running shoes for Plantar Fasciitis including Asics, Brooks, Saucony, and many other brands.
And for those who can’t live without sandals in summer, we’ve reviewed some sandals that proved helpful for Plantar Fasciitis.
Without further ado, let’s get right into it…
16 Best New Balance Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
Best New Balance Walking Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
New Balance 928v3
Consistency, quality, and support are signature features of the well-loved New Balance 928 v3 walking shoe.
What we have here is a shoe that is made with a smooth leather upper. It features a lace-up closure so that way you can get the best adjusted fit.
We do have a padded tongue and collar to give you more support on the ankles as well. While the interior has this amazingly soft lining that is made of fabric, it’s going to feel really great against your foot.
Not only that but it’s treated with anti-microbial properties to really give your foot a healthy environment. And the shoe also includes a removable footbed.
Here are the top three pieces of technology that contribute to the 928’s comfort.
Walking Strike Path. This unique tread pattern is specifically designed to help guide your foot into natural motion.
Rollbar Technology. The Rollbar technology stabilizes rear-foot movement and helps keep the walking motion steady and consistent.
Abzorb Technology. The Abzorb insert in the midfoot provides extra cushioning that’s plush but never unstable.
Everything sits on top of a durable Walking Strike Path rubber outsole.
Make sure you read this nice comparison of the New Balance 982v3 and the Brooks Addiction Walker.
Pros
- Ample arch support & ankle support
- Ample room in the toe area
- Lasting comfort through the sole unit
- Alleviates foot discomfort
- Provides sufficient platform stability
- Accommodates orthotics inserts
- Lightweight
- Different widths available
- Leather version keeps its shape longer
Cons
- Short tongue
- White colorway screams “tourist!” (haha)
New Balance 927
If you’re planning for an upcoming vacation, you know you’ll be supposed to walk for long periods of time.
Recommended by most podiatrists, the 927 is a comfortable shoe with great arch support. This makes walking and prolonged standing even on concrete much more comfortable for people who suffer from heel pain caused by Plantar Fasciitis.
The 927 is in the walking category and it’s one of the most recommended styles in the medical industry.
It has a nice wide toe box and comes in multiple widths. So if you have a wider foot and really need something to accommodate your orthotic, the 927 is fantastic for that.
It also has a deep heel cup for stability and the Rollbar TPU medial and lateral posting. The Rollbar is a graphite feature built in the heel designed to minimize rearfoot movement.
This means it’s going to keep your feet aligned so they don’t pronate or supinate for a really nice motion from heel to toe.
Adding to that, stability is even more enhanced with the TS-2 posting that provides the ultimate in motion control.
The shoe also features a rocker outsole with NB Walking Strike Path which is going to facilitate the transition for you and correct your gait when you walk.
So, the people who have Plantar Fasciitis, Arthritis, Achilles Tendonitis, or any kind of sensitivity in their feet are going to find the 927 a really nice addition to their shoe arsenal.
Related: New Balance Leadville 1210v2 Review
Pros
- Reasonably priced motion stabilizer-type shoe
- Great for general walking, gym, work, and everyday use
- Top-notch long-lasting comfort & support
- Has a wider toebox & a narrower heel
- No complaints about durability
- No heel slippage
- Quality materials & construction
- Accommodates orthotics comfortably
- Available in a variety of wide widths & sizes
Cons
- A bit heavy (expected with such solid inserts)
- Runs a bit warm
New Balance 990v5
The 990 is by far one of the best New Balance shoes for Plantar Fasciitis you can possibly buy. Extremely comfortable, the 990v5 provides all the support, cushion, and stability you need.
Its ample support and stability will bring your foot back to level allowing you to run or walk as long as you want without taking all the beating from the harmful shock your foot is subject to.
Manufactured in the United States, the 990v5 is primarily handmade and made of really nice premium materials.
The New Balance 990 is one of New Balance’s flagship lines and it makes sense why this shoe is so popular. It’s incredibly comfortable, it looks great, and the quality of this sneaker is excellent.
The 990v5 is truly made for everyone. In fact, it has been worn by everyone from supermodels in London to dads in Ohio since it launched in 1982, which makes it a versatile shoe.
Pros
- Best-in-class stability, comfort, fit, and quality
- Instant supportive step-in comfort for all-day wear
- Great arch support
- Roomy toebox yet fits great
- Good traction for different daily activities
- Great for custom orthotics
Cons
- A bit heavy
- Expensive (but worth it)
Upper
You’ve got this really nice suede mudguard. For a mass-produced sneaker, the suede material that they used is actually pretty solid and that brings me to another point that I really like about this shoe…
Moving up, you get to this really nice premium-feeling mesh material on the toe box. Overlapping the mesh, you’ve got some perforated leather panels and in the center of the toe, you actually have a small 3M accent.
As you continue up on the shoe, you get to more of that suede paneling that actually houses the lace punch-outs.
Just beneath the laces, you’ve got a mesh tongue with Made In The United States tag in the center.
The upper of this shoe is incredibly comfortable. It’s nicely padded and it feels like your foot is surrounded by pillows.
One of the standout features of the 990v5 that definitely contributes to the comfort of the shoe is the dual-density foam collar.
Moving even farther back in the shoe, you get to the semi-translucent great TPU panel which is actually new for the v5. The v4 did not have that feature.
In the center of the heel, you’ve got a 3M accent with the Roman numeral V because this is the 990V5. Just below that, you’ve got this plastic heel counter with the New Balance logo.
The inside has a sock liner which is really nicely padded as well.
Size & Fit
The New Balance 990v5 definitely fits true to size. But one of the best parts about this sneaker is how many sizing options you have.
Not only do you have sizes 7 through size 16, but you also have 6 different width options. You have extra narrow, narrow, standard, wide, extra-wide, and extra extra-wide.
That’s six width options for every size available, which is crazy.
Midsole
The midsole actually has white foam in the forefoot and as you move back on the sneaker, you get to what New Balance calls the ENCAP midsole technology, which provides durability and support.
Outsole
The bottom has a durable rubber outsole.
The New Balance 990V5 is the perfect everyday shoe for everyone. It’s incredibly comfortable around your foot and also underfoot and it’s really well made.
Not only that but it’s also a really clean-looking sneaker.
Overall, whether for everyday wear, work, walking, or running, the 990v5 is one of those shoes recommended by most Orthopedic surgeons.
People who have walked or run in the 990 swear by its efficiency and a great number of them say this shoe is the only one that really cured their Plantar Fasciitis.
Some people say the 990 also cured their bad knees, bad ankles, back pain, heel spurs, shin splints, and calf problems.
All in all, the 990 is a great supportive and stable shoe that will certainly let you stay on your feet all day without all the aches and pains you might have been dealing with.
History of New Balance 990 Series
The New Balance 99 x-series is pretty well-known. Most people are familiar with the 997, 998, 999, and even the 996, which are all great shoes.
If you shop New Balances made in the USA brand, then you’re definitely going to see a lot of good quality shoes of any of those models I just mentioned.
The same goes for the 990 which is kind of the originator of the whole series.
990V1
The 990v1 apparently first dropped in 1982 (1 year older than me). It was the first retail sports sneaker that was $100. That was pretty much a landmark release and $100 back in 82 was a lot bigger of a deal than $100 today.
New Balance thought that they were only going to sell a few 990s, but instead, they wound up selling 10 times what they thought initially. The 990v1 is the easiest to identify because it’s the most retro-looking of any of the other 990 versions.
990V2
Moving on to the V2, one of the prime differences you can see right away is that they bulked up the midsole significantly, or at least the look of the midsole is a lot bulkier.
The toe box is starting to take shape with the extra little panels of suede that have little strips that go up on either side of the toe box.
So that’s really how you can tell the V2 apart from the V3 or the V4 because it has the bulkiest midsole and it still has sort of a retro look to it though.
990V3
Moving on to the 990V3, New Balance slimmed down the midsole a bit and they just kind of changed how it looks, but it’s definitely a lot smaller and less bulky than the V2.
This is the version where New Balance really started to take the ‘dad shoe’ vibe and really make the 990 a dad shoe, at least from today’s perspective.
Last, the 990v4 basically looks very similar to the V3. They just changed the paneling ever so slightly as a replacement of the mesh and the suede.
They’ve also changed the midsole a little bit. Overall, New Balance has added some newer technologies and just a little bit better balancing.
The 990 has always been sort of a mix between support and cushion. So New Balance tweaked the ratios of different materials they’re using in the midsole and they’re constantly playing with that making the 990v4 the latest optimized version.
990V4
This iconic sneaker has never stopped feeling fresh. It is built to give you a nice energized cushion with every single step that you take while you’re out there on the road.
Here are the top three reasons the New Balance 990v4 is a massive fan favorite.
Classic Design
The upper is made of a breathable mesh with pigskin leather layers on top of that for amazing durability. The upper has that athletic appeal and a classic quality that’s truly enduring. It has a nice sub closure in the front to lock your foot in.
The inside features a really soft and breathable lining with some nice padding around the sides. The footbed is designed to keep your feet feel great on the interior.
Stable Cushioning
The ENCAP midsole and blown rubber outsole provide stable cushioning that’s as durable as it is reliable. The V4 has a 12mm heel-to-toe differential.
The midsole features EVA that is incredibly lightweight and shock-absorbing to give you amazing energy return with every stride.
Related: Best Energy Return Running Shoes
Made In The USA
The 990v4s are made in the USA and you can wear them proudly.
New Balance 411
Get moving in a supportive and comfortable shoe with the New Balance 411 and don’t let your Plantar Fasciitis or any heel pain get in your way.
The NB 411 has a really sturdy construction. It will provide amazing comfort no matter what type of conditions you’re walking and your feet will feel great.
It features a sturdy man-made leather upper with the logo detail for added appeal and synthetic overlays for durability. The inside features a fabric shoe lining with a foam cushioned footbed for added comfort and great moisture-wicking.
The lace-up system gives you a secure fit with a padded collar and tongue for additional support. You have perforations throughout the upper giving you some added breathability.
The 411 also features an EVA midsole that’s going to help keep it super-lightweight but always provide that comfort and shock absorption.
It all sits on a rubber outsole featuring the Walking Strike Path right in the middle that’s going to help guide your foot throughout the gait cycle keeping it feeling nice and steady while delivering great flexibility.
You can check the 411v2 here.
Pros
- Good for overweight walkers
- Very comfortable & supportive!
- Ample toebox room for toe splay (not sloppy)
- Offer good cushioning for heel striking
- Great arch support that is well positioned
- Rocker geometry helps propel you forward
- Lightweight & springy
- Does great with orthotics
- Does not feel tight with socks
- Accommodates even narrow feet
Cons
- Break-in required
- Laces seem cheap (you need to replace them)
Dunham Winslow
Plantar Fasciitis needs as much support as possible, and New Balance is one of the few companies that have done a great job so far catering all widths and sizes.
The Winslow is made of really nice leather. There’s added cushioning all throughout the shoe while its removable footbed gives you a ton of support, cushioning, and comfort and it’s going to leave room for your orthotics.
The Winslow is a well-constructed shoe that provides incredible arch support, ankle support, and heel support. Its two hook-and-loop straps are there to make sure you have that customized fit and also spare the arthritis sufferers the trouble of bending over to tie their shoelaces.
There’s a Rollbar technology in the back which is going to make sure your feet stay nice and stable inside.
Its slip-resistant outsole has a really nice flat platform to give a ton of stability. You have Abzorb cushioning in the forefoot and in the back, and this is the same stuff New Balance uses in their athletic shoes to give you that performance and comfort you’re looking for.
All in all, the Winslow is supportive, comfortable, lightweight, durable, water-resistant, and easy to put on and off.
In short, the Winslow is a real winner with a perfect fit and great support for Plantar Fasciitis.
The Winslow is one of the best New Balance shoes for Plantar Fasciitis, back pain, knee pain, heel spurs, and swollen feet.
Pros
- Impressive arch support & sturdy construction
- Fits really wide feet well
- Could fit narrow feet as well
- Easy to put on and off thanks to the hook and loop
- Great with orthotics
- No slipping or sliding
- Great for heavy and large men
Cons
- Can dig into the area around ankles before they soften
- Hook and look strap might be short for people with high insteps
Dunham Windsor
Available in extended sizes and widths, Dunham is all about tradition. They’ve been around since 1885. Since partnering with New Balance, it’s become a tradition of comfort and fit.
The Windsor is a classic oxford that’s perfect for those hard-to-fit feet. It’s also waterproof to keep your feet nice and dry in case you get caught in one of those downpours.
The premium seam-sealed tumbled leathers and extra padding in the heel and forefoot surround the foot in soft supple comfort. The hidden Rollbar provides stability in the heel.
The nice removable footbed gives you even more added cushioning and support down there and leaves some room for your own orthotics. It has metal eyelets for easy lacing, generous padding all throughout, and really a smooth lining.
The midsole is very shock-absorbing with the built-in Rollbar technology on the heel to keep you nice and stable.
The bottom has a fiberglass piece to really give you the support you need. The outsole has a nice wide platform and it is made of Tru-Trak soft rubber that’s incredibly sticky.
The outsole also has two ABZORB cushioning areas, one in the heel and one in the forefoot. This is the same stuff New Balance uses in their athletic shoes to give you that performance and comfort you need.
From sizes from 8D to 18 6E, the Dunham nearly got every size covered.
Pros
- Looks & feels great right out of the box
- Supremely comfortable
- Fits square feet
- Has a ton of forefoot room for your feet to move & breathe
- Decent arch support
- Waterproof leathers
- Minimal break-in time
- Super high quality
- Really affordable
- Can be worn for job interviews or in a business casual environment
Cons
- A bit heavy
- Might squeak on some floors
Best New Balance Sneakers & Running Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo V5
The New Balance Vongo is a shoe that maybe hasn’t got quite as much love as it has deserved over the past couple of years.
It has gone through a lot over the past couple of years and it’s always been known as having this unique stability story. Now with version 5, we’ve got some pretty big changes and one being it has a very similar design aesthetic to the New Balance 1080.
Pros
- Fresh Foam cushioning feels like butter
- Incredibly comfortable, stable, & breathable
- Stretchy upper fits like a glove & provides excellent lockdown
- Great to walk or exercise in
- A lot of room for your toes to wiggle
- No heel slippage
Cons
- Ankle wall comes up very high (might irritate some)
1080 With Stability Features
The 1080 has been such a success story for New Balance. These max cushion running shoes have got a ton of new runners in it and it’s really progressive.
The cushioning, the underfoot feel, and just how good the 1080 looks and feels on the foot is something that consumers are constantly talking about.
The Success of the 1080 made New Balance think about integrating the features that have made this shoe great into the premium stability Vongo series.
So, New Balance really wanted to create this one-two punch with the 1080 being for neutral runners and then the Vongo allowing those consumers that need a little bit more stability to really benefit from all the things that are so great about the 1080.
When it comes to stability shoes, those traditional medial posts have been a staple for years.
But what is going to set the stability features apart in the Vongo V5?
How stable the Vongo is?
Is it going to be for moderate overpronators or severe overpronators?
Can a neutral runner use the Vongo?
Stability
The two major stability features that they’ve gone for is the Vongo is 5mm wider in the midfoot compared to the 1080. The other one is the integration of a really unique posting system in the midsole.
The way the new “medial posting” works is that we have two different hardnesses of EVA pellets that make up the midsole.
All of the white material on the sidewall and around the medial side is exactly the same Fresh Foam X that’s in the 1080. This foam is a 45 hardness.
And then in the speckled area, New Balance uses the second pellet and the second hardness of foam and interspersed those two things together to create the gradient stability that is so prevalent in the Vongo v5.
Essentially, you take that 45-hardness pellet and that 60-hardness pellet and you pour those two things into the mold. This creates this range that goes from 45 to 46 to 47 all the way towards the medial side where you get that full 60 hardness where that runner really needs it from a stability standpoint.
This is definitely a unique way of thinking about stability because it is really working in a way that is progressive and modern.
The New Balance Vongo v5 is going to sit in a sweet spot for those pronated runners. That kind of gradient stability is going to make it appeal to a really broad set of consumers that are looking for a little bit of safety, a little bit of security, and a little bit of confidence.
Upper Stability
The real benefit is that the Vongo 5 is, again, really similar to the 1080. The flexibility, the softness on the foot, and the really premium beautiful knit that exists in the 1080 product is what New Balance used on the Vongo as well.
New Balance then reinforced that with the embroidery structure through the saddle of the shoe. The embroidery on the lateral side is really nice and open and is a really nice design detail that sits around the logo.
On the medial side, there’s more embroidery. The space between this embroidery design is really closed up and the idea there is that you have a secondary technology that’s going to provide the right level of stability and the right level of lockdown in the midfoot.
All in all…
To be honest, I think stability shoes have been a little bit dull in the past couple of years.
There really hasn’t been that much innovation in this department. So, with a shoe like the Vongo v5 and especially taking a lot of those features of the 1080, I think we’ve got a winner.
The Vongo 5 is definitely a modern take on what stability looks like today. Again, whether you’re a moderate overpronator, a severe overpronator, or just maybe a neutral runner who is looking for a more stable option, I think the Vongo v5 is going to be a great option.
The New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v10 is not going to replace any of your fast day shoes. However, if you need that workhorse shoe that can long and provide that impact protection on the ball of the foot, it would be tough for me to suggest anything much better than this.
New Balance 860v11
The 860 has a 10-millimeter offset from the heel to the forefoot. The shoe has a good amount of cushioning under the foot and a stability post in there for your Plantar Fasciitis.
Again, the New Balance 860v11 is a great shoe for your everyday runner who needs a little bit of support for Plantar Fasciitis issues.
It’s going to be a workhorse so you’re going to be able to get 350 to 500 miles out of this thing and it’ll provide a little bit of stability if you do have lower arches or a little bit of overpronation going on.
Pros
- Great Fresh Foam X cushioning
- Provides a lot of comfort & stability underfoot
- Great arch support
- Well-fitting upper
- Great durability & traction
Cons
- Might feel tight at ball of foot for some
- Runs smaller
Midsole
New Balance did change the name of this shoe to the Fresh Foam 860v11 and that’s because they added some Fresh Foam in the midsole.
What’s cool is they added it as like a top layer on top of their traditional EVA. This is kind of good because it puts it right up against your foot so you’ll get a little bit of a softer feel in this shoe than you would compared to the previous versions.
The Fresh Foam X in the 860v11 actually has a good amount of rebound as well so it won’t feel like you’re running in a marshmallow.
Some other types of shoes can kind of feel like you’re running through peanut butter and it’s really hard to get through the midsole, but you won’t really feel that way with the 860v11.
The shoe does a good job of providing a little bit of return for you.
New Balance then added a little bit of a stability post on the medial side of the shoe, which makes it a great option for overpronation, lower arches, bad ankles…
This medial piece is a little bit of a firmer density, which is going to correct that overpronation and just guide you down the center of your foot a little bit easier than if you didn’t have that there.
The previous versions have had that harder foam sitting right up against the foot, but in this update, they added a little bit of a softer material over the top so it’s not nearly as aggressive as it used to be.
Upper
The New Balance 860 has a really nice engineered mesh upper that’s very accommodating in the forefoot. The upper fits a wide variety of feet because the engineered mesh does a good job of being flexible.
So, the upper fits right up against the foot pretty snug. However, if you have a wider foot, it’ll still give you that range. It’ll kind of flex and move with the foot really nicely up in the forefoot.
Gusseted Tongue
The tongue is gusseted, which means it wraps around the foot and kind of ties into the midsole for a nice midfoot wrap through there.
Because it’s attached, the tongue will feel nice and snug through the midfoot no matter how high your instep happens to be.
Heel Counter
The heel counter is one of the biggest changes from the previous version.
Before, the Ultra Heel kind of curled in and grabbed onto your Achilles. Now, they pinched it on the heel to prevent any slipping or any movement, and it kind of peels away from the Achilles so you won’t get any blisters or irritation back there.
Outsole
The outsole has a good amount of blown rubber throughout, which is going to add some durability and a little bit of softness under the foot.
There’s not a lot of exposed midsole on the 860 so you know it’s going to be a really durable outsole because you won’t scrape through the midsole very easily.
The 860 has got rid of some of the plastic stuff through the midfoot, which makes it a little bit more flexible and it just gives you a smoother ride from heel to toe.
This also makes the 860 feel a little bit faster and a little bit smoother of a ride compared to some of the other previous versions.
The 860 still has some stiffness and so if you’re someone who’s had some arthritis issues or someone who needs a little bit of rigidity up in the front of the shoe, this shoe will provide some of that but still provide a little bit of flexibility for those who want to get up and go, too.
Again, The New Balance 860v11 falls into the moderate stability category and is a solid workhorse shoe. It is going to a be great moderate stability shoe for the everyday run.
Related: New Balance 860 vs 880 – Two Amazing Shoes For Different Runners
New Balance 847v4
Looking more like a running shoe, the 847v4 is a walking shoe designed for people with Plantar Fasciitis who need a lot of support and motion control but don’t want something heavy or stuffy.
One great benefit to this shoe is whether your arch collapses and your feet roll inwards or whether you tend to roll outwards more, this is going to be a great shoe for you.
Pros
- Comfortable footbed
- Cushioned yet flexible
- Stability is excellent
- Helps relieve foot discomfort
- Fabulous roomy toebox offers ample space for toes and wide feet
- Delivers lots of shock absorption & bounce
- Comes in a range of widths & sizes
Cons
- A bit expensive
Upper
The upper has been streamlined and now these walking sneakers have a breathable mesh upper with minimal synthetic overlays, which makes the front of the shoe a lot more flexible and a lot more breathable.
The 847v4 is built on an SL-2 Last, which basically means it’s got a little bit a wider toe box and more of a narrow heel, which is also great for people who have swelling on their bunions.
Midsole
The 847v4 also has a Trufuse midsole featuring a blend of cushioning and compression foam. The shoe also has the New Balance Rollbar system that is designed to reduce rearfoot movement and enhance stability and support.
Inside
The Lightning Dry textile lining is on the inside to wick away moisture while the padding around the collar provides for comfort next to your skin.
The shoe also comes with a removable squishy footbed that has perforations throughout for added breathability.
Outsole
There’s a textured Ndurance outsole for maximum durability and traction. The Walking Strike Path on the outsole keeps your walking gait going straight with every step while offering a nice and smooth transition from the heel to the forefoot.
New Balance Fresh Foam Zante v4
The Zante has been known as one of New Balance’s most popular lightweight trainers. I was a big fan of the first two versions, but the 3rd version was slightly disappointing.
Pros
- Lightweight & softer than before
- Fits accurately
- Very versatile
- Rolls smoothly
- Available in optional widths
Cons
- A bit tight through the midfoot
- Not very durable
Upper
The upper uses an updated Jacquard mesh throughout the forefoot and a new HypoSkin that wraps around the midfoot for more support.
This mesh upper is really flexible and breathable, especially in the toe area. It’s not dramatically different, but it is noticeable. The upper feels like an overall improvement on the previous Zante v3’s no-sew one-piece upper.
There’s just enough padding in the heel and the tongue to keep the shoe comfortable but not too much padding to where it feels like there’s too much going on.
The fit is snug around the midfoot and opens up nicely around the toes. The laces stay in place and using that extra lace loop really secures the foot in well.
I feel that the open feel of the upper may not be stable enough for everyone, but I would say that most runners would be happy with it.
Midsole
The Fresh Foam is back as the midsole compound and has a slightly different look to it. The midsole has a new concave-convex pattern. This is supposed to make the shoe more stable near the heel but softer and more flexible near the forefoot.
In the previous model, the Fresh Foam felt a bit stale. It took a while to break the shoe in compared to typically how soft the versions 1 and 2 felt. But in version 4, I think New Balance got it right.
The midsole is not dramatically soft but it has that subtle sense of plushness while still being responsive, which is great for faster tempo training days or even going out for longer runs.
Outsole
The outsole uses a full-blown rubber compound. The outer layers of the rubber are a bit more rigid for added durability, but it is slightly softer near the inner layer to provide some added comfort.
The Zante v4 flexes well in the forefoot but keeps some stability near the heel. The traction is ok and it will be good on roads.
The Zante is a good overall lightweight trainer. If you’re looking for a shoe that can handle faster mileage or at least makes you feel like you’re going fast, the Zante is a solid option.
Fresh Foam isn’t known to be the longest-lasting material in the world, but you can get a few hundred miles out of this shoe for a fair price.
Last but not least, The Zante V4 stays on the VL-6 last with midsole heights of 16 inches in the heel and 10 in the forefoot. The runners also have the same amount of rubber on the outsole engineered in a way to allow them to move quickly.
New Balance 1260v7
The premium stability 1260 series continues in its 7th version to deliver the ultimate plush experience for Plantar Fasciitis sufferers. With the 1260V7, stability is still guaranteed mile after mile.
With an 8-millimeter heel-to-toe offset, the 1260 v7 offers plush cushioning for moderate to severe overpronators. With a completely revamped construction, this shoe should offer a more responsive ride than its previous version while still providing maximum support.
Pros
- Fabulous from the get-go
- Highly cushioned, comfortable, & stable out of the box
- Has a natural rolling toe-off
- Provides ample support through the arch area
- Has enough room for orthotics
- Comes in multiple widths
- Outsole is grippy
- Solid construction
Cons
- Pricey
Upper
Thanks to the new minimal seam upper design, unwanted hot spots and irritation should be limited for a more comfortable running experience.
The upper features a full-length engineered mesh which is really nice and breathable. The reason why I like this shoe is that it has a wider toe box and your toes have a little bit more room to spread out so you could really grip the ground when you are running.
The wide toe box is combined with the asymmetrical heel counter design that ensures rearfoot stability through its intuitive shape and smart design.
It really locks your heel in nice and tight preventing it from slipping out in and out of the shoe. So, you have a nice stable ride from the top of the shoe all the way to the bottom.
Midsole & Outsole
Moving on to the midsole, you have the full-length ABZORB midsole which goes around the entire shoe. It really gives you a lot of cushion from your heel all the way to your toe-off. It allows for safer strides slowing down negative forces that cause the feet to roll inward (overpronation).
The 1260v7 continues to provide ample cushioning while the addition of the Fuel Cell technology adds a more responsive ride and gives you that much more cushioning and shock absorption from your heel all the way to your midstance.
A redesigned outsole helps give the v7 a smoother transition without sacrificing durability or traction.
The 1260V7 delivers new ways of cushioning, new ways of stabilizing, and enhances the overall plush premium stability experience for the long run.
Last but not least, the 1260V7 is not only lighter in weight but more flexible than the competition without losing any torsional rigidity and support.
New Balance 940v4
Built with maximum support and cushion for Plantar Fasciitis, this performance-driven 940v4 is ideal for the overpronator looking for stability along with high energizing cushioning. The exceptional level of cushioning especially in the heel makes the 940 a great sneaker for heel striking runners.
The shoe’s stabilizing T-BEAM shank makes the 940v4 a must-have for moderate to severe overpronators.
Pros
- Fits great with good arch support
- Well-cushioned
- Really comfortable & responsive to walk in
- Toebox is spacious & breathable
- No swinging left and right while walking
- Very durable
- Comes in extra wide option
Cons
- Pricey
Upper
The 940 features a breathable mesh and supportive synthetic upper material to keep your feet cool and comfortable on longer runs.
The upper has a no-sew design meaning there are no seams or stitches that are going to irritate your foot on the inside.
There’s a plush tongue and collar which is really going to give you cushioned comfort around those ankles especially.
The inside is now more padded and has a breathable fabric lining to offer a wonderful in-shoe feel to keep you super comfy. The footbed is removable, which gives you room for your own custom orthotic if you have one.
Midsole
There’s also a dual-density ABZORB midsole that features a blend of foam cushioning and compression sets to give you plenty of shock absorption through your stride.
The midsole is very lightweight and it gives you plenty of energy return while you’re out there running.
Outsole
Everything sits atop a blown rubber outsole to keep you steady over a variety of surfaces.
New Balance 1540v3
This amazing motion control shoe is completely breathable with tons of mesh all over the upper. Motion-control shoes have a medial post on the inside of the shoe that’s designed to stop the foot from rolling too much to the inside for somebody who with Plantar Fasciitis.
Yet, in a lot of cases with motion control shoes, especially if they’re being coupled with an orthotic, they can tend to overcorrect the foot.
The good thing with the New Balance 1540v3 is that it has the medial post and a lateral post as well to limit the amount of breakdown on the outside of the shoe.
Pros
- Super comfortable & secure
- Solid stability features & cushioning
- Provides a nice and solid landing
- Stable for weak ankles
- Generous toebox for natural toe splay
- Great for heavyset wearers
- Solid craftsmanship
- Fits orthotics with no issues
- Available in extra-extra wide (6E)
- Available in narrow widths as well
- Great for general wear, walking, jogging, workouts, elliptical machine…
Cons
- Tongue is shorter than before
- Cheap laces
Upper
The New Balance 1540v3 is a clean and sturdy shoe that features a very breathable mesh upper.
Synthetic overlays are placed throughout the entire shoe in key areas for structural support, durability, and protection with reinforced stitching as well.
You’ve got a traditional lace-up design that provides a secure fit around the foot while a padded tongue and collar provide excellent comfort that works well with the fabric lining.
There’s even a removable cushioned footbed that allows you to completely customize the shoe by putting in your custom orthotics, which is pretty sweet. The footbed also provides excellent comfort with each step.
The inside also has additional arch support and antimicrobial properties to keep your foot feeling fresh.
Midsole
But all the main tech is in the midsole. The ENCAP ACTEVA Lite midsole has dual-density shock-absorbing EVA foam to keep you comfortable with each step you take. The misole also gives you added stability and pronation control exactly where you need it the most.
The Rollbar is going to give you a smooth transition from heel strike to toe-off. You even have an Impact Guidance System (IGS) in the bottom as well that provides super-duper flexibility.
It’s all on top of a durable Ndurance rubber outsole to keep you stable.
The bottom also has a very good rocker system so as you walk, it rolls you through. Coming in multiple colors and widths, the New Balance 1540v3 offers plenty of support and tons of comfort in a great running shoe.
New Balance 574v2
In 1982, New Balance changed the footwear industry, once again, by introducing another model that cost $100.
The style offered in great suede was a move away from the bright neons and pops of color that dominated the running industry.
The grey suede became synonymous with New Balance ever since.
Recently, New Balance released the classic 574 in the original gray colorway. New Balance is back again with the classic 574 logo with suede, vintage mesh, and the classic stitching simplified seam construction with a reduced toe height and improved heel shape.
The 574 is the original all-purpose lifestyle sneaker from New Balance. The 574 is more than the sum of its parts. These are the top three features to know about this classic design.
Pros
- High quality
- Impressive comfort, & arch support
- Feels like walking on clouds
- Fits perfectly
- Nice & roomy through the forefoot
- Support your feet during long periods of walking & standing
- Easy on the wallet
Cons
- Inside 574 tag might feel irritating
Legacy
Did you know the numbers in New Balance style names actually mean something? The 7 refers to the brand’s light stability category and the 4 is a nod to the 574’s predecessors, the 575 and the 576 from which they lifted some of its best qualities.
Iconic
The 574 is a core style with some significant history. Developed in the 1980s, this shoe was the first truly go-anywhere shoe. Whether or not should be considered an athleisure trailblazer, it’s up to you.
Comfortable
It’s comfy to boot. The ENCAP midsole is comfortable and cushy which makes it perfect for work, weekends, and beyond.
Heel Stability
Heel stability wasn’t that good and New Balance has reinforced the heel counter with a plastic panel to control heel movement more efficiently.
Sizing
The New Balance 574v2 tends to run a little bit small, so consider ordering a half size larger for a perfect fit.
Versatility
If you wake up one day full of energy and want to go for a run in the nearest jungle, the 574 can take you there and back thanks to its rugged outsole that offers some decent traction and stability on uneven terrain.
History
The New Balance 574 was actually introduced in 1988. It is not an original design because it was inspired by the 575 and the 576.
So, both the 575 and the 576 had very nice details on certain parts of the shoe and New Balance took bits and pieces from each and combined them into one and so that’s how the 574 came to life.
The whole goal for New Balance behind the 574 is that they wanted to create a pair of shoes you can wear for work, walking, running on roads, or even running on some light trails.
The 574 had remained unchanged for about 15 years and then I guess somewhere in 2002 the shoe has seen a lot of modifications leading up to now.
New Balance created the 574 model for skaters, golfers, and hikers. The latest design modification New balance created is last year’s 574s Sport.
New Balance 577 V1 Lace-up
The balance and support the New Balance 577 offers is going to be long-lasting and also very dependable for your Plantar Fasciitis.
The 577 walking shoe has an incredibly tough rubber outsole with a ton of reinforced stitching. It offers a lot of heel stability with a reinforced panel at the toe.
The lace-up system offers a secure fit while the pillowy soft lining in the collar and at the Achilles together with the removable footbed provide added comfort.
The footbed offers a lot of shock absorption giving a great comfortable feeling to your feet.
It features a big thick layer of Abzorb EVA which absorbs the shock and dissipates it taking all the beating. It also has a very stable and supportive base and a textured outsole that has the Walking Strike Path.
Pros
- Provides good support & excellent toe room
- Supportive underfoot & through the upper
- Accommodates custom orthotics
- Tread underfoot is not overly aggressive
- Great comfort for all-day wear
- Ridiculously durable
- Affordable
- Wide widths available
Cons
- Leather might get scuffed easily
- Cheap insole
New Balance 877
The 877 is an incredibly comfortable supportive walking shoe that is one of the best shoes for Plantar Fasciitis.
Comfortable and supportive, the New Balance 877 walking shoe is made with incredibly soft suede with breathable mesh panels all throughout to keep your feet cool.
It features a lot of cushioning around the collar area as well as in the tongue. There’s a comfortable and shock-absorbing footbed that is going to give you some added cushioning or leave room for your own orthotic.
There’s Abzorb cushioning in the midsole, which helps keep the weight down and take all the beating thanks to its highly shock-absorbing material. It also has a wide toe box and sufficient support for walking.
There’s a really nice flat platform on the outsole with the Walking Strike Path to help keep your feet aligned.
Pros
- Nice cushioning for distance walking
- Provides decent arch & ankle support
- Helps alleviate foot discomfort
- Has a roomy and deep toebox for big toes and bunions
- Sturdy for big guys & gals
- Great quality workmanship/price ratio
- Multiple widths available
Cons
- Outsole durability
- Falls a little bit short in arch support
Where to buy the best New Balance shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo V5
What’s Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar Fasciitis is the tearing inflammation and degeneration of the Plantar Fascia, a long ligament on the bottom of the foot.
The inflammation is the result of small micro-tears within the Plantar Fascia. The inflammation causes pain at the inside of the heel where the Plantar Fascia inserts on the heel bone.
The traction on the heel bone from stress to the Plantar Fascia may cause a heel spur to form. Although heel spurs are commonly seen on X-ray, they are rarely the cause of pain. The cause of Plantar Fasciitis is multifactorial.
The abnormal motion in the feet, usually overpronation, in combination with an unsupportive pair of walking or running shoes and overuse can cause microscopic tears in the Plantar Fascia and start the process.
Some common conservative therapies for Plantar Fasciitis include:
- Supportive shoes (list above)
- Icing.
- Stretching.
- Heel lifts.
- Weight loss.
- Taping.
- Orthotics.
- Night splints.
Support Shoes
Supportive shoes are one of the most important steps. A shoe that is too soft and flexible will strain the Plantar Fascia with each step. Think about the shoe as a brace to the ligament protecting it while it heals.
Icing
An ice massage with a frozen water bottle for 15 minutes, two to three times a day will both stretch the Plantar Fascia and decrease inflammation.
Stretching is one of the most important treatments that should be done multiple times a day, including before stepping out of the bed. The Plantar Fascia-Specific Stretch has been shown to be the most beneficial
A heel lift can decrease the stress on the Plantar Fascia.
Tight calf muscles lead to the heel coming off the floor early, which places excess stress to the Plantar Fascia, which results in tearing inflammation, and pain.
Taping
Taping is a method designed to take stress off of the Plantar Fascia to allow it to heal. The method shown is the Low Dye Strapping and can be an effective short-term treatment.
Orthotics
Orthotics are rigid devices placed inside the shoe and designed to control abnormal motion and prevent arch collapse. By placing the foot in the correct position, it will take stress off the Plantar Fascia and allow it to heal.
Night Splints
Night splints can be very beneficial as they help keep the Plantar Fascia stretched out while you sleep. When sleeping, the foot is in a relaxed position. During the night, the cap and the Plantar Fascia contract and tighten and in the morning, they are in a tightened shortened position.
When the full body weight is placed on the foot, the Fascia becomes overstressed and tears. Night splints hold the ankle up and hold the toes back stretching both the calf and the Plantar Fascia during the night allowing the Fascia to heal in an elongated position.
That’s it for today. These were some of the best New Balance shoes for Plantar Fasciitis. If you’ve ever run in a shoe and you feel they helped with your Plantar Fasciitis issues, please let us know.
