I’ve had a lot of success with Superfeet insoles. When my PF flares up, pairing insoles with barefoot-style shoes has helped. I use Altra and Topo for hiking now – Altra is mostly zero-drop while Topo has a bit more support.
Superfeet green insoles have worked great for me. I also like Tread Labs insoles because they offer different arch heights and are more flexible. For pain relief, I use Voltaren when needed and roll out my feet with a massage ball.
@Bran
Another vote for Superfeet! I have them in all my shoes. Hiking boots are Salomon Quest 4D GTX, and I’ve been PF-free for two years, even after picking up running again.
@Bran
You’re the second person to mention Superfeet. I’ll check them out, thanks!
Zero-drop shoes can cause PF if there are muscle imbalances or a tight Achilles. A higher heel drop can reduce strain on the foot by shifting the load to the upper leg muscles. I had PF issues with Altra’s zero-drop shoes, but the 5mm drop in my Topo Ultraventure shoes works well for me.
@Pax
Unless you’re a foot specialist, it’s hard to state that as fact! I’m really just looking for shoe recommendations here, not medical advice. But I appreciate the info on the Topos.
Surprised your doctor recommended minimal shoes for PF! I’ve had to do some experimenting with footwear, and for me, more support is key. I use custom insoles in my work boots and a pair similar to Superfeet in my hiking shoes.
Right now, I’m hiking in Oboz Sypes, which are light but hold up well on rocky trails. Hope this helps!
@Tate
Thanks! Since PF can stem from restricted foot movement, my doctor suggests minimalist shoes to strengthen the muscles. I’ll look into the Oboz options, thank you!
For me, keeping my weight below 140 pounds has been the most effective fix. I tried everything, but that’s what really made the difference.
I had PF and found that stretching my foot often and using high-arch shoes helped before long hikes. I use Wolverine boots, which work great for me, and my PF pain has gone away.
Ren said:
I had PF and found that stretching my foot often and using high-arch shoes helped before long hikes. I use Wolverine boots, which work great for me, and my PF pain has gone away.
High arch support hasn’t helped me and goes against my specialist’s advice, but I’ll look into Wolverine boots. Thanks!
@Logan
If you have high arches, adding arch support can make a huge difference.
If your PF is due to a tear, it needs rest and could benefit from orthotic inserts to redistribute pressure. Minimalist shoes won’t do that. Since PF heals slowly, try calf and heel stretches to avoid future injuries.
@Ellison
Just a heads-up that I’m not looking for medical advice – I’ve consulted with a specialist, and orthotics aren’t the route we’re taking.
Stretching and calf rolls help me more than specific shoes.
I have very high arches, so I need good arch support, but that’s more for general comfort than my PF.