I am NOT looking for medical advice, I am looking for hiking boot recommendations for PF. If you do not have a hiking boot/insole recommendation, please do not respond!
I got my PF from a four-hour trail walk in ill-fitting Colombia hiking boots.
After lots of research and medical consultation, I should be going minimalist for hiking shoes (Xero, Topo, Altra, etc.)
Is there anyone with PF that has been able to wear a more traditional hiking boot without foot pain?
Hesitant to buy minimalist boots since they cost so much money and apparently don’t last very long, but obviously I will if I can hike again.
Waterproof is a must as I live in Canada with lots of slush.
I had PF and switched back to rigid boots, which solved the issue for me. I use Asolo Fugitive GTX and Asolo TPS 520 GV Evo with SOLE Performance Medium with Metatarsal Pads insoles. Everyone’s feet are unique, so you’ll need to try options to see what works for you.
@Tatum
Yep, everyone’s feet are different, and it can take quite a bit of trial and error to figure out what works. What makes it even more fun is that our feet can change pretty drastically as we age, so even if one style worked pretty well for a while, that doesn’t mean it will going forward. Really pays to be re-evaluating every few years to make sure you’re still using the best option for you.
@Tatum
Interesting! So much conflicting advice! That makes me nervous haha. Yeah, my doctor said barefoot shoes require a very slow introduction. I also have exercises and they help, but scraping has helped me the most. My pain was gone until I started wearing these awful shoes for work, it came back.
@Peyton
Feet are very unique. Everyone is going to have a different experience with PF and what solves it for them. I haven’t had it flare up since switching back to rigid boots, but some people have to do the opposite to find relief. It’s been probably three, maybe even four years since I had it. What kind of shoes are they making you wear for work?
I’ve found success with Altra for hiking but gradually transitioned to minimalist shoes. For someone new to this, starting with Altra or Topo is wise, as they provide a good transition before going fully barefoot. Just take it slow!
Superfeet insoles have been a game-changer for me. I use them in all my hiking boots, and they provide excellent arch support. I’d suggest trying them with any boots you consider.
Toryn said:
Superfeet insoles have been a game-changer for me. I use them in all my hiking boots, and they provide excellent arch support. I’d suggest trying them with any boots you consider.
@Peyton
Superfeet is not a bad place to start, but the quality is that of an over-the-counter product. I went with Stride Soles which are prescribed by a doctor online and last multiple years in hiking boots. I like that they could make them specifically for my hiking boots and for my slight knee pain. Hope that helps!
I love Xero Shoes but suggest transitioning slowly. Their waterproof boots are great, but avoid models with ‘vegan leather’ as I’ve had durability issues. Maybe try their Daylite Hiker model?
Tate said:
I love Xero Shoes but suggest transitioning slowly. Their waterproof boots are great, but avoid models with ‘vegan leather’ as I’ve had durability issues. Maybe try their Daylite Hiker model?
Thank you! Yes, the doctor suggested transition shoes before barefoot along with foot exercises. I have looked into Xero a bit
Whit said:
Enertor insoles cured my PF after years of issues. They’re expensive but worth it. I use them in my hiking boots, and the difference is incredible.
That’s wild, I’ll have to research these, thank you!
I’ve had great luck with Superfeet Green insoles paired with Altra and Topo shoes. Altra is zero-drop, and Topo has a slight drop, which might help as a transitional shoe. Voltaren cream can also help alleviate pain during hikes.
Topo Ultraventure has been my go-to. They have a slight drop (5mm), which reduces stress on the plantar fascia. Altra felt too flat for me, but Topo struck the perfect balance.