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Tuesday, September 16, 2025

The 9 Finest Climbing Boots for Plantar Fasciitis in 2025, Examined


When you will have painful plantar fasciitis, it may be difficult to seek out footwear that helps alleviate your signs and forestall recurrences. However it’s potential to cut back the irritation of the plantar fascia—the band of tissue supporting the arches of your ft—by carrying boots with nice arch help and additional cushioning beneath the heel. One of the best mountain climbing boots for plantar fasciitis are agency, not too versatile, and constructed to help your physique weight, says podiatrist Saylee Tulpule, DPM.

To search out the highest mountain climbing boots for plantar fasciitis, we began by asking board-certified podiatrists and different specialists which key options every pair ought to have. Then, we examined 100 expert-approved mountain climbing boots from prime manufacturers. We wore every shoe whereas mountain climbing on completely different terrains and standing for lengthy intervals of time. Our remaining choices obtained excessive scores for match, help, responsiveness, cushioning, consolation, high quality, and worth.

Keen Women’s Targhee

Credit score: REI
Execs

  • Nice traction

  • Waterproof

  • Very sturdy

Key Specs

Sizes: Ladies’s 5-11 | Colours: 11 | Supplies: Leather-based and mesh higher, mesh lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole | APMA-Licensed: No | Our General Ranking: 4.8/5

Who They’re For

Finest for leisure day hikers who need a sturdy, waterproof boot for out of doors adventures.

Why We Love Them

Eager’s Targhee III Mid Climbing Boots are our prime suggestion for ladies, because of their distinctive arch help and cushioning that assist preserve plantar fasciitis at bay. Throughout check hikes, we had been impressed by the boots’ rugged, sturdy design. We additionally love that the versatile higher provided a shut, snug match from our first trek. 

On the floor, the Targhee III is an efficient, waterproof boot with deep lugs that present loads of grippy traction on the path. However what units these boots aside is their technical options, together with a strap within the lacing system that wraps across the heel for stability, a sturdy ankle cuff, and an abrasion-resistant toe guard. 

Throughout testing, we had been impressed by how effectively the Targhee III’s smooth midsole supported our heels and arches. Even higher, they’ve odor-control expertise to assist preserve your ft recent, even in heat climate. Extremely protecting and well-made, they had been a transparent alternative for our greatest ladies’s mountain climbing boot for plantar fasciitis decide.

Additionally out there in males’s sizes at Amazon and Eager.

Potential Flaws

  • Whereas it does provide stellar help and cushioning, the Targhee III will not be padded sufficient for multi-day hikes with heavy packs.

Most Priceless Perception

“These boots are actually well-made and can be a stable funding. They really feel actually steady and responsive on surfaces, and never overly padded or cushioned on the ankle collar, which I personally like as a result of they aren’t tight on my extra muscular ankles. They’re additionally very protecting!” —Jessica M., Verywell Match product tester

Amazon Oboz Men's Bridger Mid B-Dry Hiking Boot

Credit score: Amazon
Execs

  • Properly-defined arch

  • Waterproof

  • Wonderful traction

Key Specs

Sizes: Males’s 7-13 | Colours: 3 | Supplies: Leather-based and cloth higher, nylon mesh lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole | APMA-Licensed: No | Our General Ranking: 4.7/5

Who They’re For

Finest for out of doors fanatics who want a sturdy, supportive mountain climbing boot that may deal with powerful situations.

Why We Love Them

For mountain climbing, we advocate swapping your strolling footwear for sturdy boots with dependable traction, like Oboz’s Bridger Mid B-DRY Climbing Boot. Throughout check hikes, they delivered consolation and stability with out feeling too cumbersome or stiff. Their smooth cushioning and cosy heel counter work collectively to maintain ft feeling supported whereas stopping plantar fasciitis ache. Plus, the boots’ insole encompasses a well-defined arch, whereas a nylon shank and protecting footplate shield your ft towards sticks, rocks, and different particles.

We had been additionally impressed by how this pair balances waterproofing and breathability. They successfully stored water out but in addition allowed sweat to flee to forestall overheated, clammy ft. And we like that the rubber outsole with 4-millimeter multidirectional lugs felt grippy and durable—even on slick, technical terrain.

Additionally out there in ladies’s sizes at Amazon, REI, and Oboz.

Potential Flaws

  • This pair is pricier than a number of the different mountain climbing boots on our record, however we predict they’re definitely worth the funding for his or her distinctive help and luxury.
  • We like that these boots are available vast sizes, for a extra exact match. Nevertheless, they do are inclined to run small, so we advocate ordering one measurement up out of your ordinary.

Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid Gore-tex Women's

Credit score: REI

Key Specs

Sizes: Ladies’s 5-11 | Colours: 4 | Supplies: Leather-based and mesh higher, mesh lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole | APMA-Licensed: No | Our General Ranking: 4.9/5

Who They’re For

Finest for quick hikes over tough trails in moist climate. 

Why We Love Them

Salomon’s X Extremely 4 Mid GTX Climbing Boots are able to sort out all forms of climate and terrain, because of their dependable waterproofing and ultra-grippy soles. Throughout testing, we observed that the boots’ wonderful help and luxury fends off plantar fasciitis ache, with out feeling too heavy or stiff. We additionally like that they’re designed with shock-absorbing foam and an OrthoLite insole that molds to your ft for a custom-like match.

When testing these boots, we discovered them to be pretty versatile, however nonetheless very supportive within the arch space. The Gore-Tex membrane and gusseted tongue successfully block water and particles from getting in. In the meantime, the sturdy rubber sole delivered dependable grip on moist, dry, laborious, and unfastened surfaces, whereas additionally providing management on tough descents throughout testing. We had been additionally impressed with the boots’ roomy toe field that allow our toes naturally splay out, for additional stability and luxury. 

Additionally out there in males’s sizes at Amazon

Potential Flaws

  • Though the boots are breathable, we did discover that the extremely efficient waterproofing could make ft a bit sweaty throughout highly regarded hikes.

Most Priceless Perception

“These are essentially the most snug mountain climbing boots that I’ve ever examined. They’re actually versatile and light-weight, but provide loads of cushion, help, and safety throughout hikes. Whereas it has a sporty look that I wasn’t positive I’d love, it’s not over-the-top in particular person and is available in very nice, earthy colorways that look nice on.” —Jessica M., Verywell Match product tester

columbia-womens-newton-ridge-plus-hiking-boot

Credit score: Amazon

Key Specs

Sizes: Ladies’s 5-12 | Colours: 17 | Supplies: Leather-based and suede higher, foam midsole, rubber outsole | APMA-Licensed: No | Our General Ranking: 4.9/5

Who They’re For

Finest for gentle mountain climbing or informal put on.

Why We Love Them

On a price range? You don’t must sacrifice high quality, consolation, or help with Columbia’s Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Climbing Boot. They boast loads of cushioning and stability proper the place you want it most, whereas nonetheless sustaining a light-weight really feel. Once we examined them on the path, we observed the insole felt supportive and extremely cushioned, for combatting plantar fasciitis and foot fatigue.

We had been additionally impressed by the Newton’s waterproof, seam-sealed building—a characteristic that’s not usually seen at this budget-friendly worth. With a grippy, rubber sole, they carried out effectively on technical trails, in addition to moist and dry surfaces. We additionally love that they arrive in greater than a dozen impartial and enjoyable colours, so you possibly can select a pair that speaks to your particular person type.

Additionally out there in males’s sizes at Dick’s Sporting Items and Columbia.

Potential Flaws

  • Throughout testing, the toe field didn’t really feel as spacious as we’d like. However they do are available vast sizes for many who want a roomier match.
  • Whereas the light-weight, versatile really feel makes this pair excellent for day hikes, sightseeing, or informal put on, they’re not your best option for carrying heavy pack hundreds.

Merrell Men's Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boot

Credit score: REI
Execs

  • Wonderful traction

  • Detachable insoles

  • Nice shock absorption

Key Specs

Sizes: Males’s 7-14 | Colours: 6 | Supplies: Leather-based and textile mesh higher, mesh lining, foam midsole, rubber sole | APMA-Licensed: No | Our General Ranking: 5/5

Who They’re For

Finest for hikers with heel ache who want a rugged boot with nice help.

Why We Love Them

A favourite amongst hikers, Merrell’s Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Climbing Boot takes our most sturdy spot due to its consolation, help, and stability. Throughout check hikes, we had been impressed with the shoe’s stable building and sturdiness. With a padded, however versatile, collar and a molded arch within the midsole for help, they felt snug immediately. The Moab 3’s heel can be elevated and extraordinarily shock-absorbent, which is very helpful for plantar fasciitis.

Like a few of our different prime picks, these boots are waterproof, however they’re nonetheless breathable sufficient that your ft gained’t overheat. We love that the thick tongue can be designed to maintain out dust, moisture, and particles, whereas a rubber toe cap offers further safety in entrance. Plus, the rubber sole has 5-millimeter lugs that ship nice traction—even whereas mountain climbing on steep dust trails, we discovered that these boots stored us feeling regular and sure-footed. With a full-grain leather-based higher, the Moab 3 is each powerful and simple to put on, making it essentially the most sturdy boot we examined. 

Additionally out there in ladies’s sizes at Amazon, REI, and Merrell.

Potential Flaws

  • Throughout testing, we observed that these boots run vast, which can be a problem you probably have slender ft.

Most Priceless Perception

“My associate says these are stable but snug mountain climbing boots that he can inform will likely be long-lasting. They received him up and down steep dust trails simply due to their pure traction.” —Jessica M., Verywell Match product tester

L.L.Bean Original Bean Boot 6"

Credit score: L.L.Bean
Execs

  • Waterproof

  • Simple to scrub

  • Is available in three widths

Key Specs

Sizes: Ladies’s 6-11 | Colours: 1 | Supplies: Leather-based higher, leather-based and textile lining and footbed, rubber outsole | APMA-Licensed: No | Our General Ranking: 5/5

Who They’re For

Finest for stomping via moist, muddy situations.

Why We Love Them

For strolling or working in moist climate, it’s powerful to beat the safety, sturdiness, and luxury you get from L.L.Bean’s Bean Boots. This tried and true, duck boot hybrid encompasses a versatile, snug sole and a metal midsole shank for lateral and arch help, making them a sensible alternative for anybody liable to plantar fasciitis. Throughout testing, our ft remained pain-free, even after a full day of wear and tear. With a versatile type and the simple consolation of an on a regular basis shoe, we discovered ourselves reaching for these boots for the whole lot from mountain climbing to informal put on.

The sturdy rubber outsoles delivered distinctive traction in a wide range of situations, and we love that the waterproofing stored our ft fully dry in moist climate. We additionally appreciated that these boots had been simple to scrub—all we needed to do was hose them down. Designed with a basic silhouette, the Bean Boot has a lace-up closure and is available in three completely different widths, so discovering the best match is easy.

Additionally out there in males’s sizes at Zappos and L.L.Bean.

Potential Flaws

  • Though we didn’t have any points with the connected tongue, we predict it’d make it tougher for some wearers to get these boots on. We discovered that the tongue helped preserve out water, so we predict it’s price any added problem.

Most Priceless Perception

“I really like the match of those boots—having a large foot, it is laborious to discover a shoe that matches appropriately, however this pair does the trick. Additionally, I really like the look of those. I additionally take pleasure in how waterproof they’re!” —Megan W., Verywell Match product tester

Orthofeet Alps Boots

Credit score: Amazon
Execs

  • Has a zipper and laces

  • Is available in three widths

  • Rocker design

Key Specs

Sizes: Ladies’s 5 to 12 | Colours: 2 | Supplies: Artificial higher, foam midsole, rubber sole | APMA-Licensed: Sure

Who They’re For

Finest for anybody who wants a heat, weather-resistant boot for shoveling snow or strolling the canine in wintry situations. 

Why We Love Them

When the climate turns chilly and snowy, we advocate reaching for Orthofeet’s Alps Waterproof Boots for equal safety from the weather and plantar fasciitis ache. Designed with orthotic insoles which have anatomical arch help, this pair promotes higher alignment to ease ache in your ft and heels. Plus, the ergonomic, cushioned sole softens affect and relieves stress in your heel. We additionally like that this pair has a delicate rocker design that provides a spring to your step and helps cut back fatigue.

Together with safety from plantar fasciitis, these boots will preserve your ft heat and dry in harsh climate, because of the waterproof higher, gusseted tongue, and sealed seams. These APMA-approved boots additionally characteristic a spacious toe field that forestalls blisters whereas assuaging stress on bunions and hammertoes. Plus, they’re out there in three widths, in the event you want much more room. And with a aspect zipper and basic laces, they’re a cinch to get on and off.

Potential Flaws

  • The slip-resistant rubber outsole isn’t as grippy as a number of the mountain climbing books we’ve examined. However it’s nonetheless sufficient to maintain you regular in your ft in moist or icy situations.

Hoka Anacapa Breeze Mid Boot

Credit score: Hoka

Key Specs

Sizes: Ladies’s 5-11 | Colours: 5 | Supplies: Mesh and recycled yarn higher, foam midsole, rubber outsole | APMA-Licensed: Sure | Our General Ranking: 4.3/5

Who They’re For

Finest for hikers who additionally often run on the paths. 

Why We Love Them

Hoka brings the comfortable, light-weight really feel of their standard trainers to a mountain climbing boot with the Anacapa Breeze Mid Climbing Boot. With plush cushioning and stable arch help, these footwear are designed to assist preserve your plantar fasciitis at bay. Throughout testing, we had been impressed by how smooth the midsole felt, maintaining our ft pain-free all through every trek. Plus, the Anacapa Breeze is light-weight, versatile, and breathable sufficient that it’s appropriate for each mountain climbing and path operating.

We had been additionally impressed by this pair’s thick, grippy outsole, which carried out effectively on slippery and rocky surfaces. These sturdy, AMPA-approved boots even have a vast base for higher stability and a roomy toe field for nice stability. The excessive heel counter and giant pull tab, in addition to the three units of lace hooks, made it extraordinarily simple to get these footwear on and off—an enormous plus for mountain climbing boots and a characteristic that set these aside throughout testing.

Additionally out there in males’s sizes at Dick’s Sporting Items and Hoka.

Potential Flaws

  • Though this pair’s light-weight really feel helped preserve us nimble on the paths, the higher materials isn’t waterproof, and it’s on the thinner aspect. This implies the Anacapa will not be as protecting as another boots on our record, like our picks from Merrell and Eager.
  • Throughout testing, we observed that the bigger heel felt just a little thick and hulking.

Most Priceless Perception

“I really like how grippy the soles of those footwear are, and that my ft really feel cushioned and do not damage on the finish of an extended hike.” —Grace Ok., Verywell Match product tester

What to Search for in Climbing Boots for Plantar Fasciitis

  • Objective: For mountain climbing, search for inflexible boots, since versatile pairs will put extra stress in your plantar fascia. Should you plan to hike in chilly or wet climate, you’ll need insulated, waterproof boots with deep lugs that may grip snow, mud, or unfastened dust effectively. Types with shallower treads are greatest for informal put on and strolling on paved surfaces.
  • Supplies: Most boots are created from a mixture of leather-based, rubber, polyester, nylon, and mesh. Leather-based boots could also be extra sturdy, however they’re additionally heavier. Boots made with polyester or mesh uppers aren’t as long-lasting, however they’re extra light-weight and breathable.
  • Heel Top: Tulpule recommends vast, block heels which can be two inches excessive (at most). Any larger could result in ache—plus, it could have an effect on your strolling posture and stability. Should you’ll be carrying your boots for lengthy intervals of time, search for a barely elevated heel, which will increase the arch peak and takes stress off of your plantar fascia, says podiatrist Janine Ferrigno-Taddeo, DPM.
  • Cushioning: The cushioning in a boot’s footbed can relieve ache by absorbing shock as you stroll, softening the affect out of your heels hitting the bottom. Simply ensure that the midsole isn’t so plush that it compromises on help.
  • APMA Seal: You may really feel assured about selecting boots which have obtained the American Podiatric Medical Affiliation’s (APMA) Seal of Acceptance. With a purpose to earn the seal, every product is reviewed by a bunch of podiatrists. As soon as it meets sure standards, the seal is awarded to designate the boot as a product that promotes good foot well being. The committee chooses merchandise primarily based on their total high quality, wearability, security, and effectiveness.
Contemplate insulation, supplies, heel peak, and cushioning when choosing boots.

Verywell Match / Jessica Murtaugh


How We Examined the Climbing Boots for Plantar Fasciitis

To search out the perfect mountain climbing boots for plantar fasciitis, we examined 100 choices on miles of walks and hikes. Throughout testing, we consider every shoe primarily based on these essential standards:

  • High quality: Once we first put the boots on, we study their building. Do they appear well-made? Then, we carry out the bend check, checking that they solely bend proper behind the toe (not on the arch). We additionally attempt to twist them to ensure they’re inflexible and steady.
  • Match: In the course of the first put on, we additionally assess the match. Do the boots really feel too vast or slender? We be aware whether or not we’re capable of wiggle our toes. Do our heels slide out and in, or is the match safe? We examine these observations to the producer’s specs to find out whether or not the boots run small, giant, slender, or vast.
  • Consolation: Whereas strolling and mountain climbing within the boots, we assess how snug they really feel. Do the boots soothe or exacerbate our plantar fasciitis ache? We additionally take note of any ache or stress in our heels and arches. Can we discover any blisters, chafing, or irritation after check walks?
  • Assist: As we stroll and hike on completely different terrains, we be aware whether or not the boots make it simpler or harder. Can we really feel regular on our ft? Do our ft, ankles, and knees really feel steady and supported?
  • Responsiveness: We take note of whether or not the boots push us ahead with every step. Can we discover fast or sluggish transitions between strides? We additionally be aware whether or not the boots soak up affect whereas strolling, or if we really feel any ache in our heels. By the tip of the check, does the midsole nonetheless really feel the identical underfoot?
  • Cushioning: One of the best boots for plantar fasciitis have thick cushioning that helps and cradles your ft. As we hike or stroll in every pair, we assess whether or not the padding feels agency or squishy. We additionally be aware if there’s any additional padding within the heel, forefoot, tongue, or collar.
  • Worth: To fee a mountain climbing boot’s worth, we wait to take a look at its worth till the tip of the testing interval, after we’ve evaluated it in all different classes. Primarily based on their efficiency throughout testing, will we really feel the boots are priced pretty? Or would we solely purchase them in the event that they went on sale?

Our Consultants

We consulted foot and shoe specialists all through our analysis, testing, and reporting course of. Some, like Tulpule, helped us perceive which key options to search for in every pair. Others, like Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, a podiatrist, and Devon Vanoostveen, international advertising supervisor at Merrell, helped form our testing course of. Though we select merchandise independently, professional steerage influences our selections.

  • Saylee Tulpule, DPM, a podiatrist with Foot and Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic in Maryland
  • Janine Ferrigno-Taddeo, DPM, a podiatrist with the Millburn Podiatry Group in New Jersey
  • Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, a podiatrist primarily based in New York
  • Devon Vanoostveen, international advertising supervisor at Merrell

Incessantly Requested Questions

What sort of footwear do you have to put on you probably have plantar fasciitis? 

In case you have plantar fasciitis, it is best to search for footwear with wonderful arch help, shock-absorbing cushioning, a inflexible sole, and a thick midsole or a rocker-shaped sole to divert the affect of strolling away out of your heels. Added cushioning and arch help will make your arches really feel extra snug and enhance the way in which your plantar fascia capabilities, says Tulpule. Additionally, test for a agency heel counter (the half behind your heel), which is able to assist forestall your plantar fascia from stretching abnormally. 

Is arch help essential for plantar fasciitis? 

Sure—not solely will built-in arch help assist deal with your plantar fasciitis signs, however it could additionally forestall a recurrence by maintaining your plantar fascia from turning into infected, Ferrigno-Taddeo says. Should you at present put on custom-made orthotics, search for boots with detachable footbeds so you possibly can simply switch them. 

Is reminiscence foam good for plantar fasciitis? 

Whereas reminiscence foam can really feel plush and comfortable underfoot, it’s extra squishy than springy, so it doesn’t provide nice arch help. In case you have plantar fasciitis, you’re higher off carrying footwear with firmer, extra supportive foam cushioning.

Which footwear do you have to keep away from carrying you probably have plantar fasciitis?

In case you have plantar fasciitis, keep away from carrying ill-fitting, unsupportive, or poorly cushioned footwear, like flip-flops, sandals, or minimalist footwear. Additionally, search for a barely elevated heel—keep away from carrying footwear which can be the identical peak within the entrance and within the again, Valencia says.

Why Belief Verywell Match

Christine Luff, ACE-CPT is a Verywell Match author with 20 years of expertise writing and modifying well being and health content material. As a licensed private coach, operating coach, and avid runner, she’s all the time researching and testing trainers and different health gear. She has a historical past of plantar fasciitis, however has been capable of forestall pesky flare-ups by carrying footwear with the best help and cushioning for her high-arched ft. For this text, Christine regarded over the check outcomes from our lab to assist compile our prime picks.

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