best golf shoes for plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis can be a true menace for golfers, particularly those who spend a considerable amount of time on the course. The condition is characterized by stabbing pain that usually occurs during the first steps in the morning. As you get up and move, the pain normally decreases, but it might return after long periods of standing or when you stand up after sitting.

Understanding how plantar fasciitis affects your game is the first step to finding a solution. Our feet take quite a beating when we play golf. They absorb a lot of shock with each step and can take a real pounding when you swing the club. This can be particularly troublesome if you’re dealing with plantar fasciitis. The wrong type of shoe can exacerbate the condition, turning a fun game of golf into a painful experience.

This guide is dedicated to all golfers struggling with plantar fasciitis. We’ll dive into the features that make a golf shoe great for this condition, review some of the best options on the market, and provide tips on how to find the right fit. Our main objective is to help you enjoy your time on the course, pain-free.

We invite you to walk this path with us, or better yet, stride painlessly down the fairway.

Our Picks for The Best Golf Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

It’s time to delve into the specifics. After extensive research and user reviews, we have compiled a list of the top golf shoes for plantar fasciitis. These shoes provide excellent support, and superior comfort, and are loved by golfers dealing with this common foot condition.

1. FootJoy Pro/SL Golf Shoes

FootJoy’s Pro/SL Golf Shoes come highly recommended for plantar fasciitis. They are designed with a dual-density (D2) midsole that offers a balance of stability and cushioning. Additionally, they boast a foam collar and tongue that provide increased comfort.

Regarding on-course performance, this keeps on delivering. The shoes are quite comfortable right out of the box, and they have one of the nicest spikeless golf shoe sole designs we’ve ever worn. Even in cold, rainy weather, it gives you all the traction you require.

Overall it’s an excellent shoe with minor improvements from past models.

2. ECCO Biom Hybrid 3 Golf Shoes

ECCO’s Biom Hybrid 3 shoes provide a snug fit with their YAK leather uppers and a BIOM® NATURAL MOTION® technology that enables more natural walking motion. They’re a premium choice for comfort, support, and breathability.

It’s a favorite of mine for a reason.

Even if the looks aren’t for everyone, because it’s so very simple and only comes in black, white, and grey the spikeless Biom Hybrid 3 is simply a fantastic golf shoe for feel and performance, made of premium materials.

Again, with golf shoes, it’s important to understand it’s mostly personal preference, and what some like, others might not.

3. Adidas Tech Response Golf Shoe

Another budget-friendly alternative from Adidas, the Tech Response 2.0 is designed for golfers who prefer a single pair of spiked golf shoes that can be worn in all weather conditions.

The colors are pretty plain and don’t appeal to me personally. There are better, more reasonably priced shoes available if you want something a little fancier because they only come in three distinct colors.

Adidas is known for its comfortable and supportive shoes, and the Tech Response Golf Shoes are no exception. They feature a soft EVA midsole for lightweight cushioning and enhanced arch support that can be beneficial for golfers with plantar fasciitis.

Although the Tech Response 2.0 lacks the top spikeless golf shoes’ premium materials and appearance, it is very difficult to dispute the performance on offer for only $65 dollars. The adidas Tech Response 2.0 should be on your radar if you seek a reliable performance that won’t break the budget. It is without a doubt one of the best shoes you can get under $100.

4. Skechers Go Golf Max Golf Shoes

The Go Golf Max Shoes by Skechers are popular among golfers for their lightweight, responsive ULTRA FLIGHT™ cushioning and GOGA MAX® insole that delivers high-rebound comfort.

A spikeless shoe that is super comfy and has great traction.

Comfort-wise you can wear them straight out of the box with no problems.

The Goga Max insole and Ultra Flight midsole provide pleasant, responsive cushioning from heel to toe.

The look is quite simple and sleek and comes in three different color combinations.

Even if it might not be for everyone you can’t argue that it’s a quality shoe.

5. New Balance Minimus SL Golf Shoes

The Minimus SL Golf Shoes from New Balance offer a barefoot-friendly design with ample support and cushioning. The Ortholite insole provides cool, dry comfort, while the flexible spikeless outsole allows for a natural feel and superb traction.

I am impressed after testing a pair of New Balance golf shoes for the first time.

Golfers will appreciate the spikeless outsole, superior padding, and stylish design that the Minimus SL shoe offers.

They come in a variety of fantastic colors and designs.

They differ significantly from standard saddle shoes in that they are more comfortable right out of the box and have a Minimus drop for a more natural gait and feel on the course while still having Maximus comfort.

It’s worth noting that while all of these shoes have been praised by golfers with plantar fasciitis, it’s always a good idea to try on a pair yourself before making a purchase. Remember, what feels comfortable and supportive to one person might not feel the same to another.

What is Plantar Fasciitis? 

Plantar fasciitis is a common orthopedic complaint that involves inflammation of a thick band of tissue, called the plantar fascia, which runs across the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes. The plantar fascia acts as a shock absorber and supports the arch of your foot. When the plantar fascia experiences too much tension or pressure, it can develop small tears, leading to pain and inflammation – a condition known as plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis usually causes a stabbing pain in the bottom of your foot near the heel. The pain is often the worst with the first few steps after awakening, although it can also be triggered by long periods of standing or when you stand up after sitting.

As for a golf player, plantar fasciitis can significantly affect their performance due to several reasons:

1. Mobility: Golf requires significant foot mobility, particularly in the backswing and follow-through. Pain and discomfort from plantar fasciitis can limit this mobility and affect the overall swing.
2. Stability and Balance: A proper golf swing requires a solid base, with weight evenly distributed across both feet. Pain or discomfort from plantar fasciitis can disrupt this balance, leading to inconsistency in swings.
3. Walking: Golf often requires walking across the course, which can exacerbate the pain of plantar fasciitis. It can even limit a player’s ability to play if the pain becomes too severe.
4. Fatigue: Chronic pain can also lead to overall fatigue, which can affect the player’s concentration and performance during a game.
5. Treatment and Recovery: Conservative treatments like rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain medications may not be enough for some athletes. They might require physical therapy, orthotic devices, night splints, or even more invasive treatments like corticosteroid injections or surgery, leading to time off the course.

A golf player with plantar fasciitis needs to seek proper medical advice and treatment to manage the condition effectively. This may include a combination of rest, physical therapy, use of appropriate footwear or insoles, and potentially more invasive treatments if necessary.

What to Look for in Golf Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

When you’re dealing with plantar fasciitis, not just any golf shoe will do. Here are some features to look for:

1. Proper Arch Support:

A shoe with proper arch support is crucial for golfers with plantar fasciitis. It will help to distribute pressure evenly across your foot and can prevent your arch from collapsing, which can lead to further pain.

2. Cushioning:

A good golf shoe for plantar fasciitis will have ample cushioning. This provides shock absorption, which can relieve strain on your plantar fascia.

3. Comfortable Fit:

A shoe that is too tight or too loose can aggravate plantar fasciitis. It’s important to find a shoe that fits correctly to avoid unnecessary pressure or rubbing.

4. Stable Heel:

A stable heel can provide extra support and can also help to control pronation, which can exacerbate plantar fasciitis.

5. Breathability:

Feet that are hot and sweaty are more prone to blisters and other discomforts. A breathable shoe can help to keep your feet dry and comfortable on the course.

6. Consider Custom Orthotics:

If your foot pain persists, you may want to consider custom orthotics. These are inserts that you can put in your golf shoes to provide additional support. They can be particularly helpful if you have flat feet or high arches.

The best golf shoes for plantar fasciitis will incorporate these features into a design that is both stylish and practical for the golf course. But remember, every foot is unique. What works best for one person might not work as well for another.

Understanding Your Golf Shoes Better: Spikes, Fit, and Maintenance

Let’s delve deeper into understanding your golf shoes, which will further aid in your quest to find the best golf shoe for plantar fasciitis.

1. Why Do Golf Shoes Have Spikes?

Spikes on golf shoes serve a critical purpose. They provide the necessary traction to keep you grounded, especially in damp or wet conditions on the course. This is vital not only for stability when walking on varied terrains but also to secure a firm stance during the swing. It is why every golfer needs a shoe with the right traction. More about this can be found in our post about Why Do Golf Shoes Have Spikes?

2. How Should Golf Shoes Fit?

The fit of your golf shoes can significantly impact your comfort levels, especially when dealing with foot issues like plantar fasciitis. They should fit snugly around your heel and midfoot, with a little wiggle room around the toes. A shoe that is too tight can cause discomfort and exacerbate existing foot conditions, while a loose shoe can lack the necessary support. Make sure you take the time to understand How Your Golf Shoes Should Fit to ensure optimal comfort and support.

3. How to Clean Golf Shoes?

Keeping your golf shoes clean is essential to ensure they last longer and perform well. Remove any dirt or debris from the spikes after every round and clean the uppers with a suitable shoe cleaner. Ensure they are properly dried before storage to prevent the growth of mold or mildew. Read more about maintaining your golf shoes in our post about How To Clean Golf Shoes

In conclusion, choosing the right golf shoes can significantly impact your comfort and performance on the golf course, especially if you’re dealing with foot issues like plantar fasciitis. By understanding the various aspects of golf shoes, from their design to their care, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect pair to help you enjoy your game without pain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Remember, everyone’s feet are different, and what works best for one person may not work as well for another. It’s always a good idea to try on multiple pairs of shoes to see which one feels the most comfortable and supportive for you.