Top 10 Best Work Boots for Plantar Fasciitis [2022 Guide & Tips]

If you are suffering from Plantar fasciitis you know how annoying it can be – stabbing pain when you get out of bed and make your first steps….

Well, Believe it or not You’re not alone!

Around 10% of the population around the globe will suffer from Plantar fasciitis.

And if your job requires you to be on your feet for a long period of time (working in shifts and performing physical activity) this can become a huge problem and cause severe damage.

So what do we do about it?

First, you got to see a doctor. Of course.

Second, try to find better shoes.

Do you know that the right pair of shoes or boots can really ease the pain and have a profound effect?

The best way to treat a Plantar fasciitis is by wearing the right kind of shoes (or boots). Unlike regular shoes, these shoes have been specially developed to reduce pressure on the joints for an easier, more pleasant and healthier walk.

They have great foot support and allow you to stand and walk with maximum comfort, these boots provide support and comfort to the foot thanks to their unique structure, prevent pain and discomfort, and help you ease condition like Plantar fasciitis.

What are the Best Work Boots for Plantar Fasciitis?

After in-depth and thorough research that included inspecting 246 boots models, here is the ulitimate list of the 10 work boots who are the best for people who suffer from plantar fasciitis:

1. KEEN Utility Men’s Flint Mid Work Boot
2. Caterpillar Men’s Second Shift Work Boot
3. Wolverine Men’s Raider Steel-Toe 6″ Work Boot
4. Timberland PRO Men’s 6″ Pit Boss Soft Toe
5. Carhartt Men’s CMF6371 RugFlx6inblkcomp-M
6. Bates Men’s 5″ Ultralite Tactical Sport Military Boot
7. Timberland PRO Men’s Rigmaster 8″ Waterproof Met Work Boot
8. Stanley Men’s Dredge Soft Toe Industrial and Construction Shoe
9. Timberland PRO Men’s Boondock 6″ Waterproof Non-Insulated Work Boot
10. Justin Original Work Boots Men’s Double Comfort 4760 Work Boot

And now, for the full reviews & buying guide:

1. KEEN Utility Men’s Flint Mid Work Boot – View On Amazon

Keen Utility Men’s Flint Mid Work Boot is one of the best work boots in the market right now for anyone suffering from plantar fasciitis. This pair of work boots is made for light duty use such as in the construction, landscaping, manufacturing, warehouse and distribution, and transportation industries. It is also designed with superior torsion stability and enhanced breathability so your feet stay comfortable throughout the day.

As a safety feature, this pair comes with a steel toe feature and is electrical hazard rated. Thus, this pair of work boots is also ideal for use when handling electrical connections and other similar work environments. The outsole is made with oil- and slip-resistant material so you can have peace of mind even when dealing with low traction surfaces or wet areas.

The underfoot cushioning is made with compression molded EVA foam. Thus, you can ensure superior comfort on your midsole. The upper material is also built for comfort with its water-resistant leather and mesh material. The side cutouts are another bonus feature to provide more breathability to your feet when worn. With the combination of practical and functional features, the Keen Utility Men’s Flint Mid Work Boot is recommended for those suffering from plantar fasciitis.

2. Caterpillar Men’s Second Shift Work Boot – View On Amazon

Caterpillar is a name that is familiar in the work boot industry. In fact, this brand has been synonymous with trusted quality. Given that reputation, you know what to expect with the Caterpillar Men’s Second Shift Work Boot. It is rated as one of the best work boots in the market, especially for those who are suffering from plantar fasciitis.

This work boot is made from 100% leather material. For this reason, you can expect quality and longevity when it comes to performance in any work environment. It also comes with a well-supported synthetic sole to ensure no slip on any kind of surfaces, even slippery or wet ones. The shaft and the heels are well thought-out to ensure that you can get optimum fit and support.

The lace-up closure of this work boot gives it a classic and timeless design. The lace-up closure is complemented by the hex-shape grommets. These features make this work boot an ideal choice for anyone who might be conscious about style, on top of performance. Other notable features that make this work boot highly recommended for those with plantar fasciitis include the solid and stable construction, heel and arch support, and oil-resistant traction outsole.

To read more about Caterpillar Men’s Second Shift visit best ironworker boots

3. Wolverine Men’s Raider Steel-Toe 6″ Work Boot – View On Amazon

Wolverine is a brand that has been around for over 135 years. Given that longevity, you can expect unparalleled quality when it comes to shoes manufacturing and Wolverine Men’s Raider Steel Toe Work Boot does not disappoint. It makes the list of the best work boots for plantar fasciitis because of its impeccable support, performance, and quality.

It starts with the overall design of this work boot, which is made with premium full-grain leather. The choice of material not only delivers in style and quality but it also makes it comfortable to wear. The choice of leather material provides added durability and makes it easy to clean and polish every after use.

In addition to the premium leather, the work boot is designed with contour welt construction to give it flexibility. This feature is very important when choosing work boots for plantar fasciitis because you want the shoes to provide seamless motion with every step, which softens the impact on your foot and heel.

The flexible construction is also coupled with a durable sole. This pair is made with the Wolverine MultiShox rubber lug outsole that provides resistance against oily and slippery surfaces. It also protects your shoes from unnecessary abrasion. All of these factors combine to make this pair durable enough to withstand any type of work environment while giving adequate support to your feet for utmost comfort.

4. Timberland PRO Men’s 6″ Pit Boss Soft Toe – View On Amazon

Timberland PRO Men’s Pit Boss Soft Toe Work Boot is another recommended pair of work boot for those with plantar fasciitis. Available in two colors – brown and wheat – this work boot is made from 100% leather materials.

This work boot is built for comfort and this feature alone makes it suitable for anyone dealing with heel pain. It provides adequate support to the heels and the arch of your foot because it is developed with those who spend long hours on their feet working each day in mind. Thus, you won’t have to worry about dealing with pain on your heels and the arch of your foot at the end of the day.

In addition to being comfortable, the Timberland Pit Boss Soft Toe work boot is also built to be safe and tough. This work boot meets the ANSI safety standard. It is made with slip- and oil-resistant outsoles so you can get more traction on any kind of surface. But that’s not all – this work boot is also designed with the PRO 24/7 Comfort Suspension technology. This is a unique comfort system available to Timberland work boots that guarantees any pair can withstand the most rigorous work site demands. This particular technology helps to alleviate foot fatigue while providing support and cushion to the arch of your feet with every step.

All models from the Timberland PRO range are developed with the same set of quality workmanship across all types of work boots and work shoes. This is how you can guarantee that you have a quality workwear shoe that combines safety, durability, and protection. They are built to give you comfort all day, thanks to the heel support and anti-fatigue insoles.

5. Carhartt Men’s CMF6371 RugFlx6inblkcomp-M – View On Amazon

The Carhartt Men’s CMF6371 RugFlx6inblkcomp-M is another recommended model for anyone in search of the best work boots for plantar fasciitis. This work boot is made from 100% leather and comes with a rubber outsole. This Carhartt boots is designed with a lace-up closure along with an eyelet design that comes with speed hooks. Thus, it is practically designed to make it easy to put on and take off. At the same time, this design ensures that your work boots stay in place and has a snug fit when worn.

What makes this ideal for those with plantar fasciitis is its rubber heel and toe. This feature provides extra support and durability. It also helps to reduce the impact on your feet and heels with every step, even when you are working on hard surfaces. It also provides the perfect combination of supportive comfort, lightweight construction and waterproof protection. You can have peace of mind knowing that this pair of work boots can handle even the toughest work environments!

One of the most unique features about these Carhartt boots is the Storm Defender waterproof membrane. This feature provides breathability to the work boots when worn so your feet can stay dry even when you have it on the entire day. At the same time, it gives waterproof protection so you won’t have to worry about rain or when working on wet surfaces. All of these features combine to deliver a comfortable work environment.

6. Bates Men’s 5″ Ultralite Tactical Sport Military Boot – View On Amazon

The Bates Men’s Enforcer Uniform Boot makes the list of the best work boots for plantar fasciitis because of its lightweight cushioned EVA midsole. This is an important feature to look for when buying work boots to deal with chronic heel pain. You want to make sure there is adequate support on the heel and arch of the foot so as to minimize the impact of every step, and consequently reduce the pain you feel on your feet.

The work boot is made with 70% leather and 30% nylon. It comes with a slip-resistant rubber outsole that gives superior traction on various terrains and surfaces. This will also help to minimize the pain on your heel and the arch of your foot because there is less strain on them as you step. The durable leather material combined with the performance nylon material on the upper part of the shoe ensures that this work boot can endure for many years, even when dealing with the toughest work environments.

The work boot comes with a breathable lining so your feet can stay fresh all day. It is a common complaint for most work boots to be uncomfortable when worn. However, this isn’t the case with this one because the moisture wicking material will keep your feet dry and comfortable. It also comes with a removable cushioned insert so you can adjust it to your liking.

7. Timberland PRO Men’s Rigmaster 8″ Waterproof Met Work Boot – View On Amazon

Another work boot model from Timberland that is suitable for those with plantar fasciitis is the PRO Men’s Rigmaster Waterproof Met Work Boot. Made from 100% leather, this work boot provides adequate support for your heels and the arch of your foot. This will help to alleviate any pain you are feeling on the heels and the arch especially after spending hours standing at the work site.

In addition to the supportive features for your heels and the arch of the foot, the Waterproof Met Work Boot from Timberland is also designed with breathable open cell polyurethane and rubber metatarsal guard. This particular feature ensures that your feet will stay comfortable and dry so you can focus on getting your work done!

The mid-high work boot is also equipped with a unique fingertip pull on feature so you can easily put it on. At the same time, the speed-lacing hardware and alloy safety toe provides the protection you need while working at the site. The mesh lining on this work boot comes with antimicrobial treatment so you never have to worry about odor.

8. Stanley Men’s Dredge Soft Toe Industrial and Construction Shoe – View On Amazon

The Stanley Men’s Dredge Soft Toe Industrial and Construction Shoe make the cut for the best work boots for plantar fasciitis. It is constructed with 100% leather material and comes with a rubber outsole, as is the standard for work boots to ensure a non-slip design. This shoe is made for all trades so you can use it confidently on any kinds of work environments and in various types of work surfaces.

If you have plantar fasciitis, you can be at ease knowing that you will get adequate support for your heels and arch when using this pair of work boots. It has a removable EVA footbed so you can provide extra cushioning and support with every step. This footbed also provides comfort to your feet, especially if your work requires you to stand for several hours per day.

The flexible rubber outsole is another important feature that will benefit those with plantar fasciitis. The flexible design puts less strain on your heels and arch when you walk, which helps to eliminate any pain or prevent it from becoming worse. The shoes are also lightweight so it is comfortable even when worn throughout the day. And with the choice of material and construction, this is an extremely durable pair of work boots.

9. Timberland PRO Men’s Boondock 6″ Waterproof Non-Insulated Work Boot – View On Amazon

The Timberland PRO Men’s Boondock Work Boot is one of the best-rated work boots in the market that is ideal for those with plantar fasciitis. This highly durable work boot is made with 100% leather material and is designed for optimum performance at the work site. Its reliable durability is one of its strongest features, thanks to its use of Ever-Guard leather. This leather material is reinforced with waterproof features and is built in with molded rubber toe protectors for added peace of mind. With all of these elements, you can rest assured that you will get an abrasion-resistant performance.

Another feature that makes this work boot stand out is the TPU outsole. This synthetic material provides resistance against oil, abrasion, and accidental slips. You can rest your worries knowing that you can get superior traction on a variety of surfaces.

An important feature that greatly benefits those with plantar fasciitis is its anti-fatigue technology. This type of technology is a staple with Timberland work boots. This comfort system was developed to absorb shock and to disperse energy to the foot. This will help to minimize pain on every step as it reduces impact on the heels and the arch of the foot. Thus, you can expect all-day support and comfort so your feet aren’t tired at the end of the day.

10. Justin Original Work Boots Men’s Double Comfort 4760 Work Boot – View On Amazon

The Justin Original Work Boots is designed for industrial and construction use and is suited for those with plantar fasciitis. If you are looking for a functional work boot that can provide support and protection while being stylish, this is what you need.

This work boot is made with 100% leather and is manufactured in the USA. This boot has an upper that measures 10 inches and is available in two colors: black and aged bark. This work boot comes with a non-steel toe and medium round toe welt. It is also equipped with a seven-layer double comfort system on the insole. Aside from the unmatched comfort, it also provides added durability to the shoes. Thus, your heel and arch is adequately supported to reduce impact with every step or when standing over an extended period of time. The outsole is made with polyurethane material so you can expect durability and proper traction even on low traction surfaces.

6 Must-Have Features of The Best Work Boots for Plantar Fasciitis

1. Shock Absorbing Midsoles

Shock absorbing midsoles are the first thing you need to look out for when looking for boots to help with your plantar fasciitis pain and discomfort. Shock absorption at the midsoles means less impact on the arch of your foot, which is one of the key places for pain when suffering from plantar fasciitis.

By reducing the amount of pressure your foot feels here when walking around on hard surfaces all day, you allow the ligaments that have become inflamed the opportunity to relax a little. Work boots for plantar fasciitis should always feature some form of shock absorbing midsoles or else the strain of being on your feet all day will worsen the condition, not better it.

2. Contoured & Cushioned Footbeds

Contoured and cushioned footbeds help with your pain by removing the stress you feel on the arch of your foot. When a footbed is contoured or cushioned, it follows the natural arch of your foot. That means your foot doesn’t have to adopt an unnatural position to fit into the work boots you’re using. The added support beneath your arch will also help make things more comfortable for you.

To reduce inflammation of your ligament, you need to lessen the stress on it. When you’re standing all day at work in work boots that don’t use contoured or cushioned footbeds, the arch in your foot is constantly forced to stretch and retract, which only agitates your plantar fascia ligament more. Work boots with contoured and cushioned footbeds give you the support you need to beat the pain you’re feeling.

3. Heel Stabilizers

It isn’t just the arch of your foot that can feel pain when you’re dealing with plantar fasciitis. Your heel can suffer a lot too, so you need some additional support from your work boots for plantar fasciitis. That’s where heel stabilizers come in.

Heel stabilizers work by providing additional support to your heel by reducing (or entirely eliminating if your work boots are very well made) the upwards movement of your heel within your footwear. This helps to reduce the amount of stress on your ligament. Remember, the plantar fascia ligament runs from your toes, through the arch, all the way back to your heel. So by reducing the amount of movement your heels are doing in your work boots, you reduce the amount of strain that’s put on that all important ligament overall.

4. Rounded & Shock Absorbing Heels

In a similar way to the heel stabilizers above, you can also reduce the amount of strain your heel feels in your boots by looking for work boots that have rounded or shock absorbing heels. This reduces the amount of force your heel feels each time you take a step, which is really important when you’re trying to keep your foot comfortable and pain-free.

Consider looking for boots with heels that are lower than the average, too. Tall heels, whether they’re shock absorbing or not, will add unnecessary strain on the plantar fascia ligament, causing more inflammation. So, lower, shock absorbing heels are the perfect combination here.

5. Safety Toes & Mesh Lining

So far, the features mentioned have you covered if your plantar fasciitis is flaring up in your heel or your arch, but what about your toes? Well, your toes rarely get strained in any work boots, but what they can experience is quite a lot of shock if something is dropped on them, which can make your ligament more uncomfortable. Safety toes will help you there, and are good practice whether or not you have plantar fasciitis.

Besides the safety toes, work boots with mesh lining make for a more comfortable wear in general so it’s a bit of a catch-all feature that’ll just make your foot more comfortable. It will support your whole foot, helping keep everything comfortable, including your plantar fascia ligament.

6. A Good Fit…

The last thing you need to look out for is simple: a good fit. It should be snug, and secure, without being tight. It’s also a good idea to look out for lace-up boots instead of zippers or pull-on boots. That’s because a lace-up work boot puts you in control of the fit – you can tighten it or loosen it as needed throughout the day to make you the most comfortable in that moment.

By having a good fit that’s secure and comfortable, you’ll A) be happier at work anyway because you’ll be less uncomfortable, and B) lessen the pain you’re feeling right now because the strain on your foot will be lessened as it will be positioned inside your boot exactly as it should be. Work boots for plantar fasciitis should first and foremost be a good fit – the other features listed above can all come after that.