Remember when “dad shoes” were a joke? Now they’re orthopedic heroes. The chunky New Balance 990 series, for example, was originally designed for serious runners but became a hip-hop fashion staple. Even Kanye West rocked them. Today, that same retro silhouette offers the arch support your plantar fascia craves.
In Japan, many people take off their shoes indoors and practice “barefoot walking” on tatami mats to strengthen foot muscles. While that’s lovely, don’t try it with active fasciitis—you’re not a samurai. Instead, channel that zen energy into finding shoes that mimic that natural support without the pain.
Fun fact: the world’s first athletic shoe with arch support was created in 1925 by a German cobbler named Adolf “Adi” Dassler. Yes, the Adi of Adidas. He started in his mother’s laundry room. Sometimes, comfort begins in humble places.
Top 8 Best Running Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis Women Of 2026 - The Good
