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Plantar Fasciitis can dramatically take the edge off your gaming performance if not looked into urgently. While getting the right shoes for the court can help alleviate its effects, this can be a bit daunting if you don’t know what to look for. Lucky for you, I have already done the heavy lifting to help you find the best basketball shoes for Plantar Fasciitis.
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Our Top Basketball Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
After intensive research, testing, and analyzing various types of shoes, I have come up with the four top shoes for plantar Fasciitis. I found these recommendations to pack essential features that make them ideal for this condition.
NIKE KD 14
After plenty of research and testing, I’ve found that the NIKE KD 14, Kevin’s Durant 14th signature sneaker comes in a lightweight construction and a number of innovative features that makes the top shoes for plantar fasciitis.
The KD 14 features a full-length air-filled cushion which separates the heel and forefoot to ease the pressure on the feet as you move along. This also helps to increase flexibility to ensure you do not suffer back pains after the game.
This also gives you stability while transitioning so that you get enough court feeling. The shoe has nice traction and you will be able to play effectively even in unfavorable situations.
The NIKE KD 14 features a single–layer fly weave upper which is stable and flexible to enhance your movement as you play. The bounce flywire cables also increase your flexibility.
The KD 14 provides a very snug fit, making it perfect for support. This is ideal for players with plantar Fasciitis since it is a low top shoe, although it does not wrap around your ankles well enough.
The upper part of KD 14 consists of a smooth and light fabric that enhances air circulation into your feet to avoid discomfort. It is really lightweight and does not exert pressure on your feet as you play.
So, if you are looking for comfortable shoes that will help keep Plantar Fasciitis from standing in the way of your passion for basketball, I think the KD 14 will be a really great choice.
Features
- Lightweight and soft
- Flywire technology which enhances flexibility
- Zoom Air-filled cushion to reduce pressure on your feet
- Rubber outsole to enhance grip
- Multi-direction traction pattern
What I Like
- Provides maximum flexibility
- Very comfortable and stylish
- ILace-up closure
- Smooth and breathable upper material
- Very stable and supportive
What I Don’t Like
- Only covers the ankle partially
- Not durable as other models
Adidas Explosive Flash
The Adidas Explosive Flash will give you a complete length energy-returning boost to help you jump. These shoes represent one of the best launches made by Adidas in 2007. Since then, the shoes many people have invariably praised these as some of the best basketball shoes.
The shoes have a very supportive upper part, a seamless fused mesh top design with many areas of support, and stretches to make it fit a variety of feet types. The mesh wraps around your feet to provide enigmatic support. It is also strong and durable to save you the task of replacing your shoes repeatedly.
To cater to players with plantar Fasciitis, Adidas added strong cushioning to make it comfortable while reducing the impact on your feet. Adidas basketball shoes are famous for their unbeatable comfort.
These ones too stand out with their heel to toe cushioning. Just like most products in the Explosives series, these shoes got my attention with their responsiveness and bounce while playing basketball
The shoes offer an enigmatic grip, on a clean court the sole stick like glue so that you don’t strain your feet, a factor that makes them ideal for plantar fasciitis patients.
Overall, the Adidas Performance Crazy Explosive fit your feet like socks, and they’re incredibly comfortable. They consist of light and soft mesh, which makes them also fairly lightweight, easy to play basketball and run around with.
Features
- Synthetic upper
- Rubber sole
- Cushioning offers extreme stability
- Heel insert and mesh tongue for ventilation
- Textile upper for durability
What I Like
- Perfect fitting
- Impressive traction
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- Extremely soft upper
What I Do Not Like
- Not suitable for outdoor courts
- Imported
- adidas
Adidas Crazylight Boost Low 2016
The Adidas Crazylight Boost Low 2016 are lightweight with a low top to suit Plantar Fasciitis players. Just like their name suggests, these shoes are very light with a bold upper look. Since their launch, the Crazylight Boost Low 2016 has grown to be a favorite of most basketball players with plantar fasciitis.
Their traction pattern repels debris that clogs on your shoes at times. The sole uses the continental rubber, which will provide you with an optimum grip to ensure that you do not slip and fall. While you play, you will not worry over your shoes trapping dirt, which will save much time and energy of wiping your shoes.
Crazylight boost low features, a full-length boost, which will give you maximum responsiveness you need while playing basketball. This shoe grip makes it the most effective basketball shoe for players with plantar fasciitis in the market.
However, the crazylight boost does not fit all sizes. That is why I advise you to fit the shoe before buying. They feature a full forefoot to suit players with wide feet.
This makes them comfortable as you play since they don’t hold your feet very tightly. They also feature thick leases so that they do not loosen up when you are playing.
The cushion is also well placed; you feel the softness in every step. The soft cushion reduces pressure on your feet, which is vital for players with Plantar Fasciitis.
Finally, if you are looking for comfortable, lightweight basketball shoes, the Adidas Crazylight Boost Low is the perfect choice for you.
Features
- Synthetic and textile upper for comfort
- Molded heel for a perfect fit
- Cushioning for maximum comfort
- Incredibly light
- Rubber sole for optimum grip
What I Like
- Lightweight
- Easy to play with
- Great traction
- Traction pattern repels debris
- Full-length boost
- Great impact protection
What I Don’t Like
- Bad lockdown
- Not good for slim feet
- boost's energy-returning properties keep every step charged with an endless supply of light, fast...
- Jacquard synthetic and textile upper for ultimate comfort
- Molded heel collar piece for perfect fit
Under Armor Curry 3
The Under Armor Curry 3 is Stephen Curry’s third signature model. They offer unparalleled support and control in a super lightweight package. The shoes have made a name for themselves so much that you can hardly talk of basketball shoes for plantar fasciitis patients without them popping up.
This is because the pair boasts of a blend of features that makes it a good fit for this condition. They feature a synthetic threadborne on the upper part, which includes a carbon shrank for maximum stability. The high-intensity thread will provide you with an excellent fit to keep your feet in position while increasing the lockdown quotient.
These shoes come with a herringbone traction that makes them ideal for players with plantar Fasciitis and any other type of basketball player looking for unrivaled traction. In fact, this has been a major selling point for Under Armor’s Curry Series.
I should also mention that the shoes possess an ortholite insole which will provide you with excellent impact protection and fantastic comfort. This is one of the primary reasons why I recommend it to players suffering from plantar Fasciitis.
The Under Armor Curry 3 possesses robust padding throughout the rear part, which makes your heel feel solid while providing proper support and comfort. The padding helps to ease the impact on your back as you play.
The antifoam integrated into curry three modes, molds accurately into your feet in a way that makes you feel like you are stepping on a firm cushion. This is important for players suffering from plantar since it enhances flexibility hence easing the pressure on your waist area. With the Under Armor Curry 3, you remain comfortable and effective in your basket court.
Unlike the previous shoes, Under Armor has changed the rubber sole in Curry 3 giving the outsole a more tenacious grip. The pattern has been enhanced to ensure that your footwear is firm enough even when playing on a harsh court.
Features
- Rubber soles
- Well-padded for comfort
- Unrivaled traction
- Breathable upper mesh
- Ortholite sole
- Firm cushioning
What I Like
- Comes in a variety of color options
- Provides good support
- Comfortable and nice fitting
- Really Flexible
- Superb traction
- Fits your feet perfectly
- Breathable for proper air circulation while playing
What I Do Not Like
- Not durable as other models
- sku=1298308-001-9
Adidas Originals Pro Bounce 2018 Low
Despite being made in 2018, the Adidas Originals Pro Bounce 2018 Low still is considered among the best basketball shoes for plantar fasciitis. The low design also makes it great for daily use and they’re best used when you play the game regularly.
What’s great about old basketball shoes is that they are commonly sold lower than what they were used to (except for rare basketball collectible shoes).
When choosing the size, you can go exactly your size or half size up. These shoes can fit almost all types of foot shape. These shoes are also great for plantar fasciitis because the distance of the shaft and the arch is suitable and comfortable for people with plantar fasciitis.
The Pro Bounce has a bounce cushioning system that helps with reducing foot strain and enhancing your flexibility and jumping power.
It has enough comfort and breathability thanks to its mesh upper. It makes your feet less sweaty and they’re not uncomfortable or make your feet hot.
Another great thing about the Pro Bounce is that they have a variety of colorways so you can sport different looks depending on your preference. Most like to go with the standard neutral colors. There are also bright colors that might match your team’s color.
There’s just one downside to these shoes though. You may experience a bit of sliding. Why? Because the toe box is long and narrow which can leave space at the front if you have short toes.
Overall, a great pair of basketball shoes for plantar fasciitis and looking for that extra bounce.
Features
- Rubber sole
- Regular fit
- Lace closure
- Textile upper
- Locked-down feel
- Donovan Mitchell signature shoes
What I Like
- Unique mesh upper design makes it comfortable and breathable to wear
- Durable build quality which explains why some people still wear it today
- Variety of colorways so you can choose what you like
What I Do Not Like
- Long toe box
- Takes some time to get used to
Nike Lebron Witness IV
The Nike Lebron Witness IV is an alternative for people who don’t want to spend too much for a pair of Lebrons.
Lebron’s signature shoes tend to have features that help with plantar fasciitis thanks to how massively built Lebron is.
If you compare it to the likes of Lebron 17s and 18s, of course you won’t get the same level of performance. For basketball shoes that’s targeted for lower markets, the Lebron Witness IV is perfect for plantar fasciitis.
It has two visible Zoom air units in the forefoot with a basic upper with textiles and fuse overlays. The shoes also feature external TPU heel counters for added protection. You also have pull tabs at the tongue and heel to fit your feet easily.
When it comes to traction, it has a similar traction pattern as the Lebron 17. The toe to midfoot has excellent traction and can even work in dusty courts as long as you wipe it regularly. However, the heel portion doesn’t have the same level of traction as the toe and midfoot. These may be bad when you’re playing on defense.
The outsole and traction are also great for outdoor use. In fact, it might be better used outdoors because you won’t notice the difference in traction.
Overall, if you want to own some Lebrons and are dealing with plantar fasciitis, the Lebron Witness IV is a great option for you.
Features
- Rubber sole
- Lightweight Phylon midsole
- Zoom air units in the forefoot
- External TPU heel counter
What I Like
- Durable rubber outsole
- Two Zoom Air units for extra bounce performance
- Pocket-friendly option for Lebron signature shoes
What I Do Not Like
- Inconsistent traction on the heel area
- Material quality isn’t premium
What to Look For in Basketball Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar Fasciitis is a special condition that requires special kinds of shoes. If you are playing basketball and suffer from this illness, you will need to do more than merely shopping around in order to get a pair that makes you a better player and cushions you against this condition. While doing my research, I prioritized the following features in order to find the most pertinent basketball shoes for Plantar Fasciitis.
| Best Features | Importance |
|---|---|
| Great arch support | Promotes a good alignment, which reduces tension on the heel |
| Great cushioning | Provides shock absorption, which reduces pain |
| Great stability | Prevents sudden movements and further damage to your plantar fasciitis |
| Great traction | Prevents slips, which could further damage your plantar fasciitis |
Toe Box
For players with Plantar Fasciitis, you should purchase wide toe shoes. Wide toe shoes will help in relieving the pain associated with the condition. When your toes are at liberty to spread apart, you tend to be more stable and reduce the chances of falling when you play.
If you are suffering from plantar, you should never buy shoes that you force to fit into your feet. On the contrary, you should let your toes spread naturally.
When your toe box is too tight, your toes will be squeezed and this will increase the pain on top of that caused by plantar Fasciitis. Make sure you buy basketball shoes that perfectly fit you. The better fit the shoes provide, the more comfortable they will be.
Cushioning
This is an essential factor when it comes to basketball players with Plantar Fasciitis. Proper cushioning provides comfort to your feet when you are running or jumping. Ensure that your heel area has more cushioning to minimize impact and relieve pain when you are playing. The heel cushion also reduces the chances of injury.
Removable Insole
Most of the pain of plantar Fasciitis originates from stepping directly on the bottom of your feet. You will need a shoe with a stable sole that offers proper support.
Before buying shoes for plantar Fasciitis, you should make you choose the ones with a removable insole. Why? The reason is that this characteristic is essential for support and comfort.
If your insole wears out, you can get new ones from a trusted brand. Insoles are as crucial as cushioning. However, you can customize your insole to suit your needs, especially if you feel that they are not comfortable enough.
Arch Support
Players suffering from plantar Fasciitis should choose basketball shoes that have an arch build design. The arch ensures that your weight is distributed evenly on your feet.
When you roll your foot as you jump, the arch should reduce pressure on your foot and protect your foot.
However, if your shoes have a high arch, your feet will not roll and may not absorb as much pressure.
It is also important to note that you should not choose shoes with a low arch if you have a flat foot. This is because it will only increase your plantar fasciitis pain. Instead, you should get shoes with a thick and robust arch.
Ankle Support
When you are suffering from plantar Fasciitis, you tend to change your gait to control the pain. This can make you walk unnaturally, especially if you are wearing shoes that allow you to modify your pace.
When you are buying shoes for plantar fasciitis basketball players, you should be cautious about how much they can support your ankle. You should buy shoes that keep your ankle locked.
I recommend that you squeeze the heel in the shoe to determine whether it is soft or substantial; it should lock and cradle the arch.
Related Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the best basketball shoes for plantar fasciitis.
What Is the Best Shoe Brand for Plantar Fasciitis?
There are some brands that offer a lot of comfort and support such as ASICS, New Balance, and Hoka One One. However, how they fit can highly depend on your feet’ structure and size. Therefore, you will need to try them to ensure they fit correctly.
How Do NBA Players Deal With Plantar Fasciitis?
NBA players usually have their technical staff treat them with ice, stretching exercises, and taping. However, if the pain doesn’t go away and they feel too uncomfortable playing, they are sent home to rest. Sometimes, plantar fasciitis takes weeks, or even months to fully heal.
Can I Still Play Sport With Plantar Fasciitis?
Yes, it is possible to play sports while experiencing plantar fasciitis; however, it is important to handle the situation properly. You will need to use supportive shoes and do exercises that help your feet muscles to heal. However, if the pain worsens, you will need to quit playing for a bit until you fully recover. If you don’t, you may suffer long-term consequences.
Conclusion
Before buying any type of shoes, I always recommend you do your research thoroughly to determine which type suits you best. Remember to consider important factors such as cushioning, support arch, ankle support, insole, and toe box size. Hopefully, this guide will help you make a better, informed decision.
