Hey there! If you’re someone who suffers from plantar fasciitis, you know just how debilitating and frustrating this condition can be. The sharp, stabbing pain in your heel and arch first thing in the morning is enough to make you dread putting your feet on the floor. As the day goes on, the pain may lessen somewhat, but it’s always there, nagging at you with every step you take.
If this sounds like your reality, you’ve probably been on the hunt for a good pair of shoes that can provide relief and support for your poor, inflamed plantar fascia. And chances are, New Balance has come up in your search for the perfect kicks. But are New Balance shoes actually any good for plantar fasciitis? That’s what we’re going to explore today.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Before we dive into the specifics of New Balance and plantar fasciitis, let’s quickly go over what this condition is all about. The plantar fascia is a thick band of connective tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes. When this band becomes overstretched or torn, it can lead to inflammation and excruciating heel pain – a.k.a. plantar fasciitis.
There are a few key risk factors that can increase your chances of developing this frustrating condition, including:
- Being overweight or obese, which puts extra strain on your plantar fascia
- Having flat feet or high arches, which can cause an abnormal gait and stretching of the plantar fascia
- Wearing shoes with poor arch support or cushioning
- Sudden increases in physical activity, especially activities that involve a lot of impact or repetitive stress on the feet
Why New Balance Shoes are Good for Plantar Fasciitis
Now, onto the million-dollar question: Are New Balance shoes a good choice for plantar fasciitis sufferers? The short answer is: yes, many New Balance models can be an excellent option for those dealing with this painful condition.
Here’s a more in-depth look at why New Balance shoes are often recommended for plantar fasciitis.
Superior Arch Support and Motion Control
One of the primary reasons New Balance shoes are so highly regarded for plantar fasciitis is their exceptional arch support and motion control features. Many of their popular models, like the 928v3, 1540v3, and Fresh Foam Hierro v6, are designed with sturdy, reinforced arches that help prevent overpronation (excessive inward rolling of the feet).
This extra arch support and motion control can be a game-changer for plantar fasciitis sufferers, as it helps to distribute your body weight more evenly across your feet, reducing the strain and tension on your plantar fascia.
By keeping your feet properly aligned and supported, New Balance shoes can help alleviate the inflammation and pain associated with this condition.
Cushioned Midsoles and Footbeds
In addition to their stellar arch support, New Balance shoes are also known for their plush, well-cushioned midsoles and footbeds.
Models like the Fresh Foam 1080v11 and Fresh Foam Roav utilize New Balance’s proprietary Fresh Foam technology, which provides responsive cushioning that adapts to your stride and absorbs shock with every footfall.
This high level of cushioning is crucial for plantar fasciitis sufferers, as it helps to reduce the impact and stress on your feet and plantar fascia. By absorbing shock and providing a soft, comfortable ride, New Balance shoes can help minimize the strain and inflammation that often exacerbates plantar fasciitis pain.
Wide Toe Boxes and Roomy Fits
Another standout feature of many New Balance shoes is their generous toe boxes and overall roomy fits. This extra wiggle room for your toes can be a lifesaver for those with plantar fasciitis, as it helps to prevent friction and rubbing that can lead to further irritation and discomfort.
Plus, if your plantar fasciitis has caused any swelling or inflammation in your feet, the wide toe boxes and roomy fits of New Balance shoes can accommodate that extra volume without feeling tight or constricting. This can be a major relief compared to cramming your swollen feet into rigid, narrow shoes.
Popular New Balance Models for Plantar Fasciitis
Now that we’ve covered some of the key features that make New Balance shoes a solid choice for plantar fasciitis, let’s take a look at some of their most popular and highly recommended models for this condition:
- New Balance 928v3: This walking shoe is a longtime favorite among plantar fasciitis sufferers, thanks to its superior motion control, cushioned footbed, and roomy toe box.
- New Balance 1540v3: Another top-notch motion control shoe, the 1540v3 offers maximum support and stability for overpronators with plantar fasciitis.
- New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6: With its plush Fresh Foam midsole and sturdy medial post, the Hierro v6 provides ample cushioning and pronation control.
- New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v11: The pinnacle of New Balance’s cushioning technology, the 1080v11 delivers a supremely soft, responsive ride that can take the pressure off your plantar fascia.
Of course, it’s always a good idea to get properly fitted for your New Balance shoes at a reputable running or athletic store. Their knowledgeable staff can analyze your gait and foot type to ensure you get the right model and size for your specific needs and plantar fasciitis condition.
FAQs About New Balance Shoes and Plantar Fasciitis
To wrap things up, here are some frequently asked questions (and answers!) about using New Balance shoes to help manage plantar fasciitis:
Q: Do I need a special insole or orthotic with my New Balance shoes?
A: While many New Balance shoes come with excellent built-in arch support and cushioning, some plantar fasciitis sufferers may benefit from adding a custom orthotic or over-the-counter insole for extra support and shock absorption.
Q: How long do New Balance shoes typically last for plantar fasciitis?
A: The lifespan of your New Balance shoes will depend on factors like your activity level, weight, and the severity of your plantar fasciitis. However, most experts recommend replacing your shoes every 300-500 miles (or roughly every 6 months) to ensure you’re getting adequate support and cushioning.
Q: Are there any specific New Balance models to avoid with plantar fasciitis?
A: While New Balance makes many excellent shoes for plantar fasciitis, you’ll generally want to steer clear of their minimalist or barefoot-style models, as these lack the robust cushioning and support that plantar fasciitis sufferers need.
Q: Can wearing the wrong shoes make plantar fasciitis worse?
A: Absolutely. Wearing shoes with little to no arch support, cushioning, or motion control can exacerbate plantar fasciitis by putting excessive strain on your plantar fascia. This is why investing in a quality, supportive pair of New Balance shoes is so important.
Q: Should I wear my New Balance shoes all the time with plantar fasciitis?
A: While it’s crucial to wear your supportive New Balance shoes during any weight-bearing activities, you may want to give your feet a break from them when you’re just lounging around the house. Going barefoot or wearing supportive sandals or slippers can help reduce pressure on your plantar fascia when you’re not being active.
conclusion
So, there you have it – a comprehensive deep dive into whether New Balance shoes are a good choice for those suffering from plantar fasciitis. With their superior arch support, cushioning, and roomy fits, many New Balance models can be an excellent investment for managing this painful condition. Just be sure to get properly fitted, replace your shoes regularly, and don’t be afraid to add extra insoles or orthotics for customized comfort and support.
Here’s to finding long-lasting relief from plantar fasciitis pain – one comfortable, supportive step at a time!