Best Running Shoes for Supination and Plantar Fasciitis in 2023
Supination most often affects runners with high arches. Sometimes called underpronation, it’s common to see runners put most of their weight on the outer edge of their foot instead of on the arch.
Along with supination often comes plantar fasciitis, inflammation and pain in the large ligament under the foot. It’s sore and uncomfortable, and although the main symptoms show up first thing in the morning, it can affect your running during the day.
Choosing the best shoes for supination and plantar fasciitis isn’t difficult if you know what to look for.
We recommend the Hoka One One Clifton 9. It’s a highly cushioned neutral shoe, with excellent arch support and shock absorption.
But finding the right one for you and your feet is important, so read through the full list and see which one suits you!
Top 3 Best and Favorites
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Best Overall
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Best Overall
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Hoka One One Clifton 9
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Top Everyday Trainer
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Top Everyday Trainer
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Brooks Ghost 15
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Best for Wide Feet
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Best for Wide Feet
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New Balance 1080v12
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CHECK MEN’S PRICECHECK WOMEN’S PRICE |
Best Overall
1. Hoka One One Clifton 9
The Clifton 9 is plush and super comfortable. The max cushion provides excellent support and shock absorption.
What We Like
The Clifton 9 provides a generous amount of soft, comfy cushion underfoot.
While the full-length EVA midsole feels light and cushy, it’s not the best for speedwork. But it absorbs shock effectively to protect the plantar fascia from stress, especially in the 29mm heel.
As well as doing the shock absorbing for you, the Clifton 9 offers excellent arch support. Between the support and the cushion, this shoe is pretty much the ideal option for supinators who struggle with plantar fasciitis, but also for supinators who want to avoid developing it.
At just 8.8 grams, it adds hardly any weight to the foot. Hoka’s meta-rocker technology adds a nice roll to the ride.
The upper is plush and hugs the foot. The tongue, though, is thiccccck and may cause the shoe to run warm in summer. Also, the high elf ear can be nice and cushioning for the Achilles, but it may chafe when wearing short socks.
Why We Like It
Extreme cushioned comfort and shock absorption, plus strong arch support. The perfect recipe for a pain-free supinating foot!
What’s New
Hoka has made two significant changes from the 8 to the 9. Firstly, an extra layer has been added to the upper, which helps with lockdown and gives a better fit, especially in the heel.
Also, more rubber has been added to the outsole, to increase the durability of the shoe. The midsole weighs slightly less (about 15%) than the last version.
PROS:
- Excellent impact absorption
- Shoe has great arch support
- Smooth, rolling transition
- Plush, supportive upper
CONS:
- Thick tongue may cause the shoe to run a little warm
- Not suitable for speedwork
Top Everyday Trainer
2. Brooks Ghost 15
It’s no secret that the Brooks Ghost is a favorite of many runners. The 15’s neutral base, balanced cushioning, and wide base make it great for supination and plantar fasciitis.
What We Like
The Brooks Ghost 15 has a wide base that’s ideal for supinators, as it’s hard to roll an ankle in these shoes, despite its serious stack height (nearly 34mm in the heel, with the insole).
Full-length DNA Loft foam in the midsole offers a nicely balanced ride that absorbs shock but doesn’t get too mushy soft. You can easily run long distances or shorter, speedier bursts in this shoe.
A plush upper, ankle collar, and tongue make the shoe very comfy. However, there may be some heel slip, despite the thick ankle collar.
32%-thicker rubber on the outsole’s segmented crash pad not only offers great traction but also adds a bit more shock absorption.
Why We Like It
It’s very well cushioned without being too soft and has a wide base, making it very stable and comfortable.
What’s New
The 15 now uses DNA Loft foam throughout the entire midsole. Updated 3D Print tech on the lacing system helps the wearer to get a more dialed-in fit of the upper. That’s about it!
PROS:
- Wide base design
- Well-balanced cushioning
- Segmented Crash Pad provides softer landings
- Great for daily runs
CONS:
- Heel slip is common in this shoe
Best for Wide Feet
3. New Balance 1080v12
Wide-footers will appreciate the spaciousness of the 1080v12. It’s also a super comfortable shoe and looks good!
What We Like
The 1080v12 is available in multiple widths, so runners with all types of wide feet will be able to find a match.
As you can see just from looking at the shoe, the cushioning is comfortable and will protect the plantar fascia nicely.
Another excellent feature for plantar fasciitis is the softer heel, which offers excellent impact absorption. In the forefoot, firmer foam helps you toe off as you run.
A very flexible upper and unique Ultra Heel design make the shoe look amazing, but some runners might struggle to really lock the shoe down on their foot, which could lead to heel slippage.
Why We Like It
The combination of a wide platform, multiple width options, and lovely cushioning in this shoe make it great for supinators and plantar fasciitis.
What’s New
Not much has changed between the 10 and the 11. A new pattern on the upper makes it a bit more stretchy, allowing for more foot movement. The heel counter has been reduced in size to remove the chance of Achilles chafing.
PROS:
- Various widths available
- Breathable upper molds to your foot shape
- Midsole foam provides bouncy energy return
- Heel cup and padded collar keep your foot locked in
CONS:
- Difficult to get a good lockdown, leading to heel slippage
Best for Road Running
4. On Cloudswift
On shoes just look unique, with their unusual cushioning design. Their shock absorption properties are excellent for all runners, but particularly for those with plantar fasciitis.
What We Like
On’s unique shock-absorbing cushion helps to minimize plantar fascia strain and cushion the feet. The Cloud Pods underneath the foot compress and expand as you run, offering both exceptional shock absorption and great energy return.
The upper is soft but still supportive, and the silicone cage around the midfoot helps to get a really great lockdown around the foot.
Along with the Helion foam providing notably high arch support, this helps supinators to keep their feet in the right position, preventing rolling or leaning that would aggravate the underneath of the foot.
It also sports a meta-rocker design, which allows the wearer to move more efficiently without placing extra strain on the feet.
Why We Like It
The cloud pods take a lot of the vibration that would otherwise aggravate the plantar fascia. When paired with the light, bouncy cushion, this neutral shoe is protective, comfy, and has a bit of pop.
PROS:
- Supportive, sock-like upper
- Silicone cage provides gentle midfoot support
- Excellent energy return
- Plenty of room in the toe box
CONS:
- Small stones and dirt can get stuck in the Cloud Pods
Best Nike
5. Nike Air Zoom Vomero 16
Nike is famous for paying close attention to their athletes and creating shoes based on their needs. The Vomero is a sleek-looking shoe that offers everything you need for supination and plantar fasciitis.
What We Like
Nike fans will enjoy the Vomero’s sleek feeling and impressive cushioning. Medium-soft padding in the heel helps to prevent the plantar fascia from being injured. The Zoom Air bag in the forefoot makes it firmer, with a nice bit of a bite on the toe-off.
Supinators will appreciate the unique midsole design of the Vomero 16. In the core, soft ZoomX foam provides shock absorption and comfort. But around the edge, there’s a rim made of firmer EVA foam, which goes a long way towards preventing that outward roll of the foot.
The 16 is heavier than the 15, which is a bit of a downside. It also has a bit of a stiff tongue, which can become annoying for some.
Why We Like It
Nike air technology really makes the cushioning feel great in this shoe. It’s everything supinators need, with a bit of bounce too!
What’s New
The Vomero 15 and 16 are close to identical. Nothing has changed in the midsole or outsole. The biggest change is the removal of the Flywire from the 15 and an addition of a midfoot cage. A thicker tongue is also new.
PROS:
- Dual-density midsole with supination support
- Springy “pop” during toe-offs
- Great as easy-day running shoe
- Durable, full rubber outsole
CONS:
- Stiff tongue may cause some annoyance
Most Cushioning
6. Hoka One One Bondi 8
The Hoka One One Bondi 8 is one of the most cushioned you can find. Its shock absorbing comfort is perfect for plantar fasciitis and underpronation.
What We Like
The enormous chunk of EVA cushion in the Bondi 8 does a great job of absorbing impact as the foot lands. It’s not super soft, though – the midsole is surprisingly firm.
It’s also not just underfoot that’s cushioned. A thick memory foam heel collar and padded tongue ensure that your whole foot is surrounded by cushioning, upping the comfort of the shoe quite significantly.
As if you needed any more cushioning, a thick Ortholite insole rests on top of the EVA foam, adding an extra element of comfort to the Bondi 8.
An internal heel cup keeps the foot nicely locked down, for better stability. A meta-rocker sole helps to facilitate forward movement without a whole lot of strain on the ligaments and muscles of the feet.
It comes in wide widths so there’s an option for everyone, but be aware that it runs a little narrow in the forefoot area.
Why We Like It
It’s really hard to beat 33mm of cushion in the heel and 29mm in the forefoot. Along with the meta-rocker, the shoe is super easy for supinators to wear.
What’s New
Only a few updates have been made on the Bondi 8. They’re mostly aesthetic, but the important updates include better breathability and a more stable heel lock.
PROS:
- Thick layer of soft foam underfoot
- Internal heel cup provides a secure locked-in feel
- Thick Ortholite insole for added comfort
- Great for easy runs, long runs, or being on your feet all day
CONS:
- Runs slightly narrow in the forefoot
- Heavy, at 10.6 ounces
Best Lightweight
7. Mizuno Wave Rider 25 Waveknit
Mizuno often takes a back seat to the bigger name brands, but their shoes provide an excellent combo of comfortable cushioning and bounce.
What We Like
Weighing in at under 10 ounces, the Mizuno Wave Rider 25 Waveknit is light for a shoe with a huge cushion and a plate in it. The plate provides some energy return and adds torsional stability, which makes it harder for supinators to roll their feet.
As for the cushion, the Enerzy foam now stretches the length of the shoe. But the impressive part is that it’s 36mm high in the heel and 24mm in the forefoot.
This offers exceptional shock absorption, especially in the heel, but can make the ride a touch wobbly for those who may not be used to such a high heel. There is a padded heel counter, which helps to keep the foot even more stable.
Between the foam and the plate, the ride is smooth and has a minor spring to it. The shoe is definitely better for easy runs or long distances, rather than speed. The impressively-covered hard-wearing rubber outsole should last for ages.
The Waveknit upper looks cool, and is very breathable. It’s also made of recycled materials, just as a bonus.
Why We Like It
It offers excellent torsional stability and cushioning, especially in the heel. Supinators with plantar fasciitis can expect their pain to be eased – in a lightweight package!
What’s New
According to Mizuno, the latest version of the shoe is 17% lighter than the previous version and has 15% more energy return. It features Enerzy foam running the full length of the midsole and more flexibility in the forefoot than last time.
PROS:
- Modern, lighter design
- Well-padded heel counter eliminates heel slippage
- Smooth, springy, and comfortable ride
- Hard-wearing rubber outsole
CONS:
- The high stack height and heel-to-toe drop may feel wobbly for supinators
Top Shoe for Trail Running
8. Brooks Cascadia 16
A hybrid between a trail running shoe and a hiking boot, the Brooks Cascadia 16 features both comfort and stability. The best of both worlds!
What We Like
The Cascadia is built for comfort on the trails. You no longer have to worry about rough terrain aggravating your plantar fasciitis, or turning your ankle as you cover uneven ground.
DNA Loft cushioning in the midsole provides great impact absorption and comfortable cushioning that keeps your feet fresh for hours. You can be on your feet all day in these shoes and it won’t cause any pain.
A wide toe box allows plenty of room to keep the toes safe. There’s also a rock plate between the midsole and outsole to protect the plantar fascia from hazards underfoot. The plate also prevents the shoe from twisting and possibly causing you to roll your foot.
Trailtack rubber on the outsole offers excellent grip. You won’t need to worry about slipping and hurting your feet. Open grooves in the outsole offer good flexibility.
There’s also a handy gaiter attachment on the back of the shoe.
Why We Like It
The Cascadia is well cushioned and will protect the sensitive underfoot on any terrain.
The rock plate not only protects the plantar fascia, but also prevents supinators’ shoes from twisting, stopping that foot roll.
What’s New
The 16 has lost just over an ounce in weight. It’s also a wider fit than the 15.
The biggest change is in the midsole, which was BioMoGo DNA foam in the 15 and is now DNA Loft in the 16. It also has an extra few mm stack height.
PROS:
- Roomy toe box
- Durable, grippy outsole
- Built for all-day comfort
CONS:
- The Cascadia runs warm
Best for Triathlons
9. Asics Noosa Tri 13
The Noosa Tri 13 is a bold shoe! Along with its fun design, it offers excellent features that help keep the foot safe and comfortable.
What We Like
The Noosa 13 features a fairly rigid sole, which is not only excellent for supinators but also adds some speed to the shoe. It doesn’t sacrifice cushioning, though, with a softer Flytefoam midsole for added comfort.
There are some tri-specific features that triathletes will enjoy. Although the shoe comes with standard laces, it includes an extra set of quick laces to make transitions easy and speedy.
Sizable pull tabs on the heel make it simple to get off when you need to switch. On the tongue, there’s a patch of grippy material that helps you to pull the shoe on quickly too.
It’s extremely breathable and remains lightweight, at under 8 ounces per shoe. It also has a slight rocker, which takes even more strain off the underside of the foot.
To be clear, these shoes can easily be worn by runners who aren’t triathletes. Whether you’re a casual runner or just looking for something super funky, the Noosa fits the bill.
Why We Like It
It manages to be rigidly supportive and highly cushioned at the same time. Perfect for supporting supinating feet on rough, uneven terrain.
What’s New
The 13 has taken a huge weight cut, about an ounce. Where the 12 had an 8mm heel-to-toe drop, the 13 now has a 5mm drop. The tongue has also been redesigned to include a grippy material for transitions.
PROS:
- Comes with an extra pair of quick laces
- Breathable, seamless, and lightweight upper
- Soft and responsive midsole cushioning
- Available in bold, bright colorways
CONS:
- No plain colored designs
Top Wide Toe Box
10. Altra Paradigm 7
Altra’s unique shape and zero-drop platform make it stable and protective. If you need more space in the forefoot, this is the shoe for you.
What We Like
The FootShape toe box offers plenty of space without feeling clunky. Your toes will be free and safe, no matter where you run, and it can accommodate a bit of swelling.
So will your painful plantar fascia, with 30mm of EGO Max foam underfoot. The zero-drop platform may take some getting used to if you haven’t tried it before, but it prevents excess pressure from being placed anywhere on the foot.
It also does a good job of absorbing vibration from shock, keeping that ligament safe and free from jarring. InnovArch technology also keeps high arches perfectly in place, lowering the chances of your foot rolling. GuideRails add rearfoot stability.
Why We Like It
It offers ample room for your toes (swollen or normal) and has impressive cushioning while supporting the arch extremely well.
What’s New
The new EGO Max midsole compound makes the shoe much springier than the 5. InnovArch tech is also a new innovation, and a welcome one for stability.
The GuideRails have been tweaked a little so they only activate when necessary. There are also flexible grooves in the outsole to allow for more natural foot movement.
PROS:
- Bouncier, cushier ride
- Guide Rail and InnovArch enhance stability and support
- Footshape toe box has plenty of wiggle room
- Zero-drop profile
CONS:
- Not suitable for speedwork
Buyers Guide – Running Shoes for Supination and Plantar Fasciitis
Cushioning
A high level of cushioning is necessary to support the feet, for both supination and plantar fasciitis.
Those who supinate have reduced shock absorbing abilities in their feet, so the shoe needs to provide that. Heel cushioning is particularly important for plantar fasciitis.
Support
The good news is that you don’t need a stability shoe for either supination or plantar fasciitis. You do, however, need a shoe that’s going to keep your foot stable and prevent it from twisting.
Some motion control aspects may be helpful, especially for rearfoot stability. But the most important stability feature should be arch support. People with high arches should find a shoe that offers excellent arch support so they’re supported from all the right angles.
Weight
A lightweight shoe is the best option. Most running shoes come in at under 10 ounces. The heavier the shoe, the more strain on your feet as you walk or run.
Although it may not seem like a big thing, even just an ounce or two extra requires the muscles, tendons, and ligaments to work harder to lift your foot on every step. Go light, and your feet will thank you!
Durability
Nobody wants their shoes to start deteriorating after just a few wears! Durability is just as important as other factors.
Make sure they’re crafted of high-quality materials and the stitching or gluing looks good. If you can’t find out what materials they’re made of on the manufacturer’s website, they’re probably not the best choice!
Breathability
Having your feet stuck in a stuffy shoe doesn’t help anything! Your shoe should be breathable and allow air to flow through it easily so your feet don’t get damp and slimy.
Comfort
If you aren’t comfortable in your shoes, the chances are high of you altering your gait to find comfort. Make sure the shoes you choose are comfortable!
If you’re shopping online, do your best to get a good idea of what kind of arch support works for you, what size toe box you like, and if you need a wider-than-average shoe to feel comfortable.
It may be a good idea to visit a nearby shoe shop, get your measurements taken, and try on a few different shoes to figure it out. That way, you have a much better idea of what to look for when shopping online.
FAQs
Wondering about the best shoes for supination and plantar fasciitis? Here are some of the answers you may be looking for.
What Is Supination?
Supination is when you walk mostly on the outer edge of your foot. Your arches hardly touch the ground, and your foot tends to roll outwards. It’s often associated with those who have high arches.
Can Supination Cause Plantar Fasciitis?
The motion of walking on the edge of the foot can place strain on the plantar fascia, which is the ligament that connects the heel to the toes. This may lead to plantar fasciitis.
It doesn’t mean everyone who supinates will get plantar fasciitis, though. But if you don’t have it now, choosing a pair of shoes that will support your foot properly can save you from developing it later!
What Type of Shoe is Best for Supination?
There are no support shoes designed specifically for supinators, so a neutral shoe is your best bet. It’s a good idea to go for shoes with a wide base, which can help to reduce the chances of rolling your foot. Cushioning is also essential, and some motion control elements can be helpful.
What Brand of Shoes Do Podiatrists Recommend for Plantar Fasciitis?
All podiatrists will have their own opinions on the best shoes for plantar fasciitis. Ultimately, the brand you choose is less important than the features. As long as the shoe has excellent cushioning and the right support for you, it will be a good choice.
You can’t go wrong with a running shoe brand, as they’re specifically designed with cushion and support features.
Are Neutral Running Shoes Good for Supination?
Neutral shoes are recommended for supination. You don’t need any special stability shoe, although motion control features can be helpful. Cushioning is the most important thing to look for!
