The Best Running Socks and Sleeves for Plantar Fasciitis in 2023
Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition that many runners experience. There is no cure-all that exists to keep it from impacting daily activities.
According to Medscape, around 10 percent of people in the United States suffer heel pain from plantar fasciitis. The good news is, that most of those plantar fasciitis sufferers see improvement in their condition with nonsurgical treatment.
Treatment for plantar fasciitis comes in the form of the best running socks and sleeves for plantar fasciitis that relieve strain on the heel. Often, users wear them at night to maintain proper positioning of the leg, ankle, and ligaments. Most of these socks and sleeves don’t necessarily speed up the healing process, but they do relieve pain brought on by plantar fasciitis.
If we could choose only one, we’d go with the Feetures PF Relief Sock. It has an anatomical design, provides compression where you need it, and offers a seamless toe for comfort.
We’ve rounded up the best running socks and sleeves for plantar fasciitis so that you can stop the pain and start enjoying active pursuits again.
Top 3 Best and Favorites
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Best Plantar Sock
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Best Plantar Sock
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Feetures PF Relief Sock
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CHECK MEN’S PRICECHECK WOMEN’S PRICE |
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Best Overall Sleeve
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Best Overall Sleeve
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OS1ST FS6 Sports Compression Foot Sleeve
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Best Plantar Full Compression Sleeve
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Best Plantar Full Compression Sleeve
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OS1st FS6+ Sports Compression Leg Sleeve
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Best Overall Sock
1. Feetures PF Relief Sock
The Feetures PF Relief Sock is specifically made to relieve the pain and discomfort of plantar fasciitis. They don’t look like your average compression socks—they’re just like normal socks but with excellent compression properties.
What We Like
These socks are designed to provide compression in all the places you need it and reduce the pain associated with plantar fasciitis.
It features targeted compression under the arch, which supports the plantar fascia and provides light pressure against it.
The socks are made of high-density cushioning that’s a blend of nylon and spandex. This makes it comfortable and soft while allowing for a slight stretch.
Heel support is provided by more dense cushioning, and a seamless toe reduces friction and discomfort when you walk.
iWick fibers make the material moisture-wicking and prevent chafing. They have an anatomical left/right design, which offers a more contoured fit for comfort.
These specific socks come in both quarter-length and no-show lengths, so you can choose what’s more suitable for you. A padded tab at the back of the sock offers cushioning for the Achilles.
Why We Like It
The Feetures PF Relief Socks are specifically made for sufferers of plantar fasciitis and they look just like a normal sock. However, some may feel that they’re quite expensive.
PROS:
- Provides firm support and compression in all the right places
- Light cushioning and seamless toe for irritation-free comfort
- Soft, moisture-wicking fabric keeps you dry and reduces friction
- Anatomical design for enhanced fit
CONS:
- These socks are somewhat expensive for just one pair
Top No-Show-Height Plantar Socks
2. OS1ST FS4 Plantar Fasciitis Compression Sock
If you like no-show socks, we recommend the OS1ST FS4 Plantar Fasciitis Compression socks. They look just like regular no-show socks but offer excellent compression and pain relief in the arch.
What We Like
These socks are the perfect height for wearing with any shoes, and they look just like your normal socks.
In addition to looking great, they offer excellent medical-grade targeted compression zones, which help to support the foot structure, especially the plantar fascia.
They’re very comfortable, featuring a seamless construction from soft nylon. The material is moisture-wicking and antibacterial for great foot health.
They come in an anatomical left/right fit and also use a Y-heel for a better fit. Extra cushioning in the toe makes these feel even more comfortable. They’re available in a number of colors so you can find a sock that you like.
Why We Like It
These socks are perfect for those wanting a no-show design that can be worn with sneakers, athletic shoes, and even dress shoes. They offer medical-grade compression right in the spot you need it.
PROS:
- Targeted medical-grade compression that supports the structure of the foot
- Moisture-wicking fabric with anti-odor treatment
- No-show design can be worn with most types of footwear
- Seamless construction for enhanced comfort
CONS:
- Some people may feel that these socks are too expensive, at $25 per pair
Best Sock Splints
3. Strassburg Sock
The Strassburg Sock helps to stretch out the plantar fascia and relieve tension and strain. Take note that you should not try to run with this on—it’s for recovery purposes.
What We Like
This unusual-looking sock is actually a splint, keeping the plantar fascia in a stretched position for extended periods of time.
It’s designed to be used while resting and sleeping—don’t try to run with this on, even though we’re talking about running socks and sleeves for plantar fasciitis!
The Velcro strap around the calf provides some compression, which helps to stimulate blood flow in the area and down to the foot. However, some may find that it becomes uncomfortably tight the longer it’s worn.
The shin strap connects to the strap at the toes, causing the toes to be held in an upwards position. This stretches the plantar fascia, with the idea being that the plantar fascia heals while it’s stretched, keeping it loose and flexible instead of tight.
It’s a completely soft sock, designed to be used as a night splint. This is a huge improvement to hard and uncomfortable night boots, keeping your foot flexed but being soft enough to allow you to sleep comfortably.
You should use this sock at night in conjunction with other remedies during the day to heal your plantar fasciitis.
It comes in different sizes so be sure to double-check your size before buying. There’s also only one sock in the package. Also be aware that some may feel that the sock is too tight for comfort around the calf.
Why We Like It
This handy strap-sock helps to keep the plantar fascia in the right position to keep it stretched and limber.
PROS:
- Holds the plantar fascia in the optimum position
- Easy to get on and off
- Allows you to move comfortably and easily at night
- Soft and comfortable for use while sleeping
CONS:
- Some may feel that it’s too tight around the calf muscle
Best Overall Sleeve
4. OS1ST FS6 Sports Compression Foot Sleeve
The OS1ST FS6 Sports Compression Foot Sleeve is ideal for providing support, relief, and comfort in a light and hardly-felt package. It fits easily underneath normal socks and into any shoes.
What We Like
These compression sleeves can be bought as a pair or as a single unit, which is convenient for everyone, no matter how your plantar fasciitis presents.
The thick band around the top of the sleeve is comfortable and prevents it from slipping down. An open-toed design allows for freedom of movement and centers the compression right where you need it—in the arch.
The sock has graduated compression thanks to Compression Zone Technology, for continuous support of the arch and the Achilles tendon. This helps to increase circulation and reduce inflammation.
It’s made of soft, moisture-wicking material that is thick enough to provide structure but still thin enough to wear in any pair of shoes, and even under a pair of socks if necessary. You can also wear it comfortably overnight for extra support.
Why We Like It
These compression sleeves are light, comfortable, and easy to wear during the day or at night. They provide excellent graduated compression in the areas you need it most. However, they only seem to have a lifespan of about 6 months.
PROS:
- Graduated compression provides continuous support
- Comfortable and soft material for all-day wear
- Thin enough to be worn with socks and shoes for discreet support
- Extend down to the ball of the foot for added support and protection
CONS:
- These have an estimated lifespan of only 6 months
Top Compression Sleeve
5. OS1ST FS6+ Sports Compression Leg Sleeve
This compression sleeve offers all the same benefits as the previous one but has more coverage over the calf. This is excellent for encouraging blood flow, which can make a big difference to the plantar fascia.
What We Like
The OS2ST FS6+ is the longer version of the FS6, and it comes up to just below the knee. It offers 5 different zones of compression running from toe to top and like the FS6, it has an open toe design so you can wear your favorite socks over it.
Firm compression under the arch is designed to lift the plantar fascia and increase blood flow to the area, helping to heal and reduce pain.
The heel features moderate compression and the Achilles has firm compression. A “+ Compression” zone runs from the ankle all the way up the rest of the sock, helping to stimulate blood flow.
Made of nylon and spandex, it’s slightly stretchy and comfortable. A no-slip design ensures that it doesn’t slip down and lose its effectiveness.
The fabric is also moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and keeps its shape over time so you should get a long time of use out of these socks.
You should note that fitting this sleeve can be difficult, as it depends on the proportion between your foot and your calf.
Why We Like It
This knee-high compression sock provides firm compression in the arch for plantar fascia support, as well as compression across the calf for stimulating blood flow.
PROS:
- Compression zones continuously support and stretch the plantar fascia
- Moisture-wicking and quick-drying fabric
- Non-slip design so the sleeve stays in place while you move
- Maintains its shape over time
CONS:
- The fit may be tricky to determine depending on the size of your calf
Most Comfortable
6. Zensah Plantar Fasciitis Sleeve
The Zensah Plantar Fasciitis Sleeve is comfortable thanks to its soft material construction and pinch-reducing mesh panel design. Easy to be worn under socks or over socks and inside shoes!
What We Like
This compression sleeve is constructed from polyamide and Lycra Spandex. This makes it very soft, as well as slightly stretchy, and easy to get on and off. It’s also seam-free, which eliminates any chafing hazards.
The material is moisture-wicking and uses silver-ion technology to effectively reduce odor and keep your feet fresh at all times.
There are also unique strategically-placed mesh sections that help to prevent the material from pinching your skin.
To support the plantar fascia, visible T-Band Compression and 3D Geo Technology help to stabilize the plantar fascia and relieve pain and tension.
It also helps to improve circulation, which can help to lower pain and reduce inflammation in the foot.
Why We Like It
These compression sleeves are soft, comfortable, and supportive of the plantar fascia. You can wear them all day without discomfort, as well as at night. However, the thin material may be less durable than other similar products.
PROS:
- Soft, seam-free fabric keeps you dry and comfortable
- T-Band Compression reduces the pressure that’s placed on the plantar fascia
- Silver-ions prevent odor-causing bacteria
- Thin enough to be worn comfortably all day with shoes
CONS:
- These sleeves seem to be less durable due to their thin construction
Best Support Sleeve
7. SB Sox Foot Sleeve
With strong, targeted compression right where you need it most, this FDA-registered foot sleeve offers a money-back guarantee if it can’t help ease the symptoms of your plantar fasciitis.
What We Like
Targeted ribbed compression in the arch area provides strong support to the plantar fascia, helping to reduce pain by keeping the tendon stretched and supported.
Made from nylon and spandex, the sleeves are FDA-registered and help to promote foot health. The knitted compression zones provide excellent support under the arch, while also increasing circulation so that nutrient-rich blood can help heal the tissues.
Lightweight and breathable, this open-toed, ankle-height sleeve moves easily with your foot for comfort, while still offering effective compression.
A thick band around the ankle is wide enough to not chafe, and the sleeve is low enough to be worn easily underneath your regular running socks.
The sleeve also has both antibacterial and anti-static features that keep them very comfortable and fresh no matter how long you wear them at a time.
You can find these compression sleeves in a number of different sizes, from small to extra-large.
Why We Like It
The Sox Foot Sleeves are very supportive of the plantar fascia, and you can wear them comfortably under your socks and in shoes.
PROS:
- Knitted compression zones provide targeted support to the plantar fascia
- Antibacterial properties promote good foot health
- Made from lightweight, breathable fabric that moves with you
- Low-profile design so you can wear them under your running socks
CONS:
- Some may find that the ribbed design leaves marks on their feet
Top Value
8. Bitly Compression Sleeve
This compression sleeve is good quality for its price, and it’s ideal if you want something to wear every now and then to help support your arch while it heals from plantar fasciitis.
What We Like
These open-toed compression sleeves are easy to wear and very affordable, so if you’re on a budget they would be perfect for you.
They are unisex and come in a variety of colors. They are also low-profile enough to be worn underneath socks and in shoes comfortably.
Their lightweight design molds to the shape of your foot, hugging the arch and providing support for the plantar fascia. Elasticated cuffs at the ankle help to prevent them from falling down.
Breathable and moisture-wicking, these sleeves keep your feet comfortable. These sleeves are helpful for those with flat feet.
What you should consider:
Some users complain about the elastic around the toe area rolling up after some time.
Why We Like It
The Bitly Compression Sleeves are unisex and made of fairly good material for their price. Although they may not last as long as others, you can buy a few pairs of these for the price of one in other brands. They may be best for wearing at night rather than walking around in shoes.
PROS:
- Mold to the shape of your foot and supports and stabilizes your plantar fascia
- Breathable, moisture-wicking fabric prevents blisters
- Elasticated cuffs keep the sock in place
- A great option for people with flat feet or fallen arches
CONS:
- May be slightly less durable and best for wearing at night
Best Three-Pack
9. OrthoSleeve FS4 Plantar Fasciitis Sock
If you want more than one pair of excellent plantar fasciitis socks without having to spend a fortune, then we recommend this handy 3-pack of Orthofeet FS4 Plantar Fasciitis Socks.
What We Like
These short, comfortable socks come in a 3-pack so you can always have a pair of your plantar fasciitis socks ready to wear.
They use medical-grade compression to provide you with excellent support and structure in the arch area, molding to your foot to keep the plantar fascia supported.
An anatomical fit means the socks contour to the left and right feet and a specially-knitted heel pocket helps to keep the foot in the proper place at all times.
Lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking, the material and the seamless construction make these socks very comfortable on your feet.
They also offer a money-back guarantee if you aren’t happy with the socks for any reason. The socks are made to last for up to 6 months of regular use.
Why We Like It
Not only are these socks excellent quality, but they provide good support for the plantar fascia and come in a handy 3-pack.
PROS:
- Four compression zones provide support where you need it
- Light padding provides comfort and cushions your feet from impact
- Maintain their shape and compression after multiple washes
- Available as a 3-pack in different sizes
CONS:
- These socks only last 6 months
Top for Targeted Compression
10. Pro-Tec PF Sleeve
The Pro-Tec PF Sleeve offers specialized compression in three key areas across the foot to provide the best and most comprehensive targeted compression.
What We Like
This sleeve offers specially targeted compression in the heel, the Achilles, and the plantar fascia. This provides all-around, comprehensive support which helps to lower pain and reduce strain on any part of the foot.
Unique stitching offers excellent stabilizing forces, keeping the feet supported and stable when you walk, stand, or sit. It also helps to reduce muscle fatigue.
The comfortable cuff at the ankle helps it to stay up, and the open-toed design means it won’t bunch up under the foot and create hotspots.
It’s available in small, medium, and large, and it’s thin enough to be worn underneath socks comfortably.
Why We Like It
This sleeve provides excellently targeted compression in three areas, keeping your foot properly and fully supported.
PROS:
- Dedicated compression zones for the arch, heel, and Achilles
- Efficiently reduce muscle fatigue
- Comfortable “stay-up cuff” holds the socks in place
- Won’t bunch up or create pressure points when worn with shoes
CONS:
- While the package states that there’s a recovery guide included, many buyers didn’t receive it
Buyer’s Guide – Socks and Sleeves for Plantar Fasciitis
Compression
You should choose a pair of socks or a sleeve with compression in the right place. There should be compression around the ankle and underneath the foot to support the plantar fascia.
Compression comes in varying levels. The level you choose should depend on your comfort and how much support the plantar fascia needs.
Sizing
Make sure you choose the right size compression socks. If they are too big, the compression will be ineffective. If they are too small, the compression will be painful and could cause more harm than good.
Most compression socks will come with a sizing guide that requires you to measure your legs at various points to determine which size is best suited to you.
How to Measure the Right Size
For knee-high socks, you will need to measure your ankle circumference, calf circumference, and calf length. However, you should always check the manufacturer’s sizing instructions as well and follow those first.
Fabric
Compression socks can be made of elastane, Lycra, nylon, microfiber, or a blend of multiple fabrics.
Elastane and Lycra offer excellent stretch, and Lycra is also highly durable. Microfiber and nylon are usually very soft against the skin and breathable.
In most cases, blended fabric is the best choice to give you the best of all the features.
Style
Most compression socks and sleeves come in black and white so you can wear them with almost any kind of clothing. However, if you want something more stylish and fun, some also come in a number of different colorways.
FAQs
Should I Run With Compression Socks for Plantar Fasciitis?
If you have plantar fasciitis, it’s a good idea to run with running socks and sleeves for plantar fasciitis. They can help to reduce pain as long as they provide enough support in the right place on the plantar fascia.
How Do Runners Avoid Plantar Fasciitis?
While you can run more comfortably using running socks and sleeves for plantar fasciitis, you should take steps to avoid plantar fasciitis in the first place.
You should choose shoes that are designed in such a way that it helps to minimize the stress on the plantar fascia. If you already have a new pair of running shoes, you can try adding an insert for plantar fasciitis.
If you can, avoid walking barefoot even in the house. Try to choose slippers with good plantar support and if you like to wear sandals, make sure those are also appropriate for plantar fascia support.
You should also maintain a healthy weight to avoid placing unnecessary strain and pressure on the plantar fascia.
Do Compression Socks Help With Plantar Fasciitis?
Compression socks can help with plantar fasciitis by creating pressure on the plantar fascia, which helps to reduce pain by improving blood circulation.
What Are the Benefits of Plantar Fasciitis Compression Socks?
Using plantar fasciitis compression socks can help to reduce swelling and pain by increasing circulation in the painful area.
They may also offer increased arch support when wearing them, which will help to provide better support to the feet when you’re not wearing shoes with arch support.
Can I Wear Compression Socks at Night?
You can wear light compression socks at night to ease the pain of plantar fasciitis in the morning. However, you should be careful that the sock isn’t so tight that it causes numbness, tingling, or pain.
