Best Golf Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis 2026
Do you struggle with plantar fasciitis? Here are some of the best golf shoes to help...
Pain of any sorts in your feet can be incredibly distracting during a round of golf. For those who suffer with plantar fasciitis - an intense stabbing pain felt in the heel of the foot - flare ups and constant pain can ruin a round of golf and potentially stop you from playing the sport altogether. However, the perfect pair of golf shoes can help alleviate pain and make the long walk around a golf course a much more pleasant experience. With any luck they'll help you play better golf too!
The best golf shoes for plantar fasciitis have incredibly soft midsoles and insoles that cushion your feet. They have especially good padding around the heel area and offer excellent support around the ankle so your feet don't move around too much. Plus it's also worthwhile getting a fairly lightweight pair of shoes, too, so that your feet and legs don't come under too much stress while you walk the golf course.
While it must be stressed that we at Golf Monthly aren't podiatrists and our recommendations below are strictly our golf knowledge rather than medical, we do know a seriously comfortable golf shoe when we test one. On that basis, we've collated a mixture of the best spiked shoes and best spikeless shoes for those with plantar fasciitis. It's worth noting we've added more spikeless shoes to this list as they tend to be the most comfortable of the two types of golf shoe. You can also check out our guides on the best golf shoes for wide feet and best golf shoes for walking for even more options that are easy on your feet.
Best Golf Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis 2026
The Quick List
A class-leading golf shoe that features a unique material to provide an adaptive fit suitable for any foot shape and any golfer. It's overall performance, including a modern look, meant the five stars was totally deserved.
The Quantum is as comfortable a golf shoe as money can buy. They're versatile too and fashionable enough to be worn both on and off the golf course.
The combination of a perfect fit, excellent breathability, luxurious materials, and high levels of performance has resulted in a spikeless golf shoe that is a no-brainer choice for our top pick. Ecco excel when it comes to comfort and the C5 is the perfect example of this.
G/FORE's best casual shoe to date, the G.112 is much more refined than previous models thanks to the subtle styling, massaging insole and grippy outsole that performs almost as well as a spiked shoe.
The comfort is outstanding and whilst they may be limited to summer golf, the Osprey shoes from Sun Day Red perform well in dry and even damp conditions.
A clean, premium look meets the eye with the Payntr Eighty Seven SC golf shoe, providing fantastic grip and traction as well as a very comfortable fit.
Top pick
First up I've selected the latest Drive Pro Clone shoe as my top pick because aside from a small breathability point, it might be the best golf shoe you can opt for in 2026. it features a new proprietary auxetic upper which creates an adaptive fit but moulding to each persons foot. In my testing it really didn't take me long to realize how good this performance is, to the point where I think a wide range of golfers, if not all, will enjoy these shoes.
This new upper material looks and feels like real leather, and I am confident golfers of all foot shapes and sizes can get a comfortable fit in the Clone shoes. Whilst they aren't the softest feeling shoes on the market, the comfort and cushioning will still benefit those suffering from plantar fasciitis.
The support is noticeable here as well thanks to the S3 support system we saw on the previous Drive Pro shoes. The outsole in particular here gives exemplary grip and I should note the look of this shoe is a clear improvement on the previous generation of shoes as well. The athletic silhouette screams premium and Under Armour has done an impeccable job of elevating the quality from a feel and looks perspective.
One final small point is these are not the most breathable shoes I've tested. Obviously fully waterproof shoes won’t ever be as breathable as their knit counterparts, but I’d put the Clone on the less breathable side of the shoe spectrum.
- Read our full Under Armour Drive Pro Clone Shoe Review
Most comfortable
Comfort, comfort, comfort. That's my big takeaway after testing the FootJoy Quantum Golf Shoe. If you can find me a shoe that is more pleasurable to wear during a round of golf then do please show where to find them. FootJoy has basically packed as much cushioning underfoot as is reasonably possible in a golf shoe and the result is a cushioned but stable experience for the user.
The crowning glory of comfort comes from the Ortholite Impression FitBed which is one of the best insoles I've ever tried in a golf shoe. These mould to your feet after a few rounds to give you a customized experience. The comfort isn't solely reserved for underfoot either. The soft but premium-feeling upper adds to those levels.
I also love golf shoes that can be worn on and off the golf course. This is the case with the Quantums, albeit they sit in the middle of the road when it comes to looks - not exactly exciting but far from ugly. Nevertheless, these are without doubt a contender for the most comfortable golf shoes and a shout for one of the best golf shoes for 2025.
- Read our full FootJoy Quantum Golf Shoe Review
Best for wide feet
The Biom C5 is the highly anticipated successor to the popular Biom C4, a shoe I loved for many years so I had high hopes for the new model. I needn't have worried as the C5 gave a lovely blend of comfort and performance, along with balancing soft walking comfort with a lateral firmness for stability. I thought the C5 felt even more locked-in at the heel than its predecessor, providing users with the confidence to swing aggressively while feeling fully supported. It is worth noting that the insole can removed to offer more width here, without compromising on this support or comfort.
Looks-wise, the premium athletic aesthetic remains and has a few new modern refinements like the 'exhaust grid scoops' in the midsole, which work alongside Gore-Tex Surround technology to offer breathability while remaining fully waterproof. The durable ECCO Performance Leather and a soft, sock-like ankle collar ensures the shoe feels luxurious as you walk and gives you a product that is worth the high-end price tag.
As a spikeless shoe, the traction won't compete with the best spiked models out there, but it is still solid. But overall the C5 fits perfectly, the breathability is class-leading, the materials are luxurious and durable, and the performance is excellent.
- Read our full Ecco Biom C5 Golf Shoe Review
Best insole
The 2026 version of the G.112 delivers a beautifully refined look that balances a slick casual look and strong on-course performance despite the sneaker silhouette.
During testing I found these shoes to be incredibly lightweight but they will also keep you secure, locking you in tightly for the swing while offering enough give to eliminate any painful rubbing or blisters. As always with the best G/FORE golf shoes, the star of the show is the signature nubbed, massaging insole. The unique textured surface gives your feet a gentle, continuous massage as you walk, providing immense relief from fatigue over a long 18-hole round.
The low-profile spikeless outsole provides dependable traction on both dry and damp turf, meaning they are an excellent, highly versatile summer shoe option for golfers looking for one of the best spikeless golf shoes on the market.
- Read our full G/FORE G.112 2026 Golf Shoe Review
Best looking
My favorite shoe from an aesthetic point of view at the moment comes from Tiger Woods' Sun Day Red brand, the Osprey shoe. It is ideal for off the golf course use and might be the most versatile shoe I've ever tested, and is in the conversation as one of the best casual golf shoes, or best golf sneakers out there. But performance is not limited to the looks.
The comfort here is absolutely outstanding and I was able to wear these shoes all day on a number of occasions, transitioning from the course to the office and everywhere else with ease. The fit is true to size and I am confident it will suit those with narrow and even wider feet too. The use of foam throughout the design, and specifically on the thick tongue and heel areas meant my feet felt nicely housed in the shoe whilst the EVA midsole system provided comfort underfoot. That last point is especially important for irritated plantar fascia.
The breathability was also good in testing but there are a couple of points to mention. First whilst the spikeless outsole offers solid grip and traction, if you play in really wet conditions you are better off going for a spiked model in this guide. Indeed this shoe is only water-resistant and not completely waterproof as well. However if you want a summer shoe that is comfortable and looks great, I cannot recommend this shoe enough.
- Read our full Sun Day Red Osprey Golf Shoe Review
Best stability
The shoe worn by the much talked-about Jason Day on tour, the Playntr Eighty Seven SC shoes provide a slick, clean and premium look while also providing plenty of comfort and stability.
To the eye, I think these look fantastic. The malleable upper material needs to be looked after closely if you want to keep them looking perfect between rounds, but the look is a clean and pretty one. This is a brand that, in my opinion, hasn't always killed it on the looks front. However, this shoe shows they're certainly moving in the right direction.
I like the sole design as well which includes studs to provide heaps of stability. I felt very locked in as I swung the golf club which is what every golfer wants. I'd go as far to say this is a shoe right up there at the top when it comes to stability and traction within the golf shoe market. There is also plenty of cushion underfoot which provided supreme comfort on the course.
- Read our full Payntr Eighty Seven SC Golf Shoe Review
How we test
As we've mentioned above, the Golf Monthly team are not podiatrists but we do know a seriously comfortable and supportive shoe when we try one. The golf shoes above represent the cream of the crop when it comes to overall comfort and support that should help to alleviate the symptoms of plantar fasciitis. If you have specially made insoles to help stave off symptoms, they should also fit into these shoes to add another layer of comfort. Indeed it is worth acknowledging that several members of the team have suffered from plantar fasciitis, I myself for example have managed the condition, so we are confident we can recommend some excellent models to help you remain comfortable and pain free on the course.
Using our extensive testing methodology, we look to wear each shoe over several rounds of golf to determine the comfort, grip, durability and waterproofing the shoe possesses. We also attend product launches with the respective brand's R&D experts to get a better understanding of the technology in each shoe and how the features built into each shoe can benefit you on the course. Specifically for golf shoe testing, it is overseen by Dan Parker, a writer with years of experience testing golf shoes.
How to choose golf shoes
Picking out a new golf shoe is never an easy task. That is made even harder when you're looking to snag yourself a pair of sneakers that will help to alleviate the problems associated with Plantar Fascitiis. As some of the best golf shoes come with a ton of features, functionality and different styles, it is so hard to pick the one that's right for your needs. But do not fret. We've got you covered, as here are some of our top points to consider when buying your next pair of golf shoes.
1. Comfort
Once you know the right size to go for, comfort is the next factor to be aware of. If a shoe isn't comfortable, you aren't going to wear it so we recommend trying on different models before you buy. For some inspiration, check out our guide on the most comfortable golf shoes.
When you are trying shoes on, listen for a 'whoosh' sound which should indicate air leaving the shoe which usually suggests a good fit. Walk around in the shoes too so you can feel any pinching and whether your feet are moving around inside them. A correctly fitted shoe should so neither of these things.
This is important because if your feet slide around inside, or you get rubbing and blisters, you won't wear them again and they could damage your feet and performance.
2. Waterproofing
Because nobody wants to play with cold, soggy feet, right? Waterproofing is always important in a good golf shoe. Us golfers are outside all day sometimes and that means the occasional bit of rain is inevitable, and your shoes need to be able to deal with this. Therefore always check if a model is waterproof.
Some shoes are 'water-resistant' where they will survive in a short shower but will struggle to keep the water out in significant rain. It's best to double check before you buy which shoes are waterproof or not. But for some examples, we've got you covered. Take a look at our guide to the best waterproof golf shoes.
3. Spikes or no spikes?
A big conundrum many golfers are currently facing is whether they want a spiked golf shoe or a spikeless shoe. Ultimately, we cannot advise you here on what to buy as there is no right answer - it's all about personal preference. What we will say though is that there are some big benefits to wearing both.
The recent rise in popularity of some of the best spikeless golf shoes on the market comes down to essentially the amount of grip manufacturers have been able to put in their latest models. Some of the newest spikeless golf shoes offer superior traction on dry and wet lies. While spiked models will always be advisable for winter golf, there are some trendy spiked options that are able to deliver all-year-around. They also tend to be more versatile with golfers able to wear spiked shoes off the course too.
Meanwhile, the best spiked golf shoes will offer way more grip than any spikeless golf shoe can in a variety of terrains. If you plan on playing through the winter, then a spiked option may be better for those sludgy muddy days out on the course. Offering superior traction compared to many spikeless options, you may also find a spiked golf shoe can help you dig into the ground and swing through the golf ball with much more control and force.
4. Stability
On that note, stability is a big thing to consider when buying a new pair of shoes. In a way it is different to comfort as stability relates directly to your performance through a golf shot. If you find your feet moving around loads while you play each shot, then you're not going to be able to rip through the ball as well and may end up hitting your shot awry. Be sure to look out for a golf shoe that offers great support to your feet and delivers a locked-in feeling.
5. Budget
Finally be aware of your budget because you can find a golf shoe at any price point. There are some very expensive shoes out there and while sometimes you cannot put a price on your health and wellbeing, some of the best budget golf shoes also offer some great functionality to help you play your best golf.
For more advice on buying golf shoes, check out our guides to the best Footjoy golf shoes, best Nike golf shoes and best Skechers golf shoes.
FAQs
What is plantar fascitiis?
Plantar fascitiis is a regular occurrence among many golfers both at the professional and amateur level. It is a pain in the bottom of the arch and heel of your foot. It is particularly common among players who regularly play on hard ground as it is related to a lot of stress impacts on your foot.
How can golfers prevent plantar fascitiis?
While we are not medical professionals, what we can say is the best way to prevent foot, heel and toe pain on the golf course is to invest in a new pair of comfortable and spongey golf shoes. That can help to reduce the stress and pressure going through your feet during 18 holes. You can also opt to use orthotic sole inserts and roll your feet out regularly before and after your round.
Should I buy spiked or spikeless golf shoes?
That depends on your preferences as a golfer and the types of terrain you'll be playing in. Ultimately, spiked golf shoes deliver more traction on a wider range of surfaces and in different weather conditions. That means they are more suitable for year-round golf. But spikeless golf shoes do come with a lot of versatility and some of the top performing models on the market now come with traction and grip that is almost on par with some of the best spiked options on the market.
