How to Make your Feet Happy: Your guide to Fashionable Foot-Friendly Shoes

Unleash your inner fashionista with foot-friendly shoes.

Finding the perfect balance between style and comfort can be challenging; I am going through the pain of this with the development of plantar fasciitis in my left foot. While many crave the latest trends and eye-catching designs, at the end of the day, particularly as we age, it’s crucial to maintain the health of our feet. Consequently, our feet bear the weight of our daily adventures, and neglecting their well-being can lead to various discomforts, including bunions, plantar fasciitis, and more. In this article, I share some findings from my journey with plantar fasciitis. I plan to explore the exciting realm of fashionable footwear that turns heads and prioritizes good foot health.

The Fashion-Comfort Conundrum

For years, the fashion industry has often been criticized for prioritizing aesthetics over functionality, particularly when it comes to women’s footwear. High heels, narrow toe boxes, and inadequate arch support are common culprits of foot problems. However, recent trends indicate a positive shift towards creating stylish shoes that prioritise our feet’ health, as I have recently discovered.

The Rise of Health-Conscious Brands Catering to Health Issues

Several footwear brands have recognized the importance of merging fashion with functionality. Brands like Allbirds, Ecco, and Vionic have gained popularity by offering trendy designs catering to individuals seeking comfort and style. Let’s delve into some key features these brands and others incorporate into their footwear to promote good foot health.

Key Features of Fashionable Footwear with Health Benefits

Before seeing what options are out there, it’s crucial to recognize the significance of maintaining good foot health. Uncomfortable shoes lead to immediate discomfort and can contribute to long-term pain and issues such as bunions, corns, and plantar fasciitis. Here are some key features I have been looking for when dealing with plantar fasciitis pain.

Arch Support:

One of the primary factors in promoting foot health is adequate arch support. Shoes like the Vionic Tide Sandal and Ecco Biom 2.0 incorporate orthopedic principles to support the arch, reducing the risk of conditions like plantar fasciitis.

Cushioning:

Fashionable shoes don’t have to mean sacrificing cushioning. Brands like Clarks and New Balance have stylish options with advanced cushioning technology, ensuring a comfortable walking experience while reducing impact on the feet.

Wide Toe Box:

The popularity of shoes with a wide toe box has surged, benefiting individuals with bunions and toe deformities. Brands like Altra and Keen have embraced this design element without compromising style, offering chic footwear options with ample room for natural toe-splaying.

Stability and Motion Control:

Footwear that addresses stability concerns can be both stylish and supportive. ASICS and Brooks, known for their athletic and running shoes, intentionally integrate stability features into their designs, catering to those who need extra support for conditions like overpronation.

Orthotic-Friendly Options:

Custom orthotics play a crucial role in foot health. Additionally, many footwear brands now offer styles with removable insoles, allowing users to insert their orthotic inserts or stack ones for different issues. This customization is evident in brands like Orthofeet and Hoka One One.

Quick Tips & Tricks for Finding the Right Pair

Consider Your Foot Type:
- Understanding your foot type, whether you have flat feet, high arches, or neutral arches, is crucial in selecting the right footwear. Different foot types may require specific features for optimal support and comfort.
Where the Right Shoes for the Right Event:
- Understanding what you need your shoes for is paramount. If you are running, wear shoes that will give you support. If you are standing on your feet all day, ensure your shoes suit that type of activity.
Get Proper Measurements:
- Ensure you have accurate foot measurements, as shoe sizes vary between brands. Most online retailers provide sizing guides to help you make informed choices.
Read Customer Reviews:
- Take advantage of customer reviews to gather insights into the comfort, sizing, and durability of the shoes you’re interested in. Real-life experiences can provide valuable information.
Consult with a Podiatrist:
- If you have existing foot conditions or concerns, it’s advisable to consult with a podiatrist. They can offer personalized recommendations based on your unique foot health needs.

Are there Shoes for Foot Pain? Yes there is.

Dealing with foot pain can be a challenging experience, but the right pair of shoes can significantly alleviate discomfort and promote overall foot health. More and more brands are moving toward promoting healthy feet, including Frankie4, Nike, Ecco, and Merrill. Whether you’re contending with conditions like plantar fasciitis, bunions, or general foot fatigue, various shoes are designed to provide the necessary support and relief. Here’s a guide to some of the footwear options available for different types of foot pain:

Plantar Fasciitis: A painful condition stemming from your foot arch, the heel pain can be unbearable. Always talk to a healthcare professional to see your options when in doubt. Here are some brands, I have had some luck with:

ASICS GEL-Nimbus 26:
- A classic for runners, it helps provide lightweight cushioning and softer landings.
- Technology provides cushioning, which helps to create a smoother landing and a more responsive toe-off.
- Click here to find out more.
New Balance Women’s FuelCell 990 V6 Sneaker:
- It features advanced cushioning and arch support in line with the new retro-looking sneaker trend (see my othere article on the Retro Runner Rennaisance).
- Encourages proper foot alignment to relieve plantar fasciitis pain.
- Discover them here.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21
- Supportive Running Shoe
- Known for excellent stability and cushioning.
- Provides targeted support for those with plantar fasciitis.
- Step into them here.

Bunions: Bunions can be caused by genetic factors, improper footwear, and certain foot conditions. High-heeled or narrow-toed shoes may contribute to the development of bunions, as they can force the toes into unnatural positions over time. Here are some options that may help.

Clarks Unstructured Collection: Un.Loop Slip-On Shoe
- Clarks has mastered the art of combining comfort with contemporary style. This collection is perfect for those who prioritize both fashion and functionality.
- Wide toe boxes for accommodating bunions.
- Soft and flexible materials reduce pressure on bunion areas.
- Start Shopping.
ECCO Women’s Soft 7 Tie Fashion Sneaker
- Ecco is renowned for its commitment to both comfort and style, and the Soft 7 Sneakers are a prime example, featuring a sleek leather upper and a supportive, anatomical footbed.
- Stylish design with a forgiving fit for bunions.
- High-quality materials for durability and comfort.
- Discover these now.

The All Rounders: When selecting shoes for foot pain relief, it’s crucial to prioritize comfort, support, and features that cater to your specific condition.

Allbirds Wool Runners:
- Allbirds has taken the fashion scene by storm with its Wool Runners. These stylish and sustainable shoes feature a merino wool upper, providing breathability and comfort. The unique design and supportive insole make them an excellent choice for those seeking a trendy yet foot-friendly option.
- Check them out here.
Vionic Josie Kitten Heel Pump:
- Vionic’s Josie Kitten Heel Pump proves you can have elegance without sacrificing foot health. This stylish pump incorporates Vionic’s signature arch support and cushioning, making it a go-to choice for those with plantar fasciitis or arch-related concerns.
- Discover them here.
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X More V4 Running Shoe
- New Balance has evolved beyond its athletic roots, producing stylish everyday footwear. The Fresh Foam X More v3 is a prime example, featuring a trendy silhouette with the brand’s signature cushioning technology. These sneakers are ideal for individuals who desire on-trend footwear with optimal comfort.
- Get yours here.

Bottom Line: There’s Hope.

It has taken months to find the right shoes that do not aggravate my foot issues, and it’s heartening to witness the growing emphasis on combining style with foot health. With an array of fashionable footwear options prioritising arch support, cushioning, and overall comfort, we no longer need to compromise between looking good and feeling good. By incorporating the recommended features and exploring new developments in this foot space, you can confidently step into a world where fashion and foot health coexist harmoniously. Stride in style, knowing that your feet are well-supported every step of the way.

RETURN HOME.