With the best work boots for plantar fasciitis, it becomes so much easier to muster the strength to jump into your boots and set off to work. When your work boots are the most comfortable pair of shoes you’ve ever owned, the idea feels much more appealing. The fact that these shoes protect your feet from occupational hazards doesn’t necessarily mean they have to be uncomfortable.
There are a plethora of various work boot models that address the issue of plantar fasciitis. After all, it is very common among people who have to stand or walk a lot as a part of their job. Here, we’ll tell you all about our favorite models, and give you all the info you need to find an ideal model for you!
See The Quick Comparison Chart
Why Should You Get Work Boots for Plantar Fasciitis?
A great pair of work boots is a necessity whether you work at a warehouse, a lab, a delivery service, or somewhere else entirely. It’s simple – it’s not easy to spend 8 to 12 hours every day in the same pair of shoes, no matter how comfy they may be when you first put them on. The issue becomes even tougher when you have to deal with heel pain along the way. Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition that can make simple, everyday obligations unbearable if they involve walking or standing on your feet.
If you are dealing with this condition, getting a new pair of work boots is likely your biggest priority. Wearing a specially made model can make your life much easier, since it reduces the pain, prevents further injury, and helps your feet recover quicker. So, what exactly sets plantar fasciitis models apart from regular work boots? The answer lies in the support it provides crucial spots of your foot.
1. Arch and Heel Support
One of the two most important factors that make shoes for plantar fasciitis suitable and helpful to those who suffer from the condition is the support the shoe provides to two essential spots: the arch and the heel. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis, house slippers, or work boots. These principles always apply when it comes to plantar fasciitis.
The inflammation of the ligament at the bottom of the foot – the plantar fascia – appears when the ligament can’t provide enough support and hold the moving body against gravity. If your foot twists, pronates or supinates, or feels too stiff, chances are that you will develop plantar fasciitis.
Whether you have it already or you’re in a high-risk group for developing the condition, getting a pair of shoes that provides structural support to your feet is essential. That’s especially true if you spend long hours in that pair. Keep your heels slightly elevated and surrounded with a cushy material, firmly seated in a heel cup. This feature holds your heel in a natural position and doesn’t allow it to move in an unnatural or harmful way. Arch support is a bit of high-density foam that holds the arches of your feet elevated, put in a natural, correct position. This takes the pressure off your arches and plantar fascia, providing additional support to your foot and holding it in a proper, natural position throughout the day, no matter how tired you may feel.
2. Shock Absorption
One of the most common causes of plantar fasciitis is suffering too much impact with every step. Whenever you take a step, your foot bangs the floor heel-first. Generally, your plantar fascia is strong enough to both withstand the resulting shock and to absorb it, protecting the rest of your body. In fact, the most important job of this ligament is to prevent shocks from stepping to reach bone joints like your ankles and knees. It’s when your plantar fascia can’t handle the shocks that you can develop fasciitis – no matter if that’s because of a weak plantar fascia, or simply too much shock.
A big part of the role of the soles of your shoes is to protect your feet and to absorb as much shock as possible. While this protection is present in all types of shoes to some extent, shoes made for people with plantar fasciitis have this feature taken up a notch. That’s mainly because exposure to shocks doesn’t do any good to the already damaged plantar fascia. That’s why it’s super important for the shoe to protect it by dispersing and absorbing shock with every single step.
Best Work Boots For Plantar Fasciitis Comparison Chart
| PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
|---|---|---|---|
 | Timberland PRO Men’s Boondock 6″ Waterproof Work Boot |
| View On Amazon |
 | Skechers Men’s Verdict Men’s Boot |
| View On Amazon |
 | Caterpillar Women’s Dryverse Waterproof Steel Toe Work Boot |
| View On Amazon |
 | KEEN Utility Men’s Milwaukee 6″ Steel Toe Work Boot |
| View On Amazon |
 | Thorogood Men’s American Heritage 8″ Moc Toe – Safety Toe |
| View On Amazon |
 | KEEN Utility Women’s Detroit Xt Waterproof Work Boot |
| View On Amazon |
Best Work Boots for Plantar Fasciitis Reviews
1. Timberland PRO Men’s Boondock 6″ Waterproof Work Boot
Timberland is one of those brands that has earned its customers’ loyalty over the years by putting out high-quality models one after another. This work boot model named Boondock is not cheap, but it’s a boot you can rely on month after month.
Boondock boots look stiff, but they’re well-built and very comfortable. The outsole is made out of TPU (thermal plastic urethane) and it features very deep lugs that make the shoe slip-resistant. The material is oil and abrasion-resistant as well, and it provides secondary underfoot protection against live electrical circuits. The shoe is waterproof too, and it combines a welt and cement sole construction to ensure maximum waterproofing. Your toes will be protected with a composite safety cap with a molded rubber toe protector for better abrasion resistance and durability.
The inside is very comfy as well. Not only is this shoe a perfect height for plantar fasciitis, but it also has a fiberglass shank for better structural stability, a dual-density PU insole, and a cushy PU midsole.
Overall, this boot is very comfy and durable, but also very protective. You can get it in sizes 7 to 15, in both medium and wide.
Pros
- Waterproof, slip-resistant, electrical hazard protection, with a composite toe cap
- Fiberglass shank with a PU insole and midsole
Cons
- Not affordable
2. Skechers Men’s Verdict Men’s Boot
If you’re looking for a classic work boot, we have picked out an inexpensive model by Skechers. This is a waterproof, soft-toed boot. It has deep lugs which is ideal for agricultural or any other type of outdoor work.
With a heel at 1 1/4 inch high, this boot is at an ideal height for anyone who suffers from plantar fasciitis. It’s also equipped with a memory foam cushioned insole. On the inside, there’s a padded tongue and collar for maximum comfort. The midsole is 3/4 inches thick for the best shock absorbency. It features a steel shank for extra support and stability, even if you tend to overpronate.
The upper of the shoe is made of waterproof leather with a natural finish, and the waterproofing is reinforced at the sides with a seam-sealed midsole design. The inside is lined with a smooth fabric, making it a material combination with good breathability. The outsoles are made out of rugged rubber with deep lugs for great traction.
You can get this pair of shoes in men’s sizes 6.5 to 14, and it also comes in medium, wide, and extra-wide.
Pros
- Inexpensive, high-quality soft-toed work boot
- Features a steel shank and good breathability
Cons
- No toe cap
3. Caterpillar Women’s Dryverse Waterproof Steel Toe Work Boot
If you’re looking for a super-protective women’s model of work boots, look no further than good, old, trusty Caterpillar brand. Here we have a Cat model named Dryverse, a fitting name for this water-resistant boot.
The upper of the boot is made out of full-grain leather or Nubuck, and the sole is made out of rubber, attached with a cement (adhesive) construction for great waterproofing. This tough shoe will protect your toes on the job with a steel toe cap, and you’ll be safe from electrical hazards up to 600 volts in dry conditions with these EH rated shoes.
The construction of the boot is not only tough, but it’s very comfy as well. The inside of the boot is lined with nylon mesh which provides good breathability. It also comes with a PU foam insole lined with a Nylex sock liner which is moisture-wicking for comfort during those long work hours. The midsole is made out of poured PU, providing fair shock absorption, and the shoe features a nylon shank that improves stability without adding too much weight. The rubber outsole is made to handle water, oil, and abrasion, and it’s slip-resistant.
This model comes in three natural colors and in women’s sizes 5 through 11.
Pros
- Waterproof, EH, slip-resistant boot with a steel toe cap
- PU midsole and insole with nylon lining
Cons
- If you need arch support, insert your own orthotics
4. KEEN Utility Men’s Milwaukee 6″ Steel Toe Work Boot
If you need a heavy-duty shoe that provides great arch support, Keen has got a fantastic men’s model to offer. This steel-toed shoe is named Milwaukee, and it has plenty to offer to a working man.
The upper of the shoe is made out of abrasion-resistant, full-grain leather which is water-resistant, but not waterproof. Your toes will be protected with a set of asymmetrical steel toes with an additional rubber wrapping at the front. The outsole of the shoe is oil and slip-resistant, and it’s made out of non-marking rubber so you won’t leave black marks on the floor. The soles also provide good protection from electrical hazards as it’s rated EH.
When it comes to cushioning and support you need to help alleviate plantar fasciitis pain, this shoe won’t leave you hanging. The removable footbed is made out of a dual-density EVA with great arch support. The inside of the shoe is lined with a comfy, breathable, moisture-wicking textile. The shoe won’t bend or twist, as the midsole features a TPU shank for increased stability.
The shoe comes in sizes 7 through 15, and you can get a medium or wide version.
Pros
- Water-resistant, EH, steel toe capped boot
- Dual-density EVA footbed with arch support and a TPU shank
Cons
- Some customers complained that the lace eyelets broke quickly
5. Thorogood Men’s American Heritage 8″ Moc Toe – Safety Toe
If you’re willing to pay a bit more for the high-quality USA made pair of work boots, we have a beautiful 8 inches deep pair for you. Made by Thorogood, the American Heritage Moc Toc work boots come in two natural leather colors.
This pair of boots is deeper than the typical ankle-high work boots. Their shaft measures approximately 8 inches from the arch, making the collar of the shoe about 2-3 inches above the ankle. The upper of this boot is made out of full-grain leather, and your toes will be protected with a steel cap.
The soles of these shoes are very comfy, making them ideal for people who need to stand or walk long hours while going through plantar fasciitis. The outsole is the manufacture’s patented MAXWear Wedge, made out of polyurethane and featuring medium-depth lugs, making it slip-resistant. The footbed is also made out of polyurethane, and the midsole is a Poron comfort cushion that provides good shock absorption. These shoes feature a fiberglass shank for improved stability. This pair isn’t waterproof, but it provides electrical hazard protection, and slip resistance.
They’re available in men’s sizes 6.5 to 15, in both medium and wide.
Pros
- Steel toe cap, anti-slip sole, and EH protection
- Deep boots – shaft measures 8 inches
Cons
- Not waterproof
6. KEEN Utility Women’s Detroit Xt Waterproof Work Boot
Finding a comfy pair of women’s work boots that features both a steel toe cap and premium arch support is by no means easy – but Keen is there to end your search. The Detroit XT leather work boots have a lot to offer to a working woman.
These good-looking shoes are made out of a leather and mesh combination, so they have good breathability. The shoe is almost completely waterproof – it features the company’s own Keen.Dry technology, which is a breathable membrane that lets vapor out, and doesn’t let water in. The inner lining of the shoe is a moisture-wicking textile.
When it comes to comforting your aching plantar fascia, this pair of boots has a lot to offer. First off, it has a dual-density compression-molded EVA midsole for great arch support. While this model doesn’t feature a shank, the design features a full-length TPU stability plate with contoured underfoot support. The footbed is removable and made out of polyurethane.
This shoe provides toe protection with a steel cap, waterproof upper, oil and slip resistance that won’t leave marks on your floor, and protection from high voltages. It’s available in a red and a blue color scheme, and you can get it in women’s sizes 5 to 11, with some sizes coming in both medium and wide.
Pros
- Waterproof, slip-resistant, steel toe cap, EH protection
- EVA midsole with a TPU stability plate
Cons
- No shank – replaced with TPU stability plate
7. Bogs Men’s Forge Steel Toe Waterproof Rubber Work Rain Boots
If your job requires you to work in wet conditions, walk through mud, and even wade through water, you need a pair of work boots that’s 100% waterproof to keep your feet dry. Luckily, Bogs makes a pair of heavy-duty deep boots that are perfect for just that!
The shoe is made out of two materials – 70% rubber and 30% neoprene. The rubber is durable and lasted by hand, and flexible for a four-way stretch. The outsole is durable, features deep lugs, and very shock absorbent, so your feet will be thankful after a while walking in these. The outsole is slip-resistant, and it won’t leave marks on slick floors. These deep work boots are insulated, and they’ll be comfortable to wear even in up to -40˚F subzero temperatures. They have a steel toe cap, and the manufacturer sends the black boot with either a gray or a yellow toe box.
The midsole technology that’s used in this shoe is named Rebound, and it’s the manufacturer’s proprietary cushioning. The insole has Aegis antimicrobial odor protection, so you don’t have to worry if your feet sweat in this pair of work boots.
They are available in a huge variety of men’s sizes: from size 4 to 18.
Pros
- Completely waterproof, EH protection, slip-resistant, and insulated
- Keeps your feet warm even in subzero temperatures
Cons
- You can’t choose between the grey and yellow toe box
8. Danner Men’s Quarry USA Distressed Brown at-M
Next up, we have a pair of shoes that have already become a staple for many working men – Danner’s model Quarry USA.
The upper of this shoe is made out of top-grain Nubuck. The Gore-tex liner makes this shoe waterproof and very breathable at the same time. This work boot is slightly deeper than your regular ankle booties, and with a shaft of around 8 inches, the boot provides more protection above your ankles.
The outsole of this boot is made out of Vibram rubber, which is oil and slip-resistant. The very deep lugs run in different directions, giving you great traction no matter the surface. This material choice also gives you great electrical hazard protection. Your toes will be protected with an alloy toe cap, which is as sturdy as steel, yet a bit lighter. This boot provides a good bit of cushioning, and your heels will feel good even after standing through a long workday. The boot features an OrthoLite footbed and a fiberglass shank for better torsional stability and good bending.
This work boot comes in sizes 7 to 14, in both medium and wide.
Pros
- Waterproof, slip-resistant, EH protection, and an alloy steel cap
- Fiberglass shank and an OrthoLite footbed
Cons
- Not affordable
9. Caterpillar Women’s Echo Waterproof Steel Toe Work Boot
No matter what part of construction or warehouse work you look at – the name Caterpillar reappears time and time again. This versatile brand makes high-quality work items, and their women’s work boots are no exception. Here we have Echo – a heavy-duty boot in a pretty color scheme.
The upper of the boot is made of Nubuck, in frost grey and marlin purple. The material is waterproof, so it’ll keep your feet dry and protected even if you work in muddy or wet conditions. The inside of these boots is lined with a specially engineered nylon mesh, and the insole features a Nylex sock liner which is moisture-wicking, giving you another layer of odor and moisture protection.
When it comes to cushioning, this model is said to provide the comfort of athletic shoes with the durability of work boots. That is provided by the polyurethane foam insole and a PVC midsole with a steel shank for extra stability and support.
This shoe protects your toes with a steel cap, and it will keep you safe from electricity up to 600 volts in dry conditions.
It comes in women’s sizes 5 through 11, in both medium and wide.
Pros
- Waterproof, steel toe cap, EH protection up to 600 V, slip-resistant outsole
- PU insole with a PVC midsole and a steel shank for stability
Cons
- The lining seems to wear out quickly for some customers
10. Golden Fox Steel Toe Men’s Lightweight Work Boots Insulated
Next up, we have a surprisingly affordable pair of work boots with a moccasin-style toe box made by Golden Fox.
The elegant design of these shoes is deceiving – they’re heavy-duty work boots. Under the moccasin stitched toe box is a steel toe cap that will keep your feet safe from any falling or rolling object coming your way. These insulated shoes will feel warm even in cold weather, though granted, the steel cap does get very chilled. The upper of the shoes is made out of full-grain leather, and it comes in two natural-looking colors: redwood and brown. Though not waterproof, this material is water-resistant.
On the inside, the boots are lined with an antimicrobial, moisture-wicking fabric, which ensures comfortable and odorless use. When it comes to the sole, this model features an oil-resistant Rubberlon outsole with somewhat shallow lugs. On the inside, your feet are protected with a Bontex footbed and a dual cushion removable insole.
These shoes are available in sizes 7 to 13, but make sure to get half or a full size smaller because they run a little large.
Pros
- Insulated, water-resistant, steel toe cap for protection
- Very affordable
Cons
- Not very durable
11. Ariat Men’s Catalyst VX Composite Toe Work Boot
If you’re looking for a boot that will last you a long time and get you through countless hours of work, look no further than men’s Catalyst VX made by Ariat.
This heavy-duty boot is there to take many hits and still stay in great shape and carry your weight. The sole is made out of very durable Duratread rubber, and it features somewhat shallow but very versatile lugs. The outsole is both oil and slip-resistant. The soles also provide protection from electrical hazards. Your heels and plantar fascia will also get some help in recovering and preventing further injury, as this model comes with a shock-absorbent EVA midsole.
The upper of the shoe is made out of full-grain leather, and the design features a protective shin guard along with heel guards and composite toe caps for good protection against blunt objects falling on your feet. On the inside, the boot is lined with a mesh lining which ensures good breathability.
You can get this model in two shades of brown, and you can get them in men’s sizes 7 through 14, with some sizes also coming in a wide version.
Pros
- Waterproof, slip-resistant, EH protection, composite toe cap
- Shock-absorbent EVA midsole and Duratread outsoles
Cons
- Not affordable
Work Boots for Plantar Fasciitis Buying Guide
Getting the right pair of work boots is difficult as it is, and it’s especially complex when you have plantar fasciitis to worry about as well. There are many important factors to consider, both regarding the protection of the foot related to the condition, and specs important in work boots in general. Work boots have to comply with many regulations and standards (especially those issued by OSHA), which inevitably adds to the overall price. This makes work boots less affordable in general, so picking the right pair from the get-go is even more important.
Here, we’ll discuss all of the most important factors you should consider in your work boots, related to plantar fasciitis, occupational hazards, and finally the right sizing. However, you should always keep in mind what your job and its unique specifications and possible hazards are. Also, remember any recommendations you might get from your employer, and hold that knowledge above the generalized advice we give here.
1. Cushioning, Support, and Shock Absorption
If you wake up and the first couple of steps are painful, chances are that you currently suffer from plantar fasciitis (except if you use one of the best plantar fasciitis night splints, which reduces morning step pain). The most effective way to battle this is by resting and not walking at all, but if you’re a worker, in many cases that’s not an option. So instead, you need to get a pair of shoes that will provide optimal cushioning and support to your feet, which will make the job of your feet as easy as possible.
The sole provides all three important factors – cushioning, support, and shock absorption. The sole of a regular pair of shoes can be divided into three distinct parts: the outsole which touches the ground, the midsole which provides cushioning, and the insole which cradles your foot (also called the footbed).
Most of the cushioning and shock absorption is provided by the midsole, but the outsole also helps. However, just like in the best hiking boots for plantar fasciitis, the outsole plays a much bigger role in gait stability (anti-slip and multi-surface outsoles). The insole is the part that provides support your foot in place and helps you to position and flex your foot the right way, though arch support starts in the midsole as well.
1.1. The Midsole
The midsole is the heart of cushioning in any type of shoe. It’s located in the middle of the sole, hence its name. Most midsoles are made out of some type of foam, the most common pick being a foam type called EVA. This material provides optimal cushioning and shock absorption. But since it compresses when you step on it, it can lose cushioning over time. Midsoles made out of EVA do not only cushion your feet – they can provide arch support as well. When you see the midsole described with dual or even triple density, it means that the midsole has a chunk of firmer foam underneath the medial part of the foot – right where your plantar fascia and arch are. This change in density supports your arch by stabilizing your gait and reducing overpronation (which is very common among models in our work boots for flat feet reviews).
Polyurethane is another popular material choice for the midsole. This material is not as soft and cushy as EVA since it’s firmer, but it does last a bit longer and provides good support.
1.2. The Insole
The insole or the footbed is the part of the sole that directly touches your foot inside the shoe. The main role of the insole is to provide stability to your foot as you stand and walk. But it also adds a bit of cushioning to the shoe, improving the overall comfort it provides.
To maximize support, you should look for work boots that have a contoured insole. This type of insole has an indent for the heel (heel cup) and a raised part under the arch, and in some cases also a ball of the foot or toe indentations as well. The contoured insoles keep your foot in the right position, not letting your foot move in an unnatural way. The contours serve as a guideline for your foot, and they provide support so that you can stay on your feet for longer without losing confidence in your gait.
Removable insoles are a big plus for any type of shoe you get (with the exception of the best sandals for plantar fasciitis and top-rated slippers for plantar fasciitis which require a solid midsole to insole construction). When you can remove the insole, you can put in your own podiatrist-recommended or custom made orthotic. It’s also useful to replace the insole if the one already in the shoe compresses too much and loses its supportiveness over time when inserting a new insole instead of buying entirely new shoes can save you quite a bit.
2. Safety in the Workplace
Safety in the workplace is paramount. In fact, that is likely the sole reason why you need to get a special pair of boots for work, instead of wearing your favorite pair of sneakers or the best nursing clogs. Here, we’ll outline various features that your work boots might need depending on your particular occupation and the environment you work in. You should always keep the specifics of your job in mind when choosing the right pair of work boots, and check with your company to see if they have a list of recommendations for staying safe in your particular work environment.
2.1. Slip Resistant Outsoles
It doesn’t matter if you’re a waitperson, a mechanic, or a lab assistant. If there’s a high possibility that water, oil, or another liquid can end up on the floor, you need slip-resistant shoes. Resistance to slipping is usually achieved through the choice of material and the shape of the outsole (the outermost part of the sole that is your contact with the ground).
Pick an outsole made out of rubber or TRP, and avoid Polyurethane outsoles if there’s often spillage on the floor where you work. Rubber and TPR provide good traction and stick to the floor well.
If you need to wade through mud or walk on slippery ground or grass, look for deep lugs. Similar to the tread pattern on your car tires, lugs keep your tread secure, providing good traction on even and uneven surfaces alike.
2.2. Toe Protection
If you work in a warehouse, a foundry, at the mechanic’s, on construction sites, in forestry, or any other job environment where it’s likely that something heavy will fall on or roll over your foot, you should invest in a good pair of work boots with toe caps.
There are two common types of toe protection: steel or composite material.
Steel toe caps are likely the first thing you think of when you hear the term “toe protection”. This traditional method of protecting your feet is unbeatable in terms of safeguarding it provides – but it comes with downsides too. With a high-quality steel cap over your toes, you’ll go unharmed even through extreme situations like a forklift going over your toes. However, if you work in a cold environment, with steel-capped boots you risk frostbite because the metal quickly gets freezing cold.
Additionally, steel is heavy, so it adds to the overall weight of the shoes. That extra weight is not something you want if you need to walk a lot unless your goal is to work out while working. Jokes aside, a steel cap is the best protection you can get for your feet if there’s a feasible chance that something will fall or roll over your toes at work.
Composite toe caps are an alternative to steel. They’re made out of synthetic woven materials, and provide fair protection from blunt objects, but not from piercing damage. If you’re under risk of blunt objects falling on your feet, but don’t really see a forklift riding over your toes as a viable possibility, you should go for a composite toe cap. Work boots for plantar fasciitis with composite toes are lighter yet provide a good amount of protection – definitely not as much as steel caps, but if you don’t reasonably need a steel-capped boot, you should go for a composite toe because they’re much more comfortable and easier to wear in the long run.
2.3. Resistance to Water and Chemicals
Water-resistant boots are no novel invention. Since the dawn of humanity, we’ve been searching for ways to keep our feet nice and dry. When your shoes get wet on the inside, they are not only uncomfortable. They can also cause bacteria and fungi growth, or give you a bad case of cold. If you work in conditions where you might step into some water or have a bit spilled over your shoes, you should look for water-resistant boots. However, if you need to wade through water, work in the rain, or any other type of water, you should look for fully waterproof boots. The difference between the two becomes apparent when you step into toe-deep water. But sadly, some manufacturers label their merely water-resistant boots as waterproof – so you should double-check!
If you work in healthcare, a laboratory, or any kind of workshop that involves potentially harmful chemicals in the process, you should look for a pair of work boots that provides protection. While many water-resistant boots can do the trick in many cases, there’s an off chance that the chemical can gnaw through the materials of the boot, putting you in danger. That’s why you should look for specially treated materials that provide protection from chemicals.
2.4. Non-conductive Soles
If you work in plumbing or as an electrician, you work with machinery or high-voltage equipment, work in digging or in construction, or in any way come in touch with electricity, you should pick a pair of shoes with non-conductive soles. Rubber soles are generally enough for anybody who doesn’t come in touch with high voltages or live wires. However, if you do work with live wires or in any way come close to high-voltage equipment, you should look for EH rated shoes for dry conditions or the fully rubber dielectric boots for wet environments.
3. Midsole Shank
The shank is a small plate that’s commonly used in shoemaking. This centuries-old invention is a small plate. It’ usually made out of steel, fiberglass, Kevlar, or another rigid material, and located inside the midsole, typically right under the arch.
The shank has many benefits, both in terms of occupational safety and keeping your plantar fasciitis in check, so we highly recommend finding a pair of work boots that includes this piece.
First of all, the shank is an integral part that helps shoe stability and prevents unnatural bending. It ensures the shoe bends at the ball of the foot and not under your arch when you take a step. If you tend to overpronate, the shank also keeps you from twisting your foot and the shoe. Both of these are important for people with plantar fasciitis since the shank provides the necessary stability and prevents further injury.
When it comes to the protection the shank provides to workers, the importance is comparable to hiking boots. Hikers commonly walk on uneven and unpredictable terrain. Because of that, they frequently step on sharp stones that would badly hurt their feet if it reached the foot. The shank provides invaluable protection to construction workers or other professionals who are under the risk of stepping on sharp objects such as nails or broken glass. Essentially, the shank is an impenetrable barrier between the most vulnerable part of your foot and the sharp object.
FAQ about Work Boots for Plantar Fasciitis
1. How do I pick the right size of work boots for myself?
Picking the right size is important. The chances are that you already know what shoe size you wear, but that’s not always a reliable number since manufacturers sometimes use different sized molds to make their shoes. That’s why you should always double-check whether the shoe you’re eyeing runs true to size. If not – you should consult the standardized, unchangeable values and measure your foot in inches.
Essentially, you should take the measurement between the edge of your heel and the longest toe. This is easy if you draw an outline of your foot on a piece of paper. Then, you can compare the values on the manufacturer’s sizing charts, and get the shoe that truly fits your foot!
2. Should I use my work boots for everyday errands and walks?
Work boots are frequently heavy, and rather rigid. But after you break them in, a high-quality pair can become the most comfortable pair of shoes you’ve even worn. Still, you should stay away from wearing them for too long – too much of a good thing can be bad. After 8 to 12 hours at work, you should really give your feet a break. Wear something lightweight and more breathable. We recommend a pair of sandals or sneakers. Furthermore, you must let your shoes dry completely between wearing. Even if you don’t have issues with sweaty feet, over the course of a workday, a lot of sweat collects within your shoes. Because of that, you must let them air dry completely to prevent bacterial and fungal growth.
3. How do I clean my work boots?
The most common materials for work boots are leather, nubuck, or suede, so you should treat your work boots in a similar way as you would clean your dress shoes.
- If there’s some mud on the upper part of the shoe, you should let it dry. That way, it’ll be much easier to remove it without soiling the rest of the shoe. If the mud is on the sole, you should submerge the soles in a bowl of soapy water. Both dish soap or clothes detergent are ok. Then, brush it out with a brush.
- After you remove mud and big chunks of dirt, you can clean the upper with a dry or moist cloth. If necessary, you can use a bit of leather cleaner (or dish soap) on a cloth to get rid of stains.
- Next, take out the insoles if removable and wash them in a bowl of soapy water from time to time.
- Always let your boots air dry. Don’t use a blow dryer, a radiator, or any other type of heat source to try to speed up drying. Heat can irreversibly damage leather.
- After your boots are dry, spray them with a waterproofing spray.
Wrap Up
A good pair of work boots can turn a painful daily experience into an enjoyable daily routine. Living with plantar fasciitis is not easy. Especially not when you need to stand for long hours on end, and put yourself at risk from occupational hazards. The best work boots for plantar fasciitis can address both issues. They help make your heel pain manageable and promote healing, while protecting you from various dangers like chemical burns, falling objects, and high voltages.
We hope we helped you find the right pair for you among our selected models available on the market today. We also hope that you learned everything you need to know about selecting the perfect pair. If you still have any questions, or you have an experience with work boots that you’d like to share, feel welcome to leave a comment!
