There’s no question that clogs and Crocs are amazing. We love the way they slide right on without laces and straps, softly cradle our tired feet, and take us everywhere from the beach to the grocery store.
But we all know that the things we love aren’t always good for us. And many people have questions about whether Crocs and clogs are actually good for plantar fasciitis.
Don’t worry — we won’t tell you to toss your favorite pair of Crocs or clogs. But there are a few things you should know!
Are Clogs Good for Plantar Fasciitis?
Clogs have been around for a very long time–and with good reason! Wooden clogs were worn by the Dutch while they farmed long hours on their feet, and people around the world have adopted them since–including people who suffer from plantar fasciitis!
It’s important to remember that not all clogs are created equal. Some can be a lifesaver for painful heels, while others can actually make your plantar fasciitis worse.
Benefits of Clogs for Plantar Fasciitis
You can find a staggering array of different clogs — from lightweight trendy slippers to orthopedic clogs made especially for professionals who spend a lot of time on their feet.
The right pair of clogs can offer easy-on, easy-off casual footwear that cradles and cushions sore heels, doesn’t compress your toes while you walk, and supports your damaged arch.
Clogs designed for working professionals or orthopedic support are ideal for individuals with plantar fasciitis. Choose clogs with a thick, cushioned sole, clear arch support, and a comfortable fit that leaves you plenty of room in the toe box but doesn’t slide around while you walk.
Drawbacks of Clogs for Plantar Fasciitis
Most of the drawbacks of wearing clogs for plantar fasciitis come from choosing the wrong type of clog or wearing a shoe that doesn’t fit properly. Ill-fitting or cheaply made shoes can place additional strain on your damaged arch, or cause additional wear to an already damaged heel pad.
Avoid clogs with a hard, thin sole and opt for a cushioned, thick sole with clear arch support. You’ll also want to make sure your clogs fit properly and don’t cause your foot to slide around too much while you walk (another hallmark of cheaper fashion clogs). A comfortably loose fit in the toe box is ideal, but your heel should be cupped securely, resting below the ball of the foot when you stand in the shoe.
Are Crocs Good for Plantar Fasciitis?
Crocs, which were originally made as non-slip, waterproof shoes for boating, have quickly become a popular choice for plantar fasciitis sufferers.
Benefits of Crocs for Plantar Fasciitis
Like clogs, Crocs come in a wide number of colors, styles, and brands! Some crocs are now made especially for individuals with heel pain, while others are meant to be worn as a casual, colorful waterproof shoe.
The right pair of crocs can help protect your feet, cushion your heel, and support your arch in situations that you might otherwise go barefoot (like the beach, pool, in the yard, or on a boat).
Crocs are typically extremely lightweight, breathable, and promote circulation which can be an advantage over clogs, especially in the summertime — or for individuals with diabetes. And like clogs, Crocs have lots of room in the toe box to promote a natural, healthy gait that doesn’t compress the toes.
Potential Drawbacks of Crocs for Plantar Fasciitis
Crocs weren’t meant to be running shoes, or even walking shoes for long distances. Don’t wear them while you walk or stand for long periods of time. Instead, opt for running shoes with orthotic inserts, which will offer better arch support and cushioning.
You’ll also want to be wary of “fashion crocs,” which are typically thinner, less cushioned, don’t have much in the way of arch support, and are less structurally stable while you walk.
Make sure you choose a pair of Crocs that has a supportive heel cup, arch support, and a thick, cushioned sole (instead of thinner plastic that may bend or distort as you walk).
How to Make Your Fashion Crocs or Clogs Better for Plantar Fasciitis
Have a pair of trendy Crocs or clogs you love — that aren’t exactly compatible with your plantar fasciitis because of a hard, thin sole or lack of arch support? There’s no need to toss your favorite pair of shoes.
Just add arch support and heel cushioning with Heel Seat Wraps. These lightweight, comfortable wraps can be worn all by themselves, or with almost any pair of shoes (including open toed sandals!) to help align and support a compromised arch, and soothe a damaged heel pad.
Clogs Designed Specifically for People with Heel Pain
When looking for a new pair of clogs, your safest bet is to buy clogs that are designed specifically for people with plantar fasciitis and other forms of heel pain.
Heel Seat Clogs are the only clogs on the market that use technology that is patented and clinically proven for heel pain. The Fascia Bar sits right at the base of the heel where your arch meets your heel bone, lifting and realigning the plantar fascia ligament and providing gentle acupressure into a common pain hotspot. They also fit more snugly to the bottom of your foot than other clog designs to ensure that you constantly have the support your feet need.
If you have plantar fasciitis, clogs and Crocs can make long hours on your feet more bearable and comfortable–as long as they have the proper arch support, cushioning, and fit! That’s where Heel Seat Clogs come in! But even if your favorite pair of crocs or clogs lack arch support or cushioning, there’s still hope. Just add a pair of Heel Seat Wraps, so you can continue to wear the shoes you love without worrying about making your heel pain worse!
