The best cushioned running shoes for plantar fasciitis and long runs
The most cushioned running shoes for heel pain, for long runs and high mileage with plantar fasciitis.
Quick answer
For long runs with plantar fasciitis, our top pick is the HOKA Bondi 9, RunRepeat's "best shock absorption" pick for plantar fasciitis. The Saucony Ride 19 and Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 are close behind. Long runs are where a sore heel tends to flare up, so we favour the most cushioned shoes that still feel stable.
Our picks
- Top match£160
Bondi 9
- Plush, high-stack cushioning
- Built for road miles
- A go-to for long runs
Fit True to size
RunRepeat“Best shock absorption” for plantar fasciitis (Sept 2026)
297g 5mm drop
- Strong alternative£140
Ride 19
- 8mm drop eases load on calves & Achilles
- Built for road miles
- A go-to for long runs
Fit True to size
RunRepeat“Best overall” for plantar fasciitis (Sept 2026)
255g 8mm drop
- Also great£145
Adrenaline GTS 25
- 10mm drop eases load on calves & Achilles
- Built for road miles
- A go-to for long runs
Fit True to size
RunRepeatWomen's Running“Best stability” for plantar fasciitis (Sept 2026)“Everyday support shoe” for overpronation (Apr 2026)
300g 10mm drop
Our picks
- Top match£160
Bondi 9
- Plush, high-stack cushioning
- Built for road miles
- A go-to for long runs
Fit True to size
RunRepeat“Best shock absorption” for plantar fasciitis (Sept 2026)
263g 5mm drop
- Strong alternative£140
Ride 19
- 8mm drop eases load on calves & Achilles
- Built for road miles
- A go-to for long runs
Fit True to size
RunRepeat“Best overall” for plantar fasciitis (Sept 2026)
218g 8mm drop
- Also great£145
Adrenaline GTS 25
- 10mm drop eases load on calves & Achilles
- Built for road miles
- A go-to for long runs
Fit True to size
RunRepeatWomen's Running“Best stability” for plantar fasciitis (Sept 2026)“Everyday support shoe” for overpronation (Apr 2026)
269g 10mm drop
How they compare
| Shoe | Price | Weight (men's / women's) | Drop | Plate | Wide fit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HOKA Bondi 9 | £160 | 297g / 263g | 5mm | None | Yes |
| Saucony Ride 19 | £140 | 255g / 218g | 8mm | None | Yes |
| Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 | £145 | 300g / 269g | 10mm | None | Yes |
What to look for on long runs
Plenty of cushioning under the heel. NHS leaflets recommend a cushioned heel, and the longer you're on your feet, the more it counts.
Stability as well as softness. Very soft shoes can feel wobbly late in a long run. A wide base keeps the ride steady when you're tired.
A higher heel than forefoot. We favour shoes with 8mm drop or more for heel pain, which sit your heel a little higher.
Build long runs back up gradually
A more cushioned shoe can make long runs more comfortable, but adding distance too quickly is a common cause of heel pain. Increase your longest run gradually, and stop if pain is getting worse rather than settling.
Frequently asked questions
Are max-cushioned shoes good for plantar fasciitis?
Many runners with heel pain find them more comfortable, which fits NHS advice to wear shoes with a cushioned heel. Choose one that also feels stable.
Should I stop long runs with plantar fasciitis?
If pain settles quickly afterwards, many people keep running at a lower volume. If it's getting worse, cut back and get it checked.
When should I see a GP about heel pain?
The NHS says to see a GP if it doesn't improve within two weeks of looking after it yourself.
How we picked
Every shoe we track is scored on cushioning, stability, responsiveness, weight, drop, plate, width options and price. For this guide we ran that scoring for a typical runner with these needs and show the top three. No brand or retailer can pay to appear. How we rank.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. If you're in pain, a GP or physiotherapist can tell you what's causing it.