Top New Balance Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis in 2026 [Expert Comfort Picks]

The Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 immediately caught my eye with its plush cushioning and thoughtful design. The Fresh Foam X midsole with bio-based content feels like walking on clouds, which is exactly what you want when dealing with plantar fasciitis. I liked how the gusseted tongue keeps debris out, which is a small detail but makes a difference for comfort over long walks.

I found these shoes great for longer wear, especially if you need that extra softness underfoot. The adjustable lace closure meant I could fine-tune the fit without pressure points. Compared to the 880 V15, the 1080 felt a bit softer and more forgiving, which I think works better if your feet are sensitive.

The synthetic and engineered mesh upper also offered good breathability, which kept my feet cool during extended use. Overall, these felt supportive without being stiff, which is a tricky balance to strike.

If you’re after a shoe that offers a bit more structure, the 880 V15 is a solid pick. It still uses that Fresh Foam X cushioning that makes walking comfortable but adds a more supportive upper which really helps with foot stability.

I noticed this shoe gave me a confident step, especially when I needed to be on my feet for hours. The structured upper meant my feet felt locked in without being tight or restrictive. It’s a bit less plush than the 1080 but feels more secure, which might be better if your plantar fasciitis flares up with too much softness.

Between these two, I’d say the 880 is a good middle ground if you want cushioning but not the cloud-like feel of the 1080. It’s like the shoe version of a comfy yet supportive hug.

The 860 V14 is known for its stability, which is a huge plus for plantar fasciitis sufferers who tend to overpronate. The Fresh Foam X midsole offers cushioned comfort, but what really stands out is the supportive design built to keep your foot aligned.

I appreciated the durable rubber outsole that seemed ready for everyday wear, whether walking around town or light jogging. The 8 mm drop is a nice middle ground that keeps your foot in a natural position, plus the adjustable laces let you lock in a secure fit.

Compared to the Roav models, the 860 felt a bit more performance-focused but without sacrificing comfort. It’s a great choice if you want something stable but still cushy.

The Fresh Foam Roav caught my attention mainly for its ultra heel design and bootie construction, which wrap your foot snugly but comfortably. The plush Fresh Foam midsole absorbs shock well, which is exactly what you want when plantar fasciitis pain strikes.

I tried these for casual daily wear and appreciated how the removable insole with arch support adapted to my foot shape. That’s a nice touch because custom support can be crucial for managing heel pain. The NDurance outsole also felt durable, so I wasn’t worried about wearing them down quickly.

Compared to the 860 or the 1080, the Roav felt a bit more like a versatile everyday sneaker rather than a pure running shoe. If you want comfort for daily errands or work, this is a solid choice.

This V1 version of the Roav is quite similar to the previous model but felt a touch lighter on my feet, which helped during extended wear. The cushioning still impresses with that Fresh Foam midsole, and the ultra heel design keeps your foot secure without feeling squeezed.

I liked the bootie construction’s sock-like feel, which made slipping these on a breeze, and the arch-supporting removable insole was a welcome feature for foot pain relief. For someone who wants comfort with a lighter shoe, this fits the bill nicely.

Between this and the 574 Core Sneaker, the Roav V1 felt more modern and cushioned, while the 574 leans more retro and supportive in a different way.

The 574 Core Sneaker is a classic New Balance style that doesn’t skimp on comfort. It uses EVA midsole foam with some bio-based material, which is a nice nod to sustainability. The ENCAP midsole cushioning combines soft foam with a sturdy polyurethane rim, offering solid support for plantar fasciitis.

I enjoyed wearing these when I wanted something less sporty and more casual but still supportive. The suede and mesh upper gave me a comfortable, breathable fit, and the adjustable laces helped me get a snug feel without pressure.

Compared to the Fresh Foam models, the 574 has a firmer feel but still manages to support your foot well. If you want something that looks good and feels good for everyday wear, this is worth considering.

The Arishi V4 feels like a nice balance between a running shoe and a daily trainer. The Fresh Foam midsole cushions every step nicely, and the no-sew construction keeps the weight down while boosting durability.

I liked how breathable the mesh upper was, which kept my feet dry during workouts or longer walks. The lace-up closure feels reliable and secure, so no worries about your shoes loosening up mid-activity.

Compared to some of the more cushioned Fresh Foam models, the Arishi is lighter and more versatile, which makes it a good pick if you want a shoe that transitions well from exercise to errands.