Brooks is an American company that’s also known as Brooks sports and Brooks Running. The brand has been in existence for over a century, with globally available products in over 60 countries. They are responsible for some of the best high-performance running shoes for both men and women. The brand also deals with accessories and clothing that are also highly regarded in the sports world.
Over the years Brooks shoes have also gained popularity as reliable recovery shoes, thanks to the company’s continuous innovation. Some of the shoe technologies the brand uses include; DNA LOFT, BioMoGo DNA midsoles, Quad-density EVA foam, and Diagonal rollbar medical post support.
The brand analyzes your unique running style to determine how much support you will need. That is part of the many reasons why their support shoes are highly recommended. This article reviews the best Brooks shoes for plantar fasciitis. You can rest assured that you are going to find the right pair of shoes for your recovery.
Our Recommendation (For Men)
- External heel counter for stability
- Useful in a diverse range of terrain
- Effective stable grip
Our Recommendation (For Women)
- Comfortable all day wearing experience
- DNA loft cushioning
- Streamlined profile
Men’s Brook Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
1. Brooks Men’s Beast ’16
We start our list with one of the best Brooks running shoes for plantar fasciitis. The Brooks Men’s Beast ’16 is an excellent fit for severe overpronators.
They have high-level cushioning and are optimized for motion control. Users also get adjustable support, thanks to the shoes’ external structured saddle.
Product Highlights
When running, you will notice that your forefoot movement is more natural compared to when wearing other shoes. The shoes have Omega Flex Grooves that are responsible for such fluid movements.
The Brooks Men’s Beast ’16 also has the following features:
- External heel counter for stability
- Element mesh lining
- Premium wet-dry traction
The Good/ What I like
The shoes’ Abrasion-resistant HPR Plus rubber outsoles will serve you well.
The Bad/ What I don’t like
The shoes run smaller than other Brooks shoes.
Pros
- Generally stable ride
- Effective grip
- Useful in a diverse range of terrain
Cons
- Upper shell size lacks consistency
2. Brooks Men’s Addiction Walker V-Strap Walking Shoes
These Brooks shoes are an excellent fit for people looking for enhanced support for lower arches. They feature supple full grain leather for added comfort and stability. For a custom fit, they come with dual hook closures, including padded collars and tongues.
Product Highlights
The Addiction Walker V-Strap shoes deliver a soft and cozy custom ride built with consideration of men of all speeds, sizes, and foot shapes.
The walking shoes also come loaded with the following features;
- Energy returning MOGO midsole cushioning
- Removable inner sole for accommodating orthotics
- A linear platform
The Good/ What I like
They are comfortable to walk in for extended periods.
The Bad/ What I don’t like
The shoe straps are too short to wrap completely over the instep.
Pros
- Slip-on design makes it easy to put on
- Available in both lace and Velcro
- Supportive in versatile conditions
Cons
- Bulkier than they look
3. Brooks Men’s Ravenna 9
The Brooks Men’s Ravenna 9 shoes are an excellent choice for daily runs. They are lightweight and offer flexible support for running on roads as well as other surfaces.
Users can adjust the shoes’ synthetic saddles, which wrap their feet from heel to toe for a secure fit. For closure purposes, you can lace up the shoes. They also have wrap-around collars and padded interiors for extra comfort.
Product Highlights
The Ravenna 9 deliver speed without compromising on fit and comfort. The midsole construction makes them bouncier and lighter than the legacy model. There is also a noted improvement on their heightened performance, especially on steeper and uneven road surfaces. Notable features include;
- Two 0z. lighter than the Ravenna 8
- Universal 1/2 Sprung Platform
- Full-length S-257 Cushsole midsole and insole board combine to enhance stability
The Good/ What I like
No need to break them in; they are comfortable right out of the box.
The Bad/ What I don’t like
Tight fitting toe box even after running for a couple of miles.
Pros
- Subtle stability features
- Soft yet snug upper fitting
- Gives the user a springy gait
Cons
- Lacks support necessary for daily training
4. Brooks Men’s Beast 14
The Beast 14’s give an entirely new meaning to road rage. They are built for reinforced stability, offering unbeatable performance.
The shoes also have a soft fabric lining for moisture management. Their shock liner technology will also keep your feet dry and fresh.
Product Highlights
They have elemental weaving mesh and lining that ensure your feet get optimal coverage. The mesh repels water and maintains coolness while keeping you dry. What makes the shoes stand out is the fact that their midsole density is tuned for gender and weight compensation.
Other features include:
- Filled innersole
- Diagonal rollbar medical post support
- Quad-density EVA foam
The Good/ What I like
The shoes have cushioning gels that adapt to the wearer’s feet for added support.
The Bad/ What I don’t like
They are slightly heavier than the predecessor model.
Pros
- Adaptable inner cushioning
- High-quality material and finish
- Adequate support especially on arches
Cons
- The outsole is not durable
5. Brooks Men’s Beast ’18
This particular pair of shoes are designed to give your feet sufficient support for a running start. The shoes are biochemically engineered for continuous support.
You can use them whether you are running or walking regardless of the weather. Their construction features no-sew overlays, which provide comfort and support without making the shoes too heavy.
Product Highlights
The shoes have extended progressive diagonal rollbars that aid in getting your body into a natural motion path. They also come with super DNA midsoles, which are more adaptable than standard cushioning.
The Brooks Men’s Beast ’18 also have the following features:
- Three rubber outsoles
- DRB Accel stability features
- External heel counters
The Good/ What I like
They have underfoot cushioning systems that alleviate ankle and foot soreness.
The Bad/ What I don’t like
Bland color and design scheme may not appeal to everyone’s sense of aesthetics.
Pros
- Comes recommended for plantar fasciitis
- Offers great ride stability
- Exceptional outsole gripping
Cons
- Has inconsistent upper sizing
6. Brooks Men’s Launch 5
These are the kind of shoes you need to take your running experience to the next level. The shoes have a lot to offer, making them ideal for both competitive and habitual runners.
They feature durable materials and evoke positive feedback for their responsiveness and all-terrain performance.
Product Highlights
The launch 5 shoe design consists of a completely overhauled upper. As such they are vented for an airy fit. They also have the softest midsole foams that will make you feel like you’re running on clouds. Your toes also won’t feel cramped inside the shoes thanks to their generously proportioned toe box.
Other impactful features include:
- Blown rubber outsole and forefoot for enhanced flexibility
- Single-piece mesh upper construction for a proper fit
- A midfoot transition zone for the optimal toe-heel transition
The Good/ What I like
The bootie construction gives the user an enhanced all-day comfort.
The Bad/ What I don’t like
The arch construction makes this shoe too high for some users.
Pros
- Visually appealing and stylish
- Built with consideration for flat-footed users
- Lightweight
Cons
- The upper section of the shoe is super tight
7. Brooks Men’s Ghost 11
These Ghost 11 shoes have advanced features which accommodate runners that barely or sparsely pronate. They don’t stand out in terms of aesthetic appeal, but they more than make up for this with their dependability and practicability.
Product Highlights
You can comfortably use the Ghost 11 trainers on a daily basis. The shoes have a Caterpillar Crash Pad that is tailored to meet the specific needs of users susceptible to plantar fasciitis.
These shoes’ upper mesh is engineered to stretch when needed, making them exceptionally comfortable. Other additional features include:
- Fully integrated crash pad
- Omega flex grooves for natural forefoot movement and fluidity
- Comfortable and effortless run
The Good/ What I like
These shoes have adequate midsole cushioning to prevent foot pain and muscle stiffness.
The Bad/ What I don’t like
The shoes’ heel-to-toe inclination makes it a bit uncomfortable.
Pros
- Medium-high arch support
- High energizing cushioning
- Accommodates all foot landing
Cons
- Comes with short shoelaces
8. Brooks Men’s Glycerin 14
Experience a plush interior and abundant support with the Glycerin 14 shoes. The shoes are one of the best Brooks shoes for plantar fasciitis due to several reasons.
One of their main features is their TPU cages. The TPU cages stretch to provide users with an enhanced custom fit.
Product Highlights
The shoes also feature well-articulated outsoles that facilitate height flexibility. Their outsoles have expanded rubber that makes their grip and cushioning light. It also has ideal pressure zones distributed from the heels through the toes of the outsoles. The distribution of the pressure zones helps maximize flexibility.
The shoes have other features such as;
- Large reflective panel
- 3D stretch print construction
- A padded tongue that provides bracing from lacing pressure
The Good/ What I like
The shoes have a lush interior, which makes them extremely comfortable.
The Bad/ What I don’t like
They make squeaky noises when you run, especially in wet conditions.
Pros
- Maximum cushioning
- Sock-like fit
- Tuned Density Midsole
Cons
- They feel Bulky to some users
9. Brooks Men’s Addiction Walker Walking Shoes
The Addiction Walker Brooks walking shoes for plantar fasciitis are a lace-up alternative to their v-strap model. They are durable assuring you of years of service. The shoes also come in 3 solid colors.
Product Highlights
They feature proprietary cushioning that adapts to any speed, stride, and weight. The Addiction walking shoes also protect users from impact by deflecting impact away from their body.
Key features include;
- Diagonal rollbar supports
- Strategically placed arch supports
- Certified (ASTM) slip-resistant outsoles
The Good/ What I like
These shoes accommodate custom orthotics.
The Bad/ What I don’t like
The general design seems chunky.
Pros
- Pairs well with casual wear
- Provides adequate foothold
- Excellent grip and traction
Cons
- Lace and tongue are not as secure as other models
10. Brooks Men’s Glycerin 15
The Brooks Men’s Glycerin 15 shoes are an update to the already proven Glycerine 14 shoes. The shoes are built for mileage, comfort, and a smooth ride.
Product Highlights
The shoes’ upper design is a 3D stretch print saddle, which enhances flexibility. They also have updated midsoles for better impact absorption.
The Glycerin shoes have the following additional features;
- 4-way stretch overlays and uppers
- Traction zones on the outsoles
- Sleek appearance
The Good/ What I like
Users with existing foot problems have claimed to notice improvements in their conditions.
The Bad/ What I don’t like
The shoes offer inadequate arch support.
Pros
- Sufficient cushioning
- Stretchy design
- Ideal pressure points
Cons
- Pointy toe box makes the shoes uncomfortable for users with wide feet
Women’s Brooks Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
1. Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 19
The Adrenaline GTS 19 Brooks Women’s shoes for plantar fasciitis have a streamline construction. These shoes offer adequate cushioning for runners that need support in countering overpronation.
Product Highlights
The shoes offer a secure overall ride as they wrap around the foot without irritating the user. They are comfortable from the get-go, and the price tag does not upstage the general quality of the shoes.
Other significant features include;
- DNA loft cushioning
- Streamlined profile
- Asymmetrical 3D fit print saddle
The Good/ What I like
The Adrenaline GTS 19 shoes are not bulky.
The Bad/ What I don’t like
They are half a size smaller than expected.
Pros
- Comfortable all day wearing experience
- Perfect recovery shoes
- Segmented crash pad
Cons
- Lacks the agility needed for sprinting
2. Brooks Women’s Addiction Walker Walking Shoes
The walking shoes have adequate support for low arches. What makes them popular is the fact that they have features that make them suitable for multipurpose use. Users can choose to walk, run, or even wear them casually.
Product Highlights
The shoes have a sole unit that gives users a steady walk. Overall, Brooks has stuck to the same trusted design. However, they have significantly updated the shoes’ materials and features.
Some of the features worth noting include:
- Accommodation for custom orthotics
- Certified (ASTM) slip resistant outsole
- Forefoot MC pod construction
The Good/ What I like
The walking shoes fit true to size.
The Bad/ What I don’t like
The outsole falls a bit short on traction.
Pros
- Great motion control
- Multipurpose design and use
- Few pressure points
Cons
- Stuffy interior
3. Brooks Women’s Addiction 13
The Brooks Women’s Addiction 13 shoes offer exceptional support and a base for correcting a variety of feet conditions. You count on them for smoother landings thanks to their Heel Segmented Crash Pads.
Product Highlights
These shoes have features that consider heavyset users like the shape-retaining underfoot platform. The stability mechanisms in this model also guide a user’s gait.
The Addiction 13 also offers:
- Silky smooth fabric lining
- HPR Plus delivers enhanced durability in high-wear areas like the outsoles
- Plush cushioning and maximum support
The Good/ What I like
Great for high intensity and speed training.
The Bad/ What I don’t like
Eyelets on the shell rub on skin, creating uneven cold and hot spots.
Pros
- Keeps your feet cool
- Wears well
- Robust support for overpronators
Cons
- Coarse heel
4. Brooks Women’s Ariel ’16 Overpronation Stability Running Shoe
As the name suggests, the shoes are ideally for overpronators. The shoes also have GuideRails that keep excessive movement in check. You will end up saving a lot of energy thanks to the GuideRails feature.
Product Highlights
They offer sufficient cushioning and underfoot softness without compromising on durability and responsiveness. These shoes also incorporate innovative technology to provide users with a modern fit.
Other important features include;
- Smooth toe to heel inclination
- DRB® Accel shank-like unit
- Symmetrical saddle
The Good/ What I like
Outstanding arch support and stability features.
The Bad/ What I don’t like
The shoes are stiffer than their predecessors.
Pros
- Moisture management
- Rounded heals to accommodate diverse foot widths
- Features ballistic rock shielding
Cons
- Available in a single color
5. Brooks Women’s Revel
When searching for Brooks shoes good for plantar fasciitis, you will definitely come across the Revel women’s model. They are the perfect combination of quality designs and smart technologies. They also look great and perform exceptionally well on daily runs.
Product Highlights
They have a bootie construction and a flatly knit engineered upper. The Revel shoes also guarantee smooth segmented landings that ease heel to toe transition.
Some additional features include;
- Heat-activated yearns
- 90-day return policy
- Updated knit upper
The Good/ What I like
The shoes will not stretch even as time passes by. They will retain their shape all through.
The Bad/ What I don’t like
The shoes are not recommended for speed training.
Pros
- Extra heel padding
- Great for flat feet
- Minimalist design
Cons
- Their durability is questionable
6. Brooks Women’s Ghost 11
You can count on the Brooks Women’s Ghost 11 shoes for support even when it’s raining. They have a waterproof membrane feature in their construction. The Ghost 11 shoes are not as unique when it comes to aesthetics. However, the shoes more than make up for this with their dependability.
Product Highlights
They provide medium-high arch support, and their upper mesh is engineered to stretch when needed. The shoes also have softer underfoot compared to those of earlier versions.
Other features include;
- Shock absorption padding
- Built for road running
- Long life service
The Good/ What I like
Their length and width ratio fit most foot profiles.
The Bad/ What I don’t like
They have a limited number of color schemes.
Pros
- Suited to both running and walking
- Great for runners with knee issues
- Roomy interior
Cons
- High hill to toe drop
7. Brooks Women’s Ariel 14
The Ariel 14 Brooks shoes are built for moderate to severe over-pronators who need a mix of stability and cushioning. These shoes also have a silky soft fabric and padded interior for additional comfort.
Product Highlights
The shoes have the updated BIOMOGO midsoles for supple cushioning and comfortable ride. They also feature Full-length BrooksDNA midsoles for responsiveness.
Other features to note are;
- Moisture-managing elemental mesh
- Sockliner technology to keep your feet cool
- Thick laces for easier fastening
The Good/ What I like
The Ariel 14 has options for extreme pronators with dense mid-soles.
The Bad/ What I don’t like
Pebbles get stuck in the groves of the sole.
Pros
- Excellent ratings across online vendor platforms
- Quality materials
- Very breathable
Cons
- Bland color scheme
8. Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 19
The Adrenaline GTS 19 not only look great, but they also offer proven support to users going through rehabilitation. These shoes provide an excellent fit for users with, particularly narrow feet.
Product Highlights
The shoes have synthetic mesh with stellar cushioning. They also have tri-density midsoles that support enhanced pronation control.
Additional features include;
- Flextra rubber outsole for a varied degree of support
- 1 oz. lighter than the Glycerin 13.
- Good weather insulation
The Good/ What I like
They have flexible midsoles which provide support without their predecessor’s rigidness.
The Bad/ What I don’t like
Users with high ankles are prone to shin splints.
Pros
- Updated features
- Well-run upper mesh
- Flexible cushioning
Cons
- The upper section of the shoe is super tight
9. Brooks Women’s Launch 4
You are certainly going to take a liking to the shoes because they are appealing, lightweight, and durable. The shoes feature long-lasting materials, with consistent performance across different types of terrain.
Product Highlights
The Brooks Women’s Launch 4 shoes will make you feel more agile as you run. All your steps will feel springy as well.
Other important features include;
- Updated U-Groove design
- Rebounding for springy underfoot feel
- Breezy upper mesh
The Good/ What I like
They offer sufficient support for daily runners.
The Bad/ What I don’t like
The high arch sole may be uncomfortable for some users.
Pros
- Versatility allows for high tempo running
- Affordable price
- Well executed color combinations
Cons
- No width options
Buyer’s Guide
Having the right amount of knowledge will help you make more informed purchasing decisions. You won’t regret wasting your money, and you will be on the right track to recovery. Consider the following factors before making your selection:
1. Heel drop
Examine how your shoe is inclined. Most shoes have heels that are raised above the toe. A high slope forces you to land on the front or middle part of your foot. A shoe with zero drops lets you land on your heel. Reason being, your toe and heels will be on the same level.
2. Cushioning
An insole with plush cushioning lessens the impact on your foot as you run. For that reason, you will feel less pain. Structured cushioning also inclines your foot to be in a healthier position, as well as prevents irregular pronation.
3. Toe box
Toes come in different shapes and sizes. When you have plantar fasciitis, it’s imperative that you find shoes with an ample toe box. Toes naturally spread out, to distribute impact and improve your balance. Whereas people in good physical shape might tolerate a tight fit, it might end up worsening your condition.
4. Sole
The main work of the sole is to reduce and absorb shocks. Therefore, look for a pair which uniformly distributes the shock from the impact. If not, you will end up aggravating your heel.
FAQs
1. Does plantar fasciitis ever go away?
Yes, it does. The good thing about the condition is that it is temporary. By taking the necessary precautions and handling your feet with extra care, you can make the condition go away faster. That is why you have to be critical when selecting a good pair of support shoes.
2. What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?
The most common indicators are pain and stiffness around the heel area. You can also tell something is off if you feel unusual pain while taking on regular tasks. At this point, even going up the stairs will feel unbearable. Make sure you consult your physician if you start exhibiting such symptoms.
3. What causes plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is caused by the inflammation of the tissue on the bottom part of your foot called Plantar Fascia. People who are susceptible to the condition include runners, overweight people, those who stand for long hours, and individuals who wear shoes that do not have proper alignment.
4. Are Brooks shoes expensive?
Brooks running shoes are available in a wide range of prices. You should first set aside the budget you are ready to work with. Afterward, select a pair of shoes that fall within the price limits in your budget. Fortunately, the review also has a variety of affordable shoes that you can choose from.
5. Can anyone get plantar fasciitis?
As mentioned earlier, certain people are at a higher risk of getting plantar fasciitis. However, the condition is not limited to the said individuals. Be mindful of your weight, do not over train, and wear appropriately cushioned and aligned shoes at all times, to be on the safe side.
Conclusion
Our top selection for the Best Brooks for plantar fasciitis is the Brooks Men’s Beast ’16 and the Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 19. The Men’s Beast ’16 offers high-level cushioning, fluid movements and stability, to mention a few. The Women’s Adrenaline GTS 19 are quality shoes that have DNA loft cushioning and a sleek profile.
For women seeking an affordable option, the Brooks Women’s Ariel ’16 running shoes are worth considering. The shoes have GuideRails that help limit excessive movement and are an excellent fit for overpronators. The men’s Brooks Men’s Launch 5 also comes at a pocket-friendly price. The shoes are all-terrain, responsive and extremely comfortable.