Foot Pain & The Best Footwear Choices: Advice From Our Podiatry Perth Team

Foot pain affects people of all ages and lifestyles, and when not managed properly, it can significantly interrupt daily movement and activity. As a clinician working in Podiatry Perth, Dr Sam Steel (Pod) and his colleagues frequently see conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, and forefoot pain—many of which are made worse by poor footwear choices.

Although treatment may involve strengthening, stretching, and orthotics, one of the fastest and most effective changes a person can make is choosing the right pair of shoes. Below, our podiatrist Sam outlines the best footwear options for the most common foot conditions we see in the clinic.

These are of course a general guide. If you want to be sure you are choosing the best shoe for you, why not book in with Sam for a running analysis. While identifying your best running shoe, you can also dial in your running technique to improve your efficiency and reduce injury.

Running analysis with foot pressure assessment at Star Physio

Plantar Fasciitis — Best Shoes for Heel Pain

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. Symptoms typically include a sharp, stabbing pain beneath the heel, often worse during the first few steps in the morning.

The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that supports the arch and absorbs shock during movement. When overloaded, it becomes irritated and inflamed—especially near the heel.

What to Look for in a Plantar Fasciitis Shoe

• Firm arch support
• Cushioned heel for impact absorption
• Moderate heel-to-toe drop to reduce plantar fascia strain
• Stable heel counter to control foot motion

Recommended Shoes

• Asics Gel Kayano – Excellent stability, firm arch support, and a 10 mm heel drop.
• Hoka Bondi – Highly cushioned with a rocker sole that reduces strain.
• New Balance 860 – Ideal for flatter feet, offering strong medial stability.

Achilles Tendinopathy — Footwear to Reduce Tendon Load

Achilles tendinopathy affects the tendon connecting the calf to the heel bone. It can occur at the tendon’s insertion or in its mid-portion and is commonly aggravated by walking, running, or stair climbing.

A higher heel drop in footwear reduces tension on the Achilles tendon, making it a key consideration for anyone with ongoing pain.

Key Footwear Features

• 10–12 mm heel-to-toe drop
• Strong rearfoot control
• Supportive, cushioned midsole

Recommended Shoes

• Brooks Adrenaline – 12 mm heel drop and “Guiderail Technology” to reduce excess motion.
• Mizuno Wave Rider – Strong cushioning and rearfoot stability; ideal with orthotics.
• Asics Gel Kayano (previous version) – Provides an additional 2 mm of heel drop, reducing Achilles load.

Forefoot Pain — Shoes That Reduce Pressure and Provide Space

Forefoot pain may result from bunions, osteoarthritis, plantar plate injuries, intermetatarsal neuromas, bursitis, or general irritation from tight shoes. Footwear that is too narrow or lacks cushioning can significantly worsen symptoms.

Helpful Footwear Features

• Wide and deep toe box
• Rocker sole to reduce forefoot pressure during toe-off
• Soft, cushioned midsole

Recommended Shoes

• Brooks Ghost Max – Wide forefoot, rocker profile, and high-stack cushioning.
• Asics Gel Nimbus – Plush cushioning and a breathable mesh upper.
• Hoka Clifton – Rocker sole with a roomy toe box, ideal for neuromas and bursitis.

When to See a Perth Podiatrist at Star Physio

The right pair of shoes can make a huge difference—but footwear alone may not fully resolve foot pain. If symptoms continue, Star Physio Podiatry Perth team can assess your biomechanics, identify the underlying cause, and develop a personalised treatment plan that may include strengthening, load modification, or custom orthotics.

Why not book here now to see Sam at our West Perth or Mosman Park Clinic. Note, our foot pressure analysis is only available at the West Perth Clinic.