Search for shoes for plantar fasciitis and you'll find sneakers, clogs and chunky orthopedic sandals. They're great for the supermarket. They're not what you want to wear to a wedding, a birthday dinner or a night out.
The founder of Sunday Soles has lived with chronic heel pain for years. Over time she worked out a short list of rules a dressy shoe has to pass before she'll wear it. Here they are.
Rule 1: A small lift, 3–5 cm
Not flat, and not a stiletto. A low wedge gives you a little height and takes some of the stretch off the back of the foot, while spreading your weight across the whole sole.
Rule 2: A shaped footbed
Look inside the shoe. If the footbed is completely flat, your arch has nothing to rest on. A gentle curve under the arch makes a big difference over a long night.
Rule 3: Cushioning under the heel
Press your thumb into the heel of the footbed. You want a little give, not a hard board.
Rule 4: A strap at the back
Backless shoes make your toes grip to keep them on. A back strap, especially an elastic one, lets your foot move naturally.
Rule 5: Pretty enough to wear out
Put the sparkle in the straps: jewels, rhinestones and metallics. They look just as special as a heel in photos.
Where to start
Start with our Dressy Wedges, or our Wedding Shoes for the big day. Not sure which suits you? Try the 30-second Find Your Fit quiz.
General information only, not medical advice. If your pain is severe, getting worse or lasts more than a few weeks, please see a doctor or podiatrist.