Gear Riding Tips

7 Comfiest Cowboy Boots for Pain-Free Plantar Fasciitis

plantar fasciitis boots
mm
Written by Natalie Gasper

Meet the Best Western Boots for Heel Pain Relief

Plantar fasciitis can make wearing boots of any kind very uncomfortable. Fortunately, there are plenty of options to keep you in the saddle and around the barn.

Plantar fasciitis can be tricky, but it’s easier to find the right cowboy boot if you know what to look for. You need a boot that has a one- to two-inch heel and a square or wide toe. Choose a brand (like Ariat or Justin) that specializes in good arch support.

If you like a brand that doesn’t have a strong midsole, choose one with a removable insole so you can put in a better one. Waterproof boots are a safe bet if you do a lot of outdoor work or need to stay warm in the winter.

Boot Basics: What to Look for in a Riding Boot

Plantar Fasciitis is essentially inflammation of the thick tissue bad connecting your heel bone and toes. Pain is typically located along the bottom of the foot, including a ‘stabbing pain’ near the heel.

While needing to alleviate discomfort, remember the primary purpose of riding boots—keeping you safe (e.g. protecting toes from being stepped on, keeping the foot from sliding through the stirrup).

That’s why boots that have at least a one-inch heel and grippy rubber sole are essential.

What to Look For:

  • An elevated heel
  • Excellent arch support
  • A firm heel counter

Our Picks for Plantar Fasciitis

Category Option Price Point Key Features
Best Overall Ariat Women’s Heritage Dapper Fatbaby $$ Wide heel offers good support, premium leather
Best Men’s Boot Ariat Men’s Amos Western $$$$ Shock shield technology, excellent arch support
Best Women’s Boot Ariat Ladies Fiona Western $$$ Stylish prints, safe for riding
Best for Summer Justin Ladies Gypsy Raya Square Toe $$ Wide heel, easy to pull on
Best for Winter Dan Post Men’s Albuquerque $$$$ Comes in regular, wide, and extra wide; antimicrobial insole
Best on a Budget Ariat Women’s Fatbaby II $$ Multiple colors, one-and-a-half-inch heel
Best for a Splurge Corral Boots A3753 $$$$ Pure leather, glow-in-the-dark

Ariat Women’s Heritage Dapper Fatbaby

The short shaft and square toe of Ariat’s Heritage Dapper Fatbaby offers a great fitting boot that offers excellent support.

You can ride and work in these boots (or wear them for fun).

ariat fatbaby

Click to see them at Amazon

PROS:

  • 4LR technology (adds both stability and comfort)
  • Extra cushioning in the sole
  • Bold colors make a statement
  • No break-in period

CONS:

  • Not waterproof

See them at Amazon

Ariat Men’s Amos Western

These boots from Ariat offer both style and comfort. The one-and-a-half-inch heel is just the right height for plantar fasciitis.

ariat sorrel

Click to see them at Amazon

PROS:

  • ATS technology
  • Intricate, stylish stitch pattern
  • Foam footbed

CONS:

  • You may need to try more than one size to get the right fit

See them at Amazon

Ariat Ladies Fiona Western

Boots that are good for your feet don’t have to be boring. The Fiona boot combines comfort and style.

ATS technology supports your heel while the insole provides shock absorption and cushioning.

fiona boot ariat

Click to see them at Boot Barn

PROS:

  • High-quality leather
  • Removable insole (in case you prefer or need a different one)
  • Duratread sole

CONS:

  • If you’re tall, the shaft may hit your calf in an awkward place

See them at Boot Barn

Justin Ladies Gypsy Raya Tan Square Toe

Justin has a long history of producing top-quality boots, and these are no exception.

They’re perfect for summer with the fun pop of color and the square toe and heel offer plantar fasciitis support.

justin gypsy boot

Click to see them at State Line Tack

PROS:

  • Affordable
  • Great for riding, working, and going out
  • Features the J-Flex comfort system

CONS:

  • Needs regular cleaning and maintenance

See them at State Line Tack

Dan Post Men’s Albuquerque

These boots are great for working and riding, a handy combo if you spend your days in a ranch setting.

The waterproofing will keep your feet dry, and the orthotic insole provides ample support.

dan post boots

Click to see them at State Line Tack

PROS:

  • Breathability (thanks to the mesh lining)
  • Rubber sole

CONS:

  • They lack the traditional cowboy flair

See it at Amazon

Ariat Women’s Fatbaby II Western

This 100% leather shoe doesn’t just look good, it will feel great on your foot.

The ATS technology, combined with the right-sized heel, will offer you plenty of relief.

ariat fatbaby II

Click to see them at Amazon

PROS:

  • Round toe
  • Comes in half sizes
  • Good fit for wide calves

CONS:

  • This boot has a rubber sole but isn’t slip-resistant certified

See them at Amazon

Corral Boots A3753

These boots are so pretty you won’t want to ride in them (but you could).

The double rose scallop detail is very eye-catching and looks great with dresses, skirts, and jeans.

corral boots

Click to see them at Amazon

PROS:

  • Great fit
  • Beautiful white design (that glows in the dark)
  • Has a taller fit (about mid-calf)

CONS:

  • May need a half-size larger if you have big calves
  • The toe is narrow (may make the boot uncomfortable to wear for long periods)

See them at Amazon

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are cowboy boots good for plantar fasciitis?

A well-made cowboy boot can actually be great for people with plantar fasciitis.

Q: Are cowboy boots good for arches?

Many cowboy boots lack a midsole, so they’re not inherently good for arches. However, some brands (like Ariat) include arch support, and you can also choose an insole that’s good for arches.

Q: Can cowboy boots cause plantar fasciitis?

This depends on the boot. Ones with narrow toes, no arch support, and a low heel can make plantar fasciitis worse. However, boots with a higher heel and good insoles can provide relief.

Q: What are the best boots to wear if you have plantar fasciitis?

Cowboy boots with a higher heel and square toes are your best bets.

Parting Thoughts

Plantar fasciitis doesn’t have to stop you from enjoying a well-made pair of cowboy boots. Any of these options can offer comfort and support.

P.S. Enjoy this article? Trot on over to:

 
Love it? Share it!

About the author

mm

With a bachelor's degree in creative writing from the University of Central Florida and an editing certificate from the University of Washington, my decade-long writing journey has been a kaleidoscope of diverse experiences. I've had the privilege of contributing to a spectrum of platforms, including newspapers, print and online magazines, literary journals, and individual clients on subjects spanning from horse care, gardening, motorcycles, to exploring East Asia.