One thing we know for certain, HuffPost readers love supportive shoes. So whenever we spot a new style that reviewers say helps with plantar fasciitis, we know we need to write about it. Last year’s comfort sandal of choice was the Chaco Chillo. But this year we’ve found an adjustable, slightly dressier option in the form of the KuaiLu women’s orthotic slide, currently going for $24.69 —down from $33.77.
Crafted with faux leather, a yoga mat-inspired insole and a thick, non-slip rubber outsole, these slides are loved for indoor and outdoor wear. Reviewers love the wide selection of colors, but they also love that these kicks actually ease discomfort. A reviewer who gifted a pair to their 77-year-old mother suffering from plantar fasciitis called them “life-changing” and noted, “She didn’t know she could have this kind of foot relief.” Another reviewer with plantar fasciitis and severe arthritis in both feet said, “I can wear these all day long in the house and my feet are not hurting. That is a huge change.”
Users say the superior arch support helps ease plantar fasciitis as well as general foot pain from high arches, arthritis, bunions, neuropathy and even foot surgery.
In previous reporting, board-certified podiatrist Dr. Howard E. Friedman told HuffPost that patients recovering from plantar fasciitis should have supportive shoes on their feet from the moment they wake to when they go to sleep. While he didn’t endorse a partial shoe, he said, “Slides with arch support are helpful since for someone getting out of bed, they are easy to slide into.”
Easy to kick on and off and light on the foot, these KuaiLu sandals were deemed a “glorified flip-flop” by one happy wearer. Unlike flimsy thongs, these slides actually stay on your foot as you move and give immense support and stability. The adjustable side buckle and molded heel cup ensure a secure fit while the memory foam insole is soft without being too squishy.
“Having plantar fasciitis I’ve very much struggled with sandals,” another reviewer said. “These have given me the right amount of support where my feet are not sore at the end of a busy day. And they’re pretty stylish too!”
Running in women’s sizes 5-12, with some half-size options these KuaiLu kicks make great house slippers, walking sandals and even shoes to bring while traveling or to the beach.
Many reviewers mention getting a pair for their aging parent and then getting another for themselves. Others have multiple pairs for themselves. Get yours today, your feet will thank you.
Ready to grab a pair of these orthotic slides for yourself? Read more from some happy customers.
“This is the most comfortable shoe I think I have ever worn! Yet with all of the comfort it really supports my foot. I have bunions (unfortunately) and have had trouble finding comfortable sandals to wear. Imagine my astonishment when I tried these on! Sooo comfortable, has support for my feet and hides my bunions painlessly! I can’t say enough good things about these sandals. Well worth the money!” — Deana Perkins
“I love this shoe. My feet have been my biggest problem most of my life. I am flat footed, obese, have planter facia, and neuropathy. I had about given up on getting a shoe I could wear or even like a little. When this shoe arrived, I was concerned because the inner sole has small ridges inside. I thought for sure that would be the end of the shoe for me. I tried it on, gave it a chance and now I can really say this is the best shoe for anyone with foot problems or not. Thank you for making this shoe!” — annieb13
“I purchased these for my mom who had back and leg issues. They are comfortable once you adjust the straps to your liking. She’s walking better and not tripping up like with other slip on sandals. Great for indoors and outdoors.” — Jennifer Whitehead, MPA
“I Love this sandal. I’ve bought three pair of sandals so far this summer and they end up hurting my feet because I’ve got a callus on the bottom of my foot. This is the only pair I bought that doesn’t hurt my foot and I absolutely love them. I can’t say enough about the sandal very very comfortable soft.” — Candy Gerdau
″ These sandals are incredible!!! The pain in my arches practically disappeared. These sandals are incredibly comfortable! They are very lightweight, but the arch and heel support are so strong. The arch support is not jarring, it’s gradual and the heel part is deep and feels like the sandal is hugging my feet. The pain in my arches practically disappeared. I was shocked at the low price for what they delivered, most orthotics sandals run over $100. I am so happy with this buy!” — LR
“I was looking for a slip-on sandal that would replace my old flip flops which are a dangerous sandal to wear. Needed something light weight and easy to get on. I took a chance an ordered the KuaiLu sandals and couldn’t be more pleased. Perfect fit, so very comfortable, great support, weigh next to nothing and very easy to get on and off. Plus they are very attractive. Great price also. Highly recommend this shoe. Lives up to the description.” — Nancy L. Price
“Yes, they’re lightweight: a reviewer called them “glorified flip-flops.” And in a sense, that’s accurate. However, they are sturdy enough for errands, sight-seeing, etc, and have much more support than a flat flip. Very comfy―-I ordered an 8 and my feet are wide―-tada! Perfect fit and no pressure on right bunion. Material is man-made, but not cheap-looking (I ordered brown), and the white top-stitching adds extra style. I’m ga-ga over them.” — Spayt
Looking to make walking a little more comfortable? Here are some podiatrist-recommended selections, as previously reported by staff Shopping writer Griffin Wynne.
A pair of arch support orthotic inserts (20% off)
Michael J. Trepal, professor of surgical sciences at the New York College of Podiatric Medicine, previously spoke to HuffPost about the best products for dealing with plantar fasciitis and said that arch support inserts might be worth trying to make walking more comfortable.
These highly-rated insoles use a high arch and deep heel cup to offer support and maintain correct foot positioning so that the heel is better protected from impact. The inserts are available in both men's and women's sizing.
A pair of "Glide Step" sneakers
These lace-up shoe by Skechers were previously recommended to HuffPost by New York City-based podiatrist Dr. Gary Evans, who claimed the pair was one of the best walking shoe options for older adults. They have a breathable mesh outer construction, a removable arch fit insole and even a podiatrist-designed shape to give wearers a comfortable fit, even when wearing the shoes all day. The Skechers Glide-Step feature helps to give you a natural momentum as you take each step. It comes in multiple colors and in sizes for both men and women.
Seamless wool, nylon or polyester socks
When it comes to foot care, you want to think about socks almost as much as you think about shoes. "Socks are very important as well," said New York City-based podiatrist Dr. Gary Evans. "Can your foot benefit from a thicker, more cushioned sock? A thinner sock for better shoe fit?"
If you're overwhelmed with sock options (believe me, there are many), Evans suggests trying a moisture-wicking sock, which can help prevent blisters, and "socks that are seamless, which means less pressure into and around the toes," he said.
Dr. Michelle Castiello, a podiatrist at Scarsdale Medical Group, an affiliate of White Plains Hospital, said that for walking or exercising, you want to stay away from cotton. "Choose moisture-wicking socks made from fabrics like merino wool, nylon and polyester," she said via email. "Cotton socks can trap moisture against your skin."
These unisex seamless polyester blend athletic socks have a 4.4 rating on Amazon from 3,379 reviews. They come in 12 colors in packs of three, and have a pull-on tab for accessibility as well as a padded instep and cushion in the heel. They're lightweight and moisture-wicking and run from S-XL. Consult the size chart to ensure the best fit.
A four-pack of seamless arch-support socks
Another seam-free sock option we found based off of Castiello's guidance are these from the popular sock and undergarment brand, Bombas, Lightweight and perfect for everyday wear, these ultra-breathable socks have a seam-free toe that won't irritate or rub awkwardly while you walk. There's also a micro-band around the arch of the foot for a light compressive support and they are available in three sizes and a number of different colors.
A heavy-duty emollient
You may be used to putting lotion on your feet after a shower or before bed, but Castiello recommends giving your piggies a little product before hitting the streets.
"Moisturize your feet before a long walk," she said. "Apply creams or ointments to areas that are at risk for blisters, such as bunions and hammertoes."
Per Castiello, having moisturized feet can help prevent blisters, cracking, corns and calluses while you work out.
One possible option is O'Keeffe's Healthy Feet foot cream, an unscented and non-greasy lotion intended to keep your feet from cracking or drying out.
Castiello recommends putting a thin layer of Vaseline on the back of your heels to prevent blisters or discomfort.
A toenail clipper
Before you go on a long walk, Castiello recommends giving your nails a little clip. "Trim your toenails straight across the top of the nail, following the natural curve of your tie," she said. "Toenails that are too long can rub against the front of your sneaker, causing pain, bleeding under the nail and even permanent damage to the toenail."
This Wanmat nail clipper uses leverage handles to make trimming your toenails a little bit easier. It has a 4.5 Amazon rating from 14,275 5-star reviews.
A soap or foot wash to ward off fungus
When you come in from a walk, you may automatically head to the shower to get the sweat off. But even if you don't fully bathe, Castiello recommends giving your feet a foot scrub after every walk.
"After exercise, take off your socks and shoes as soon as possible, [and] wash and dry your feet well, especially between the toes, to avoid fungus," she said.
This Daily Defense foot wash contains tea tree oil and Epsom salts to help clean and deodorize your feet.
Something to stretch on
Though you may do some stretching before you go for a walk, Castiello suggests doing it after as well. "After walking, stretch your feet to improve flexibility, circulation, and prevent/relieve pain," she said.
One thing that might make this easier is a yoga mat. This option measures 74 inches by 24 inches and is half an inch thick. It comes in six colors with a carrying strap.
Pure Epsom salts
If you're dealing with foot pain, McEneaney recommends doing regular foot soaks. "I like Epson salts, so when people have muscle joint aches, some warm and salt soaks can be soothing and can help them feel better," he said. "[You want to] avoid products with any perfumes or dyes."
McEneaney pointed out that some foot pain may be caused by overuse. If you're just starting to go on walks or are trying to go on longer walks, resting and soaking your feet is an important part of getting (and staying) in shape.
"People’s feet are used to taking a certain amount of pressure over time, and that's something that can build up over time," he said. "But if you start walking more than usual or you are doing different types of activities — [such as] walking more inclines — [that] can lead to overuse-type injuries."
This five-pound bag of pure Epsom salt is made in the USA. It has a 4.8-star Amazon rating from 7,158 5-star reviews.
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