Are Chacos Good For Plantar Fasciitis?- [Explained]

When summer is here, you see sandals or flip flops everywhere you look. But they’re not the best solution for your feet. Despite their adorbs look, they come with a set of hidden problems.

The good news is there are a number of other options you could try when you want to wear sandals. One excellent example would be Chacos. But then again, it all boils down to one question.

Are Chacos good for plantar fasciitis?

Chacos weren’t designed to help with plantar fasciitis. But if you choose the right model, it might be good for it. Generally, they come with proper arch support and high heel cups to keep your feet free from pain.

However, this is only the tip of the iceberg. If you want to get more into the details, there are a number of topics I’ve discussed.

Let’s start, shall we?

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis (PLAN-tur fas-e-I-tis) will cause you pain in the bottom of your heel. The plantar fascia is a thick ligament that acts as a joint for your heel and the front of the foot. You could call it a shock absorber for your feet that helps you to walk.

The sad part is many people suffer from plantar fasciitis making it one of the most common complaints. If you put too much stress on your feet, it’ll damage your ligaments at one point.

When the ligaments get damaged, the plantar fascia shows inflammation, resulting in pain and discomfort.

However, it’s still quite unknown what exactly causes this problem. Even though fasciitis means inflammation, it’s more like degeneration of the ligament.

Are Sandals Bad For Plantar Fasciitis?

Summer sandals might look cute out of the box but they’re one of the primary reasons behind foot pain. Flip-flops, sandals, mules are fashionable footwear but they’re not good for your feet.

Sandals, flip-flops, or anything like that won’t provide a balanced weight distribution. They offer little to no support for your arches, making them painful to wear after a while. As they’re flat, they can make your plantar fascia flattened which will worsen plantar fasciitis.

When you’re putting on flat shoes, you’re putting most of the pressure on your heel. This isn’t ideal for your feet at all. Because without proper support and shock absorption, your heel is going to suffer.

Let me paint you a picture-

Suppose you’re walking in your sandals. Now, when you put each step, most of the pressure is going to fall on your heel. When you want to take the next step, you’re again putting stress on your heel for springing back.

Are Chacos Sandals Good For Plantar Fasciitis?

Chacos sandals weren’t really designed with plantar fasciitis in mind. These are great pairs of sandals that somehow became popular for such cases. I mean the sandals themselves are quite comfortable when you think about it.

Chacos sandals come with the right kind of arch support, which will result in a comfortable experience. Depending on feet size and the softness of the sandals, choosing the right Chacos model can be quite good for plantar fasciitis.

The right kind of Chacos sandals can give you the correct arch support and it’ll make your pronation flawless. On top of that, a lot of Chacos models offer perfect cushioning for your feet that help you to bring down the impact when you’re walking.

Even though it might seem insignificant, that small support is all your feet are asking for. If you stop wearing flats, you’ll be doing a favor to your feet.

Are They Specifically Designed For Comfort?

Chacos are more comfortable than you’d think. These well-made sandals let your feet breathe thanks to their open design. Even if you’re walking around in warm weather, your feet won’t complain. Not to mention that Chacos sandals come with the proper cushioning that won’t put too much pressure on your feet.

If you’re living in the states, you might not have to deal with humid weather. But a lot of travelers always keep a pair of Chacos when they’re traveling. Regardless of the weather condition, they’ll keep your feet comfortable.

The straps are made out of durable fabric that goes through the sole. The bottom line is you can adjust the straps any way you want. You get a perfect fit, which keeps your feet away from injuries.

But most importantly, they have the right kind of sole and cushioning. This is what’s crucial when you’re thinking of a shoe for plantar fasciitis. While they’ll cost you a little extra money, the comfort and durability they offer make them worth it. 

Do They Have Any Certifications Or Recommendations?

It might come as a surprise to you but Chacos is one of the few brands that have the approval of the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). To put a cherry on top, they also come with their own Ergonomic BioCentric® footbed. 

Chacos were designed for the adventurous people in mind. It has all the right cushioning and sole. But turns out it’s not only good for the outdoor adventurer. 

People who go through plantar fasciitis benefit from wearing Chacos(I’ll be getting to that in a jiff). Apart from the heel riser, the overall design of these sandals helps you to make your body alignment better.

Even if you don’t have plantar fasciitis, it’ll help you prevent other kinds of heel and ankle pain. The structured heel cup and everything else will make sure you don’t feel that excruciating pain when you wake up every morning. 

Do Chacos Sandals Help Plantar Fasciitis Pain?

Chacos sandals weren’t built to help plantar fasciitis pain. Their primary focus was to design footwear that’ll comfort your feet and keep sore feet away. However, if you can find the right model with the right features, you’ll get Chacos sandals that will indeed help with plantar fasciitis pain.

The brand makes a number of different shoes for many different customer segments in mind. Some people like soft sandals while others go for sandals that give them the right arch support.

Although most Chacos sandals will come with adequate foot cushioning and arch support. Their Ergonomic BioCentric® footbed was introduced to help people relieve their foot pain.

When you’re designing sandals for the outdoor adventurer, you need to make them comfortable. Even though they’re a bit heavier than other shoes and they take extra time to sit in, the support they offer might help you deal with plantar fasciitis pain.

What Sandals Are Best For Plantar Fasciitis?

Choosing sandals for plantar fasciitis might require some extra research but your first priority should be to look for thick and cushioned soles. Adequate arch support is a must. Other than that, a little flexibility in the midsoles should be perfect.

The straps are another important thing to consider. But try to look for sandals that have a higher heel. With a significantly deep and high heel cup, you get to keep your feet in a neutral position. At the end of the day, this will prevent pronation or rolling when you’re walking.

Here are some of the best sandals for plantar fasciitis that will save your feet from that excruciating pain-

• Birkenstock Arizona Oiled Leather Habana Sandals: These sandals from Birkenstock are made out of pure leather and a sturdy synthetic sole. The versatility and comfortability these true-to-size sandals offer make them perfect for anything from walking around or running errands. As it’s it would take some time to break in, but once that’s done, you’re all set. Click here to view these sandal at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).

• Chaco Men’s Z/Cloud 2 Sport Sandal: The Chaco Z/Cloud 2 sport sandals come in 13 different designs. And it’s safe to say that it comes with the well-known Chaco guarantee of craftsmanship and durability. Thanks to the iconic strap and buckle system, you won’t even feel that you’re wearing sandals. Click here to view these sandal at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).

• KEEN Men’s Newport H2 Sandal: When it comes to design aspects, it’s hard to beat the KEEN New H2 sandals with its whopping 32 models. The durable and waterproof sandals offer outstanding fit for feet sizes. Thanks to the high heel cups and ergonomic design, wearing it for an extended amount of time is no issue at all. Click here to view these sandal at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).

• Chaco Men’s Z/Volv 2: The Chaco Z/Volv 2 is a pair of sandals you can depend on. The sturdy construction, outstanding foot support, and great foot traction makes it an excellent choice for people who suffer from foot pain. Even if you don’t, wearing these ergonomic sandals will help you prevent any further complications. Click here to view these sandal at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).

Can I Wear Flip Flops With Plantar Fasciitis?

Flip flops are a big no when it comes to plantar fasciitis. More often than not, they come with thin soles and an unattached heel. Other than offering no arch support, they offer a bit too much motion. All these combined can really put serious stress on your feet.

If your feet already have any biomechanical abnormalities, wearing flip flops make the situation even worse. When you think about it they’re somewhat better than walking barefoot. But there are so many options in the market.

So, it doesn’t really make any sense when you’re putting your feet at harm. In a sane world, no podiatrist will ever advise you to wear flat flip flops. The pressure these put on your heel bone and toes are simply not worth it.

Final Verdict

So, that’s been it. Now if anyone asks you, are Chacos good for plantar fasciitis or not, you’ll know the exact answer to it.

Nonetheless, you still might have some other confusion regarding this. If that’s the case, comment below and I’ll take care of your problem. Take care!

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