Plantar fasciitis is no joke.
The irritation, stiffness, and inflammation of the fascia ligaments on the underside of your foot can cause a great deal of pain, to the point where even just going to the bathroom or walking from the couch to the living room can be utter misery.
That’s why so much emphasis is placed on finding the “right” pair of boots or shoes for whatever activity you’re doing. Because if the shoes aren’t right for the job—they lack support, the arches are too low or high, there’s insufficient heel cushioning, etc.—your feet are at risk of strain and damage.
Thankfully, for a hard day’s work, there are a number of cowboy boot brands that will serve you better than others. They’re not just built for durability or style, but also to prevent foot injuries like plantar fasciitis.
After testing every pair I could, I’ve cobbled together a list of the best cowboy boots for plantar fasciitis to offer you the support and cushioning for a long day spent on your feet or in the saddle.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis and How a Good Pair of Cowboy Boots Can Help
On the bottom of your feet, there are fascia ligaments that A) provide support for your arches, and B) absorbs shock when you walk, run, and jump.
Repetitive stress, overloading, and excessive tension on the fascia may cause the ligament to tear. Over time, even minor tears can grow worse if the ligament isn’t given time to heal.
As with any injury, your body responds by triggering an inflammatory response (meant to stabilize the damaged tissue and give it time to heal) as well as pain (to alert you to damage that needs time to recover).
Certain people are at greater risk of plantar fasciitis:
- Those over the age of 40 (and up to 60), because they are as active as younger athletes but their bodies are slower to repair the damaged ligaments.
- Those who engage in high-intensity and high-impact exercise, such as long-distance runners and ballet dancers.
- Those with flat feet, high arches, or atypical walking patterns, as the incorrect weight distribution can add extra stress to the plantar fascia.
- Those who spend a lot of time on their feet, including teachers, factory workers, ranchers, herders, farmers, military personnel, and security guards.
- Those who are carrying a bit of extra weight, as that extra weight increases the strain on the ligaments.
According to the American Association of Orthopedic Surgeons, the right pair of boots can make a world of difference.
Any shoe that provides shock absorption (to reduce impact on your heels), reduces pressure on sensitive areas (like your heel), and supports your foot while encouraging natural (to your specific skeletal structure) movement will do wonders to manage, treat, and prevent plantar fasciitis.
How Did I Come Up With My List?
I’ve been struggling with weight loss my whole life. My 6’6” frame is what you might call “on the thicker side”.
In order to try and get in shape, I’ve spent a lot of time running to lose weight. Unfortunately, I’ve done most of my running on concrete—which, it turns out, is a very hard surface that increases the risk of foot injuries.
Put together with my extra weight, the fact I spend so much time on my feet, and the high-impact nature of running, and it all but guaranteed I was going to develop plantar fasciitis at some point.
And let me tell you, it was no fun! Pain in my heels every time I stood up and walked a few steps made for some pretty miserable workouts and work days. I had to give up running for nearly a year to give my feet time to heal.
That was when I knew I’d never want that pain again. I spent countless hours researching the best shoe and boot designs for plantar fasciitis, looking for the features that would make the biggest difference for when I got back on my feet.
I’ve spent years testing out every pair of cowboy boots I could, talking to fellow sufferers, and reading online reviews.
My research has led me to a list of the five boots below that I believe best-suited to combatting plantar fasciitis. I organized the list by the one that I found “best” overall, then included other pairs to suit a specific need.
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5 Best Cowboy Boots If You Suffer From Plantar Fasciitis
My Top Pick: Tecovas Knox
The moment I saw these boots, I knew they’d be just what I needed for one simple reason: the wedge sole.
Unlike so many other cowboy boots that feature a heel, the Tecovas Knox features a thick (1”) Vibram rubber wedge outsole that provides equal support across the entire foot. Added to that, they’ve also got a dual footbed that includes both a leather lining and removable shock-absorbing polyurethane insole. Put together, these two features provide the best support and cushioning for plantar fasciitis of any of the boots I tested or researched.
Of course, there’s more to love about these cowboy boots: Goodyear welt construction, reinforced pull tabs to make them easy to slide on and off, stain- and water-resistant full-grain bovine leather 10-inch shaft, and a low-profile outsole that won’t collect mud or dust.
What I Like
The wedge soles are incredibly comfortable to wear all day long and provide excellent arch and heel support.
There is no additional pressure placed on your heels (a common problem with higher-heeled cowboy boots) so less risk of plantar fasciitis.
Sturdy construction and water- and stain-resistant finish.
Roper style makes them great work boots, but they look good enough for casual use, too.
What I Don’t Like
The first pair I bought was a bit too tight-fitting. I had to exchange it for a wider fit to reduce pressure on my feet.
The low-profile outsole is better-suited to indoor and urban conditions, less so for muddy farms or fields.
What Other Reviewers Say
Reviewers sing these boots’ praises, complimenting the quality of their construction, their versatility, the short break-in period, work-friendly construction, and, of course the amazing support and cushioning in the heel. Also highly regarded is the very affordable price tag—it’s one of the best-priced on our list.
On the negative side, a few users found the outsole to be insufficiently “aggressive” for muddy, wet, and slippery terrains. One reviewer also noted the wedge sole began to wear out far more quickly than other Vibram rubber soles.
The Verdict
If you want maximum support for your heels and enough cushioning to reduce pressure even over a long day of work, I strongly recommend the Tecovas Knox. They’re the most comfortable pair of cowboy boots I’ve worn to date and have done wonders to keep plantar fasciitis at bay.
This wedge sole roper offers more arch support and more comfort if you work long days standing on concrete. A lot of guys who struggle with knee or back pain find that the wedge sole is game-changing and allows you to go through a 12 hour shift without getting tired.
Best for Work: Ariat WorkHog
You just can’t beat the Ariat WorkHog boots for durability and versatility on the job. Their DRYShield waterproof construction means they won’t be damaged by rain or mud, and the aggressive oil-resistant Duratread outsole is amazing for slogging across slippery terrain.
But the reason I’m including them on this list is because of their shock-absorbing EVA midsole and ATS Max Technology. The former reduces the impact on your midfoot and heel, while the latter disperses pressure across your foot to keep your ligaments, muscles, and tendons from being overworked or strained to the point of tearing.
Whether you’re riding herd, driving in fence posts, or baling hay, these boots will provide the cushioning and support you need.
What I Like
The square toe is roomy enough to keep my feet comfortable and doesn’t squeeze my toes (which can increase foot fatigue).
The EVA midsole and ATS Max Technology offer excellent support and cushioning to combat plantar fasciitis.
The boots look good but also wear hard and will stand up to rain, mud, and snow.
Aggressive outsole doesn’t just give you good stability on slippery or muddy ground, but also has a self-cleaning design so you don’t track mud indoors.
What I Don’t Like
I found the break-in period on these boots was a bit longer than “average”.
The midfoot fit felt a bit tight until they were properly broken in.
What Other Reviewers Say
Reviews who’ve tested this boot have nothing but good things to say about its construction, waterproofing, durability, stylish looks, and their comfort once broken in. Many rave about it for long days on their feet in retail, and one even claimed he uses it as his hunting boot of choice because it offers such great support for long-distance hikes.
However, more than a few people found the same problem I did, that the break-in period was a bit longer than expected. A few also claimed the boots they bought weren’t waterproofed properly, which could speak to a quality control issue in the manufacturing process.
The Verdict
If you regularly put in a hard day’s work on your feet and you suffer from plantar fasciitis, I recommend the Ariat WorkHog as the boots of choice. Their aggressive outsole, supportive insole and midsole, and waterproof design makes them an all-around great pair of daily beaters to use for just about anything and everything.
Ariat gave these an apt name. These waterproof work boots are tough. Combine that with Ariat's ATS comfort system, and suddenly working on your feet for 10-12 hours straight is much easier.
Best for High Arches: Chisos No. 2
According to the experts, people with high arches should choose boots with plenty of arch support (particularly in the midsole), ample ankle support, ample room for your toes, and space inside the boot to add custom orthotics (should they prove necessary).
I’m glad to say the Chisos No.2 delivers on all of those features.
The combination of the stacked leather heel, leather insole, and comfort insole all work to support your arches. The snug-fitting shaft does a great job of supporting your ankle. The square toe is roomy enough for even guys with wide feet. And, once broken in, the boot is roomy enough to fit in orthotics.
To make it even better, the 18-gauge steel shank improves stability when you’re walking and prevents direct pressure from your stirrups when riding. Add to that all the features that make these a great-looking pair of boots—heritage cowhide leather, Goodyear welt construction, and a dressy style—and you can understand why I included them on this list.
What I Like
Excellent cushioning and support from comfort + leather insole + stacked heel.
Boot shaft fits snugly to your feet for better ankle support.
Great stability provided by the steel shank.
Roomy square toe gives your forefeet space and reduces pressure.
What I Don’t Like
The price tag on these bad boys is noticeably higher than the other boots on our list, but it’s very much a “you get what you pay for” situation.
What Other Reviewers Say
Users who’ve tested the Chisos No.2 tend to agree that they’re some of the most comfortable and supportive cowboy boots around. One reviewer raved, “my back pain is gone, my knee pain is gone”, while another said, “I would recommend these boots to anyone who needs to use an orthotic.”
On the downside, there were mentions of quality control issues (the boots arriving scuffed, dinged, and scratched). Some also found the break-in time was longer than expected, and the sizing wasn’t quite right.
The Verdict
If you’ve got high arches, these may just be the boots for you. They offer the support where you need it (around the ankles and arches), provide ample cushioning for your heels, and are roomy enough to reduce forefoot pressure. Plus, they’re just a great-looking pair you can use as either work or dress boots.
The Chisos No. 2 provides support for flat feet and are comfortable for long, hard work days. The fact that they’re stylish, good-looking, and built to last are all just “gravy”.
Best Square Toe: Capitan Cheyenne
Square toe boots are ideal for people with plantar fasciitis because it reduces pressure on the forefoot, which in turn translates to less pressure on the rest of the foot. Combined with enough arch/heel support, a good pair of square toe boots can prevent and manage foot pain very effectively.
Which is what makes the Capitan Cheyenne one of my top picks for plantar fasciitis and foot pain sufferers. The very roomy forefoot and midfoot reduces the pressure on your feet, keeping them comfortable in the boot while also offering space to include an orthotic for extra arch support.
The boots could use a bit more cushioning, true, but the stacked leather heel will conform nicely to your foot and grow more comfortable and supportive over time. And you have to agree with me that the distressed, vintage finish is very eye-catching and stylish.
Add to that the colorful stitching on the shaft and upper, and you’ve got the makings of a bold fashion choice.
What I Like
Roomy toe box does wonders to reduce pressure on your forefoot.
Plenty of space to insert an orthotic.
Handcrafted quality and distressed, vintage look.
Every pair is totally unique, and the leather will develop an even more unique patina over time.
What I Don’t Like
There’s not quite enough arch support or cushioning for my liking, meaning you’ll have to use orthotics to combat plantar fasciitis.
The stitching details are a bit too colorful for my tastes.
What Other Reviewers Say
Reviewers who rave about these boots speak very highly of their price tag (one of the most affordable on our list), but insist the quality is up to par with more expensive boots. The one-of-a-kind look and vintage style were also big selling points.
A few foot pain sufferers did find the boots were comfortable but lacking in support and cushioning, even when broken in. And some guys with extra-thick calves had a hard time with the boots’ very tight ankle and lower leg fit.
The Verdict
Enjoy a roomier fit and less foot pressure in boots that are built to be as comfortable as possible. Plus, you can spice up your daily work outfit and add a dash of color that makes you stand out from the crowd.
Cheyenne features a distressed cowhide leather upper, and while I'm not crazy about the look, some people absolutely love it, and I don't hold it against them.
Best for High Instep: Thursday Maverick
The Thursday Maverick is a boot built for comfort as well as style.
On the comfort front, you get shock-absorbing insoles, a cork-bed midsole that adapts to the shape and structure of your foot, and a 1½” inch stacked leather heel that will provide extra cushioning as the boots break in. Plus, there’s enough room in the boot to accommodate the added height of a high instep.
On the style side, you get a buttery-smooth full grain leather that exudes elegance from shaft to toe. They may not be suitable for a hard day’s work, but they’re the ideal choice for taking your partner out on the town or turning a quick spin on the dance floor. My research has yet to lead me to a better pair of dress cowboy boots to combat foot pain and plantar fasciitis than these bad boys.
What I Like
Glossy leather and classic cowboy style combine to make for truly fashionable Western footwear.
Shock-absorbing insoles, cork-bed midsoles, and stacked leather heel all offer excellent comfort.
Snug fit in the ankles but roomy enough for feet with high arches/high instep.
Good quality at a great price.
What I Don’t Like
I can’t take these boots out in the rain, snow, or mud, because the leather isn’t durable enough to withstand harsh conditions.
What Other Reviewers Say
With a 4.9 out of 5 star rating, it’s clear that the Thursday Maverick is a much-loved boot. Users praise its style, very short break-in period (just a day or two), all-day comfort, quality of the build, and the glove-like fit.
The only downside users mentioned was the tight fit, which can feel a bit too snug even when broken in. Many just recommend going up a half-size (or full size) if they’re too tight.
The Verdict
These boots are made for strutting, and boy do they look good. I’m a big fan of the Thursday Maverick’s glossy, smooth leather, subtle stitching details, sturdy construction, and the excellent support and cushioning they provide—they’re particularly comfortable if you have a high instep. I’ve had these as my date night/going-out boots for years and can’t imagine wearing any others.
For a boot that’s both ultra-dressy and ultra-comfy, I recommend the Thursday Maverick. It combines the glossy, sleek leather exterior with a soft interior, excellent cushioning and support, and long-lasting durability. The antimicrobial lining is also game-changing for guys who tend to sweat a lot (like me). Stinky feet be gone.
Don’t Suffer Needlessly
There’s no need to accept foot pain as a “given” just because you spend long hours walking or riding. All you’ve got to do is find the right pair of boots and you can nip that plantar fasciitis in the bud before it causes you discomfort.
I can’t recommend the Tecovas Knox highly enough for anyone who wants full-foot support and extra cushioning. They’re built to keep you comfortable even after a long day of walking or standing, and they’ll look good doing it.
This wedge sole roper offers more arch support and more comfort if you work long days standing on concrete. A lot of guys who struggle with knee or back pain find that the wedge sole is game-changing and allows you to go through a 12 hour shift without getting tired.
For a hard day’s work, the durability, water-resistance, and cushioning of the Ariat WorkHog can be truly game-changing. Anyone with high arches will find the Chisos No.2 meets all their needs to provide ankle stability, arch support, and a design that combats forefoot pressure.
The Chisos No. 2 provides support for flat feet and are comfortable for long, hard work days. The fact that they’re stylish, good-looking, and built to last are all just “gravy”.
The Capitan Cheyenne’s roomy fit makes it a great choice for preventing plantar fasciitis, especially if you add in custom orthotics. And if you’re planning on strutting your stuff in your Sunday best, I think it’s tough to find a better blend of style and comfort than the Thursday Maverick.
FAQs
Are cowboy boots good for planters fasciitis?
The “right” pair of cowboy boots will give your forefoot plenty of room to move (reducing pressure), offer arch support, and incorporate enough cushioning in the heels to reduce impact on hard surfaces.
Any cowboy boot that doesn’t meet these criteria, though, are more likely to exacerbate existing foot pain and increase your chances of developing plantar fasciitis.
Why does my heel hurt in cowboy boots?
The majority of cowboy boots have A) a high heel (1 to 2 inches) and B) limited support and shock absorption. Put together, these two features mean your heels aren’t getting enough support and cushioning, which means your plantar fascia are at greater risk of strain or tearing.
However, as you saw from our list above, cowboy boots with a design that includes the necessary features (chief among them, good arch support and heel cushioning) will keep your heels pain-free and prevent plantar fasciitis.
Do Tecovas boots have good arch support?
Some Tecovas boots (like the Knox) feature built-in cushioning and arch support incorporated specifically for foot pain sufferers. However, the shank integrated into all of the boots will help to offer better stability and at least some arch support even if the shoes have limited cushioning.
