I’m sure you’ve already head about carpal tunnel syndrome which is a very common condition that affects your hands and wrists, but have you ever heard about tarsal tunnel syndrome?
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Well, this condition is a bit different, though they are much likely the same. Tarsal tunnel syndrome will affect your feet and ankles and can cause significant pain, numbness, and tingling while you’re walking. It happens when a nerve in the tunnel is compressed, causing pain along the nerve that can stretch down into the foot.
Not only that, but it can also cause significant problems when walking and can make your feet and ankles quickly feel fatigued. If you’re suffering from this condition, one way to alleviate the symptoms is by wearing a well-fitting, supportive pair of shoes.
So for today’s article, allow me to introduce you to the best shoes for tarsal tunnel that will not only provide comfort to your precious feet but can also keep the pain at bay. Please keep on reading below.
Best Shoes for Tarsal Tunnel: Top Sellers in the Market
ASICS Men’s GEL Venture 5 Running Shoe

Product Link: https://www.amazon.com/ASICS-Mens-Venture-Running-Shoe/dp/B00Q2JC290
On top of our list comes from the Venture Series of Asics. It boasts rubber soles and has been designed to give your heels gel cushioning. It also built using synthetic material and this includes a removable sock liner that allows you to use this pair with foot orthotics.
I like that the synthetic material Asics used here is durable enough to endure athletic wear and tear, what’s even great is that it can keep your feet cool during use. It also used porous mesh so your feet will feel comfortable at all times.
Not only that, but this pair also has exceptional outsoles that allow you to walk on multiple various surfaces, thanks to its traction as well as its stability. It also features raised helps that can help you maintain the right posture.
If you’re an athlete who is suffering from tarsal tunnel, I must say this is your best bet. And the best of all, it comes at a reasonable price.
Pros:
- It comes at a reasonable price
- It heels are raised which gives stability and help you keep correct posture
- It has a rugged outsole that works best with different types of terrains
- It comes with gel support which provides cushion to your foot
- It is made of synthetic material and porous mesh that keeps your feet cool
Cons:
- Few customers complained that it soles padding tend to wear out quickly
Propet Women’s Travelactiv Mary Jane Fashion Sneaker

Product Link: https://www.amazon.com/Propet-Womens-Travelactiv-Fashion-Sneaker/dp/B013KUF53I
This is a lightweight sneaker that comes in a cool and casual style but what makes it stand out is its ability to provide support and accommodation for Orthotic devices. You can remove its footbed so you can place your own orthotic devices.
Another thing I like about this pair is that it has fabric uppers that are breathable and lightweight yet durable and thick. Thanks to its perforated uppers, the shoes boast better ventilation. In addition to that, it has a lightweight and flexible outsole made of high abrasion rubber; plus, it absorbs shock quite effectively.
I’m sure you will enjoy this pair especially that it comes in several colors you can choose from. It also has strap hook and loop closure you can easily adjust it to fit you.
Pros:
- It has a lightweight and flexible outsole
- It has removable footbed to accommodate your own orthotic device
- It’s a perforated fabric shoe making it breathable
Cons:
- There are few complaints from customers saying it soles wear down easily
Orthofeet Men’s Boat Shoes Baton Rouge

Product Link: https://www.amazon.com/Orthofeet-Adjustable-Support-Orthopedic-Diabetic/dp/B07BZST4R9
A great pair of shoes to alleviate the symptoms of tarsal tunnel symptoms should make gait support its priority to minimize the pain caused by the said condition. And this is where these shoes from Orthofeet stand out.
This pair of boat shoes have been designed with an Ortho-Cushion system which provides you with a soft and safe landing every time you take a step. It also has a built-in premium orthotic insole which provides support to your anatomical arches; in this way, discover due to over long periods of standing and walking can be prevented.
But that’s not all, the design of these shoes also boasts unique-ultra deep interior which perfectly cups the heels as well as provides enough space around your ankles and toe box at the same time keeping the support you need. This serves as a cradle that gently cups against the curves and the grooves of your feet; as a result, the pressure on the most vulnerable areas will be significantly reduced and also prevent further hindrance of any structures.
Pros:
- It comes with a premium orthotic insole
- It features Ortho-Cushion system that is soft and rubbery, making it possible to make a springy and light step
- It has been designed to reduce on vulnerable areas of your feet
- It has a breathable interior that prevents excessive production of sweat
- It comes in a casual look perfect for everyday use and various occasions
Cons:
- It’s a bit more expensive
Propet Men’s Sawyer Boating Shoe

Product Link: https://www.amazon.com/Propet-Mens-Sawyer-Boating-Shoe/dp/B01LAM8J6I
If you’re looking for a premium shoe but your budget won’t allow you, then look no further, this another pair from Propet might be the right one for you. It comes in a pretty impressive design at a budget-friendly price.
It comes in a casual, laid-back design that is easy to wear as it eliminates the process of working on laces which can be time-consuming. In addition to that, it also has an impressive sole that will bend and flex according to your gait, giving you enough comfort and freedom to move.
It also used comfortable materials that are not only breathable but is also soft to the skin. Plus, it has a wide toe box that allows you to spread your feet without limitation, minimizing pressure spots as well as prevent friction.
Pros:
- It comes in a simple design and is comfortable to wear, making it perfect for quick trips and errands
- It boasts comfortable materials
- It has flexible soles that allow you to walk with minimum restriction
- It has a wide toe box that prevents friction and reduces pressure spots
Cons:
- It does not have enough reinforcement for your heel backs
Dr. Comfort Wing Men’s Therapeutic Diabetic Extra Depth Dress Shoe Leather Lace

Product Link: https://www.amazon.com/Dr-Comfort-Therapeutic-Diabetic-Leather/dp/B07CKMH6ND
Next on our list is a gorgeous leather shoe by Dr. Comfort. It is made from a high-grade leather with the finest quality and features incredibly smooth interior insoles as well as lightweight outsoles. Though they are initially intended for people with diabetes, they are also perfect for those who suffer from tarsal tunnel syndrome.
What I like about this pair is that it comes in elegant designs; just because you’re suffering from tarsal tunnel syndrome doesn’t mean you’ll have to wear boring shoes at all times. But what’s even great is that they do not only look gorgeous but they are very comfortable to the feet too. It has a seamless lining and has been padded to make sure it efficiently provides the therapeutic function you need.
It has lace closures too, so wearing them can be very easy and quick.
Pros:
- It comes in a classic design that is suitable for various occasions.
- It has an extra depth that allows your toes and feet for some flexible movement
- Wearing it can be therapeutic
- It a lightweight pair of shoes
- It has a comfortable and soft padded interior
Cons:
- Its sizes are not that accurate, so be careful when choosing one
Best Shoes for Tarsal Tunnel: Buyer’s Guide
You have to remember that not all shoes were made to be the same and to meet the demands of those who are suffering from tarsal tunnel. So here are some factors you need to consider before buying a pair.
- The shape of your Feet
The feet come in various shapes and sizes and this is something you need to consider first. Make sure you’re buying a pair of shoes that will perfectly fit your feet’s shape, shoes with too much or less space will only lead to blisters, calluses, and compression which can worsen tarsal tunnel syndrome.
Another thing you need to make sure is the shoes’ toe box segment, make sure that it is wide enough to accommodate your toes or else you might suffer from other disorders such as bunions and hammertoes. Always remember that a shoe should be able to conform to your feet’s shape, not the other way around.
- Durability
Of course, we want something that is durable and can last for the years to come. So make sure you’re buying a pair that is made of high-quality material and is capable to withstand the daily wear and tear, not just something that will break down after a few months of using.
Moreover, if you’re suffering from a tarsal tunnel syndrome, make sure the shoes also come with durable support and padding that won’t easily wear out; there are plenty of soles in the market that become worn down through time and lose its ability to support the lower half of your body like it once did the first time you bought it.
- Support
The best shoes for tarsal tunnel should allow you to insert medical orthotics to help you ease your condition. Your orthopedist might give you unique orthotic inserts you will have to use your shoes to help you with your symptoms.
A lot of shoes offer extra support in addition to this. Some pairs come with gel cushioning in the heel, which will conform to your feet’s movement. Other pairs come with varying layers of padding all over the shoe.
- Weight
Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be worsened if you will be wearing heavy pairs of shoes. So make sure you are picking lightweight shoes that will make walking easy. If possible, compare how each pair weights. You can also double check user reviews so you will be well-informed whether anyone had issues with the shoes’ weight.
- Insoles
The shoes’ insoles should be able to provide support as well as cushioning to the footbed. This feature can help fasten your healing process from tarsal tunnel syndrome. They should be able to soothe the injured tendon tissues as well as your footbed.
But take note that these insoles should be removable so you can still add your own customized insole for better performance.
- Outsole
Not only that, the shoes’ outsole should also be supportive enough. Don’t buy shoes that have thin outsoles as they tend to have less ability for shock absorption. Your shoe outsole should be made of robust material yet moderately flexible. They should be able to bend over the ball of the foot.
In addition to that, it should also be resilient enough to provide rigid support as well as maintain smooth traction so the impact on the foot due to friction can be avoided.
Conclusion
When you need to be on your feet while suffering from Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome, the result can be painful. There is no better treatment to decrease the inflammation than rest and some ice packs along with mild pain killers.
So to make sure you won’t have to go through this pain again, it’s highly recommended to invest with the best shoes for tarsal tunnel syndrome. The pairs I’ve mentioned above are of excellent quality and came from great brands, they can absolutely help bring relief to your condition.
Anyway, if you still have any more question, feel free to leave them at the comment section below.