The Best Shoes for Pain Relief

When foot or back pain strikes, every step can feel like a challenge. And if you’re living with scoliosis, flat feet, or plantar fasciitis, you know that comfort and support aren’t optional—they’re essential. Whether you’re on your feet all day or just want to get through a walk without flaring up your back or arches, the right shoes can make a world of difference. 

At Hansen’s, we’ve curated a collection of brands known for their exceptional comfort, support, and pain-relief technology. Here’s our guide to the best shoes for pain relief—featuring HOKA, Dansko, OOFOS, On, SAS, and Birkenstock—and how each can help you walk easier.

For All-Day Comfort with Maximum Cushion: HOKA

If you have scoliosis or plantar fasciitis, HOKA is a game-changer. The brand’s signature thick midsole provides shock absorption and arch support without feeling heavy. Designed for alignment and joint protection, HOKAs take pressure off your heels and lower back.

Top Picks:

• HOKA Bondi 9 – One of the most cushioned road shoes available, it’s ideal for sensitive backs and heel pain.
  

• HOKA Arahi 8 – Offers stability support without feeling rigid—perfect for flat feet that need gentle correction.

• HOKA Clifton 10 – Lightweight and plush, this one’s great if you need support but still want a versatile, everyday sneaker.

For Firm, Adaptive Support: Birkenstock

Birkenstock’s cork-latex footbed is legendary for a reason—it molds to your foot’s shape over time, offering firm yet adaptive arch support. This combination helps alleviate plantar fasciitis pain and supports healthy alignment, making it ideal for both daily wear and recovery.

Top Picks:

• Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed – Adjustable straps with cushioned cork support.
  
  
• Birkenstock Boston Clog – Closed-toe comfort with arch stability.
• Birkenstock Zermatt Slipper – Cozy home option with the same supportive footbed.

For Arch Support + Slip-On Simplicity: OOFOS

Recovery starts with rest—and OOFOS is designed to help your feet actually recover. Their proprietary OOfoam absorbs 37% more impact than traditional footwear. This helps reduce stress on the feet, knees, and back—perfect for plantar fasciitis recovery or general foot fatigue.

Top Picks:

• OOFOS OOriginal Sport Flex Sandal – Great for post-workout, errands, or around the house.
  

• OOFOS OOahh Slide – Ridiculously comfortable and a favorite among nurses, teachers, and anyone who stands for hours.
  
  

For Supportive Workwear: Dansko

If you’re managing scoliosis or flat feet and need professional, supportive footwear—look no further than Dansko. Known for its rocker-bottom soles and ergonomic footbeds, Dansko shoes help improve posture and reduce strain on the spine.

Top Picks:

• Dansko XP 2.0 Clog – Similar to the Professional but with lighter construction and slip-resistant outsoles.

• Dansko Paisley Sneaker – Waterproof walking/work shoe with slip resistance and arch support.
  

For Lightweight Stability: On Running

On combines Swiss-engineered performance with a clean, minimalist look. Their CloudTec® cushioning and speedboard design help reduce pressure on joints while promoting a natural gait—ideal for those with scoliosis or foot pain who still want to stay active.

Top Picks:

• On Cloudswift 4– Designed for urban movement with enough cushioning for walking and light workouts.
  

• On Cloud  X4 – Versatile and responsive for gym days, walks, or casual wear.
  
  

• On Cloudrunner 2 – Known for its soft landings and smooth roll-through, this is a great pick for flat feet needing structure.

For Customizable Comfort: SAS

SAS (San Antonio Shoemakers) is all about handcrafted comfort with medical-grade support. Designed with extra-depth construction, contoured footbeds, and shock-absorbing soles, SAS shoes are a go-to for people managing chronic foot conditions. Their range includes casual sneakers, sandals, and dress shoes—all made with orthopedic-level detail.

Top Picks:

• SAS Free Time – A best-selling walking shoe with maximum cushioning and adjustable laces for a perfect fit.
  

• SAS Roamer – Soft leather and a padded interior make this ideal for sensitive feet.
  

• SAS Duo – A supportive sandal with adjustable straps, perfect for warm-weather comfort.

Final Thoughts

Foot pain and postural imbalances don’t have to keep you sidelined. Whether you’re dealing with scoliosis, flat feet, or plantar fasciitis, the right shoes can change how you move through your day—literally. At Hansen’s, we carry all of the above brands and styles to help you feel better from the ground up.

Still not sure what’s right for you? Come try them on in-store or message us for personalized recommendations. We’re here to help you find your perfect fit.