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.”
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!”
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.
“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
The Real Deal: We use deal trackers and commerce experience to sift through “fake” hike-and-drop deals and other deceptive sales tactics. Products will usually be rated at least 4 stars with a minimum 15% discount. (And when there’s an exception, we’ll tell you why.)
