Revolutionary Support For Your Feet

Best Hiking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

Salomon X Ultra 4

Experience the next evolution in hiking footwear with the Salomon X Ultra 4 - specifically engineered to provide exceptional support and comfort for hikers suffering from plantar fasciitis. These revolutionary shoes combine cutting-edge technology with ergonomic design to reduce foot pain and enhance stability on all terrains.

$149.95 $179.95 SAVE 17%
  • Advanced SensiFit™ technology cradles your foot for precise support
  • OrthoLite® insoles provide superior cushioning for plantar fasciitis relief
  • Contagrip® MA outsole delivers exceptional grip on mixed terrain
  • Lightweight chassis reduces fatigue during long hikes
  • Breathable mesh upper keeps feet cool and comfortable

The Evolution of Comfort

The Salomon X Ultra 4 represents the culmination of decades of research and innovation in hiking footwear. Born from a passion to create shoes that enable everyone to experience the joy of hiking without limitations, these shoes have been meticulously engineered to address the specific needs of hikers with plantar fasciitis.

The journey began when Salomon's design team partnered with podiatrists and biomechanical engineers to understand the unique challenges faced by hikers with foot conditions. They discovered that traditional hiking boots often lacked the specific support structures needed to alleviate plantar fasciitis pain, forcing many outdoor enthusiasts to limit their adventures or endure discomfort.

This insight led to the development of the X Ultra series, with each iteration refining the balance between support, comfort, and performance. The X Ultra 4 represents the pinnacle of this evolution, incorporating advanced materials and innovative technologies that work in harmony to cradle your feet and reduce strain on the plantar fascia.

Salomon X Ultra 4 in action

Revolutionary Technology

The Salomon X Ultra 4 incorporates cutting-edge features specifically designed to provide relief and support for plantar fasciitis sufferers.

SensiFit™ System

The innovative SensiFit™ system cradles your foot from the midsole to the lacing system, providing a secure, snug fit around the entire foot. This precision fit reduces movement within the shoe, preventing the excessive stretching of the plantar fascia that can cause pain and inflammation.

OrthoLite® Insoles

Premium OrthoLite® insoles deliver superior cushioning and support exactly where you need it most. The anatomically designed footbed distributes pressure evenly across your foot, reducing strain on the plantar fascia and providing exceptional comfort during long hikes.

Advanced Chassis

The lightweight ADV-C chassis positioned between the outsole and midsole stabilizes your foot on challenging terrain. This targeted support minimizes foot fatigue and provides the perfect balance of flexibility and stability, crucial for hikers with plantar fasciitis.

Energy Cell Midsole

The high-performance EVA foam midsole provides exceptional energy return and shock absorption. This technology reduces impact forces that can aggravate plantar fasciitis, allowing you to hike longer with less discomfort.

Contagrip® MA Outsole

The aggressive lug pattern and specialized rubber compound deliver exceptional traction on varied terrain. This reliable grip reduces the need for your foot to work harder on unstable surfaces, minimizing strain on the plantar fascia.

Breathable Construction

The engineered mesh upper provides excellent ventilation while maintaining structural support. This breathable design keeps your feet cool and dry, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis.

What Hikers Are Saying

Don't just take our word for it. Hear from fellow hikers who have experienced the difference Salomon X Ultra 4 shoes make for plantar fasciitis.

"I've been through three pairs of the X Ultra 3 in over 2,000 backpacking miles. I hesitated to try the 4s, but after 120 miles of backpacking, I can confidently say they're a worthwhile update. They feel much lighter on the foot with a meshier upper, bringing them closer to trail runners while maintaining robust support. The stability is even better than the 3s, with the outside upper edge flaring out slightly to prevent ankle rolling. The shoe hugs the cradle below the ankle nicely for added support."

- Experienced Backpacker

"These shoes may be the most comfortable hiking shoes I have ever owned. The fit is perfect. The soles grip amazingly on any surface wet or dry. The lacing system is fantastic, I really don't miss tying my shoes at all. They breathe really well even in hot weather. I honestly have nothing bad to say about these shoes. Well worth the money, especially for someone with plantar fasciitis like me."

- Comfort Seeker

"I did a 30-mile hike through the Mojave desert on rough terrain with lots of volcanic rock and loose mine tailings. I had broken the shoes in for a month prior to the trip. By the end, my feet were only minimally sore in the toe box area despite all the inclines and declines. The traction was excellent on rock scrambles and sliding down slopes of loose gravel. After the trip, I was surprised to see the tread still in great condition."

- Desert Hiker

Customer Photos

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do these shoes help with plantar fasciitis?

The Salomon X Ultra 4 shoes are designed with several features that specifically address plantar fasciitis concerns. The OrthoLite® insoles provide targeted arch support to reduce strain on the plantar fascia. The SensiFit™ system ensures a secure fit that minimizes excessive foot movement, while the Energy Cell midsole absorbs impact forces that can aggravate plantar fasciitis pain. Together, these technologies create a supportive environment that helps reduce inflammation and discomfort during hiking activities.

What is the sizing like for these shoes?

Based on customer feedback, the Salomon X Ultra 4 shoes tend to run about a half size larger than their labeled size. For example, a size 10.5 is approximately 11 inches long. For the best fit, we recommend measuring your foot from the back of your heel to the tip of your longest toe against a flat wall, then selecting a size accordingly. Many customers find that ordering a half size smaller than their usual shoe size provides the perfect fit with standard socks.

Are these shoes waterproof?

The standard Salomon X Ultra 4 model featured here is water-resistant but not fully waterproof. It's designed to keep your feet dry when walking through puddles and light rain, with water resistance up to the ankle. The breathable mesh upper allows for excellent ventilation, which helps keep feet cool and reduces moisture buildup inside the shoe. For those needing complete waterproofing, Salomon does offer a Gore-Tex (GTX) version of these shoes, which provides enhanced protection in wet conditions.

How durable are these hiking shoes?

The Salomon X Ultra 4 shoes are built for exceptional durability. Many customers report using previous models for 700+ miles of backpacking before needing replacement. The Contagrip® MA outsole is designed to withstand rough terrain while maintaining its tread pattern. The reinforced toe cap provides additional protection against rocks and trail debris. With proper care, these shoes can withstand years of regular hiking use, making them a worthwhile investment for outdoor enthusiasts with plantar fasciitis who need reliable, supportive footwear.

What's the difference between the X Ultra 3 and X Ultra 4?

The X Ultra 4 represents an evolution of the popular X Ultra 3 model with several key improvements. The 4s feature a lighter feel with a meshier upper that brings them closer to trail runners while maintaining robust support. The stability is enhanced with a slightly flared outside upper edge that helps prevent ankle rolling. The shoe also hugs the cradle below the ankle more effectively for added support. While they maintain the same great lacing system and outstanding grip as the 3s, the 4s offer improved comfort and stability specifically beneficial for hikers with plantar fasciitis.