The best women's dress sandals for plantar fasciitis in 2017 were defined by a rigorous balance of orthotic support and aesthetic elegance, specifically featuring contoured arch support, deep heel cups, and impact-absorbing midsoles. Key selections from Vionic, Naot, Dansko, Orthofeet, and Abeo dominated the market for providing relief without sacrificing formal style.
Understanding the Challenge of Formal Footwear and Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, involving inflammation of a thick band of tissue—the plantar fascia—that runs across the bottom of each foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. For women navigating formal events, weddings, or professional environments in 2017, the search for appropriate footwear was often a choice between "sensible" orthopedic shoes that lacked style or "fashionable" sandals that exacerbated sharp, stabbing pains.
The biomechanical requirement for a dress sandal to effectively manage plantar fasciitis centers on the medial longitudinal arch. Without proper support, the arch collapses upon weight-bearing (overpronation), putting excessive tension on the plantar fascia. In a dress sandal, which often has less material than a sneaker, this support must be integrated into the footbed itself. Furthermore, the 2017 market saw a significant shift toward "athleisure" technology being hidden within formal silhouettes, allowing for a "hidden" orthotic experience.
Criteria for Selection: What Made a "Best" Sandal in 2017?
To determine the top five sandals of the 2017 season, several technical factors were analyzed. These criteria were essential for ensuring that a sandal could be worn for several hours during a standing event without resulting in the "first step in the morning" pain typical of the condition.
- Anatomic Arch Support: The footbed must mimic the natural shape of the foot to redistribute pressure away from the heel and forefoot.
- Heel Seat and Stability: A deep heel cup is necessary to stabilize the calcaneus (heel bone) and provide natural cushioning via the foot's own fat pad.
- Midsole Composition: Use of materials like EVA (Ethylene-vinyl acetate) or cork-latex blends that offer shock absorption.
- Forefoot Flexibility vs. Rearfoot Rigidity: The sandal should bend at the toe but remain firm through the arch and heel.
- Adjustability: Multiple points of adjustment (hook-and-loop or buckles) to accommodate swelling and ensure a secure fit, preventing the toes from "clawing" to keep the shoe on.
1. Vionic Rest Bella II: The Gold Standard for Orthotic Elegance
In 2017, the Vionic Rest Bella II stood out as the premier choice for women who needed a dressy thong sandal that didn't compromise on podiatric health. Vionic, a brand built on the "Orthaheel" technology developed by podiatrist Phillip Vasyli, specialized in "realigning" the foot to its natural position.
Technical Performance
The Bella II featured a built-in, lightweight, flexible EVA midsole that acted as a shock absorber for the entire foot. Its most critical feature for plantar fasciitis sufferers was the FMT Technology, designed to provide a deep heel cup and substantial arch support. This biomechanical contouring helped reduce overpronation, which is a primary trigger for plantar fascia strain.
Aesthetic and Utility
Unlike traditional orthopedic sandals, the Bella II utilized a delicate bow detail and a variety of finishes, including patent leather and metallic textures. It proved that a "flip-flop" style could be elevated to a dressy-casual level suitable for garden weddings or summer soirées. The microfiber-covered footbed was also essential for moisture management, preventing the foot from sliding—a common cause of instability-related pain.
2. Naot Elegant Collection: The Kayla Sandal
The Naot Kayla remained a perennial favorite in 2017 for those requiring a more structured, multi-strap dress sandal. Naot, an Israeli brand, is world-renowned for its unique footbed construction made of natural substances.
The Cork and Latex Advantage
The Kayla featured a footbed made of a blend of natural cork and latex. This material is highly responsive; it is firm enough to provide the necessary support for the plantar fascia but pliable enough to "memorize" the shape of the wearer's foot over time. For women with chronic heel pain, this custom-molded feel offered a level of pressure distribution that synthetic materials often struggle to match.
Stability and Design
The 1.5-inch heel height of the Kayla was particularly beneficial. Podiatrists often recommend a slight elevation for plantar fasciitis, as a completely flat shoe can increase the tension on the Achilles tendon and the plantar fascia. The three-strap design provided exceptional stability, ensuring the foot remained locked over the arch support, while the variety of leather finishes made it a versatile choice for professional and formal settings.
3. Dansko Sophie: The Modern Wedge Slide
While Dansko is best known for its professional clogs, the Dansko Sophie was a standout in their 2017 "Sausalito" collection, offering a dressier slide option with the same legendary support.
Biomechanical Rocker Bottom
The Sophie utilized a dual-density EVA footbed with memory foam topping. What set this sandal apart for plantar fasciitis was the slight rocker bottom geometry. This design encourages a natural heel-to-toe gait cycle, which reduces the amount of force the foot has to absorb during the "push-off" phase of walking. By minimizing the flexion required by the foot, the tension on the plantar fascia is significantly reduced.
Customizability
The Sophie featured two adjustable straps with decorative buckles. This was crucial for women who experienced localized swelling or those with high insteps. By allowing the wearer to tighten or loosen the sandal across different parts of the foot, the Sophie ensured that the arch support stayed in the exact anatomical position required for therapeutic benefit.
4. Orthofeet Verona: Medical-Grade Support in a Sandal
In 2017, the Orthofeet Verona was often cited as the "problem-solver" sandal. Orthofeet's approach was more clinical, focusing on "bio-mechanical" design for those with severe foot sensitivities, including those with both plantar fasciitis and diabetes.
Ortho-Cushion System
The Verona utilized the Ortho-Cushion system, which featured an anatomical orthotic insole with a cushioning heel pad. This was one of the few dressy sandals in 2017 that offered a truly "pillowy" feel without losing the structural integrity needed to support the arch. The air-cushioning in the sole helped attenuate the impact of every step on hard surfaces, which is where many plantar fasciitis sufferers struggle most.
Innovative Strap Design
The Verona's design included a unique two-way strap system, allowing the sandal to be opened and closed from either side. For formal events where comfort is paramount, the extra-depth design and the non-binding upper helped eliminate pressure points on bunions or hammertoes, which often co-occur with plantar fasciitis.
5. Abeo B.I.O.system Mila: Personalized Arch Support
The Abeo Mila, part of the B.I.O.system (Built-In Orthotic) line found at The Walking Company, offered a unique proposition in 2017: a dress sandal customized to the wearer's specific arch type.
The Three-Arch System
Plantar fasciitis is not a "one size fits all" condition. Some sufferers have high arches (pes cavus), while others have flat feet (pes planus). The Mila was available in "Neutral," "Metatarsal," and "Varus" versions. The "Metatarsal" version was particularly effective for 2017 consumers, as it included a built-in pad to relieve pressure on the ball of the foot, which often takes extra load when a person tries to compensate for heel pain.
Quality Construction
The Mila was a wedge sandal that successfully hid its orthopedic features within a stylish, strappy leather upper. It utilized a sturdy molded EVA midsole and a durable rubber outsole for traction. By integrating the orthotic directly into the footbed, Abeo eliminated the "clunky" look of removable insoles, making it a top choice for formal summer wear.
Technical Comparison of Top 2017 Models
The following table compares the primary features of these five leading sandals based on their 2017 specifications.
| Sandal Model | Primary Support Material | Heel Height | Key Benefit for PF | Style Profile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vionic Bella II | EVA with FMT Tech | 1 inch | Corrects overpronation | Dressy-Casual Thong |
| Naot Kayla | Cork and Latex | 1.5 inches | Molds to foot shape | Classic Multi-Strap |
| Dansko Sophie | Dual-Density EVA | 2 inches | Rocker-bottom gait help | Wedge Slide |
| Orthofeet Verona | Air-Cushioned Sole | 1.25 inches | High shock absorption | Adjustable Comfort |
| Abeo Mila | B.I.O.system EVA | 2.25 inches | Customized arch types | Formal Wedge |
The Science of Shock Absorption and Plantar Fasciitis
When selecting dress sandals in 2017, the focus was often on impact attenuation. For a person with plantar fasciitis, the initial "heel strike" sends a shock wave through the calcaneus and into the inflamed fascia.
Research from 2017 and prior, such as studies published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research, highlighted that footwear with increased midfoot contact area can significantly lower peak pressures under the heel. The five sandals listed above all achieve this by filling the "gap" under the arch. By increasing the surface area of the foot in contact with the shoe, the force of each step is distributed across the entire foot rather than being concentrated on the painful heel.
According to the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), looking for their "Seal of Acceptance" was a key step for consumers in 2017. This seal indicated that a committee of podiatrists had reviewed the shoe's design to ensure it promoted good foot health. Brands like Vionic and Dansko frequently carried this seal, providing a layer of medical verification for their 2017 product lines.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Dress Sandals
Even when a sandal claims to be "comfortable," it may not be suitable for plantar fasciitis. In 2017, several "fashion" trends were identified as particularly harmful for those with chronic heel pain:
- Completely Flat "Gladiator" Sandals: These typically lack any arch support or cushioning, forcing the plantar fascia to stretch excessively with every step.
- Flimsy "Flip-Flops": If a sandal can be easily folded in half or twisted like a towel (poor torsional stability), it will not provide the support needed to rest the inflamed tissue.
- High Stiletto Heels: While a slight heel is good, a high, thin heel shifts all weight to the forefoot and creates an unstable base for the heel, often leading to secondary issues like calf tightness, which further pulls on the plantar fascia.
- Lack of Heel Straps: Sandals that require the toes to "grip" the footbed to stay on can cause the fascia to tighten, preventing it from healing.
Expert Fitting and Maintenance Tips
For these 2017 models to be effective, proper fit was mandatory. A sandal that is too short will cause the arch support to hit the foot in the wrong place, potentially causing more pain.
- Measure at the End of the Day: Feet tend to swell throughout the day. To ensure a dress sandal remains comfortable during an evening event, it should be fitted when the feet are at their largest.
- Check the "Break-In" Period: Cork-based sandals like the Naot Kayla require a break-in period of about 1-2 weeks. It was recommended in 2017 to wear these around the house for short periods before a major event.
- Replace Regularly: Even the best orthotic sandals lose their structural integrity. For those wearing these sandals daily in 2017, podiatrists recommended replacement every 6 to 12 months, or as soon as the midsole showed signs of compression or "bottoming out."
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I wear these sandals if I have high arches?
Yes, but you should prioritize models like the Abeo Mila or Naot Kayla. High arches (pes cavus) require footwear that fills the arch gap to provide "contact" support. Without this, the weight remains concentrated on the heel and the ball of the foot, which can exacerbate plantar fasciitis.
Are these 2017 sandals suitable for all-day walking?
While designed for "dress" occasions, most of these brands utilize footbeds that are more supportive than standard walking shoes. The Vionic and Orthofeet models are particularly well-suited for extended periods of standing or walking because their footbeds are engineered for therapeutic support.
Is a wedge better than a flat sandal for heel pain?
Generally, a low wedge (1 to 2 inches) is better for plantar fasciitis than a completely flat sandal. The slight elevation helps to shorten the Achilles tendon and the plantar fascia, reducing the tension and "pull" on the heel bone. The Dansko Sophie and Abeo Mila are excellent examples of this "sweet spot" in heel height.
How can I tell if my old sandals from 2017 are still good?
Check the "twist test." Hold the heel in one hand and the toe in the other; if the shoe twists easily in the middle, the support has likely failed. Also, look at the heel from the back on a flat surface. If the heel is tilted to one side (worn down), it will cause your foot to misalign and should be replaced.
Do these sandals work for heel spurs too?
Yes. Heel spurs are often a secondary development of long-term plantar fasciitis. The deep heel cups found in the Vionic Bella II and the cushioning in the Orthofeet Verona are specifically designed to cradle the heel and provide a "pocket" of relief for bony protrusions.
Practical Recommendation
For women seeking the best balance of medical-grade support and sophisticated style from the 2017 era, the Vionic Rest Bella II remains the most recommended entry-point for dressy-casual needs due to its APMA-accepted design. For formal events requiring a higher heel or more structure, the Naot Kayla or Abeo Mila offer the best combination of custom-molding support and aesthetic versatility. Always ensure that the sandal remains firm through the midfoot and provides a secure, adjustable fit to maximize the therapeutic benefits for the plantar fascia.
