Plantar Fasciitis and Running

[KnottedYet]

As far as modern shoes, why do they (almost) all have an elevated heel? That changes the whole weight distribution of the body and interferes with walking mechanics causing the heel to hit the ground harder and earlier than it otherwise would. A lot of shoes also don't give the toes enough room to spread out and work the way they are supposed to.

Part of it must be fashion. Part of it (like in running shoes) is probably intended for shock absorption. Part of it (like in hiking shoes) is a need for a heel that can help with grip and balance like our own heel would if we were barefoot.

I cannot run well in running shoes. I wear Chacos to run in, and have much happier feet, knees, and hips now. Looking at the pair I'm wearing right now, there isn't much difference in sole depth between the heel and the ball of the foot. http://www.chacousa.com/US/en-US/Pro.../Black/J100024 (the lateral counters create an optical illusion that the heel is thicker, but it actually isn't)

ETA: I just got out a tape measure: the sole at the heel is 1.5cm thick, and at the ball of the foot it is 1.75 cm thick, tapering out to 0.6 cm at the tip. (these measurements don't include the replaceable outsole/traction layer, so there is no distortion from wear) Looks like Chacos are built a little bit like Earth shoes, with the heel lower than the ball of the foot.