Night splints are one of the more evidence-supported conservative treatments for plantar fasciitis, working by keeping the fascia in a stretched position overnight so it doesn't contract and cause the sharp first-step pain in the morning. The Strassburg Sock is a soft-splint alternative to the rigid boot-style designs.
The reason they work: plantar fasciitis pain is worst in the morning because the fascia contracts overnight. A night splint keeps it gently stretched, preventing that contraction. Here are the five best options in 2026.
Buy this if
- You have sharp heel pain for the first few steps in the morning
- You've been told your heel pain is consistent with plantar fasciitis
Skip it if
- You can't tolerate anything on your foot while sleeping, compliance matters more than rigidity here
- Your pain isn't concentrated in the morning
What to look for
How we choose
We compare soft-splint versus rigid designs, the dorsiflexion angle each provides, realistic comfort and compliance (a splint you won't wear all night doesn't help), and how adjustable the fit is, based on manufacturer specs and verified owner feedback.
Our rankings reflect editorial judgment based on that evaluation, not a clinical trial. If plantar fasciitis pain persists despite consistent splint use, talk to a podiatrist about other treatment options.
The 5 best options in 2026
A soft-splint alternative to rigid boot-style designs, and the comfort difference is the whole story. The compliance advantage is real: patients actually wear it all night because it's comfortable, which matters more than a rigid splint's theoretical hold if nobody keeps it on. Strap length is adjustable to dial in the stretch angle.
- Far more comfortable than rigid night splints
- Most comfortable option — patients actually wear it all night
- Adjustable stretch angle
- Machine washable
- Less rigid control than boot splints
- Takes a few nights to get comfortable
The best rigid night splint for patients who need more controlled dorsiflexion than a sock provides. Dorsal (top of foot) design is more comfortable than posterior (heel) splints because it doesn't put pressure on the heel during sleep. Adjustable straps allow precise angle setting.
- More controlled dorsiflexion than sock splints
- Dorsal design avoids heel pressure during sleep
- Adjustable angle
- Durable construction
- Bulkier than sock splints — sleep disruption is more common
- Getting up at night requires more effort
Not sure which is right for you?
A podiatrist can evaluate your gait and foot type to give a precise recommendation.
A functional rigid night splint at a price point that makes trying one accessible. The wedge design holds the foot in dorsiflexion and the padded liner reduces pressure points. Appropriate for mild to moderate plantar fasciitis where you want to try night splinting without committing to a more expensive device.
- Accessible entry price
- Functional dorsiflexion
- Padded liner
- Good for trying night splinting
- Less refined than premium options
- May need to size up for wide feet
The middle ground between the Strassburg Sock and a rigid boot — a soft splint that provides more structure than a sock but more comfort than hard plastic. Three adjustable straps allow customization of the stretch angle. Better for patients who found the Strassburg Sock insufficient but can't tolerate a rigid boot.
- More structured than sock but more comfortable than rigid boot
- Three adjustable straps
- Removable insert for washing
- Good middle ground option
- Straps can loosen overnight
A rigid, wedge-based splint from an established orthopedic brand, for patients who want a more structured hold than a soft sock provides. The adjustable wedge lets you increase the stretch angle gradually as your tolerance builds, rather than committing to one fixed angle from night one.
- Rigid support holds the stretch angle precisely
- Adjustable wedge for gradual intensity increases
- From an established orthopedic brand (ProCare/DJO)
- Good option if soft-sock designs haven't been enough
- Bulkier than sock-style options
- Takes more adjustment to sleep with than a soft splint
The bottom line
The Strassburg Sock is the right first choice for most patients — the compliance advantage (people actually wear it) combined with the best published clinical outcomes makes it the default recommendation. Upgrade to a rigid splint only if the sock doesn't provide sufficient stretch after 2-3 weeks.
Consistency matters more than the specific device. Wearing a mediocre splint every night outperforms wearing the best splint inconsistently. Whatever you choose, commit to 8 weeks of nightly use before evaluating whether it's working.
Want a personalized recommendation?
A podiatrist can evaluate your gait and foot type for a precise fit recommendation.