BEST SHOES FOR DIABETICS [10 Recommended Shoes]

People with diabetes are more prone to develop foot problems because of poorly controlled blood sugar that may affect nerves and vessels that go to the feet. Wearing specifically designed footwear can help you reduce this risk and promote blood circulation in your feet.

Several diabetic shoes are out there in the market with soft shoe materials and special protective inserts to accommodate neuropathy, foot deformities, and poor circulation that can help reduce the chance of foot sores and protect them from getting injured.

If you are a shopper on Amazon.com, here is my list of recommended shoes for diabetes that Amazon is selling. 

1. Propét Women’s Tour Walker Strap Sneaker
2. Propét Men’s Lifewalker Strap Walking Shoe
3. Propet Women’s Travelactiv Fashion Sneaker
4. New Balance Men’s Made in Us 1540 V2-Running Shoe
5. Dunham Men’s Captain Boat Shoe
6. Propét Men’s Cush N Foot Slipper
7. New Balance Men’s MX608V3 Cross-Training Shoe
8. Propet Women’s Washable Walker Sneaker
9. Skechers Men’s Equalizer Double Play Slip-On Loafer
10. DENACARE Men’s Diabetic Shoes

Not all of them are specifically diabetic shoes, but I have included them in my list of recommendations because they have some of the major features that can serve those with diabetes.

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How to Choose a Diabetic Shoe

Suppose your diabetes is under control and you don’t have any foot issues. In that case, a regular comfortable, well-fitted shoe is all you need. But if you are suffering from any foot problem, then here are some special features you need to look for while choosing a diabetic shoe.

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1. Extra Depth

While choosing diabetic shoes, make sure that they are ¼ to ½ inch deeper than normal shoes. This extra depth will help you in accommodating foot changes like hammertoes or calluses. The extra depth also allows you enough room for inserts when you need them.

Diabetic shoes need to have extra depth inside the shoe to allow proper foot movement, thus creating a pressure-free environment for your feet. Diabetic footwear with added depth also accommodates diabetic insoles.

Choosing shoes with extra depth in this compartment of the shoe will help protect the nerve when your foot swells. In other cases, your foot may experience pressure in traditional shoes. Avoid restriction in your diabetic shoe; instead, choose a shoe that provides plenty of breathing room.

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2. Seamless Interior 

If you are searching for diabetic shoes, make sure they should be made of soft protective linings without projecting stitching since projection can cause foot irritation and foot health issues such as ulcers or sores.

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3. Padded Interior 

Shoes for diabetics should have a soft foam padding interior because the inner padding will act as a buffer, thus protecting your foot from the harmful exterior. It will also help your foot to fit in comfortably without any pressure.

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4. Extra Cushioning

You should choose diabetic shoes that provide your feet with extra cushioning and support since it helps prevent onset complications. Look for shoes that offer heel and arch support and lots of cushion around the ball of your foot. In case you have sensitive skin, get shoes that have soft fabrics used to avoid any irritation or damage.

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5. Healing Shoes

If you are suffering from foot sores due to diabetes, you can wear healing shoes but only after the doctor’s recommendation. You can either get them in open sandals or closed-toe, whichever suits you. But I wouldn’t recommend open-toed shoes for people with diabetes.

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6. Full Coverage

You may see plenty of diabetes-friendly sandals in the market. I would highly recommend sticking to closed toes shoes to protect your feet from that unwanted injury. A small cut may lead to a problematic infection for diabetics, so you need to minimize the risk of such incidences.

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7. Stretchable Upper

The best diabetic shoes for foot pain need to have soft and stretchable uppers that will help your foot move and eliminate any pressure. This also helps to accommodate your swollen diabetic feet. Avoid choosing shoes having contracting overlays since they add pressure and create potential friction.

It is better not to choose regular shoes made from firm materials since they cause pressure in the forefoot area or the shoe’s back. They might irritate your toes, back of the heel, and bunions.

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8. Wide Toe Box

Choose diabetic shoes with deep toe boxes to offer more room inside the shoe and lessen friction or pressure in the toe area. It also provides much-needed support and comfort and prevents any pain and rubbing during movement.

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9. Multiple Widths

Diabetic shoes should be available in multiple widths since diabetics need to wear wider shoes. Wider shoes will help in creating a non-constrictive environment, which is important for diabetics. Multiple widths will also help to provide a customized fit and protection to your feet.

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10. Ergonomic Soles

Choose diabetic shoes that have lightweight sole since it improves mobility and stability. They also lessen the impact on your foot.

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11. Adjustability  

If you are looking for the best diabetic shoe, make sure it has the adjustability feature; the more it provides adjustability, the better it will fit. Also, choose the diabetic shoes with laces or straps to customize the fit as per your needs.

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12. Orthotics Insoles

Choose shoes with special orthotic insoles that reduce pressure on the bottom of your foot, provide arch support, and offer good cushioning.

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13. Custom Made Shoes

You can also go for custom-made shoes since they are created from the mold of your foot. This is also a good option for people with deformed feet.

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14. Therapeutic Shoes 

Another option is therapeutic shoes, as they are specially designed to keep your feet healthy if you have nerve damage, neuropathy, or a foot injury.

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15. Orthopedic Shoes

Orthopedic shoes are also a good option for diabetics because they provide adequate comfort and lessen foot problems.

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16. Modify Your Shoes

Another great option is modifying the shoes you already own. Simply add a thicker, more shock absorbent sole to your current shoes. You can also add orthotics that are inserts placed in your shoes to provide comfort and take off pressure from your feet.

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See Your Doctor First

Everybody should pay attention to what shoes they wear, but people with diabetes need to be extra careful while choosing their footwear. It is because diabetes can greatly affect the nerves that produce sensations throughout the human body.

Generally, this affects your ability to feel sensation in your feet, which may make diabetics vulnerable to developing calluses, ulcers, and feet sores. Therefore comfortable footwear can help you maintain healthier feet with less pain.

Footwear for diabetics needs to be properly fitting and accommodate your foot’s shape. For this reason, it is wise to choose diabetic shoes and a doctor may have several suggestions. These types of shoes are comfortable, provide proper support and cushioning, but you want to consult your doctor first.

https://youtu.be/IHKmqW9vOVM

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How Your Doctor Can Help

You need to visit your doctor, podiatrist, endocrinologist, or someone who can check the health of your feet and recommend the right footwear. You can also visit a specialist to get fitted. I would also suggest you see an orthopedist if you need a shoe designed specifically for your feet.

• Your doctor may advise you regarding your shoe choices as per your health and physique.
  • Most commonly, diabetics are advised not to wear high-heeled shoes, open-toed sandals or shoes, and shoes with a narrow toe box. These shoes can cause pressure on your foot or may allow debris to enter around your foot.
• Regardless of the shoe, diabetics need to get their feet checked regularly to avoid the development of any sore or pressure areas.
  • Even if you have a subtle abnormality, you should address it as soon as possible before it becomes a significant issue.
• There is no specific shoe or brand that is best for everyone, but you should get a shoe that fits properly and is comfortable. Your doctor can double-check your shoe fit.
  • An excellent approach would be working with someone (maybe your doctor) who can customize your shoes according to your specific needs. 

You can also visit specialty footwear stores offering custom fitting. But in any case, consulting your doctor is crucial.

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Top 10 Diabetic Shoes

Here is my list of the top 10 recommended shoes for diabetics. Though some of the mentioned shoes aren’t specifically designed for diabetics, because of their features, they may work in the same way as a diabetic shoe. So let’s discuss in detail some of the major attributes of these shoes and the reasons to buy them.

1. Propét Women’s Tour Walker Strap Sneaker

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Reasons to Buy

• Propét Women’s Tour Walker Strap Sneakers gives a decent amount of arch support. If you are looking for shoes with a roomy toe box, you can check them out. These shoes provide a perfect ankle curve that doesn’t come up too high.
• I think these shoes help people with bunions because they do not have decorative stitching on the toe or side panels, making them painless to wear.
• I would recommend these sneakers for people walking every day for miles. Because of its Velcro closure, they are to put on and take off. They would cooperate with you in any weather since the leather exterior protects them from exposure to debris.

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2. Propét Men’s Lifewalker Strap Walking Shoe

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Reasons to buy

• In my opinion, these shoes are great for people with disability issues or people who have limited mobility. Because of their wide size and padded interior, they provide adequate comfort to your feet compared to traditional shoes, thus allowing you to walk for moderate distances.
• I think people looking for lightweight and comfortable shoes would love them. They provide a proper and roomy shoe fit and are easy to use.
• Also, I recommend these shoes for severe weather because they do not show any sign of wear and tear in rain, snow, or water. You can literally wear them from black-tie to the beach.
• I think these shoes are great for diabetics as they are Medicare-approved and perfect for wide feet. Its rock feature would help you move forward without stressing your feet.

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3. Propet Women’s Travelactiv Fashion Sneaker

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Reasons to Buy

• I would highly recommend these shoes for people with large bunions on their feet. These shoes come with shoelaces, thus giving a much-customized fit to your feet. The material used is flexible, which provides better support to your foot.
• I think these shoes would be helpful for women who have Osteoarthritis of the knees since they cannot wear average women’s sneakers.
• I personally like these shoes because they are extremely light and comfortable and comes in a lot of colors and styles.
• These shoes are ideal for people looking for a wide toe box. Their toe box is ample, the heels do not slip, and they won’t give your blisters or sweat your feet.

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4. New Balance Men’s Made in Us 1540 V2-Running Shoe

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Reasons to Buy

• These shoes might be helpful for people suffering from heel pain. You can use them for your daily walk, and they would last you a long time.
• I would highly recommend these shoes for plantar fasciitis. They can instantly relieve your pain.
• If your ankle rolls often, I think these shoes will be your perfect choice. These shoes come in with a rollbar that can easily cut down the number of times your ankle rolls, and they perfectly fit your feet.

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5. Dunham Men’s Captain Boat Shoe

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Reasons to Buy

• I would recommend these shoes, specifically for people looking for the perfect fit. These shoes perfectly fit your feet since they are available in extended sizes and widths; their size works for all.
• What I personally like about these shoes is their classy boat shoe shape designed.
• These shoes are also a great option for people looking for comfort and support, and they might become your go-to shoe choice since 1 pair goes anywhere.

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6. Propét Men’s Cush N Foot Slipper

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Reasons to Buy

• In my opinion, these shoes can be your perfect nighttime comfort slipper or a great option for the post-op patient.
• I love these shoes because of their soft neoprene upper opening and secure hook and loop closure, making them easier to put on and take off.
• I would recommend these shoes for their extended size and width as they come in 3 different widths so your feet can perfectly fit in.
• Propét Men’s Cush N Foot Slippers are one of my favorites on this list because they are protective, stylish, and provide adequate comfort to any foot complications caused by health problems or injury.
• These shoes can also be helpful for people with bunions and hammertoes because of the stretchable material used.

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7. New Balance Men’s MX608V5 Casual Cross-Training Shoe

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Reasons to Buy

• I think these shoes are specifically a great option for men looking for large and wide sneakers. I would recommend these shoes since their size goes all the way up to 18 extra wide.
• I like its availability in so many colors; you can get whichever you like as they are available in 11 colors.
• If you are looking for comfort, these might help you as well because they come with a cushioned insert, soft collar around the ankle, and extra padding in the heel, thus making your walk the utmost comfort.

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8. Propet Women’s Washable Walker Sneaker

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Reasons to Buy

• Another recommendation for plantar fasciitis and bunions would be Propet Women’s Washable Walker Sneakers. It offers good arch support to the plantar fasciitis and causes no pain in the bunion area.
• These shoes are also helpful for people looking for removable insoles. You can easily remove the insole and wear orthotics.
• These shoes can also become your go-to shoes as they look great with whatever you wear. They are perfect for long walking, sightseeing, and standing.
• If you are someone who likes to have neat and tidy shoes, these can be a good option since they are machine washable and you won’t be worried about them getting dirty.

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9. Skechers Men’s Equalizer Double Play Slip-On Loafer

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Reasons to Buy

• These shoes are ideal for diabetic feet since they can easily slip on and off shoes with a flexible and lightweight design.
• I personally like the design of these shoes so I think they would suit you for most of your activities like walking in the park, knocking around the house, sightseeing, or just getting in the car.
• They can be a good option for people looking for a wide and roomy toe area.

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10. DENACARE Men’s Diabetic Shoes

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Reasons to Buy

• The first and most important reason for buying these shoes is that they are made of environment-friendly materials.
• These are another good option for people looking for washable shoes.
• If you are looking for an all-in-one shoe, then, in my opinion, these are the best among my list of recommendations. They can be easily put on and take off. They are lightweight, comfortable, breathable, flexible, and protect your feet.

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Tips for Getting the Right Shoes for Diabetes

Though there are several well-known brands like Hushpuppies, prophet, and New balance that manufacture orthopedic and therapeutic shoes, it can sometimes be tricky to choose the right shoe for diabetes. So here are a few tips that can help you in getting the right shoe for diabetes.

1. When You Buy Diabetic Shoes

While buying shoes for diabetes:

• Look for lightweight, comfortable and breathable shoes that let your feet easily move and breathe.
• Always check the material the shoes are made of. The material used should be flexible such as stretchy fabric and sometimes suede, leather, or canvas.
• While buying shoes, keep in mind that the diabetic shoes should have a shock-absorbing sole that will relieve the pressure on your feet.
• I would suggest picking shoes with laces so you can loosen and tighten them as per your choice. It will also help you in accommodating any changes or swelling in your feet over time.
• Look for a solid heel cup in your shoes to get that extra support.
• Before buying the shoe, make sure it fits your feet well and matches your foot shape.
• Do not buy shoes that are too loose. If your foot slides around inside the shoe this will cause calluses, sores, or blisters.
• Go for the shoes that have wiggle room for your toes, so you can avoid problems like hammertoes.
• For the right fit, see a specialist before buying your new shoes.
• It’s important to wear the socks you normally wear while trying on shoes to ensure proper fit. Some people may want diabetic socks. 

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2, Shoes To Avoid With Foot Problems

There are certain types of shoes that you should avoid wearing if you have diabetes.

• Avoid wearing high heels. If you still want to wear them, make sure they are round-toe style, and the heel is below 2 inches.
• Avoid wearing shoes that do not fit as they can cause injury to your feet.
• Do not wear pointed-toe shoes since those shoes aggravate toes and restrict circulation.
• Avoid wearing shoes without arch support. They can cause the breakdown of tissues in your foot.

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3. Get The Right Shoe Fit

For the right fit, you need to:

• Always get your shoes in the afternoon because, in the afternoon, your feet tend to swell.
• Before buying your shoes, get your feet measured because they can grow.
• While trying on new shoes, make sure to wear the same stockings or socks that you plan to wear with your new shoes.
• Make sure the new shoes can accommodate in orthotic insole if needed.
• Make sure there is enough room between your toes and the top of your shoe.
• Your new shoes should fit snuggly around your heels.

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4. Tips When buying Shoes

Here are a few additional tips that may help you:

• If you can buy two pairs of therapeutic shoes, that could be a great idea so you can alternate between them. This can prolong the lifespan of both pairs and also preserve shock absorption.
• If one of your shoes’ heels begins to wear down, stop wearing them, and transition to a new pair ASAP. Worn-out shoes actually may injure your foot.
• If you wear your diabetic shoes daily, I would advise you to replace the insoles regularly and the shoe when worn down.

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Bonus Tips for Diabetic Feet

Getting new shoes is one way of taking care of your feet, but here are a few tips for diabetic feet to keep them healthy and injure free:

• Make sure to see your podiatrist for regular checkups and take care of your feet daily to keep them healthy and in top shape.
• Check your feet daily to avoid developing any disease, sores, calluses, or ulcers.
• Trim your toenails on a regular basis and prevent ingrown toenails.
• Smooth your calluses gently with an exfoliating foot scrub and pumice stone.
• Wash your feet daily with warm water.
• Avoid using sharp tools and razors on your feet.

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References

1. https://siren.care/blog/top-5-diabetic-shoes-2019/
2. https://www.thehealthy.com/diabetes/best-diabetic-shoes-for-men/
3. https://www.verywellhealth.com/best-diabetic-shoes-4582940
4. https://www.orthofeet.com/blogs/news/the-difference-between-diabetic-shoes-and-regular-shoes
5. https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes/diabetic-shoes#finding-the-right-fit
6. https://www.thehealthy.com/diabetes/best-diabetic-shoes-for-women/
7. https://shoesmentor.com/shoes-for-medical-conditions/best-shoes-for-diabetics/
8. https://www.drcomfort.com/diabetic-shoes
9. https://siren.care/blog/top-5-diabetic-shoes-2019/
10. https://www.orthofeet.com/blogs/news/6-best-walking-shoes-for-diabetics
11. https://www.webmd.com/diabetes/blood-glucose-19/video-how-to-check-your-blood-sugar