Individuals with diabetes are aware that poorly managed blood glucose levels can cause a wide variety of complications. And most of them will involve foot problems. This lifetime condition can result in loss of feeling in your lower extremities, due to low blood and glucose supply.
This condition can cause nerve damages, thus affecting your ability to know when you injured your feet. And in severe cases, it can result in serious infections that require amputation. Low blood supply can also affect the ability of your body to heal itself.
The feet of a person with diabetes are also prone to edema or swelling. Luckily, these diabetes-related issues can be prevented by wearing the right shoes. Other than keeping your feet dry and comfortable, the right footwear can protect you against potential injuries.
Choosing the right diabetes footwear for you can be quite tricky, especially with the many options available. So, we have prepared this review of the best shoes for diabetics to help you make the right choice.
OUR TOP PICK
Our favorite pair is New Balance 608 V5 cross trainer, as it can be worn on any occasion.
The Best Shoes for Diabetes Are:
| Product | Details | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. New Balance 608 V5 Cross Trainer |  Top Pick |
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| 2. Skechers Go Walk 4 Walking Shoes |  |
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| 3. Propet Lifewalker Strap |  |
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| 4. New Balance 577 V1 Walking Shoes |  |
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| 5. Propet Vista Strap Shoes |  |
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1. New Balance 608 V5 Cross Trainer — Best Sneakers for Diabetics
New Balance 608 V5 is flexible footwear that provides the versatility and performance needed by a diabetic foot. And the fact that it can be worn to any occasion makes it an ideal diabetic shoe. These comfortable shoes are well cushioned, and they also include the long-lasting NB comfort inserts.
608 V5 features a shock minimizing heels that will protect you from hard impacts. New Balance 608 V5 is mostly the best shoe for diabetics and is an excellent option for preventing your foot from feeling uncomfortable or swelling.
With this pair, you can take part in numerous sporting activities without worrying about injuries. This shoe comes with a dual-density collar that features a high-density form for providing support. It also has softer density foam against the foot that helps with cushioning.
This mid-range footwear for diabetics can protect your feet from swelling or hurting. Plus, it will manage all the high impact pressure without affecting your feet. However, many wearers have complained about the durability of this pair.
Specs
- Material: leather
- Sole: rubber
- Size: 4-14 (US)
Pros
- Exceptionally comfortable footwear
- Highly versatile
- Well-cushioned
- Has a mesh tongue
- Available in a wide range of colors
Cons
- Many wearers have questioned the durability of this footwear
Overall Rating – 4.6 out of 5
Conclusion
New Balance 608 V5 is unique diabetic footwear that can be worn on any occasion. This flexible diabetic shoe can provide the needed comfort and support.
2. Skechers Go Walk 4 Walking Shoes— Best Walking Shoes for Diabetics
Skechers go walk 4 is the ultimate walking shoes for individuals with diabetes. This pair provides diabetic feet with the needed comfort and performance. Go walk 4 provides natural strides that interact and respond to different surfaces.
This footwear is designed to protect your feet from being stressed by uneven surfaces. It comes with a rubber sole and 1.5-inch heel that keep your feet protected. This flexible footwear can accommodate the swollen feet of a diabetic individual.
It has a three-layered rubber sole that can withstand different types of weather and surfaces. This shoe comes with a memory foam cushion that helps with shock absorption. Go walk 4 has a unique tapering midfoot design that improves your arch support. And its soft mesh upper provides a comfortable fit.
Plus, the new Goga Max high footbed helps energize your steps. Go Walk 4 is available in a wide range of colors. So, you can get a pair that matches your style. However, its sole wears out quickly. However, some users have complained about its sole wearing out at a very fast rate.
Specs
- Material: mesh fabric
- Sole: rubber
- Size: 5-13 (US)
Pros
- Flexible and comfortable outsole
- Well-cushioned
- Lightweight
- Unique rear heel pull
Cons
- The sole wears out quickly
Overall Rating – 4.5 out of 5
Conclusion
Skechers Go Walk 4 is a well-cushioned pair that provides the needed comfort and performance for diabetic feet.
3. Propet Lifewalker Strap
Propet Lifewalker is Medicare-approved footwear for individuals with diabetes. This shoe has more than enough room for your toes thanks to its wide toe box. It also provides excellent ankle support, and it propels you forward without stressing your feet. It has a unique EVA midsole that offers additional arch support.
Propet Lifewalker features a perforated leather upper that keeps your feet dry. Its deep-cut grip rubber sole helps with shock absorption. Its fully padded footbed and lining help you feel comfortable with every step. It also features a removable cushioned orthotic.
Therefore, you can use it with your customized orthotic midsole for extra padding. The hook-and-loop fastening on the straps makes wearing and removing this shoe quite easy. However, for such reliable footwear, it can be a tad heavy for some users
Specs
- Sole: rubber
- Material: leather
- Size: 7-15 (US)
Pros
- Helps control pronation
- Easy to wear
- Removable insole
- Well-padded footwear
- Dual-heel counters
Cons
- It is heavier than other footwear
Overall Rating – 4.3 out of 5
Conclusion
The rocker feature on this footwear propels you forward without stressing your feet. And the fact that it has a wide toe box and provides support makes it the best tennis shoes for diabetics.
4. New Balance 577 V1 Walking Shoes
New Balance has produced some of the best walking shoes on the planet, and New Balance 577 V1 is no exception. New Balance manufactures all-round comfortable shoes and New Balance 577 V1is one of the best shoes for diabetic.
This shoe comes with a leather layer and a synthetic supportive overlay that adds comfort when walking. Its durable rubber outsole gives it durability making sure that you can walk even in rough terrains.
It provides a perfect combination of comfort and stability. Plus, you can wear them every day for long walks on different surfaces, including concrete, mud, and trails. This shoe is made using soft leather that is well-padded on the inside. New Balance 577 V1 feels comfortable from the first day you wear them.
This pair comes equipped with ABZORD cushioning on the heel to help with shock absorption. The ABZORD cushioning provides lasting comfort and stability in every step. However, many users have complained that it squeaks.
Specs
- Sole: rubber
- Size: 4-13.5 (US)
- Material: leather size: 4-13.5 (US)
Pros
- Walk-specific comfortable footbed
- Well-padded
- Made from soft leather
- Durable
- Lightweight
Cons
- It squeaks when you walk
Overall Rating – 4.2 out of 5
Conclusion
This walking shoe provides comfort and style irrespective of where the day takes you.
5. Propet Vista Strap Shoes
Propet vista strap is another comfortable diabetic footwear from Propet that is great for workouts and wearing to work. This shoe comes with a dual strap closure that makes it easy to adjust when your feet swell.
Propet added comfortable cushioning to many key stress points so that you will feel well cushioned and less restricted. It has a PU unit sole that helps provide cushioning and traction throughout its lifespan. It has firm heels that keep you stable and a removable footbed. Therefore, you can use your customized orthotics with this footwear.
It has a full-grained leather upper, merging with the mesh lining to give this shoe a breathable element. This AMPA approved footwear is highly recommended by podiatrists thanks to its design and support features. However, it is only available in neutral colors.
Specs
- Sole: synthetic
- Material: leather
- Size: 7-15 (US)
Pros
- Highly Durable
- Well-cushioned
- Affordable
- Dual strap closure
- Lightweight
Cons
- It is available in neutral colors
Overall Rating – 4.3 out of 5
Conclusion
Being AMPA approved, you can rest assured that podiatrists highly recommend this shoe. Despite being available in neutral colors, it can easily match with almost every outfit in your wardrobe.
How To Choose The Best Shoes For Diabetics
Diabetes is a lifelong condition that can become dangerous if not well managed. Poorly managed blood glucose levels can result in numerous complications, with the most common ones being feet issues.
And in severe cases, it can result in serious infections that require amputation. Diabetes can trigger nerve damage, making it impossible for you to know when you sustained an injury. Fortunately, this condition can be managed and prevented by wearing the right shoes.
But, choosing the right footwear can be quite challenging, particularly with the many options available. Remember, the problem can become severe if you wear the wrong pair. So, we have some unique tips that you must consider when buying the right diabetic shoes.
Comfort
Comfort is a crucial factor when buying any shoes, but with diabetic footwear, it is a necessity. The ideal footwear for people with diabetes must cater to numerous needs, including numb toes and skin sensitivities.
People with diabetes don’t have the luxury of breaking in a new pair. And that is because their feet don’t have the sensitivity to determine if a pair is too tight.
Therefore, ideal diabetic footwear must be comfortable with ample toe room. Remember, the design, material, and sizing also play a vital role in the shoe’s overall comfort. The right shoe must not be too big or too small. Look for a comfortable pair with enough room for your feet to wiggle.
Breathability
The materials used to make a pair of shoe matter, especially when dealing with diabetic footwear. A pair that is too hot can cause your feet to sweat, and this can be an issue with a person with diabetes. Some of the best materials for making diabetic shoes include:
- Suede
- Perforated leather
- Flexible soft mesh
- Textile
- Canvas
Heavy shoes can also add heat; therefore, boots can be an issue. Look for a pair that is flexible, comfortable, and has some form of breathability feature. Remember, dry feet are not susceptible to blisters and bacterial or fungal infections.
Stability
People with diabetes need shoes that can provide sufficient support. A pair that provides sufficient support can keep you safe, thus preventing injuries. An ideal diabetic shoe has a well-cushioned heel and supportive upper portion.
It should also be able to prevent excessive inward and outward motion. And if you suffer from other ankle issues like over-pronation, you should consider when looking for a diabetic shoe.
Adjustability
Searching for the right diabetic pair can be very frustrating. There are numerous factors that you must consider, and the most important one that is usually overlooked is adjustability. The ability to easily adjust the fit of your shoe quickly when your feet swell is essential. So the best type of footwear should have:
- Velcro Straps
- Stretch laces
- Long straps and buckle
Final Thoughts
Diabetes is a dangerous lifelong condition that can turn severe if not well managed. It can cause numerous complications, with the main ones being feet issues. Luckily, these complications can be managed by wearing the right diabetic shoes.
With the right support and proper cushioning, your feet can be safe the whole day, especially with edema. Remember, diabetes can cause nerve damages, and this can make it impossible for you to know if you are injured. So, make sure you get the right fit with a roomy toe box.
From our research, we have confirmed that the New Balance 608 V5 cross trainer is the best option. This well-cushioned footwear can prevent your feet from swelling or feeling uncomfortable.
