Diabetes is a condition that is suffered by millions of people all over the world; diabetes is a lifelong condition that can unfortunately not be cured.

Many people have diabetes and do not know it yet.

There are two types of diabetes, diabetes type one for which you will need to take an insulin supplement daily, and diabetes type two which is less severe and most of the time no insulin is needed, unless the pancreas stopped producing it.

What Exactly is Diabetes

Diabetes occurs when the amount of glucose in your blood becomes too high because your body is not processing it adequately.

This happens because your pancreas does not produce adequate levels of insulin which help glucose to enter the cells in your body, or the insulin that is produced is not functioning correctly, this is called insulin resistance.

Insulin is a hormone generated by the pancreas which allows glucose to enter the body’s cells where it is then used as fuel for energy. Glucose is basically sugar produced by the liver from carbohydrates that are ingested.

How does Diabetes Affect your Feet and Walking

Diabetes can cause quite a severe nerve damage in your body. Nerves that are damaged can stop sending signals to your brain or send the wrong signals.

This, in turn, affects your feet because nerve damages can cause them to become numb so that you do not feel any pain, heat or cold. Feet that have no feeling can become injured or damaged because you will not feel and ill-fitting shoe, blister or even a pebble in your shoe.

Diabetes can also cause poor blood flow meaning that not enough blood will flow to your feet and legs. Poor blood flow can slow down and even completely stop healing when you have an infection or injury.

Infections that do not heal can result in gangrene which in turn can end up in the loss of a limb or in the case of your feet a toe.

The Nerve damage caused by diabetes can change your foot’s shape because the damaged nerves cannot send messages to your foot muscles about movement. Eventually, your foot muscles become weak and completely imbalanced causing bones and toes to shift.

Nerve damage can also cause issues with the joints and soft tissues of your feet; this is called Charcot’s foot.

When you have no feeling in your feet, you will keep on walking even if your feet are being hurt which can lead to issues such as bunions, hammertoes, and many other foot conditions.

Charactaristics of a Good Shoe for Diabetics

Uppers – The main characteristics of a good shoe for a diabetic is that it is made from very soft leather or synthetic materials, it has a deep toe box that is wider and rounder to accommodate conditions such as hammertoes and bunions.

– The main characteristics of a good shoe for a diabetic is that it is made from very soft leather or synthetic materials, it has a deep toe box that is wider and rounder to accommodate conditions such as hammertoes and bunions. Insole – A cushioned and comfortable insole and midsole that absorbs shock and provide good support is ideal.

Outsole Good slip resistance and grip is much needed to protect you from slips and falls.

Orthotics – In some cases where there are severe circulation or sensation issues and significant deformities, a podiatrist will have to prescribe therapeutic footwear and inserts.

Depth – Some patients may require “Depth” shoes with custom molded inserts that help to redistribute pressure on the foot.



Reviews: Best Shoes for Diabetics

Here are a few of the best rated and reviewed shoes for people who suffer from Diabetes;

2 Diabetic Dress Shoes Men's Propet Hugh Click for

Price on

Amazon 49 Reviews Women's Propet Mary Jane Click for

Price on

Amazon 512 Reviews The Propet Mary Jane and Propet Hugh are stunning shoes perfect to use as dress shoes. Comfortable and therapeutic shoes that are rated according to the Medicare/HCPCS code A5500 standards as a diabetic shoe. Top Features:

The uppers are manufactured from soft, smooth leather with an adjustable hook and loop strap for a more customized fit.



The Propet Hugh features a smooth leather slip-on design available in a few color options.



The rubber sole offers excellent grip on many floor surfaces.



A round toe, excellent arch support, and a padded collar add to the comfort and support these shoes will offer.



The polyurethane unit sole aids in shock absorption and improves durability.



The internal heel counter offers even more support.



Available in a range of color designs.



3 Diabetic Sneakers Men's Hey Dude Wally L Stretch Click for

Price on

Amazon 1,383 Reviews Women's Grasshoppers Avery Click for

Price on

Amazon 89 Reviews The Grasshopper Stretch Plus and Wally L are flexible, crisp and snug fitting sneakers that are great for everyday wear. These sneakers will keep you on the go even if you do suffer from diabetic symptoms. Top Features:

Comfortable and flexible uppers for a lightweight and breathable shoe.



The stretch fabric design and adjustable hardware allow for an ideal fit.



The padded collar and mesh tongue in the Stretch Plus ensure a secure and comfortable fit



Textile lining and cushioning for breathable and cushioned support.



A Removable Purefit insole for more comfort and support.



The Flexible rubber midsole ensures easy movement.



A durable, rubber outsole for excellent traction.



Color variety available for both shoes.



4 Walking Shoe for Diabetics Men's Brooks Addiction Walker Click for

Price on

Amazon 2,851 Reviews Women's Brooks Addiction Walker Click for

Price on

Amazon 1,751 Reviews This is a great walking shoe that fits and feels more like a running shoe. The Brooks Addiction Walker is a casual every day walking shoe that is durable and comfortable with all the required features for those who have foot symptoms caused by diabetes. Top Features:

A durable and slip resistant outsole.



Soft full grain leather uppers for a comfortable feel.



Rear and Forefoot Hydroflow for cushioning and shock absorption.



The MOGO midsole gives superb cushioning and reduces shock felt by your feet and lower limbs.



A PDRB triple density post on the medial side of the shoe for more stability.



The S-257 Cushsole is a durable and energy efficient midsole compound that is used as an onboard insole.



compound that is used as an onboard insole. Available in neutral and natural black, white and bone colors.



5 Boot for Diabetes Men's Propet Ridgewalker Click for

Price on

Amazon 677 Reviews Women's Propet Ridgewalker Click for

Price on

Amazon 93 Reviews A versatile and comfortable boot that can be worn casually, for work and many other outdoor adventures and trails. The Propet Ridgewalker is a warm and waterproof boot for the adventurous individual. Top Features:

A soft and breathable suede and mesh upper.



A high-traction rubber sole for good grip on slippery surfaces, cushioning and durability.



Full waterproof bootie construction.



Comfortable padded tongue and collar.



The molded counter and rubber toe bumper ensures added protection and durability.



An EVA midsole for comfort and support.



6 Slip On Walking Shoe for Diabetics Men's Skechers Go Walk 4 Click for

Price on

Amazon Women's Skechers Go Walk 4 Click for

Price on

Amazon 1,776 Reviews Ideal as a casual everyday wear shoe and supportive enough for a walking shoe, you can never go wrong with the Skechers Go Walk. Top Features:

Soft and flexible mesh uppers that are breathable and lightweight.



Easy to slip on and off.



The Ortholite footbed with resalyte cushioning offers excellent support and comfort.



cushioning offers excellent support and comfort. Agion treatment in the soft interior lining controls moisture and odor.



A durable rubber outsole that ensures good traction.



7 Diabetic Adjustable Sandal Men's Vionic Kiwi Slide Click for

Price on

Amazon 268 Reviews Women's Vionic Kiwi Slide Click for

Price on

Amazon 268 Reviews Summer is always a problem when you have a foot condition, particularly related to diabetes.

Most sandals do not offer much support or protection, though that is not the case with the Vionic Kiwi slide. This sandal offers everything you need in an orthopedic shoe, with the cool casualness of a sandal. Top Features:

This sandal features breathable, padded mesh uppers that have a Velcro closing for an adjustable fit.



The TPR outsole with wave patterns on the tread provides the best traction even on wet floor surfaces.



The bio-mechanically designed Orthaheel technology hugs your arches in comfort and support.



hugs your arches in comfort and support. This specific shoe is awarded the APMA seal of acceptance.



8 Hiking Boot for Diabetics Men's Merrel Moab 2 Click for

Price on

Amazon 1,716 Reviews Women's Merrel Moab 2 Click for

Price on

Amazon 994 Reviews If you are the adventurer who loves the outdoors and particularly hiking through nature, do not allow the symptoms of Diabetes to get you down. The Merrell Moab 2 combines all the tough protection of a hiking boot with the comfort features of an orthopedic shoe. Top Features:

Soft and flexible suede and mesh uppers.



A durable rubber sole with a protective rubber toe cap and nylon arch shank.



The Fit Eco, EVA blended and contoured footbed with zonal arch and heel support, ensures you have the best in therapeutic comfort technology.



A Select dry mesh lining seals out water while still allowing moisture to escape from the inside.



9 Diabetic Athletic Shoe Men's Dr. Comfort Performance-X Click for

Price on

Amazon 207 Reviews Women's Dr. Comfort Victory Click for

Price on

Amazon 3 Reviews For all those avid walkers out there, these athletic shoes are the ideal if you suffer from diabetes or even other conditions that may affect your feet. Top Features:

The leather and mesh uppers are lightweight and breathable with a seamless padded lining.



Extra depth allows for a better fit for individuals who require an additional volume.



Elastic lace closure for a customized fit, and Velcro strap for the women’s.



Available in wider widths to accommodate different foot conditions.



Comes with a comfortable and supportive gel insert.



Thick and durable, shock absorbing outsole.



10 Diabetic Walking Shoe Men's Propet Life Walker Click for

Price on

Amazon 2,084 Reviews Women's Propet Life Walker Click for

Price on

Amazon 242 Reviews The Ortholite Life walker is a comfortable and lightweight walking shoe, ideal for everyday wear and for individuals who have foot conditions related to medical conditions such as Diabetes and neuropathy. Top Features:

Soft and comfortable, genuine leather uppers with a brushed nylon lining, and padded collar.



A built-in heel stabilizer and Velcro, or lacing closure, for a customized and supportive fit.



The Ortholite insole with memory foam on the top ensures that you have all day plush comfort.



A durable and high traction, rubber outsole that will keep you firmly on your feet.



12 Comfortable Outdoor Walking Boots Men's Dr. Comfort Ranger Click for

Price on

Amazon 320 Reviews Women's Dr. Comfort Vigor Click for

Price on

Amazon 5 Reviews These are excellent outdoor and hiking walking boots that have been designed to provide relief to symptoms associated with conditions such as Arthritis and Diabetes. Top Features:

Classic Hiking boot style with a supportive ankle.



An elastic lace closure with a hook and loop strap for the perfect fit.



Inside there is a Gel insert and stay dry lining to keep your feet dry and comfortable.



to keep your feet dry and comfortable. Soft and supple seamless uppers with extra depth and width in the toe area.



with extra depth and width in the toe area. A durable high traction outsole ideal for all trail walking surfaces.



Available in extended sizes and widths.



13 Lightweight Walking Shoes for Diabetes Men's Orthofeet Edgewater Click for

Price on

Amazon 170 Reviews Women's Orthofeet Sandy Click for

Price on

Amazon 164 Reviews Lightweight and highly breathable Walking shoes that are soft and gentle on your feet, with a high traction outsole. Top Features:

Lightweight and breathable upper construction that is gentle on your feet.



A premium orthotic insole with anatomical arch support and ample cushioning.



The Ortho-Cushion system is bio-mechanically engineered to alleviate stress on your joints.



A non-binding, seamless and extra depth design for more toe room and less irritation.



design for more toe room and less irritation. The outsole is durable and offers excellent traction.



14 Diabetic Feet dress Shoes Men's Orthofeet Gramercy Click for

Price on

Amazon 260 Reviews Women's Orthofeet Click for

Price on

Amazon 20 Reviews The Gramercy and Mya from Orthofeet are two gorgeous dress shoes for every occasion that have comfort features to accommodate Diabetic feet. Top Features:

The Mya is a slip on dress shoe with a biomechanically designed cushioned heel for comfort and style.



The Gramercy has a leather lace-up upper and a slight heel for sophistication.



Both shoes feature and extra depth non-binding design, and the popular Ortho Cushioning technology for comfort and support.



and the popular Ortho Cushioning technology for comfort and support. The durable rubber outsole will prevent slips and the cushioned insole provide comfort and support.



15 Slip-On Walking Shoes for Diabetes Men's Skechers Equalizer Click for

Price on

Amazon 6,465 Reviews Women's Skechers Equalizer Click for

Price on

Amazon The Skechers slip-on shoes are an easy slip on and off walking shoe with a lightweight and flexible design, ideal for diabetic feet. Top Features:

A relaxed and flexible fit with a roomy toe area.



Advanced cushioning for comfort and support and a flexible and shock absorbing outsole.



Extremely durable and breathable, ideal for walking.



The perfect fit for a wider foot and accommodative to foot conditions such as hammertoe and Bunions.



16 Fisherman's Sandal for Diabetes Men's Dr. Comfort Fisherman Click for

Price on

Amazon 84 Reviews Women's Dr. Comfort Fisherman Click for

Price on

Amazon 4 Reviews Extra roomy, comfortable and adjustable fisherman’s sandals from Dr. Comfort, that are perfect for Diabetics and individuals with other foot conditions. Top Features:

Leather



Durable leather that helps prevent skin irritation and helps keep the foot comfortable during long hours of wear.



Adjustable contact closure allows for easy adjustability and personalized comfort.



Breathable, open design to help keep feet cool and dry.



Protective toe box provides extra protection from toe stubbing



Use of top-quality material and construction helps prevent wear and tear



18 Diabetic Shoes Men's New Balance M990V4 Click for

Price on

Amazon 41 Reviews Women's New Balance W990V4 Click for

Price on

Amazon 226 Reviews One of the best models of New Balance Running and Walking Shoes for Diabetic feet and other foot conditions. Top Features:

Features an ENCAP PU ring and an EVA core in the heel for cushioning and support.



Genuine leather uppers and wide width availability for a better fit.



A thick shock absorbing and high grip rubber outsole.



Dual density Collar foam, For comfort and a blown rubber sole.



19 Wide and Extra Wide Width Diabetic Slip Ons Men's Hush Puppies GIL Click for

Price on

Amazon 1,676 Reviews Women's Hush Puppies Heaven Click for

Price on

Amazon 585 Reviews These are both superb models from Hush Puppies in comfort slip on shoes, with the Gil for men that has an adjustable strap closure. Top Features:

Comfortable and supple genuine leather uppers.



Both are available in wide width options, the men’s version comes with an adjustable strap.



Flexible design with HP02 Flex Technology in the Heaven model.



Comfortable and Removable EVA footbed.



A durable and shock absorbing outsole.



Diabetes should no longer damper your stride, for easy walking, running and standing without the worry of injury or unnoticed discomfort you can try any one of the above-listed shoes.

Index Table: Top Rated Diabetic Shoes

No. Shoe Men Women Brand Rating 1 Dr. Comfort - Comfortable Diabetes Shoe Carter Marla Dr. Comfort 84 2 Propet - Diabetic Dress Shoes Hugh Mary Jane Propet 76 3 Hey Dude - Diabetic Sneakers Wally L Stretch Avery Hey Dude 92 4 Brooks - Walking Shoe for Diabetics Addiction Walker Addiction Walker Brooks 90 5 Propet - Boot for Diabetes Ridgewalker Ridgewalker Propet 82 6 Skechers - Slip On Walking Shoe for Diabetics Go Walk 4 Go Walk 4 Skechers 90 7 Vionic - Diabetic Adjustable Sandal Kiwi Slide Kiwi Slide Vionic 92 8 Merrel - Hiking Boot for Diabetics Moab 2 Moab 2 Merrel 92 9 Dr. Comfort - Diabetic Athletic Shoe Performance-X Victory Dr. Comfort 82 10 Propet - Diabetic Walking Shoe Life Walker Life Walker Propet 86 11 Orthofeet - Diabetes Comfort Walking Shoes Ventura Serene Orthofeet 82 12 Dr. Comfort - Comfortable Outdoor Walking Boots Ranger Vigor Dr. Comfort 86 13 Orthofeet - Lightweight Walking Shoes for Diabetes Edgewater Sandy Orthofeet 86 14 Orthofeet - Diabetic Feet dress Shoes Gramercy Orthofeet 86 15 Skechers - Slip-On Walking Shoes for Diabetes Equalizer Equalizer Skechers 92 16 Dr. Comfort - Fisherman's Sandal for Diabetes Fisherman Fisherman Dr. Comfort 88 17 Cozy Ankle - Diabetic Slippers Extra Wide Extra Wide Cozy Ankle 64 18 New Balance - Diabetic Shoes M990V4 W990V4 New Balance 86 19 Hush Puppies - Wide and Extra Wide Width Diabetic Slip Ons GIL Heaven Hush Puppies 88

Please rate this article:











4.4/5

7 ratings 7 ratings X Very bad! Bad Hmmm Oke Good! 14.3% 0% 0% 0% 85.7%

Last update on 2020-07-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API