In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsThe Bottom LineChoosing a ShoeOur TestingWe Also ConsideredCommon QuestionsOur Trusted Expertise
In This ArticleView All
In This Article
View All
Our Top Picks
Reviews
The Bottom Line
Choosing a Shoe
Our Testing
We Also Considered
Common Questions
Our Trusted Expertise
Photo:EatingWell / Alexander Huang
EatingWell / Alexander Huang
Choosing the right walking shoes is crucial for everyone, but if you’re managing diabetes, the stakes are even higher. Proper footwear isn’t just about comfort; it’s about protecting your health. People with diabetes need to be extra picky about their shoes because they’re more prone to poor circulation and foot and leg problems.
“Diabetes may reduce blood flow to the feet, making it even more difficult to heal an injury or resist infection,” saysMiguel Cunha, D.P.M., board-certified foot surgeon and founder of Gotham Footcare in New York City. Basically, poor circulation compromises the flow of oxygen, nutrients and white blood cells that fight off infection. People with diabetes, therefore, have a higher risk of neuropathy, or nerve damage, which causes loss of sensation in the feet, Cunha says.
Our Top PicksBest Overall:Orthofeet Coral Stretch Knit Shoe at Amazon$100Jump to ReviewBest Budget:Skechers Women’s Go Walk 5 True Sneaker at Amazon$46Jump to ReviewBest Shock Absorption:New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13 at Amazon$165Jump to ReviewBest Walking Shoe:KURU Quantum 2.0 at Kurufootwear.comJump to ReviewMost Breathable:Allbirds Tree Dasher Relay Walking Shoes at Zappos$130Jump to ReviewBest Lightweight:Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Running Shoes at Amazon$140Jump to ReviewBest Stretchable:Kizik Roamer at Nordstrom$90Jump to Review
Best Overall:Orthofeet Coral Stretch Knit Shoe at Amazon$100Jump to ReviewBest Budget:Skechers Women’s Go Walk 5 True Sneaker at Amazon$46Jump to ReviewBest Shock Absorption:New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13 at Amazon$165Jump to ReviewBest Walking Shoe:KURU Quantum 2.0 at Kurufootwear.comJump to ReviewMost Breathable:Allbirds Tree Dasher Relay Walking Shoes at Zappos$130Jump to ReviewBest Lightweight:Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Running Shoes at Amazon$140Jump to ReviewBest Stretchable:Kizik Roamer at Nordstrom$90Jump to Review
Best Overall:Orthofeet Coral Stretch Knit Shoe at Amazon$100Jump to Review
Best Overall:Orthofeet Coral Stretch Knit Shoe at Amazon$100
Best Overall:
Best Budget:Skechers Women’s Go Walk 5 True Sneaker at Amazon$46Jump to Review
Best Budget:Skechers Women’s Go Walk 5 True Sneaker at Amazon$46
Best Budget:
Best Shock Absorption:New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13 at Amazon$165Jump to Review
Best Shock Absorption:New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13 at Amazon$165
Best Shock Absorption:
Best Walking Shoe:KURU Quantum 2.0 at Kurufootwear.comJump to Review
Best Walking Shoe:KURU Quantum 2.0 at Kurufootwear.com
Best Walking Shoe:
Most Breathable:Allbirds Tree Dasher Relay Walking Shoes at Zappos$130Jump to Review
Most Breathable:Allbirds Tree Dasher Relay Walking Shoes at Zappos$130
Most Breathable:
Best Lightweight:Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Running Shoes at Amazon$140Jump to Review
Best Lightweight:Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Running Shoes at Amazon$140
Best Lightweight:
Best Stretchable:Kizik Roamer at Nordstrom$90Jump to Review
Best Stretchable:Kizik Roamer at Nordstrom$90
Best Stretchable:
Best OverallOrthofeet Coral Stretch Knit ShoePHOTO: Amazon$100$95 at Amazon$115 at ZapposView on Orthofeet.comWhat we like:Available in various widths, they are extra cushioned and easy to slip on and off.What to know:The Coral sneaker is specifically for women, but Orthofeet’s men’s sneakers have the same diabetic-friendly features.Cunha recommends Orthofeet as a brand because of their superior construction and comfort for feet that need extra special attention—andIrene Evuleocha, D.P.M. loves the Coral sneakers, one of the most popular picks in the brand’s line.The Orthofeet Coral sneakers come with all the bells and whistles you need in a diabetic shoe. They have orthotic insoles for cushioning and proper alignment, which helps prevent injuries. Plus, “the ergonomic soles distribute pressure evenly across your feet, while the wide toe box gives your toes plenty of wiggle room to prevent blisters and calluses,” Cunha says. “They’re designed with extra depth, padded uppers and stretch materials to accommodate foot swelling and ensure a perfect fit all day.” They also have a seam-free interior to reduce friction and prevent sores. We also love the tie-free design that’s easy to slip on, so you don’t have to fiddle with tying your laces every time you put them on and take them off.Available sizes:5 to 12 |Width options:Medium, wide, extra wide |Fit:True to size |Cushion level:Superior |Materials:Stretchable knitted upper, rubber solePHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander Huang
Best OverallOrthofeet Coral Stretch Knit ShoePHOTO: Amazon$100$95 at Amazon$115 at ZapposView on Orthofeet.com
Best OverallOrthofeet Coral Stretch Knit Shoe
Best Overall
Orthofeet Coral Stretch Knit Shoe
PHOTO: Amazon
$100$95 at Amazon$115 at ZapposView on Orthofeet.com
What we like:Available in various widths, they are extra cushioned and easy to slip on and off.
What to know:The Coral sneaker is specifically for women, but Orthofeet’s men’s sneakers have the same diabetic-friendly features.
Cunha recommends Orthofeet as a brand because of their superior construction and comfort for feet that need extra special attention—andIrene Evuleocha, D.P.M. loves the Coral sneakers, one of the most popular picks in the brand’s line.
The Orthofeet Coral sneakers come with all the bells and whistles you need in a diabetic shoe. They have orthotic insoles for cushioning and proper alignment, which helps prevent injuries. Plus, “the ergonomic soles distribute pressure evenly across your feet, while the wide toe box gives your toes plenty of wiggle room to prevent blisters and calluses,” Cunha says. “They’re designed with extra depth, padded uppers and stretch materials to accommodate foot swelling and ensure a perfect fit all day.” They also have a seam-free interior to reduce friction and prevent sores. We also love the tie-free design that’s easy to slip on, so you don’t have to fiddle with tying your laces every time you put them on and take them off.
Available sizes:5 to 12 |Width options:Medium, wide, extra wide |Fit:True to size |Cushion level:Superior |Materials:Stretchable knitted upper, rubber sole
PHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander Huang
Best BudgetSkechers Women’s Go Walk 5 True SneakerPHOTO: Amazon$46$40 at AmazonView on Zappos
Best BudgetSkechers Women’s Go Walk 5 True Sneaker
Best Budget
Skechers Women’s Go Walk 5 True Sneaker
$46$40 at AmazonView on Zappos
What we like:There are many different styles to choose from, including slip-on and laced, as well as a line with extra arch support.
What to know:Price, color and width depend on the style selected.
These comfy walking shoes come in various colors and styles, from slip-on to laced to loafer-like pairs, and they’re all reasonably priced. The Skechers Go Walk line of shoes provides room for sensitive feet and allows for an easy heel-to-toe gait that can help with balance, saysDaniel Geller, D.P.M., a foot and ankle surgeon in Los Angeles.
Available sizes:Men 7 to 16, women 5 to 13 |Width options:Medium and wide |Fit:True to size |Cushion level:Varies depending on version/style |Materials:Varies depending on version/style
PHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander Huang
Best Shock AbsorptionNew Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13PHOTO: Amazon$165$155 at Amazon$165 at Zappos$165$99 at NordstromWhat we like:Available in three widths, they offer extra cushioning and comfort and come in many trendy colors.What to know:While these come in three different width options, not all colorways are available in all widths.Both Cunha and Geller recommend New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 because it boasts excellent shock absorption to help protect sensitive feet. “Diabetics need a shoe with good shock absorption because their feet are more susceptible to injuries due to neuropathy and poor circulation,” Cunha says. Shock absorption helps protect and cushion the feet, reducing the impact and stress on the bones and joints, which can lead to ulcers and pressure sores.The Fresh Foam 1080 is an excellent choice for people with diabetes because they have a cushioned midsole and a solid rubber outsole, which helps maintain stability—a feature crucial for people with diabetes who may have balance issues or neuropathy, Cunha says. The rocker bottom makes it feel like you’re walking on a cloud, and the breathable mesh upper provides a structured and supportive feel that helps accommodate foot swelling.Just note that the fit of these sneakers seems to vary depending on which version of the Fresh Foam 1080 you get (like the newer v13 versus the previous v12)—some seem tighter and narrower or bigger in the heel area.Available sizes:Men’s 7 to 16, women’s 5 to 13 |Width options: Standard, wide, extra wide |Fit:True to size |Cushion level:Extra soft |Materials:Mesh upper and rubber outsolePHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander Huang
Best Shock AbsorptionNew Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13PHOTO: Amazon$165$155 at Amazon$165 at Zappos$165$99 at Nordstrom
Best Shock AbsorptionNew Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13
Best Shock Absorption
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13
$165$155 at Amazon$165 at Zappos$165$99 at Nordstrom
What we like:Available in three widths, they offer extra cushioning and comfort and come in many trendy colors.
What to know:While these come in three different width options, not all colorways are available in all widths.
Both Cunha and Geller recommend New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 because it boasts excellent shock absorption to help protect sensitive feet. “Diabetics need a shoe with good shock absorption because their feet are more susceptible to injuries due to neuropathy and poor circulation,” Cunha says. Shock absorption helps protect and cushion the feet, reducing the impact and stress on the bones and joints, which can lead to ulcers and pressure sores.The Fresh Foam 1080 is an excellent choice for people with diabetes because they have a cushioned midsole and a solid rubber outsole, which helps maintain stability—a feature crucial for people with diabetes who may have balance issues or neuropathy, Cunha says. The rocker bottom makes it feel like you’re walking on a cloud, and the breathable mesh upper provides a structured and supportive feel that helps accommodate foot swelling.
Just note that the fit of these sneakers seems to vary depending on which version of the Fresh Foam 1080 you get (like the newer v13 versus the previous v12)—some seem tighter and narrower or bigger in the heel area.
Available sizes:Men’s 7 to 16, women’s 5 to 13 |Width options: Standard, wide, extra wide |Fit:True to size |Cushion level:Extra soft |Materials:Mesh upper and rubber outsole
Best Walking ShoeKURU Quantum 2.0PHOTO: KURUView on Kurufootwear.comWhat we like:They have plenty of cushion and support to help prevent heel and foot pain.What to know:Some people note that this shoe runs a bit small, so you may need to order a half size up, especially if you have wide feet.Cunha says the KURU Quantum 2.0 shoes are ideal for people with diabetes because they offer excellent cushioning and support without restricting the natural movement of the foot.Their wide toe box helps prevent the toes from crowding, which can lead to blisters, especially when you’re on your feet all day. Plus, the EVA foam absorbs shock and reduces impact on joints and bones, while the sole stabilizes the ankle and heel, “which is crucial for diabetics who may have balance issues or neuropathy,” Cunha says. We also love that they have shock-absorbing insoles that mold to your arch, making walking miles easier on the feet.Available sizes:Women’s 5 to 12, men’s 7 to 14 |Width options: Medium and wide |Fit:Runs small |Cushion level:Maximum |Materials:Mesh and synthetic upper, rubber outsolePHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander Huang
Best Walking ShoeKURU Quantum 2.0PHOTO: KURUView on Kurufootwear.com
Best Walking ShoeKURU Quantum 2.0
Best Walking Shoe
KURU Quantum 2.0
PHOTO: KURU
View on Kurufootwear.com
What we like:They have plenty of cushion and support to help prevent heel and foot pain.
What to know:Some people note that this shoe runs a bit small, so you may need to order a half size up, especially if you have wide feet.
Cunha says the KURU Quantum 2.0 shoes are ideal for people with diabetes because they offer excellent cushioning and support without restricting the natural movement of the foot.
Their wide toe box helps prevent the toes from crowding, which can lead to blisters, especially when you’re on your feet all day. Plus, the EVA foam absorbs shock and reduces impact on joints and bones, while the sole stabilizes the ankle and heel, “which is crucial for diabetics who may have balance issues or neuropathy,” Cunha says. We also love that they have shock-absorbing insoles that mold to your arch, making walking miles easier on the feet.
Available sizes:Women’s 5 to 12, men’s 7 to 14 |Width options: Medium and wide |Fit:Runs small |Cushion level:Maximum |Materials:Mesh and synthetic upper, rubber outsole
Most BreathableAllbirds Tree Dasher Relay Walking ShoesPHOTO: Allbird$130 at Zappos$135 at Nordstrom$130 at Allbirds.comWhat we like:They offer a slip-on, sock-like fit that molds to your foot.What to know:They don’t come in different widths, and people with wide feet might find these to be a bit narrow.The Allbirds Tree Dasher Relay’s slip-on design and light, breathable material make it feel like you’re barely wearing shoes. These sneakers are made with ultra-breathable yarn, which makes for maximum ventilation, a unique feature for a closed shoe, Cunha says. The upper is incredibly soft, flexible and lightweight, which allows your foot to move naturally.“Breathability is essential for diabetic shoes because it keeps the feet dry and cool, enhancing overall comfort and lowering the risk of infections and sores,” Cunha says. “Good ventilation prevents excessive moisture buildup, which can lead to skin infections and irritation—which is especially important for diabetics, who may have reduced sensation and slower wound healing.” Whether you’re stepping out to explore a new city or clear your head on awalking meditation, these shoes will feel light, airy and barely there.Available sizes:Women’s 5 to 11, men’s 8 to 14 |Width options: Standard |Fit:True to size |Cushion level:Medium |Materials:Yarn upper and rubber outsolePHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander Huang
Most BreathableAllbirds Tree Dasher Relay Walking ShoesPHOTO: Allbird$130 at Zappos$135 at Nordstrom$130 at Allbirds.com
Most BreathableAllbirds Tree Dasher Relay Walking Shoes
Most Breathable
Allbirds Tree Dasher Relay Walking Shoes
PHOTO: Allbird
$130 at Zappos$135 at Nordstrom$130 at Allbirds.com
What we like:They offer a slip-on, sock-like fit that molds to your foot.
What to know:They don’t come in different widths, and people with wide feet might find these to be a bit narrow.
The Allbirds Tree Dasher Relay’s slip-on design and light, breathable material make it feel like you’re barely wearing shoes. These sneakers are made with ultra-breathable yarn, which makes for maximum ventilation, a unique feature for a closed shoe, Cunha says. The upper is incredibly soft, flexible and lightweight, which allows your foot to move naturally.
“Breathability is essential for diabetic shoes because it keeps the feet dry and cool, enhancing overall comfort and lowering the risk of infections and sores,” Cunha says. “Good ventilation prevents excessive moisture buildup, which can lead to skin infections and irritation—which is especially important for diabetics, who may have reduced sensation and slower wound healing.” Whether you’re stepping out to explore a new city or clear your head on awalking meditation, these shoes will feel light, airy and barely there.
Available sizes:Women’s 5 to 11, men’s 8 to 14 |Width options: Standard |Fit:True to size |Cushion level:Medium |Materials:Yarn upper and rubber outsole
Best LightweightBrooks Women’s Ghost 16 Running ShoesPHOTO: Brooks Running$140 at Amazon$140 at Zappos$140 at Nordstrom
Best LightweightBrooks Women’s Ghost 16 Running Shoes
Best Lightweight
Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Running Shoes
PHOTO: Brooks Running
$140 at Amazon$140 at Zappos$140 at Nordstrom
What we like:They have excellent arch support and shock absorption and can help with joint alignment.
What to know:While these come in four different width options, not all colorways are available in all widths.
The Ghost 16 is cushiony-soft and lightweight, coming in at just 8.5 ounces, yet provides stability and shock absorption. “Lighter shoes are beneficial for diabetics because they reduce fatigue and strain on the feet and joints while enhancing balance, stability, and mobility—and this helps lower the risk of falls and foot injuries, which is especially crucial for diabetics with balance issues,” Cunha says.
“They have a responsive midsole design that allows you to propel forward for a smooth balanced ride when walking long distances,” Cunha says.
We love that the Ghost 16 has the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, which means they’re beneficial to foot health (e.g., it allows normal foot function and promotes quality foot health). The Ghost 16 is also PDAC A5500 Diabetic certified, which means you may be able to receive a healthcare reimbursement from Medicare when you purchase this shoe.
Available sizes:Women’s 5 to 13, men’s 7 to 15 |Width options:Narrow, medium, wide, extra wide |Fit:True to size |Cushion level:Medium |Materials:Engineered air mesh, rubber sole
Best StretchableKizik RoamerPHOTO: Kizik$90 at NordstromView on Kizik.comView on Lyst.comWhat we like:They’re cushioned and comfortable enough for all-day wear, and they have a roomy fit.What to know:They run a bit large, so if you have a narrow foot or don’t like a roomy shoe, consider ordering a half size down.If you’re looking for a flexible shoe, Cunha recommends theKizik Roamer, which features a stretchable knit upper that flexes with each movement. “Comfortable enough for all-day wear, these shoes are an excellent choice for diabetics looking for both practicality and comfort,” he says. Plus, the Roamers have an easy slip-on design.Stretchable shoes are essential for people with diabetes because they accommodate different foot shapes and swelling that may occur throughout the day, especially if you’re on your feet often. Cunha says the Kizik Roamers run on the larger side, so the extra room can help reduce pressure and friction that may lead to blisters, calluses or ulcers. And that’s crucial for maintaining foot health and preventing injuries. These super comfortable sneakers also get the green light from people with diabetes who may experience gait issues and nerve damage.Available sizes:Women’s 6 to 13, men’s 4.5 to 15 |Width options: Standard |Fit:Runs large |Cushion level:High |Materials:Recycled-textile upper, rubber solePHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander Huang
Best StretchableKizik RoamerPHOTO: Kizik$90 at NordstromView on Kizik.comView on Lyst.com
Best StretchableKizik Roamer
Best Stretchable
Kizik Roamer
PHOTO: Kizik
$90 at NordstromView on Kizik.comView on Lyst.com
What we like:They’re cushioned and comfortable enough for all-day wear, and they have a roomy fit.
What to know:They run a bit large, so if you have a narrow foot or don’t like a roomy shoe, consider ordering a half size down.
If you’re looking for a flexible shoe, Cunha recommends theKizik Roamer, which features a stretchable knit upper that flexes with each movement. “Comfortable enough for all-day wear, these shoes are an excellent choice for diabetics looking for both practicality and comfort,” he says. Plus, the Roamers have an easy slip-on design.
Stretchable shoes are essential for people with diabetes because they accommodate different foot shapes and swelling that may occur throughout the day, especially if you’re on your feet often. Cunha says the Kizik Roamers run on the larger side, so the extra room can help reduce pressure and friction that may lead to blisters, calluses or ulcers. And that’s crucial for maintaining foot health and preventing injuries. These super comfortable sneakers also get the green light from people with diabetes who may experience gait issues and nerve damage.
Available sizes:Women’s 6 to 13, men’s 4.5 to 15 |Width options: Standard |Fit:Runs large |Cushion level:High |Materials:Recycled-textile upper, rubber sole
PHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander HuangPHOTO: EatingWell / Alexander Huang
The Bottom Line: The Best Shoes for Diabetes
TheOrthofeet Coral Sneakers(view at Amazon) won our top spot because they’re doctor-recommended, come in various widths, are extra cushioned and are easy to slip on and off. We also likeNew Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v13(view at Amazon) because they’re available in three widths and offer superior cushioning, comfort and shock absorption.
Choosing a Shoe for Diabetes
Fit and comfort
If you have diabetes, you’ll want a shoe with a roomy fit. Shoes with wide and deep toe boxes are good choices for people with diabetes because they can help prevent friction and rubbing, says Geller. Watch out for how your foot is positioned in a shoe when trying on pairs, as you don’t want misshapen hammertoes or bunions to cause excess friction. It may be worth visiting a shop such asThe Good Feet Storeto make sure the shoe isn’t rubbing your foot in an uncomfortable way that may cause a blister or ulcer, says Mehta.
Stability and arch support
Stability in a shoe means it offers proper support, protection, alignment and motion of the foot, Cunha says. Looking for a shoe with good stability can help prevent pressure points and faulty mechanics that could cause pain or injury. Shoes with good stability will also have a soft arch support system for maximum comfort and pain relief. “Arch support helps prevent shifting of bones and soft tissues and offset many of the orthopedic problems we see, as well as provide stability and balance,” says Geller.
Responsiveness and impact absorption
Responsiveness in a shoe refers to how well it absorbs impact, adapts to the foot’s movements, and returns energy with each step, Cunha says. More responsiveness means better cushioning, comfort and performance. These features are crucial for people with diabetes, who may have reduced sensation in their feet and are at higher risk of developing ulcers or infections.
Our Testing for the Best Shoes for Diabetes
We consulted with foot doctors on what to look for in the best shoes for diabetes and personally researched countless popular pairs. We interviewed four experts for this story, all board-certified podiatrists or orthopedic surgeons. With their expertise, we put together this list of the best walking shoes for diabetes.
Kane Revive Active Recovery Shoe($80 at Nordstrom):These machine-washable shoes are well-cushioned and perforated to allow your foot to breathe and prevent moisture buildup. But they only come in standard widths and are unsuitable for cold or rainy weather.
New Balance FuelCell 990 V6($200 at Amazon):This classic NB shoe comes in different widths so that you can choose wide or extra-wide for a roomier fit. It offers good stability and is ideal for everyday wear, but it’s pricier than many similarly constructed shoes.
Why do people with diabetes need special shoes?
People with diabetes need to be extra cautious with their feet, including choosing the right shoes.
Can I wear sandals if I have diabetes?
Although there are many sandals marketed as diabetic-friendly, Cunha doesn’t recommend wearing sandals if you have diabetes, especially if you also have neuropathy.
Unlike sandals, “closed shoes offer superior support and protection from environmental hazards like gravel and stones that can get into sandals and cause cuts and wounds that may become infected,” Cunha says.
But if you have diabetes and insist on wearing sandals, Cunha recommends looking for ones that have comfortable adjustable straps as well as cushioned insoles, arch support, smooth seams to avoid irritation that may lead to blisters and sores, and good traction to help prevent falls.
Just avoid shoes with flat soles, flip-flops and high heels because they don’t allow for even distribution of foot pressure, says Mehta.
What else should people with diabetes wear on their feet that will help?
Your sock choice is also important. Look for socks that have extra cushioning, come up higher than the ankle, and are made from moisture-wicking fibers, says Mehta. It’s also crucial to choose socks without elastic tops so that the elastic doesn’t restrict leg circulation. Don’t go barefoot around the house, either. (Trysupportive house shoesinstead.)
How do you know when to replace your shoes?
Worn-out shoes can result in more than just achy feet—they can also leave you susceptible to injury and impact your knees, hips, and back. Generally, you’ll want to replace your shoes every 300 to 500 miles (this is especially true forrunning shoes).
But apart from mileage, how else will you know? Besides visible signs of wear and tear on the outsole or midsole, listen to your body: If your knees or feet start to ache, it’s probably time for a new pair.
For this article, our authors interviewed four doctors and, with their expertise and knowledge, determined the best shoes for people with diabetes. Those experts were:
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