Last Updated on May, 2024
Imagine wearing regular sneakers when you have diabetics — the pain, the discomfort, and everything unpleasant.
So, medical professionals and shoe brands identified this need long ago. That’s why there are so many sneakers made specifically for diabetic feet.
But how can you know which is better?
Quick Navigation
- Why Trust Me?
- Top 7 Best Sneakers for Diabetics
- 1. Orthofeet Tacoma (For Men)
- 2. Orthofeet Francis No-Tie (For Women)
- 3. Kuru Atom
- 4. Propet Stability Walker
- 5. New Balance 990v5
- 6. Skechers Go Walk
- 7. SAS Tour
- How to Choose Sneakers for Diabetics?
- Benefits of Sneakers Made Specifically for Diabetics
- Are Sneakers Suitable for Neuropathy Pain?
- In Conclusion
- FAQs
- Are There Special Sneakers for Diabetic Feet?
- What is the Best Recommended Sneaker Brand for Diabetics?
- What Socks Should I Wear With Sneakers for Diabetics?
- Was this article helpful?
Why Trust Me?
I teamed up with some of the best medical professionals to test and rank sneakers for people with diabetes. After enough interviews and testing, we managed to bring them down to the top 7.
Here are the top 7 best sneakers for diabetic feet.
Top 7 Best Sneakers for Diabetics
1. Orthofeet Tacoma (For Men)
As you may already know, Orthofeet is the go-to brand for people with diabetes.
Their Tacoma is the best sneakers for men’s diabetic feet.
The anatomical design of the shoe is probably the foundation of its superiority. The sneakers are designed with a wide toe box, which helps to prevent the toes from being compressed or squeezed together.
This design also helps to reduce the risk of developing blisters, calluses, or ulcers on the feet. After all, I shouldn’t have to tell you how seldom diabetic blisters heal.
The shoe’s seamless interior also reduces the risk of irritation or pressure points that can cause discomfort or pain.
Another important feature of the Tacoma sneakers is the superior cushioning and arch support provided by the Ortho-Cushion® system.
The system is designed to reduce stress on the foot, knee, and lower back. That helps you to reduce foot pain, fatigue, and discomfort. The insole is also removable, which allows for customization and the use of orthotic inserts.
The Tacoma sneakers also feature a non-binding, padded tongue and collar, which provides additional comfort and support.
The shoes are also made with soft, breathable materials, which help to keep the feet cool, dry, and comfortable. The shoes also have a non-slip outsole, which provides excellent traction and stability.
Its antimicrobial insoles are considered legendary on the market, given how they protect your feet from bacterial risks.
Additionally, the Tacoma sneakers have been approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) for their quality, comfort, and support. The shoes come in 13 sizes and 3 widths, which ensures a proper fit for each individual.
The harmony of these features effortlessly makes the Orthofeet Tacoma the best sneakers for diabetic feet.
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2. Orthofeet Francis No-Tie (For Women)
Orthofeet’s Tacoma is the best sneakers for men. For women, it’s the Francis No-Tie shoe. Let’s see why it is so.
The Orthofeet Francis No-Tie sneakers are a great choice for women with diabetes who need comfortable and supportive footwear.
These sneakers are designed with several features that help support and protect diabetic feet.
Firstly, the shoes offer an adjustable fit, thanks to their unique no-tie lacing system (Bungee lace closure) that allows for easy on and off.
This feature is essential for women with diabetes who may have difficulty bending over or tying their shoelaces due to mobility issues or foot pain.
But don’t worry; they fit perfectly safely, so you can even jog.
In addition, the Orthofeet Francis No-Tie sneakers provide extra depth. That accommodates custom orthotics and other inserts to help alleviate foot pain and reduce the risk of foot ulcers.
The cushioned sole also provides excellent shock absorption, reducing the pressure on the feet and making walking more comfortable, especially for women’s extra sensitive feet.
Furthermore, the sneakers feature a wide toe box, which helps reduce the risk of toe injuries and improves overall comfort. You should know that toes can rub on each other and cause incurable blisters.
Another important feature of these sneakers is their seamless interior, which helps prevent irritation and rubbing on sensitive feet.
The interior lining is also breathable, which helps reduce moisture and the risk of bacterial and fungal infections.
The sneakers are available in 15 sizes and 3 widths, so you don’t have to worry about fitting the shoe as well. The Francis No-Tie shoes are impressive, even with a minimalistic design.
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3. Kuru Atom
The Kuru Atom Wide sneakers are designed with the needs of people with diabetes in mind.
The wide toe box is comfortable and helps prevent foot injuries, including blisters, calluses, and other foot ailments that can arise from poorly-fitted shoes.
The arch support is also vital for those with diabetes, as it helps maintain the foot’s natural shape and prevent undue pressure that can lead to nerve damage, reduced circulation, and foot ulcers.
The shock-absorbing sole is another standout feature of the Kuru Atom Wide sneakers.
Diabetic individuals often experience foot pain and discomfort, and the shock-absorbing sole helps to alleviate this by reducing the impact of walking on the feet.
This feature is also crucial for those with neuropathy or circulation problems, as it helps to prevent injuries and further nerve damage.
Moreover, the Kuru Atom Wide sneakers are made with high-quality materials, ensuring they are durable and long-lasting.
The breathable upper is made of mesh, which is lightweight and allows for proper ventilation. That directly prevents moisture buildup and reduces the risk of infections.
The shoes also have a slip-resistant outsole that provides excellent traction and stability, reducing the risk of slips and falls.
Kuru Atom Wide sneakers have a stylish design that can easily match any outfit, making them a versatile choice for everyday wear.
They are available in ten colors and fifteen sizes, ensuring everyone can find a pair that suits their personal style. You also receive free shipping, exchanges, and even free returns.
All these reasons justify why Kuro Atom definitely makes amazing sneakers for people with diabetes.
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4. Propet Stability Walker
Propet’s Stability Walker is among women’s most sought diabetic sneakers.
So many reasons justify that popularity.
For starters, a specially designed insole made from high-quality materials provides a comfortable fit and supports the foot in all the right places. That’s an impressive start, to begin with.
The Propet Stability Walker sneakers also feature a lightweight, flexible outsole designed to provide traction and stability while walking.
This is important for people with diabetes, as they may be more prone to slips and falls due to poor balance or peripheral neuropathy.
You’d love to hear that the shoe has a lace-up closure with “D” rings. This guarantees a more adjustable and safe fit.
The outsole is also designed to absorb shock, which can help reduce the risk of foot injuries and other complications.
In addition, Propet Stability Walker sneakers also feature a soft and breathable upper and padded tongue and collar. This is important for people with diabetes, as it can help reduce the risk of foot ulcers and other skin irritations.
The upper is made from a combination of leather and mesh, which provides durability and ventilation. The breathability of the materials allows better sweat management preventing odor and bacterial complications.
This allows the wearer to adjust the shoe’s fit to their specific needs, which is important for people with diabetes who may have foot swelling or other issues that require a custom fit.
The cherry on top is the fact that this is a Medicare/HCPCS code = A5500 diabetic shoe.
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5. New Balance 990v5
The New Balance 990v5 sneakers are an excellent choice for people with diabetes.
For your luck, it comes in men’s and women’s shoes; I know some of you like gender-specific wear.
Its ENCAP® PU ring with EVA core wraps the lateral mid-foot through the heel and around the medial mid-foot for enhanced stability.
The sneakers are designed to distribute the weight of the foot evenly. That helps to reduce pressure points and prevent foot injuries.
Additionally, the cushioning also helps to reduce shock and impact when walking.
That’s why it makes walking longer distances easier for those with diabetes without experiencing discomfort.
The sneakers also have excellent stability features. Stability is essential for people with diabetes, as it helps to prevent falls and injuries.
The 990v5 sneakers have a solid base that offers excellent stability. In addition, the materials used in the construction of the sneakers help to keep the feet securely in place, reducing the risk of slips or falls.
The bottom line is that these sneakers keep you safe.
Safety further increases thanks to the lace-up closure and the reliable blown rubber sole.
These sneakers come in various widths, from narrow to extra-wide, to accommodate various foot sizes and shapes. A properly fitting shoe is essential for people with diabetes to prevent blisters, calluses, and other foot injuries.
What more can you ask for?
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6. Skechers Go Walk
You might already know that Skechers is among the most sought brands in the diabetic community. Their Performance sneakers could be your diabetic feet’s safe haven.
The shoe comes in gray and navy colors across four sizes and two width options.
One of the main features of these sneakers is their cushioned soles. This helps to reduce the pressure on the feet. You know it is particularly important for people with diabetes who may have reduced blood flow to the feet.
The cushioning also helps absorb shock when walking, reducing the risk of a foot injury. Who doesn’t like extra softness on their diabetic feet?
Another important feature of the Skechers Go Walk sneakers is their supportive arches. These help to distribute weight evenly across the foot, reducing the risk of pressure points that can lead to ulcers and other foot problems.
The seamless interior of these sneakers is also a great benefit for people with diabetes. This feature reduces the risk of rubbing and chafing. If not, there can be higher chances of blisters and other foot injuries.
The seamless design also helps to reduce the risk of infection, which is a concern for people with diabetes who may have reduced immunity.
The Skechers Go Walk sneakers for diabetics are also designed with slip-resistant soles. It is very important for individuals with this condition who may have reduced sensation in their feet. This feature helps to reduce the risk of slips and falls, which can lead to serious injury.
In conclusion, you can totally rely on the Skechers Performance shoe.
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7. SAS Tour
SAS might not be as high performing as Orthofeet, but the brand’s Tour shoes are incredibly impressive.
The shoe comes in multiple sizes and five-width options. This all-white shoe is quite suitable for diabetic feet due to many reasons.
Some trademark features make the shoe stand out; the #1 is the removable SAS CoolStep™ footbed. It features an anti-friction lining, which is how you get a cool surface underfoot.
The same branded footbed enables moisture-wicking abilities as well. By now, you know how ideal moisture-wicking ability helps you keep your feet cool and dry.
SAS Tripad® cushions are designed to comfort the three main pressure points: the outside ball, the inside ball, and the heel. That’s why you can wear this amazing shoe all day long effortlessly.
SAS Tour shoes feature the SteadyTrack™ midsole as well. This midsole is quite lightweight, shock-absorbing, and flexible. For diabetic feet, there is no such thing as too much lateral stability, and you’ll get more than enough.
Another key feature is the SAS Archfit® heel stabilizer that provides firm yet gentle support on all surface types. After all, you shouldn’t have to feel different just because you have diabetic feet.
You’d be happy to hear that the SAS Tour is also a Medicare/HCPCS code = A5500 diabetic shoe.
The shoe comes in multiple sizes, five width options, but one color; white.
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How to Choose Sneakers for Diabetics?
Since there are so many sneakers on the market, the guide below should help you find the best ones. After all, it’s what we use to filter our choices.
- Choose sneakers with a wide and deep toe box to prevent foot ulcers and allow toes to move comfortably. The outcome is to help prevent pressure points on the toes and forefoot, which can lead to foot injuries.
- Pick sneakers made of breathable materials like mesh or leather to avoid sweating and infections. This will keep your feet dry and healthy.
- Select sneakers with a cushioned sole to provide comfort and support for sensitive feet. You can expect to reduce pressure on the feet and prevent foot injuries.
- Look for sneakers with smooth interiors and minimal stitching to prevent blisters and injuries. This will also reduce the risk of friction and irritation on the feet.
- Choose sneakers with a firm heel counter to reduce the risk of falls and injuries. A firm heel counter will help to stabilize your foot and provide additional support.
- Ensure the sneakers fit properly to avoid blisters, calluses, and other foot problems. Proper fit is essential for preventing foot injuries and ensuring maximum comfort.
- Consider using orthotic inserts in your sneakers if you have specific foot problems like flat feet or high arches to provide additional support and comfort. Orthotic inserts can also help to reduce pressure on the feet and prevent foot injuries.
- Choose sneakers with a low heel-to-toe drop to reduce pressure on the feet. This can also help to improve your gait and reduce the risk of foot injuries.
- Look for sneakers with adjustable closures for a customized and secure fit. This will also help prevent your feet from sliding inside the shoes.
- Choose sneakers with adequate arch support to reduce foot pressure and provide additional stability. This can help to prevent foot injuries and reduce the risk of falls.
Benefits of Sneakers Made Specifically for Diabetics
- Sneakers designed specifically for diabetes are made to provide cushion to your feet so much better compared to regular sneakers.
- They have better shock absorption that reduces pressure on the feet, which in turn reduces foot pain.
- The soft cushioned interior of these diabetes sneakers can drastically reduce the risk of blisters and calluses.
- These shoes enhance blood circulation compared to regular shoes, and that reduces the risk of complications such as neuropathy.
- Diabetes sneakers are recognized for their non-slip soles and reinforced heels that improve balance and stability.
- Adjustable straps and laces of diabetes shoes are diabetic-feet-friendly compared to regular sneakers, allowing a better fit.
- Fungal and bacterial infections will be minimized due to the special breathable materials of sneakers made specifically for diabetes, unlike regular sneakers.
- If you use orthotic insoles or inserts, you can include them easier in diabetic sneakers compared to regular sneakers.
- These sneakers are made from medically superior quality materials, and that’s why their lifespan is much longer than regular sneakers.
- Wearing diabetic sneakers directly accelerates the effectiveness of any other additional treatments you may be following.
- The combination of all these features directly improves your quality of life.
Are Sneakers Suitable for Neuropathy Pain?
The short answer is YES; they are definitely suitable for neuropathy pain.
Sneakers offer a wider toe box than many other types of shoes, which reduces pressure on the toes and minimizes discomfort. They also have shock-absorbing soles, cushioned insoles, and breathable materials that help to reduce foot pain.
When selecting sneakers for neuropathy pain, choosing shoes that provide ample cushioning and support with a comfortable fit is important.
Shoes with a removable insole can be helpful, as they allow for the insertion of custom orthotics or additional padding as needed.
We share our top neuropathy shoe picks in this guide.
In Conclusion
Diabetes complicates your life in ways you sometimes can’t even assume. But you don’t have to lose the happiness of your life because of diabetes.
Not when you can find sneakers made explicitly for battling diabetes.
After evaluating enough, it is pretty clear how the shoes from Orthofeet come out on top. It’s not just the superiority of the features, but also how they make you feel normal and least painful.
I hope this reading helped you make the decision. If you did, your pain would not be there for too long!
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