Are you ready to step into a world of comfort and protection? Discover the essential guide to finding the Top Shoes for Diabetics, where every step is designed to support your health and wellbeing. From cushioned soles to proper fitting, we'll explore the key features to look for in diabetic footwear. Say goodbye to uncomfortable blisters and hello to the perfect pair that keeps you on the move. So lace up, because we're about to take you on a journey to healthier feet. Let's dive in!
Best Overall: New Balance Made in USA 990 V5 Sneaker
Image Credit: New Balance The New Balance Made in USA 990 V5 Sneaker is the top choice for overall performance. These sneakers are specifically designed to provide optimal protection and support for the ankle area, which can be particularly problematic for individuals with diabetes. They feature a dual-density collar foam and a lightweight foam midsole that offers all-day support, regardless of activity level.
Furthermore, these sneakers are available in a range of sizes, including wide and extra wide, to accommodate those who require additional room. Dr. Suzanne Levine, a New York-based aesthetic podiatrist and board-certified podiatric foot surgeon, highly recommends this shoe for its secure and supportive fit, as well as its ability to accommodate various foot shapes while ensuring the protection of the foot's arch.
Wear Shoes with Cushioned Soles
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When choosing shoes for diabetes patients, it is essential to opt for those with ultra-soft cushioned soles that provide optimal comfort and protection for the feet. These shoes should also offer good shock absorption to safeguard against injuries while walking on hard surfaces, ensuring that the feet are not strained or harmed in any way.
It is equally important for the soles and interior of the shoes to be free of any sharp seams that could cause rubbing or cutting of the feet. Look for diabetes shoes that feature seam-free leather lining to prevent any discomfort or injury caused by friction.
Stay Away from Blades or Corn Plasters
The health and well-being of the skin is a top priority for individuals with diabetes. It is strongly advised to avoid using blades or corn plasters, as they can damage the skin and lead to further complications. Pumice stones are a safer alternative but should be used with caution. If you are experiencing difficulties in healing corns or other skin issues, it is always recommended to consult a certified podiatrist for professional assistance.
Moisturize Daily
One of the most effective ways to keep your feet moisturized is to use an emollient cream specifically designed for this purpose. However, it is important to consult with your podiatrist to determine which cream is best suited for your specific skin type and needs. After moisturizing, it is crucial to clean the skin between your toes so that no cream or talcum powder accumulates, as this can potentially cause dermatologic problems. Do not overlook this step in your daily foot care routine.
Wear Properly Fitting Shoes
Wearing shoes that fit properly is of utmost importance for maintaining overall foot health, especially for individuals with diabetes. The right shoes provide support, protection, and ensure that the feet are properly aligned. When shopping for shoes for diabetic feet, it is crucial to consider all the key factors discussed earlier. Sole Bliss offers a wide range of diabetic shoes and heels that meet these criteria. Their Luna flat ballet pumps and Lizzie flats are comfortable options, while their Nina Mary Jane-style shoes provide a stylish choice with a front strap and a small heel.
Be Careful When Cutting Your Nails
Cutting your nails may pose challenges if you have diabetes. It is important to exercise caution to avoid accidentally piercing the skin, which can lead to further injuries. This is especially crucial if you have lost sensation in your feet, as you may not even realize when you have harmed your skin. When cutting your toenails, it is recommended to trim them in a straight line, avoiding cutting them too short or down the sides. Nail clippers should be used instead of scissors, and an emery board can be used to smooth any sharp edges. Gently clean your toenails with a nail brush, avoiding the use of sharp points from scissors for cleaning, as this can be unsafe.
Maintaining daily hygiene is a simple yet vital task that protects your toenails and feet from infections. Washing your feet with simple soap and warm water is sufficient, but always ensure that the water is not too hot to avoid scalding your feet. Be mindful not to soak your feet for an extended period, as this can lead to excess moisture and potentially cause delicate skin and injuries if left unattended. If you have lost sensation in your feet or are concerned about issues such as ingrown toenails, consider visiting a footcare specialist who can provide professional guidance and even treat yourself to a pedicure. There is no need to feel embarrassed about seeking appropriate care and pampering for your feet.
Eat Healthy and Exercise Regularly
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential for individuals living with diabetes. Incorporating a diet rich in vegetables, fiber, and fish while reducing the consumption of processed food, sugar, alcohol, and salty food is highly recommended. The advice of a certified dietitian or nutritionist can be invaluable in tailoring a dietary plan that meets your specific needs. A healthy, balanced diet is crucial in managing diabetes effectively.
Regular physical activity is also vital for managing diabetes and reducing the risk of complications, including those affecting the feet. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends a minimum of 150 minutes of aerobic exercise per week for individuals living with diabetes. This can include activities such as swimming, running, walking, or cycling.
Monitor Cholesterol, Blood Sugar, and Blood Pressure Levels
Blood Pressure
Maintaining healthy blood pressure levels is crucial for individuals with diabetes. High blood pressure puts additional strain on blood vessels, impeding the flow of oxygen-rich blood to vital organs. This can lead to circulation issues and complications in various areas, including the eyes, kidneys, and feet. Ideally, the resting blood pressure level for individuals with diabetes should be below 130/80mmHg.
Cholesterol Levels
Monitoring cholesterol levels is essential for individuals with diabetes. Diabetics tend to have lower levels of good cholesterol (HDL-C) and higher levels of bad cholesterol (LDL-C). This imbalance can lead to the narrowing or blockage of arteries, increasing the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other heart diseases. Maintaining a heart-healthy diet and engaging in regular physical activity can help manage cholesterol levels and promote good blood circulation.
Blood Sugar Levels
Keeping blood sugar levels within the target range is crucial for preventing complications in the feet and overall well-being. However, maintaining optimal blood sugar levels may be challenging. It is important to educate yourself on proper nutrition and engage in regular physical activity to effectively manage blood sugar levels. Regular monitoring and consultation with your healthcare provider is essential for keeping blood sugar levels in check. The average blood sugar level, measured by HbA1c, should ideally be 48 mmol/L. If you have concerns about your blood sugar control or the effectiveness of your medication, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare team for support and guidance.
Stop Smoking
Smoking poses significant risks for individuals with diabetes. The tar and toxins from cigarettes can enter the bloodstream, causing thickening of the blood and increased blood pressure and heart rate. This puts added strain on the heart and impairs blood circulation, particularly to areas like the feet. By quitting smoking, you can significantly reduce the risk of complications, including possible amputation. While quitting smoking is challenging, with the right guidance and support from your healthcare team, it is possible to achieve. Invest in your health and make the decision to quit smoking for the well-being of your feet and overall health.
Avoid Flip Flops
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It is crucial to avoid wearing flip-flops or other unsupportive sandals if you have diabetes. These types of shoes leave your feet vulnerable to cuts and injuries. Additionally, they make it easier for debris such as gravel to enter your shoes, further increasing the risk of damage to your feet. Instead, opt for supportive closed-toe shoes specifically designed to provide comfort and protection for diabetic feet. Sole Bliss offers a range of diabetic shoes with wide fits and seam-free leather linings to ensure optimal comfort and protection.
Wear Shoes with Extra Depth
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When selecting shoes for individuals with diabetes, it is important to choose options with extra depth. This additional space allows your feet to have ample room to breathe and prevents any rubbing against the roof of the shoe. Diabetic feet often experience swelling, and the extra depth offered by these shoes can be highly beneficial. If your doctor has prescribed a custom insole or orthotic, choosing shoes with extra depth will serve as an excellent fit.
Wear Shoes that are Lace-Up or Adjustable
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Many diabetic shoes feature lace-up closures or adjustable elements to enhance comfort and customize the fit. Look for shoes with laces, zippers, ankle straps, or any other features that can provide a better fit and alleviate pressure on your feet. For example, these diabetic sneakers feature a functional zip for easy entry and laces for improved support and fit. Optimal support is crucial for individuals with diabetic feet who engage in activities throughout the day. Additionally, Mary Jane-style shoes with adjustable ankle straps, such as Sole Bliss' Nina shoes, offer extra support and style.
Wear Leather Shoes
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When choosing shoes for diabetes, it is highly recommended to opt for those made from leather. Leather shoes are known for their softness, flexibility, and durability. They are less likely to cause rubbing or blisters, making them ideal for individuals who have foot problems. Additionally, leather shoes provide better ventilation, reducing the amount of sweat and moisture on the feet. Look for diabetic shoes crafted from soft and durable leather to ensure optimal comfort and foot protection.
Wear Flat or Low Heeled Shoes
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While wearing heels is not entirely off-limits for individuals with diabetes, it is advisable to choose lower-heeled options. There are plenty of stylish low-heeled shoes available for diabetes patients, ensuring that fashion and functionality can go hand in hand. It is important to ensure that any heels worn are suitable for diabetic feet, providing a wide-fit design with seam-free leather linings and soft cushioned soles. It is best to avoid high heels that can exert excessive pressure on the ball of the foot. Always prioritize comfort and avoid shoes that may cause cuts, blisters, corns, or calluses.
Wear Wide-Fit Shoes
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Wide-fit shoes are highly recommended for individuals with diabetes. It is important to avoid wearing tight or narrow shoes that can compress the toes and potentially cause foot damage. Optimal diabetic shoes should never lead to blisters, corns, or calluses; they should offer ample space and accommodate swelling. It is crucial to prevent any lacerations or cuts on the feet, as diabetic neuropathy can lead to a loss of sensation. Regularly inspect your feet for any changes or injuries and seek medical attention if necessary. Wide-fit shoes with rounded or square-shaped toes provide more spacious options for individuals with diabetic feet. Sole Bliss offers a range of diabetic shoes with deep and wide toe-boxes to ensure optimum comfort and foot protection.
What are the Best Shoes for Diabetes?
When searching for the best shoes for diabetes, it is important to consider several factors. While the term "shoes for diabetics" may evoke thoughts of orthopedic-looking footwear, rest assured that there are stylish options available.
Here are our top tips for finding shoes for diabetic neuropathy:
1. Wear wide-fit shoes to accommodate foot swelling and prevent compression.
2. Choose shoes with cushioned soles for optimal comfort and protection against impact.
3. Opt for flat or low-heeled shoes to minimize pressure on the feet.
4. Look for shoes made from leather for softness, flexibility, and durability.
5. Select shoes with lace-up or adjustable features to ensure a comfortable and customized fit.
6. Consider shoes with extra depth to provide additional room for the feet, particularly if you utilize custom insoles or orthotics.
7. Avoid flip-flops or unsupportive sandals and opt for closed-toe shoes that provide proper support and protection.
Remember, Sole Bliss offers a wide range of shoes specially designed for diabetic feet, ensuring a comfortable fit with seam-free leather linings and deep and wide toe-boxes. Visit their collection of shoes for diabetes to explore more options. If you have any questions about the suitability of their shoes for your feet, their friendly and knowledgeable Customer Care Team is available to assist you.
Alongside finding comfortable shoes for diabetes, it is necessary to prioritize overall foot care. Here are some additional recommendations for looking after diabetic feet:
1. Stop Smoking: Seek support from your healthcare team to quit smoking and reduce the risk of foot complications.
2. Monitor Cholesterol, Blood Sugar, and Blood Pressure Levels: Regularly check these parameters to manage diabetes effectively and promote good foot health.
3. Eat Healthy and Exercise Regularly: Follow a nutritious and balanced diet tailored to your needs, and engage in regular physical activity to support diabetes management.
4. Check Your Feet for Changes Daily: Inspect your feet daily for any cuts, sores, redness, or swelling, and seek medical attention if any changes occur.
5. Be Careful When Cutting Your Nails: Trim your toenails carefully, avoiding cutting too short or down the sides, and use nail clippers instead of scissors. Smooth any sharp edges with an emery board and clean your toenails gently with a nail brush.
6. Moisturize Daily: Use an emollient cream recommended by your podiatrist and clean between your toes after moisturizing to prevent dermatologic issues.
7. Stay Away from Blades or Corn Plasters: Refrain from using blades or corn plasters, and seek professional podiatry assistance for corns or other skin problems.
8. Keep in Touch with Your Healthcare Team: Regularly consult with your healthcare team, including podiatrists, to ensure ongoing foot care and address any concerns or issues that may arise.
The combination of proper footwear, foot care, and a healthy lifestyle will greatly contribute to maintaining good foot health for individuals with diabetes.
Vionic Relax Slippers
Best House Shoes for Diabetics
Vionic Relax slippers are considered among the best women's slippers for individuals with diabetes. These slippers feature a supportive and ergonomic footbed, plush terry cloth fabric, a flexible midsole, and a hook and loop closure for a customized fit. Celebrities like Oprah Winfrey are fans of these slippers. While this specific model is not available for men, you can explore the best slippers for men as well.
Hoka One One Sky Kaha Hiking Boot
The Finest Hiking Shoes for Diabetics
Renowned as some of the exquisite hiking shoes in the market, the Hoka’s Sky Kaha hiking boot proves to be an outstanding choice for individuals with diabetes. It boasts an incredibly soft lining that guards the feet against chafing and blisters. Additionally, the shoe exhibits remarkable durability, ultra-grip capabilities, and a lightweight composition that facilitates effortless movement across challenging terrains.
New Balance Men’s 577 V1 Walking Shoe
The Ultimate Walking Shoes for Diabetics
With its commendable ratings on Amazon, New Balance’s 577 V1 walking shoe proves to be one of the top walking shoes for men. (It's worth noting that the brand also manufactures some of the finest walking shoes for women.) The shoe features additional cushioning in the heel, providing exceptional shock absorption, and a polyurethane midsole that ensures stability. Furthermore, the hook and loop closure allows wearers to adjust the fit according to their comfort preference, enabling proper circulation. The shoe is available in multiple widths.
Altra Footwear Escalante 2.5
According to Dr. Rushton, Altra shoes are highly recommended for individuals with diabetes due to their "exceptionally wide toe boxes that prevent rubbing and thick soles." The Escalante 2.5 attains remarkable ratings and offers neutral support, making it an exceptional choice for physical activities and everyday tasks alike.
Brooks Catamount Sneaker
The Top-Notch Running Shoes for Diabetics
Podiatrists unanimously agree that the Brooks Catamount sneaker serves as a leading orthopedic shoe for women and an excellent option for men. The padded tongue and collar ensure easy accessibility and comfort once laced, thereby helping diabetics avoid unnecessary rubbing and blisters. Additionally, the soft mesh lining promotes breathability, while the insole provides ample cushioning and responsiveness.
Nike Zoom Winflo 6 Running
Reviews rave about these Nike sneakers for their "exceptional arch support" and being "as light as a feather." Additionally, they feature a soft lining, responsive low-profile cushioning, and a knit upper that conforms to the shape of the foot, ensuring ultimate comfort.
Adidas Women’s Cloudfoam Qt Racer
Adidas' Cloudfoam Qt Racer prioritizes softness. It boasts a breathable, lightweight knit upper and cloud-like cushioning in the outsole. With nearly 8,000 reviews and an impressive average rating of 4.5 stars on Amazon, these sneakers serve as an exceptional choice for running, walking, or casual outings.
Skechers Women’s Go Walk Joy Walking Shoe
The Finest Diabetic Shoes for Extended Standing
These Skechers walking shoes for women offer highly responsive cushioning with a high-rebound insole. They are widely recognized as some of the top shoes for extended standing due to their lightweight and flexible fit. The breathable mesh upper ensures proper air circulation, while the soft fabric lining guarantees comfort from every angle. Moreover, the outsole provides substantial traction, making them an ideal slip-on option for everyday use. The shoes are available in both wide and regular fits.
Best Boot: Propét Cliff Walker
Designed to withstand diverse weather conditions, the Propét Cliff Walker boots feature a rubber sole and a weather-resistant leather exterior. These boots provide optimal comfort, thanks to their shock-absorbing EVA midsole (a type of foam). Additionally, they are approved by Medicare, making them an excellent choice for individuals in need of specialized shoes for specific medical conditions like diabetes. The boots are available in various other styles as well.
Yibobay Diabetic Shoes
Superb Velcro Diabetic Shoes
Yibobay's diabetic shoes are designed to be extra-wide, offering ample space for diabetic feet. They receive excellent reviews from elderly customers in particular. These shoes feature a soft, padded tongue and collar, a velcro strap for a customizable fit, and memory foam insoles that ensure even weight distribution with every step.
What to Consider When Choosing Shoes for Diabetes
When shopping for the finest shoes to alleviate the symptoms of diabetes, here are a few key features to bear in mind.
Comfort is of utmost importance, especially for individuals with diabetes.
"Softness, or the ability of the shoe to rest atop your foot without causing any harm, is crucial for preventing ulcers on the top of your foot," advises Dr. Robinson.
Shoe depth plays a significant role in preventing friction on the toes and other areas of the foot, according to Dr. Hanft. "Having additional depth in the toe box and upper portion of the shoe can promote healthier feet," he adds.
Many individuals with diabetes experience structural issues like calluses, in addition to peripheral neuropathy. Therefore, having appropriate support in the shoe is essential. "Support is necessary to prevent injuries resulting from instability, especially since individuals with diabetes may not feel foot injuries," explains Dr. Robinson.
Dr. Robinson cautions against rigid or tight shoes, as they can cause foot injuries and even ulcers. Thus, it is recommended to opt for shoes with a wide and high toe box, providing sufficient room for the toes.
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If you are experiencing severe medical symptoms, please refer to the National Library of Medicine’s list of indications that necessitate emergency medical attention or dial 911 immediately.
In conclusion, it is crucial for individuals with diabetes to prioritize their foot health by investing in the right pair of shoes. From the top overall pick, the New Balance Made in USA 990 V5 Sneaker, to the best boots like the Propét Cliff Walker, there are plenty of options available that provide comfort, support, and protection. Whether you opt for shoes with cushioned soles, extra depth, or adjustable features, the key is to find a pair that fits properly and promotes optimal circulation. Remember to moisturize daily, monitor your health levels, and make healthy lifestyle choices. With the right shoes and care, you can confidently step into a more comfortable and stable future.
