Diabetic Shoes: How to Choose Comfortable Footwear for Everyday Wear

Cushioned sole: Adds comfort for everyday walking.

Rather than simply buying a longer shoe, consider whether you actually need more width or depth.

Can You Wear Regular Walking Shoes?

Not everyone with diabetes necessarily needs specialized therapeutic footwear.

The appropriate shoe depends on individual foot health and risk factors. The ADA notes that comfortable athletic or walking shoes can be suitable for daily wear when therapeutic footwear is not required.

However, if you have neuropathy, foot deformities, ulcers, significant calluses, or other foot complications, ask your healthcare professional whether special shoes or inserts would be appropriate.

Take Care of Your Feet Alongside Choosing the Right Shoes

Good footwear is only one part of diabetic foot care.

Inspect your feet regularly and look for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or other changes. Check the inside of your shoes before putting them on to make sure there are no objects that could cause injury. The ADA also recommends wearing socks and avoiding going barefoot.

If you notice an open sore, ulcer, persistent redness, or an injury that does not heal, contact your healthcare professional promptly.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right diabetic shoes starts with finding a comfortable, properly fitting design that does not pinch or rub your feet. Features such as a wide toe box, extra width, extra depth, adjustable closures, flexible materials, cushioning, and a stable sole can all be useful depending on your individual needs.