7 Best Shoes For Diabetes, 20+ Shoes Tested in 2023
Keeping the feet free from wounds and pain is one of the top treatment plans for diabetic patients. Since they predominantly suffer from damaged nerves on their feet, people with diabetes seldom feel any irritations, calluses, or ulcers caused by improper footwear. With that said, wearing the right pair of walking shoes is vital to lower their risk from these kinds of foot issues.
To help them out, we researched more than a dozen pairs of shoes for diabetic patients and assessed them for different elements. We came up with our recommendations that we consider the best under various categories.
Table of contents How we test walking shoesbest overallBest for flat feetBest all-day wearBest New BalanceBest with strapBest valueMost popularComparison
Overview
How we test walking shoes
We carefully checked more than a dozen pairs of walking for diabetics to help you find the best solemate. For an honest and unbiased review, we:
- Buy these walking kicks using our own money.
- Thoroughly test these shoes to check their cushioning, stability, arch support, and many more parameters.
- Accumulate all available feedback from the users of these walking shoes.
From the results, we assign CoreScore for each model. Ranging from 1-100, this scoring system will determine the overall performance of the model.
Best shoes for diabetes overall
New Balance 623 v3
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$50
Joes New Balance Outlet
$60
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$75
Shoe Mall
Free shipping
$75
CoreScore
- Top 8% in New Balance walking shoes
- Top 26% in walking shoes for plantar fasciitis
- Top 11% most popular walking shoes
Pros
- Supportive midsole
- Stylish
- Good color selection
- Relieves foot issues
- Reasonably priced
- Fits perfectly
Cons
- Upper and sole durability issues
Verdict
Wearers acknowledged the New Balance 623 v3 as a comfortable and supportive everyday walking and gym workout shoe. It is also regarded as a good companion for people with foot issues. On the other hand, a significant number of reviewers were dismayed about its durability. Still, the shoe is quite recommendable for its other benefits.
Best shoes for diabetes for flat feet
Skechers Arch Fit - Waveport
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$77
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$79
Shoe Mall
Free shipping
$88
Running Warehouse
CoreScore
- Top 7% in walking shoes
- Top 10% in Skechers walking shoes
- Top 25% most popular walking shoes
Pros
- Excellent arch support
- Comfortable for all-day wear
- Fits good from the start
- Comes in Extra Wide
- Easy on-and-off
- Durable
- Light on the foot
- Machine-washable
- Easy to style
Cons
- Some prefer regular laces
- Not for rainy days
Verdict
The Arch Fit - Waveport is a solid option for men who prioritize comfort in their daily walking shoes. With its podiatrist-designed platform, this Skechers shoe offers plenty of arch support to keep your feet, legs, and back free from discomfort. No matter how many hours you spend on foot, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the companionship of this walking shoe.
Best shoes for diabetes for all-day wear
New Balance Leather 928 v3
Amazon
Free shipping
$123
Shoebacca
Free shipping & returns
$145
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$155
New Balance
Free shipping & returns
$155
CoreScore
- Top 16% in New Balance walking shoes
- Top 27% in leather walking shoes
Pros
- Lasting comfort
- Excellent ankle support
- Stable platform
- Available in varying widths
- Relieves pain
- Allows orthotic inserts
- Quality materials
Cons
- Stiff sole unit
- Insufficient forward roll
- High price tag
- Lacks ankle support to some
Verdict
The stability and ankle support of the New Balance Leather 928 v3 exceeded the expectations of many walking shoe aficionados. They also appreciate the availability of different width dimensions. However, consumers were not pleased with its short tongue, hard cushioning unit, and durability. In the end, it was considered a reliable shoe for walking and long periods of standing because it is extremely comfortable.
Best diabetic (a5500) New Balance walking shoes
CoreScore
- Top 27% in New Balance walking shoes
- Top 17% in velcro walking shoes
Pros
- Quick to wear
- Satisfactory fit and sizing
- Improves gait
Cons
- Durability issue
- Stiff
Verdict
Consumers extended their commendations to the New Balance Hook and Loop 813 for the comfort it offers, thanks to its motion control features. However, complaints came up about the overall construction of the shoe. But despite the unfavorable reviews, a significant number of wearers still lauded the shoe for its easy-access closure.
Best shoes for diabetes with strap
CoreScore
- Top 16% in Propet walking shoes
Pros
- Comfortable footbed
- Supportive and cushiony underfoot
- Well-fitting
- Quick fit adjustment design
- Accommodates orthotics and braces
- Great overall quality
Cons
- Cheaply-looking upper material
- Unappealing bulky design
Verdict
Wearers looking for a well-fitting walking companion that provides comfort and adequate support were delighted with how the Propet Tour Walker Strap satisfied their needs. While it may not be the top choice among buyers because of its bulky design, the majority enjoyed this footgear for the many benefits it brought them.
Best value
Propet Life Walker Strap
Amazon
Free shipping
$28
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$85
Shoebacca
Free shipping & returns
$85
Shoe Mall
Free shipping
$85
CoreScore
- Top 8% in Propet walking shoes
- Top 28% in velcro walking shoes
Pros
- Comfortable for extended periods
- Versatile stylish design
- Adequate lateral support
- Easy to put on and remove
- Great quality-price ratio
- Lightweight
- Accommodates heel inserts
- Stable arch support
- Non-marking outsole
- Breathable
Cons
- Closure mechanism issues
- Durability concerns
- Limited colorways
Verdict
Well received for its comfort, support, and reasonable price, plenty of wearers lauded the Propet Life Walker Strap. It also didn't fall short of style. Its aesthetic design captured the interest of many. However, wearers with high insteps find the closure mechanism counterintuitive. They complained about its narrow tongue and the strap for them being too short. Despite that, the many positive feedbacks this footwear got outweighed the negatives.
Most popular shoes for diabetes
CoreScore
- Top 4% most popular walking shoes
Pros
- Comfortable for walking
- Available in multiple widths
- Helps to relieve pain from plantar fasciitis
- Affordable
- Fits well with orthotics
- No slipping or sliding
- Good for moderate gym use
- Approved for diabetes (A5500 code)
Cons
- Laces are too long
- Not many colorways
Verdict
The New Balance 624 belongs to the brand’s long-standing silhouettes. Over the years, it has gained plenty of “believers” who claim it to be their 3rd, 6th, and even 20th(!) pair. With a classic dad-shoe appeal, it may not be a head-turner but it surely delivers comfort and support.
