The best diabetic shoes for walking can be challenging to find — especially if you’re looking for something stylish in addition to their function. But this list you’ve found is your answer.
Below, I share two dozen great walking shoes that have various features of diabetic friendly shoes. From comfort to cushion, from style to support, this list covers it all.
The Best Diabetic Shoes for Walking
It is super important to take good care of our feet when we have diabetes. As you know, diabetes is more than simply keeping blood sugar levels in check. And wearing a good quality shoe is also part of the bigger picture. We need to have extra cushioning and support as we walk! So here are several things to look for in a great quality walking shoe.
What to Look For In Diabetic Walking Shoes
There are several things to look for in a good quality shoe for walking. Consider this short list when you purchase your next pair:
- material – You’ll want to wear shoes with a soft and stretchy fabric or a breathable leather so it moves with your foot when you take your daily walks. Choose shoes made of breathable materials to keep your feet dry.
- style – Opt for laces over other choices so you can adjust the shoe for a proper fit.
- lightweight -The last thing you want to do is add a bunch of weight to your shoes to wear you down. You can walk farther and longer with a lightweight shoe.
- flexible – This goes so well with the first point above. The material of the shoe you choose needs to be flexible to move well with your foot.
- shock-absorbing sole – You’ll see some running shoes in this list of good walking shoes. That’s because they offer great shock absorption qualities — a must for a good walking shoe.
- extra room for toes – Pinched toes are no fun and they can also cause sores, which are even worse. So go for a shoe that has ample room for your toes to move as you walk.
- fit – Avoid ill-fitting shoes. When you try on your shoes, you should have half a thumb width between the end of your longest toe and the end of the shoe for the right size and best fit.
- padding – Look for padding not just for the bottom of your foot, but in the tongue and around your ankles as well.
- comfort – Comfortable shoes is key because you don’t want tired feet at the end of the day. And the shoes in this list have high ratings for comfort!
What About Other Diabetic Foot Care Considerations?
With diabetes, there are several considerations to take good care of your feet because of the increased risk of foot problems. We want to try to avoid common issues like nerve damage, fungal infections, ingrown toenails, diabetic neuropathy, poor circulation, foot ulcers, diabetic foot pain, and other foot issues. We can help all of that by not only choosing quality shoes for our feet, but other ideas also.
Diabetic Socks
In addition to diabetic friendly walking shoes, have you considered diabetic socks? It may be a good idea because they are known for keeping feet dry. They also promote good blood flow to help provide relief from swollen feet and ankles. Other highly recommended brands are Dr. Comfort, Activa, Truform, and Dry Max.
Special FooT Needs
There are special foot health needs you may have, including things like heel pain, achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and more. Some shoes (toward the bottom of this list) will help you with those. You could certainly get custom orthotics if you wish. And as always, consult your healthcare provider or podiatrist for medical advice on your specific situation.
Diabetic Pedicures
Another consideration for women with diabetes is pedicures. I wrote about the importance of a diabetic pedicure and the reasons behind it on the blog recently. This also goes hand in hand with walking and overall care for our feet.
24 Highly Rated Shoes By Category
Without further ado, let’s get on with the shoes! You won’t find special shoes for diabetic feet from the “Diabetic Shoe Company” and that’s ok. There are several features of regular shoes made my various shoe manufacturers that are diabetic friendly for what is most important to you.
These 24 best diabetic shoes for walking below are all categorized for you, so you can easily look at what is most important for you and make the perfect choice. Other than that, they are in no particular order. Prices are accurate from internet research in September 2024. Which pair are the right shoes for you?
Best Value for Money in diabetic shoes for walking
This is the category I’m starting with because it would be what I would want to know immediately. How can I find the best shoes for the best price? I’m not one to overspend on a brand name if the value or quality isn’t truly better. So that’s where we’ll begin.
1. New Balance 608 v5
Someone recently told me, “I always thought New Balance made good shoes.” And so have I. In fact, my own walking shoes are a style of New Balance. They have taken me around my neighborhood more than I can count now.
These particular New Balance 608 v5 shoes are known for their long wear, comfort, stability, and also their value for the cost. Coming in around $60 for a leather walking shoe is on the low end of what I was finding for the best walking shoes.
They also have a padded insert and foam midsole. And they are available in three color choices. Also, multiple width choices are available, including wide.
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2. Ryka Devotion Plus 3
Not only does this shoe have high ratings for the value of the purchase, it’s got several other great qualities. A roomier toe is always nice, and so is its softer foot cushioning. It offers increased traction and is known for durability.
The Ryka Devotion Plus 3 has good arch support. It also has a RE-ZORB responsive cushioning for shock absorption and impact protection. They are made of a breathable engineered mesh so your foot stays nice and dry. And they are available in wide width and 12 color choices. They’re a steal at $69.
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Running shoes That Double as walking Shoes
Several running shoes are known to be good walking shoes because of their ability to absorb the impact of running. If they can absorb the jarring of a run, they can certainly absorb a nice, long walk. So here are a few that would be good ones to consider as the best diabetic shoes for walking.
3. Adidas Ultraboost Light 23
Adidas has been around forever as a tried and true shoe brand. With this specific shoe, the reviews rave about heel comfort, stability, and cushion. So those are amazing for walking.
The Adidas Ultraboost Light 23 comes in a whopping 27 color combinations for whatever fashion statement you’d like to make, and in a range of $99-$149. A quick caution: some reviewers have noted the width was narrower than they expected. So if you’re looking for a wider shoe, you should consider another in the list.
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4. Asics Gel-Venture 8 Running Shoes
If you’re looking for a wider athletic shoes shoe for your walking adventures, then consider this Asics offering. That’s especially if you’re planning to go on a hike or walk a trail. These shoes also have high marks for their rugged outsole for trails, traction, and cushion.
The Asics Gel-Venture 8 Running Shoes also have high ratings on the value for the price. At $49-$99, depending on the width and color you choose, that’s a very competitive price for a running shoe.
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5. Asics Gel Nimbus 25
If you’re an Asics fan, you may want to also consider this style — the Nimbus 25. This style is known for its comfort, support, and quality. They are made of a breathable knit to help keep your feet nice and dry as you walk.
With great arch support and PureGEL technology to help cushion your stride, the Asics Gel Nimbus 25 is a contender. It comes in more than 30 color combinations, all in standard width, ranging from $94-$237.
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6. Brooks Glycerin Stealthfit GTS 21
Another running shoe that contends as a great walking shoe is the Glycerin Stealthfit by Brooks. Made of a breathable flat knit, these shoes are nice and airy for your feet. Also, they offer nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning to help keep you comfy as you stroll.
Known for its quality, comfort, and support, the Brooks Glycerin Stealthfit GTS 21 comes in 13 different color options. However, there is not an option for a wide width. Standard sizes are all available for $159.
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Best Diabetic Shoes for Walking Under $50
This might be one of my favorite categories. Can I be honest? My walking shoes are like five versions old. I don’t need the fanciest and newest to be healthy and comfortable to walk my neighborhood. Am I right?
7. Adidas Cloudfoam Pure 2.0
Let’s start with this cozy-looking option. I personally love the gray! Although it would go with anything, it comes in 16 different color choices, including a leopard print.
As far as form and function goes, the Adidas Cloudfoam Pure 2.0 is known for its comfort, lightweight, and cushion as you walk. As noted in the name, it offers Cloudfoam cushioning for a gentle step. Although wide width is not available, standard sizes range from $40-$110.
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8. Akk Walking Shoes
I hadn’t heard of the AKK brand until my research on best diabetic shoes for walking. But these guys are killing it, ranked #27 in Women’s Walking Shoes in all of Amazon. They have high ratings for their comfort, light weight, quality and breathability. Those are all major factors in my book.
There is added comfort in the AKK walking shoes because of the memory foam insole. Wide widths (and EXTRA wide) are available in more than 20 colors for $45.
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9. Skechers Go Walk 5
Sketchers is a popular brand in the shoe business, and for good reason. They are a quality shoe, and this one in particular is known specifically for good arch support and comfort. Unlike other shoes in the list so far, these don’t lace up. Instead, they have elastic “laces” that provide a slip on shoe.
The Skechers Go Walk 5 offers an Air Fit Insole for additional padding and cushion as you walk. Available in 13 different color (with wide with sizes available), their list price is between $46-$90.
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10. WHITIN Running Shoe
This shoes is technically a running shoe. It could have been in a previous category with the running shoes, but the price is so good, I put it in the “under $50” list. Its zero-drop heel encourages better posture. And this style also helps with balance & ankle stability.
The Whitin Running Shoe offers roomy toe width and removable insoles so you have enough room for a comfortable fit. Take your pick of 7 color choices for $39-$45.
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FREE BONUS: TRACK YOUR WALKING
Scroll to the bottom to get your free habit tracker instant download printable!
High Quality Rated Walking Shoes
And now we move on to the walking shoes with the highest quality ratings. As you may expect, these have some of the highest price tags, but perhaps the age-old adage is right: you pay for what you get.
11. Hoka Arahi 7
The reviews are in, and the Hoka Arahi 7 have high marks for comfort. This shoe is highly rated for people who are in shoes all day, and could be on their feet for most of their job. Although these shoes have just come available a week prior to writing this post, there are already lots of reviews on Amazon.
People are saying the Hoka Arahi 7 is the best pair of shoes they have ever owned. If you’re looking for a roomy toe box, this may be a good option to check into. Several color options are available for a price tag of $169 – $297.
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12. On Cloud 5
Maybe I live under a rock, but I had never heard of this brand until I started researching diabetic shoes for walking. But now I see them everywhere! They are known for their distinct look, and also for comfort and quality.
The On Cloud 5 shoe is made of a performance mesh that is comfortable and airy to wear. A lightweight shoe, they also offer reflective accents, a cushioned collar and perforated tongue, removable insole with a design for everyday wear. With more than 30 color options, they range in price from $125-$297.
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13. Saucony Cohesion 17
Another shoe known for quality is the Saucony Cohesion 17. With 10 different color combinations and wide width available, this may be the walking shoe for you.
The Saucony Cohesion 17 features VERSARUN cushioning to absorb impact and reduce pressure. And a breathable mesh material helps keep your feet dry. Pricing ranges from $59-$100.
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Walking Shoes with Good Cushion and Support
Now we move on to the walking shoes focused on good cushion and support. Those are two things that are also important to diabetics. So here are four options that will offer the extra protection of great support and cushion for a more comfortable walk.
14. Hoka Bondi 8
This second offering from Hoka on our list is the Bondi 8. Not only are these comfortable with good cushion and support for your foot, they have a slim textile lined and padded insole. And they offer a Durable full length EVA midsole to absorb shock and offer stability also.
The Hoka Bondi 8 is also highly rated for their variety of color options (with 40 choices!). This lightweight shoe is available in standard sizes and wide widths in a price range of $153-$319.
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15. Hoka Clifton 9
Another Hoka offering known for cushion and support is the Clifton 9. These are known for their comfort, cushion and support. They are also lightweight and sturdy.
The Clifton 9 just hit the market a few months ago and are one of Hoka’s newest offerings. They come in more than 15 color choices and in wide widths as well. Prices range from $169-$346.
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16. Keen WK 400
Ok. I absolutely love the appearance of this shoe. I think it’s the offset laces. And the color too. They call it “fawn/peach whip” — isn’t that amazing? Other than appearance, these shoes are also known for their cushioned tongue and collar, great arch support, and padding.
The Keen WK 400 is made of a breathable mesh and has a shock absorbing underfoot to cushion your step. Standard sizing is available (and some reviews say they run narrow) for $75-$160.
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17. New Balance Made in USA 990×6
And now for our second style of New Balance shoes on the list. The Made In USA 990X6. This style features a FuelCell foam delivers a propulsive feel to help drive you forward. Also, the ENCAP midsole cushioning combines lightweight foam with a durable polyurethane rim to deliver all-day support.
Only two weeks on the market when this post is being written, the New Balance Made in USA 990×6 is is a unisex sneaker offered in wide, extra-wide, and extra-extra-wide widths. With five color choices, the price ranges from $199-$346.
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Certified Diabetic Shoes for Walking
I have learned so very much in my deep-dive research of the best diabetic footwear for walking. And this entire category is proof. Brooks brand shoes offer several that are certified diabetic sneakers for walking. Did you know this? Here are three of the best examples of therapeutic shoes for you.
18. Brooks Addiction Walker 2
The Brooks Addiction Walker 2 is our first of three Brooks brand offerings in the best diabetic shoes for walking. This one in particular is highly rated for great width choices (narrow to extra wide). This Brooks style is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance.
The Brooks Addiction Walker 2 is made of a full grain leather for comfort and durability. It also features a soft cushion interior and an innovative outsole that’s been certified (SATRA TM144:2011) for slip resistance and excellent traction. In two color choices, these shoes range in price from $108-$129.
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19. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22
Another Brooks shoe that is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance is the Adrenaline GTS 22. While the Addiction Walker 2 above is made of leather, this one is designed with a synthetic material.
Cushioning is amazing in the Adrenaline GTS 22. This shoe features 100% DNA LOFT cushioning paired with the Segmented Crash Pad. This particular shoe offers the most variety in width options, ranging from narrow to extra wide. You can choose your fashion in this shoe offered in almost 40 different color choices for $74-$199.
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20. Brooks Ghost 16
Our final shoe in the Brooks family is the Ghost 16. Like the others, it is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance. Made of engineered air mesh, it features nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning.
The Brooks Ghost 16 is also available in narrow to extra wide width options. Choose from two dozen color options for $137-$139.
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Automatically Wide Toe Box Diabetic Shoes for Walking
In addition to the diabetic certified shoes above, there are also walking shoes with wider toe boxes for additional comfort.
21. FitVille Women’s Running Shoes
FitVille sounds like a place I’d like to live. You too? What a fun name for a shoe. These lightweight, supportive shoes have good traction and flexibility. Made of a breathable mesh, they will help keep your feet dry while walking.
The FitVille Women’s Running Shoes is technically made to be a running shoe. So the cushion is rated well, which is good for walking. They are available in light blue (pictured), raspberry, and also black. And for a running shoe, they’re a steal at $69.
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22. QAUPPE Womens Walking Shoes
I can’t put a finger on it, but this is my favorite looking shoe of the bunch. Perhaps it the gray and orange color combination. But there’s more than looks to these amazing shoes!
They have a roomy toe width, arch support, shock absorption, and they also ease foot pain caused by flat feet, bunions and arthritis. They provide relief for Plantar Fasciitis too.
The Qauppe Women’s Walking Shoes feature air cushion to absorb shock and protect feet from impact. With Anatomical Arch Support and breathable mesh, your feet will be comfortable and dry as you walk. With 15+ color choices, you have choose your own for $49-$58.
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Certified Orthopedic Walking Shoes for Diabetics
In all my research, I have found two specific orthopedic walking shoes for diabetes that are pretty stylish as well.
23. Orthofeet Orthopedic Knit Coral Sneaker
The Orthofeet brand offers a great-looking orthopedic walking shoe that is highly rated for its breathable fabric, enhanced ventilation, heel cushioning, water repellent, and wide toe box. It also features a premium orthotic insole and arch booster.
With unmatched cushioning, the Orthofeet Orthopedic Knit Coral Sneaker benefits 20+ conditions including foot and heel pain, plantar fasciitis, diabetes, arthritis, bunions, achilles tendonitis, hammer toes, and more. For $115, choose from five color options and wide or standard width.
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24. Walk-Hero Walking Shoes
The last shoe in our list is from Walk-Hero, another orthopedic walking shoe. This shoe style is designed to help with achilles tendonitis, heel pain, flat feet, arthritis, bunions, and plantar fasciitis. These shoes include professional arch support insoles. The compound ergonomic three-point support are designed to reduce foot fatigue and discomfort, while reducing the stress caused by long walking or standing.
The breathable toe box in the Walk-Hero Walking Shoes helps with a roomy fit. Many people say they are the best orthopedic shoes they’ve tried. Available in four color choices, they are marked at $79.
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Highly Rated best Diabetic Shoes for Walking
There you have it! My list of two dozen of the most highly rated best diabetic shoes for walking. Which will you consider when you’re looking for new shoes? What’s the right pair of shoes for you? What shoes do you wear when you walk now? Are they on the list? Let me know what other shoes I should add in!
NOTE: I am not a doctor. Nothing here should be taken as professional medical advice. Any information provided should be used as a general guideline only. For the most accurate information, please consult your healthcare team.
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