The 7 Best Walking Shoes for Diabetes of 2024

What we like: Available in various widths, they are extra cushioned and easy to slip on and off.

What to know: The Coral sneaker is specifically for women, but Orthofeet’s men’s sneakers have the same diabetic-friendly features.

Cunha recommends Orthofeet as a brand because of their superior construction and comfort for feet that need extra special attention—and Irene Evuleocha, D.P.M. loves the Coral sneakers, one of the most popular picks in the brand’s line.

The Orthofeet Coral sneakers come with all the bells and whistles you need in a diabetic shoe. They have orthotic insoles for cushioning and proper alignment, which helps prevent injuries. Plus, “the ergonomic soles distribute pressure evenly across your feet, while the wide toe box gives your toes plenty of wiggle room to prevent blisters and calluses,” Cunha says. “They’re designed with extra depth, padded uppers and stretch materials to accommodate foot swelling and ensure a perfect fit all day.” They also have a seam-free interior to reduce friction and prevent sores. We also love the tie-free design that’s easy to slip on, so you don’t have to fiddle with tying your laces every time you put them on and take them off. 

Available sizes: 5 to 12 | Width options: Medium, wide, extra wide | Fit: True to size | Cushion level: Superior | Materials: Stretchable knitted upper, rubber sole

What we like: There are many different styles to choose from, including slip-on and laced, as well as a line with extra arch support.

What to know: Price, color and width depend on the style selected.

These comfy walking shoes come in various colors and styles, from slip-on to laced to loafer-like pairs, and they’re all reasonably priced. The Skechers Go Walk line of shoes provides room for sensitive feet and allows for an easy heel-to-toe gait that can help with balance, says Daniel Geller, D.P.M., a foot and ankle surgeon in Los Angeles.

These shoes have good arch support, and some styles have additional arch support (called the Go Walk Arch Fit, which is certified by podiatrists) and extra room in the toe box area for a comfy fit. They come in medium, wide and even extra-wide widths, but this depends on the style you select. Price, color selection, cushion level and material will also vary depending on the shoe.

Available sizes: Men 7 to 16, women 5 to 13 | Width options: Medium and wide | Fit: True to size | Cushion level: Varies depending on version/style | Materials: Varies depending on version/style

What we like: Available in three widths, they offer extra cushioning and comfort and come in many trendy colors.

What to know: While these come in three different width options, not all colorways are available in all widths.

Both Cunha and Geller recommend New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 because it boasts excellent shock absorption to help protect sensitive feet. “Diabetics need a shoe with good shock absorption because their feet are more susceptible to injuries due to neuropathy and poor circulation,” Cunha says. Shock absorption helps protect and cushion the feet, reducing the impact and stress on the bones and joints, which can lead to ulcers and pressure sores.

The Fresh Foam 1080 is an excellent choice for people with diabetes because they have a cushioned midsole and a solid rubber outsole, which helps maintain stability—a feature crucial for people with diabetes who may have balance issues or neuropathy, Cunha says. The rocker bottom makes it feel like you’re walking on a cloud, and the breathable mesh upper provides a structured and supportive feel that helps accommodate foot swelling.

Just note that the fit of these sneakers seems to vary depending on which version of the Fresh Foam 1080 you get (like the newer v13 versus the previous v12)—some seem tighter and narrower or bigger in the heel area. 

Available sizes: Men’s 7 to 16, women’s 5 to 13 | Width options: Standard, wide, extra wide | Fit: True to size | Cushion level: Extra soft | Materials: Mesh upper and rubber outsole

What we like: They have plenty of cushion and support to help prevent heel and foot pain. 

What to know: Some people note that this shoe runs a bit small, so you may need to order a half size up, especially if you have wide feet.

Cunha says the KURU Quantum 2.0 shoes are ideal for people with diabetes because they offer excellent cushioning and support without restricting the natural movement of the foot. 

Their wide toe box helps prevent the toes from crowding, which can lead to blisters, especially when you’re on your feet all day. Plus, the EVA foam absorbs shock and reduces impact on joints and bones, while the sole stabilizes the ankle and heel, “which is crucial for diabetics who may have balance issues or neuropathy,” Cunha says. We also love that they have shock-absorbing insoles that mold to your arch, making walking miles easier on the feet.

Available sizes: Women’s 5 to 12, men’s 7 to 14 | Width options: Medium and wide | Fit: Runs small | Cushion level: Maximum | Materials: Mesh and synthetic upper, rubber outsole

What we like: They offer a slip-on, sock-like fit that molds to your foot. 

What to know: They don’t come in different widths, and people with wide feet might find these to be a bit narrow.

The Allbirds Tree Dasher Relay’s slip-on design and light, breathable material make it feel like you’re barely wearing shoes. These sneakers are made with ultra-breathable yarn, which makes for maximum ventilation, a unique feature for a closed shoe, Cunha says. The upper is incredibly soft, flexible and lightweight, which allows your foot to move naturally. 

“Breathability is essential for diabetic shoes because it keeps the feet dry and cool, enhancing overall comfort and lowering the risk of infections and sores,” Cunha says. “Good ventilation prevents excessive moisture buildup, which can lead to skin infections and irritation—which is especially important for diabetics, who may have reduced sensation and slower wound healing.” Whether you’re stepping out to explore a new city or clear your head on a walking meditation, these shoes will feel light, airy and barely there.

Available sizes: Women’s 5 to 11, men’s 8 to 14 | Width options: Standard | Fit: True to size | Cushion level: Medium | Materials: Yarn upper and rubber outsole

What we like: They have excellent arch support and shock absorption and can help with joint alignment.

What to know: While these come in four different width options, not all colorways are available in all widths.

The Ghost 16 is cushiony-soft and lightweight, coming in at just 8.5 ounces, yet provides stability and shock absorption. “Lighter shoes are beneficial for diabetics because they reduce fatigue and strain on the feet and joints while enhancing balance, stability, and mobility—and this helps lower the risk of falls and foot injuries, which is especially crucial for diabetics with balance issues,” Cunha says. 

“The support offered by a neutral, cushioning shoe, such as this pair, can help overall joint alignment of the body from the feet up, maximizing comfort while you’re on your feet—especially for extended periods of time,” says Pamela Mehta, M.D. 

“They have a responsive midsole design that allows you to propel forward for a smooth balanced ride when walking long distances,” Cunha says. 

We love that the Ghost 16 has the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, which means they’re beneficial to foot health (e.g., it allows normal foot function and promotes quality foot health). The Ghost 16 is also PDAC A5500 Diabetic certified, which means you may be able to receive a healthcare reimbursement from Medicare when you purchase this shoe.

Available sizes: Women’s 5 to 13, men’s 7 to 15 | Width options: Narrow, medium, wide, extra wide | Fit: True to size | Cushion level: Medium | Materials: Engineered air mesh, rubber sole

What we like: They’re cushioned and comfortable enough for all-day wear, and they have a roomy fit.

What to know: They run a bit large, so if you have a narrow foot or don’t like a roomy shoe, consider ordering a half size down.

If you’re looking for a flexible shoe, Cunha recommends the Kizik Roamer, which features a stretchable knit upper that flexes with each movement. “Comfortable enough for all-day wear, these shoes are an excellent choice for diabetics looking for both practicality and comfort,” he says. Plus, the Roamers have an easy slip-on design. 

Stretchable shoes are essential for people with diabetes because they accommodate different foot shapes and swelling that may occur throughout the day, especially if you’re on your feet often. Cunha says the Kizik Roamers run on the larger side, so the extra room can help reduce pressure and friction that may lead to blisters, calluses or ulcers. And that’s crucial for maintaining foot health and preventing injuries. These super comfortable sneakers also get the green light from people with diabetes who may experience gait issues and nerve damage.

Available sizes: Women’s 6 to 13, men’s 4.5 to 15 | Width options: Standard | Fit: Runs large | Cushion level: High | Materials: Recycled-textile upper, rubber sole