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The best orthopedic shoes in 2024, according to experts
Foot, hip and knee pain can be caused by the unlikeliest sources — including your old, ill-fitting shoes. Even if your favorite shoes are brand new, a poor fit could lead to discomfort, pain and even plantar fasciitis, bunions or other foot conditions. In fact, one 2018 study found that up to 72% of participants wore incorrectly sized footwear. Additionally, the study found that adults, seniors and those with diabetes were 81% more likely to wear shoes that were too narrow.
The best orthopedic shoes or custom orthotics can make your feet feel more comfortable and minimize pain while walking, running or hiking. "Wearing appropriate, supportive shoes can indirectly help prevent pain by maintaining a normal gait cycle," says Dr. Austin A. Hall, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon. As he explains, the gait cycle — which encompasses both your stance and swing — can be influenced negatively if any part of it is out of sync. Just make sure if you're diabetic or have underlying health issues you check with your doctor to see if there are additional considerations you should take when choosing a pair of orthopedic shoes.
But here's the good news: the landscape of orthopedic footwear has changed significantly in the last 40 years. These foot health-supporting shoes no longer come only in white and black colors with clunky soles and Velcro straps. In fact, most of the shoes we've identified here look like standard athletic shoes at first glance, so you don't have to dread buying a pair that may make your feet feel better, but make your wardrobe look worse. And because the market for high-quality (and reasonably fashionable) orthopedic shoes has exploded, there are way too many options on the market to sift through them all on your own. That's why we took the onus on our own shoulders to speak with podiatrists, physical therapists and foot surgeons to learn what to look for and how to choose the right orthopedic shoes for you.
Read more: If you are suffering from knee pain, check out the best knee braces. We also have suggestions for the best wrist braces on the market.
From there, our experts got to work testing more than 30 different shoes, sorting through the best of the best to bring you the brands and styles that address everything from knee and back pain to bunions. Then, we narrowed them down to what we and our experts believe are the nine best options. Read on to see which ones made the cut and to find your perfect fit.
Best orthopedic shoe overall
Colors available: 20 | Sizes available: Women’s: 5-10.5 in whole and half sizes, 11-12 (wide-width available) Men’s: 7-12.5 in whole and half sizes, 13-16 (wide-width and extra wide-width available) | Best for: Diabetic neuropathy, heel spurs, overall foot health | Athletic style: Running | Materials: Rubber, synthetic materials
You may have noticed that Hoka sneakers seem to have sprung out of nowhere and are now seen everywhere, and for good reason: Hoka makes comfortable performance footwear for walking, running, hiking, and exploring. The Bondi 8 is a walking and everyday running shoe that provides the highest level of cushioning the brand offers and has been upgraded with a more stable, extended heel. The shoes are so good, AOL's health editor's husband had, "horribly painful diabetic feet until he put on his first pair of HOKAs." She added that now her entire family wears HOKAs, right down to her eleven-year-old son.
The shoe also carries The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, which recognizes products that benefit foot health. Moreover, the Bondi 8 features three of the recommendations that Liza Egbogah, a chiropractor and osteopath, recommends for anyone needing orthotic shoes: a wide toe box, shock-absorbing soles with materials like EVA to cushion each step and a rocker sole to minimize pressure points when walking.
Additionally, Dr. Hall says the thicker sole on shoes such as Hokas was designed to "decrease force applied to the foot with each step. More shock absorption through the shoes means less force being transferred to the feet, ankles, knees, and hips, generally resulting in less pain."
- Plush EVA cushioning
- Rocker sole for correct gait
- Lightweight
- Large selection of colors and sizes
- Sporty look and feel might not work for everyday wear
- Not stable enough for strength training or hiking
Other top orthopedic shoes we recommend for 2024
Colors available: White; cream white | Sizes available: 5-9.5 in whole and half sizes; 10-13 (wide-width available) | Best for: Plantar fasciitis, overpronation, arch support | Athletic style: Walking | Materials: Leather, ethylene vinyl acetate, suede
Plantar fasciitis is a painful inflammatory condition that feels like dull or aching pain in your heel and arch that can be exacerbated by overpronation or supination (i.e. underpronation). Pronation is the way your foot lands and distributes the impact inward or outward when you’re walking. Having high arches, incorrect pronation, and wearing shoes that aren’t supportive enough can all cause plantar fasciitis. “Orthopedic shoes work to correct gait, provide support for your arches and improve overall alignment so that your body can function better,” explains Egbogah. Vionic shoes are crafted for just this purpose.
The Karmelle sneaker is one style option for women that fits the bill if you have plantar fasciitis and are looking for an all-day comfort casual shoe that looks like a traditional lace-up sneaker. The shoes are stable while remaining flexible and supportive with superior cushioning and arch support.
Men can find the same comfort and casual style with the Vionic Thompson Slip-ons Loafers.
- Corrects pronation that causes plantar fasciitis
- EVA foam cushioning
- Arch support
- Limited colors
Colors available: Black, brown, navy, tan | Sizes available: 4.5-13 (No half sizes; wide-width available) | Best for: Arch support, improved stability, plantar fasciitis | Athletic style: Walking, all-day wear | Materials: Rubber and leather
Traditionally, orthopedic shoes were designed for function, not fashion. While high heels and narrow-toe boxes are never recommended for those needing supportive shoes, stylish and streamlined orthopedic shoes are available today. Dansko’s Fawna Mary Jane shoes are a great example of a fashionable orthopedic shoe that doesn’t look like an orthopedic shoe. The Fawna shoe is made of soft, attractive, stain-resistant leather in classic colors like black, brown and navy that match any outfit. These shoes have removable EVA footbeds made of a comfy shock-absorbing material that Dr. Egbogah recommends for its ability to cushion each step you take. The special ergonomic insoles provide cushioned arch support, which makes these dress shoes an ideal choice for comfort while still looking fabulous.
While the Velcro closure may be easier for some to navigate than a clasp or snap, the Velcro may catch on clothing and could lose strength over time.
- Cushioned insole
- Contoured arch support
- Classy and versatile
- Wide-widths available
- Waterproof
- Stiff toe and opening may be uncomfortable for some until broken in
- May not provide enough arch support for more severe foot conditions
Colors available: 7 options in various shades of black and brown with various sole colors | Sizes available: 7-11.5 in whole and half sizes, 12-16 (wide-width available) | Best for: Heel spurs, overpronation, stability | Athletic style: Walking, all-day wear | Materials: Rubber, leather
Comfortable shoes don’t have to sacrifice style, as evidenced by the stylish design and superior quality materials and craftsmanship of these Cole Haan Wingtip Oxfords. While they look like your standard men’s dress shoes, the ultimate draw is the supreme comfort that the brand is known for. The Wingtip Oxford is a dress shoe that wears like a sneaker due to Cole Haan's patented Grand OS cushioning technology and lightweight rubber outsoles. The shoes are also orthotic-friendly if you’d prefer to add your own custom insoles. Find a pair that matches your particular style with a range of shades in classic black and brown leather with your choice of sole color.
- Cushioned comfort
- Superior materials
- Lightweight athletic feel
- Stylish for everyday wear
- May run narrow
- Stiff and will take time to break in
Colors available: 5 (women); 3 (men) | Sizes available: Women’s: 5.5-11 in whole and half sizes; Men’s: 7-11.5 whole and half sizes, 12-14 | Best for: Maximum energy transfer at toe-off, grip, stability, arch support | Athletic style: Running | Materials: Rubber, synthetic materials
If you’re searching for a plush, cushioned, yet stable, and responsive running shoe for long runs and walks, you won’t beat the Puma Deviate Nitro 2. These shoes have extra foam cushioning along the midsole to reduce the impact on your joints while propelling you forward with every step. A 6 mm heel-to-toe drop makes each stride an easy transition, while the engineered carbon plate keeps you stable.
The Diviate's wider-than-average, roomy toe box (96.3 mm) provides space for any toe issues, yet is not so wide that it causes chafing or blisters. What makes the Deviate Nitro 2 stand out is its high comfort level despite the carbon plate. Plus, in true Puma fashion, the athletic shoes are breathable, reflective, and grippy for ultimate safety on the roads. Another bonus is the shoe's durability and reasonable pricing, which makes it an excellent investment for anyone needing extra support and comfort for running or long walks.
- Plush cushioning
- Carbon plate for stabilization
- Rocker sole
- Heavier than some others
- Limited color options
- Not waterproof
Colors available: 7 | Sizes available: 5-9.5 in whole and half sizes, 10-12 (Amazon only carries whole sizes) | Best for: Back and joint pain | Athletic style: Walking | Materials: Rubber, foam
OOFOS shoes are designed for supreme comfort and relief from joint and back pain. Instead of high-rebound athletic foam, OOFOS uses materials that absorb impact and rebound slowly to boost workout recovery and soothe joints and muscles after long work days on your feet. The brand claims that its shoes absorb 37% more impact than traditional foam footwear, and based on our own in-house testing we found them to be effective at reducing shock and providing support.
The OOMG Slip-On Sneaker is an easy-on shoe that reduces compressive forces on your joints, making it ideal for those with back pain. The shoes also offer a supportive arch and have the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance. OOFOS website recommends sizing up by half a size for the best fit, but note that half sizes are only available through the OOFOs website.
- Highly cushioned foam
- Easy slip-on design
- Arch support specifically for back and joints
- May run small
- Top may be too tight for some
- No wide-width available
- Not waterproof
Colors available: Gray, black, blue | Sizes available: 7-11.5 in whole and half sizes, 12-15 (available in standard, wide-width, extra-wide-width, and 2X wide-width) | Best for: Diabetic neuropathy | Athletic style: Walking | Materials: Rubber, synthetic materials
Diabetic neuropathy, or nerve damage that is caused by diabetes, can occur in the feet. When that happens, it’s called peripheral neuropathy, and it causes a tingling sensation and a feeling of walking on pins and needles. Sometimes, a loss of pain sensation can lead to sores, calluses, and injuries in the feet that can cause infections and more complications. Studies show that, for those who have diabetes, wearing the correct footwear will help reduce the likelihood of developing these issues.
Orthofeet’s Edgewater Stretch shoes have everything you should look for in shoes for diabetic neuropathy. The shoes are designed with superior orthotic insoles with adjustable arch support, an antimicrobial, non-friction inner lining that prevents sores and infections, comfortable cushioning, and a rocker sole. OrthoFeet is another brand of shoe Dr. Hall considers a great option, but again stresses that the correct fit must be achieved. "There should be space between the end of your longest toe and the end of the shoe," Hall explains.
Orthofeet’s Edgewater Stretch shoes are available in four widths, so you can find the perfect fit to relieve pain and prevent complications from neuropathy or other foot conditions.
- Orthotic insoles with adjustable arch support
- Additional heel padding
- Soft non-irritating inner liner
- Large range of wide-width sizing
- May not be grippy enough for wet days
Colors available: 11 | Sizes available: 5-12 in whole and half sizes (wide-width available) | Best for: Wide feet and joint pain | Athletic style: Walking and running | Materials: Rubber mesh
If you have wide feet and need a shoe that’s specifically designed to prevent and relieve pain, the Kuru Atom Athletic Sneaker is designed with extra cushioning in the heel and midsole for just that. These breathable mesh shoes are perfect for workouts, walks, and everyday wear for anyone with wide feet and prone to foot or joint pain. The design is flexible but supportive, with a deep heel cup that hugs your foot. With a range of sizes in regular and wide fits, the Atom also has a wide toe box for the best anatomical fit that prevents issues such as bunions, hammer toe, and pinched nerves — conditions that can be more common for those with wide feet. Plus, the brand makes a waterproof version of the shoe, especially for rainy conditions, a great choice for those who plan to wear these shoes daily.
- Arch supporting insoles
- Plush cushioning in heel and midsole
- Deep heel cup and wide toe box
- Includes a waterproof style
- May take time to break in
Factors to consider when choosing orthopedic shoes
Fit: Fit: The correct fit is crucial to ensure comfort. Wearing shoes that are too big, too small or too narrow can lead to a host of issues, such as slipping, back pain, arch pain and chafing. To ensure the perfect fit, measure your feet at the end of the day since this is when your feet are generally the largest due to fluid retention throughout the day. "Make sure the shoe is wide enough. Many people would benefit from a wider shoe but very few people purchase one," says Hall.
Cushion sole: A cushioned sole will noticeably relieve pain and impact on joints, feet and your back, as well as provide shock absorption. However, there still needs to be a firm level of arch support, more than those from inserts, for those with painful conditions such as plantar fasciitis.
Toe box: A wide toe box will ward off issues such as pinched nerves, bunions and hammer toe due to being more anatomically correct. Generally, you should always look for shoes with a wide enough toe box to suit your feet. There should be space between the end of your longest toe and the end of the shoe.
Cost: Budget is always a big factor, and orthopedic shoes are not cheap. To get your money's worth, make sure you purchase shoes built to last and that are made of durable materials and aren’t too “off the moment” in terms of style. You’ll want something timeless that you’ll wear for years to come..
Style: Plenty of stylish orthopedic shoe options are available. To get the most bang for your buck, look for a style and color that will suit your overall wardrobe, including your work clothes and casual wear.
How we chose
We researched 32 top-rated orthopedic shoes offering pain relief, arch support, and superior materials and construction while also ensuring each pair is aligned with our expert’s recommendations on what to look for in a good orthopedic shoe — such as the fit, cushion sole and toe box design. We gave preference to those that were of the highest quality, received glowing reviews and didn't cost an arm and a leg. We lastly consulted with experts to ensure our final list of winners was, in fact, a roundup of the very best orthopedic shoes. After reviewing dozens of footwear options, we ended up honing on the select few styles we felt were the most within reach for the widest number of people based on budget, sizing, foot concerns they solved for, and what activities they were best worn during.
Other orthopedic shoes we've tested
When researching and testing shoes, we first wanted to find orthopedic shoes that were more than just functional; we wanted to find the most stylish options so people would want to wear the shoes out of the house. Shoes that looked like your mother's orthopedic shoes were immediately removed from the list. We then prioritized quality and comfort while also considering budget. While Drew Tour orthopedic shoes are fantastic, they cost close to $200, which is why we decided to strike them from the list as well. We also gave a few of Amazon's orthopedic shoe offerings a try, but felt that some of the claims didn't live up to the hype or price.
FAQs
What are orthopedic shoes?
While they historically haven’t been the most stylish of footwear, orthopedic shoes play an important role in your overall health. What sets orthopedic shoes apart from regular shoes is the tailored design to support and protect feet with extra support, comfort, and functionality, Egbogah says. Studies show orthopedic shoes can significantly relieve and prevent foot, joint and back pain, allowing you to feel and function better. Egbogah tells AOL that “Orthopedic shoes are footwear designed with therapeutic features that support the feet, address specific foot disorders, and provide comfort."
How do I know if I need orthopedic shoes?
At the most basic level, Egbogah tells us, “If you find it uncomfortable to walk barefoot, that’s a good indicator that you need more support, and orthopedic shoes can provide just that,” she says. People with chronic foot conditions, back pain and diabetic neuropathy will also greatly benefit from wearing orthopedic shoes. As always, speaking with your healthcare provider is recommended when feeling any discomfort or pain.
Do I need a prescription for orthopedic shoes?
No, you do not need a prescription for orthopedic shoes. That said, when choosing your first pair of orthopedic shoes, it's a good idea to go to a store in your area so you can have a professional help you find the perfect fit for you, including a shoe that is not too narrow. If you have severe foot pain, it’s worth consulting your doctor about what the cause might be and if orthopedic shoes are right for you.
What conditions do orthopedic shoes help with?
The better question might be, “What conditions do orthopedic shoes not help with?” Orthopedic shoes are designed to help with all types of foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis, overpronation, supination or “underpronation,”, heel spurs, diabetes, metatarsalgia, hammer toe, arthritis, knee pain, hip pain, and back pain. Thanks to the wide toe box, orthopedic shoes can also prevent issues like pinched nerves, bunions, chaffing and prevent infections.
How do orthopedic shoes work?
Orthopedic shoes work to help prevent and treat osteoarthritis — wear and tear on your joints — by improving your overall alignment and how you walk. “With features such as orthotic insoles and rocker soles, our body functions more efficiently and endures less wear and tear,” says Egbogah. These features prevent further damage and eliminate or reduce pain and discomfort when you stand and walk. “Orthopedic shoes address movement dysfunctions that lead to foot problems and can also be used proactively to slow down the degeneration of weight-bearing joints in our body,” explains Egbogah.
Meet our experts
Dr. Austin A Hall, board-certified foot and ankle surgeon
Dr. Nelya Lobkova, board-certified surgical podiatrist
MDr. Melissa Boyette, board-certified orthopedic surgeon
Dave Candy, PT, DPT, OCS, ATC, FAAOMPT
Liza Egbogah, BSc, DC, DOMP
Dr. Stephen J. Wallace, board-certified orthopedic trauma and deformity specialist
Dr. Jennifer Woods, board-certified orthopedic surgeon
