The right shoes can help keep your feet healthy and pain-free. You want shoes that support and cushion your feet, and that fit well. Make sure to get them measured before buying a new pair, especially if you spend a lot of time on your feet. Also, if you’re prone to low back pain or arthritis, you’ll want to wear a shoe that has arch support and flexibility.
In general, women with diabetes should choose sophisticated shoes with a low heel and good arch support. Flats are fine if they have a thick enough sole. Ankle boots are great for colder weather. Despite what you might think, sandals can provide much-needed support. Sketchers, for example, makes incredibly comfortable sandals with a sole similar to athletic shoes.
If you have wide feet, you may want to purchase a shoe that has a wider fit. A shoe that’s too narrow may not be supportive enough and cause squished feet. Ask your podiatrist about the proper fit. If you’re not sure, try walking around in the shoes you’re considering buying.
While there’s no perfect shoe, the right style will be comfortable and support your feet. If your feet are flat, you’ll want to avoid shoes with elevated heels and tapered toe boxes. If your feet are flat, choose shoes with a flat toe box and zero-drop. You can add arch support insoles for added comfort. Insoles such as Tread Labs’ Pace are ideal for this purpose. They come in different arch heights and provide extra support.