Best Shoes for Adults with Diabetes: What to Look For
When you have diabetes, choosing the right shoes is about much more than style. Comfortable, well-fitting footwear can make a real difference to your everyday life, helping reduce pressure, improve comfort and support healthy feet.
Many adults living with diabetes experience changes such as swelling, reduced sensation (peripheral neuropathy), or reduced flexibility, making it harder to find shoes that feel comfortable from morning until night.
Fortunately, there are plenty of footwear options designed with comfort, accessibility and support in mind.
At Special.Shoes, we stock a carefully selected range of footwear from trusted brands including Billy Footwear, Friendly Shoes and Skechers, making it easier to find shoes that suit your lifestyle and your feet.
Why Footwear Matters if You Have Diabetes
Diabetes can affect the feet in several ways.
Some people experience:
- Reduced feeling in their feet (peripheral neuropathy)
- Swollen feet or ankles
- Changes in circulation
- Foot shape changes over time
- Difficulty bending to put shoes on
Because reduced sensation can make it harder to notice rubbing or pressure, wearing well-fitting footwear becomes especially important.
The goal is to choose shoes that are comfortable from the moment you put them on and continue to feel supportive throughout the day.
What Features Should You Look For?
Rather than searching for one particular brand, it's often more helpful to understand which features make shoes more comfortable.
A Comfortable, Roomy Fit
Shoes should allow your toes to move naturally without feeling tight.
Wide fit and extra-depth styles can often provide additional comfort, particularly if your feet swell during the day.
Easy to Put On
Many adults with diabetes also experience reduced flexibility, arthritis or limited mobility.
Shoes that open wide or feature wraparound zips, Velcro fastenings or hands-free designs can make getting dressed much easier while reducing unnecessary strain.
Soft, Supportive Uppers
Flexible materials help reduce pressure across the top of the foot and can improve overall comfort during long periods of wear.
Cushioned Soles
Good cushioning helps absorb everyday impact while providing greater comfort when walking or standing.
Secure Fastenings
Whether it's adjustable laces, Velcro straps or zip openings, shoes should stay securely in place without creating uncomfortable pressure points.
Footwear Brands Available at Special.Shoes
Everyone's needs are different, which is why there's no single "best" shoe for diabetes.
Instead, Special.Shoes offers a variety of brands with features that many adults appreciate.
Billy Footwear
Billy shoes are known for their innovative wraparound zip opening, making them much easier to put on while maintaining the appearance of everyday trainers.
Friendly Shoes
Friendly Shoes feature wide-opening designs and easy fastenings that can be particularly helpful for adults who struggle with mobility, swollen feet or bending down.
Skechers
Many Skechers styles offer lightweight cushioning, supportive midsoles and comfortable uppers. Selected models also feature Slip-ins technology, making them easier to put on without bending.
Tips for Buying Shoes if You Have Diabetes
When shopping for new footwear:
- Measure your feet regularly, as size can change over time.
- Try shoes on later in the day when your feet may be slightly larger.
- Check for pressure points before wearing them for long periods.
- Wear the socks you normally use when trying on shoes.
- Replace worn footwear before it loses support.
If you've been prescribed specialist diabetic footwear or custom orthotics, always follow your healthcare professional's advice.
Finding the Right Pair
The best shoe is the one that fits your feet properly and suits your daily routine.
Some people prioritise easy access, while others need additional width, lightweight cushioning or space for orthotics.
With a wide selection of accessible footwear from Billy Footwear, Friendly Shoes, Skechers and other trusted brands, Special.Shoes makes it easier to find shoes that combine comfort with everyday style.
FAQs
What shoes are best for adults with diabetes?
The best shoes fit well, provide adequate cushioning, minimise pressure points and are comfortable enough to wear throughout the day. If you have diabetic foot complications, seek advice from your diabetes healthcare team before choosing footwear.
Are wide fit shoes better for diabetes?
Many adults find wide fit shoes more comfortable, particularly if they experience swelling or prefer additional toe room.
Are easy-on shoes good for people with diabetes?
Easy-on shoes can make daily dressing simpler, especially for people with reduced flexibility or mobility, while helping avoid unnecessary pressure when putting shoes on.
Can I wear trainers if I have diabetes?
Many adults with diabetes wear trainers successfully, provided they fit properly, offer good support and don't create rubbing or pressure.
Where can I buy comfortable shoes for diabetes?
Special.Shoes offers a carefully selected range of comfortable footwear, including easy-on, wide fit and supportive styles from trusted brands to suit a variety of needs.