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The best orthopedic shoes in 2024, according to experts
Foot, hip, back and knee pain can all be caused by poorly fitting or unsupportive shoes. Certain types of shoes contribute more to pain than others — think high heels and dress shoes — but ill-fitting sneakers or tennis shoes can also impact pain and cause plantar fasciitis if they don't fit correctly. The best orthopedic shoes or custom orthotics can make your feet more comfortable and minimize pain while walking, running or hiking. Shoes that have memory foam can cushion your foot while you step, too. However, if you're diabetic or have underlying health issues, make sure you check with your doctor and see if there are additional considerations when choosing a pair of orthopedic shoes.
A recent study of 1,681 participants found that up to 72% wore incorrectly sized footwear. Additionally, the study also found that adults, seniors and those with diabetes were 81% more likely to wear shoes that were too narrow. That's a lot of people walking around with a poor gait cycle! Dr. Austin A. Hall, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon, tells us that the gait cycle — which encompasses both your stance and swing — can be influenced negatively if any part of it is out of sync. "The gait cycle involves the entire body and especially the lower half. Wearing appropriate, supportive shoes can indirectly help prevent pain by maintaining a normal gait cycle," says Hall.
If you feel you are one of those people, you've come to the right place. And we have good news for you: Orthopedic shoes aren't ugly anymore! Today's orthopedic shoes are nothing like your mother's. Even the dress shoe wearers are in for a treat.
To help find the best orthopedic shoes on the market in every style, we spoke with podiatrists, surgeons, and physical therapists to better understand what to look for in a good orthopedic shoe and how to ensure the best fit. The AOL team then researched and tested more than 30 orthopedic shoes in various styles ranging from walking shoes to dress shoes and even orthopedic shoes with heels — yes, they do exist! Keep reading to see which nine made the cut as the best orthopedic shoe for every style, sport and occasion.
The best orthopedic shoes of 2024
Colors available: White, yellow, gray, black | Sizes available: Women’s: 6-9 in whole and half sizes for 10, 11 (wide available) Men’s: 8-13 whole sizes only (wide available) | Best for: Hammer toe, plantar fasciitis, overpronation, bunions | Athletic style: Walking | Materials: Leather
Inspired by the walking culture in New York City, the Klaw 528 was designed in partnership with one of the city’s most prominent podiatrists, Nelya Lobkova, DPM, to alleviate conditions such as hammer toe, plantar fasciitis, overpronation, bunions and other foot and joint issues. Klaw's entire line of footwear delivers incredibly supportive and comfortable shoes to ensure all-day orthopedic support, whether walking on city streets or working on your feet for long days.
The 528 orthopedic shoe has a deep, supportive heel cup, medial and lateral arch support, and a rocker outsole—a feature Liza Egbogah, a chiropractor and osteopath, recommends for anyone needing orthotic shoes. Plenty of cushioning in the midsole means less chance of developing plantar fasciitis and immediately reduces pain for those who already suffer from the painful condition.
The women’s Klaw 528 runs a bit wide and may not have a narrow enough heel for some women. A wider heel paired with the deep heel cup could lead to heel pain and rubbing for those with narrow feet.
- Heel to forefoot cushioning
- Water-resistant leather
- Firm arch support
- Runs wide
- Heavier shoe
Colors available: White; cream white | Sizes available: 5-9.5 in whole and half sizes; 10-13 (wide 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. Having high arches, incorrect pronation (the way your foot lands and distributes the impact inward or outward), 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. 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 Skipper slip-on loafer.
- Corrects pronation that causes plantar fasciitis
- EVA foam cushioning
- Arch support
- Limited colors
Colors available: Black, brown, navy (red available on Amazon) | Sizes available: 6-12 (No half sizes; wide 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. And while high heels and narrow-toe boxes are never recommended for those needing supportive shoes, today, stylish and streamlined orthopedic shoes are available. Dansko’s Fawna Mary Jane shoes are a great example of a fashionable orthopedic shoe. The Fawna shoe is made of soft, attractive, stain-resistant leather in classic colors (Black, brown, navy) that match any outfit. These shoes have removable EVA footbeds, a comfy shock-absorbing material Dr. Egbogah recommends for cushioning each step you take, with special ergonomic insoles that 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
- Stiff toe and opening may be uncomfortable for some until broken in
- may not have 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: 6.5-11.5 in whole and half sizes, 12-16 (wide available) | Best for: Heel spurs, overpronation, stability | Athletic style: Walking, all-day wear | Materials: Rubber, leather
Attractive, stylish design and superior quality materials and craftsmanship make Cole Haan Wingtip Oxford shoes stand above the rest, but 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.
This sale is outstanding and may not last long.
- Cushioned comfort
- Superior materials
- Lightweight athletic feel
- May run narrow
- Stiff and will take time to break in
Colors available: 16+ | Sizes available: Women’s: 5-10.5 in whole and half sizes, 11-12 (wide available) Men’s: 7-12.5 in whole and half sizes, 13-16 (wide and x-wide available) | Best for: Diabetic neuropathy, heel spurs, overall foot health | Athletic style: Running | Materials: Rubber, synthetic materials
You may have noticed that Hoka walking shoes seem to have sprung out of nowhere and are 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.
While it is not technically an orthopedic walking shoe, it does have The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, which recognizes products that benefit foot health. Moreover, the Bondi 8 features three of Dr. Egbogah’s recommendations when choosing orthopedic 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
- Clunky look and feel
- Not stable enough for strength training or hiking
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, 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.
- Plush cushioning
- Carbon plate for stabilization
- Rocker sole
- Heavier than some others
- limited color options
Colors available: 6 | 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
Another shoe brand that sprung from nowhere and can now be found everywhere is OOFOS.
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. According to the brand, its shoes absorb 37% more impact than traditional foam footwear.
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.
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
Colors available: Gray, black, blue | Sizes available: 7-11.5 in whole and half sizes, 12-15 (available in standard, wide, xwide, and xxwide) | 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 (peripheral neuropathy), causing a tingling sensation and a feeling of walking on pins and needles. (OUCH!) 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 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 anti-microbial, non-friction inner lining that prevents sores and infections, comfortable cushioning, and a rocker sole. OrthoFeet are 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
- May not be grippy enough for wet days
Colors available: 11 | Sizes available: 5-12 in whole and half sizes (wide available) | Best for: Wide feet and joint pain | Athletic style: Walking and running | Materials: Rubber mesh
The Kuru Atom Athletic Sneaker is designed specifically to prevent and relieve pain with extra cushioning in the heel and midsole. 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.
- Arch supporting insoles
- Plush cushioning in heel and midsole
- Deep heel cup and wide toe box
- May take time to break in
Sock styles: No-show; crew; full calf | Sizes: Men's and Women's S-XL | Best for: Plantar fasciitis | Athletic style: Walking, running | Materials: Wool
AOL's health editor is always singing the praises of the OS1st brand of compression and sports socks. The company specializes in high-quality medical-grade socks for just about every foot condition (plantar fasciitis, bunion, diabetic and others). The FS4 plantar fasciitis socks are designed with OS1st's patented Compression Zone Technology®, anti-bacterial fabric, and Y-Gore heel for anatomical shape, including a left/right design for the perfect fit (a little R/L at the tow of the sock lets you know which foot).
Sock styles: No-show; crew; full calf | Sizes: Men's and Women's S-XL | Best for: Diabetic neuropathy, sensitive feet | Athletic style: Walking, running, hiking | Materials: Polyester, acrylic, nylon, Spandex
Again topping the charts is OS1st with its WP4 Wellness Performance Socks. These socks are ideal for diabetics and sensitive feet thanks to the diabetic-safe bamboo charcoal ionized fibers that make the socks not only incredibly soft, but promote healthy feet via circulation support to prevent edema, or excessive swelling. The sWP4s also feature micro-nylon treated with silver-ion technology to keep feet dry and prevent odor, while the Y-Gore heel prevents the sock from slipping, while the seamless construction and left/right design provide 360-degree blister protection.
Factors to consider when choosing orthopedic shoes
Fit: The correct fit is crucial to ensure comfort. Wearing shoes that are too big or wide 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 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.
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 for what the best orthopedic shoe should feature. We gave preference to those that were of the highest quality, received glowing reviews, didn't cost and arm and a leg, and last consulted with experts to ensure our final list of winners was, in fact, a roundup of the very best orthopedic shoes.
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. So, the shoes that first came to mind when you thought of your mother's orthopedic shoes were stricken off the list. We then prioritized quality and comfort while also considering budget. So, while Drew Tour orthopedic shoes are fantastic, at close to $200, we decided to strike the shoes from the list as well. We also gave a few of Amazon's orthopedic shoe offerings a try, but felt that some of the claimes didn't live up to the hype or price. Last, while we all love a good slip-on shoe, we couldn't find any that felt stable enough to recommend due to fear of the foot coming out of the footbed of the shoe while walking. When you're trekking miles on vacation, the last thing you need is an ill-fitting shoe your heel regularly slips out of.
Orthopedic shoes FAQs
What are orthopedic shoes?
Shoe-style aside, 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." What sets orthopedic shoes apart from regular shoes is the tailored design to support and protect feet with extra support, comfort, and functionality, she adds.
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.
What conditions do orthopedic shoes help with?
Orthopedic shoes are designed to help with various foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis, 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: “Osteoarthritis is essentially wear and tear on the joints, which can be slowed down by wearing supportive footwear that improves alignment,” says Egbogah. “With features such as orthotic insoles and rocker soles, our body functions more efficiently and endures less wear and tear,” preventing further damage and eliminating or reducing pain and discomfort. “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
Dr. Patrick Dermarkarian, board-certifiedorthopedic spine surgeon
Liza Egbogah, BSc, DC, DOMP
Dr. Stephen J. Wallace, board-certified orthopedic trauma and deformity specialist
Dr. Jennifer Woods, board-certified orthopedic surgeon
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