Whether you like super bright or neutral colored shoes, your arthritis shouldn't interfere with your style choices. (Hoka)
There's no sugarcoating it: Having arthritis in your feet is a major drag. After all, the chronic condition causes joint pain and inflammation, which can make it difficult to go about your life as usual. But the best shoes for arthritic feet can make a difference in how you feel.
If you have arthritis, know that you're not alone. Up to 18.9% of American adults have some form of arthritis, and it's common to have the condition in your feet. That said, the right footwear can help. Choosing the right sneakers, sandals or slippers can deliver much-needed comfort while helping to improve your mobility. "Typically, the biggest issue with someone who has arthritis in their feet is that they can develop a bump where the arthritis is, which makes traditional shoe gear feel too tight," Dr. Melissa Lockwood, a podiatrist at Heartland Foot and Ankle Associates in Bloomington, Ill., tells Yahoo Life.
As with all health conditions, foot arthritis has a range of symptoms, and not everyone experiences them the same way, says Dr. Richard Graves, a podiatrist at Sol Foot & Ankle Centers in Long Beach, Calif. The biggest key is getting the right fit. "People with arthritic feet may have to look for wide shoes, shoes made out of stretchy or conforming materials or even extra-depth shoes," he says. "Besides that, the amount of support and stability is very important. Usually one of the goals with arthritic feet is to limit foot motion as much as possible."
Shoes with stretchy fabrics or adjustable features like velcro straps or laces that can be loosened can help, shares Ashley Rawlins, a physical therapist at Origin in Dallas. "You may also want to consider shoes with a slightly larger toe box so that your foot has space for swelling, without being at risk for compression," she adds.
Doctors stress the importance of finding the best shoes for foot arthritis. "I've seen how the right footwear can make a substantial difference in patient outcomes when dealing with orthopedic issues," Dr. Robert McLaughlin, an orthopedic surgeon at Boston Concierge Orthopedics, tells Yahoo Life.
To better understand the needs of people with arthritic feet, our team spoke with four experts across a range of specialties who treat individuals with the condition. We also researched the market to better understand available options, as well as which products can help meet those needs. With that in mind, these are the best shoes for arthritic feet, whether you're in search of a running sneaker, dressy shoe or something in between.
Update, June 2, 2025: We checked all product prices and availability. Our No. 1 pick for the best shoe for arthritic feet was updated because our previous pick, the Kizik Roamer, has been discontinued.
There are several features to keep in mind when shopping for shoes for arthritic feet. Experts suggest considering:
Support and cushioning: "The best shoe for a patient with arthritis is one that has a supportive bottom and a very soft upper part of the shoe that would allow for any swelling," Lockwood says. Arch support and extra cushioning in the midsole and shoes can also be helpful.
Fit and comfort: A wide toe box is ideal. "Wide toe boxes give toes room to move," McLaughlin says.
Stability and motion control: Every foot and gait is different, but you may benefit from features that control overpronation or supination, which can make arthritis pain worse.
Adjustability: It's usually helpful to have adjustable features. Those can include lace-up closures, Velcro straps or adjustable buckles to customize your fit and allow extra room in case of swelling. If you prefer a slip-on style, look for shoes with a soft and stretchy upper.
Breathability: Moisture-wicking materials can help keep your feet dry and prevent fungal growth. They also lower the risk your feet (and shoes) will stink at the end of the day.
Lightweight design: A lightweight shoe is ideal to lower the risk you'll develop fatigue and strain on your joints.
Heel height: A low to moderate heel height of less than 1.5 inches is often ideal to to maintain proper foot alignment.
To choose the best shoes for arthritic feet, we consulted with four experts across a range of medical disciplines. These include podiatrists Lockwood and Graves; physical therapist Rawlins; and orthopedic surgeon McLaughlin.
After receiving the experts' input, we reviewed dozens of products and evaluated each for elements like materials, support, cushioning, toe box size, weight and adjustability. Because everyone's feet are different and symptoms for arthritis can vary, we carefully analyzed reviews from real customers to see how these shoes perform in the real world, over time. Author Korin Miller is a health and commerce writer with more than a decade of experience reviewing footwear.
If you have arthritis, it's important to look for special features in your shoes. However, you don't necessarily need special arthritic shoes. "People with arthritic feet really only need 'special' shoes if the arthritis is severe and/or causing a major deformity," Graves says. "Shoe considerations may have to be made if the arthritis necessitates using a brace or special insole."
Yes, the right shoes can help with arthritis pain in your feet. They can also lower the risk of issues in the future. "Comfortable, supportive shoes can help preclude the need for surgery down the road," Lockwood says. Graves agrees. "Proper shoes and insoles can play a key role in helping to control foot arthritis pain," he says. "The proper orthotic or shoe insert can also be very helpful."
There are a few features to consider in shoes when you have arthritis. Look for shoes with a roomy toe box and flexibility, whether through laces or a stretchy upper, to accommodate swelling in your feet, Lockwood says. A lightweight design is also helpful to avoid straining your joints.
Lockwood recommends trying to time when you get fitted for shoes. "The best time to get fitted is in the afternoon when feet are most swollen," she says. It's also a good idea to have a cushioning pair of socks on for additional comfort.
Yes, orthotics can be helpful if you have arthritis in your feet. "Orthotics can be very helpful to make a shoe more supportive and fit for your feet," Rawlins says. "There are over-the-counter and custom-made options that can provide additional support to the arches and joints in your feet, so that pressure can be distributed more evenly, without creating pain or limiting the helpful mechanics of your feet."
Dr. Melissa Lockwood, a podiatrist at Heartland Foot and Ankle Associates in Bloomington, Ill.
Dr. Richard Graves, a podiatrist at Sol Foot & Ankle Centers in Long Beach, Calif.
Ashley Rawlins, a physical therapist at Origin in Dallas
Dr. Robert McLaughlin, an orthopedic surgeon at Boston Concierge Orthopedics
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.