7 Best Diabetic Sneakers for Diabetes & Neuropathy in 2021
Good diabetic sneakers are rare gems! Have a quick look at the classic diabetic footwear companies’ websites, and you’ll understand. Old-fashioned, ugly, leather, and velcro house shoes dominate the selection. Athletic performant shoes for people with diabetes? Almost nothing.
Fortunately, things are changing, and orthopedic shoe brands have understood that physical exercise (and fashion!) are part of every diabetic’s life. It is a paradigm shift: Instead of advising a lot of rest for the feet, doctors increasingly advise patients to exercise more – even running with neuropathy (or at least longer walks and hikes) is possible depending on the condition of your feet. Still: Choices for athletic shoes are limited.
So, to help you make an intelligent purchase decision, here’s a selection of seven quality, comfortable and protective sneakers for diabetes and neuropathy in 2021.
Table of Contents
Best Sneakers for People with Diabetes and Neuropathy
As usual, I’ve conducted my investigation and interviewed podiatrists, diabetes nurses, and diabetic patients about the best sneakers for people with diabetes and neuropathy. Here are the seven sneakers that were most recommended (by far!):
Best for Men: Orthofeet Sprint Tie-less Athletic Diabetic Sneakers
Orthofeet Sprint Men's Diabetic Sneakers: Pros
- Specially designed for people with diabetes, neuropathy, plantar fasciitis & heel pain
- Qualify for Medicare reimbursement as diabetic shoes (Code A5500)
- Non-binding design promoting blood circulation
- Ergonomic sole & anatomical arch support
- Foam-padded & seam-free interior to prevent blisters & frictions
- Breathable & moisture-wicking premium quality fabric
- Tie-less lace system - easy to fasten & unfasten
- Heel strap for enhanced rear foot support
- Premium orthotic insoles included (with $40)
- Very good shock absorption
- Extended widths available (medium - wide - extra-wide)
- Fitting spacers included
- 60-days wear test & 100% money back guarantee
Orthofeet is USA’s #1 orthopedic footwear company for people living with diabetes and neuropathy foot problems. Foot experts design its shoes, extremely comfortable, protective, premium quality, durable, and recommended by podiatrists. The Sprint Tie-less is the company’s most sold diabetic sneaker model for men. It’s been on the market for years, and customers have always been grateful for its reviews.
The design is non-binding and made to avoid any pressure points on your feet while promoting improved blood flow. The toe box is wide enough so your toes can move. The shoe interior is foam-padded and seam-free, preventing blisters and skin irritation. They come with Orthofeet’s premium orthotic insoles offering strong arch support, unsurpassed cushioning and excellent shock absorption, and fitting spacers so you can find the perfect customizable fit.
The innovative tie-less lace system allows you to fasten, unfasten and tighten your sneakers very quickly, which is immensely valuable if you have difficulties bending down. The additional heel straps provide good rear foot support for excellent foot stability.
Orthofeet is a trustable brand and offers a 60-day wear test, so you can send your sneakers back if you don’t like them!
Orthofeet Sprint Men's Diabetic Sneakers: Pros
- The price. Orthofeet's diabetic shoes are the best, but they come at a higher price
- Not machine washable
More Diabetic Sneakers for Men from Orthofeet
Orthofeet offers a selection of 10+ orthopedic sneakers for men living with diabetes and neuropathy foot problems.
Best for Women: Orthofeet Coral Stretchable Diabetic Sneakers
Orthofeet Coral Women's Diabetic Sneakers: Pros
- Specially designed for people with diabetes, neuropathy, plantar fasciitis & heel pain
- Qualify for Medicare reimbursement as diabetic shoes (Code A5500)
- Best sneakers for sore and sensitive feet
- Non-constricting design to boost blood flow
- Stretchable fabric puts no pressure at all on your feet
- Anatomical arch support & patented cushioning system
- Protective interior with extra-padding all around
- Moisture-wicking and breathable
- Wider toe box for extra room
- Extended widths available (medium - wide - extra-wide)
- Premium orthotic insoles included (with $40)
- Extremely lightweight sneakers
- Fitting spacers included
- 60-days wear test & 100% money-back guarantee
Again, Orthofeet wins the match in the women’s sneakers category. The orthopedic footwear company offers no less than ten models of diabetic sneakers for women, among which the Coral Stretch Knit is the best seller. These trainers are professionally created to provide ultimate comfort to sore and sensitive feet. They’re ideal for women suffering from diabetes-related foot problems or neuropathy.
The fabric is entirely stretchable, and the design is non-binding at all. It’s non-constricting footwear that helps promote your blood circulation, which is particularly important if you have neuropathy. The interior is very protective, foam-padded, and seamless, so there’s no friction on your skin.
There’s extra cushioning under the heel for better shock absorption and foot motion. The included premium insoles are removable so that you can insert your orthotics. They provide good anatomical arch support and several layers of cushioning. These sneakers also come with removable fitting spacers to help you find the perfect fit.
The breathable and moisture-wicking fabric keeps your feet in a healthy environment preventing fungus and bacteria. Available in extended widths, Orthofeet Coral sneakers are ideal if you have wider feet or suffer from swollen feet or edema.
Last but not least, the company offers a 60-day wear test, free returns, and a 100% money-back guarantee.
Orthofeet Coral Women's Diabetic Sneakers: Cons
- The price. Orthofeet's diabetic shoes are the best, but they come at a higher price
- Not machine washable
More Women's Diabetic Sneakers from Orthofeet
Orthofeet offers a selection of 10+ orthopedic sneakers for women living with diabetes and neuropathy foot problems.
New Balance Diabetic Sneakers - Medicare eligible Shoes (A5500)
New Balance Diabetic Sneakers: Pros
- Medicare eligible for reimbursement as diabetic shoes (Code A5500)
- Less expensive than other diabetic trainers
- Hook & Loop design for easy insertion
- RollBar Stability post system to control rear foot and provide great support
- Well-cushioned all around and very comfortable
- Lightweight foam midsole
- 100% leather adjustable uppers
- Available in different widths
- Free shipping and free returns on Amazon
- 85% satisfied customers (5+4 star reviews)
More New Balance Diabetic Sneakers
The leading footwear company offers a wide range of sneakers officially approved by Medicare for reimbursement under the PDAC Medicare Part B of the Therapeutic Shoe Bill. Be careful, though: not all New Balance shoes are eligible. If a New Balance shoe fulfills the diabetic shoes Medicare requirements, it is specified on the product description with the code A5500.
The 813 V1 Hook & Loop walking shoes are approved and meet all the requirements to qualify as diabetic shoes. They’re well cushioned and protective. The uppers are adjustable, so you’re sure they won’t be too tight and constrict your feet.
They bring incredible stability when walking, thanks to a stable construction that controls your rear foot while improving traction. These shoes are very lightweight and offer good arch support.
It’s a good choice for people with diabetes or neuropathy and looking for comfortable protective sneakers at a reasonable price.
New Balance Sneakers for Diabetes: Cons
- New Balance is not an orthotic footwear company. You don't get as much technical features as in Orthofeet or Apex shoes.
- The insoles are not removable. You can't accommodate your own orthotics.
Apex Performance Athletic Sneakers for Diabetes & Neuropathy, Men & Women
Apex Athletic Sneakers for Diabetes: Pros
- Specially designed for people with diabetes, neuropathy, plantar fasciitis & heel pain
- Qualify for Medicare reimbursement as diabetic shoes (Code A5500)
- Stretchable uppers so there's no pressure on your foot
- Slip-on construction - easy to put on and off
- Rigid heel counter so your rear foot is stable
- Supportive yet very lightweight diabetic sneakers
- Breathable & moisture-wicking fabric
- Available in 3 different widths: medium, wide and x-wide
- Removable depth included so you find the perfect fit
- Meets PDAC certification requirements
- Free shipping & Free 30-days return policy
Apex is one of my favorite orthotic footwear brands, and podiatrists often recommend it. From the extensive catalog of diabetic sneakers, I’ve chosen the company’s brand new model: the Athletic Performance Sneakers.
Extremely lightweight yet extraordinarily supportive, they’re ideal wear for sport and outdoor activities, as well as for daily walks around the city. The design is primarily thought to improve traction and foot stability. The tie-less system lets you put your shoes on and off without bending down for too long.
The fabric is stretchable, so the trainers put no pressure points on your feet and never block your blood circulation. Breathable and moisture-wicking, your feet will stay dry and healthy inside.
They’re available in 3 different widths and come with a removable insole and fitting spacers so you can make adjustments and customize the fit.
Apex Performance Athletic sneakers are currently on sale! Plus, you benefit from a 30-day free return policy if you don’t like them.
Apex Athletic Sneakers for Diabetes: Cons
- The price. Apex is a real orthotic footwear company and its shoes are pricy (but durable!)
- Not machine washable
More Diabetes and Neuropathy Sneakers from Apex
ApexFoot has a selection of 20+ sneakers for diabetes and neuropathy.
Dr. Comfort Therapeutic Extra-Depth Diabetic Sneakers
Dr. Comfort Therapeutic Sneakers: Pros
- Dr. Comfort is one of the best therapeutic footwear company for diabetic feet
- Non-binding and adjustable design does prevent blood circulation
- Seamless construction prevents blisters and irritation
- Extra-depth shoes: ideal for sensitive, aching, swollen feet, edema
- Easy to adjust toggle tie-less closure
- Arch stabiliser providing good support and stability
- Dr. Comfort Gel Plus therapeutic insoles included (removable)
- Ultra lightweight athletic shoes
- Leather & mesh fabric: more lightweight & breathable than leather only
- Different width options: medium, wide and extra-wide
Dr. Comfort Therapeutic shoes are specially designed for people with foot problems related to diabetes and neuropathy. The company makes excellent protective designs to improve blood circulation, provide enhanced comfort and protect your feet.
These Therapeutic Diabetic Athletic shoes are a great choice. They come at a higher price, but they’re made with premium quality durable material and make the difference in comfort and protection.
It’s a tie-less closure system that’s easy to put on and off and to readjust as the days go by and our feet swell. The outsole is thick and shock-absorbing, and the insoles are premium-quality removable orthotics. Every part of the shoe interior is appropriately padded and cushioned.
The arch support is good, and an added arch stabilizer improves foot support and stability. The fabric mixes pure leather and meshes for better breathability and moisture-wicking properties. Check out Dr. Comfort’s catalog for more models!
More Dr. Comfort Athletic Shoes for Diabetes & Neuropathy:
Dr. Comfort Therapeutic Sneakers: Cons
- The price. Dr. Comfort shoes are among the most expensive diabetic shoes.
- Not machine washable.
Propét LifeWalker Strap Sneakers - Medicare-approved Shoes
Propét Diabetic Walking Shoes: Pros
- Medicare eligible for reimbursement as diabetic shoes (Code A5500)
- Adjustable velcro strap closure does not bind the top of your foot
- Fully padded shoe lining and footbed for ultimate comfort
- Great arch support - Helps with plantar fasciitis pain
- Removable insoles so you can insert your own orthotics
- Available in 5 different widths: narrow, regular, wide, xx-wide, xxx-wide
- Thick rubber sole
- Premium quality leather & durable shoe material
- Best customers reviews on Amazon for "diabetic sneakers"
- Free shipping and free returns on Amazon
Propét shoes are now well famous in the diabetic footwear category. The company specializes in designing multiple widths of shoes. Each shoe model from Propét is available in 5 different widths, allowing for better fit, and is quite valuable for people with diabetes or neuropathy. Remember that the most important thing is that your shoes do not constrict your ankles or block your blood circulation.
Propét LifeWalker Strap Sneakers are an excellent choice to protect your diabetic or neuropathic feet. Medicare approves them under the Therapeutic Shoe Bill (Code A5500), so you may claim reimbursement.
The adjustable upper velcro closure makes it easy to find the perfect fit and to readjust as the day goes by and your feet swell. The rear foot is well supported and stabilized. These shoes are made to keep your feet on long-distance walks.
The trainer’s interior is appropriately lined and cushioned, so it’s non-irritative and helps prevent blisters. The toe box is vast, and your toes have room to keep moving. The insoles are extra cushioned and provide enhanced arch support. They’re removable so that you can insert your orthotics instead. Last but not least, customer reviews are great!
More Propét Sneakers for Diabetes and Neuropathy
Propét Diabetic Walking Shoes: Cons
- The price. Propét shoes are premium quality and come at a higher price.
- These are leather shoes. It's not the most breathable fabric.
- Not machine washable.
Best Sneakers for Diabetic Neuropathy: Orthoshoes Adjustable Walking Shoes
Orthoshoes Sneakers for Neuropathy: Pros
- Highly adjustable & non-binding - Ideal for swollen, aching, sensitive feet
- Tie-less & easy to put on and off
- Stretchable mesh fabric - highly breathable
- Air-cushioned insoles for maximal shock absorption and protection
- Removable insoles so you can acomodate your own orthotics
- Non-slip and lightweight flexible outsole
- Protective non-irritative interior
- Extra-wide toe box
- Machine washable
- Reasonable price and great customers reviews
Orthoshoes Sneakers for Neuropathy: Cons
- Not made for walking long distances.
- Not as supportive as other diabetic sneakers.
Diabetic Sneakers & Neuropathy Walking Shoes: FAQ
How to choose the best diabetic sneakers or walking shoes for neuropathy?
If you live your diabetes or neuropathy, you’re more at risk of developing serious foot problems. Because of poorer blood circulation and a loss of sensitivity, our feet are in greater danger and need extra comfort and protection.
Diabetic shoes are designed to prevent or alleviate the most common diabetes-related foot problems. But there’s no such thing as the “best” diabetic sneakers. What you should be looking for instead are the sneakers that best suit your own feet and best address your problems.
Good sneakers for diabetes and neuropathy should be non-binding, so they help boost blood circulation in your feet. The best ones come with fully adjustable features: adjustable uppers and heel straps, removable insoles, removable fitting spacers, etc. The most important thing is finding the perfect fit for you. Tight enough, so your feet are supported, but not too tight so as not to block your circulation or put painful pressure points.
It’s also essential that your sneakers provide good feet, arch, heel support, and enhanced stability. Your insoles should be well-cushioned and of good quality. The outsole is better when thick but flexible. It would help if you also had a wide toe box to keep your toes moving during exercise (it helps boost blood flow).
The material is also essential when it comes to diabetic footwear. I prefer breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics that keep your feet in a dry and healthy environment away from fungus. Your shoes must also be as lightweight as possible to improve traction and foot motion.
Last but not least, the shoe interiors should be lined, cushioned, and with seamless construction to prevent blisters and skin irritations.
All diabetic sneakers I’ve selected in this article are recommended by podiatrists and are among the best ones you can find. Have a look!
Does Nike make diabetic shoes?
