The Best Orthopedic Shoes for Seniors in 2023, According to Podiatrists (2023)

(Note: Product details and pricing are correct at time of publication and are subject to change.)

Orthopedic shoes support the structure of the foot, ankle and leg with a stable sole and a firm heel. People with abnormal foot mechanics are more likely to need orthopedic shoes. And older people often need orthopedic shoes because their bodies change with age and they need shoes that are easy to put on and provide extra comfort.

For seniors, an orthopedic shoe can be more than just a shoe. "Something as simple as footwear can make a world of difference in seniors' longevity, preventative care, and preventing surgery on a fragile foot," says Brian L. Ware, a podiatrist in Kansas City, Missouri.

Studies show that nearly 80% of elderly patients have foot problems, and wearing ill-fitting and inappropriate shoes is a contributing factor. These are some of the most common conditions:

Arthritis.This is the inflammation and swelling of the cartilage and lining of the joints. It also tends to build up fluid in the joints, which can lead to stiff and painful feet.

And she went.A bunion refers to an enlarged bone at the base of the big toe or joint tissue that has become dislocated. This causes the big toe to pull toward the little toes, changing the shape of the foot.

plantarfasziite.This is inflammation of the band of connective tissue called the fascia that connects the heel to the ball of the toe along the bottom of the foot.

heal the painThe heel bone is the largest bone in the foot. Heel pain can have many causes, including heel spurs (calcification deposits) and tendonitis.

Diabetes.This disease can cause foot-related complications, such as nerve damage and poor circulation, which can lead to diabetic ulcers on the bottoms of the feet.

These conditions often cause older people to look for shoes that can adapt to the changes in their feet. Loafers, for example, can often be too restrictive for older adults with edema, also called swelling.

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Whether you need orthopedic shoes or are just looking for the best shoes for seniors, be flexible and understand your options. "Strength, flexibility, disease, and your environment are factors that need to be taken into account," says Ware.

Consider these factors when choosing orthopedic shoes:

comfort and adjustability.Hooks, loops, and Velcro can help make shoes more comfortable and easier to put on and take off.

"Older people, especially men, don't flex well, so they often compromise support to make it easier to put on the shoe," says Ware. “A good trick is to buy some elastic laces and pre-tie the shoe to make them a more comfortable option for support and swelling. The lacing system allows the person to put the shoe on, like a moccasin.”

Cushioning and shock absorption.The insole is inside the shoe where the footrests rest. Shoes with removable insoles offer more flexibility; you can replace them with insoles that offer more cushioning or support.

traction and grip.The sole or hard sole of the shoe must conform to your foot. Non-slip soles can help prevent falls.

Zehenbox.This is the area at the front of the shoe where the toe rests, and it can be round, pointed, or square. Anyone who has ever worn pointe shoes knows full well that the toe box can be uncomfortable. The deeper the toe box, the more room your toes will have.

Shopping for orthopedic shoes successfully requires a bit of research and strategy.

Know the purpose and condition of your foot.Talk to your podiatrist. Your doctor can provide buying advice on factors such as heel height, shoe width, or flexibility. And think about the activities you will be doing while wearing the shoe. You may be looking for orthopedic shoes or shoes that help with balance problems.

Buy in person or rest easy with our return policy.An Internet search can help you find where to buy orthopedic shoes in your area. But don't order online if possible. You have to try on the shoes to make sure they fit you well. Ideally, go to a store that has a variety of styles. But if you need to order online, check the company's return policy before you buy. A size chart and customer service representative can also be helpful, whether you're looking for casual shoes or the best walking shoes.

Shop for and try on shoes in the late afternoon or early evening.Feet can swell throughout the day, so it's best to shop later. This helps to avoid a tight fit.

Check the fit.Feet can grow as we get older, and our feet can also vary in size. Therefore, it's a good idea to measure both feet every time you shop for new shoes. Stand while you are being measured, as the weight of your body will stretch out your feet.

Once you've tried on the shoes, it pays to be picky. There should be a half inch gap between the longest toe and the toe of the shoe. Look for areas that can be rubbed.

"Pay special attention to the bony prominences of the foot and especially the ankle bones," says Ware. "Older people's skin is very thin."

He also recommends avoiding shoes that are too wide. Too much space can cause excessive movement and this friction can cause injury.

The right shoe doesn't need to be stretched or shaped by a salesperson when you bring it home.

Don't go cheap.You don't need the most expensive shoes. You need the best shoes for you. Well-made shoes can be an investment, but they can often be changed and repaired so you can wear them for years.

A good starting point for quality orthopedic shoes is around $100. Some brands to try are Kuru Footwear, Propét, Orthofeet, and Hoka. All of these companies offer a variety of orthopedic shoes for both men and women.

You can find women's orthotic sandals for as little as $50, but depending on style and support, prices can go as high as $125. Casual shoes for women include loafers, Mary Janes, and tie shoes. These can cost anywhere from $80 to over $150.

For men, orthopedic shoes range from $90 to $175 or more. Expect to pay between $75 and $185 for casual shoes. The more specialized and supportive the shoe, the higher the price.

The best place for seniors to buy orthopedic shoes is a store that offers a wide variety. Find a store where you feel comfortable and where you can have time to try on your shoes and walk around in them. Experienced salespeople are also a plus.

It pays to find the right shoe that will give you the support and comfort you need. "Proper footwear, and often a brace for an ankle fracture, can greatly improve quality of life and even prolong it," says Ware. "That may seem like a lofty statement, but activity is essential for longevity."

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