Since arthritis can cause severe pain in the joints, it’s important to avoid certain types of shoes that may exacerbate the condition. For example, heels of both high (over 2 inches) and low heights, can put extra pressure on the ball of the foot and joints. Shoes with pointed toes can also cause hammertoes and other foot deformities.
Other types of shoes people with arthritis should avoid include unsupportive sandals and flip flops due to their flat soles and lack of support, which can put additional pressure on the foot and cause pain.
“With arthritis, there are some key [factors] to be mindful of when shoe shopping because it’s not just about looking for memory foam inside the shoe,” says Dr. Eldridge.
Additional factors a person with arthritis should consider are highlighted below.
Find the Right Fit
Wearing the wrong size shoe (too big or too small) can increase pain caused by arthritis and cause damage or injury to the joints in the ankles and feet.
“Shoes that are too small or too large can cause different issues with the joints of the foot,” says Dr. Raval. “A good running shoe store can help customers get sized for an appropriate pair of shoes.” Usually there should be a half finger to a full finger width between the long toe and the end of the shoe, he says.
Arthritis can also cause deformities of the foot, which can become painful for a person wearing the wrong sized shoes. Making sure a shoe fits properly and is the correct size for a user’s foot can help increase comfort levels and protect the user’s foot joints from further damage. Keep in mind that shoe sizes can vary depending on the brand, and a person’s foot size may change over time. It’s also important to measure a person’s foot white standing and sitting down to take into account any fluctuation and need for additional space in the shoe, according to the Arthritis Foundation.
Additionally, Dr. Eldridge encourages people to pay attention to the shape of a shoe’s toe box. “This [element] so often gets overlooked,” she adds. “I recommend looking for a more square-shaped toe box, [as well as] a deep toe box that allows plenty of room for the toes in a top-to-bottom direction.”
Stability and Support
Stability is an important factor for anyone with arthritis, and wearing a shoe with a stable foundation and structure can help ensure a proper gait and improved overall mobility. Wearing a shoe with enough stability and structure can also help decrease pain in the affected areas of the foot and protect joints from further damage. Ankle support is equally important, according to Dr. Raval.
“The shoes shouldn’t allow for easy inversion or eversion of the ankle, as that [movement] can strain the ligaments of the ankle and top of the foot,” he says. “If these [ligaments] become strained, additional force [travels] through the joints of the foot, exacerbating the arthritis.”
Arch support should also be prioritized. “Many shoes, especially the more fashionable ones, don’t have significant arch support. This [lack of support] puts many of the ligaments and bones in the foot at higher stress, leading to more pain and exacerbations of osteoarthritis,” he says. “Additionally, it places significant strain on the plantar fascia, which can lead to the development of plantar fasciitis.”
Lightweight Design
Keeping a shoe’s overall weight in mind can also be helpful when searching for a supportive and comfortable shoe for arthritis. “For the most part, people with osteoarthritis in their feet want to offload the joints as much as possible,” says Dr. Raval. “To that end, lighter shoes place less strain on the joints, leading to fewer exacerbations.”
Comfort
Finding a comfortable shoe is important to help decrease pain in joints affected by arthritis. A shoe’s sole should be shock absorbing with plenty of midsole support, underfoot cushioning and firm heel counters. Choosing a shoe with these features offers support that can help keep joints stabilized and in place, which can help alleviate pain and strain on the joint, according to the Arthritis Foundation.
A shoe should comfortably conform to a user’s foot on the first wear and shouldn’t need to be broken in to feel comfortable. However, a comfortable shoe should still have proper stability and shouldn’t have an overly flexible sole. “Look for a fairly thick and rigid sole bottom. A very flexible shoe places too much stress on the foot,” notes Dr. Eldridge.
When it comes to laces, Dr. Eldridge recommends ones that can be adjusted easily and in various patterns that are most comfortable for the user—especially those who have foot pain. “Often people look for no laces when sneaker shopping, thinking that this [detail] gives them more stretch, but there’s actually very little room for swelling,” she adds.
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FAQs
There's a host of shoe manufacturers known for being an especially good fit for people who have arthritis. Clark's, Vionic, Orthofeet, and Klogs are some of the brands both recommended by members the CreakyJoints community and approved by the foot experts we talked to. Mephisto, Drew, and Ecco are other good options.
What shoes should you wear if you have arthritis? ›
There's a host of shoe manufacturers known for being an especially good fit for people who have arthritis. Clark's, Vionic, Orthofeet, and Klogs are some of the brands both recommended by members the CreakyJoints community and approved by the foot experts we talked to. Mephisto, Drew, and Ecco are other good options.
Which Hoka shoe is best for arthritis? ›
I find that the HOKA Bondi provides excellent support and stability. Accordingly, I have happily recommended them to friends and colleagues.” “As a Podiatric Physician and Surgeon, I am always faced with the task of helping my patients get through their exercise goals and activities of daily living.
Are Hokas for older people? ›
“I recommend the Hoka Bondi for patients that need max cushioning, such as older patients that have fat pad atrophy (where the fat on the bottom of your foot thins) or arthritis,” says Dr. Parthasarathy.
What is the best thing to wear for arthritis? ›
Comfortable Stretch Fabrics
For greater well-being and comfort, choose fabrics which move with the body rather than against. Super stretch fabrics including jerseys, and viscose with elastane, help make getting in and out of clothes much easier. Stretchy fabrics also give an easy feel and comfort of movement all day.
What are the best shoes to wear if you have arthritis in your hips? ›
Shoes without a heel, with appropriate arch support, and cushioned soles for shock-absorbing technology are some of the best shoes to wear to prevent hip pain. These shoes not only help reduce injuries and discomfort to your hips but also help relieve stress on your feet.
Are New Balance shoes good for arthritis? ›
Running with arthritis can be challenging, especially if you need shoes that provide cushioning and support without compromising flexibility. The New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v12 is the perfect partner for maintaining your running regime—without putting undue stress on their joints.
What do podiatrists think of Hoka? ›
Plenty of doctors and podiatrists have recommended Hoka for its beneficial design and enhanced cushioning. Tim Dutra, DPM, M.S., MHCA, says, "Hoka offers a variety of shoes with a wide range of cushioning and support and width options, and Hoka shoes are a favorite of runners, walkers, and hikers."
Do Hoka shoes help with arthritis? ›
They have all the stability features you need while still providing balanced cushioning. Thanks to Hoka's J-Frame technology, these shoes help prevent overpronation (inward rolling), and many people with arthritis need stability to limit excessive motion in arthritic joints in the foot to prevent pain.
Are memory foam shoes good for arthritis? ›
Unsupportive shoes can worsen pain in the foot and ankle. There are two important features a shoe needs to help alleviate arthritis pain: memory foam cushioning and wide width.
HOKA running shoes often feel more plush and forgiving, whereas Brooks running shoes are responsive yet comfortable. Additionally, the heel-to-toe drop differs. Most Brooks running shoes have a heel-to-toe drop of around 10 mm-12 mm. In contrast, this heel-to-toe difference is only about 5 mm in HOKA running shoes.
Which is better Hoka Clifton or Bondi? ›
In summary, if you prioritize functionality, a streamlined design, and a shoe that's great for various running styles and durations, the Hoka Clifton may be your top pick. However, if you lean towards cushioned comfort and need a shoe that excels on longer, more leisurely runs, the Hoka Bondi is an excellent choice.
Why do podiatrists recommend HOKA? ›
“Hoka walking sneakers are great because they offer an appropriate amount of support, stability, and comfort,” says podiatrist Brad Schaeffer, DPM, foot surgeon and owner of Central Park Sole in New York City.
Is there anything that actually works for arthritis? ›
There is no cure for arthritis. But it's important to help keep joints working by reducing pain and inflammation. Work on a treatment plan with your healthcare provider that includes medicine and therapy. Work on lifestyle changes that can improve your quality of life.
Does anything really help arthritis pain? ›
Physical Activity
Walking, biking, swimming, and other water activities (e.g., water aerobics, aqua jogging) are all effective ways to ease arthritis pain and are safe for most adults. Learn more about physical activity for arthritis.
Is walking good or bad for arthritis in feet? ›
Walking is often recommended for people with arthritis because it's a low-impact exercise that keeps the joints flexible, helps bone health, and reduces the risk of osteoporosis.
What makes foot arthritis worse? ›
What causes arthritis flare-ups in the feet? Most daily activities can aggravate the joints in the feet. Putting pressure or weight on the feet can trigger flares but so can resting for long periods, such as overnight. Some people experience flares in cold weather or after eating particular foods.
Should you wear compression socks if you have arthritis? ›
Benefits of Compression Socks or Stockings for Patients:
Relieves stiffness, pain, and aches caused by the inflammation of arthritis. Prevention of swelling in the legs, as well as a reduction in swelling. Better circulation, which in return, reduces cold legs and feet.
Are Skechers good for arthritic knees? ›
Skechers shoes are known for their ability to flex and twist, promoting a natural stride when you walk. Skechers GOwalk Joy is an especially popular option for those with knee problems.
