Shoes for Arthritis
Easy-on, roomy shoes for sore, stiff joints
Arthritis can make your feet sore, swollen and hard to fit. Our shoes come in true extra widths with cushioned soles and easy hook-and-loop fastenings, so they go on easily and fit comfortably.
- Widths 2E to 8E
- Hook-and-loop fastenings
- Cushioned soles
- Removable insoles
How arthritis affects your feet
Each foot has 28 bones and more than 30 joints. Arthritis is inflammation of the joints. It can make them painful, stiff and swollen.
The most common types are osteoarthritis, which comes from wear and tear, and rheumatoid arthritis, which is an autoimmune disease. Arthritis can also start after an injury. Over time it can change the shape of the foot.
Doctors often start with simple steps. Shoes with a stiffer or rocker-style sole can ease pain by limiting how much the joints bend. Custom inserts, pads and braces can also help.
If your feet are painful, stiff or swollen, see a podiatrist or doctor to find out what type of arthritis you have and the best treatment for you.
Wide fit best sellers for arthritis
Our best-selling easy-fasten styles from the last six months.
Women's
Shop all women's
What to look for in shoes for arthritis
Easy fastenings
Hook-and-loop straps are easier than laces when your hands are stiff or sore.
Shop hook-and-loop shoesA wide opening
A wide opening lets you slide your foot in without bending sore joints.
Shop slip-on shoesA supportive sole
A cushioned, stable sole absorbs shock. A stiffer sole limits how much painful joints bend.
Shop supportive sneakersTrue extra widths
Swollen or changed joints need more room. Choose your width, from 2E up to 8E.
Learn about widthsA removable insole
Swap in a custom insert or orthotic from your podiatrist.
Shop removable insolesA roomy toe box
Arthritis can lead to bunions and bent toes. A deep, roomy toe box stops rubbing.
Shop deep-fitting shoesShop wide fit styles
Getting the fit right
Do
- Measure both feet and fit to the larger one.
- Try shoes on later in the day, when feet are bigger.
- Choose straps you can loosen on swollen days.
- Leave about a half inch of space past your longest toe.
- Check that the heel feels secure.
Avoid
- Fiddly laces if your hands are sore.
- Very thin, flexible soles.
- High heels and pointed toes.
- Going up a size to get more room.
- Shoes that need breaking in.
Supportive sneakers up to 6E
New Balance makes many of our best sellers in true wide widths, up to 6E, including hook-and-loop walking sneakers.
Not sure of your width?
Measure your feet at home. Then use our tools to find your width.
Arthritis shoe questions
How does arthritis affect the feet?
Each foot has 28 bones and more than 30 joints. Arthritis can make these joints painful, stiff and swollen, and can change the shape of the foot over time.
What shoes are best for arthritis?
Choose roomy shoes with the right width, a cushioned, supportive sole and easy fastenings. A stiffer or rocker-style sole can reduce how much the sore joints bend as you walk. Shop women's or shop men's.
Are hook-and-loop shoes good for arthritis in the hands?
Yes. Hook-and-loop straps and wide openings are easier to use than laces if arthritis makes your hands stiff or sore.
Can I use my own orthotics?
Many of our shoes have removable insoles, so you can swap in a custom insert or orthotic from your podiatrist or doctor. Shop removable insoles.
Should I go up a size if my joints are swollen?
No. A longer shoe does not add width or depth, and your foot can slide forward. Keep your normal length and choose a wider width with adjustable fastenings.
