fbpx

What are the widest shoes for diabetics?

People with diabetes often develop foot issues that require them to wear extra wide shoes. The widest shoes available for diabetics are in a 14E width, which provides maximum room for swollen or bandaged feet. Some top extra wide diabetic shoe options by brand include:

Propet Velcro Shoes
Wide Width Propet Shoes
  • Propet Stability Walker in 5E width – This roomy athletic shoe has a removable insole and lots of adjustability features. It comes in sizes up to 18.
  • Apis 9702 in 14E width – An adjustable leather diabetic shoe with soft cushioning and a protective padded collar. Available up to size 20.
  • Dr. Comfort Stallion in 4E width – A dress leather moccasin built for comfort and protection. Sizes up to 15.
  • Orthofeet Granite in 6E width – With insole orthotic support and seam-free interior, this work boot provides a pressure-free fit. Sizes up to 14.

For the absolute widest diabetic shoes, look for the 14E width and contact our fitting experts for recommendations based on your specific foot issues. We carry styles up to size 16 for maximum comfort.

What are the best shoes for swollen feet from diabetes?

6221-frank-bark-main
Dr Comfort Dress Shoe

If you have swollen feet due to diabetic edema, look for shoes that have adjustability, removable components, and seam-free interiors. Some top options include:

  • Propet Malcom Strap – With its adjustable hook-and-loop straps and removable insoles, this shoe accommodates bandages and swelling. The stretchable upper material allows flexibility.
  • Apis 9921 – The full-grain leather upper has adjustable hook-and-loop closures for a custom fit around swelling. The removable insoles can be swapped for your own orthotics.
  • Orthofeet Alamo – The upper material stretches to ease pressure on swollen feet. The cushioned, orthotic insoles provide arch support and offload pressure.
  • Dr. Comfort Frank – This dress shoe has adjustable Velcro closures and a seam-free, diabetic-friendly interior lined with plush foam. The stretchy upper accommodates swelling.

When choosing shoes for diabetic edema, look for adjustable closures, removable insoles, seam-free linings, and stretchy materials that flex with your feet as they swell and deflate through the day. Contact our customer service if you need help selecting the right pair.

How do you measure for extra wide width shoes?

Measuring your feet is crucial for finding properly fitted extra wide diabetic shoes. Here are some tips:

  • You can measure your foot at home with a soft tape ruler and paper.
  • When measuring width, ensure the device is snug but not tight against your foot. You want your foot’s natural width.
  • Measure both sitting down and standing with weight on your feet. Feet swell during the day so measure your feet in the afternoon.
  • For extra wide sizes (E, EE, EEE, EEEE), focus on the width measurements. Length is less crucial.
  • Wear the type of socks you’ll wear with the shoes during measurement.
  • Consider ordering 1-2 sizes up and wider than your measured size to accommodate swelling, bandages, etc.
  • Our foot measurement guide has more tips for getting accurate at-home measurements.

With the right width and size measurements, we can help you find the perfect pair of extra wide diabetic shoes for maximum comfort. Contact us if you need assistance with sizing.

What features should I look for in an extra wide diabetic shoe?

When searching for extra wide diabetic shoes, prioritize these key features:

  • Adjustable closures like Velcro straps or laces allow you to loosen or tighten the fit as your feet swell and deflate. This ensures no pressure points.
  • Removable insoles let you insert your own custom orthotic insoles. Removable insoles also make fitting around swelling or bandages easier.
  • Seam-free interior lining minimizes risk of abrasions and sores from rubbing and friction.
  • Stretchy uppers like Lycra conform to swelling and deformities without putting pressure on toes or joints.
  • Cushioned insoles provide shock absorption and redistribute pressure away from the ball of the foot.
  • Rocker sole design promotes fluid forward movement and takes strain off the joints.
  • Depth accommodating toe box gives toes plenty of upright space and prevents rubbing against the top of the shoe.

Finding shoes with these diabetic-friendly features in extra wide widths is crucial for managing neuropathy and structural foot abnormalities. Our specialists can help you select suitable styles.

What is the best shoe brand for extra wide width diabetic shoes?

Many major shoe brands don’t offer widths beyond a standard D/E. When you need diabetic-friendly footwear in extra wide widths, we recommend these brands:

  • Apis Footwear: Offers dress, athletic, and walking shoes in widths up to 14E. Styles like the 9921 have removable insoles and adjustable closures.
  • Propet: With a wide range of 5E width shoes like the Propet Stability Walker, Propet specializes in extra wide diabetic and orthopedic footwear.
  • Orthofeet: Known for seam-free interiors and orthotic insoles, Orthofeet shoes like the Alamo accommodate swelling and deformities in widths up to 4E.
  • Dr. Comfort: Dr. Comfort designs a variety of extra depth and extra wide shoes with Velcro adjustability, stretchy uppers, and protective padding for sensitive feet.

We carry all these top brands of extra wide diabetic shoes here at DT Footwear. Browse our full selection or call us to learn more about the best shoe brands for your specific needs.

Can I wear my regular shoes if I have Edema?

You should not wear your regular shoes if you develop edema (swelling) in your feet due to diabetes. Typical shoes that fit you before swelling will put dangerous pressure on enlarged feet, ankles, and legs prone to fluid retention.

Instead, you need shoes that accommodate edema and swelling:

  • Shoes with adjustable closures like Velcro let you loosen or tighten the fit as swelling increases or decreases.
  • Removable insoles can be taken out to fit orthotics or make room for bandages, padding, etc.
  • Uppers made of stretchy Lycra or leather ease the pressure of swelling against your feet.
  • Extra depth in the toe box prevents bruising or abrasions from toes rubbing against the top of shoes.

Wearing improperly fitted regular shoes with diabetic edema can lead to wounds, blisters, calluses, and other foot health issues. Get properly sized diabetic shoes that safely accommodate swelling and protect your feet. Call us for a fitting consultation.

20011-Yari-GRY-main
Orthofeet Yari Walking Shoe

What are the best walking shoes for swollen feet?

If walking is part of your fitness routine but you suffer from chronically swollen feet, look for flexible walking shoes with adjustable features, removable components, and seamless interiors. Some top options include:

  • Propet Stability X – With an adjustable strap and removable insoles, you can modify the fit as your feet swell. The stretchable upper material flexes with your feet.
  • Orthofeet Yari – The seam-free interior won’t cause friction blisters. The cushioned orthotic insole provides support and absorbs shock.
  • Dr. Comfort Gordon – The mesh up is soft and flexible to accomodate changes in swelling.
  • Apis 9731 – A walking shoe made with diabetic feet in mind. Two hook-and-loop straps allow ffor the ideal fit.

Avoid stiff, snug-fitting athletic shoes if you experience diabetic foot swelling. Instead choose shoes with adjustability, depth, removable insoles, and shock absorption to protect your feet during your walks.

How do I convert sizes to an EEEE width shoe?

If you’ve been measured for extra wide EEEE shoes, you’ll need to convert your typical size to find shoes that will properly fit swollen or bandaged feet. Here are some tips:

  • For open-toed shoes like sandals, order 1-2 sizes larger than your normal size. Swelling extends toes, so you need more length.
  • For athletic shoes or walking styles, consider 1 full size larger. The extra length and width prevents skin abrasions.
  • For adjustable leather shoes or slip-ons, you may only need to go up 1⁄2 size, since the closures allow flexibility.
  • Always match the new length with at least a 4E (xxxx) width, even if that’s wider than what you measured. This prevents pressure.
  • If your feet swell severely during the day, increase shoe sizes by 1.5-2 sizes over your normal non-swollen size.
  • Refer to a fitted shoe’s size and width, then match or go up a size and wider width for new EEEE (4E) shoes.

With a 4E shoe, the most important thing is ensuring no pressure anywhere on the foot. Sizing up in length and width is safer than wearing an improperly fitted narrower shoe. Call us for fitting help.

Can I put my own orthotics in extra wide diabetic shoes?

One benefit of extra wide diabetic shoes is that many styles have removable insoles so you can insert your own custom orthotic inserts. Some tips for using orthotics:

  • Look for shoes labeled as having “accommodative/removable insoles” like the Propet Stability Walker.
  • Ensure your orthotic device properly fits the shoe’s insole space. It should not be too narrow or short.
  • Orthotic insoles are made to fit inside standard removable shoe insoles.
  • When first using orthotics in new shoes, check for potential pressure points that could lead to blisters or wounds.
  • Consider ordering diabetic shoes 1⁄2 to 1 full size larger than normal to accommodate the added orthotic.
  • Remove the shoe’s factory insole entirely before inserting your orthotic device.

Having the right amount of space and adjustability is key for successfully using your own orthotic inserts with extra wide diabetic shoes. Speak with our specialists for recommendations.

How can I find stylish shoes in wide widths for diabetics?

As a diabetic, you can still find fashionable, stylish shoes – you just need them in wider widths! Some tips:

  • For men, look for well-made leather Oxfords and slip-on styles from brands like Propet and Apis that come in widths up to 14E.
  • For women, brands like Orthofeet and Dr. Comfort offer fashion sneakers, sandals and Mary Jane shoes in extra widths with adjustable closures.
  • Search for shoes labeled “stretchable” or made of materials like Lycra that flex and give to accommodate swollen or sensitive feet.
  • Many athletic-style walking shoes from quality orthopedic brands now come in leather, suede and nubuck with stylish accents while still being roomy and protective.
  • For a customized look, you can take shoes to a cobbler and have the leather uppers stretched for minimal pressure across the foot.

Check out our full selection of stylish diabetic shoes under Shop by Foot Problem on the main menu. With the right width and adjustable closures, you can stay comfortable and look great. Contact us for style recommendations.

Does Medicare or health insurance plans cover extra wide diabetic shoes?

If you have state Medicaid, Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan, you may qualify for coverage of diabetic shoes and inserts in widths like 14E.

Some guidelines to qualify:

  • Your doctor must confirm you have diabetes and certify your need for therapeutic shoes.
  • Coverage includes 1 pair of extra depth or extra wide shoes and 3 pairs of insert orthotics per calendar year.
  • Qualified footwear must be prescribed by a podiatrist or other foot specialist.
  • Shoes must be fitted by a trained expert; you can’t just buy your own pair.
  • Any extra shoe features like specialty closures or materials can alter your coverage.

Medicare Part B and many major insurance carriers cover diabetic shoes and inserts with proper documentation. Being an online store only, DT Footwear does not offer fittings and you’ll need to find a local podiatrist to help you out.

Where can I buy EEEEEE width shoes for diabetes?

Finding shoes in a 6E (EEEEEE) width for diabetic feet can be challenging, but there are options:

  • Order a custom pair through a podiatrist, pedorthist or orthotist trained in specialty shoe fitting. This will get you shoes molded to your exact foot shape.
  • Check with reputable online orthopedic shoe store like DT Footwear that specialize in extra, extra wide styles with removable insoles, depth and adjustability.
  • Look at major brands like Apis, Propet, Dr Comfort and Orthofeet that manufacture shoes in hard-to-find wider widths.
  • Consider having your current shoe uppers professionally stretched. A good cobbler can stretch leather or synthetic material for a wider, pressure-free fit across the foot.

Don’t struggle with shoes that are too narrow and put pressure on your compromised feet. With some searching, there are options for finding properly fitted wide width diabetic shoes. Call us if you need assistance.

 

Disclaimer: Educational Information Only

The information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment, including any foot-related concerns. If you have any health issues or questions about your feet, please consult a qualified healthcare professional, like a doctor or podiatrist. Don’t ignore medical advice or delay seeking help based on what you read here or elsewhere. We’re not responsible for any harm caused by using this information. Everyone’s response to treatments can be different, and medical recommendations may change over time. If you experience a medical emergency or serious foot problem, seek immediate medical attention, or call your local emergency services. By using this resource, you agree to these terms and understand the importance of getting personalized medical advice from a qualified professional.

We collect cookies ok?