Diabetic foot complications cause 70,000+ amputations in the US every year — almost all preventable. The right footwear is the single most important preventive measure a diabetic patient can take outside of blood sugar control.
What makes a shoe safe for diabetic feet is different from what makes a shoe comfortable. You need extra depth, seamless interiors, wide toe boxes, and removable insoles. Here are the five best diabetic shoes in 2026.
What to look for
The 5 best options in 2026
APMA accepted, Medicare-approved therapeutic shoe, available in 6 widths from 2A to 4E. The ROLLBAR stability post reduces plantar pressure in diabetic feet, and the wide deep toe box accommodates swollen feet and custom orthotics without compression.
- APMA accepted
- Medicare-approved therapeutic shoe
- Available in 6 widths
- ROLLBAR reduces plantar pressure
- Heavy compared to athletic shoes
- Limited color options
APMA accepted and recommended for diabetic patients who need to stay active. Maximum cushioning protects compromised tissue from impact forces, and the rocker sole reduces forefoot pressure at toe-off — a common ulcer site.
- APMA accepted
- Maximum cushioning protects tissue
- Rocker sole reduces forefoot pressure
- Available in wide
- Not Medicare-approved therapeutic footwear
- Expensive
Specifically engineered as a diabetic therapeutic shoe — seamless interior, extra depth, wide toe box, ergonomic insole. Dual velcro straps ideal for patients with limited mobility or neuropathy affecting fine motor control.
- Fully seamless interior
- Velcro for limited mobility
- Extra depth for orthotics
- Orthofeet biomechanical sole
- Purely functional aesthetic
Not a designated therapeutic shoe, but for mild to moderate diabetic foot needs the wide width and soft knit upper provide genuine protection at an accessible price. The built-in Arch Fit insole reduces forefoot pressure.
- Very affordable
- Wide reduces forefoot pressure
- Soft upper
- Easy on/off
- Not Medicare-approved therapeutic footwear
- Less protection than designated diabetic shoes
Best diabetic shoe for professional environments — looks like a normal walking shoe while delivering extra depth, wide toe box, and seamless construction. Medicare-approved therapeutic footwear for qualifying patients.
- Professional appearance
- Medicare-approved therapeutic shoe
- Available in 6 widths
- Removable insole for inspection
- Less cushioning than Hoka
- Not for athletic activity
The bottom line
New Balance 928v3 is the right call for most diabetic patients — Medicare-approved, available in enough widths to fit almost anyone, stability reduces plantar pressure that causes ulcers.
If you have Medicare Part B and a diabetes diagnosis, you may qualify for one pair of therapeutic shoes and three pairs of insoles per year at little or no cost. Talk to your podiatrist — they can write the prescription. Don't buy retail if you qualify for coverage.
Want a personalized recommendation?
A podiatrist can fit you for the exact combination that matches your foot type and condition.