Even after retirement, our loved ones should be encouraged to stay active. Regular exercise and healthful activities can help older adults maintain excellent physical health and, by extension, great overall well-being.
Walking clubs, for example, are the perfect means for older adults to keep fit. They often involve walking with a group of people within a designated area or path.
While staying active is vital for older adults, ensuring their safety is just as important. To achieve this, they must wear the appropriate footwear, as wearing improper shoes may increase their risk of falling and injury.
At Seasons Retirement Communities, we prioritize the safety of our residents and offer an engaging environment supporting healthy activities. Moreover, residents are provided with emergency pendants to alert our trained staff in case of an accident.
Although helping your loved ones choose suitable footwear can be challenging, the correct information can make the selection process easier.
This article discusses what to look for in a walking shoe and some of the most suitable walking shoes for seniors today.
Below are some benefits to consider when shopping for the best shoes for seniors.
The size and comfort of a shoe often go hand in hand. So, before settling on a pair of walking shoes, ensure they are the right size to prevent restrictions or looseness on the feet. These can make walking and standing uncomfortable for older adults.
Finding the perfect fit goes beyond length. Many older adults experience foot width and volume changes due to swelling or arthritis. That’s why shoes with multiple width options (narrow, medium, wide) are essential. Adjustable elements such as bungee laces, elastic inserts, and hook-and-loop straps allow for micro-adjustments throughout the day, ideal for accommodating natural fluctuations in foot size. A properly fitting shoe helps prevent rubbing, corns, and bunions and can significantly improve overall comfort and enjoyment during walking.
In addition, it is best to choose a walking shoe made from breathable and comfortable materials. Look for sneakers with soft padding and cushioning. These materials will help protect their feet against irritation and friction that can cause discomfort and blisters. Many brands offer shoes with memory foam insoles for enhanced comfort.
Arch support is a critical factor when selecting walking shoes for seniors. As we age, our feet naturally lose some of the padding in the arches, which can lead to discomfort, pain, or even conditions like flat feet. Shoes with proper arch support help alleviate this discomfort by redistributing weight evenly across the foot. This improves comfort and reduces the risk of joint and back pain.
Shoes with added arch support can be especially beneficial for seniors with conditions such as plantar fasciitis or arthritis. Podiatrist-certified support is a key feature to look for, and many brands, including Skechers, offer shoes with their Arch Fit system, which provides targeted support where it’s most needed. This support helps enhance overall balance, reducing the risk of falls—a critical safety consideration for older adults.
Many models also offer customizable insoles, allowing the shoes to be tailored to the wearer’s specific needs. If you’re unsure about the right level of arch support, a visit to a podiatrist or foot care specialist can help ensure your loved one’s feet are properly supported.
The higher the heel of a shoe, the greater the chance of falling while walking in it. The best walking shoes for seniors have a low heel – less than one inch – for maximum contact with the ground; this helps ensure older adults are stable while walking.
Also, opt for footwear with ample support in the back, as it helps keep their heels and ankles in place. Meanwhile, shoes with broad soles will offer more stability for safe walking, as they have a greater contact area with the ground. Look for features like arch-support sneakers, which can provide additional stability for seniors.
Stability becomes more vital as we age. The best walking shoes for seniors often include more bottomless heel cups to cradle the heel, wider base soles for balance, and structured midsoles that control side-to-side movement. Some even offer slight rocker soles to smooth out roll-through during each step. For added assurance, look for cushioning systems and firm arch support that reduce fatigue and absorb shock. These design details can help improve posture, relieve joint pressure, and reduce the risk of missteps or falls so that the wearer can walk confidently and securely.
The soles of walking shoes for older adults should be resistant to slips. A proper sole should fasten to the ground in wet and dry conditions. Wearing a pair of sneakers with slip-resistant soles will significantly reduce your loved one’s risk of falling.
Additionally, the soles should be shock-absorbent to reduce the impact of walking and standing on their joints. Many modern walking shoes offer excellent cushioning and shock absorption features.
Why pay for a walking shoe that may not suit your needs when you can buy custom-made footwear for you or your loved one? Moreover, specific health issues may require seniors to use a walking shoe made according to their podiatrist’s instructions.
An instance of this may be the insertion of custom orthotics. Getting a custom-made pair is an ideal solution instead of finding shoes that can accommodate these arch supports. Some brands offer orthopedic footwear options suitable for seniors with specific foot conditions.
As we age, lightweight footwear can significantly improve mobility. Heavy shoes can cause discomfort, increase fatigue, and affect a person’s gait and posture. That’s why lightweight walking shoes are particularly suitable for seniors.
Many modern walking shoes are designed with lightweight materials that reduce the shoe’s overall weight while maintaining durability and comfort. This allows for more effortless movement, making walking less strenuous for extended periods. A lightweight shoe is also less likely to cause strain on the legs and joints, offering better energy conservation throughout the day.
Shoes with a low-profile design, which do not add bulk but still offer complete support, are great for seniors who want comfort without compromising style or functionality. These shoes provide better freedom of movement, enabling seniors to walk longer distances and enjoy activities without feeling weighed down.
Breathable shoes are crucial for maintaining foot health, particularly in older adults. Poor ventilation can lead to excessive sweating, which can cause discomfort, odour, and, in some cases, fungal infections. Therefore, choosing shoes made from breathable materials is essential when selecting walking shoes for seniors.
When you’re out on a walk – whether a stroll in our landscaped gardens or a brisk jaunt around the neighbourhood – your feet deserve breathable, moisture-wicking materials. Look for uppers made with mesh or knit fabrics; these allow air to circulate, reducing overheating and sweating. Some modern designs also include moisture-absorbing linings or antimicrobial treatments. Especially in warmer seasons, shoes with these features prevent blisters, chafing, and unpleasant odours – so your feet feel comfortable mile after mile.
Skechers and other reputable brands use mesh uppers or lightweight fabrics that promote airflow, helping to regulate foot temperature and keep the feet cool and dry. This is particularly important for seniors who may experience increased foot perspiration or swelling. Breathable shoes reduce the risk of blisters, fungal infections, and other foot-related health problems, ensuring that older adults enjoy their walks with minimal discomfort.
Moreover, a well-ventilated shoe enhances comfort by preventing the buildup of heat and moisture, which can lead to irritation. Shoes with moisture-wicking properties also help keep feet dry, making them ideal for prolonged wear.
Considering the convenience of wearing walking shoes is helpful. For example, if squatting or bending down to tie shoe laces will be challenging for you or your loved ones, you should go for shoes without laces. Many brands now offer easy-on and off shoes for seniors, such as slip-ons or those with velcro straps.
Furthermore, wearing slip-on shoes with hook-and-loop fasteners means older adults are less likely to trip over an undone lace.
What are the best shoes for seniors? Older adults have unique tastes and different needs for their footwear.
The following four walking shoes are suggested to be very suitable for seniors:
The New Balance 577 is from the unisex category and can be worn by all older adults.
This incredibly durable shoe features a convenient velcro fastener and an excellent shock-absorbing sole. It is perfect for older adults who need a cushion for their feet while walking.
The design of Hush Puppies Gil is quite basic. But whatever this shoe may lack in appearance to some, it makes up for in function. Hush Puppies Gil is comfortable and light, making it an excellent choice for casual and formal occasions.
Moreover, the shoe has a velcro strap and a rubber sole with excellent traction to reduce your older loved one’s risk of falling.
This shoe is one of the best sneakers for seniors, especially women. From its convenience and non-skid sole to its aesthetic design, there is so much to love about this footwear. It’s designed for comfort and to provide ample support to the wearer. It’s made to be worn in a slip-on style and is crafted using durable materials to last the user a long time.
This line of sneakers adds a much-needed spring to an older adult’s steps. It is one of the safest shoes for seniors, as it doesn’t have laces or velcro straps that need to be fastened. Instead, they opt for a well-designed slip-on design.
The Skechers GO WALK series will comfort you or your loved one’s feet inside and outside their home. These lightweight walking shoes feature Skechers’ innovative comfort technologies, including:
Popular models in this series include:
The GO WALK collection also includes the GO WALK Anywhere and GO WALK Max models, providing a range of options to suit different preferences and needs.
Skechers have become increasingly popular among seniors due to their focus on comfort and innovative design. Here are some key features that make Skechers shoes an excellent choice for older adults:
Many older adults live with specific foot concerns such as arthritis, bunions, diabetes, plantar fasciitis, or swelling. Choosing shoes designed to address these conditions can make a meaningful difference:
If you’re managing a foot condition, it’s a good idea to check with a podiatrist or foot clinic before selecting shoes. A proper fit and appropriate footwear can reduce pain and prevent complications.
While lightweight athletic shoes can feel effortless on your feet, they may lack the structure needed for long-term stability. On the other hand, highly supportive walking shoes often come with a bit more weight. The trick is finding a sweet spot: look for shoes under 350 grams (about 12 oz) with adequate arch support, cushioning and firm soles. These provide a sense of lightness while giving your feet the foundation they need day after day.
As mobility changes with age, ease of use matters. Slip-on styles, wide openings, and stretch panels can be helpful when bending is challenging. Elastic lacing systems, toggle laces, and one-hand straps support independence and allow quick adjustments – even when seated. These features ensure senior walkers can confidently put on and take off shoes without assistance.
A good pair of walking shoes is an investment – proper care helps them last longer. Always air-dry shoes that get wet and use removable insoles so the interior dries thoroughly. Rotate between two pairs to let cushioning recover and reduce wear in high-pressure areas. Cleaning mesh uppers with a soft brush and mild detergent keeps them looking fresh and breathable. You’ll preserve the fit, comfort, and safety features that support your active lifestyle by taking a few extra steps.
Indeed, picking the best walking shoes for seniors can be tricky and challenging. But you should take your time when selecting, as the process is for the safety of your older loved one.
The above tips can help you choose the right pair of walking shoes for you or your loved one. Whether you opt for traditional brands or innovative options, prioritize comfort, support, and safety when selecting.
*Seasons Retirement Communities is not affiliated with the above-mentioned footwear brands. Please consult a trained professional to select the correct fit and style for you or your loved one.