When you put on a pair of shoes you want them to be comfortable regardless of your age. This allows you to walk easier and further with less pain and effort. When it comes to seniors this couldn’t be more true. Comfortable walking shoes for seniors are essential for better stability, balance, and less pain in the feet while moving.
We will explore and show you what walking shoes may be a good fit for you when walking inside or outside. A good pair of comfortable shoes can get you back exercising and feeling good no matter what age.
Table of Contents
5 Best Comfortable Shoes For Seniors
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1. New Balance Men’s 577 V1 Hook and Loop Walking Shoe
The New Balance Men’s 577 V1 Hook and Loop Walking shoes are our number one choice for comfortable walking shoes for seniors. These shoes achieve a secure fit without any laces because of the feature a convenient hook-and-loop closure.
You will find these shoes comfortable and cushioned because of the all=leather uppers and solid rubber outsoles.
A polyurethane midsole adds extra stability and lightweight cushioning that adds support and ABXORB technology in they’ll that helps absorbs shock when walking.
Product dimensions:
12.72 x 7.28 x 5 inches
Weight: 1.03 pounds
Our rating: (4.7 / 5)
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PROS
- 100% leather
- No laces
- ABZORB cushioning in heel
- Solid rubber outsoles
Cons
- Heel could be an issue until broken in
2. Skechers Performance Go Walk Joy
The Skechers Performance Go Walk Joy is an excellent woman shoe for comfort. With its slip-on and snug fit, anyone would love to walk in these shoes.
The lightweight and flexible shoe has a parametric cushioned 5Gen midsole that provides added comfort. This shoe only weighs 5.2 ounces so it can feel like you are not even wearing shoes.
The rubber soles also provide longer life than other materials and absorb more shock on your feet.
If your feet have pain. bunions, hammer toe, or arthritis these shoes will make your feet feel more comfortable.
Our rating: (4.6 / 5)
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PROS
- Rubber soles
- Breathable upper mesh
- Parametric cushioned 5Gen midsole
Cons
- They can stretch out overtime
3. Clarks Women’s Cheyn Madi Slip-On Loafer
This woman shoe is a slip-on loafer that is really comfortable and a great looking shoe. This is a very comfortable shoe that has a cushion soft technology and an ortholite footbed.
For anyone who has pain from plantar fasciitis or arthritis will relieve pain partly because of the slight heel and excellent cushion technology.
Made from 100 percent leather and a synthetic sole. They have a heel height of 1.2″ and the platform measures approximately 0.5 inches.
Our rating: (4.6 / 5)
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PROS
- Made from 100% leather
- Synthetic sole
- Wide width may not be as wide as some would like
Cons
- May take some time to break them in
4. Easy Spirit Women’s Traveltime Mule
This type of shoe is comfortable especially for these ladies that have plantar fasciitis. They also allow for the ankle area to stretch a bit for swollen ankles. This shoe is made from a combination of 80 percent leather and 20 percent fabric and has a rubber sole that will last longer than other types of materials.
They are really easy to take on and off and the removable sock liners help absorb shock when walking.
A lot of people do not wear shoes in the house or at the least they own shoes strictly for the home and they are not worn outside. These shoes provide comfort and a good grip for the elderly and can certainly be worn inside as well.
Weight: 7.2 ounces
Our rating: (4.5 / 5)
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PROS
- Rubber sole
- Good for wide feet
- Easy on and off
Cons
- May run small and need to be ordered up a size
5. Skechers Equalizer Double Play
Made from 100 percent knit mesh these comfortable shoes for seniors have a flexible sole, memory foam inside to help with comfort and absorb shock as you take steps.
These shoes are extremely light at only 6.6 ounces. While not the lightest in the bunch we reviewed they are out top pick of the lightest comfortable shoes.
Sketchers have been in business since 1992 and have the know-how and technology to make excellent comfortable shoes.
Because of the lightweight and ease of putting on they are a favorite amount seniors that want to get out and exercise.
Our rating: (4.6 / 5)
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PROS
- 100 percent knit mesh and breathable
- Extreme lightweight
- Memory foam insole
- Flexible sole
Cons
- Feet will get wet with any type of water or rain
Comfortable Shoes For Elderly Buying Guide
So, what should you look for when wanting to purchase comfortable walking shoes for seniors? Let’s take a look at some important aspects within a shoe that would make them comfortable and easier for you to walk in.
Shoe Weight
Shoe weight is important especially for seniors or for someone who has leg issues and has trouble moving properly. When looking at weight anything below 10 ounces would be considered lightweight. Some of our shoes we have reviewed like the Skechers Equalizer Double Play have a weight of 6.6 oz. This is extremely lightweight.
Cushioning
When we talk about cushioning we mean comfort. No one wants to wear a pair of shoes that are uncomfortable. When you have no cushion or very little you can feel more pressure on your feet while you are standing or walking.
Look for shoes that use high-quality foams and material for cushioning. Some of the most comfortable shoes for seniors have great cushioning.
OutSole
The outsole is what hits the ground and you should look for shoes that offer rubber or sytntic-rubber that provides both comfort and durability. When we talk about seniors using comfortable shoes you still want to stay with lightweight but durable outsoles that still provide the durability for lasting long.
Velcro And Slide On
Velcro and slide on shoes may offer an easier time for the elderly to get their shoes on and off. We will tell you that laces when untied can become a tripping hazard for anyone and this will increase your chances of a fall.
When looking for shoes, especially for seniors try finding shoes that you can either velcro or slide on.
If you so opt for laces be sure you always have them tied to avoid them getting tangled or catching on something causing you to fall.
The Fit
Fit is really important. If you are not purchasing shoes in person and purchase online make sure you purchase from a retailer that will allow for returns. When you get your shoes make sure you try them on and try these things before making a final decision.
- Try on both the shoes to make sure they feel right on your feet.
- Make sure to wear socks when trying on your new shoes to get a true feel.
- Walk around with them on for a few minutes to see how they feel. It is not uncommon for new shoes to feel tight and they can a little getting used to breaking in.
- Make sure your toe box has some room. You will notice that the majority of walking shoes will have round toe boxes. These help in walking and preventing blisters.
Wearing Safe Footwear Can Help Prevent Falling
For seniors, it is extremely important to take care of your feet. By doing so and wearing the proper types of shoes you can help reduce falls.
Wearing shoes that do not fit or where laces are involved and not securely tied can lead to a higher risk of falling.
To improve foot care and reduce the risk of taking a fall:
- Be sure to see your doctor if you have foot pain or issues. A podiatrist as well if you have one. If you have bunions, ulcers, calluses or corns deal with them to keep your feet in the best possible order.
- Wear footwear that uses a velcro fastener or laces so your shoes fit nice and snug. Try to avoid flip-flops as they can cause falls in the elderly.
- Pick shoes with low or flat heels when possible. These give you more contact with the ground and can also reduce falling.
- The grip on the soles should be sufficient and try to go with non-slip soles. If you are going to wear slippers in the house be sure they have a non-slip or skid bottom.
Common Questions And Answers on Comfortable Shoes for Seniors
What type of Shoes for balance problems?
Seniors will often shuffle their feet while walking and this increases the risk of falling. When you use the wrong shoes like flip-flops, high-heels, and non-skid bottom soles it enhances the risk of falling again.
Shoes for balance issues for seniors will have softer soles, better traction bottoms, and fit the feet snug.
What type of Shoes should you look for with plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is stabbing pain on your heel. This type of common orthopedic issue is the main reason that makes walking difficult and especially in seniors.
When looking for the most comfortable shoes for seniors that have Plantar Fasciitis is to look for arch and heel support. Extra rigidity in the sole and cushioning in the midfoot will also help.
What devices can help with getting my shoes on without bending down?
A shoehorn can help you get your shoes on easier. Look for shoehorns that are long. Some like the Extra Long Metal Shoe Horn is 23 inches and made fo heavy-duty stainless steel. These types of devices are easier on your back and allow you to get your shoes on with easier and most of the time by yourself.
In Closing
As you can see there are many different walking shoes for seniors. The big takeaway is that not everyone has the same needs and you will have to determine what you require in a walking shoe. If you have wide feet or foot issues you will need to find shoes that are designed to make your feet comfortable in those situations.
Be sure to look at the most important aspects of what makes a good shoe comfortable like rubber soles, materials, and weight.
If purchasing shoes online be sure to try them on and use our guide above to make sure those shoes are what you need and to make sure they are comfortable.
So, what are the best comfortable shoes for seniors?
When looking for a comfortable shoe there are many factors you need to be aware of. Comfort, padding, outsoles, material, and more need to be considered. With that said our top choice for the best comfortable shoes for seniors is…
This shoe provides excellent comfort and stability. It also provides a rubber outsole and no laces that allow for easy on and off. Again, you should fit your shoes to the needs you need most.
Just remember to follow our guides on what to look for when purchasing comfortable shoes. We hope we have shed light on your next shoe buying experience.