Conquer Joint Pain: The Top 8 Editor-Tested Shoes for Arthritic Relief (2024)

• Our Picks

• We Also Tested

• How We Tested

• What to Look For

• FAQs

• Why Trust Verywell Health

With the hands-free design of the Kizik Roamer, you can simply step into the shoe and go. The stretchy fabric hugs your foot and provides breathability to keep your feet from getting too hot. The lightweight design is great for foot and ankle arthritis, as it's easy to move around without putting too much strain on the joints. Plus, the insoles are removable, so you can replace them with a custom orthotic if needed.

The reinforced heel and non-slip outsole made us feel very stable in the Roamer during testing. While they boast adequate shock support, we wouldn't recommend them for high-impact activities like running. Although there aren’t any wide width options, the toe box is exceptionally roomy and allows your toes to flex and move with ease.

The shoes themselves are spot clean and air dry only, but the insoles are machine washable. The hands-free technology is enough to make the Roamer our top pick for those with arthritis, as very few classic sneaker options offer such convenience.

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: Women’s 6–13 / men’s 4.5–13; standard width only | Materials: Knit upper, leather outsole | Weight: 13 ounces ounces per shoe | Arch Support: Moderate}

These American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) approved shoes are designed with an extra supportive cushion to help absorb impact and reduce the stress on your knees. The breathable upper is made from synthetic mesh to keep air circulating, while the adjustable laces make it easy to tighten to your exact fit.

Like the Roamers, the insoles are removable, so you can switch out for a custom orthotic. The collar and tongue are padded to provide extra comfort. Considering their high support level, we can't believe how lightweight they are. We're also impressed by the cushioning and shock absorption of the midsole. Transitions between steps are incredibly smooth with these shoes.

The Rykä Devotion X Walking Shoe is an excellent choice for those with knee arthritis, as they provide the ideal mixture of cushioning and stability to support your stride on just about any terrain. After a few wears, the footbed conforms to the shape of your foot for even more arch support. However, those who stand for hours each day may need additional arch support that these can’t provide. The laces are also somewhat short.

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: Women’s 5–12; Standard and wide options | Materials: Mesh upper, rubber outsole | Weight: 8.7 ounces | Arch Support: Moderate}

OrthoFeet specializes in designing footwear using advanced biomechanics to reduce the heel and arch pain common to those with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This autoimmune inflammatory condition can cause varying degrees of joint pain and swelling, making it difficult to find shoes that don't contribute to the discomfort. The Kita Hands Free features an easy slip-on design that prevents bending, and the footbed is designed with anatomic support to decrease pain associated with RA.

The one-piece construction of the upper ensures a snug fit without putting too much pressure on your feet. All OrthoFeet shoes include a cushioned, shock-absorbing insole and optional arch booster for easy customization. While the aesthetics aren't as slick as some of the other options, we felt very supported in these shoes and could walk for hours without pain.

It's important to note there's little ventilation in the Kita, so your feet can become hot after long periods. While the upper is made from knit, this style trapped heat more than other styles we tested. This is likely only an issue for those who live in warmer climates or have naturally hot feet.

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: Women’s 5–12; Standard, wide, and x-wide | Materials: Knit upper, rubber outsole| Weight: 9.74 ounces (W8)| Arch Support: Maximum}

Arthritis commonly affects joints throughout the body, including the hips, knees, wrists, and fingers. It can also occur in the toes, which limits your range of motion and makes it difficult to find comfortable shoes. As another APMA-accepted style, the Topo Rekover 2 is designed with a roomy toe box that allows your toes to spread and flex without feeling constricted.

The footbed has a unique design featuring ridges and contours that massage your feet while walking, stimulating the nerves in your feet to reduce pain. It also encourages proper toe extension and articulation for improved balance and stability. The upper is made from water-resistant wool that repels liquids but retains heat, so it might not be ideal for those who tend to overheat in shoes.

We were pleased to find that the Rekover 2 can be worn with or without socks. The textured insole didn't cause friction or irritation, even without an extra layer between the foot and shoe. We found bounce-back cushioning soft and squishy—which makes sense for recovery. Our only complaint is the shorter toe box, which may be too short for those with longer toes. The heat retention is also worth noting.

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: Women’s 6–11 / men’s 8–14; Standard width only | Materials: Wool and polyester blend upper, Vibram outsole | Weight: 6.5 ounces (W7) | Arch Support: Moderate}

Skechers has been at the forefront of comfort since the early days of walking shoes. Founded in 1992, the brand has more recently expanded its lineup to include footwear explicitly designed for performance, comfort, and style. The Go Walk Flex Alani is a budget-friendly option offering outstanding comfort with few bells and whistles—all at a price below competitors.

The water-resistant upper features breathable mesh and stretch laces that allow you to slip the shoe on and off easily. We were pleasantly surprised to find the well-cushioned heel tapers to the forefoot. The slope of the footbed offers slight arch support, though a custom orthotic or alternative arch support may be necessary if you need an extra boost.

The Alani is machine washable, which comes in handy if you find yourself walking through mud during your outdoor adventures. While the lack of laces may be a pro for some, it means the fit isn’t adjustable. Since all feet are created differently, this could be a deal breaker if you prefer to cinch up your laces for a snug fit—or loosen them when your feet become inflamed.

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: Women’s 5–13; Standard and wide options | Materials: Mesh upper, rubber outsole| Weight: 7 ounces (W8) | Arch Support: Minimal}

Walking is a low-impact exercise that can help reduce joint pain and improve overall cardiovascular health. However, your feet won’t feel refreshed if you're not wearing the proper tennis shoes. The Asics GEL-NIMBUS 25 has the right amount of cushioning and support to keep your feet comfortable and protected for miles.

These shoes have a rocker sole that encourages proper walking form while the cushioning reduces the impact from heel to toe. We found the upper breathable and secure, and our feet didn't become clammy even after an extended stroll. The tongue isn't padded, which could be an issue for those needing extra ankle cushioning.

The GEL-NIMBUS 25 comes in a wide range of color options, from brighter tones to classic neutrals. However, the shoes run a bit narrow in the toes. If you have wider feet or want extra room in the toe box, you may need to size up a half-size. Otherwise, these are excellent for reducing the walking-related discomfort associated with arthritis.

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: Women’s 5–13 / men’s 6–16; Standard width only | Materials: Knit upper, rubber outsole | Weight: 9.2 ounces| Arch Support: Moderate}

Running with arthritis can be challenging, especially if you need shoes that provide cushioning and support without compromising flexibility. The New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v12 is the perfect partner for maintaining your running regime—without putting undue stress on their joints.

The engineered mesh upper offers superior breathability, while the rocker sole propels you forward into the next stride. We think the cushioning is balanced—not too firm or squishy. The bootie-like design hugs the foot for a secure fit, but the collar may restrict mobility if you have wider ankles.

The v12 has more cushioning than its predecessor,—which is great news for runners looking to soften their impact and reduce joint pain. However, some buyers report the shoe runs large compared to other 1080 models, so it may be best to size down a half size.

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: Women’s 5–13 / men’s 7–16; Standard, narrow, wide, x-wide | Materials: Mesh upper, rubber outsole | Weight: 8.3 ounces (W8) | Arch Support: Moderate}

A high-quality sandal is essential for those warmer days when your feet need to breathe. The Birkenstock Milano Big Buckle is a classic sandal with plenty of adjustability to keep your feet happy. With three adjustable straps—a backstrap and two upper straps—it's easy to tailor the fit to your foot. If you struggle with fluid retention or swelling, you'll appreciate the ability to loosen and tighten as needed.

Birkenstock is well-known for its cork-based footbeds that mold to your feet with time. While it takes some initial break-in, you'll quickly appreciate how comfortable the footbed is. Each step is cushioned by a foam layer underneath the cork and latex blend, and the molded heel cup helps keep your foot in place.

The classic look of the Milano Big Buckle sandal is enough to make it a wardrobe staple. You can style them with your favorite shorts or summer dress. However, the break-in period makes these sandals a better fit for those who plan to wear them often—not just on special occasions. The footbed also becomes dark with wear, which some buyers find unattractive. You can clean it with a damp cloth to help the color stay more vibrant.

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: Women’s 4–12.5 | Materials: Leather upper, EVA outsole | Weight: 10 ounces | Arch Support: Moderate}

How We Rated the Best Shoes for Arthritis

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the best shoes to wear when you have arthritis?

  Our experts recommend wearing shoes with plenty of support and cushioning, with additional features like adjustable laces or buckles and breathable fabric. Other important considerations include weight, ease of movement, and traction. Tennis shoes or sneakers designed for people with arthritis may be the best option for those with chronic pain and inflammation.

• Are there any shoe styles that people with arthritis should avoid?

  Bennet recommends avoiding unsupportive shoes like flip-flops, slides, or ballet flats. Slip-on canvas shoes and ultra-soft memory foam options may also contribute to additional strain on the joints. Dr. Garcia also suggests avoiding high heels, pointy-toed shoes, and those with flat soles and minimal arch support, as they don't provide the stability needed to reduce arthritis-related pain.

• Can certain footwear help if you have arthritis?

  Yes, certain styles can help reduce joint pain associated with arthritis. A podiatrist can help you determine which shoe style and support option is best for your feet. Your arch, foot type, and activity level should all be considered before purchasing. Orthotics or custom insoles may be the best choice if your arthritis affects the feet and ankles.