The Diabetic’s Guide to Open-Toe Shoes: Finding the Right Open Toe Diabetic Shoes - Diabetic.org (2024)

• Published By: Chris Riley
• Published On: October 5, 2022
• Fact Checked: Medical Team
• Medically Reviewed by: Dr. Rivera

It is important to take care of your feet if you are one of the millions of people worldwide who suffer from the chronic condition of diabetes.

One of the best ways to do this is by wearing the proper footwear to help protect your feet.

In this article, we will discuss the advantages of open-toe shoes for diabetics and provide a guide on how to find the right pair of open-toe shoes for you.

We will also recommend five of the best open-toe shoes for diabetics and provide tips on how to prevent diabetic foot issues in the first place.

Why does diabetes cause foot problems?

There are two common complications of diabetes that can cause foot problems and they are diabetic neuropathy and peripheral artery disease.

Diabetic neuropathy is a condition in which the nerves are damaged due to high blood sugar levels which can cause numbness, tingling, and pain in the feet.

Peripheral artery disease, also called peripheral arterial disease, is a condition in which the arteries are narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup which can reduce blood circulation issues to the feet.

Both of these conditions can lead to open sores or wounds on the feet called diabetic foot ulcers that are slow to heal.

If not properly cared for, these open sores can become infected and lead to serious problems such as amputation.

What are the advantages of open-toe shoes for diabetics?

There are several advantages of open-toe shoes for diabetics.

First, open-toe shoes allow for better air circulation which can help to keep the feet cool and dry which is important because diabetes can cause poor circulation to the feet which can lead to sweaty, smelly feet.

If your feet are sweaty, it provides an ideal environment for fungal infections to thrive and leaves your feet at risk for blisters due to the added weight and friction of the moisture.

Open-toe shoes also allow for easier inspection of the feet so that any open sores or wounds can be easily seen and treated.

Lastly, open-toe shoes tend to be more comfortable for diabetics as they provide more room for swollen feet and don’t put as much pressure on the toes.

What features do I need to look for when shopping for open-toe shoes for diabetics?

There are several features you need to look for when shopping for open-toe shoes for diabetics.

First, you want to make sure the shoes are made of breathable materials such as leather or mesh so that your feet can stay cool and dry.

You also want to look for wide shoes with a wide toe box so that your toes have plenty of room to move and do not feel cramped.

Additionally, you want to make sure the shoes have sturdy, comfortable insole and outsole so that they do not put unnecessary pressure on your feet and cause pain or open sores and provide stability.

Lastly, you want to look for shoes with a closure system that suits your needs whether it be Velcro straps or laces so that they can be adjusted to provide a snug, but not tight, fit.

What are the 5 best open-toe shoes for diabetics?

There are many great open-toe shoes for diabetics on the market, but here are 5 of the best.

Men’s Open Toe Diabetic Recovery Slippers

The men’s slippers from the Secret Slipper Store on Amazon are perfect if you have diabetes, arthritis, plantar fasciitis, edema, and several other foot problems.

They feature an adjustable flap in case you ever have foot swelling that is easy to adjust and take on and off.

There is also heel-to-toe padding of the insole to help with any shock absorption while walking and the skid-resistant rubber soles provide traction to avoid falls.

Another great feature is that these comfortable slippers are also machine washable and they can be used for indoor or outdoor wear.

Silverts Extra Wide Adjustable Closure Open Toes for Indoor/Outdoor

These women’s sandals from Silverts have an extra depth design and are extra wide to provide you with superior comfort.

The wide width and adjustable closure make them perfect if you have wide feet or experience swelling throughout the day. The sturdy sole design has anti-slip protection to avoid falls and injuries.

There is also fluid protection in the fabric to help with spills and smells while also being antimicrobial to help prevent germs. Silverts also has these available in 3 different colors to suit your personal taste too.

Woman’s Diabetic Slippers

The Secret Slipper Store women’s adjustable diabetic and edema slippers are similar to the men’s although there are a couple of differences.

The forefoot straps are adjustable and it makes them very easy to take on and off while the toebox is extra roomy and soft uppers making them ideal for not only diabetes and edema but ulcers, sores, and sensitive feet too.

The interior lining is also seam free so it does not cause friction which could lead to blisters and ultimately diabetic foot ulcers.

An extra flexible rubber sole is also used to help with stability and to provide you the option of wearing these diabetic slippers both indoors and outdoors and there is an adjustable strap on the heel for added comfort.

Dr. Comfort Shannon Sandal

The Shannon style women’s sandal from Dr. Comfort is a perfect thong sandal for the beach or summer wear. It features a comfortable cushioned footbed with arch support that is perfect if you have flat feet.

There are no straps or laces making these perfect to slide on or off your feet with ease.

Dr. Comfort was founded to help diabetics and people with other foot conditions to have comfortable shoes that are stylish and these do not disappoint as they are also available in 3 different colors to match any outfit.

Click here for more information: https://www.drcomfort.com/shannon

Dr. Comfort Connor Sandal

Dr. Comfort also makes men’s sandals although these are slip-ons and not thong sandals like the Shannon.

The forefeet feature an adjustable strap on the forefoot for comfort if you need to adjust the straps throughout the day. It utilizes a dual-density midsole for support and has a cushioned footbed just like the Shannon style.

One of the best features of Dr. Comfort shoes or sandals is that they have a 6-month warranty for any faulty products and shipping is usually free in the United States.

Click here for more information: https://www.drcomfort.com/connor

What are the ideal shoes for diabetics?

Although we have featured open-toed shoes in this article, the best shoes for diabetics are going to be closed-toe shoes because open-toe shoes do not protect your feet from injury.

Something as simple as stubbing your toe can lead to an infected diabetic foot ulcer and possible amputation.

Although you may want sandals for around the house it is recommended that you wear closed-toed shoes with clean socks, preferably clean dry diabetic socks, even in your own home to avoid falls and to keep your feet healthy.

Summary

Open-toe shoes can be an option for diabetics as they provide superior comfort and allow for easy movement.

However, it is important to remember that open-toe shoes can lead to injury and it is recommended that you wear regular shoes that are closed-toed whenever possible.

When shopping for open-toe shoes, look for features such as adjustable straps, extra room in the toe box, breathable materials, and anti-slip features.

The five open-toe shoes featured in this article are all great options for you if you have diabetes and can also help treat other foot conditions too.

Please consult your doctor, podiatrist (foot doctor), or health care provider if you have any more questions regarding diabetes and proper diabetic footwear.

References and sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetic-neuropathy/symptoms-causes/syc-20371580

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/peripheral-artery-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20350557