Swollen feet can be an uncomfortable foot condition that can be caused by several factors, including pregnancy, standing, edema, circulatory issues, or even hot weather. Finding footwear to accommodate swollen feet can be a challenge. Specialty footwear does exist to manage this uncomfortable and often painful foot condition. Swollen feet can also vary from day-to-day. Some days your feet may be very swollen and other days your feet may seem completely normal. This makes finding the perfect shoe a challenge. In this article, we will explore shoe features that help manage swollen feet.
Key Shoe Features for Swollen Feet
When shopping, whether online or in person, be sure to look for certain features that will help address swollen feet. They include:
- Adjustable Fit – Shoes that have adjustable features like elastic laces, Velcro straps, or expandable panels will help accommodate varying levels of swelling. These straps will allow you to control the level of snugness on your foot.
- Wide Toe Box – A wider toe box will leave plenty of space for your toes to spread out and be placed in their natural position. Wide toe boxes will help improve comfort, circulation and provide extra room for swollen feet.
- Soft or Stretchable Materials – Materials that provide give, such as mesh, neoprene or exceptionally soft leather can conform to your feet and provide snugness without feeling tight. When dealing with edema, the soft and stretchable material can be a lifesaver.
- Cushioned Insoles – Insoles can provide proper arch support and cushioning to relieve any pain in the foot. By providing cushion, the insoles will adapt to the changing shape of a swollen foot.
- Easy On and Off – Shoes that accommodate Swollen feet must consider the difficult nature of putting on and taking off shoes. Often the shoes are designed to open very wide and allow a swollen foot to easily glide in and out of a shoe. This feature is important to accommodate the size of a swollen foot but also the comfort as well.
Top Shoe Recommendation for Swollen Feet
- Orthofeet Stretchable Shoes – Orthofeet is known for orthopedic footwear, and they offer a line of stretchable shoes that accommodate edema and swollen feet
- Propet Stretchable Shoes – Propet has a variety of shoes that include slippers, casual shoes, Mary Janes, and others.
- Apis/Mt Emey Shoes – Apis has shoes specifically designed for people dealing with chronic edema in the feet.