Ultimate Guide to Diabetic Shoes in the UK: Comfort, Support, and Foot Health

Living with diabetes comes with its challenges — and foot care is one of the most important. In the UK alone, thousands of people with diabetes are at risk of foot complications that can lead to ulcers, infections, or worse. The good news? The right diabetic shoes can help prevent those problems before they start.

If you’ve ever struggled to find the right pair or wondered whether special shoes are worth it, this guide breaks it all down — from what diabetic shoes UK are to where to find the best ones in the UK.

???? Why Diabetic Shoes Matter

Diabetic shoes (also known as therapeutic or orthopaedic shoes) are designed to:

• Reduce pressure points on sensitive areas

• Minimize friction and prevent blisters or sores

• Accommodate foot deformities like bunions or hammertoes

• Promote circulation and comfort for swollen or neuropathic feet

They often feature extra width, seamless interiors, shock-absorbing soles, and adjustable fastenings (Velcro is a favourite).

???????? What Makes Diabetic Shoes Ideal for UK Customers?

In the UK, foot care is a priority for many with diabetes, especially given our variable weather and need for both indoor comfort and outdoor support. Good diabetic shoes here should offer:

• Breathable yet warm materials for year-round wear

• Water resistance for rainy days

• Non-slip soles for safety on slick pavements

• Wide fit options, including EE and beyond

Luckily, there are excellent options available from both UK-based brands and international ones that ship locally.

????️ Where to Buy Diabetic Shoes in the UK

Here are some of the best retailers and brands to consider:

1. Cosyfeet

• Made in the UK, designed specifically for wide and swollen feet

• Styles for both men and women

• Many options are diabetic-friendly, with seam-free linings and extra depth

• cosyfeet.com

2. Wider Fit Shoes UK

• Specialists in shoes from EE to 8E width

• Footwear designed for diabetes, arthritis, and oedema

• Excellent customer service for fittings and advice

• widerfitshoes.co.uk

3. Amazon UK

• Large range of diabetic shoes from brands like Orthofeet, FitVille, and Dr. Keller

• Convenient delivery and easy returns

• Check reviews carefully for sizing and fit

4. Healthy Steps (UK Retailer)

• Focus on orthopaedic and podiatrist-recommended shoes

• Offers Orthofeet, Waldläufer, and other trusted diabetic-friendly brands

• healthysteps.co.uk

???? Top Diabetic Shoe Brands Available in the UK

✅ What to Look for in Diabetic Shoes

Not all “comfortable” shoes are diabetic-friendly. Look for the following features:

• Seam-free interior to reduce irritation

• Extra depth and width to accommodate swelling

• Adjustable closures like Velcro or elastic laces

• Shock-absorbing soles for joint and heel protection

• Removable insoles in case you use custom orthotics

• Non-slip outsoles to reduce fall risk

Tip: If you wear orthotics or have a unique foot shape, try brands that offer extra-deep and extra-wide options, like Cosyfeet or FitVille.

???? Bonus Tips for Diabetic Foot Care

Your shoes are just one part of the equation. Here are a few extra tips to protect your feet:

• Inspect your feet daily for cuts, redness, or swelling

• Wash and moisturise daily (but avoid putting lotion between toes)

• Wear seamless, moisture-wicking socks

• Never go barefoot, even at home

• Rotate shoes to allow them to air out and retain shape

???? Final Thoughts

Diabetic shoes aren’t just about comfort — they’re a key part of managing your health. Whether you’re dealing with swelling, neuropathy, or simply looking for shoes that feel better, the UK market offers some excellent solutions.

With more stylish options than ever and brands that truly cater to wide and sensitive feet, there's never been a better time to invest in shoes that support your every step.