Constructed with breathable mesh and 44% recycled materials, these popular sneakers from On Running feature “cushioning to increase shock absorption and comfort” and are designed “to reduce the energy required for forward motion,” notes Anne Sharkey, D.P.M., a podiatrist at North Austin Foot & Ankle Institute. “These features make this a shoe that is comfortable for walking and everyday activities like errands and shopping,” she says. These sneakers are also lightweight and feature a molded heel design that holds your feet securely in place, making it a great pick for those with neuropathy experiencing balance issues. Not to mention: They’re also designed with a speed lacing system, as opposed to traditional laces, which may be easier for those experiencing neuropathy in their hands. What the reviews say: Shoppers rave that they feel like “walking on a cloud.” One Zappos customer wrote, “I have peripheral neuropathy…I am amazed at how much better the Cloud 5 feels than any other shoe I have. I didn’t think anything would improve my PN for walking, but these do.” The Brooks Ghost 16 sneakers are a consistent favorite of podiatrists and Prevention editors, even landing on our list of the best Brooks shoes for walking and for plantar fasciitis. “This is a go-to recommendation for me for those with neutral foot type. The Ghost offers cushioning and support,” Sharkey previously said. In fact, they boast the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) for promoting good foot health, thanks to their soft, lightweight cushioning and an enhanced, breathable upper. “Smooth ride is an understatement. From push-off to standing still, these non-rockers ensure I go bounce-free and that my feet stay supported but stable,” wrote our Deputy Editor Emily Goldman in her in-depth review of these sneakers. Our Senior Commerce Editor, Charlotte Lewis Finigan, also put them to a 50-mile test and said: “Its lightweight design and balanced cushioning gives it a grounded feel that makes walking, running, and any kind of activity feel comfortable.” What the reviews say: “Finally!! Shoes that don’t hurt my neuropathic feet!” an Amazon shopper said. “I have an extremeely hard time finding shoes due to the severe neuropathy in my feet… These shoes are the best! The cushion, arch support, bottom grip—awesome! These are the first shoes in a long time that I’ve actually been able to wear straight out of the box with no issues.” The Skechers Ultra Flex 3.0 Smooth Step sneakers come in a laceless, slip-on design, which makes them easy for those with balance issues—as well as those with neuropathy in their hands—to slip on and off quickly. Additionally, they further help balance issues with a heel pillow that helps hold your foot securely in place, along with a flexible traction outsole that helps prevent slips and falls. Designed with a cushioned memory foam insole that provides comfort in every step, these shoes are also constructed with a stretchy knit upper that provides “sock-like comfort”—great for preventing any irritation, rubbing, and pressure on neuropathic feet. What the reviews say: “These shoes are more than I had hoped for. I was able to walk in them and the arch support helped so much,” shared one Amazon shopper. “My balance is really off due to the neuropathy, I have one foot with a hammertoe and the other toes are attempting to fold under my foot. These shoes certainly were a plus helping me walk…I cannot recommend them enough.” Shoes with good cushioning are crucial for those with neuropathy—and when it comes to cushioning, Hoka sneakers can’t be beat. The Bondi sneakers in particular have long been one of our top podiatrist-approved picks—with Sharkey noting that they’re “well-cushioned” and offer “neutral stability”—and the new Bondi 9s are no exception. The updated model boasts even more cloud-like cushioning with a plusher insole and increased stack height, along with a breathable knit upper, a wide toe box, and a 3D molded collar for extra ankle stability. The ultra-cushioned sneakers are also a new favorite of Prevention editors. Senior Commerce Editor Charlotte Lewis Finigan called them “a perfectly cushioned dream” in her in-depth review, writing: “My foot felt like it was being wrapped in a marshmallow, but somehow I didn’t lose any of the midsole support in my arches.” What the reviews say: Reviewers also love the Bondi 9 sneakers and say they’re great for neuropathy. “Fantastic cushioning and support. I bought these as go-to shoes for walking and being on my feet for extended periods,” one shopper shared. “I have neuropathy and chronic pain in both feet and these shoes are the most comfortable I have ever worn.” The Dr. Comfort brand is known for their comfy diabetic shoes that are specifically designed to support those who experience painful or sensitive feet or diabetic foot complications—and their Refresh sneakers are no exception. These ultra-lightweight cross-trainers feature a unique arch stabilizer for enhanced support, along with a breathable mesh upper, a protective toe box, and a firm heel counter for extra support and stability. They’re also designed with a convenient toggle closure system that’s easy to adjust, eliminating the need for tying and untying laces. Available in wide and extra wide sizes, these shoes also come with removable Insoles to accommodate your own orthotics. What the reviews say: “Best shoes ever for my hurting feet! I have psoriatic arthritis and nerve damage in my feet and could not believe the instant relief this wonderful shoes provided me!” one Amazon customer raved. “The shoe fits perfectly if you’re a diabetic with neuropathy—these are the absolute perfect shoes,” another wrote. If you’re struggling with finding a dress shoe that’s neuropathy approved, don’t worry. Most dress shoes are known to be uncomfortably tight because of their narrow (often pointy!) toe boxes, high heels, and little-to-no cushion — all things that can aggravate neuropathy by causing bunions, blisters, and hindering circulation. But this ultra-lightweight slip on from Munroe is anything but. It’s made from moisture-wicking, breathable fabric to help your circulation, and the sole isn’t just flexible but also shock absorbing to help prevent unnecessary pressure. In addition, the Traveler has a removable footbed, meaning you can replace the insole with a more ortho-friendly one, should you need. Best of all? Its chic shape and looks polished enough to go with your best little black dress, all while feeling like your most comfortable pair of slippers. Oh, and did we mention it also comes in wide widths? What the reviews say: “Because I have neuropathy, finding shoes that are comfortable but somewhat stylish, has been next to impossible. I decided to give the Munros a try because of the stretchy fabric and I couldn’t be happier,” wrote a Zappos customer. “I have been buying wide widths and adding a 1/2 size larger because of the nerve pain, but with these I was able to come down to the size I had usually worn…I’m thrilled I can wear them to social events without being in pain!” Bailey recommends any of the rocker-style shoes from Alegria as an excellent choice to “help decrease symptoms of peripheral neuropathy.” While traditional soles tend to be slightly curved, the rocker-style sole has a steep curve on both the heel and toe that helps promote a natural rocking motion with each step to reduce plantar pressure and alleviate foot pain before it starts. Alegria offers a vast selection of wide toe box styles, including this adjustable-strap slip on shoe. In addition to its doctor-approved rocker sole, its cushioned footbed has an extra-padded heel for unbeatable comfort. Made of the brand’s signature Dream Fit knit, the slip-on shoe is easy to get on, and the adjustable strap allows for extra customization. What the reviews say: “These shoes are stylish and comfortable! I have two different pairs and they fit perfectly,” said one shopper. “I have high arches and typically wear orthotics but the arch support in these are perfect with no need for additional support.” The Naot Adonis sneakers are a “great choice” for those with neuropathy, says Oldani. “The cork and latex footbed has a built-in metatarsal pad to reduce pressure across the ball of the foot. The rubber and foam sole absorbs shock with each step,” he explains. “Also, I like the knit material that can accommodate and conform to deformities, such as bunions and hammertoes.” Along with the cushy insole and a breathable, flexible knit upper that’s great for sensitive feet, these stylish everyday sneakers also come in a slip-on style with fixed, decorative laces and pull tabs, allowing for easy on and off. Plus, the spacious, round toe design gives you a comfortable fit without any irritation or rubbing—an important feature for those who may be experiencing diminished or heightened sensation from neuropathy. What the reviews say: “Good looking comfort. Finding a stylish, comfortable and supportive shoe can be challenging. This shoe hits the trifecta,” wrote one Naot customer who rated it a perfect five stars. Specifically designed to provide pain relief for foot pain, these shoes from OrthoComfoot are made with an orthotic insole that offers strong arch support and shock-absorbing, pillow-like cushioning. They come in an easy, stylish loafer style that’s convenient for those with neuropathy to slip on and off. With a lightweight and flexible EVA midsole, these shoes also feature a breathable canvas upper and a durable rubber outsole for stability and slip resistance. They’re great to wear as both outdoor shoes while you’re running errands and indoor slippers while you’re in the house. What the reviews say: “I have ordered many shoes and had to send them back looking for something with enough support for my plantar fasciitis and neuropathy. This shoe is finally the one!” wrote one Amazon customer. “I can wear it around the house all day and it feels great. It even came with a separate pair of inserts that I can use in other shoes that I wear outside and they feel better than ever.” Recommended by Oldani, Orthofeet’s Coral Stretch Knit sneakers “feature a wider-than-average toe box as well as a knit upper that will reduce pressure on those with hammertoes and bunions,” he says. The soft, padded interior and stretchy knit upper provides for a comfortable, flexible fit that eases pressure on sensitive feet—while a grippy rubber outsole and a rocker in the cushioning helps provide stability for those experiencing balance issues. These athletic shoes are also designed with removable orthotic insoles that offer great anatomical arch support. And did we mention they’re available in multiple widths on the brand’s site, including narrow, wide, and extra wide sizes, to accommodate every type of fit? What the reviews say: “I absolutely love these shoes… I have neuropathy, plantar fasciitis, constant pain and numbness in both feet. I have tried many shoes and these are by far the best I have walked in,” raved an Amazon customer. “I couldn’t believe how wonderful these shoes were and how comfortable they were. These shoes didn’t rub or chafe or put stress on any part of my feet throughout the whole day! By far the best I’ve had.” Looking for a comfy pair of walking sandals to wear during warmer months? These top-rated orthopedic sandals provide great cushioning that’s ideal for those with foot pain and sensitive feet, thanks to premium orthotic insoles that have built-in anatomical arch support. They’re also designed with three adjustable straps at the heel, forefoot, and instep to ensure a comfy, secure fit—with a two-way strap system that allows for easy on and off. Plus, the soft, stretchable interiors have foam padding to prevent irritation and painful rubbing. Last, they’re available in wide and extra wide sizes. What the reviews say: “Happy feet! I suffer from neuropathy and need comfortable shoes, and these well-padded and attractive sandals have made a huge difference in my walking ability,” shared one Amazon customer. According to our experts, the most common symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include numbness, tingling, burning, shooting and stabbing pain. Bailey adds that “more severe symptoms include a complete lack of sensation, tactile hallucination, extreme sensitivity to touch and even intractable pain,” depending on how severe the nerve damage is. ✔️ Look for good cushioning and shock absorption. “Generally speaking, those with neuropathy need shoes that provide shock absorption and cushioning through the heel and under the ball of the foot,” says Oldani. ✔️ Opt for roomy toe boxes and flexible uppers. “Shoes with a taller and wider toe box can be helpful to avoid rubbing sores that lead to complications,” Oldani notes. Sharkey also recommends looking for uppers that are “made with materials that are flexible and non-constrictive”—including toe boxes that are “made of mesh or breathable fabric that has flexibility and give to accommodate for different foot shapes.” ✔️ Choose a durable rubber outsole. Neuropathy can cause numbness or weakness in your feet, which can lead to balancing issues—and therefore leave you prone to accidents. To address this, Sharkey recommends looking for a rubber outsole for traction to avoid slips and falls. ✔️ Make sure that it’s the right fit. “It is imperative that shoes fit adequately,” says Sharkey. “With altered sensation, care should be taken to make sure shoes are not too tight and that there isn’t any debris or material in the shoes that could rub and cause blisters and open wounds.” When it comes to the type of shoe that is best for neuropathy, experts generally recommend athletic shoes or sneakers that are designed for walking. “Walking shoes are the perfect mix of function and comfort. They are constructed to provide stability throughout the gait cycle,” explains Sharkey. Whatever kind of shoe you’re shopping for, it’s important to look for good cushioning and shock absorption, as well as a wide toe box. You can also opt to add in orthotic shoe inserts to further improve foot pain. “Sometimes the best choice is to pair a cushioned shoe with a roomy toe box with an accommodative type insert to evenly distribute pressure,” notes Oldani. Another great option for alleviating pressure is a shoe with a rock heel. “Rocker-style outsoles possess a sturdy sole with special shaping at both the heel and toe to promote a natural rocking motion with each step thus reducing plantar pressure,” adds Bailey. There are several different factors that can worsen or exacerbate neuropathy in your feet. “Neuropathy can be aggravated by uncontrolled blood sugar levels in diabetics. Vitamin deficiencies can also affect nerve function,” Sharkey explains. Another factor that certainly doesn’t help with neuropathy symptoms? Wearing uncomfortable, poor-fitting shoes—which is why finding the right pair of supportive, well-cushioned shoes is so important. “While neuropathy cannot worsen due to shoes, having poor shoes can absolutely wreak havoc for those who suffer from neuropathy,” notes Sharkey. Having shoes that allow for proper circulation is key. “Wearing shoes that are too tight exacerbate neuropathy symptoms by compressing the nerves in the feet [and can] worsen pre-existing foot deformities, cause blisters, corns or calluses to develop,” says Bailey. We consulted Timothy Oldani, D.P.M., F.A.C.F.A.S., a podiatrist at Missouri Foot and Ankle, Anne Sharkey, D.P.M., a podiatrist at North Austin Foot & Ankle Institute, and Porscha J. Bailey, D.P.M., D.A.B.P.M., F.A.E.N.S., a podiatrist at Fort Defiance Indian Hospital. We also evaluated countless online ratings, reviews, and product specs to narrow down the best shoes for neuropathy as well as included Prevention editor testing results. For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Additionally, Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.