Still not sure what the best walking shoes for rheumatoid arthritis are? Well, The best walking shoes for rheumatoid arthritis include the Brooks Addiction Walker for its stability, New Balance 928v3 for superior support, Orthofeet Coral for women’s comfort, ASICS Gel-Quantum 180 for shock absorption, and Saucony Grid Omni Walker for arch support, as each offers exceptional cushioning and joint relief.

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can make finding the right walking shoes a crucial part of managing pain and maintaining mobility.
• The right pair of shoes provides support, cushioning, and stability, reducing joint stress and enhancing comfort.

This article explores the best walking shoes for rheumatoid arthritis, each carefully selected and reviewed to meet specific needs. We’ll dive into the features, pros, and cons of each shoe, ensuring you have all the information you need to make an informed choice.

Reviews: 10 Best Walking Shoes For Rheumatoid Arthritis

1. Brooks Addiction Walker- Best walking shoes for rheumatoid arthritis and plantar fasciitis

The Brooks Addiction Walker is a top choice for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis and plantar fasciitis. These shoes offer a unique blend of support and cushioning that helps alleviate pain and provides stability. The extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar (PDRB) supports your entire body, aligning your stride for a natural motion. The BioMoGo DNA cushioning adapts to your stride, weight, and speed, providing customized comfort.

The Brooks Addiction Walker also features a durable, slip-resistant outsole, ensuring you stay steady on various surfaces. With a leather upper that offers a classic look and feel, these shoes are both functional and stylish. They are designed to support low arches, making them perfect for individuals who need extra support.

Pros:

• Excellent support
• Customizable cushioning
• Durable outsole
• Classic leather look
• Supports low arches
• Slip-resistant
• High stability

Cons:

• Heavy
• Expensive
• Break-in period

2. New Balance 928v3-Top-rated supportive walking shoes for rheumatoid arthritis

The New Balance 928v3 is renowned for its top-rated support, making it ideal for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. These shoes feature a ROLLBAR stability post system that controls rear-foot movement for enhanced support. The ABZORB cushioning in the midfoot provides exceptional shock absorption, reducing stress on your joints.

The New Balance 928v3 also boasts a comfortable leather upper and a moisture-wicking lining to keep your feet dry. The outsole is made from durable rubber, providing excellent traction on various surfaces. These shoes are available in a range of widths, ensuring a perfect fit for every foot type.

Pros:

• Superior support
• Shock absorption
• Durable outsole
• Moisture-wicking
• Available in wide sizes
• Comfortable leather upper
• Good traction

Cons:

• Heavy
• Expensive
• Can be stiff

3. Orthofeet Coral-Comfortable walking shoes for women with rheumatoid arthritis

The Orthofeet Coral is specifically designed to be the most comfortable walking shoe for women with rheumatoid arthritis. These shoes feature an orthotic insole with anatomical arch support and cushioning heel pads that conform to the contours of your foot. This helps to alleviate pain at the heel, foot, knees, and lower back.

The Coral also has a lightweight sole with air cushioning, adding spring to your step without adding weight. The soft, seam-free interior lining, padded with foam, provides superior comfort and protection for sensitive feet. Additionally, the extra-depth design and wide toe box prevent pressure on bunions and hammertoes.

Pros:

• Excellent arch support
• Cushioned heel pads
• Lightweight
• Seam-free interior
• Wide toe box
• Comfortable fit
• Great for sensitive feet

Cons:

• Not very stylish
• Expensive
• Limited color options

4. ASICS Gel-Quantum 180-Best men’s walking shoes for rheumatoid arthritis relief

The ASICS Gel-Quantum 180 is one of the best men’s walking shoes for rheumatoid arthritis relief. These shoes feature ASICS’ signature GEL technology for maximum shock absorption, reducing the impact on your joints. The Solyte midsole material provides lightweight cushioning and durability.

The seamless construction of the Gel-Quantum 180 minimizes the risk of irritation and friction caused by traditional stitches and seams. The shoe’s ortholite lasting material ensures a snug and comfortable fit. Additionally, the high-abrasion rubber outsole provides excellent traction and durability, making these shoes suitable for various terrains.

Pros:

• Excellent shock absorption
• Lightweight cushioning
• Seamless construction
• Snug fit
• Durable outsole
• Great traction
• Reduces joint impact

Cons:

• Expensive
• Can be narrow
• Limited color options

5. Saucony Grid Omni Walker-Walking shoes with arch support for rheumatoid arthritis sufferers

The Saucony Grid Omni Walker is perfect for rheumatoid arthritis sufferers who need walking shoes with arch support. These shoes feature the Saucony GRID system, which provides superior cushioning and stability. The Walk-Trac patented outsole design offers a smooth transition from heel to toe, enhancing your walking experience.

The Grid Omni Walker has a full-grain leather upper that provides durability and a secure fit. The HRC Strobel Board increases cushioning and comfort, while the forefoot Stretch Zone ensures a custom fit. These features combine to offer a supportive, comfortable shoe that helps reduce pain and improve mobility.

Pros:

• Excellent arch support
• Superior cushioning
• Durable leather upper
• Smooth transition
• Custom fit
• Comfortable
• Enhances mobility

Cons:

• Heavy
• Not very breathable
• Limited flexibility

6. Hoka One One Bondi 7-Lightweight walking shoes for rheumatoid arthritis pain

The Hoka One One Bondi 7 is known for being a lightweight walking shoe that helps alleviate rheumatoid arthritis pain. These shoes feature an EVA midsole that provides excellent cushioning and support. The Meta-Rocker technology encourages a smooth heel-to-toe transition, reducing the strain on your joints.

The Bondi 7 has a breathable mesh upper with a memory foam collar that adapts to your ankle, providing a comfortable fit. The shoe’s rubber outsole offers durability and traction on various surfaces. These features make the Bondi 7 a great choice for those seeking lightweight, comfortable walking shoes.

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Excellent cushioning
• Smooth transition
• Breathable mesh
• Memory foam collar
• Durable outsole
• Comfortable fit

Cons:

• Expensive
• Can be bulky
• Limited color options

7. Vionic Walker Classic-Orthopedic walking shoes for rheumatoid arthritis patients

The Vionic Walker Classic is an excellent choice for rheumatoid arthritis patients seeking orthopedic walking shoes. These shoes feature a podiatrist-designed orthotic footbed that provides superior arch support and helps realign your feet to their natural position. The durable EVA midsole reduces stress on your feet, ankles, and knees.

The Walker Classic also has a breathable, moisture-wicking lining to keep your feet dry and comfortable. The shoe’s rubber outsole provides excellent traction, making it suitable for various surfaces. The full-grain leather upper adds to the shoe’s durability and provides a secure fit.

Pros:

• Superior arch support
• Reduces stress
• Breathable lining
• Durable outsole
• Secure fit
• Orthotic footbed
• Realigns feet

Cons:

• Heavy
• Expensive
• Break-in period

8. Skechers GOwalk Joy-Best cushioned walking shoes for rheumatoid arthritis

The Skechers GOwalk Joy is among the best-cushioned walking shoes for rheumatoid arthritis. These shoes feature a 5GEN midsole cushioning that provides a high level of comfort and support. The Goga Max insole offers additional cushioning and energy return, enhancing your walking experience.

The GOwalk Joy also has a breathable mesh upper that keeps your feet cool and comfortable. The flexible rubber outsole provides good traction and durability. These shoes are lightweight, making them ideal for all-day wear and reducing fatigue.

Pros:

• High-level cushioning
• Breathable mesh
• Lightweight
• Good traction
• Flexible outsole
• Comfortable fit
• Reduces fatigue

Cons:

• Not very supportive
• Limited arch support
• May wear out quickly

9. Propet Stability Walker-Affordable walking shoes for rheumatoid arthritis support

The Propet Stability Walker is known for being an affordable option for those seeking walking shoes for rheumatoid arthritis support. These shoes feature a contoured EVA midsole with built-in arch support and a heel stabilizer for added stability. The padded collar and tongue provide extra comfort.

The Stability Walker has a leather upper that offers durability and a secure fit. The shoe’s rubber outsole provides excellent traction and durability, making it suitable for various surfaces. These features make the Stability Walker a great choice for those seeking affordable, supportive walking shoes.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Built-in arch support
• Padded collar
• Durable leather upper
• Good traction
• Secure fit
• Added stability

Cons:

• Heavy
• Not very breathable
• Can be stiff

10. Merrell Encore Q2 Breeze-Best walking shoes for seniors with rheumatoid arthritis

The Merrell Encore Q2 Breeze is ideal for seniors with rheumatoid arthritis seeking the best walking shoes. These shoes feature Q FORM 2 dual-density midsole with heel-centering technology for gender-engineered alignment and comfort. The Kinetic Fit Tri insole provides light support to all three arches of the foot.

The Encore Q2 Breeze has a breathable mesh upper that keeps your feet cool and comfortable. The rubber outsole offers excellent traction and durability, making these shoes suitable for various surfaces. These features combine to make the Encore Q2 Breeze a top choice for seniors with rheumatoid arthritis.

Pros:

• Dual-density midsole
• Heel-centering technology
• Light support
• Breathable mesh
• Excellent traction
• Durable outsole
• Comfortable fit

Cons:

• Expensive
• Limited color options
• Can be narrow

Best Walking Shoes For Rheumatoid Arthritis FAQs

1. What features should I look for in walking shoes for rheumatoid arthritis?

Look for features like cushioning, arch support, stability, shock absorption, and a comfortable fit. Shoes with a wide toe box and breathable materials are also beneficial.

2. Can the right walking shoes help with rheumatoid arthritis pain?

Yes, the right walking shoes can help alleviate pain by providing support, cushioning, and reducing stress on the joints.

3. Are there specific brands known for making walking shoes for rheumatoid arthritis?

Yes, brands like Brooks, New Balance, Orthofeet, ASICS, Saucony, Hoka One One, Vionic, Skechers, Propet, and Merrell are known for making supportive and comfortable walking shoes for rheumatoid arthritis.

4. How often should I replace my walking shoes if I have rheumatoid arthritis?

It’s recommended to replace your walking shoes every 300-500 miles or when you notice significant wear and tear, as worn-out shoes can exacerbate pain.

5. Are custom orthotics necessary for rheumatoid arthritis?

Custom orthotics can provide additional support and cushioning tailored to your specific needs, but many high-quality walking shoes offer sufficient support for rheumatoid arthritis.

6. What type of cushioning is best for rheumatoid arthritis?

Look for shoes with EVA or gel cushioning, as these materials provide excellent shock absorption and reduce joint stress.

7. Can I wear running shoes for walking if I have rheumatoid arthritis?

Yes, many running shoes offer the necessary support and cushioning for walking. However, ensure they provide stability and a good fit for your specific needs.

8. Are there specific shoe styles to avoid if I have rheumatoid arthritis?

Avoid shoes with high heels, narrow toe boxes, and minimal cushioning, as these can increase pain and discomfort.

9. How can I ensure a proper fit for my walking shoes?

Try shoes on later in the day when your feet are slightly swollen, wear the socks you plan to use with the shoes, and ensure there’s enough room in the toe box.

10. Is it beneficial to consult a podiatrist for walking shoe recommendations?

Yes, consulting a podiatrist can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific foot structure and arthritis symptoms.

Conclusion

Finding the best walking shoes for rheumatoid arthritis can significantly improve your comfort and mobility. By focusing on shoes that offer excellent support, cushioning, and stability, you can reduce joint stress and alleviate pain. Each of the shoes reviewed in this article provides unique benefits tailored to different needs, ensuring you find the perfect pair for your lifestyle.

Don’t let rheumatoid arthritis hold you back—invest in a pair of high-quality walking shoes and enjoy the benefits of increased comfort and mobility.

Take action now and choose the best walking shoes for your needs. Your feet will thank you for the added support and comfort, making every step a pleasure.