Recommended Walking Footwear for Senior Citizens, Suggested by Podiatrists
In recent expert reviews and recommendations from podiatrists in 2025, a selection of walking shoes have emerged as top choices for older adults. These shoes prioritise cushioning, support, stability, and accommodating foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis and arthritis.
Among the highly recommended options are:
1. **Brooks Addiction Walker 2** - Ideal for individuals with plantar fasciitis, heel pain, and high arches. - Key features include a wide sole, firm arch and heel support, and a removable liner for custom insoles. - Pros: Offers maximum support with balanced cushioning, suitable for everyday wear and long walks. - Cons: May require a break-in period due to initial stiffness. - Endorsed by podiatrist Matthew Galliano, DPM, for extra arch support and foot inflammation relief.
2. **Hoka Bondi** - Recommended for those with arthritis, plantar fasciitis, and general joint discomfort. - Standout features include ultra-plush maximal cushioning, anatomical design, and a meta-rocker for smooth gait. - Benefits: Absorbs impact effectively, reducing pain in knees, hips, and feet; provides a soft, "walking on clouds" feel. - Favoured by multiple podiatrists for joint pain relief and comfort during walking.
3. **Vionic Walk Max Lace Up Sneaker** - Suitable for those with plantar fasciitis and those needing superior cushioning and stability. - Notable features include plush cushioning with extra arch and heel support, a lightweight EVA midsole, and the APMA Seal of Acceptance. - Pros: Provides shock absorption, excellent stability, no break-in period needed, and increased ankle support. - Ideal for daily walking and various surfaces, offering comfort that reduces foot and joint pain.
These shoes aim to provide **comfort, support, and pain relief**, crucial elements for maintaining mobility and reducing discomfort during walking for older adults. It's essential to consider personal foot type and any specific conditions, and getting professionally fitted can optimise shoe choice further.
Additional recommendations include the Women's Dr. Comfort Victory shoe, the New Balance 990v56 shoe, the Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit sneaker, and the Saucony Omni Walker 3 shoe. However, further information about these shoes, such as specific technological advancements, unique selling points, or pricing, was not provided in the given text.
Shoes like the Brooks Addiction Walker 2, Hoka Bondi, and Vionic Walk Max Lace Up Sneaker offer significant benefits for health and wellness, specifically for older adults who require aid due to conditions such as plantar fasciitis and arthritis. Science plays a key role in enhancing these shoes' features, with advancements in cushioning technology that prioritizes comfort and support. Furthermore, the fitness and exercise industry recognizes these shoes as valuable resources for maintaining one's health, considering their role in promoting pain relief and overall comfort.