Standing on your feet for hours on end, walking for extended periods, or working out a little too hard can leave your feet feeling tired and sore. Most people bounce right back, but what happens when you don’t? What happens when you have a condition known as drop foot? And what are the best shoes for drop foot?
Worry not, we’re bringing you everything you need to know about the aches and pressures your feet suffer from on a regular.
Whether you’ve gotten the drop foot diagnosis from a podiatrist or you’ve done your fair share of Googling, you might be wondering about the prospects of getting some pain relief from the right footwear.
Before we tackle the tips and tricks you need to get your hands on the right kicks, we do need to brush over a few details about the condition. We can assume you’ve heard of the condition beforehand, but you might not be up to speed on the condition’s symptoms and causes. Well, we are.
What causes drop foot?
Drop foot, also known as foot drop, describes a condition that prevents you from lifting or moving your feet and toes.
Depending on the severity of the condition, drop foot might cause problems when you’re walking. Because you can’t lift the front of your foot, you might need to lift your leg higher to avoid tripping or rubbing your toes against the ground.
But what causes drop foot? When you damage a specific nerve that runs down your leg and controls your muscles, you might start experiencing symptoms of drop foot.
Sports trauma, crossing your legs too often, kneeling or squatting for extended periods, nerve problems caused by diabetes, hip or knee replacement surgery, and a sedentary lifestyle can cause nerve damage and lead to drop foot.
Now, some of the most common symptoms of a drop foot are difficulty walking, dragging your toes on the ground, numbness, swelling, curled toes, loss of sensation, and weakness.
We urge you to contact your doctor the moment you start experiencing these symptoms. Drop foot can be treated, but the damage can be permanent, too.
How to choose the right footwear to alleviate pressure caused by drop foot?
Sneakers, sneakers, sneakers! Most athletic footwear features plenty of padding, support, and protection that’s going to prevent you from causing more damage to your feet.
Moreover, highly-cushioned, rocker-soled sneakers are the perfect fit for you because they’re going to alleviate some of that pressure off of your feet. Not to mention that soft, stable, and shock-absorbent sneakers with proper arch and ankle support are going to make a world of difference, too.
What are you supposed to wear when you’re going to work, grabbing brunch with friends, or going about your business not wanting to look like you’re running a marathon?
Super supportive sandals, of course. Nowadays, there are plenty of options to choose from, whether you’re on the hunt for supportive sneakers, sandals, or slides. We’re bringing you a few of our favorites to make the hunt easier. What are you waiting for – get your wallet up and running ASAP!
What are the best shoes for drop foot?
1. Hoka One One Clifton 9
Why don’t we start with a sneaker that earned a seal of approval from the American Podiatric Medical Association?
Hoka One One Clifton 9 sneakers are on to something – they’re breathable and lightweight, cushioned for comfort, and made with rubber outsoles to prevent slipping and falling. On top of that, they’re equipped with a few favorable features that guarantee to get you through the day.
With compression-molded EVA foam midsoles, a gusseted tongue, and naturally stable geometry, these sneakers are what dreams are made of.
2. Asics Gel-Nimbus 24
Asics knows what’s up, right? When you’re trying to get your hands on the best shoes for drop foot, don’t sleep on Asics Gel-Nimbus 24 sneakers. We already know that athletic footwear provides ultimate support for your tired, sore feet, but Asics sneakers go a step further.
They’re highly cushioned, pillowy, and springy, which sounds like the best sensation ever. They’re lightweight and breathable. And, they’re comfortable. Oh and, even though they’re made of cotton candy (we’re kidding), they’re super supportive and stable.
3. OrthoFeet Verve
When you’re on the hunt for orthopedic footwear but you want to keep the relaxed, stylish design of athletic shoes, you can check out these OrthoFeet Verve sneakers.
We’d argue that they’re the most on-trend orthopedic sneakers out there – which could be a plus, depending on what you’re searching for.
Other than good looks, these sneakers offer a myriad of features that promise to keep you comfortable.
Removable orthotics offer enough arch and ankle support to keep your feet grounded all day long. The wide frame ensures your feet have enough wiggle room. And, the heel strap keeps your feet supported and protected no matter how hard you drag them down.
4. Dr. Comfort Theresa
Comfortable and cute – that’s how we’d describe Dr. Comfort Theresa sneakers.
Whether you’re searching for the perfect pair of sneakers to wear to the office or trying to accommodate your picky taste, these sneakers might be the right fit for you. Now, they’re great for drop foot because they’re designed for people with foot problems and approved by the Podiatric Medical Association.
They’re made with stable and sturdy rubber outsoles to prevent you from moving your feet too much. They sport a flexible upper, too, to ensure you’re snug all around. We can’t forget about “the hook and loop closure” that keeps you even more safe and secure throughout the day.
5. Skechers Go Joy
Everybody adores Skechers – they’ve earned a reputation for being lightweight, convenient, and wearable.
Whether you’re a middle-aged parent or a student with an active lifestyle, you’ve probably worn your share of Skechers. While you can’t go wrong with any of the styles this brand offers, we can’t recommend Go Joy slip-ons enough.
Needless to say, these sneakers are breathable and lightweight. They’re comfy and cushiony in all the right spots. They’re equipped with plenty of arch and ankle support, too. These are great for people with feet problems because you barely notice you’re wearing them – that’s how amazing they are.
6. APL Techloom Bliss
APL Techloom Bliss sneakers are what we like to call “on point.”
They’re a fashion statement no matter where you wear them – on your morning run, on a city stroll, or to the office. They’re made with high-quality, hard-wearing fabrics that promise to last a long time.
They’re made to keep your feet supported. From a neutral base and a snug, satin strap over the upper, to APL’s signature Propelium technology cushioning, you won’t even notice you’re struggling with drop foot.
We do need to mention that these bad boys cost a pretty penny. They’re worth the money, but the price tag is something to keep in mind.
7. Rykä Daydream
Rykä Daydream sneakers merge fashion and function.
They’re great for everyday activities, but they’re also suitable for running, hiking, and working out. They’re made with thick cushioning for support, shock absorption, and arch and ankle support. They are also equipped with a roomy toe area, a padded heel collar, and mid-foot arch support.
Rykä is known for designing high-quality, durable footwear, which means you can count on these sneakers to last you a long time. And, they’re not even that expensive, especially when they’re on sale.
8. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 might not be the best shoes for drop foot, but they’re pretty freakin’ close.
For starters, they’re recommended by podiatrists for people who suffer from flat feet, plantar fasciitis, weak knees, and other foot-related problems. Further, they’re equipped with a guide railing system that prevents excess side-to-side movement.
On top of that, they sport a mesh upper which means they’re breathable and lightweight – perfect for people who suffer from drop foot.
9. Hush Puppies Leila Quarter strappy sandals
We had to add a few fashionable alternatives for the ladies who don’t want to wear sneakers with dresses and cute outfits. With Hush Puppies Leila Quarter strappy sandals, you won’t have to worry about appearing frumpy on a date – you can speed up your recovery and look like a million bucks at the same time.
These sandals feature a cushioned footbed with memory foam that guarantees to keep your feet happy and healthy for hours. A foot-friendly block heel shouldn’t be a problem, either, but that’s something to discuss with your podiatrist.
10. Orthofeet Mary Janes
Low-cut, rounded-toed doll shoes are everywhere these days and you might be relieved to know you don’t have to give them up – even when you have a drop foot flare-up.
Orthofeet Mary Janes are designed to provide you with support, comfort, and pain relief. With premium orthotic insoles, ergonomic soles, and a soft, smooth interior padded with foam, they’re pretty much made to make your life better.
