Uh-oh! I guess since you’re here, an unfortunate accident must’ve happened to your feet that ended in surgery. Or if not to you, then it happened to someone close to you. And now you want to know what are the best shoes to wear after foot and ankle surgery, right?
It’s probably not the most incredible experience in the world. I couldn’t even imagine being stuck in bed for several days (or even weeks!) and unable to freely walk whenever and wherever I want. I would spend that whole time sobbing in my bedroom. Call me a drama queen if you wish.
As a teenage girl, my sister had a number of ankle injuries, so I’m quite familiar with the whole experience. However, I’m unable to understand it entirely since it never happened to me directly. All I did was observe the situation as a third party (my mum and my sister being the main characters).
Nevertheless, my sister made sure I was aware of the immense pain she was going through, which I believe was a performance of her life since all she ever wanted from me was to be at her disposal day and night.
“Aria, bring me a glass of water, would you? Aria, go get me a pizza, please. Aria, be an angel and fluff my pillows and massage my legs.”
Serving my sister was no fun for me at the time, but it was a learning experience. Because of her, I started to appreciate my legs and actually became grateful for the lack of athletic skills I had been granted.
And since my sister discovered she’s prone to foot and ankle injuries, she taught me the importance of high-quality shoes.
So today, I will share my abundant knowledge with you and offer you some I believe to be the best shoes to wear after foot and ankle surgery. I’m sure that, by the end of the article, you’ll find the perfect pair for you!
What are the best shoes to wear after foot and ankle surgery?
There are so many models of high-quality post-op shoes that it is extremely hard and time-consuming to select only a few. So many brands do an amazing job each year of coming out with exceptional footwear suitable for any type of foot recovery.
So, it’s both easy to choose, since there are plenty of options to choose from; and hard to choose, since, again, there are plenty of options to choose from. Ha-ha, I love me some first-world problems!
Luckily for you, there’s no need to frantically scroll through the internet in search of the best shoes to wear after foot and ankle surgery. I’ve already done the tedious work for you!
So, without further ado, let’s see if you like the shoes I picked out for you!
1. BraceAbility Closed Toe Medical Walking Shoe
This pair of recovery shoes will ensure a great amount of support and stability and is perfect to wear after injuries such as fractures, bunions, or hammertoes.
These shoes are big enough for your bandages or cast to fit, and they provide enough room for any potential swelling, a side effect of many foot and ankle surgeries. They come with a square-toe design which means your toes will have more than enough space to be comfortable.
An added bonus is that they have adjustable straps, too!
As a result of their rocker soles’ rigidity and skid protection, these shoes will reduce plantar pressure and allow you to ease back into your gait as soon as possible. And because this is a close-toed model, there’s no need to worry about your bandages and cast getting dirty.
2. MABIS DMI Healthcare Cast Shoe
What makes this model one of the best shoes to wear after foot and ankle surgery is the fact that this is a nylon mesh open-toe design that ensures maximum airflow and breathability.
The insoles of these shoes are padded, so they will provide decent support, and the boot part comes with customizable straps. So, you will be able to tighten them per your needs and preferences. Their soles are made to prevent skidding and ensure safe use.
These post-op shoes are extremely lightweight and walking in them will not bore you. Plus, the lovely light-blue color they come in will surely bring some nice oomph to your outfit!
3. Mars Wellness Premium Post-Op Walking Shoe
This model is specifically designed for recovery after surgeries related to toe fractures or any kind of forefoot trauma.
These shoes have a wide square-toe opening with enough padding, so your toes could feel as comfortable as possible while you’re on your journey of regaining your normal toe functions. They also have adjustable straps which you can tweak accordingly to the comfort you desire.
The heel area is padded properly to avoid slippage and achieve the correct foot position. With a rocker design and traction soles, these shoes allow easy walking without putting extra pressure on the heels.
4. United Ortho Short Air Cam Walker Fracture Boot – Black
If you’re looking for the best orthopedic post-op shoes, these might be your new besties! With these shoes, your feet will have the right amount of support they need, and enough room to wiggle, too. This means that, no matter how big or bulky your cast ends up being, it will still fit inside these shoes!
There are shock-absorbing insoles at the front of these shoes that reduce heel strike when walking, while rocker soles at the back allow you to regain your normal gait in comfort.
This model has plastic braces with steel support inside for adequate protection, and air bladder sleeves that provide the right amount of compression. With these ones, your feet will feel extra cozy! No wonder they are considered to be one of the best shoes to wear after foot and ankle surgery!
5. Vive Post Op Shoe
This model of shoes can be your number one option if you’re looking for a little less bulky model, but don’t wish to compromise the support.
These shoes have a square toe opening which provides extra room for both your toes and potential bandages or a cast. The heels have rocker non-skid insoles that ensure great gait support and prevent any potential slipping.
With these shoes, the arches of your feet will be adequately supported, so you’ll be able to enjoy both comfort and stability as you walk.
6. Darco Med-Surg Shoe
This model will surely put an end to the pain you might be feeling and speed up your recovery after foot or ankle surgery!
Darco Med-Surg Shoes are another open-toe model which ensures your toes have enough room. These ones provide maximum support and stability and enough protection from any impacts while you’re walking.
They have double-padded insoles which offer firm support to the soles of your feet. However, those insoles can be removed according to your liking which makes them super customizable and versatile.
Another feature that adds up to the degree of personalization are the adjustable velcro straps which you can tighten or loosen, depending on the level of comfort you desire.
Everyday shoes to wear to speed up the recovery
There’s no doubt that the options listed above are great for a fast recovery after foot or ankle surgery. Especially at the beginning stages!
But, what if you have gone through the critical part of the recovery journey and there’s no need to wear those bulky, overt post-op shoes that scream “I had foot surgery!” What if you wish to wear more stylish, everyday, and “normal” looking shoes that still provide enough support you need?
Yup! Those exist, too! There’s no need to worry about whether those hefty braces will ruin your special occasion or not. If Bella Swan wore a brace and a cast on her right leg when she attended the prom with Edward Cullen, it doesn’t mean you should, too!
Below, I have selected several everyday shoes that can also be considered one of the best shoes to wear after foot and ankle surgery. Let’s see if you fancy any of them!
1. Feetmat Ankle Stability Shoes
These slip-ons are considered to be one of the most comfortable shoes to wear after foot and ankle surgery.
They come with non-slip rubber soles, so you can feel confident enough to step on any kind of surface. The rubber soles also offer strong wear resistance, and they protect the feet by minimizing the chances of ankle sprains.
The uppers of these shoes are made out of woven mesh which ensures good ventilation and maximum breathability. They are also padded with durable memory foam, which allows them to be flexible enough and moisture-wicking, too. No room for stinky feet here!
These ones are available in many colors like all black, black with white soles, red, green, camouflage green, beige, and others. There’s something for everyone!
2. Footfox Shoes For Broken Ankles
Why are these Footfox shoes considered to be one of the best shoes to wear after foot and ankle surgery? Well, it’s because they are easy to slip on and there’s no need to be bothered about lacing them properly. It’s enough to adjust the laces the first time, and you’re good to go!
This is another model whose upper is designed with a breathable mesh which is said to have more than 10,000 small holes. This feature makes them exceptionally well-ventilated, highly stretchable, and flexible.
The insoles of these shoes are extremely soft and provide much-needed support during the recovery stage. They are also moisture-wicking, which is an added plus.
When it comes to their soles, they are made of lightweight materials and are slip-resistant, and have an anti-twist feature, which is a must when it comes to ankle care.
3. GANNOU Women’s Air Athletic Running Shoes
Some people might die fighting for the prestige these shoes deserve. For them, this GANNOU pair represents the ultimate, best shoes to wear after foot and ankle surgery. And personally, I have nothing against their claim.
These colorful shoes have a half an inch platform that will comfortably carry you over any terrain. They have an air cushion design which is incredibly soft and comfortable. You’ll be able to walk in them throughout the day without any pain whatsoever.
They also have non-slip soles, so you won’t have to worry about any potential skidding. These ones will keep you on the ground, for sure!
4. Nike Women’s Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Running Shoes
Many people swear by Nike’s quality and don’t even need to be reassured of how good this brand is. I myself am one of those people. I simply adore Nike, and I found every model to be special and unique in its own way.
And, obviously, this model is no exception! Not only does Nike produce stunning models of shoes, but it also constantly comes out with great post-op footwear.
Featuring a synthetic sole and a smartly-engineered mesh upper with target perforations, these shoes are highly breathable and ventilated. In addition to a slim heel collar and tongue, it also has exposed Flywire cables that provide a cozy fit.
With these shoes, every step will go on smoothly due to the full-length Zoom Air unit. And their sock liners will adapt and mimic the contours of your feet, providing optimal support.
These shoes might be a tad bit too expensive, but look at them as a great investment in your foot health!
5. Rospick Slip On Sneakers
What makes this Rospick model one of the best shoes to wear after foot and ankle surgery is the fact that they are extremely easy to slip in and out of. Their upper is made out of lightweight and breathable mesh, and they have an integrated collar and a low-top silhouette.
These shoes have extremely soft insoles that will make you feel as though you are walking on clouds. And their soles are made out of non-slip rubber which provides bountiful friction while reducing cushioning force.
This model of shoes is also wear-resistant and shock-absorbent, which are some other features that make them perfect post-op everyday shoes!
6. New Balance Women’s Walking Shoes
Let’s be real! I think no person in today’s modern society doesn’t own a pair of white sneakers in the closet. The white shoe trend took us by surprise overnight, and we’re all here for it! And no wonder they’re so popular – they simply go with any outfit and no one can argue with that.
So, it shouldn’t be a surprise that these New Balance beauties made it on our list of best shoes to wear after foot and ankle surgery. They are both stylish and practical – truly the best of both worlds!
With these ones, you won’t have to sacrifice your daily outfits just because of some foot injury! They’ll have your back through thick and thin, for sure.
These shoes are made out of high-quality fabric and have a padded collar and tongue which make them extremely comfortable. Their upper is designed with leather and mesh which are both highly breathable.
Their insoles are cushioned with soft lining which will provide great support to your feet. Their rubber soles are highly durable and will ensure maximum protection.
This model has a slightly taller platform which offers significant support to your ankles.
Another great thing about these New Balance shoes is that they come in a variety of colors, like lynx blue and black. So, if you wish to stand out and add your own personal touch to the global white sneakers trend, another color might be a way to go!
How to choose the best kind of shoes after foot surgery?
After we have gone through the list of the best shoes to wear after foot and ankle surgery, it’s time to mention some general characteristics of high-quality post-op footwear. Maybe the shoes I have selected for you do not suit your fancy, and that’s okay.
We are all entitled to our own opinions and preferences, and you’re allowed to disagree with me. However, remember that when choosing the best shoes to wear after foot and ankle surgery, the importance doesn’t lie in fashion and appearance but rather in quality and adequate support.
First things first, let’s talk about the material. One of the best features to look for is breathable fabrics, like nylon or mesh. Not only will this kind of material ensure proper ventilation and comfort, but it will also make the shoes more flexible and stretchable.
Next thing, you should determine what kind of support you need. Since not every foot injury is the same, the type of shoe you should get depends on the amount of support you need.
Toe fractures will require maximum support around the toe area and also overall stability of the feet. Ankle injuries, on the other hand, will require stability and support around the ankles, preferably with compression too.
The same thing goes with the type of soles of shoes you should opt for. Firm rocker soles are needed when you suffer from serious foot issues, so the muscles can be protected while you regain your gait. In other cases, if the foot requires less amount of support, mid-firm soles will suffice.
Even though your first instinct will be to choose your post-op shoes according to the usual size of your feet, it’s recommended you opt for those that can be adjusted. It’s best to pick shoes with velcro straps or straps with hooks and loops.
This way, you’ll be able to tighten or loosen them depending on the level of your comfort, whether you’re wearing bandages or not or even a cast.
And what about shoes after ankle surgery specifically?
Pretty much the same rules mentioned above apply here, too. However, some things simply have to be emphasized, just so you don’t say I didn’t warn you on time.
First and foremost, say goodbye to your high heels for some time. Give them a nice warm hug, put them in a box, and let them rest for several weeks in your closet.
Generally speaking, high heels put a lot of pressure on your ankles, knees, and joints. In the long run, they can cause some serious damage. When wearing heels, your knees and ankles are trying super hard to balance your body on sometimes the thinnest platforms ever. (I’m looking at you, stilettos!)
So, with a brand-new ankle injury, high heels are a big no-no.
Also, if only your ankle is in the process of recovery, try getting low-top sneakers. Even though high-top ones provide the maximum support, they might restrict ankle movement and ultimately make your ankles less flexible and more prone to injuries.
So, you can maybe combine these two – high-tops at the beginning of your recovery process, and low-tops towards the end. So your feet don’t get spoiled too much!
Read more: Should You Buy A Walking Boot For Plantar Plate Tear?
