A decade or so ago, diabetic sneakers for men and women were not that common. Even today, although it is now commonly used, a lot of people still do not know a lot about diabetic sneakers, such as which ones are the best and how do they actually work. So, if you or your love ones have diabetes and want to know more about them before you purchase one, here are some important facts to keep in mind before you go shopping.

Before you purchase a pair of diabetic sneakers, you might want to know if they really work. Going back to the history of the disease, studies have shown that by mid 90’s there was a significant drop in the rate of amputees among diabetic population. This was due to improved management and treatment of the disease and this includes wearing more comfortable shoes that
allows for improved blood circulation in the foot and extremities. Doctors have started regular foot examination as part of management and treatment of the disease. They also started recommending more comfortable and better fitting shoes to patients. That brought about a demand in diabetic shoes and sneakers.

What makes a sneaker a diabetic sneaker? here are the guidelines that shoemakers follow when making these specialized models:

• The shoes have to have  a full length, heel to toe filler that, when removed, provides a minimum of 3/16 inch of additional depth used to accommodate custom molded or customized inserts
• Are made from leather or other suitable material of equal quality
• Have some form of shoe closure
• Are available in full and half sizes with a minimum of three widths so that the sole is graded to the size and width of the upper portions of the shoes according to the American standard last sizing schedule or its equivalent.

Shoe manufacturers that make Diabetic Sneakers?

There are several shoe manufacturers that make diabetic sneakers. New Balance, Propet and SAS are the manufactures that make the most athletic looking diabetic shoes. Many of these manufacturers also make diabetic boots. Click the link to see our choices for the Best Diabetic Boots for Men and Women.

What makes these shoes different from their ordinary counterparts are that these shoe manufacturers have been able to take the comfort and technology used in their regular shoes  to provide additional comfort and features to protect feet and improve blood circulation (see shoemaker guidelines above). Because of these reasons these shoes will help prevent blisters and wounds, which can be extra problematic for diabetic patients. Additional cushion in the ankle and heel area helps to distribute body weight evenly to prevent injury and pressure points on certain parts of the feet. Diabetic sneakers have come such a long way in terms of style, you will be sure to find an athletic shoe which fits your style and needs.

New Balance 840v3 Men’s Diabetic Sneaker

The New Balance Men’s 840v3 running shoe provides full-length, underfoot cushioning neutral runners and a synthetic/mesh upper for more breathing room when your foot heats up from intense workouts. Available in Silver/Blue, Black/White, and Grey/Red.

New Balance MX623v3 Men’s Diabetic Training Sneaker

The New Balance MX623v3 has been redesigned for maximum comfort, now including features such as reinforced collar foam and a larger ABZORB® heel capsule that cradles your foot while

offering reliable breathability, durability and versatility. This universal colorway is just one of the many colors available. The MX623v3 ranges in sizes up to 20, and width up to 4E.

Propet Men’s Stability Walker Diabetic Sneakers

Propet Men’s Stability Walkers offer soft leather uppers,  rubber sole for secure traction,  Lightweight molded EVA midsole for shock absorption, and a Rocker profile designed to ensure a more natural step. Other features include internal and external heel counters for added support and greater stability.

The cushion orthotic is removable for replacement. Reflective trim is also available for safety whether you enjoy walking at night or early in the morning hours.

SAS Tour Mesh Women’s Diabetic Sneaker

The SAS Tour Mesh Diabetic Sneakers offer a get-ready-for-the-weekend style with athletic function and increased comfort for diabetics. The upper is made of suede and mesh for style and comfort. The closure is a traditional lace-up for a secure fit. A removable SAS CoolStep™ Footbed features an anti-friction lining that provides a cool surface underfoot with a moisture-wicking bottom layer designed to keep your feet cool and dry.

The SAS Tripad® Cushions are designed to comfort all three pressure points: the inside ball, outside ball, and heel for all-day support. The SAS Arcfit™ Heel Stabilizer provides firm yet gentle support on all surface types and the SAS SteadyTrac™ Midsole offers a forepart stabilizer for added lateral stability.

New Balance 940v3 Women’s Diabetic Sneaker

The New Balance 940v3 stability running shoe for women is made for overpronators. Featuring a high-density medial post, T-BEAM technology for torsional stability in the shoe, and full-length ABZORB cushioning to soften each landing. This women’s shoe delivers the perfect combo of support and comfort.

Reviews of this show say that they are true to size, true to width, and offer excellent arch support. Available colors are blue/white, silver/guava or silver/grey.

Drew Flare Women’s Diabetic Sneakers

The Drew Flare Women’s Diabetic Sneaker is suitable for a range of foot conditions, this sporty women’s lace-up athletic shoe has a soft leather and mesh upper for breathable durability. The foam-padded tongue and collar ensure cushioned comfort, while the lace closure and removable, replaceable dual footbeds of the Plus Fitting System® offer a versatile, customized fit.   Rely on the tempered steel shank and medial heel stabilizer to help control lateral foot movement with every step. The lightweight rubber outsole of the Drew Flare casual shoe delivers outstanding traction.

Does Medicare Pay for Diabetic Shoes?

On the practical side, some diabetic shoes may be little bit expensive than ordinary shoes. Patients who have a medical need for them are advised to see if it is covered by their insurance or Medicare. Checking with your healthcare professional is the easiest way to find out if you meet all of the criteria. Also, diabetic shoe models that are reimbursable have to carry the HCPCS Code A5500 in their description. All of the shoes listed in this article are eligible for Medicare reimbursement. For additional information, also check the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services website. Patients are recommended to discuss this with their doctors to see if a pair of diabetic shoes may be reimbursed as part of a personalized care plan.