Best Shoes for Arthritis UK: Relief for Sore, Stiff Feet

Your feet contain 33 joints each, so it's no surprise they're one of the first places arthritis causes trouble. The three main types affect the feet differently:

• Osteoarthritis (OA): the most common form, caused by wear and tear on cartilage. In the feet, it usually hits the big toe joint (hallux rigidus), the midfoot, or the ankle. Expect stiffness, swelling, and pain that gets worse with activity.
• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): an autoimmune condition that attacks the joint linings. RA often targets the forefoot, causing inflammation that leads to bunions, claw toes, and a widening foot. Over time, the shape of the foot can change considerably.
• Gout: caused by uric acid crystal deposits in the joints. It classically starts at the big toe joint with intense pain, redness, and swelling during flare-ups.

Shoes for arthritis need to protect the foot, support it, and stay comfortable. Here's what matters:

• Stiff sole at the forefoot: limits bending at the toe joints, which cuts pain during push-off. Particularly important if you have OA in the big toe.
• Rocker or curved sole: lets the foot roll through the gait cycle without the toe joints needing to bend. Takes pressure off inflamed joints.
• Wide, deep toe box: essential for RA, where bunions, claw toes, and forefoot widening need extra room.
• Soft, seamless upper: less irritation on swollen or deformed joints. Stretch materials accommodate changes in foot shape and swelling throughout the day.
• Adjustable fastening: Velcro, elastic laces, or hook-and-loop closures let you adjust the fit as swelling changes.
• Extra depth: room for orthotic insoles and clearance over the tops of deformed toes.

A rocker sole has a curved profile from heel to toe. Your foot rolls through the gait cycle without the toe joints needing to bend. If you have arthritis in the forefoot or big toe, this makes a real difference because it's the bending that causes the pain.

Brands that do rocker soles well:

• HOKA: meta-rocker geometry across their running and walking range. The curve is subtle but you feel it.
• MBT: the original rocker sole brand, with a more pronounced curve built for rehabilitation and joint offloading.
• Joya: a Swiss brand with soft, curved soles designed for joint pain relief.

Worth knowing: NHS podiatrists can also fit rocker bars to shoes you already own. These are external modifications bonded to the sole that create a rocker effect. Useful if you need the benefit in work shoes or formal footwear where a HOKA isn't going to cut it.

Different types of arthritis need different things from a shoe. Here are my picks by condition:

Arthritis doesn't just affect the feet. Many people also have trouble with their hands, which makes traditional lace-up shoes impractical or impossible. Here are some alternatives:

• Velcro / hook-and-loop straps: the easiest option if your hands struggle with fine movements. Can be done one-handed.
• Elastic laces: turn any lace-up into a slip-on while keeping a secure fit. About £5 to £10 and easy to retrofit yourself.
• Zip closures: side zips let the shoe open wide for easy entry, then close securely.
• Wide-opening designs: some specialist shoes open completely flat, which is essential for anyone who can't lift their foot into a conventional shoe.

Brands that consistently offer accessible fastening options include Cosyfeet, Sandpiper, and DB Wider Fit.

NHS podiatrists regularly prescribe custom orthotic insoles for arthritis. They do a few things at once:

• Offloading joints: shifting pressure away from inflamed or damaged joints to reduce pain when you walk.
• Correcting biomechanics: realigning the foot and ankle so you're not compensating in ways that cause problems further up the body.
• Slowing deformity: supporting the arch and forefoot to slow the development of bunions, claw toes, and other RA-related changes.

Custom orthoses are free through NHS podiatry (via GP referral) or available privately from registered podiatrists. Whatever shoes you pair them with, make sure they have removable insoles and enough internal depth.

If arthritis is affecting your feet, these services can help:

• GP referral: your GP can refer you to NHS podiatry or rheumatology. Podiatrists prescribe orthotics and advise on footwear. Rheumatologists manage the underlying condition.
• Versus Arthritis helpline: free advice and support on 0800 5200 520, including guidance on footwear and assistive devices.
• Bespoke footwear from NHS orthotists: for severe cases where off-the-shelf shoes won't work, NHS orthotists can design and make bespoke therapeutic footwear tailored to the exact shape of your feet.