12 Best Shoes For The Elderly (Review) In 2022

- 1. New Balance MW577 Hook And Loop Shoes For The Elderly
- 2. Hush Puppies Men's Gil Slip-On Shoes For The Elderly
- 3. Hush Puppies Luthar Henson Slip-On Shoes For The Elderly
- 4. Clarks Women's Sillian Bella Mary Jane Flat
- 5. Propet Women's Travelactiv Mary Jane Fashion Sneaker
- 6. Hush Puppies Women's Power Walker Sneaker
- 7. Orthofeet Avery Island Men's Walking Shoe
- 8. Skechers Women's Go Walk Joy Walking Shoe
- 9. Propet Women's Tour Walker Strap Sneaker
- 10. Propet Men's Wash N Wear Slip-on Loafer
- 11. Saucony Men's Echelon 7 Running Shoe
- 12. Easy Spirit Women's Traveltime Mule
If you’re looking for a new pair of shoes for an elderly family member or perhaps you’re shopping for yourself, then there are a few considerations that you first need to take into account. It’s quite likely that the older a person is, the more ailments they’ll be suffering from, and possibly they will have some specific foot support needs that have to be catered for. Shoes should always be comfortable, that’s a given, but it’s even more important the older we become that we focus on comfort and support to promote good overall foot health. It’s also worth taking into consideration any activity that you know the elderly person regularly participates in to ensure that the shoes you buy are entirely appropriate. We’ve pulled together our top recommendations of the best shoes for the elderly, taking into consideration both male and female styles and trying to accommodate a range of different social scenarios.
The Best Shoe For The Elderly
1. New Balance MW577 Hook And Loop Shoes For The Elderly

Durable leather constructed walking shoe
Features a dual hook and loop strap
Full-length solid rubber outsole
Heel section features ABZORB technology
Removable sock liner can be replaced with orthotics
First, to get the review treatment in our assessment of the best shoes around for the elderly members of your family is the New Balance Hook and Loop 577. This is widely considered to be an excellent choice if you spend a lot of time on your feet. It’s pretty much identical to the original 577 model from New Balance only this version conveniently employs two Velcro straps meaning that it’s an easy shoe to take on and off without the hassle of having to bend down to do up laces. Perforations in the forefoot area deliver a good amount of ventilation, and the cushioning adds to the feeling of comfort.
As you’d expect from New Balance, it’s a sporty looking design which comes in three neutral shades and plenty of sizes and widths to suit all foot shapes. The midsole has been constructed with dense foam so that it actively reduces shock and helps to reduce foot and leg fatigue. The outsole is made from a strong and durable solid rubber which can withstand harsh weather and uneven surfaces while delivering a secure and stable grip. It’s slip-resistant on most surfaces and has a flexible groove pattern so that it promotes good natural foot movement. It also features a removable sock liner so that if preferred, the New Balance 577 Hook and Loop walking shoe can be worn instead with orthotics. Make sure you also check our guide to the best shoes for standing all day.
Comfortable
Easy closure system
Durable
Good arch support
Wide toe box
Great everyday shoe
Tongue short and bulky
2. Hush Puppies Men’s Gil Slip-On Shoes For The Elderly

Zero-G Elon midsole for shock absorption
Rubberlon outsole for traction
Full leather upper with tonal stitching
Removable EVA footbed
Easy open and close Velcro fittings
You can’t really go wrong with Hush Puppies, they really are such an incredibly comfortable shoe to wear, and this Gil Slip-on from their extensive range is so light that’s it’s virtually weightless. As Hush Puppies go, this is also a reasonably eye-catching model and as you’d expect, ticks all the boxes when it comes to safety and not just comfort. It’s a shoe that will certainly help to improve the quality of and elders foot health, even giving them a new lease of life.
Made from a smooth leather upper which is firm and supportive, the design incorporates tonal stitching, a moc-toe effect and with an easy to open and fasten hook-and-loop closure, delivers an all together casual and clean appearance. The outsole is entirely slip resistant and features special grooves plus it’s made from Rubberlon which gives the shoe plenty of flexibility but also durability while improving traction.
Comfortable
Leather Upper
Good traction
Velcro closure
Durable
Flexible
Lightweight
Runs a little narrow
3. Hush Puppies Luthar Henson Slip-On Shoes For The Elderly

100% full grain leather upper
Sturdy rubber sole for excellent grip and traction
Soft and breathable mesh lining
Anatomically molded
Full-length removable EVA memory foam footbed
These full grain leather upper shoes from Hush Puppies are called the Luthar Henson, and they’re a fashionable and comfortable slip-on style loafer available in four easy to wear neutral colors. They’re incredibly lightweight, so much so, that you won’t even feel like you’re wearing shoes at all. They’re also very flexible too, so they support day long movement and activity with comfort and ease.
The easy slip-on design is perfect for those older members of the family who might struggle and fumble with a more traditional lace closure system. With a velcro fastener ensures that these Hush Puppies slip-on shoes stay securely in place. They’re cushioned and comfortable thanks to an EVA footbed which is anatomically molded and is a full-length design, utilizing memory foam throughout. If you do however prefer to wear your own custom orthotic soles, the insole can be conveniently removed. Lightweight and stylish, they also happen to be a cost-effective option too. You may also like to check our guide to the best dad shoes.
Flexible
Durable
Slip-on design
Removable insole
Lightweight
Velcro closure
Tight fit
4. Clarks Women’s Sillian Bella Mary Jane Flat

Cloud stepper technology
100% textile construction with breathable mesh
Fashionable easy to wear slip-on design
Rip tape fastening for easy wear and removal
Stretchy fabric panels support natural movement
When it comes to comfortable footwear, Clarks is a brand who are hard to beat, and this woman’s Sillian Bella Mary Jane flat from their collection is like walking on clouds. It’s a slim and sporty looking shoe that comes in a range of colors including a very fashionable blue denim effect which is perfect for the still stylish Seniors on the block. It features a rubber outsole which provides plenty of support and cushioning.
The shoe itself is very lightweight and features an ortholite footbed. The shoe is cushioned throughout and utilizes Clarks Cloud stepper technology. A simple strap closure means that this shoe is also easy to slip in and out of but can still be secured in place so that it won’t slip off the foot. It features stretchy fabric panels for plenty of flexible movement and is breathable and a joy to wear. Come rain or shine, this synthetic mesh shoe will ensure you look stylish, and your feet remain comfortable and supported.
Lightweight
Breathable
Comfortable
Ortholite footbed
Flexible
Stretchy
Narrow fit
5. Propet Women’s Travelactiv Mary Jane Fashion Sneaker

Breathable perforated mesh upper
Fully removable insole can be replaced with orthotics
Lightweight and durable, flexible rubber sole
Stretchy, easy to fasten asymmetrical strap
Hook-and-loop velcro closure
For all the elderly ladies out there looking for a stylish but comfortable shoe that comes in a wide range of attractive colors that will coordinate with a wide range of outfits and styles, these Popet Travelactive Mary Janes are a winner. Perhaps you need to buy a new pair of shoes for your Mom, Grandma, or an older female relative in the family who’s not able to get out as much these days? If so, then surely they won’t be disappointed to receive these? In fact, they might just catch the eye of much younger customers, too, as they are certainly a fashionable choice.
Far more than just a pretty shoe, the Propet TravelActive Mary Jane has been purposefully built to be flexible, durable as well as lightweight. With a simple hook-and-loop closure along with a velcro strap, it’s easy to take on and off, even for those suffering from arthritis. The shoe itself helps to minimize the impact of shock and reduce strain, which can lead to leg fatigue. Don’t forget to also check our guide to the best espadrille shoes for women.
Flexible
Comfortable
Breathable
Lightweight
Fashionable
Removable insoles
Lacking in support
6. Hush Puppies Women’s Power Walker Sneaker

Made from full-grained high-quality leather
Complete with moisture wicking Dri-lex lining
Feature contoured removed insoles
Hush Puppies bounce technology for comfort with every stride
Strategic perforations for better airflow
Sticking with another shoe for the women, we’ve headed back to see what Hush Puppies has in store. Their Power Walker Sneaker comes in a range of nice neutral colors, so it’s easy to pick out a pair to go with practically any outfit. Made from 100% quality leather, they provide a firm level of support and the durable upper also feature breathable mesh. The perforated design also promotes better airflow, which keeps your feet dry and odor free.
Inside the Power, Walker is fitted with a Dri-lex moisture wicking lining as well as a removable molded footbed which can be swapped out for custom orthotics. The contoured sole also helps manage and minimize shock-absorption. Designed in a classic lace-up style, the Power Walker is easy to wear and delivers plenty of comfort and bounce back. All of that lovely cushioning technology helps reduce discomfort and foot fatigue, which is great if you’re on your feet all day.
Supportive
Flexible
Durable
Moisture wicking
Cushioned technology
Shock-Absorption
Lack of arch support
7. Orthofeet Avery Island Men’s Walking Shoe

Feature premium orthotic insoles with anatomical arch support
Ortho-cushion system is biomechanically engineered
Extra deep and wide design with soft seam free interior lining
Superior comfort and security for sensitive feet
Engineered to offer superior relief from foot pain
If you have an elderly member of the family who needs to take their foot health seriously but still enjoys an active life, including regular walks, then this comfortable men’s shoe from Orthofeet is worth consideration. The Avery Island Men’s Walking Shoe is a leather shoe with a soft and supportive arch system delivering a relaxed fit but with maximum pressure point protection. The profile of the shoe overall promotes a nice and natural foot motion which minimizes and absorbs shock. It’s lightweight and cushioned and constructed to support you every step of the way.
This is a particularly effective shoe for anyone suffering from conditions including arthritis and diabetes and can also alleviate pain associated with heel, knee, back, metatarsal, and foot pain. That’s because these Orthofeet shoes for the elderly have been designed using bio-mechanical expertise to create a premium orthotic footwear that’s super comfortable. This proven technology helps to alleviate pressure and stress on joints while also enhancing the stability for the wearer. Just wearing these Avery Island shoes like make you feel like you’ve been given a new lease of life. Check out our selection of the best electric shoe polisher so you can keep your shoes as good as now.
Comfortable
Orthotic Support
Cushioned Ortho System
Leather Upper
Good traction
Rounded, wide toe box
Not the most stylish of shoes
8. Skechers Women’s Go Walk Joy Walking Shoe

100% textile with breathable mesh seamless uppers
Lightweight and flexible shoe that is stylish and easy to wear
Responsive 5GEN full-length midsole
Goga Max high rebound insole
Wider foot sizes are available
Comfort rules when it comes to walking shoes, especially those designed for the elderly. While these stylish Skechers Women’s Go Walk Joy Walking shoes will be loved by young and old alike, they really do make the ideal shoe for old people on account of their visually seamless construction. With breathable mesh uppers, they ensure that feet are kept cool and dry and more importantly, blister free! The upper is ever so slightly padded with provides a nice amount of cushioning in what is a slimline and lightweight casual shoe.
These Skechers Go Walk shoes are also incredibly flexible too, and they feature a responsive 5GEN cushioned full-length midsole for even more of a responsive and comfortable ride. To make things even better, the insole incorporates a Goga Max footbed which is made from a highly sensitive foam material which offers plenty of rebound. Overall, this is one supremely comfortable women’s walking shoe that really does provide an advanced walking experience, no matter what your age.
Fashionable
Comfortable
Lightweight
Flexible
Rubber Sole
Breathable upper
Limited arch support
9. Propet Women’s Tour Walker Strap Sneaker

Medicare coded and Medicaid approved
Extended range of sizes and widths available
Fully removable footbed
Durable and easy to clean leather uppers
Ventilated perforations for good airflow
75 Herringbone tread pattern on outsoles
The Tour Walker from Propet has a sporty look about it but much more than that, it’s been specially designed and approved by Medicaid to assist people suffering from diabetes. It’s a supportive and stable leather shoe with a seriously good rubber outsole which features a 75 Herringbone tread pattern for the ultimate in grip and traction. Not only does the tread pattern provide extra grip over a range of surfaces and conditions, but it’s also flexible too.
The upper, while being made of durable and weather-hardy leather, also features refreshing perforations which provide plenty of airflow. The Propet Tour Walker is also designed to have soft padding which reduces discomfort and the possibility of annoying blisters which can be caused by shoes which rub. If you do also need to wear custom orthotics, then the insoles can easily be removed and replaced according to your personal requirements. Overall it’s a well made and comfortable, sporty looking shoe with twin-strap closure and comes in a range of widths and sizes as well as a choice of six attractive colors. Check out our velcro shoes buying guide for more practical lacing system footwear.
Ventilated
Durable
Padded
Medicaid approved
Supportive
Leather Uppers
Very firm fit
10. Propet Men’s Wash N Wear Slip-on Loafer

Supportive internal heel counter
Padded and flexible neoprene collar
Attractive leather suede upper
Comfortably EVA midsole
Stretchable slip-on design
If you are looking for a great supportive shoe that’s also easy to maintain, then the Wash N Wear slip-on Loafer from Propet definitely fits the bill. Made in a firm yet durable leather or suede in a comfy slip-on moc design, this shoe is supportive, protective, and best of all, washable. With an EVA midsole that is lightweight, the wearer won’t experience any issues with leg or foot fatigue using this shoe, even for day log seasons. Even if the shoe is exposed to water, it won’t impact the performance or the lifespan.
Manufactured with a formal internal heel counter for extra support, you can be sure of a stable and protected footing, which is perfect for elderly members of the family who are perhaps becoming a little unsteady on their feet. The firm insert cups the heel while the padding helps eliminate any painful rubbing, which can lead so often to blisters and general discomfort.
Comfortable
Machine Washable
Flexible & stretchy
Supportive
Stylish & contemporary
Durable rubber sole
Run small to size
11. Saucony Men’s Echelon 7 Running Shoe

Great for sufferers of under-pronation
Fitted with comfortable FORM-FIT footbed
Roomy toe-box allows the foot to splay
Traction support from Tri-Flex outsole
Breathable and ventilated mesh uppers
While it has been designed as a running shoe for men, we’ve picked out the Saucony Echelon 7 Running shoe for today’s review guide on this best shoes for old people because it offers so much in the way of comfort and support. It is a great road running shoe, yes, and that might still be your passion in later life. Bravo if so! Alternatively, you might have an elder relative who likes a brisk walk around the block. If so, these are a great option. They’re built with mesh uppers so are comfortable and breathable while the extended heel counter secures the foot in locked down position. Featuring Tri-Flex Outsoles, they deliver a good amount of ground contact and plenty of energetic return.
The synthetic uppers offer a nice amount of cooling airflow, and the mesh construction allows water to drain out of the sneakers making these a good option for all weather conditions. Inside the Echelon 7 is a built-in sock liner as well as an extra comfortable FORMFIT contoured footbed both of which put comfort first. They’re also an excellent choice for anyone suffering from under-pronation. Overall, these are comfortable shoes for elders which blend flexibility with protection. For more great running shoe options, check out our guide to the best zero drop running shoes.
Breathable
Comfortable
Flexible
Contoured
Supportive
Protective
Run large to size
12. Easy Spirit Women’s Traveltime Mule

100% premium suede construction
Durable and dependable rubber outsole
Cushioned and flexible insole
Unique slip-on design is a cross between a clog and a sneaker
Wide widths available and extensive choice of colors
Easy Spirit has been making uncomplicated and stylish shoes for over 35 years, and these Traveltime mules are all about comfort without having to compromise on style. With a flexible outsole, they’re a joy to wear and respond to your every step. The rubber sole absorbs shock, thereby minimizing foot and leg fatigue.
They feature a removable sock liner and are orthotic friendly. With over 25 different colorways in the range and extended widths also available, the Easy Spirit Traveltime mule looks like a cross between a tennis shoe and a clod and is supremely breathable.
Comfortable
Flexible
Durable
Breathable
Distinct design
Absorb shock
Narrow fit
Shoe For The Elderly Buying Guide
How We Chose Our Selection Of Shoes For The Elderly
One thing for sure is that we certainly know our shoes! We've made a business out of it. So just how do we narrow down our selection when there is clearly so much choice to be had?
Well, first up, we take a good look at what all the leading brands have to offer so that we can narrow down our recommendations. Once we have our top picks, we then consider their quality and overall value for money. We're less concerned with the price tag and more with their overall performance. That said, we do always try to review a fully representative range of products with everyone's budgets in mind.
Besides brand, quality, performance, and price, we do also consider consumer reviews. When it comes to the best shoes for the elderly, it's essential that they've been tried and tested by a sufficiently representative range of people and not just the team back at Shoe Hero HQ. That's why reviews form an essential part of our research when assessing the best products out there in any category.
Features To Look For In Shoes For The Elderly
Stability & Support - We recommend that you look for a pair of shoes that offer plenty of stability and can support your feet in the areas where you need it the most. It's a fact of life that the older we get, the more unsteady on our feet we will end up becoming. So one of the other vital factors to consider in the best shoes for the elderly is good support.
While we might have got away in our youth wearing an ill-fitting pair of shoes, when we're older, it's important to factor in any support that might be required from over or under pronation. Over-pronation occurs when feet have a tendency to roll inwards whereas you got it, under-pronation is the physical phenomenon when the foot rolls outwards. Both can lead to foot health problems and by extension lead to other more series medical conditions, including the common but uncomfortable condition of plantar fasciitis. So it's particularly important to ensure that shoes for older people address these support issues. Luckily, this is one area where shoe manufacturers have spent a lot of research and development time, and support features can be found throughout the length, breadth, upper, and outers of most shoes.
The things to be on the lookout for are:
- Uppers - go for comfortable and breathable uppers with plenty of supportive mesh
- Foot supports - choose a full or partial foot shank to suit your needs
- Heel supports - heel cups and extra depth uppers can promote greater support and comfort
- Arch supports - these can come in the shape of air pockets and foam wedges for example
- Outsole - consider the traction, tread and lug system to ensure that it provides plenty of stable support
Shock Absorption - Shock absorption is a particularly important feature to have in any pair of shoes that will be worn for any form of physical activity, even moderate walking, as well as for prolonged periods of standing. In shoes for the elderly, it's crucial that the protection offered from shock absorption doesn't come at the cost of comfort or flexibility. Shock absorption is vital as it minimizes lower body pain, backaches, and risk of injury.
Think of your shoes like the inside of your car. Without airbags, a seat belt, and a cushioned seat, you'd run the risk of serious harm if there was any impact collision. The same is true of the construction of your shoes. They need to offer security, impact protection as well as comfort. The difference with your feet as opposed to driving a car is that impact is felt with each and every step you make, whether you are running or just walking. Just think about all that impact going through your body and the possible discomfort and strain it would be putting on you less, lower back, hips as well as your feet and ankles if you didn't have any cushioning in your shoes. Cushioning helps to disperse and soak up impact so that your feet and legs don't bear the full brunt.
Depending upon the principle use for the shoes and to a certain extent on your own body's composition, you might prefer more or less cushioning. Running or walking shoe, for example, needs to be more supportive and cushioned than a slip-on summer shoe. Four key areas make up a shoe, and one or each of all of these can be cushioned; the upper, the insole, the midsole as well as the outsole.
Protection - When it comes to protection, we're mostly talking about four specific features, some of which we'll cover off individually. Those being traction, support, level of cushioning, and also the amount of flexibility the shoes provide. Shock absorption is also an important element as already discussed, and you also need to consider weather protection too. A pair of shoes for wet conditions will require excellent traction and grip to ensure that they are safe across slippery surfaces. The last thing you want is for your elderly relative to slip and fall. While shoes for the winter need to protect from the elements and keep feet adequately warm, shoes worn in the summer need to provide plenty of breathable ventilation to prevent feet from becoming uncomfortably swollen.
Grip - Another important issue to consider in shoes for old people is the grip, also known as traction support. The outsole of your shoes should be able to safely yet securely propel you forwards and provide adequate protection across a range of surfaces, especially if you are buying a pair of winter walking boots, for example. Think about that car analogy again but this time consider the tires. There's a reason why Formula 1 drivers switch to wet weather tires in adverse racing conditions. Your shoes are similar. The pattern and depth of tread on your outsoles should be appropriate to the weather and surface conditions.
Material - Decide whether you want to go for leather or synthetic uppers and make sure that you opt for a design that has plenty of breathable mesh so that your feet stay cool and dry no matter what the weather. Leather options that feature perforated design detailing are a great way of ensuring that you still get the durability and weather resistance of leather but with a good amount of airflow too.
Style - Just because you are advancing in years, doesn't mean that you're not still interested in style and how you dress. Chances are that yes, you might spend more time indoors and less time socializing so perhaps your sense of style has pared down accordingly, and you might find that the majority of the time, you prefer to wear a comfortable pair of slip-on loafers around the house which are easier to slip in and out of.
While the emphasis is most definitely on comfort and support in elderly shoes, style does still matter. You still deserve to be able to pop on a pair of stylish smart casual or even formal shoes if the occasion arises while still managing your overall foot health. Hopefully in our comprehensive shoe guide today we've covered plenty of different bases and presented a selection of shoes suitable for even the most sartorially stylish Senior!