Arthritis can leave joints in the feet tender, stiff or changed in shape, while stiffness in the hands can make an ordinary fastening difficult to manage.
We selected these shoes for arthritis around both needs: accommodating sensitive joints and making the shoe practical to put on. Roomy toe boxes, soft leather, stretch or mesh uppers, memory foam cushioning and smooth seam-free linings create a softer interface around the foot. Wide touch-fastening straps or laces allow the fit to be adjusted without forcing the foot into a tight opening, while the structured sole provides a supportive base. The most suitable model depends on which joints are affected and how much the foot changes through the day.
More about our shoes for arthritis
To choose: if your hands are the limiting factor, start with the wide single-strap models, which need one broad movement rather than fine finger control. If the joints of the foot are the main concern, compare the available upper materials, toe-box room and underfoot cushioning. Lace-up models offer finer adjustment but require more hand movement.
Easy fasten shoes for arthritic hands
A single wide touch-fasten strap needs one movement and no pinch grip. Multi-strap models take a moment longer but let you set the forefoot and the instep separately, which is useful when swelling is uneven.
Soft leather uppers over tender joints
Selected leather models use calf leather over a cushioned middle layer with a smooth seam-free lining. Stretch and mesh models use different upper constructions to provide accommodation around the forefoot; check the individual product specification.
Wide and extra wide fittings, EE to 6E
Four fittings on our own lasts, made in our own factory since 2005. A wider fitting keeps the length and adds room across the forefoot, which is where an arthritic joint usually needs it.
Questions we are asked
What is the easiest shoe to put on?
Within the current collection, a single wide touch-fastening strap is usually the simplest option because it needs less fine finger control and still allows the fit to be adjusted. Lace-up models offer finer adjustment but take more hand movement.
Do you have shoes for rheumatoid arthritis?
The same shoes suit — what people usually need is room across a spreading forefoot, a soft upper over prominent joints, and a fastening they can manage. That is what this collection is selected for.
Can I put my own orthotics in?
Yes. The insole lifts out of every pair, and the depth underneath is what makes room.
If your feet are changing shape, or a joint is newly painful or swollen, see your GP, rheumatology team or a podiatrist. Footwear makes the day easier to get through; it does not treat the joint.
