Best Shoes for Seniors with Balance Problems

As we gracefully navigate the golden years, our bodies may face new challenges and for many, the ability to maintain balance as they age becomes a top priority. 

This article serves as your guide to finding the best shoes for seniors - ones that not only support your feet but also provide the stability needed, bringing comfort and confidence back to your daily activities. Whether it's a leisurely stroll in the park or a trip to the store, the shoes featured in our list can be reliable companions when dealing with balance issues.

Podiatrist Dr. Emily Splichal provided her expertise to address specific questions within this article, offering valuable insights for a well-rounded understanding of the topics discussed.

What shoes are best for the elderly with balance problems?

Best walking shoes for balance problems 

Women’s Nira

Exceptional Traction Rubber slip-resistant outsoles for secure footing on any surface. Fluid-Repellent Uppers Keeps feet dry in wet conditions with flexible, water-repellent materials Easy Maintenance Wipe-clean design makes spills and stains effortless to remove Orthotic Insole & Ergonomic Sole Multi-layered support helps improve stability and relieve pain from foot conditions like plantar fasciitis or arthritis Generous Toe Box Allows natural toe movement to support healthy foot alignment and a comfortable gait

Why you’ll love it

• Slip-resistant outsoles improve balance and stability
• Uppers that repel fluids and clean extremely easily

Specs

• Sizes: 5-12
• Widths: Standard (B) - Extra Wide (2E)
• Upper materials: soft synthetic leather
• Available colors: white, black, lavender

What the users say

“WOW! These are the absolute most comfortable shoes I've ever worn. They feel so springy under my feet I feel like Tigger, from "Winnie the Pooh"--I need to bounce. They fit just great and, because I have high arches, I put the extra arch support under the insole. I have raved about these shoes to everyone I can--and will. I wear them every day now--put all my other walking shoes in the closet and closed the door! They are so light and nice and I love the skidproof sole.”

Irene Mertens

Men’s Rex

Hands-Free Slip-On Rear spring allows easy on/off without bending or tying laces. Water-Repellent Uppers Keeps feet dry and makes cleaning simple. Fully Cushioned Support Removable insoles with arch support relieve pain and improve balance. Custom, Pressure-Free Fit Stretch knit upper adapts to your foot's shape for a secure, gentle fit. Comfortable Interior Soft, padded lining soothes sensitive feet and reduces irritation. Enhanced Walking Ease Cushioned rocker sole adds bounce and reduces joint stress. Advanced Grip & Stability Durable rubber outsole improves traction and balance.

Why you’ll love it

• Easy on and off without the need for using hands or bending over
• Solid heel counter helps maintain stability

Specs

• Sizes: 7-14
• Widths: Standard (D) - Extra Wide (4E)
• Upper materials: stretch fabric
• Available colors: blue, black

What the users say

“I’m 81 and thank God for excellent health. However…my most sensitive body parts are the feet and these new step-ins, my first purchase from Orthofeet, are remarkably comfortable. More than that, they seem to be providing more stability than anything else I own — important because of a balance issue that is not unusual for someone my age. I’m also 6’4” and have hammer toes and bunions. Too Much Information, but truly happy with purchase. Wife wants me to buy another pair, but skinflint needs to think about it.”

Steve Gilkenson

Best slip-on shoes for balance problems 

Women’s Kita | Men’s Yari

Hands-Free Design Slip-on style with spring mechanism for easy, bend-free wear. Breathable & Stretchable Fit Flexible, water-repellent knit upper adapts to your foot for airflow and comfort. Stability & Support Slip-resistant sole and orthotic insoles with arch support help reduce fall risk. Everyday Versatility Lightweight yet stable-ideal for daily wear.

Why you’ll love it

• Stretchable, breathable uppers for customized fit and foot health
• Simply insert your foot and go, no hands or bending over needed

Specs

• Sizes: women 5-12; men 7-14
• Widths: women Standard (B) - Wide (D) | men Standard (D) - Extra Wide (4E)
• Upper materials: stretch knit
• Available colors: Kita - black-black, black, blue, gray, rose, white | Yari - blue, white, black, gray

What the users say

Kita 

“Shoes were bought for my mother and she fell in love with them immediately! She has a fallen arch and is elderly so this is helpful to keeping her mobile!”

Melissa Milano

Yari

“Got them as a gift for my 80 year old parents. They both commented how comfortable the shoe was and mom loved how the heel didn’t fold when she slipped it on.”

Laura Mooney

Best slippers for balance problems

Women’s Lorin | Men’s Vito

Slip-On Convenience, Adjustable Fit Hands-free entry with a built-in spring; adjust the fit using the interior strap. Orthotic Insoles for Posture Realignment Removable insoles with anatomical arch support realign foot and body posture for better balance. Wide Toe Box for Pressure Alleviation Spacious, non-binding fit eases pressure and allows toes to splay naturally. Cushioning Sole with Advanced Grip Lightweight rocker sole softens impact and improves walking ease; rubber outsole enhances grip and stabillty.

Why you’ll love it

• Maintain better balance indoors with posture realignment insoles
• Keep your feet dry with water-repellent, soft leather uppers

Specs

• Sizes: women 5-12; men 7-14
• Widths: women Standard (B) - Extra Wide (2E) | men Standard (D) - Extra Wide (4E)
• Upper materials: leather
• Available colors: Lorin - light brown, bordeaux, black | Vito - olive, black

What the users say

“I first got a pair of these hands free Lori slippers for my wife. She was very happy with them. We are older and not having to bend over to slip into these is a real pleasure. I was reluctant to order a pair, I have a 11 4E foot and have trouble finding slippers that fit and are supportive . These are outstanding and with the module support system fit me well. I will buy again.”

Randy W. 

Best boots for balance problems 

Women’s Florence

Arch Support & Heel Cushioning Improves alignment, gait, and heel protection for confident, healthy steps. Rocker Sole for Easy Walking Spring-like sole reduces effort and relieves foot discomfort. Easy Entry with Adjustable Straps Dual hook-and-loop straps and forward-falling tongue ensure simple on/off. Waterproof & Non-Binding Fit Soft leather and sealed seams keep feet dry and comfortable-even with swelling.

Why you’ll love it

• Feet stay dry thanks to the waterproof leather upper
• Orthopedic cushioning does wonders to help you maintain balance

 

Specs

• Sizes: 5-12
• Widths: Standard (B) - Extra Wide (2E)
• Upper materials: leather
• Available colors: camel, brown, black, taupe

What the users say

“I love these shoes! ‘Cute-shoes-for-old-feet’ is a narrow shoe-shopping niche—and Orthofeet’s specialty! And these shoes ring all the bells if you’re also looking for waterproof and WARM! Also great customer service! And I did mention super-cute, right? I’m 74 and still care…maybe you do, too! Looking sandals and warm-weather shoes now….☀️☀️☀️”

Karen Herrick

Men’s Ryder

Easy On/Off with Dual Zippers Skip the laces-heel zippers let you slide in and zip up effortlessly. Cushioned Orthotic Support Removable insoles with arch support improve posture and all-day comfort. Stability-Boosting Sole Slip-resistant tread and mild rocker reduce walking effort and improve balance. Ankle Support for Stability Biomechanical design enhances ankle support for a secure, confident stride.

Why you’ll love it

• A laced-up style that requires no tying
• Enhance stability and balance with ankle support

• Premium orthotic insoles

• Help ease symptoms of edema

Specs

• Sizes: 7-14
• Widths: Standard (D) - Extra Wide (4E)
• Upper materials: leather
• Available colors: brown, black

What the users say

“Hallelujah!! My feet and legs for the past 3 decades with the expense of custom insoles and shoes have been in vane. My (3) pairs (including) sandals have given me total complete relief.

I’m speechless really, very satisfied. I tell everyone this story. Fantastic product. The best investment I have ever made.”

Gary Heath

Carmel Hands-Free Boots

Ergonomic Comfort Orthotic insoles and ergonomic soles reduce foot pain and support all-day wear. Hands-Free Slip-On No bending needed -easy on/ off design ideal for limited mobility. Non-Slip Stability Slip-resistant outsoles enhance traction and help prevent falls.

Why you’ll love it

• Slip-on design for hands-free convenience
• Orthotic insoles for comfort and support
• Wide opening for easy on/off access

Specs

• Sizes: 5-12
• Widths: Medium (B) - Extra Wide (2E)
• Upper materials: soft synthetic leather
• Available colors: gray, brown, black

What the users say

"I wore these shoes on my trip to Iceland and they are so comfortable. I loved that I could slip them on and off as I needed to. I have bought another color also to have in the future."

Susan Caudle

Verno Hands-Free

Hands-Free Entry Slip-on design makes wear easy for those with limited mobility or balance issues. Slip-Resistant Stability Rugged soles provide strong traction to help prevent falls. Supportive Insoles Orthotic and ergonomic design relieves pain and supports foot health.

Why you’ll love it

• Slip-resistant soles for enhanced safety
• Orthotic cushioning for all-day comfort
• Durable leather upper for added protection

Specs

• Sizes: 7-14
• Widths: Standard (D) - Extra Wide (4E)
• Upper materials: genuine leather
• Available colors: brown, black

What Users say

These boots are great!! I picked them up for my warehouse management job and they work really well. They're comfy and sturdy. Would definitely recommend!

Saidon

 FAQ

Podiatrist Dr. Emily Splichal provided her expertise to address specific questions within this article, offering valuable insights for a well-rounded understanding of the topics discussed.

Can shoes improve balance?

Yes, shoes can play a role in improving balance. The traction and stability provided by shoes are obvious features. In addition, the following features of shoes can improve balance:

1. Wide toe box to allow toes to spread and engage.   

2. Arch support can increase foot awareness.

3. Heel counters support ankle and heel stability.

Why do I feel like I'm off balance when I'm walking?

Balance is a complex process that involves input from our eyes, ears, joints and the skin on the bottom of our feet. Any delay in processing input from these systems can contribute to the perception of impaired balance. Training or improving the input to these systems can positively improve balance. Some examples include eye movement exercises, vestibular exercises, wearing ankle braces or high top shoes and textured insoles. 

Can shoes make you feel off balance?

Yes, shoes that have excess stack or cushion have been shown to contribute to impaired foot awareness and balance.  We often associate cushion with comfort but oftentimes, it is at the cost of a sensory disconnect from our feet and the ground.    

If cushion is needed in shoes this sensory disconnect can be offset by wearing arch supports that are stiffer, or using textured insoles to stimulate the skin on the bottom of the feet.  

It is important to remember that balance is a sensory experience.

Does walking barefoot increase balance?

Yes, walking barefoot can improve stimulation to the thousands of nerves in the bottom of the feet. Taking off our shoes and socks is a great way to ensure these nerves get stimulated and function properly for balance and movement.

Daily barefoot stimulation is a great way to build this into a routine and help offset the sensory disconnect that occurs in most shoes.