Disclaimer:
I am not a doctor nor an orthotist, but I do have a wealth of knowledge and personal experience from living with foot-drop for 50+ years (OMG)!
This post about the “best shoes for foot-drop” is based solely on my desire to help empower others living with foot-drop and chronic conditions like CMT disease, MS, and more, to look and feel their best.
So, please don’t sue me and if you’re a rule follower, please speak to your orthotist first as they will likely tell you to stick to sturdy, lace-up sneakers.
Also, If you have foot-drop, there may be a risk of falling (pun absolutely intended) for some of the shoe styles highlighted in this post. We are not responsible for credit card maxing and/or any marital feuds that ensue after reading this post and shopping the shoe links below. Okay, on with the post!
If you were to poll 10 people with foot-drop about the best shoe options, you’d likely get 10 different answers. The ideal shoes for foot-drop totally depend on an individual’s condition, abilities, and whether or not they utilize orthopedic mobility devices.
I’ve lived with foot-drop due to inheriting a neuromuscular disease called CMT (read more about me and it here) my entire life. And as a generally resourceful person and self-proclaimed foot-drop fashionista, I have found ways of doing the things I choose to do (including wearing cute shoes) using the tools available to me.
For those who utilize Afos (ankle foot orthosis) and/or custom orthotics like myself, these mobility aids are intended to provide significant support and correction for foot-drop (they’re supposed to do the heavy lifting), people who wear them may have less of a need for shoes with arch support as an example.
Of course finding shoes that tick all the boxes – support, comfort, and style – takes some real legwork (pun 100% intended!). But, don’t worry! That’s what Trend-Able and this post is all about. We’ve done the work for you and found the curated the cutest and best shoes for foot-drop that you can order from online today (we look for retailers with easy and free returns). But first,…
FOOT-DROP 101
If for some reason you’ve landed here and have no clue what foot-drop is and you actually want to know, here’s my layman’s definition.
Foot-drop is a condition that messes with your ability to lift the front part of your foot because the muscles that control that movement are weak or paralyzed. With foot drop, it’s like your ankle forgot how to flex, and you typically lack the ability (and grace) of a heel-toe walking pattern.
This can wreak havoc on your mobility game, making you prone to tripping and falling, and totally changing up how you strut your stuff.
Foot drop doesn’t discriminate – it can hit one foot or both, and it’s often a side effect of some other health issue like MS, Charcot Marie Tooth Disorder, cerebral palsy, or even a stroke.
Finding stylish, comfy, and supportive shoes when you have foot-drop is no easy feat! After diving deep into countless shoe reviews from fellow foot-drop warriors and scouring articles by podiatrists and orthopedic docs, I’ve found a ton of shoes that fit the bill and identified 5 shoe styles to consider when shopping for stylish shoes to help with foot-drop.
#1. KEEP IT LIGHT
When you have foot-drop, even a casual stroll (especially when fatigue kicks in) can feel like you’re lugging around a 20-pound ankle weight. To avoid tripping over every little obstacle, folks with foot-drop often have to make a conscious effort to lift their feet with each step.
That’s where lightweight shoes come in clutch – the lighter, the better! But let’s be real, finding stylish, featherweight kicks can be a bit of a hunt. Most supportive, comfy shoes tend to bulk up on the weight, resembling something straight out of those healthcare supply store’s “fashion catalogs” featuring smiling gray haired grandmas on the covers. Personally, I’m not a fan of orthopedic looking shoes.
Slide through and click-on our favorite and stylish lightweight shoes for foot-drop:
#2. ROCKIN’ DA FOOT-DROP!
Loads of folks dealing with foot-drop swear by shoes with built-in rocker mechanisms.
According to Arnie David, CPed and founder of David Foot Comfort Center, “Next to foot orthotic devices, rocker bottom soles are the proverbial ‘aspirin’ to chronic and temporary foot problems.” He explains that like orthotics and AFOs, rocker bottom shoes can help improve a person’s gait when they have foot-drop.
Now, there are two types of rocker soles. First up, we’ve got the unstable rocker sole, like those seen in MBT shoes. These are all about introducing some instability under the foot. But hey, they’re not for everyone – folks with balance issues might want to steer clear to avoid upping their risk of taking a tumble.
Then, we’ve got the stable rocker shoe, which comes in two flavors: regular and negative.
Regular rocker soles step in to replace the function of a joint and ease pressure on the sole of the foot. They’re great for those long strolls or standing marathons. If someone’s dealing with a fused ankle or conditions like diabetic peripheral neuropathy, a full sole rocker could be just the ticket to walking more comfortably and naturally.
But let’s talk about the star of the show – the shoe with a “negative rocker.” This style is a game-changer for many dealing with foot-drop. Picture this: the weight from the forefoot gets shifted to the midfoot and rearfoot, thanks to that toe-turning action. It’s like giving your foot a little boost instead of leaving it totally flat.
Ready to check out some of these negative rocker styles?
Slide through and click on the images below to shop our favorite negative rocker shoes:
#3. GET STRAPPY!
Living with foot-drop and my neuromuscular condition, Charcot Marie Tooth Disorder, presents its fair share of challenges. One biggie? The lack of neuro sensation – not sure if that’s the official term, but you get the gist – and the struggle to feel where your foot is in space.
Enter the Mary Jane style shoe, complete with a built-in strap across the top. It’s a game-changer for keeping your foot snug and secure, especially when that strap is adjustable. Now, traditionally, Mary Janes have gotten a bad rap for being a bit frumpy and unstylish. But fear not! I’ve scouted out some updated styles that’ll have you strutting your stuff in no time.
Slide through and click on the images below to shop our favorite shoes with straps across the footbed:
#4 WHEN THEY GO LOW, FOOT-DROPPERS GO HIGH!
Since folks with foot-drop are more susceptible to falls and ankle sprains, having shoes with built-in ankle support is a game-changer. Lucky for us, there’s a whole array of styles to choose from, ranging from tall boots to ankle boots, hi-top sneakers, and even flats with ankle ties – like the ones you see above.
If you’re eyeing some tall boots, be sure to swing by my “Boots Are A Bit$%” post to get the lowdown on what to keep an eye out for while shopping. But right here, right now, I’ve rounded up a few of my all-time favorite ankle-high shoes that you can find in stores.
Slide through and click on the images below to shop our favorite shoes with ankle support:
#5 ARCH YOU GONNA SUPPORT ME?
As a leg brace wearer with foot-drop, I don’t feel the need to splurge on expensive “comfort shoes” with fancy insoles since that’s what AFOs and custom orthotics are for. Basically, if the shoe fits (and it’s trendy and comfortable to walk in), count me in!
Actually, I often ditch the insoles anyway to make room for my feet. But for those of you who don’t rock AFOs, shoes with built-in arch support are a must-have!
Now, there are loads of comfort shoe brands out there hyping up styles that supposedly mold perfectly to your natural arches. But let’s get real – not all of them live up to the hype, and some are just downright ugly. Lucky for you, I’ve rounded up some seriously stylish kicks with legit arch support that I’m totally vibing with.
Slide though and click on the images below to shop our favorite shoes with arch support:
THE END!
Finding the perfect shoes for foot-drop is no easy task, but with the right tips and tricks, it’s totally doable. Whether you’re after lightweight kicks, supportive styles with arch support, or ankle-high shoes for added stability, there’s something out there for everyone.
Remember to prioritize comfort, safety, and of course, style, and you’ll be stepping out with confidence in no time. Happy shoe shopping!
Xoxo
Lainie
Looking for more tips and shoes for AFO wearers with footdrop? Check out, “Not Your Grandma’s Shoes and Boots Are A Bit$5
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Lainie 😇
You are my blessing of the day!
I have had foot drop for 2 mos.,, I am currently going through the neurological tests to find out the “why”.
I’m trying to figure out my new foot attire so I don’t continue tripping and this site is a dream come true! It’s taking me a bit of time to know what won’t work, however this site you have worked so hard on is a huge help!! Can’t thank you enough! I appreciate YOU🫶
Stephanie,
I really hope you received my reply! TY 🩷
Hi Lanie,
I am so happy you’ve done the research for someone like me who has foot drop issues due to CMT. Thank you for your hard work and research. It really means so much. Thank you for your positivity too.
~Jenn
Hi Jen,
this made my day! Thank you so much for taking the time to comment and for supporting the website! 💕
Hi there Lainie.
I am new to foot drop as I just got it 8 weeks ago as a result to my knee replacement surgery. This summer has been so frustrating because I could not wear my flip flops or sandals. Today, I decided to do a google search about shoes and yours was the first to pop up.
Thank you for al the information.
I do have 1 question. Are you wearing an AFO with the shoes that you are recommending or do they shoes support you when you walk without an AFO?
Hi Teresa,
I am so glad you found our page but I am sorry to hear about your new disability. Yes, I am wearing leg braces with every shoe I post about please be sure to follow our social media pages and please feel free to write me directly via email if you have any other questions, Lainie
Even though I’m a guy I found your article very interesting, I also have that Charcot Marie tooth issue, you say it to anyone and they think you have something wrong with your teeth…
I’ve found Afo’s incredibly uncomfortable to the back of my heel, plus being a beach guy in the past…it’s like I can’t go to the beach anymore. Almost to much to bear…
I will look to see if there is anything like that middle rocker type for men, ya never know?
Thanks!
Hi Don,
Yes, the teeth comments can get annoying! 😀 Have you tried Tevas? Or Sketchers waterproof sandals? Check out our men’s shoes post here: https://www.trend-able.com/12-pairs-of-stylish-shoes-for-men-who-wear-afos-or-orthotics/
Hi there. Your post is great. I am not wearing an afo as i got ankle fusion on one leg to help with my (diabetes induced severe) foot weakness and foot drop(s).
It is still hard to find boots as my feet feel all wobbly in them. My ankles and shins/ calves are suuuper skinny due to atrophy as well. Wonder if there’s anything to stick inside shoes to just get more ankle (lateral) support without an entire afo…? That wd open up so many more shoe options! Again, thank you for doing this work!!!
Hi Anna,
Thanks for reading & subscribing. There are many off the shelf braces on Amazon that look like they offer ankle support. Here’s some that are highly rated: https://amzn.to/3HXHrHF
I hope this helps! Lainie
I have an old drop foot and have had many falls. Some could have been fatal.
So glad they weren’t! ?
I found a Keen boot that actually fits with my AFO! It is comfy after taking out the insole that came in the boot
and putting a thinner comfy insole, like dr scholls in it. I will probably order other boots and sneakers from Keen!
Could you share what that boot is? Thanks in advance
Hi Lynn, this is one I recommend
https://shopstyle.it/l/bZADX
Thank you! I have for dropped caused by Hereditary Spastic Paraparesis. Diagnosed 3.5 years, but I have probably had or for closer to 10 years. These are some great ideas I definitely need a shoe where the toe raisesup.
Hi Deborah,
I’m glad you found me & the website & appreciate your comment. I’m glad you like the post! ? Lainie
Hi Lainie,
I’ve been meaning to post a link to my new fabulous find that I came across online about four months ago. The Aider brace Type 2 for foot drop. They are a little tricky to figure out how to put them on the first time but they are amazing and have changed my life, I love them! 🙂 I feel muscles moving or parts of my lower leg move when I walk that haven’t moved properly in 25 years! The braces basically force you to roll your feet when you walk.
The instructions that they come with are in Korean but there are a few videos on YouTube that demonstrate how to put them on. They are sold on Amazon and they are reasonably priced (under $100 for the R and L). They are pretty comfortable for up to 8 hours if you wear shoes or boots 1/2 size larger and don’t do them up too tight. I like that they provide a lot of support but are still flexible. The only thing that disappoints me is that I didn’t invent them! 🙂
https://www.amazon.com/Aider-Dropfoot-Stroke-Hemiplegia-Peroneal/dp/B00ZBE9IW6
Again I love your site – thank you for all of your work putting this together and keeping it up to date with great tips and finds!
Lainie K
Hi Lainie (spelled exact same which is really cool & unusual) I will definitely check them out! I’m curious if you’ve worn other afos before, what your condition is etc…Please reach out via our Facebook Page so I can put a face to your awesome name. Lainie
I have foot drop from a knee replacement. I have looked for a shoe that is the best for my condition. I’ve looked at hokas candense, brooks, and propet. I’m list not sure which ones are the best.
Hi,
Thanks for commenting! I am not in the medical profession, and honestly just recommend stylish shoes that fit people who wear leg braces. With leg braces, the shoes just need to fit comfortably as the leg braces are supposed to provide the support.
Thank you SO much for this post! This just made my day! You have no idea how grateful I am to have found your site.
And you just made my day too! I’m sooo happy you found the website & hope the blogs are helpful ?. I hope to see you on our Facebook page too ! http://www.facebook.com/Lainieish/
Xo
Lainie
Hi Lainie,
I thought I had written a post last week but it seems to have disappeared, hmm?. I just want to say how thankful I am to have stumbled upon your website. I was diagnosed with foot drop 8 years ago when they had to surgically remove a malignant tumor in my right leg. With the peripheral nerve being dissected, I lost all feeling in the bottom of my foot and I’ve relied on orthotics ever since. Most recently, I’d say over the past few years I’ve been using the blue Toe-off device which appears to be the one you are wearing as well.? . It’s a very discreet device and I rely on it heavily. I have had trouble finding decent shoes and have just pretty much worn the same pair for the past several years. This year I’ve decided to do more for myself, so finding your website came at the perfect time. It’s so nice to know that I’m not alone and that there are other people that go through this every day. As you know it’s quite a struggle. I have a question for you. Do you find that you have to wear a different size shoes.? I find that I have to get a larger size to accommodate my AFO. So I wind up having to buy two different size shoes. It’s extremely frustrating and gets very expensive. Just wondering if you had this difficulty or if you know of a certain way around so I don’t have to keep breaking the bank just to look stylish and be comfortable. Thank you again for putting all this together and making us feel stylish and trendy despite our disability.
You’re amazing!
Jamie
Jamie,
I love this! I’m so glad you decided to start doing more for yourself & that you found me & this website in the process! Definitely not a coincidence ?. I wear the Allard Blue Rocker which is a bit more intense than the Toe Off & their most supportive Afo. You are definitely not alone & I do know the struggle well. Here is a link to my post on buying just one shoe: https://www.trend-able.com/odd-shoe-out/
Check out the comments as some people recently commented & I have not updated it since. Also, this post will be helpful: https://www.trend-able.com/7-hacks-for-orthotics-afos/
Please let me know if you have any other questions ? Lainie
Hi Laine!
I just found a random magazine insert for a company called The Comfort Lab. I believe it is a British company offering wide and extra wide shoes. I don’t know much about them other than they have cute shoes and seem to be AFO accommodating. I’ve sent them an inquiry regarding discounts for those that have to order 2 pairs or if they can sell mis matched sizes. Have you heard anything about this company?
Just thought I’d check 🙂
All the best,
Jamie
Hi Jamie,
Have you heard back? I have not heard of them but I’m gonna check them out for sure. Thanks for letting me know!
Thank you, thank you, thank you! Living with MS for nearly 19 years, I have searched for and experimented with many shoe styles. I have an AFO (hate it) and an assortment of canes but it really does come down to THE SHOE. Can’t wait to go shopping!
Hi Lisa,
So happy you found me & the website ! I would love to know what works for you ???
Great post again, Lainie and I am delighted to have found some of these fab styles available in the UK. Thank you!! Claire (PainPalsBlog) x
Claire,
Thank you so much for reading & commenting! I truly value your opinion & appreciate the support.
Lainie, you get a STANDING OVATION for this incredibly detailed and well researched post! Thank you for getting it.
XOXO Julie
Thank you Julie!! You’re the best! ??
Great post! I’d love to know what the mary janes #6 in the third photo-hold me tight- are. Clicking on the picture takes me to beauty products on Amazon.
Sorry! Never mind — I found it!
??????
Hi Samantha,
So sorry about that. The photos weren’t supposed to be clickable as the shoes links are below it in a sliding box. Here is the link to that shoe: https://shopstyle.it/l/7lyE . Please lmk if you have any questions & thanks for reading. ?
Hi Lanie, may I ask what sandals are you wearing with your outfit on the landing page here?? Thank you!
Hi Rebecca,
The exact sandals I’m wearing are an older style but these are the same brand & very similar. They are a wide & I ordered 1/2 size up. : https://shopstyle.it/l/7ly8 Thanks for reaching out! ?
Hi Lanie, there are some awesome looking shoes on your list! I have suffered from foot drop for almost 3 years now and have struggled everyday to walk with the use of a brace, on my right foot. I’ve recently discovered a much smaller, less obvious brace, called the Step Smart brace that helps with my limitations and is hardly noticeable when wearing jeans. I’ve also found that shoes from Anodyne Shoes work great with this brace. I now wear sneakers and laced flat shoes that have given me back somewhat of a “style” to my wardrobe. However, I’ve recently tried a pair of Mary Jane type shoes that don’t work well. They are cut pretty low in the toe area and didn’t provide the coverage that is required for the front of my weak toes. I see a few pairs that are similar to this on your list. What is your recommendation on these types of footwear? My experience has been matching the footwear with the brace, and of course, finding the right brace. I am pretty happy with what I have and look forward to the continued changes in the industry.
Jessica,
Did you see my reply? I am not seeing it here. Please let me know
Hi Lainie, hope you are having a great day. I am unable to view your response to my post but I’m sure it was just as fabulous as you.
Ugh! I’m not sure where it went but I soooo appreciate your sweet comment & the fact that you read the Post. Xo Lainie
Now I can’t see your reply.
I have foot drop and wear an AFO.
The big plastic one.
Hi ,
I can’t see this thread either so not sure of the question/comment. Please reach out via email if I can help. ?
Thank you Lainie! I’m so glad I found your blog and pod casts! I was diagnosed with CMT a couple years ago, but have known for a long time I would probably have symptoms at some point, as my father and several of his siblings had CMT. I currently only wear a leg brace on my right foot. I have struggled finding shoes to wear since having the brace. I have found that I can wear tall stiff boots, such as cowgirl boots, and can manage without my brace for some dressy occasions. Although a dress and cowgirl boots isn’t super dressy, I feel dressy!
Hi Cynthia,
I’m so glad you found me & the blog too!! I’m curious what kind of Afo you wear on the one foot when you wear it? I did write a few posts that may help if you haven’t seen them yet? I will put links to them below & please reach out anytime with questions. ?Lainie
https://www.trend-able.com/odd-shoe-out/
https://www.trend-able.com/7-hacks-for-orthotics-afos/
Lainie you make me so happy. Thank you for all your hard work putting this together. I don’t wear braces but it’s getting harder to go without them. I’m gonna try some of the shoes you put in this post. Thank you again !
Wow! What an awesome first comment on this post! Thank you so much Lisa! You made my day. ?