What Is Foot Drop?
Foot drop, also known as drop foot, is a condition in which the muscles that lift the front part of the foot are weak or paralyzed. This results in the foot drooping or dragging on the ground while walking.
Foot drop can occur in one or both feet and can be caused by a variety of underlying medical conditions, such as nerve damage, muscle disease, or stroke. Symptoms of foot drop include difficulty lifting the front part of the foot, foot dragging, and tripping or stumbling while walking.
Treatment options include physical therapy, splints, and ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) to help lift the foot, as well as medications and nerve stimulation to alleviate symptoms. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to address the underlying condition.
It is important to consult a healthcare professional if you are experiencing foot drop or any other symptoms of nerve or muscle damage. They can help diagnose the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan to help manage the condition and improve mobility.
How To Choose Shoes For Foot Drop
If you have been dealing with the condition of foot drop, it is important to take steps to correct the problem. Foot drop is often caused by weakness or damage to the sciatic nerve or paralysis of muscles in the anterior part of the foot. One of the best ways to alleviate pain associated with foot drop is by selecting the right shoes. When it comes to choosing the best shoes for foot drop, there are a few key factors to consider.
- Firstly, the shoe must have ample space to accommodate the use of an Ankle-Foot-Orthosis (AFO) device or elevated brace for foot drop. The shoe should also have enough toe space and extra depth, as well as removable insoles that can be used in conjunction with prescribed orthotics.
- Secondly, the shoe must provide support for the arch and fascia ligament to alleviate pain and plantar fasciitis. It should also aid in proper alignment of the foot when it touches the ground and have enough cushioning for rough terrains.
- Comfort and breathability are also crucial when choosing the best shoes for foot drop. The uppers should be dry and cool to prevent sweating, and the shoe should be snug and fit well with minimal break-in time.
- Additionally, the shoe should have good stability and shock-absorption to deal with pain points, and have a sturdy sole for protection and proper grip.
When it comes to finding the best shoes for foot drop, it is important to keep these key factors in mind to ensure the best fit and maximum comfort.
What To Avoid If You Have A Dropped Foot
When dealing with foot drop, it is important to choose the right shoes to help alleviate pain and improve mobility. However, it is also important to know what shoes to avoid.
- High heels should be avoided as they can cause an unstable gait, leading to falls or tripping. Additionally, shoes that do not provide enough support for the arch and fascia ligament can exacerbate pain and plantar fasciitis.
- Shoes that are too tight or constricting should also be avoided as they can make it difficult to wear an Ankle-Foot-Orthosis (AFO) device or elevated brace for foot drop. Moreover, shoes that are not breathable can lead to discomfort and sweating, and can cause foot odor.
- Another type of shoes that should be avoided are flip-flops or sandals. These shoes do not offer enough support to the feet and can cause discomfort and pain in the foot. Additionally, they do not provide enough protection against slips, trips and falls.
- Lastly, shoes that are worn out or have worn out soles should be avoided as well. These shoes can cause discomfort, instability and put you at risk of slips, trips and falls. It is important to replace the shoes when they are worn out, to ensure proper foot support and stability.
In summary, when dealing with foot drop, it is important to avoid shoes that are high heels, tight or constricting, poorly ventilated, flip-flops or sandals and worn out. It is important to choose shoes that provide enough support, comfort, breathability and stability to the feet. This will help alleviate pain, improve mobility and reduce the risk of slips, trips and falls.
Best Shoes for Foot Drop: Our Top Picks
When it comes to dealing with foot drop, finding the right shoes can make a big difference in alleviating pain and improving mobility. The right shoes provide support, stability, and comfort, making it easier to manage the condition. In this compilation, we've gathered some of the best shoes for foot drop on the market, taking into account factors such as ample space for orthotics, arch support, breathability, stability, and overall comfort.
Whether you're looking for a casual shoe for daily wear or a performance shoe for athletic activities, you'll find a variety of options to choose from. We hope this compilation will make it easier for you to find the perfect shoe to help manage your foot drop and improve your quality of life.
Best Overall: Xero Shoes Men's Prio Cross Training Shoe
If you're looking for a shoe to help manage foot drop, the Xero Shoes Men's Prio Cross Training Shoe is a great option to consider. The wide toe box allows your toes to spread and relax, while the Xero Drop sole offers a non-elevated heel and is low-to-the-ground, promoting proper posture, balance, and agility for all-round performance.
One of the key features of the Prio shoe is its flexibility, it's designed to bend and move naturally with your feet, and it's even able to roll up and fit into your pack or pocket. The non-elevated, zero-drop heel allows for proper posture and being low to the ground it helps you maintain balance and agility. With a stack height of 7-8mm, it provides a natural feel to your steps.
Additionally, the patented FeelTrue sole gives you just-right protection while providing ground feedback and stimulation for your feet and brain. The huarache sandal-inspired reflective lacing system secures your heel and the adjustable instep straps hold down your midfoot, ensuring that the shoe stays in place and provide the support you need.
In conclusion, the Xero Shoes Men's Prio Cross Training Shoe is a great option for those dealing with foot drop. With its wide toe box, flexible sole, non-elevated heel, and patented FeelTrue sole, it provides the support and comfort needed to manage the condition and improve mobility. The reflective lacing system and adjustable instep straps ensure that the shoe stays in place and provide the support you need.
Technical Features:
- The Xero Drop sole offers a non-elevated heel and is low-to-the-ground, promoting proper posture, balance, and agility for all-round performance.
- Ultra-thin barefoot design, suitable for wearing with or without socks. The optional 2mm insole allows you to adjust the "barefoot feel" to your preference.
- Vegan friendly, made with zero animal products, promoting healthy and sustainable.
Pros:
- Promotes proper posture, balance, and agility with the Xero Drop sole and low-to-the-ground design.
- Wide toe box allows toes to spread and relax.
- Flexible sole allows for natural bending and movement of the feet.
- Can be rolled up and fit into a pack or pocket for easy transport.
- Non-elevated, zero-drop heel allows for proper posture.
- 7-8mm stack height provides a natural feel to the steps.
- Patented FeelTrue sole provides just-right protection and ground feedback and stimulation for feet and brain.
- Reflective lacing system and adjustable instep straps ensure the shoe stays in place and provides support.
- Vegan-friendly, made with zero animal products, promoting healthy and sustainable lifestyles.
Cons:
- None that we could find.
Best Budget Pick: WHITIN Men's Cross-Trainer
Men's Cross-Trainer is the ultimate shoe for those who demand a secure and slip-resistant fit. With its unique MC pod construct in the forefoot, this shoe provides an efficient balance for your foot shape, allowing for stable positioning during your runs. The innovative outsole is made of sticky-grip rubber, which guarantees superior traction, grip, and durability on any terrain. The synthetic-design sole also ensures a proper grip even on the most slippery surfaces.
Whether you're an avid runner or just looking for a comfortable shoe for daily wear, this cross-trainer is the perfect choice. It comes in a variety of sizes, from 7.5 to 15, with extra-wide coverage, and four different colors to choose from. Additionally, it features an extended and progressive variant of a diagonal rollbar that supports your foot arch strategically, helping to keep your body working on its natural pathway for maximum support. Make your purchase today and experience the benefits of the WHITIN Men's Cross-Trainer.
Technical Features:
- Padded rear collar pad for ultimate comfort and support of the Achilles area.
- 5 mm POWER FOOTBED for superior underfoot cushioning and shock absorption.
- Engineered knit upper that conforms to the shape of your foot, providing a sock-like fit and flexible feel.
- Zero-drop, non-elevated sole designed to promote proper posture and balance while walking or running.
- Sticky-grip rubber outsole that offers exceptional grip, traction, and durability.
Pros:
- Provides a secure and slip-resistant fit with its unique MC pod construct in the forefoot.
- Offers an efficient balance for the foot shape, allowing for stable positioning during runs.
- Innovative outsole made of sticky-grip rubber guarantees superior traction, grip, and durability on any terrain.
- Synthetic-design sole ensures a proper grip even on slippery surfaces.
- Available in a variety of sizes with extra-wide coverage and four different colours to choose from.
- Features an extended and progressive variant of a diagonal rollbar that supports the foot arch strategically, helping to keep the body working on its natural pathway for maximum support.
- Padded rear collar pad for ultimate comfort and support of the Achilles area.
- 5 mm POWER FOOTBED for superior underfoot cushioning and shock absorption.
- Engineered knit upper that conforms to the shape of your foot, providing a sock-like fit and flexible feel.
- Zero-drop, non-elevated sole designed to promote proper posture and balance while walking or running.
- Sticky-grip rubber outsole that offers exceptional grip, traction, and durability.
Cons:
- Some users may find the shoe too tight or uncomfortable if the size is not properly fit.
- The shoe may not be suitable for those who prefer more cushioning in the footbed.
Best For Women: New Balance Women's 813 V1 Lace-up Walking Shoe
Introducing the New Balance 813 V1 - the perfect shoe for those who demand durability and stability on the road. Made with a high-quality rubber sole that can withstand any abrasion or rough terrain, this shoe is built to last. The added grip makes it ideal for any slippery, dusty, or dingy road, giving you the confidence to keep moving.
The New Balance 813 V1 is also designed to keep your feet dry and comfortable. The durable leather upper not only repels water but also allows for ample breathability, thanks to the mesh plus leather upper combination. This makes it the perfect shoe for those who are concerned about sweating and discomfort.
Stay steady on your feet with the Rollbar stability feature. This technology helps control the movements in the rear-foot, providing enhanced support with each step you take. The foot-friendly design ensures that you step out in comfort, while the cushioned shoes are designed to help you keep moving, even with a foot drop problem. Upgrade your walking experience today with the New Balance 813 V1.
Technical Features:
- High-quality leather upper that is durable, water-resistant, and breathable.
- Available in extended width sizes for a comfortable fit.
- Medicare/Hspcs Code = Pdac A5500 Diabetic Shoes, making it suitable for those with foot conditions.
- ROLLBAR stability post system that controls rear-foot movement for enhanced support and stability.
- Walking Strike Path technology that guides the foot through the natural gait cycle for improved comfort and performance.
Pros:
- Made with high-quality rubber sole that can withstand any abrasion or rough terrain, ensuring durability and longevity.
- The added grip makes it ideal for any slippery, dusty, or dingy road, giving you the confidence to keep moving.
- Durable leather upper that is water-resistant and breathable, ensuring your feet stay dry and comfortable.
- Available in extended width sizes for a comfortable fit.
- Medicare/Hspcs Code = Pdac A5500 Diabetic Shoes, making it suitable for those with foot conditions.
- ROLLBAR stability post system that controls rear-foot movement for enhanced support and stability.
- Walking Strike Path technology that guides the foot through the natural gait cycle for improved comfort and performance.
Cons:
- Some users may find the shoe not fitting comfortably if the size is not properly fit.
Great For Everyday Use: Brooks Men's Addiction Walker V-Strap
Experience all-day, everyday comfort and support with the Brooks Addiction Walker V-Strap 2. This shoe is designed with your foot's natural motion in mind, featuring Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar support for your entire body, with strategically positioned arch support to guide and keep your body in its natural path of motion. As a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe, it's the perfect choice for those who suffer from foot drop problems.
Made with 100% leather, the Brooks Addiction Walker V-Strap 2 is built to last and withstand your daily wear needs. The soft cushioning with BioMoGo DNA adapts to your walking stride, speed, and weight, making each step you take feel like walking on clouds. So, whether you're running errands or taking a long walk, these shoes will keep your feet feeling fresh and energized. Upgrade your walking experience today with the Brooks Addiction Walker V-Strap 2.
Technical Features:
- BioMoGo DNA adapts to your stride, weight and speed, helping to reduce impact on your joints and providing exceptional comfort.
- Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar acts as a support system for your entire body, with vital arch support to assist your body in its natural state of motion.
- Innovative outsole designed to be slip-resistant, ensuring you can walk with confidence.
- Full-grain upper leather offers durability and a classic look, perfect for everyday wear.
Pros:
- Designed to provide all-day comfort and support, with Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar support for your entire body, and strategically positioned arch support to guide and keep your body in its natural path of motion.
- Certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe, suitable for those with foot drop problems.
- Made with 100% leather, built to last and withstand daily wear.
- Soft cushioning with BioMoGo DNA adapts to your walking stride, speed, and weight, making each step feel like walking on clouds.
- Innovative outsole designed to be slip-resistant, ensuring you can walk with confidence.
- Full-grain upper leather offers durability and a classic look, perfect for everyday wear.
Cons:
- The shoe may not be suitable for those who prefer more breathable upper material.
Best Everyday Option For Women: Orthofeet Arch Support Mary Jane's
Orthofeet's Chelsea shoe is a must-have for daily wear. Its upper is crafted from leather to provide breathability and water resistance. The shoe also features a low heel measuring 0.25 inches, offering ample arch support to ensure a comfortable walk.
Available in three stylish colors and sizes ranging from 5 to 12 with extra-wide coverage, this shoe is perfect for those with sensitive feet.
With a 60-day comfort guarantee, you can try them out risk-free and return them if they don't meet your expectations. The therapeutic design of the shoe helps alleviate stress on the feet, while the soft uppers and smooth lining provide superior comfort and protection.
Technical Features:
- Therapeutic design that targets foot pain with arch support and an arch booster.
- Cushioning ergonomic sole for added comfort and support.
- Extended widths and a wide, roomy toe box for a non-binding fit.
- Extra depth design for added comfort in the front part of the foot and toes.
- Removable insoles (¼” thick in the forefoot area) for the option to add custom orthotics.
Pros:
- Breathable and water-resistant leather upper.
- Low heel with ample arch support for comfortable walking.
- Available in three stylish colors and a range of sizes with extra-wide coverage.
- Perfect for those with sensitive feet.
- 60-day comfort guarantee for risk-free trying.
- Therapeutic design helps alleviate stress on the feet.
- Soft uppers and smooth lining provide superior comfort and protection.
- Technical features such as arch support, arch booster, cushioning ergonomic sole, extended. widths, wide toe box, extra depth design, and removable insoles for custom orthotics.
Cons:
- The shoe may not be suitable for doing sports.
Editor’s Choice: Avia Avi-Union II Strap Non Slip Shoes for Men
The breathability of these shoes is top-notch thanks to the strategically placed holes on the sides and upper front of the shoe. The enclosed design ensures that your feet don't feel stuffy and trapped, while the lightweight rubber sole provides long-lasting durability on any surface.
The tie-up design ensures a secure fit, preventing the risk of the shoes coming off unexpectedly. The shaft measures an approximate height from the low-top to the arch area, providing a comfortable and stable fit.
Made from durable and lightweight synthetic leather, these shoes can withstand even the toughest conditions without breaking down. The memory foam-based sock liner helps absorb pressure from different parts of the feet, providing excellent shock absorption.
The insole is not only comfortable but also features a high-quality EVA foam midsole for added cushioning and a fluffy feel. These shoes are perfect for anyone looking for a comfortable and durable footwear option.
Technical Features:
- Thick rubber soles with oil and slip resistant tread pattern for enhanced grip.
- Soles designed to prevent trapping of oil and liquid, and non-marking.
- Tested in accordance with ASTM F2913, the official standard for slip-resistant footwear in the United States.
- Removable memory foam sock liner for added cushioning and support.
- Compression-molded EVA midsole for added support and stability.
- Anatomical heel cradle and Avia's Cantilever Technology to center and stabilize the heel.
Pros:
- Breathable design with holes on the sides and upper front of the shoe.
- Lightweight rubber sole provides long-lasting durability on any surface.
- Tie-up design ensures a secure fit and prevents the shoes from coming off unexpectedly.
- The shaft measures an approximate height from the low-top to the arch area, providing a comfortable and stable fit.
- Made from durable and lightweight synthetic leather, can withstand tough conditions without breaking down.
- Memory foam-based sock liner helps absorb pressure and provides excellent shock absorption.
- Insole is comfortable and features a high-quality EVA foam midsole for added cushioning and a fluffy feel.
- Suitable for anyone looking for a comfortable and durable footwear option.
- Thick rubber soles with oil and slip-resistant tread pattern for enhanced grip.
- Soles are designed to prevent trapping of oil and liquid, and non-marking.
- Tested in accordance with ASTM F2913, the official standard for slip-resistant footwear in the United States.
- Removable memory foam sock liner for added cushioning and support.
- Compression-molded EVA midsole for added support and stability.
- Anatomical heel cradle and Avia's Cantilever Technology to center and stabilize the heel.
Cons:
- The shoe may not be suitable for people with wide foot or high arch.
- The shoe may not be suitable for those who prefer elevated soles.
Also Great: DREAMEAGLE Waterproof Golf Shoes
Thanks to these shoes’ high-quality waterproof material, you don't have to worry about dewy mornings or the rainy season affecting your game.
When purchasing these shoes, we recommend buying one size up if you plan to wear thick socks during winter training. On the other hand, if you're buying them for summer, it's best to follow our suggestions for a perfect fit.
These ultra-light and comfortable golf shoes will give you an effortless and enjoyable experience on the course. You'll be able to move around freely and complete your game with ease. Don't let uncomfortable shoes hold you back from reaching your full potential.
Technical features:
- The high-quality waterproof material ensures that you stay dry in wet conditions, allowing you to play with confidence regardless of the weather.
- The waterproof design is effective in preventing moisture from seeping in, ensuring that your feet remain dry and comfortable throughout your game.
- The spikeless sole provides an excellent grip without damaging the turf.
- The sole's design is optimized for stability and support, ensuring that you maintain balance while swinging and walking around the course.
Pros:
- These golf shoes are ultra-lightweight, providing a comfortable experience on the course.
- They are designed to reduce fatigue and foot stress, allowing you to focus on your game without any discomfort.
- These waterproof golf shoes are designed for professionals and amateurs alike, providing exceptional performance on the golf course.
- The stylish white and blue color combination ensures that you look great while playing your best game.
Cons:
- Not the best option for everyday use.
Heavy-Duty Pick: New Balance Men's Composite Toe 589 V1 Industrial Shoe
The slip-resistant outsole has been tested according to the ASTM F2913-17 standard, providing superior traction on various surfaces, including wet and oily surfaces. You can be confident in your footing, knowing that our shoes are designed to prevent slips and falls on the job.
These shoes meet the ASTM F2413-17 I/75 and C/75 impact and compression safety standards, which provides an extra layer of protection for your feet. You can be confident that your feet will remain safe even in the most hazardous working conditions.
In addition, these safety shoes meet the ASTM 2413-17 and ASTM 2892-11 electrical hazard standards. This ensures that our shoes provide secondary underfoot protection against the hazards of stepping on live electrical circuits, electrically engaged conductors, parts, or apparatus. You can be assured that our shoes will protect you against electrical hazards in the workplace.
The REVlite midsole is another excellent feature of our safety shoes. It delivers incredibly lightweight cushioning, making it easier for you to move around and perform your job with ease. You won't have to worry about feeling weighed down, even after a long day on the job.
Technical Features:
- The work shoes are made with a combination of 50% leather and 50% synthetic materials to deliver optimal durability, flexibility, and breathability.
- They are imported, ensuring that you receive the best quality and craftsmanship available.
- The shoes feature a rubber sole that provides superior traction and grip on various surfaces, including wet and oily surfaces. You can confidently move around and perform your job with ease.
- The composite toe cap is a standout feature of our work shoes. It provides extra protection for your toes without compromising comfort. This innovative design meets industry safety standards while still offering comfort for all-day wear.
Pros:
- The work shoes are made with a combination of leather and synthetic materials, which makes them durable, flexible, and breathable. This ensures that the shoes can withstand the demands of daily use while remaining comfortable to wear.
- The shoes are imported, guaranteeing the quality and craftsmanship of the product. This ensures that you will receive the best possible product available on the market.
- The rubber sole provides superior traction and grip on various surfaces, including wet and oily surfaces. This makes it easier for you to move around and perform your job with ease.
- The composite toe cap provides extra protection for your toes without compromising comfort. This ensures that your feet are well-protected while still allowing you to wear the shoes for extended periods.
Cons:
- Might seem heavy enough.
Best Shoes for Dropped Foot: Our Conclusions
When it comes to finding the perfect shoe to manage foot drop, there are a few key features to look for. One important aspect is the toe box, which should be wide enough to let your toes spread and relax. The Xero Drop sole is another feature to consider, as it offers a non-elevated heel and is low-to-the-ground, which promotes proper posture, balance, and agility for all-round performance.
The Prio shoes are a great option for those dealing with foot drop, as they are flexible and can be rolled up to fit in a pack or pocket. The non-elevated, zero-drop heel allows for proper posture and its low to the ground for balance and agility. With 7-8mm stack height, you can be sure that it will provide a natural feel to your steps.
Another great option to consider are shoes with a patented FeelTrue sole, which provide just-right protection and ground feedback and stimulation for your feet and brain. The huarache sandal-inspired reflective lacing system secures your heel and the adjustable instep straps hold down your midfoot. This ensures that the shoe stays in place and provide the support you need.
In summary, when looking for shoes to manage foot drop, it's important to look for shoes with a wide toe box, a non-elevated heel and low-to-the-ground, a flexible sole and a good lacing system to keep it secure on your foot.
