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If you have diabetes, you’re already well aware of how crucial it is to take care of your feet. One small issue, like a blister or sore, can snowball into a serious complication. That’s why investing in proper footwear, shoes for diabetics in particular, isn’t just a comfort choice — it’s a medical necessity.

Diabetic shoes are specially designed to reduce pressure, prevent injury, and offer the support your feet need. Unfortunately, these shoes don’t last forever. As with any regular footwear, diabetic shoes wear out. And when they do, they can stop doing their job, putting your feet at risk.

So, how do you know when it’s time to swap them out for a new pair? Find out below as we break down eight common signs, along with a few bonus tips to help you stay one step ahead when it comes to foot health.

Sign #1: Your Soles Are Worn Thin

This is often the easiest problem to spot. Flip your shoes over and take a good look at the soles. Are they smooth or uneven? Can you feel less cushioning than you used to? If so, it’s time to consider a replacement.

Worn soles reduce shock absorption and can lead to instability in your gait. This uneven wear can increase localized pressure on specific parts of your feet — a major no-no if you have diabetes. For someone with neuropathy (nerve damage), that uneven pressure can go unnoticed until it causes a serious ulcer.

Keep in mind:

If one shoe wears out faster than the other, it may indicate a gait imbalance or leg-length discrepancy. It’s worth checking with your podiatrist to see if custom orthotics or corrective footwear could help.

Sign #2: You Feel Less Support Than Before

When you first got your first shoes for diabetes, they probably felt snug, structured, and supportive. However, even the best diabetic shoes eventually break down over time, especially in key areas like the arch and heel cup.

If your shoes now feel “mushy” or you find yourself slipping side to side in them, that support may have diminished. Lack of proper support can lead to arch collapse, plantar fasciitis, joint fatigue, or balance problems — all of which increase your risk for foot complications.  

Keep in mind:

If you experience foot fatigue, aching legs, or back discomfort after walking or standing, your shoes might be the culprit. They may no longer provide the biomechanical support your body needs.

Sign #3: You See Cracks, Holes, or Fraying

Shoes take a beating, especially when worn daily.

You wear them every day, they endure all kinds of weather, and they stretch with the shape of your foot over time. But even minor-looking damage, like fraying seams, small holes, or cracks in the upper material, can compromise the shoe’s ability to protect your feet.

This kind of wear and tear can let in moisture, increasing your risk for bacterial and fungal infections. They can also rub against your foot in places that should be cushioned, which is especially problematic if you have poor sensation in your feet. For a person with diabetes, even a tiny cut can spiral into a serious infection if not treated quickly.

Keep in mind:

Want to know a good rule of thumb? If you wouldn’t trust your shoes in the rain, you’re left with no choice but to retire them.

Sign #4: You Notice New Hot Spots or Redness on Your Feet

One of the best parts of diabetic shoes is how they minimize friction and pressure points. So, if you’re noticing red spots, blisters, or sore areas on your feet after wearing them, that’s a major red flag.

This could be due to worn-out internal padding, a breakdown in material, or changes in the shape of your foot. Diabetes can alter your foot structure over time, especially if you develop complications like Charcot foot or swelling due to neuropathy.

Keep in mind:

Hot spots can turn into open wounds, and untreated wounds can become infected. Take any new redness seriously, rather than ignoring it.

Sign #5: You Can’t Remember When You Bought Them

If you’re drawing a blank trying to remember when you last got a new pair, it’s probably been too long. Diabetic shoes are medical-grade, but they still wear out, especially if you’re wearing them most days.

Generally, diabetic shoes should be replaced every 12 to 15 months, depending on how heavily they’re used. If you’re especially active or wear the same pair daily, that timeline could shrink to as little as 8 to 10 months.

Keep in mind:

That said, set a yearly reminder in your calendar to evaluate your shoes and see if they need replacing.

Sign #6: Your Foot Health Has Changed

Maybe you’ve recently developed a bunion, hammertoe, or swelling in one foot. Or perhaps your doctor has modified your treatment plan due to circulation changes. Even slight changes in weight can impact how your feet distribute pressure and, by extension, how your shoes fit.

Diabetic shoes are meant to match your current foot shape and needs. If your feet have changed, your shoes should too. That might mean resizing, custom orthotics, or switching to a different shoe design altogether.

Keep in mind:

A well-fitted shoe yesterday doesn’t mean it’s still right today. A check-in with your podiatrist can help ensure that things are moving in the right direction.

Sign #7: Your Shoes Feel Too Tight or Too Loose

Fit is everything when it comes to diabetic shoes. If your shoes have started to feel too snug, pinch in certain areas, or slip around when you walk, they may no longer be the right size for your feet, even if they once were.

Changes in foot size or shape can happen gradually due to factors like swelling (edema), neuropathy, arthritis, or even natural aging. Loose shoes can cause friction and blisters, while tight ones can restrict circulation or put pressure on sensitive areas.

Be sure to keep an eye on these signs:

• Heel slippage
• Toes feeling cramped
• Needing to tighten or loosen laces more than usual
• New pressure points or discomfort

Keep in mind:

If the fit feels off, don’t ignore it. Schedule a fitting with your podiatrist or shoe provider to ensure your footwear still matches your current foot shape and needs.

Sign #8: Your Shoes Smell Funny

This one might sound a little silly, but hear us out.

If your shoes smell funky, it could be a sign that they’re retaining moisture, especially if you’ve dealt with foot sweat, wet weather, or just everyday wear. And when moisture gets trapped, it creates the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and fungi.

For someone with diabetes, any fungal infection (like athlete’s foot) can be tough to fight off and can lead to bigger issues. If a good cleaning doesn’t fix the problem, it might be time to say goodbye to your diabetic shoes and invest in a new pair.

Keep in mind:

Let your shoes air out overnight and always wear moisture-wicking socks. Avoid going barefoot in them, even indoors.

How Long Do Diabetic Shoes Typically Last?

On average, most diabetic shoes are designed to last between 9 and 15 months, depending on the following factors:

Daily Use vs. Occasional Wear

The more often you wear your shoes, the faster they'll wear out. Daily use causes constant pressure and friction, which breaks down the cushioning, support, and materials faster than occasional or part-time use.

Body Weight

Heavier weight increases the pressure and stress on the shoe’s structure and padding. This leads to quicker compression of the insoles and breakdown of support features like arch reinforcement or heel stability.

Activity Level

More walking or time spent on your feet naturally leads to more wear and tear. Even if your shoes look fine, frequent movement breaks down internal support systems faster than a sedentary lifestyle would.

Type of Terrain You Walk On

Hard, uneven, or abrasive surfaces (like concrete or gravel) are tougher on shoes than smooth indoor flooring. Rough terrain increases the likelihood of sole damage, fraying, and faster breakdown of the outer materials.

Moisture Exposure  

Moisture can warp materials, break down adhesives, and encourage bacterial and fungal growth. Even sweat buildup over time can lead to odor, deterioration, and the need for earlier replacement.

Some Medicare plans cover one new pair of diabetic shoes per year, along with three sets of inserts, so take advantage of that benefit if you're eligible.

Tips for Making Your Diabetic Shoes Last Longer

Want to stretch the life of your shoes while still staying safe? Here’s how:

Rotate Between Two Pairs

Wearing the same pair every day gives them no time to recover or dry out. Rotating between two pairs allows the materials to breathe and bounce back, extending their overall lifespan.

Use a Shoehorn

A shoehorn helps you slide your foot in without bending or crushing the heel. This keeps the shoe’s structure intact, especially the heel counter that provides stability and support.

Keep Them Clean and Dry

Dirt and moisture can wear down the materials and promote bacteria or fungi. Wipe shoes with a damp cloth and mild soap, then let them air dry thoroughly before wearing them again.

Store Indoors

Leaving shoes in damp, hot, or humid places (like a garage or porch) can warp materials and break down adhesives. Store them inside in a cool, dry place to maintain their shape and support.

Use Custom Orthotic Inserts (and Replace Them)

Orthotic inserts wear out, too! Replacing them every few months ensures your shoes continue offering the pressure relief and alignment your feet need. Fresh inserts = consistent support.

Alternate with Slippers or House Shoes Indoors

Wearing your diabetic shoes indoors can lead to faster wear, especially on clean, smooth flooring. Switch to diabetic-friendly slippers or house shoes when at home to give your main pair a break.

Avoid Heat Sources (No Dryer or Heater!)

Drying your shoes with a space heater or tossing them in the dryer can weaken adhesives, warp soles, and ruin the interior. That said, always air dry them naturally and away from direct heat.

Remember, even with great care, shoes that look fine on the outside can lose their internal structure over time. It’s not just about appearance; it’s about function.

Why Replacing Your Diabetic Shoes Matters

Let’s put it simply: diabetic shoes are your front-line defense in protecting your health. When they wear out, they can no longer:

• Distribute pressure evenly
• Prevent skin breakdown and ulcers
• Accommodate structural foot changes
• Reduce the risk of infection or injury

Worn-out shoes increase your risk for:  

• Pressure ulcers
• Plantar ulcers
• Calluses and corns
• Balance issues
• Infection
• Nerve-related injuries
• Amputation in severe cases

The bottom line is that your shoes should protect your feet, not put them in danger. Staying ahead of wear and tear isn’t just about comfort but prevention and peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

Replacing your diabetic shoes might seem like just another item on your to-do list, but it can save you from a whole lot of pain (and expense) down the road. Think of your shoes like tires on a car: they need maintenance and replacement to keep you moving safely.

So, if your soles are shot, their support is fading, or your shoes just don’t feel right anymore, it’s time for an upgrade. Your feet will thank you.

Need Help Finding the Perfect Pair of Shoes for Diabetics?

We’ve got your back — and your feet.

At No Cost Shoes, we make it easy to stay on top of your foot health with Medicare-approved diabetic shoes and custom fittings that prioritize comfort and care. Plus, we’ll walk you through eligibility, coordinate with your healthcare plan, and manage the paperwork from start to finish.

Reach out today, and let’s make sure your feet are getting the protection they deserve. When your feet are in good hands, the rest of you can keep moving forward with confidence.