Sciatica is a condition that causes pain in the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down to the legs. This can result in discomfort, numbness, and a tingling feeling in the affected area, making activities like standing or walking for extended periods of time difficult. However, wearing suitable footwear can help alleviate symptoms of sciatica.
When it comes to choosing the best shoes for sciatica, there are a few critical factors to consider. First and foremost, the shoes should provide excellent arch support and cushioning to reduce pressure on the feet and legs. They should also have a stable and comfortable sole that offers good traction and shock absorption.
Another essential factor to consider is the shoe’s fit. Shoes that are too tight or too loose can exacerbate the symptoms of sciatica, so it’s crucial to find the right size and shape for your feet. Additionally, shoes that are too heavy or bulky can put unnecessary strain on the legs and back, so lightweight and flexible options are preferred.
After researching and testing various options, we have identified the best shoes for sciatica that offer the right combination of support, comfort, and fit. By wearing these shoes, you can alleviate the symptoms of sciatica and go about your day with ease and comfort.
Best Shoes for Sciatica
If you suffer from sciatica, you know how debilitating it can be. Finding the right shoes can make all the difference in managing your symptoms. We’ve researched and tested various shoes to bring you our top picks for the best shoes for sciatica. These shoes offer the right amount of support, cushioning, and stability to help alleviate pain and discomfort. Check out our list below to find your perfect pair.
1. Ryka Women’s Devotion Plus 2 Walking Shoe
We highly recommend the Ryka Women’s Devotion Plus 2 Walking Shoe for anyone suffering from sciatica. The shoe’s exceptional cushioning, shock absorption, and Made for Women fit make it perfect for high-performance fitness walking.
Pros
- Responsive cushioning for shock absorption and impact protection
- Designed for a woman’s unique foot shape, muscle movement, and build
- Soft cushioning and lightweight EVA for comfortable walking
Cons
- Runs a bit large, so you may need to size down
- May not provide enough arch and heel support for some users
- Not suitable for running or other high-impact activities
We have found that the Ryka Women’s Devotion Plus 2 Walking Shoe is incredibly comfortable, even during long walks. The breathable engineered mesh and soft Lycra-lined tongue and collar with built-in cushioning provide a snug and comfortable fit. The anatomical insole with extra arch and heel support also adds to the shoe’s overall comfort.
The eight-piece rubber sole provides increased traction and durability, making it a great choice for outdoor walking. The shoe’s weight of 224 g/7.9 oz per shoe is also relatively light, which adds to its overall comfort.
Overall, the Ryka Women’s Devotion Plus 2 Walking Shoe is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a comfortable and supportive walking shoe. Its exceptional cushioning, shock absorption, and Made for Women fit make it perfect for anyone suffering from sciatica.
2. STQ Slip On Breathe Mesh Walking Shoes Women Fashion Sneakers
If you’re looking for comfortable slip-on shoes, the STQ Slip On Breathe Mesh Walking Shoes are an excellent choice.
Pros
- Comfortable for all-day wear
- Mesh material allows for breathability
- Stylish design
Cons
- Sizing may be tricky for some
- May be difficult to put on for those with mobility issues
- Material may be too tight on toes for some
We’ve had the STQ Slip On Breathe Mesh Walking Shoes for a few months now and have worn them for long periods of time. The shoes are incredibly comfortable and perfect for those who are on their feet all day. The mesh material allows for breathability, making them a great option for warmer weather. Additionally, the shoes have a stylish design that can be dressed up or down.
That being said, the sizing may be tricky for some. We found that they fit true to size, but those with wider feet may need to size up. Additionally, the material may be too tight on the toes for some, so it’s important to keep that in mind when purchasing. Lastly, the shoes may be difficult to put on for those with mobility issues, as they do not have laces or a zipper.
Overall, we highly recommend the STQ Slip On Breathe Mesh Walking Shoes for anyone in need of comfortable slip-on shoes.
3. Brooks Women’s Ghost 15 Neutral Running Shoe
If you’re looking for a comfortable and supportive shoe for sciatica, then the Brooks Women’s Ghost 15 Neutral Running Shoe is a great option.
Pros
- The shoe is made with a rubber sole that provides excellent traction and durability.
- The shoe is designed to be lightweight and breathable, which helps to keep your feet cool and comfortable.
- The shoe features a fabric-and-synthetic construction that provides a comfortable and supportive fit.
Cons
- The shoe is more expensive than some other options on the market.
- Some users have reported that the shoe runs large, so you may need to order a half size smaller than your usual size.
- The shoe may not be suitable for those with very wide feet.
We’ve been using the Brooks Women’s Ghost 15 Neutral Running Shoe for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its overall performance. The shoe is incredibly comfortable to wear, thanks to its cushioned sole and supportive construction. We also appreciate the shoe’s lightweight design, which makes it easy to wear for extended periods of time.
One thing to note is that the shoe is more expensive than some other options on the market. However, we think that the shoe’s high quality construction and materials make it worth the investment. Additionally, some users have reported that the shoe runs large, so you may need to order a half size smaller than your usual size.
Overall, we think that the Brooks Women’s Ghost 15 Neutral Running Shoe is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a comfortable and supportive shoe for sciatica. Its high quality construction and materials make it a durable and long-lasting option that will provide you with the support and comfort you need.
4. Orthofeet Women’s Coral Walking Shoe
We highly recommend the Orthofeet Women’s Coral Walking Shoe for anyone suffering from sciatica or other foot pain.
Pros
- The stretchable knitted fabric uppers offer a customized fit and eases pressure on bunions and hammertoes.
- The shoe has a cushioned heel that provides excellent support and shock absorption.
- The no-tie lace-up design makes it easy to slip on and off.
Cons
- The ankle area may be irritating for some users.
- The shoes may rub against the little toe.
- The tread may wear out quickly with regular use.
We were impressed with the Coral Walking Shoe’s ability to provide comfort and support for those with foot pain. The stretchable knitted fabric uppers adapt to the shape of your foot, reducing pressure on bunions and hammertoes. The cushioned heel offers excellent shock absorption and support, making it ideal for those with sciatica.
The no-tie lace-up design is a convenient feature, making it easy to slip on and off without having to fumble with laces. However, some users have reported that the ankle area can be irritating, and the shoes may rub against the little toe.
Overall, the Orthofeet Women’s Coral Walking Shoe is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a comfortable and supportive shoe to alleviate foot pain.
5. OrthoComfoot Comfortable Womens Orthopedic Walking Shoes
We recommend the OrthoComfoot Comfortable Womens Orthopedic Walking Shoes for those looking for a comfortable and supportive shoe for walking and standing for extended periods of time.
Pros
- Offers great arch support for those with plantar fasciitis or other foot conditions
- Made with a sturdy canvas upper and a thick, supportive sole
- Stylish design that can be worn for both casual and professional occasions
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the shoes run narrow and may not be suitable for those with wider feet
- A few customers have reported that the shoes run long, so it may be necessary to size down
- The footbed may not be as comfortable as some customers would like
These shoes are great for those who need a comfortable and supportive shoe for walking or standing for long periods of time. The arch support is especially helpful for those with plantar fasciitis or other foot conditions. The sturdy canvas upper and thick sole make for a durable shoe that can withstand daily wear and tear. Additionally, the stylish design of the shoe means that it can be worn for both casual and professional occasions.
However, some customers have reported that the shoes run narrow and may not be suitable for those with wider feet. It may be necessary to size up or consider a different shoe if you have wider feet. Additionally, some customers have reported that the footbed may not be as comfortable as they would like, so it may be necessary to add additional inserts for extra comfort. Overall, we recommend the OrthoComfoot Comfortable Womens Orthopedic Walking Shoes for those looking for a supportive and stylish shoe for daily wear.
6. New Balance Women’s 847 V4 Walking Shoe
If you’re looking for a comfortable and supportive walking shoe, the New Balance Women’s 847 V4 Walking Shoe is a great option.
Pros
- The TRUFUSE midsole provides responsive foam cushioning for softness on the trail or the street.
- The ROLLBAR stability post and TPU heel insert deliver enhanced structure for added support and stability.
- The leather construction and rubber outsole make these shoes durable and long-lasting.
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the sizing runs small.
- The toe box may be too narrow for some people.
- The shoes may be too heavy for some users.
We’ve been wearing the New Balance Women’s 847 V4 Walking Shoe for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its comfort and support. The TRUFUSE midsole provides excellent cushioning, and the ROLLBAR stability post and TPU heel insert offer added support and stability.
The leather construction and rubber outsole make these shoes durable and long-lasting, and we appreciate the stylish design. However, some customers have reported that the sizing runs small, so it may be a good idea to order a half size larger than your usual size. Additionally, the toe box may be too narrow for some people, so if you have wider feet, you may want to look for a different shoe. Finally, the shoes may be too heavy for some users, so keep that in mind if you’re looking for a lightweight shoe.
Overall, we think the New Balance Women’s 847 V4 Walking Shoe is a great choice for anyone looking for a comfortable and supportive walking shoe.
7. Skechers Women’s D’Lites-Life Saver Memory Foam Lace-up Sneaker
If you’re looking for a stylish and comfortable sneaker for sciatica, Skechers Women’s D’Lites-Life Saver Memory Foam Lace-up Sneaker is a great option.
Pros
- The memory foam provides excellent cushioning, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods.
- The sneakers are lightweight, which is great for those who are on their feet all day.
- The combination of black, white, and pink colors make it easy to match with different outfits.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the shoes are not as durable as they expected.
- The sizing may run a bit small, so it’s recommended to order a half size up.
- The arch support may not be sufficient for those with high arches.
We recently tested these shoes and were impressed with the level of comfort they provide. The memory foam insole molds to your feet, providing support and cushioning where you need it most. The sneakers are lightweight, making them perfect for all-day wear.
One thing to keep in mind is that the sizing may run a bit small. We recommend ordering a half size up to ensure a comfortable fit. Additionally, some users have reported that the shoes are not as durable as they expected, so it’s important to take care of them properly.
Overall, we think Skechers Women’s D’Lites-Life Saver Memory Foam Lace-up Sneaker is a great choice for those looking for a comfortable and stylish shoe for sciatica. With its combination of memory foam cushioning and lightweight design, it’s a shoe that you can wear all day without any discomfort.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best shoes for sciatica, there are a few key features that you should consider. We recommend keeping the following factors in mind when making your selection:
Arch Support
The arch of your foot plays a critical role in maintaining proper alignment and reducing pressure on your sciatic nerve. Look for shoes with adequate arch support to help keep your foot in a neutral position and reduce the likelihood of pain and discomfort.
Cushioning
The amount of cushioning in a shoe can make a big difference in how comfortable it is to wear. Shoes with too little cushioning can put excess pressure on your feet, while shoes with too much cushioning can reduce stability and make it more difficult to maintain proper form. Look for shoes with a moderate amount of cushioning that provide a good balance of support and comfort.
Flexibility
Shoes that are too stiff can limit your range of motion and cause discomfort, while shoes that are too flexible can lack the necessary support to protect your feet. Look for shoes that are flexible enough to allow for natural movement, but still provide enough structure to maintain proper alignment.
Fit
Perhaps the most important factor when choosing shoes for sciatica is the fit. Shoes that are too tight can put pressure on your feet and exacerbate pain, while shoes that are too loose can lack the necessary support to protect your feet. Look for shoes that fit snugly but not too tightly, with enough room to wiggle your toes.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can find the best shoes for sciatica that will provide the support and comfort you need to stay active and pain-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some good shoes for relieving sciatica pain?
When dealing with sciatica, it is important to choose shoes that provide proper support and cushioning. Some good options include shoes with a contoured footbed, shock-absorbing soles, and a wide toe box to allow for natural foot movement. Shoes with a low heel and good arch support can also help alleviate sciatic pain.
Can the right shoes help with sciatic nerve pain?
Yes, the right shoes can help alleviate sciatic nerve pain by providing proper support and cushioning. Choosing shoes with a contoured footbed, shock-absorbing soles, and good arch support can help alleviate pressure on the sciatic nerve and reduce pain.
What should I look for in shoes when dealing with sciatica?
When dealing with sciatica, it is important to look for shoes that provide proper support and cushioning. Shoes with a contoured footbed, shock-absorbing soles, and good arch support can help alleviate pressure on the sciatic nerve and reduce pain. A wide toe box can also help allow for natural foot movement.
Are there any specific shoe brands that are recommended for sciatica?
There are many shoe brands that offer shoes specifically designed for sciatica. Some popular options include New Balance, Brooks, and Asics. However, it is important to remember that everyone’s feet are different, and what works for one person may not work for another.
Is it better to wear shoes with good arch support for sciatica?
Yes, wearing shoes with good arch support can help alleviate sciatic pain by providing proper support and cushioning. Arch support helps distribute weight evenly across the foot, reducing pressure on the sciatic nerve.
What are some tips for choosing the best shoes for sciatica?
When choosing shoes for sciatica, it is important to consider the level of support and cushioning they provide. Look for shoes with a contoured footbed, shock-absorbing soles, and good arch support. A wide toe box can also help alleviate pressure on the sciatic nerve. It is also important to choose shoes that fit well and are comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
