Features > Top Health Shoes | CheckoutSpy.co.uk

Top Health Shoes

Since the popularity of the MBT trainer several years ago, many new shoes have come onto the market claiming to help ease the pain of several different foot conditions - from diabetes and swollen ankles, to helping tone the legs. But which pair of these health shoes is best for you?

Skechers Shape-Ups
Good for: Plantar fasciitis, aching joints, toning the legs

The Skecher shape-up looks like an ordinary trainer with a thicker, rounded sole. The sole is specially designed to simulate walking on soft ground. This is said to promote correct posture which in turn eases stress on the legs joints and helps to strengthen and tone up the leg muscles. In fact, each step is said to help put a strain of three to four times your body weight on your joints with the thick soles help to reduce the impact.

Koryl
Good for: Diabetics, swollen feet, arthritis

Koryl shoes are made of fabric and are available up to a EEEEE+ size (super-wide) with further extension pieces also available. This means they are suitable for anyone who suffers from badly swollen feet. However it is important that the shoe doesn't slip around too much when walking. The Koryl shoes have no seams which means that they may also be a good option for anyone with diabetes who suffers from thin skin on the feet however they won't offer much damage against cuts and bruises.

Scholl Orthaheel Miami
Good for: Painful heels, knees & lower back.

The Scholl Orthaheel Miami looks a little bit like a flip flop. Where it differs from standard flip flops is that one side of the sole is higher than the other to help prevent the foot rolling over and in. The strap is also solid meaning there should be less sliding around than with a traditional flip flop. By preventing the foot from rotating inwards, they can help prevent or lessen the pain associated with fallen arches.

Fitflops
Good for: Aching joints

Fitflops look similar to the traditional flip flop however the sole actually varies in density. This means that to maintain a normal balance whilst walking, the user has to work harder than normal ensuring the legs are toned as you walk. The sole is also padded to help give some shock absorbency.

Worishofer Shoes
Good for: Bunions

Worishofer shoes were designed by a German podiatrist to help support the feet and reduce the strain on the leg joints and back. The strap across the foot is adjustable so it can fit most sizes of feet. The thick cork heel helps to reduce the strain on the back and legs by acting as a mini shock absorber. However despite the adjustable strap, they may still aggravate larger bunions with prolonged use therefore they are probably only useful if you have smaller bunions.

Beech Sandals
Good for: Aching feet, bunions, plantar fasciitis

Beech sandals look like traditional flip flops however there is a twist - they have four toe separators instead of just the one. By spreading the toes apart, they are said to help realign the feet giving relief to sufferers of plantar fasciitis and bunions.

(Photo Credit: Erik Araujo)