Accidents happen a lot. You could be walking down the stairs and the next minute you are rolling on the floor with a broken foot. Routine workouts can also lead to accidental slips and bone fractures. Yes, but that’s life, and some things are inevitable, right?
But the million-dollar question is, what do you do after a broken foot? A lot of people break their feet and a lot more take a longer duration to heal from them. What many don’t know is that shoes play a huge role in their recovery. Unfortunately, most of us end up buying crappy shoes (but don’t be too hard on yourself. There is an insane amount of bad shoes out there).
Also, a good number of blogs you visit tend to misinform on what exactly the best shoes for broken foot recovery should look like. But since you are here, we will go over a few reliable options that you can depend on every day for the rest of your recovery period. Without wasting a second, let’s hop over to the review section.
Table of Contents
Best Shoes To wear After a Broken foot 2020
Here are the best shoes that you can wear after a broken foot to expedite recovery:
1. United Ortho Short Air Cam Walker Fracture Boot
United Ortho Short Air Cam Walker Fracture Boot is a top choice for many people. On Amazon alone, it boasts of over 5k heart-warming reviews and top ratings. But the question remains, how can it help you recover from a broken foot?
First, the support is simply (for lack of a better word) amazing. This walker features plastic molded uprights and steel reinforcements that keep your feet erect. This reduces possible ankle collapse. Additionally, these walls prolong the shoe’s life to be used by someone else (could be your friend, better half, or sibling).
United Ortho Short Air Cam Walker is also cherished for promoting a natural gait. This is made possible by the inclusion of a rocker sole that helps you keep up with your daily activities. There is a medial/lateral air bladder at the top that allows you to inflate or deflate the shoe for a custom fit that keeps Edema at bay.
Hold on, that’s not all. This stiff-soled shoe for the broken foot is wide, can accommodate any foot, and features a padded insole that bumps up cushioning. No matter your feet size, this walker arrives in both small, medium, and extra-large choices for your convenience. It comes with a 6-month warranty-how cool is that?
Features
- Universal design
- Sizes available: small, extra small, medium, large and extra-large sizes
- Rocker, shock-absorbing outsoles
- Cushy insole
- Wide footbed
- 6-month warranty
- Ideal for acute ankle sprains, foot fractures, soft tissue injuries, and post-surgery use
Pros:
- Provides unparalleled stability
- Durably constructed
- An affordable, high-quality medical product
- Can be worn on any foot
- Sufficiently comfy
Cons:
- No huge flaws worth reporting
United Ortho Short Air Cam Walker Fracture Boot is a top pick for people who are looking for wide shoes that can allow them to put on some socks or bandages. It is also ideal for those with edema and other foot swelling conditions as it allows for a custom lose fit. If you want to learn how to put it on, then watch its demonstration video.
2. Aircast Airselect Walker Brace
If you are looking for a shoe for broken foot recovery that offers upper leg support, try Aircast Airselect Walker Brace. This is a premium-grade medical gear made from a semi-rigid supportive shell to help you recover without having to put a stop to your daily business.
The soft-strike impact-absorbing technology ensures this medical contraption provides as much cushioning as needed. The duplex air cells can be adjusted to provide the right compression to avoid possible Edema.
Aircast Airselect Walker Brace comes with a lightweight, lab-tested rocker outsole with reliable traction for both indoor and outdoor strolls. Like most shoes for fractured foot, this one takes on a universal design and thus is great for both feet.
Features
- Semi-rigid supportive shell
- Lightweight rocker sole
- Duplex air cells
- Universal fit
- Well-ventilated open frames
- Impact-absorbing
Pros:
- Supreme shock-absorption
- Fully breathable
- Customizable fit
- Long-lasting rigid shells
- Lightweight performance for moving around a lot
Cons:
- No major quality flaws
Aircast Airselect Walker Brace has a confident design with good support, comfort, and fit. Inflation and deflation happen through an inbuilt pump and therefore no need for special devices. Lastly, this product has glistening feedback which means it is a valuable purchase worth considering.
3. ProCare Squared Toe Post-Op Shoe
The problem with most big walking shoes for the broken foot is that they just shout to everyone that you have a broken foot. Anyone can tell from a few meters away that whatever you have on is a medical contraption. ProCare Squared Toe Post-Op Shoe is a game-changer.
This shoe comes in a minimalistic design that makes it imperceptible to passersby. Additionally, this one keeps weight so low that you would never get fed up of dragging it around. The bigger ones can get really heavy after miles of walking or long hours of standing.
Don’t be fooled by the miniature size of ProCare Squared Toe Post-Op Shoe. It still offers dependable support and comfort for traumatic feet. The securing straps are adjustable so you can get the desired fit. Also, the shoe can fit on either of your feet.
Features
- Rigid rocker sole
- Minimalistic design
- Ankle strap
- Universal design
Pros:
- An ultra-affordable post-operative shoe
- Comfortable design
- Can fit on both feet
- Extra-lightweight compared to bigger versions
- Adjustable fit
- You can drive with it
Cons:
- May not work well for ankle fracture
ProCare Squared Toe Post-Op Shoe is one of the cheapest shoes for broken feet there is. It works better for broken toes and feet. However, those with ankle sprains should look for other ankle-height models in this review.
4. BraceAbility Post-Op Shoe for Broken Foot
After surgery, you are expected to keep the bandage or cast clean. With the taller walker boots, it’s a bit time consuming to get them off and off. However, smaller designs like BraceAbility Post-Op Shoe for Broken Foot are easy to slip in and out.
This post-surgery orthopedic sandal comes with medical grape straps that you can use to customize your fit. On the bottom, there is a traction-rich rocker outsole for walking indoors and other smoothly paved outdoors. The outsole is also designed in a way that offers minimal arch support.
Thanks to the petite construction, BraceAbility Post-Op Shoe for Broken Foot weighs considerably low. This is an attractive feature for men and women who don’t want to walk around with a bulky-looking medical contraption. The padding on this sandal is not of premium levels which is why it is advisable to throw in some sock. Lastly, you can wear it on any feet.
Features
- Orthopedic sandal with a hard sole
- Rocker sole with a non-slip bottom
- Usable on both feet
- Medical grade secure straps( can be trimmed)
- Protective square toe design
Pros:
- A lightweight orthopedic sandal
- Brings relief to a wide variety of feet problems
- Non-slip performance
- Dependable support and stability
- An open style for better breathability
- You can use together with socks or a bandage
Cons:
- Lacks ankle protection
BraceAbility Post-Op Shoe for Broken Foot is another minimalistic pick for those who are looking for orthopedic sandals. The shoe can bring relief to many feet conditions such as stress fractures, Morton’s neuroma, lisfranc fracture, plantar fasciitis, bunions, hammertoes, and other stress fractures.
5. Aircast FP Walker Brace
Here is another best shoe for broken foot recovery particularly designed for pneumatic support, protection, and mobility improvement. Its extensive design promises full recovery as you go about day to day dealings.
Aircast FP Walker Brace is intended for midfoot injuries, fractures, soft tissue injuries, bunions, and severe cases of ankle sprains. Like other orthopedic shoes in this article, this one too can be pretty handy for post-surgery use.
Unlike many models, this walker comes with a low rocker outsole. This design gives you better contact with the ground and helps to strengthen the foot. Additionally, the rigid plastic grips contain your foot against uneven motion resulting in a natural gait.
Aircast FP Walker Brace drops around an air pump for inflating and deflating it. This should allow you to obtain the best, most comfortable fit you want at any time of the day. This walker takes a universal design that fits your left or right foot.
Features
- Low rocker outsole
- Includes a hand air pump
- Universal fit
- Ventilation panels
- Durable foam padding
Pros:
- Helps in recovery of many foot problems
- Allows for better breathability
- You can easily customize the fit
- Can be worn on either of your feet
- Reliable traction and stability
Cons:
- A little pricey
- A bulky design
- Hard to get on and off
Aircast FP Walker Brace is one of the best shoes for broken foot recovery that can handle a wide variety of foot injuries and fractures. With such a low-lying outsole, this walker helps you get the best contact with the ground, strengthen your feet, and recovery quickly.
6. FLA C3 Men’s Post-Op Shoe
Admittedly, BraceAbility Post-Op and ProCare Post-Op shoes come off as truly minimalistic shoes but they still take on an orthopedic look. This can be a bummer for kids and adults who don’t want unnecessary attention to them. If this sounds like you, then FLA C3 Men’s Post-Op Shoe will most assuredly thrill you.
Just by the looks, it’s hard to tell this is a medical device. Its sleek looks make it come off like a sandal for outdoor strolls yet it is equipped with features that relieve foot fractures. Basically, you get securing straps, tongue, and dual soft fabrics that you pull together for a snug fit. The heel section is enclosed and the shoe rises a little to the ankles for some added stability.
FLA C3’s soft fabrics are super gentle which can be a great thing for those with diabetes, arthritis, and other insensitive feet. The synthetic non-skid outsole features Microban bacteria-proof properties so your feet can remain healthy for a long.
Features
- C3 Tri-laminate upper
- Microbe treated outsole
- Adjustable straps
- Removable trim-fit tongue
- Semi-rigid non-skid outsole
- Available in small, medium, large, and extra-large sizes
Pros:
- Very comfortable for tender feet problems
- Completely breathable
- Lightweight performance
- A good-looking minimal design
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Not supportive enough for major foot problems
Even though designed for those with broken foot or toes, FLA C3 Men’s Post-Op Shoe is a double-edged sword. It can offer relief to swollen feet, diabetic feet, lymphoma, and simple surgery. Those with major problems should check out other taller walker options.
7. DMI Cast Post Op Shoe
Yet another sleek post-operative shoe for those who are looking to heal their broken feet and toes without having to walk around in weird-looking kicks. DMI Cast Post Op Shoe is so light and comfortable. You will crunch several miles without feeling weighed down as is common with the bigger models.
The nylon mesh top coupled with the open toe design keeps your feet cool all day long. The Velcro straps can be adjusted to fit you properly while wearing a sock or cast. This property also makes this walker ideal for those with swelling feet.
DMI Cast Post Op Shoe comes with a non-skid outsole for stability and safety on smooth floors. This element of safety is further expanded by the round-toe bumper that prevents possible stumbling and injuring your already troubled foot. You can use this broken foot recovery shoe on any of your feet.
Features
- Open-toe design
- Breathable, Nylon mesh
- Non-skid outsole
- Hand washable
- Padded insole
- Adjustable Velcro straps
Pros:
- Easy on and off
- Ultra-lightweight performance
- Can go on your right or left feet
- You can customize the fit
- Affordable pricing
- Breathable construction
Cons:
- Sizing is off
- Doesn’t offer superior support like
DMI Cast Post Op is for those who are looking for the best shoes for broken foot recovery with a smashing design. This is an inexpensive package with good comfort and support for simpler foot injuries and minor surgeries. Try to order them in a bigger size as they run small.
Things to Consider When Buying Walking Shoes for Broken Foot
If you are recovering from a broken foot, ankle sprain, and other fractures, you should consider shoes with the following features:
Arch support
Your feet need to heal without changing in shape. So try to put on shoes with reliable arch support. You could buy over the counter inserts or get bespoke varieties to boost arch support in shoes without this property.
A wider toe box
You just had a bad injury. An injury that subjected you to time indoors and put many of your activities on hold. To expedite recovery, wear shoes with plenty of room for toe movement. Tight shoes can result in toe deformities like bunions, blisters, and aggravate minor issues like bone spurs and hammertoes. So to be safe, choose shoes with wider toe boxes.
Rearfoot control
Rearfoot control offers support in the back so the toes are not subjected to torture. Without this support, the toes will have to work hard, and do you know what happens when they do? The tendons become aggravated and since they traverse the whole foot, your foot will take longer to heal.
Customizable
It is imperative that the shoe you are buying to be adjustable. This is because the cast thickness can vary or sometimes you can decide to use some socks. With Velcro straps, it is possible to keep adjusting so you get the right fit any day and at any time.
Size and height
As you have already seen, shoes designed for wearing after a broken foot rise close to the knees. A good number of them look and feel chunky as well. While this design serves a medical purpose, on some occasions they tend to feel too heavy. Some people have even complained of hip pains after dragging the walker along for hours.
These ladies and gentlemen mean you should at least try to look for lightweight boots. There are small, minimalistic designs that look nice and can almost match your other shoes. However, they may not be as protective as the bulky versions.
Versatility
One thing is for sure; your feet will recover after a while. And if you are into intense sports, anything can happen and your other foot gets broken too. This is why the best footwear for broken ankle and foot come in a universal design. This allows them to fit on any of your feet. Additionally, they can be easily shared with someone else in need of foot support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
a) Can a broken foot heal on its own?
Some minor injuries can heal without needing the support of casts. However, ankle sprains, toe twists, and broken bones will only heal properly through the aid of casts, braces, and supportive shoes. Only your foot doctor can decide which action should be taken.
b) Should you wear a broken foot recovery shoe all day?
It all depends on what the doctor recommends. For minor sprains, a few breaks can be taken. For serious injuries, you might be expected to wear the corrective shoe all day except during sleeping and showering times.
c) Can you wear ankle braces with shoes for a broken foot?
A good number of shoes for the broken foot can be adjusted to fit any foot. This property means it is possible to wear ankle braces with such shoes. The problem is, some ankle braces are very thick and can make it hard to wear with a shoe. If you need to have both your brace and shoe on, then consider fairly thinner ankle braces.
Wrap up
There are many types of shoes for broken foot recovery that you can buy. Here is our best advice; do not stick to one shoe-you must have several. Most foot doctors recommend having a pair for partial and full support.
If you are taking your dog out at 6 am in the morning for a walk, avoid thin slippers. Get into something comfortable and lightweight like DMI Cast Post Op and FLA C3 Men’s Post-Op Shoes and ensure the strap runs around your ankle. Mornings are pretty cold so it would be okay to put on some thick, supportive socks as well.
When you are inside the house, try not to walk around barefoot-unless when in the shower. So basically, you need to have your tri-lock brace on or any other supportive indoor recovery shoes (crocs can do wonders too).
If you suffered from ankle injuries and other severe conditions that demand full-blast support, then opt for the taller choices. Yes, they may be chunky and heavy but that is exactly how they should be. If you are still confused about what to get, go over our list once again and see what could work for you. We wish you a quick recovery.