Best Shoes For Bad Hips – Top Picks & Guide

Does a simple walk feel like a major challenge because of hip pain? You are not alone. Many people struggle with discomfort that makes choosing the right footwear feel impossible. Finding shoes that support your hips should not add more stress to your day.

When your hips hurt, every step matters. Most shoe stores don’t focus on orthopedic needs, leaving you with stiff, unsupportive options. This often leads to more aches and limits how much you can move. It’s frustrating when the wrong shoes make simple activities painful.

This guide cuts through the confusion. We will show you exactly what features to look for in a shoe to ease hip pain and boost your comfort. You will learn about cushioning, arch support, and the best styles for stability.

Keep reading to discover the best shoes that will get you back on your feet comfortably and confidently.

Top Shoes For Bad Hips Recommendations

No. 1
Brooks Women’s Glycerin 22 Neutral Running Shoe - Coconut/Chateau/Rose - 8.5 Medium
  • THIS WOMEN'S SHOE IS FOR: Prepare for smooth transitions with the Glycerin 22, featuring DNA Tuned, the latest midsole technology that seamlessly blends and integrates dual-size cells, ensuring a balance of luxurious cushioning and energetic toe-offs. This Glycerin 22 is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance. Predecessor: Glycerin 21.
  • NEUTRAL SUPPORT: Provides neutral support while offering the maximum amount of cushioning. Ideal for road running, cross training, the gym, or wherever you might want to take them! Predecessor: Glycerin 21. Look for the Brooks Glycerin GTS 22 for the same style with added support.
  • DNA TUNED CUSHION: Cutting-edge cushion technology with larger cells in the heel to provide soft, plush landings, while smaller cells in the forefoot invite responsive toe-offs.
  • ACCOMMODATING FIT: The newly engineered double jacquard knit upper delivers a flexible and accommodating fit, combining durability with exceptional breathability.
  • SMOOTH, STABLE TRANSITIONS: The broad platform stabilizes your foot while the tuned heel and forefoot smooth heel-to-toe transitions.
No. 2
JACKSHIBO Wide Toe Box Shoes Women Arch Support Wide Sneakers for Running Walking Athletic Tennis Orthopedic Plantar Fasciitis Workout with Thick Cushion Zero Drop Sole Width Shoes Rose Red
  • Wide Toe Box: Zero Drop Platform for Natural Stride. Zero toe compression in 8-hour wear! 20% wider forefoot reduces pressure by 63%, while 0mm heel-to-toe drop cuts 42% knee impact. Anatomical design mimics barefoot freedom, restoring natural gait mechanics. Ideal for prolonged standing/walking—let your toes breathe and joints thrive.
  • Thickening Cushioned Midsole: Roller Propulsion Tech for Effortless Comfort. 1.57" foam midsole absorbs 40% joint stress, paired with 15°toe rocker saving 17% leg effort. Patented roller tech mimics energy return, turning commutes into cloud-like glides. Walk 5km with 58% less knee strain—hardcore cushion meets smart propulsion.
  • 3D Arch Support for All-Day Endurance: 135% arch coverage disperses 72% plantar tension. Tri-support structure improves flat foot balance by 27% and relieves high arch by 33%. Walk 20,000 steps daily with fatigue-defying stability—your arches deserve this smart cradle.
  • Embedded midsole: Safety Redefined. 10% lower heel slippage! Racecar-inspired design passes 15°incline tests. EVA frame locks heels during sharp turns/stops. Built for adventurers—dynamic support meets all-terrain security.
  • Occasion: JACKSHIBO wide toe box shoes are very suitable for trail, trainer, golf, road running, athletic, tennis, gym, fitness, jogging, casual, workout, cross training, daily wear.
No. 3
Ryka Women's Devotion X Max Classic Walking Shoes Yellow Oak 8.5 W
  • Womens lace up sneaker best for high-performance fitness walking, APMA APPROVED: Awarded the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance for products that promote good foot health.
  • PERFORMANCE TESTED: Proven in lab testing to provide low deceleration, braking, and impact forces + Very high perceived cushioning, INNOVATIVE TECH: Full-length RE-ZORB responsive cushioning for shock absorption + impact protection, plus lightweight RE-ZORB LITE pads in the forefoot and heel
  • MATERIALS: Retro-inspired styling with breathable air mesh + Leather and synthetic overlays + Padded tongue and heel collar, CLOSURE: Secure lace-up front
  • INSOLE: Anatomical heel with extra arch support + heel support and partially recycled EVA, MIDSOLE: Lightweight EVA for soft cushioning + Full-length RE-ZORB responsive cushioning
  • OUTSOLE: Durable two-piece rubber sole for grip + Built-in compression channels for shock absorption, WEIGHT: 278 g/9.8 oz per shoe
No. 4
Brooks Women’s Launch 11 Neutral Running Shoe - Sherbert/Coconut/Pink - 9 Medium
  • THIS WOMEN’S SHOE IS FOR: The Launch 11 running shoe features DNA FLASH foam underfoot for quick energy returns, while the breathable, lightweight upper provides a distraction-free experience for a faster feel with responsive cushioning. Ideal for all types of workouts, road runs, and even races. Predecessor: Launch 10.
  • RESPONSIVE CUSHION FOR EVERYDAY RUNNING: Nitrogen-infused DNA FLASH midsole paired with DNA FLASH v2 forefoot creates a responsive experience that propels your stride with exceptional energy return and agility.
  • QUICK, SMOOTH TRANSITIONS: The updated RoadTack Rubber outsole delivers enhanced traction precisely where it is crucial, facilitating rapid forward turnover.
  • SOFT, LIGHTWEIGHT CUSHIONING: Lightweight DNA FLASH foam cushioning is soft and extra responsive with DNA FLASH v2 in the forefoot for an energizing ride that adapts every runner’s unique stride.
  • BREATHABLE, SECURE FIT: The mesh upper keeps your foot securely locked in place while remaining highly breathable to help eliminate distractions and enhance overall comfort.
No. 5
AOV Women Arch Support Walking Shoes Orthotic Sneakers for Plantar Fasciitis Foot and Heel Pain Relief Tennis Shoes, Size 9 PinkBlue
  • Friendly Reminder: Please buy shoes half a size larger when you have wide feet or fat feet. Example: You usually wear US 7, please buy US 7.5 directly. You will get more space for your feet. The lace-up design is easy to put on and take off, and the shoe width can be adjusted freely. After receiving the shoes, it is recommended to widen the laces to make the instep more comfortable.
  • Arch Support Shoes for Women: Arch support technology is used to increase arch support and heel stability. The upgraded sole provides comfortable cushioning for sore heels, allowing you to reduce foot fatigue throughout the walk. They are comfortable and great for long standing workers.
  • Foot Pain Relief: AOV orthotic inserts for women offer a superb level of 3 cm high arch supports. Deep heel cup can align your body in the middle place. They can relieve foot pain caused by long time standing, flat feet, heel spur, foot valgus, over pronation, plantar fasciitis, fallen arch, bunions, arthritis, achilles tendonitis and also ball of foot pain.
  • Non Slip Shoes for Women: Non slip rubber outsole with a distinct pattern that provides traction and stability on all surfaces and terrains. The lightweight sole provides you with good grip and makes you lighter when walking. We have tested the folding resistance for 10,0000 times, and the soles and uppers have reached the test standards.
  • Fit Your Shoes: With these comfortable orthotic shoes, your feet will feel relaxed and comfortable. Our insole features a unique arch support design that prevents plantar fasciitis, relieves pain and keeps your feet comfortable all day long.
No. 6
HOBIBEAR Barefoot Shoes for Women Men Zero Drop Sole Walking Sneakers Grey Brown, 10 Wide Women/9 Wide Men
  • Minimalist Design for Natural Movement: Designed with a zero-drop sole, these barefoot shoes offer a flat, lightweight base that supports your foot's natural position, promoting better posture and balance
  • Wide Toe Box for Comfort: Enjoy a spacious toe box that allows your toes to spread naturally, reducing discomfort and improving overall foot health, ideal for all-day wear
  • Durable & Flexible Sole: The flexible rubber sole provides exceptional grip and traction, perfect for outdoor activities like walking, running, and everyday use in varied terrains
  • Breathable & Lightweight Construction: The breathable fabric and lightweight build ensure comfort, reducing foot fatigue and allowing air circulation for a fresher feel
  • Versatile & Stylish: Designed to fit both men and women, these barefoot shoes transition seamlessly from outdoor adventures to casual outings, combining style and functionality
No. 7
Grand Attack Barefoot Shoes Women Wide Toe Box Zero Drop Wrestling Weightlifting Gym Fitness Shoes Breathable Lightweight Light Grey Size 9-9.5
  • [Good For Your Health]:Completely flat (zero drop)- low to the ground design for balance and agility.Zero drop shoes will give you a natural feel,disperse impact better and reduce injuries,let the feet walking, running, jumping, and moving in accordance with their instincts,which good for you health.
  • [Wide Toe Design]:Women‘s barefoot shoes have a wider toe design. Natural foot design provides ample space for toes a more active fit compared to regular sneakers.
  • [Non-Slip & Durable]:High-quality rubber outsole rubber outsoles offer the optimal balance of traction and durability, with a responsive feel on unpredictable terrain.circular lug patterns provide grip during movement
  • [Flexible Test ]:Our testers put these women's Cross-Trainers through 80,000 consecutive 180° bends and 360° rotations and found that they were still stable.This pair of Fitness Shoes is Flexible & Durable,Thanks to the use of high-density rubber soles and one-piece molding process
  • [BEST CHOICE]--If you love boxing,running,weightlifting,aerobics, hiking,walking,wrestling,jogging and any other cross training programs,then these barefoot shoes will be a great choice.
No. 8
Skechers Women's Max Cushioning Endeavour Canova Sneaker, White/Black, 7
  • MAXIMUM CUSHIONING TECHNOLOGY: Experience superior comfort with max cushioning for women design featuring Air-Cooled Goga Mat insole and Ultra Light midsole cushioning
  • ENGINEERED FOR PERFORMANCE: These max cushioning women shoes provide exceptional support with Natural Rocker Technology for smooth heel-to-toe transitions
  • BREATHABLE COMFORT: Engineered mesh upper with synthetic overlays ensures ventilation while providing structured support for these max cushioning shoes for women
  • EASY CARE DESIGN: Machine washable construction keeps your athletic shoes looking fresh with minimal effort
  • VEGAN FRIENDLY: Crafted with 100% vegan materials, featuring a flexible traction outsole and medium width for versatile wear

Finding the Perfect Fit: Your Guide to Shoes for Bad Hips

When your hips hurt, every step matters. The right shoes can make a huge difference. They support your body and reduce strain. This guide helps you choose the best footwear for comfort and stability.

Key Features to Look For

Good shoes for bad hips share a few important traits. These features help absorb shock and keep your alignment correct.

Excellent Cushioning
  • Thick Midsoles: Look for shoes with thick, soft material between the sole and the insole. This material absorbs the impact when your foot hits the ground. It lessens the shock traveling up to your hips.
  • Heel Padding: Extra cushioning in the heel area is crucial. Most of your weight lands here first.
Proper Support and Stability
  • Arch Support: Your foot’s arch needs support. Good support keeps your foot from rolling too far inward (pronation) or outward (supination). This keeps your legs and hips lined up correctly.
  • Firm Heel Counter: The back part of the shoe that cups your heel should be firm. This locks your heel in place and prevents wobbling.
Rocker Bottom Design

Some shoes feature a curved sole, often called a rocker bottom. This design helps your foot roll naturally from heel strike to toe-off. This smooth motion reduces the effort your hip muscles need to work during walking.

Important Materials Matter

The materials used in the shoe construction greatly affect comfort and durability.

Outsole Materials
  • Durable Rubber: A good rubber outsole provides excellent traction and resists wear. Avoid very hard, inflexible plastic soles.
Midsole Materials
  • EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate): This foam is lightweight and offers great shock absorption.
  • Polyurethane (PU): PU is denser and lasts longer than EVA, offering consistent support over time.
Upper Materials

Choose soft, breathable materials for the top part of the shoe. Mesh or soft leather allows your foot to move without rubbing or pinching, which is important if you have wider feet or foot swelling.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Shoe Quality

Not all supportive shoes are created equal. Pay attention to how the shoe is built.

What Improves Quality:
  • Removable Insoles: High-quality shoes let you take out the factory insole. This lets you replace it with custom orthotics if your doctor suggests them.
  • Wide Toe Box: A wide front area lets your toes spread out naturally. This improves balance and reduces pressure on the ball of your foot.
What Reduces Quality (Things to Avoid):
  • Flat, Thin Soles: Shoes like ballet flats or very thin dress shoes offer no shock absorption. They put direct stress on your hips.
  • High Heels: Heels tilt your body forward, forcing your lower back and hips to overcompensate. Keep heels low—ideally less than one inch.
  • Stiff, Unbending Shoes: If you cannot bend the shoe slightly in the middle (where your foot bends), the shoe forces unnatural movement, which strains the hip joint.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about when and where you will wear these shoes.

Daily Walking and Errands

For everyday use, prioritize maximum cushioning and a secure fit. Walking shoes or supportive athletic sneakers are usually the best choice. They handle varied surfaces well.

Standing for Long Periods

If you stand a lot, stability becomes key. Look for shoes with a wider base, meaning the bottom of the shoe is wider than the top. This prevents ankle rolling and keeps your foundation steady.

Recovery and Low Impact Exercise

For activities like gentle stretching or water aerobics, a supportive sandal or cross-trainer might work. Ensure any sandal has a deep heel cup and strong arch support; avoid flip-flops entirely.


10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Shoes for Bad Hips

Q: Do I need special orthopedic shoes?

A: Not always. Many major athletic shoe brands make excellent shoes with the right support features. A specialist can recommend true orthopedic shoes if needed.

Q: How much should I spend on good shoes?

A: Quality support usually costs more. Expect to spend between $100 and $180 for a pair of durable, well-cushioned walking or running shoes designed for stability.

Q: When should I replace my supportive shoes?

A: Replace them when the cushioning feels flat or the tread wears down unevenly. For daily wearers, this is often every 6 to 9 months.

Q: Can shoes help with hip arthritis pain?

A: Yes. By absorbing shock and promoting better body alignment, supportive shoes reduce the painful impact on arthritic hip joints.

Q: Are memory foam insoles good for bad hips?

A: Memory foam feels soft initially, but it can break down quickly. Look for firmer EVA or PU foam for long-term support rather than soft memory foam alone.

Q: Should the shoe feel tight or loose?

A: The shoe should feel secure but not tight. You need about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe.

Q: Do slip-on shoes work for hip pain?

A: Only if they have a very rigid heel counter and good arch support. Many slip-ons lack the necessary stability for proper gait mechanics.

Q: What is the best heel height?

A: The best heel height is zero or very low (under one inch). Flatter is generally safer for hip alignment.

Q: Can I wear my old running shoes?

A: If your old running shoes are worn out, they are actively hurting your hips. Replace them immediately with supportive footwear.

Q: Should I try shoes on at the end of the day?

A: Yes. Your feet swell throughout the day. Trying shoes on in the late afternoon ensures they fit comfortably even when your feet are at their largest.

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