Pregnancy is a whole new world for expecting mothers. During this special time, it’s natural to experience a range of physical changes as you grow a new life inside you.

 

Yet you may be so focused on your growing baby that you neglect an important part of prenatal care: foot health. Foot issues are very common for expecting mothers, even if you’ve never had any problems before, and they can negatively impact your overall comfort and stability both during and after pregnancy. 

 

Luckily, Vionic is here to help you choose the best shoes for pregnancy. Read on to learn about features of supportive footwear, proper shoe sizing, and tips and tricks on minimizing discomfort while pregnant. 

 

Why Proper Footwear is Crucial During Pregnancy

Most expecting moms experience foot issues, ranging from mild discomfort to severe foot swelling. Wearing a comfortable shoe not only helps minimize the risk of these problems but also sets your postpartum feet up for success. 

 

Your feet naturally change during pregnancy, so it’s important to get new shoes with adequate support in your correct size. When pregnant, the added weight, swelling, and change in walking patterns can cause discomfort or injury. That said, it’s crucial to balance comfort, support, and stability—after all, you bring your little one along with every step. 

 

The sooner you invest in proper footwear, the better you’ll feel. 

 

Common Foot Issues During Pregnancy and How to Address Them

As your baby grows inside you, the natural weight gain increases pressure and instability in your knees, ankles, and feet. This can lead to a range of conditions, such as:

 

• Flat feet – Overpronation, i.e. flat feet, can occur due to the added pressure on your limbs. The pregnancy hormones that increase pelvic flexibility can also cause ligaments to loosen in the feet, contributing to poor arch support. 

 

• Edema – More commonly known as swelling, edema occurs when the body retains an excess of fluid. During pregnancy, women have around two extra liters of total body water than usual, causing around 80% of expecting moms to develop edema. Swelling can happen anywhere, but fluid buildup is most common in the legs and feet because of gravity. Comfortable shoes with good arch support can help combat additional pain you may experience from the swelling.

 

• Change in gait – While pregnant, you may find yourself hunched over more often as your spine curves to make room for a growing abdomen. This shifts your center of gravity and can change your walking gait, leading to a so-called “waddling gait” à la Daisy Duck. 

 

• Ingrown toenails – The combination of foot swelling and softer tissue while pregnant can cause painful ingrown toenails, with a higher likelihood of redness, irritation, pus, or infection. 

 

• Foot pain – From the heel to the toes, any of these issues, or just the added pressure in general, can cause discomfort or pain. That said, persistent pain—to the extent that you cannot continue your normal lifestyle—is not normal, and you should consult with your doctor. 

 

While these issues are common, there are many at-home remedies that can bring relief in no time. 

 

How to Promote Prenatal Foot Health

The first step is making sure that you’re wearing the correct shoe size. If your feet have flattened or swelled during pregnancy, you should not try to cram them into your current shoes. Squeezing your foot is not only uncomfortable but can make it easier for you to lose your balance, trip and fall, or develop blisters and ingrown toenails. Choosing the best shoes for swollen feet in pregnancy are often one size up from your favorite pair.

 

Plus, there are other everyday solutions to promote foot comfort while pregnant:

 

• Elevate your feet
• Stay hydrated
• Minimize salt intake 
• Take daily walks
• Wear compression socks
• Try orthotic insoles
• Soak feet in warm water

 

Ahh, relief—these tips help reduce swelling, increase support, and relieve foot pain for pregnant women, especially.

 

Key Features to Look for in Pregnancy Shoes

So, you know that you’ll likely have to size up when shoe shopping, but what else sets apart the best shoes to wear for pregnancy? Let’s break it down. 

 

• Arch support – Superior shoe cushioning and good arch support is a must to help with swelling and flat feet. 

 

• Wide width – Opting for a wide size leaves extra room for swollen feet. 

 

• Slip-on – With each trimester, it will be harder to bend down and tie your shoelaces. A slip-on style makes it easier to get ready. 

 

• Low (or no) heel – The last thing you need is to be unsteady on your feet in impractical high heels.

 

• Removable insole – Removable insoles allow you to insert an orthotic insole for added comfort. 

 

• Shock-absorbing foam – With the added weight of pregnancy, it’s especially important for a maternity shoe to absorb shock impact when you walk. This helps protect your joints and ligaments. We love lightweight yet durable EVA material.

 

• Breathable design – To minimize swelling, you’ll need to avoid overheating, sweating, and constriction. Look for shoes with lightweight materials, holes for airflow, moisture-wicking fabrics, and a perforated heel. 

 

The wide range of Vionic footwear boasts these features and more, making it easy to find the perfect pair of shoes for pregnant women. 

 

Top Shoe Recommendations for Expecting Moms

At Vionic, our footwear is powered by VIO MOTION TechnologyTM, making them some of the best supportive shoes for pregnancy. This exclusive bio-mechanical formula is designed for all-day comfort, so you can spend more time enjoying your pregnancy to its fullest. Let’s highlight a few of our top recommendations for supportive shoes. 

 

Stylish Sneakers

As a pregnant woman, staying active is beneficial to both you and your baby’s health. You don’t need a gym membership—getting your steps in on daily walks is a great form of exercise, and also promotes circulation and minimizes swelling. 

 

Get your sweat on with our collection of walking sneakers, durable and comfy for an on-the-go lifestyle:

 

1. We love the Walk Max Lace Up Sneaker II, a super supportive, cushioned, and lightweight athletic shoe. Featuring a lightweight midsole rebound technology to enhance your walking motion, this sneaker goes the distance.

 

1. If you’re still able to tie your own laces (or your partner can help!), check out the Walk Max Lace Up Sneaker, available in eight fun colors. Once you feel their unbeatable orthotic comfort, you’ll see why they’re one of the best walking shoes for pregnancy.

 

1. The Walk Strider Sneaker is a classic option, whether you’re hitting the walking trails or running to the grocery store. Its flexible mesh allows for effortless slip ons and its durable rubber sole provides reliable traction and stability on various surfaces.

 

Recovery Shoes

Our women’s recovery shoes feature an added level of support, cushioning, and stability, all in chic designs you’d never know were orthopedic. 

 

1. For a more affordable option, check out the Rejuvenate Recovery Sandal, available in nine vibrant colors and featuring adjustable straps, textured footbeds, and enhanced cushioning.

 

1. If you’re seeking stability, there is the Activate Recovery Sandal, which features ankle and toe straps for a secure and adjustable fit—particularly if your feet begin to swell during pregnancy. They’re available in medium and wide options, too, to fit your changing feet. 

 

Casual Kicks

Easy to dress up or down, every wardrobe needs versatile, casual options. Whether you’re still heading into the office or meeting friends for lunch, these casual sneakers keep up with your busy lifestyle. 

 

1. For a more elevated vibe, try the Uptown Loafer, featuring a contoured flexible outsole, deep heel cup, and removable EVA insole. 

 

1. The Kimmie Court Sneaker provides style and comfort with pops of color and built-in arch support.

 

1. For a classic style that fits any pregnancy fit, there is the Beach Pismo Casual Sneaker in canvas. It’s available in a variety of colors, from classic white to vibrant red and is crafted from eco-friendly, washable materials. 

 

1. A casual lace-up design, the Winny Sneaker in leather has a sturdy construction and rubber sole design to make your everyday even more comfortable. 

 

How to Ensure the Perfect Fit for Maximum Comfort

When shopping for new shoes while pregnant, it’s easy to be misled by your typical shoe size. However, your feet may be flatter, longer, or wider, with different changes varying between moms. 

 

How do you find the right fit as a pregnant woman? Feel between your longest toe and the edge of the shoe. Podiatry experts recommend that there be a thumb’s width of space. This applies for postpartum shoe shopping as well, as your feet will likely hold onto the changes they underwent during pregnancy.

 

Tips for Maintaining Your Shoes Throughout Pregnancy

Once you’ve found the perfect pair, you want to make sure they last your whole pregnancy—and ideally after your little one is born as well. Here are some ways to extend the lifespan of your shoes while promoting optimal foot health. 

 

• Rotate pairs – Rather than wear one pair into the ground, switch it up between a few comfy options. 

 

• Stay dry – Wet or damp shoes are a recipe for blisters and other irritation. In addition to rain, this applies to natural moisture as well—if your swollen feet sweat more than usual, make sure to air out your shoes and insoles between wears.

 

• Add insoles – Orthotic inserts, like our active and relief insoles, help protect your feet from the unique demands of pregnancy.

 

With the right shoes, you’re ready to take pregnancy in stride!

 

Stay Healthy and Comfortable During Pregnancy with Vionic

Foot health is a key part of prenatal care, and pregnancy-friendly shoes are the best place to start. Browse our collection of women’s shoes to revitalize every step and stay supported on this special journey. 

 

As an expecting mother, don’t let foot pain get in the way of everyday magical moments. From walking sneakers to recovery sandals, we have comfortable options for any occasion, so you can give your feet the TLC they deserve while still dressing in style.  

 

 

Sources: 

 

Michigan Medicine. 6 things to know about your feet during pregnancy. https://www.michiganmedicine.org/health-lab/6-things-know-about-your-feet-during-pregnancy. 

 

Greater Washington Advanced Podiatry. Managing Your Foot Pain While Pregnant. https://www.gwapodiatry.com/blog/pregnancy-and-foot-pain.cfm. 

 

National Library of Medicine. Edema in Pregnancy. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9185112/.