Diabetic Footwear Market - By Product (Shoes, Slippers, Sneakers, Sandals, Socks), By Foot Condition (Neuropathy, Ulcers, Deformities), By Distribution Channel (Supermarkets & Hypermarkets, Pharmacy Stores, Online Stores), By End-use, & Forecast, 2024 – 2032

Diabetic Footwear Market Size

Diabetic Footwear Market was valued at around 7.2 billion in 2023 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 6.5% between 2024 and 2032. This market revenue is attributable to the several factors comprising the development of advanced materials and manufacturing techniques that has improved the quality and functionality of diabetic footwear. Companies are incorporating features such as cushioning, moisture-wicking properties, seamless interiors, and adjustable closures to enhance comfort & reduce the risk of foot complications. Diabetic footwear manufacturers are increasingly focusing on customization and personalization to cater to individual foot conditions. This includes offering various width and depth options, as well as accommodating orthotic inserts and modifications to meet specific patient needs.
 

Similarly, companies in the diabetic footwear market are collaborating with podiatrists and other healthcare professionals to gain insights into patient needs and to ensure that their products meet medical standards. Such collaborations help in developing effective footwear solutions and establishing credibility within the healthcare community. As a result, technological advancements, customization & personalization, and collaboration with healthcare professionals is augmenting the market revenue.

Diabetic footwear refers to specially designed shoes and footwear accessories that are created to provide optimal comfort, support, and protection for individuals with diabetes. People with diabetes are prone to foot-related complications, such as poor circulation, nerve damage, and foot ulcers, that can lead to serious health issues. Diabetic footwear aims to reduce these risks by incorporating features that promote foot health and minimize the occurrence of foot problems.
 

However, high cost associated with diabetic footwear may obstruct the segment revenue. The price range for diabetic footwear can vary depending on various factors such as the brand, quality, style, and additional features. On average, diabetic footwear typically ranges from USD 50 to USD 200 or more. On average, diabetic shoes can range from around USD 80 to USD 200 or more per pair. Similarly, some specialty diabetic footwear, such as custom-made shoes or those with advanced features, may cost more. These costs highlight that diabetic footwear can be more expensive compared to regular shoes. This is attributable to the regulatory compliance, specialized designs, and customization among others. Thus, high cost associated with diabetic footwear may hinder the business growth.
 

COVID-19 Impact

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a negative impact on the diabetic footwear market. The global supply chain faced disruptions due to lockdown measures, restrictions on transportation, and factory closures. This resulted in a shortage of raw materials and delayed production and delivery of diabetic footwear.  The economic downturn caused by the pandemic led to reduced purchasing power and changed consumer priorities. As a result, the demand for non-essential items including diabetic footwear experienced a decline. Many companies in the diabetic footwear market had to postpone their planned product launches and innovations due to the uncertainties and challenges posed by the pandemic. This impacted the introduction of new and advanced products into the market.
 

Hoverer, the pandemic has raised awareness about the importance of personal health and well-being. This heightened awareness led to increased recognition of the need for specialized footwear among individuals with diabetes. Individuals with diabetes became more conscious of their foot health with people spending more time at home & prioritizing self-care. This boosted the demand for diabetic footwear as a preventive measure against foot complications. The pandemic also accelerated the shift towards online shopping. This has opened up new avenues for diabetic footwear companies to reach customers directly through e-commerce platforms, potentially expanding their customer base. Overall, while there are positive factors comprising increased awareness & e-commerce growth, the negative impacts such as the economic downturn & disruption in the supply chain had affected the diabetic footwear industry.

Diabetic Footwear Market Trends

Technological advancements in diabetic footwear intended to improve the comfort, safety, and overall well-being of individuals with diabetes will spur the business expansion. Advanced 3D scanning and modelling technologies are allowing the creation of customized diabetic footwear. These technologies capture the precise measurements and contours of an individual's feet, resulting in shoes that provide an optimal fit, reduce friction, and minimize the potential for rubbing or chafing. Diabetic shoes now utilize breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics that help manage foot perspiration and maintain a dry environment. These materials reduce the risk of fungal infections and promote foot hygiene. Some diabetic footwear incorporates technology to regulate foot temperature. This feature helps keep the feet at a comfortable and stable temperature, reducing the risk of complications associated with extreme temperatures, such as frostbite or burns. Overall, these technological advancements provide significant benefits, proper foot care, and regular monitoring among others.
 

Diabetic Footwear Market Analysis

Based on product, the diabetic footwear market is segmented as shoes, slippers, sneakers, sandals, and socks. The shoes segment held the dominant market share in 2022 and was valued at over USD 2.3 billion. This dominant market share is attributable to the growing diabetic population, increasing awareness, and the advent of innovative features among others. The rising prevalence of diabetes globally is a significant driver for the growth of the diabetic shoes segment.
 

As per the International Diabetes Federation, in 2021, around 537 million adults were living with diabetes across the world. The demand for specialized footwear that offers comfort and protection will increase significantly as more people are diagnosed with diabetes. There is a growing awareness among diabetic patients about the importance of diabetes care devices to prevent complications such as foot ulcers and neuropathy. This awareness has resulted in a higher demand for diabetic shoes that are specifically designed to provide proper support and reduce the risk of injuries. Additionally, the diabetic shoes segment has witnessed technological advancements along with innovative features comprising cushioning, breathable materials, and moisture-wicking properties among others.
 

Based on foot condition, the market is segmented as neuropathy, ulcers, and deformities. The neuropathy segment accounted for a dominant diabetic footwear market share in 2022 and was valued at over USD 3.3 billion. This high segmental revenue share is owing to the diabetic footwear that can provide several advantages in treating neuropathy, that is a common complication of diabetes. Neuropathy can cause a loss of sensation in the feet, making it difficult for individuals to detect injuries or irritations.
 

Diabetic footwear often includes protective elements such as a wider toe box, seamless interior, and soft padding to minimize the risk of skin breakdown, blisters, or abrasions. These wearable medical devices create a barrier between the foot and potential sources of friction or trauma. Nerve damage from neuropathy can affect the muscles and joints of the feet, leading to instability and balance issues. Diabetic footwear typically incorporates features including firm heel counters, supportive midsoles, and adjustable closures to provide stability & promote proper alignment. This can help reduce the risk of falls and related injuries. Hence, several benefits provided by diabetic footwear in neuropathy treatment will spur the business growth.
 

Based on distribution channel, the market is segmented as supermarkets & hypermarkets, pharmacy stores, online stores, and others. The online stores segment held a considerable market share in 2022 and was valued at around USD 1.9 billion. The rise of e-commerce platforms and online retail has had a significant impact on the diabetic footwear market. It has made it easier for individuals to access a wider range of options and make purchases conveniently from the comfort of their homes. Online platforms also provide detailed product information, customer reviews, and size guides to help customers make informed decisions. This data helps customers make informed decisions that are suitable as per their condition and preferences.
 

Moreover, online stores provide more competitive pricing for diabetic footwear as online retailers often have lower overhead costs compared to physical stores. Owing to this, customer may find better deals & discounts online, enabling them to save money on their purchases. As a result, numerous advantages associated with the online stores will upsurge the industry growth.
 

Based on end-use, the diabetic footwear market is segmented as men, women, and kids. The men segment is projected to reach more than USD 7.2 billion by the end of 2032. The preference for diabetic footwear in the male population has been increasing over the years due to several factors. Men with diabetes are more prone to foot complications such as neuropathy, poor circulation, and increased risk of diabetic ulcers. Diabetic footwear is specifically designed to address these issues by providing proper support, cushioning, and minimizing pressure points, reducing the risk of developing foot problems.

Diabetic footwear typically features soft, seamless interiors to prevent friction and irritation, that can lead to blisters & sores. They also have wider and deeper toe boxes to accommodate any deformities or swelling. These features contribute to overall comfort and protection for men with diabetes. Diabetic shoes are designed to distribute body weight evenly across the feet, that helps alleviate pressure on specific areas. This feature is crucial for individuals with foot deformities, ulcers, or other conditions that require offloading pressure from certain areas. As a result, comfort, injury prevention, and expansion in design choices among others has augmented the segment growth.
 

U.S. dominated the North America diabetic footwear market with a significant market share in 2022 and is anticipated to expand at a considerable pace to reach around USD 4.6 billion by 2032. The U.S. market for diabetic footwear has been experiencing steady growth in recent years, primarily driven by factors such as the increasing prevalence of diabetes, a growing geriatric population, and rising awareness about the importance of foot care among diabetic individuals. The U.S. has a high prevalence of diabetes, with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes being significant health concerns.
 

For instance, as per the Diabetes Research Institute report 2022, around 37 million people were suffering with diabetes in the U.S. The demand for specialized diabetic footwear is expected to rise as the number of people living with diabetes continues to upsurge. The aging population in the U.S. is a major driver for the diabetic footwear market. Older individuals are more expected to develop diabetes & associated foot-related complications, such as neuropathy and poor circulation. As a result, they require proper footwear to prevent injuries and ulcers.
 

Diabetic Footwear Market Share

Some of the major market players operating in the diabetic footwear market are

• Aetrex Worldwide
• Apex Foot Health Industries, LLC
• DJO Global Inc.
• Dr. Comfort
• Dr. Zen Products Inc.
• Drew Shoe Corporation
• Finn Comfort

Major market players are adopting strategic formulations such as forward integration, new product development, geographical expansion, and research collaborations to garner maximum industry share and promote company growth.
 

Diabetic Footwear Industry News:

• In June 2021, Aetrex introduced advanced Albert 3DFit, 3D Foot Scanning Technology. This technology enhanced the profitability through data collection & provided 3D fit technology accessibility to stores of all sizes. This scanner can calculate customers’ 3D foot measurements in less than 10 seconds with accuracy up to 1 millimeter. It features Aetrex’s FitGenius AI platform, that matches customers’ unique foot profiles with their ideal footwear styles and sizes. This launch augmented the company’s diabetic footwear portfolio.
   
• In August 2020, Apex Foot Health Industries, an OHI company, announced the launch of its product, Copper Cloud diabetic socks. Copper Cloud socks offer the most comfort and protection. Ideal for helping protect against diabetic ulcers, Copper Cloud socks are designed to promote dry, odor-free feet while delivering ultra-comfort. This product launch assisted the company in improving its diabetic footwear product portfolio.
   

Diabetic footwear market research report includes an in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue in USD (million) and volume (Units) from 2018 to 2032 for the following segments:

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By Product

• Shoes
• Slippers
• Sneakers
• Sandals
• Socks

By Foot Condition

• Neuropathy
• Ulcers
• Deformities

By Distribution Channel

• Supermarkets & Hypermarkets
• Pharmacy Stores
• Online Stores
• Others

By End-use

• Men
• Women
• Kids

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Poland
  • Switzerland
  • The Netherlands
• Asia Pacific
  • Japan
  • China
  • India
  • Australia
  • South Korea
  • Indonesia
  • Philippines
  • Vietnam
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
  • Chile
  • Colombia
  • Peru
• Middle East & Africa
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • Israel
  • Iran
  • Turkey