The Ideal Hardness of Sole for Diabetic Feet

The midsole of a shoe is more than just a layer between your feet and the ground; it's the key to comfort, support, and even foot health. One of the most important aspects of a midsole is its hardness, also called durometer. Midsole hardness determines how well a shoe cushions your steps, distributes pressure, and supports your feet. For people dealing with foot conditions like plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, or diabetes-related foot issues, getting the right midsole hardness can make all the difference.

What is Midsole Hardness?

Midsole hardness is measured using the Shore hardness scale, ranging from soft materials like foam to firmer ones like dense rubber. Softer midsoles absorb shock better and cushion your feet by deforming slightly under pressure. On the other hand, harder midsoles provide extra stability and support by resisting compression. Finding the right balance between these two extremes is essential for both comfort and functionality.

Why Does It Matter?

The right midsole hardness can influence how pressure is distributed across your foot. Studies have shown that midsoles with moderate softness can reduce peak pressure on sensitive areas, such as the heel or forefoot, by spreading the force more evenly (Pui-Kong et al., 2022). [1] For instance, a basketball study revealed that midsoles with a Shore C hardness of 50 significantly reduced peak pressure in the forefoot during high-impact activities compared to harder midsoles at 60 Shore C.

Too soft a midsole can lead to instability, as your foot might sink too much, causing excessive movement within the shoe. On the flip side, overly hard midsoles fail to absorb impact forces, potentially increasing the stress on joints and muscles.

Benefits for Foot Conditions

Plantar Fasciitis

For those with plantar fasciitis, excessive strain on the plantar fascia (a ligament that supports your arch) can cause pain and inflammation. Studies using computer simulations found that midsoles with moderate hardness (about 40–50 Shore A) reduced strain on the plantar fascia significantly (Li et al., 2023). [2]

Metatarsalgia

This condition involves pain in the ball of the foot, often caused by high pressure in that area. Softer midsoles can help distribute this pressure more evenly, relieving discomfort during walking or running.

Diabetic Foot

People with diabetes often experience reduced sensation in their feet, increasing the risk of pressure-related ulcers. Research on diabetic footwear suggests midsoles that are neither too soft nor too hard can effectively lower pressure hotspots, reducing the risk of ulcers (Meier et al., 2022). [3]

FitVille's Advanced 58° EVA: Engineered for Diabetic Feet

FitVille takes this science a step further with its 58° Advanced EVA midsole, specifically tailored for diabetic feet. This revolutionary material balances flexibility and support to ensure maximum comfort and safety for individuals managing diabetes.

Why 58° Advanced EVA?

FitVille's unique 58° Advanced EVA stands out for its innovative composition:

• 15% Lighter: Using an advanced compression-molding process, FitVille makes this material 15% lighter than traditional EVA, reducing fatigue during extended wear.
• Dynamic Vulcanization: This technique ensures the material is soft enough to absorb shock yet firm enough to provide stability, hitting the sweet spot on the Shore Hardness scale.
• Perfect for Diabetic Feet: Its placement in the mid-range of hardness ensures it reduces pressure hotspots and prevents instability, making it safe and effective for people managing diabetic symptoms.

Tri-Grip Enhanced Rubber: Superior Stability

Another hallmark of FitVille's diabetic shoes is the Tri-Grip Enhanced Rubber outsole, which offers exceptional grip and traction. Its unique tread pattern and foot palm molding technology replicate the natural contours of the human foot. Advanced simulations and 3D modeling pinpointed critical pressure points, allowing the design to optimize grip and stability on various surfaces. This technology ensures confident, secure steps, even in challenging conditions.

A Full-Body Support System: More than Just Soles

All FitVille diabetic boots go beyond just their innovative soles. They feature up to 4E extra wide toe boxes and seamless linings, making them ideal for protecting the most sensitive feet, even for individuals with neuropathy. The combination of the ideal 58° hardness sole technology and a firm heel counter aligns the gait for better stability and distributes pressure evenly. This reduces fatigue and alleviates foot pain, offering a sensation akin to walking on clouds.

The thoughtful design also ensures no break-in time is required, so you can enjoy unparalleled comfort and support straight out of the box.

Recommended FitVille Diabetic Winter Shoes

FitVille Men's EasyTop Diabetic Winter Boots V3

• Special Features: A fur-lined adjustable collar ensures warmth, while the roomy 4E width and high instep provide ample space for swollen feet. The 58° Advanced EVA midsole delivers tailored cushioning to alleviate diabetic pain.
• Best For: Daily winter wear with superior slip resistance and a cozy velvet insole for added comfort.

FitVille Women's EasyTop Diabetic Winter Boots V3

• Special Features: With a plush, fur-lined interior and adjustable strap, these boots offer a snug yet flexible fit. Their lightweight design ensures effortless mobility while providing the support diabetic feet need.
• Best For: Women seeking warm, supportive footwear for winter with a fashionable touch.

FitVille Men's EasyTop Diabetic Winter Boots V2

• Special Features: These boots feature an adjustable strap that ensures a snug fit from the instep to the heel. The high-top design adds warmth and ankle support, making them ideal for colder climates.
• Best For: Men looking for secure, warm winter boots with enhanced ankle support.

FitVille Women's EasyTop Diabetic Winter Boots V2

• Special Features: A fully open upper with an adjustable strap makes these boots easy to wear for individuals with swollen feet or high insteps. The fur-lined interior and plush velvet insole provide all-day comfort.
• Best For: Women who need easy-to-wear, stylish boots that accommodate sensitive feet.

FitVille Men's EasyTop Diabetic Winter Boots V1

• Special Features: A lightweight EVA midsole and slip-resistant rubber outsole ensure comfortable, secure steps. The wide toe box allows toes to spread naturally, reducing discomfort for diabetic patients.
• Best For: Men needing a simple yet effective winter boot for everyday wear.

FitVille Women's EasyTop Diabetic Winter Boots V1

• Special Features: Featuring faux cashmere uppers and a plush fur-lined interior, these boots combine warmth with diabetic-friendly support. The adjustable strap ensures ease of wear for those with high insteps.
• Best For: Women prioritizing comfort and warmth without compromising style.

Final Thoughts

FitVille's diabetic footwear combines cutting-edge technology with thoughtful design to meet the unique needs of diabetic feet. The 58° Advanced EVA midsole, Tri-Grip Enhanced Rubber outsole, 4E wide toe boxes, and seamless linings create the perfect storm of cushioning, stability, and protection. The addition of a firm heel counter further aligns your gait and distributes pressure evenly, reducing fatigue and pain. With no break-in time required, these boots offer instant comfort and support, making them a trusted choice for winter footwear.

References

Pui-Kong, Y., et al. (2022). Influence of shoe midsole hardness on plantar pressure distribution in basketball-related movements. ResearchGate. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/310627614_Influence_of_shoe_midsole_hardness_on_plantar_pressure_distribution.

Li, F., et al. (2023). Finite element modeling of plantar fascia stress in relation to midsole hardness. MDPI. Retrieved from https://www.mdpi.com/2306-5354/10/5/533.

Meier, R., et al. (2022). Effect of midsole hardness on diabetic foot plantar pressure distribution. Journal of Foot and Ankle Research, 15(6). Retrieved from https://jfootankleres.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1757-1146-6-S1-P7.

Wang, H., et al. (2024). Advances in 3D-printed midsoles for foot health. SpringerOpen - Fashion and Textiles. Retrieved from https://fashionandtextiles.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s40691-024-00402-x.