Best Walking Shoes After Hip Replacement 2026: 5 Supportive Picks

Best Walking Shoes After Hip Replacement

Choosing shoes may seem like a small part of hip replacement recovery, but the right pair can make everyday walking more comfortable.

After surgery, you may spend time using a walker or cane while your strength, balance, and walking pattern improve. AAOS recommends starting with walking inside and gradually building mobility and endurance, while your doctor or physical therapist determines how much weight you should place on the leg and when you can stop using an assistive device.

That means your first recovery shoes do not need to be fancy.

They need to be stable, comfortable, secure, and easy to put on.

Our Top Picks at a Glance

Shoe	Best for	Stability	Cushioning	Wide sizes	Easy to put on
Brooks Dyad Walker	Stability-focused walking	★★★★★	★★★★☆	✓	★★☆☆☆
New Balance 928v3	Motion control & wide feet	★★★★★	★★★★☆	✓	★★★☆☆
Orthofeet Coral	Easy-on comfort	★★★★☆	★★★★☆	✓	★★★★★
SAS Tempo Walker	Premium comfort	★★★★☆	★★★★☆	✓	★★★☆☆
ASICS Gel-Contend 7	Budget option	★★★☆☆	★★★★☆	Varies	★★★☆☆

If you only want one place to start: the Brooks Dyad Walker is our stability-focused pick. If getting shoes on and off is difficult, look at the Orthofeet Coral instead.

Important: These are editorial recommendations, not medical prescriptions or endorsements by AAOS, Mayo Clinic, or any other medical organization. Your surgeon or physical therapist's instructions should come first.

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1. Brooks Dyad Walker — Best for Stability

Best for: People who prioritize stability while rebuilding confidence with walking.

The Brooks Dyad Walker is a structured walking shoe designed around a stable platform and supportive construction. That makes it an appealing option when your main concern is feeling secure with each step.

Why we like it

• Broad, stable platform
• Supportive construction
• Cushioned midsole
• Available in multiple widths
• Designed for walking rather than high-impact sport
• Secure lace-up fit

The trade-off

The biggest downside is convenience.

A traditional lace-up shoe can be difficult to put on during the first part of recovery if bending is uncomfortable. If someone else will help with shoes, this may not matter. If you need to put your shoes on yourself, an easy-on option may be more practical.

Best for

Choose the Dyad if your priority is:

"I want a stable walking shoe, and I don't mind using laces."

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2. New Balance 928v3 — Best for Wide Feet and Motion Control

Best for: People who need extra width or prefer a more structured walking shoe.

The New Balance 928 series is known for its supportive construction and motion-control design. Its availability in multiple widths is particularly useful because shoe fit can become more difficult when feet are wider, swollen, or sensitive.

Why we like it

• Multiple width options
• Structured walking design
• Motion-control features
• Cushioned midsole
• Durable outsole
• Secure lace-up fit

The trade-off

The 928v3 has a more traditional shoe design and may feel heavier or less flexible than a lightweight running shoe.

It also requires tying, so it is not the best choice if reaching the feet is difficult.

Best for

Choose the 928v3 if your priority is:

"I need a supportive shoe that comes in a width that actually fits me."

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3. Orthofeet Coral — Best Easy-On Option

Best for: People who have difficulty bending, have sensitive feet, or need a more adjustable fit.

One of the biggest practical problems after hip replacement is not walking itself — it can be getting dressed and putting on shoes comfortably.

Orthofeet Coral is worth considering because of its easy-entry design, adjustable closure, cushioning, and roomy fit.

Why we like it

• Easy-entry design
• Adjustable closure
• Roomy fit
• Cushioned interior
• Orthotic-friendly construction
• Multiple width options

The trade-off

If you are looking for the firmest, most traditional walking-shoe feel, another option on this list may suit you better.

This is primarily the convenience and comfort pick.

Best for

Choose the Coral if your priority is:

"I want to get my shoes on without struggling to bend down."

AAOS also recommends preparing for joint replacement recovery with items such as a long-handled shoehorn, which can make putting on shoes easier when bending is difficult.

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4. SAS Tempo Walker — Best for Premium Comfort

Best for: People who prioritize comfort and a traditional walking-shoe design.

The SAS Tempo Walker is worth considering if you prefer a more substantial walking shoe and are willing to spend more for comfort.

Why we like it

• Comfortable upper
• Supportive construction
• Cushioned footbed
• Stable outsole
• Roomy toe area
• Traditional walking-shoe design

The trade-off

It is not the obvious choice for someone on a tight budget.

It is also not the easiest shoe to put on if bending is difficult.

Best for

Choose the Tempo Walker if your priority is:

"I want a comfortable walking shoe and don't mind paying more for it."

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5. ASICS Gel-Contend 7 — Best Budget Option

Best for: Budget-conscious shoppers who prefer a lightweight athletic shoe.

The Gel-Contend 7 is a more general-purpose athletic shoe than the other options on this list. That is both its advantage and its limitation.

It can make sense if you already know that you are comfortable in ASICS athletic shoes and want a relatively affordable walking option.

Why we like it

• Lightweight athletic-shoe design
• Cushioned midsole
• Breathable upper
• Flexible feel
• Usually less expensive than premium walking shoes

The trade-off

It does not offer the same stability-focused design as the Brooks Dyad or New Balance 928v3.

For someone who feels particularly unsteady after surgery, I would look at the stability-focused options first.

Best for

Choose the Gel-Contend if your priority is:

"I want a simple, comfortable athletic shoe without spending a lot."

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Which Walking Shoe Should You Choose?

You don't need to buy the most expensive shoe.

Start with the problem you are trying to solve.

Choose the Brooks Dyad if:

• Stability is your top priority
• You feel unsteady while walking
• You prefer a structured walking shoe
• Someone can help you put on your shoes

Our stability pick: Brooks Dyad Walker

Choose the New Balance 928v3 if:

• You need a wide or extra-wide shoe
• You prefer a structured walking shoe
• Motion control is important to you
• You have trouble finding comfortable widths

Our wide-fit pick: New Balance 928v3

Choose the Orthofeet Coral if:

• Bending is difficult
• You want an easy-on design
• Your feet are sensitive
• You need an adjustable fit

Our easy-on pick: Orthofeet Coral

Choose the SAS Tempo Walker if:

• Comfort is your biggest priority
• You prefer a traditional walking shoe
• You don't mind spending more

Our comfort pick: SAS Tempo Walker

Choose the ASICS Gel-Contend if:

• Budget matters
• You prefer athletic shoes
• You want a lightweight option
• You don't need maximum stability

Our budget pick: ASICS Gel-Contend 7

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What Makes a Good Shoe After Hip Replacement?

There is no single "hip replacement shoe."

Instead, look for a few practical features.

1. A Stable Base

A shoe should feel stable when you stand and walk.

Look for:

• A reasonably broad sole
• A secure heel
• A firm enough midsole
• A design that does not feel wobbly

If you already use a walker or cane, your physical therapist can help you decide what type of footwear works best with your walking pattern.

2. Good Traction

Traction matters because a slip can be especially problematic when your strength and balance are still returning.

Look for a rubber outsole with a useful tread pattern.

Avoid shoes with visibly worn-down soles.

3. Comfortable Cushioning

You do not necessarily need the softest shoe available.

Too much softness can sometimes make a shoe feel less stable.

Instead, look for cushioning that feels comfortable while still allowing you to feel secure when standing.

4. The Right Width

Do not automatically buy your old shoe size.

Your feet may need a different width or fit than before.

When trying shoes:

• Your toes should have room to move
• Your heel should stay reasonably secure
• Your foot should not feel squeezed
• Do not assume "breaking in" will fix a painful fit

A shoe that hurts in the store is usually not a good recovery shoe.

5. Easy Entry

This feature is easy to overlook.

After surgery, bending and reaching may be uncomfortable or restricted depending on your surgical approach and your surgeon's instructions.

Consider:

• Elastic laces
• Adjustable closures
• Easy-entry designs
• A long-handled shoehorn

AAOS specifically includes a long-handled shoehorn among items that can help during joint-replacement recovery.

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What Shoes Should You Avoid After Hip Replacement?

You do not necessarily need to avoid an entire category of shoes forever.

During early recovery, however, some styles are less practical.

Avoid loose slippers

A loose slipper can move around on your foot and may not provide the stability you want while your walking pattern is changing.

Avoid worn-out athletic shoes

Even a good shoe becomes less useful when the outsole and midsole are heavily worn.

Be careful with very high heels

High heels change how your weight is distributed and can make balance more difficult.

They are not a sensible choice for early recovery walking.

Be careful with flip-flops

Flip-flops can be difficult to walk in securely and generally provide little support.

Avoid shoes that are too tight

A shoe should not squeeze your toes or create pressure points.

If your feet are swollen or sensitive, an adjustable or wider shoe may be more comfortable.

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Can You Wear Running Shoes After Hip Replacement?

Often, a supportive athletic shoe can be perfectly reasonable for walking after hip replacement.

The label "running shoe" is less important than how the shoe feels and performs for you.

For walking during recovery, look for:

• Stable footing
• Comfortable cushioning
• Secure fit
• Good traction
• A manageable weight
• A fit that does not create pressure points

Your surgeon or physical therapist should determine when and how much you should walk.

Mayo Clinic notes that physical therapy can help patients regain joint and muscle function and learn to use walking aids such as a walker, cane, or crutches.

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When Can You Walk After Hip Replacement?

Walking often starts very soon after surgery.

Mayo Clinic notes that patients are encouraged to sit up and walk with crutches or a walker soon after hip replacement, partly because early movement is part of recovery and blood-clot prevention.

AAOS similarly recommends beginning with walking inside and gradually increasing mobility and endurance.

But there is an important distinction:

Starting to walk does not mean walking without assistance.

Your recovery may involve:

Walker → Cane → Independent walking

The exact timing varies.

Your surgeon and physical therapist should determine:

• How much weight you can place on the leg
• When you can reduce use of your walker
• When you can use a cane
• How far you should walk
• Which movements or positions you should avoid

Do not use a generic timeline from an article as a substitute for your own rehabilitation plan.

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How to Make Shoes Easier to Put On

This is especially important during the first part of recovery.

Instead of forcing yourself to bend over, consider:

Use a long-handled shoehorn

AAOS recommends a long-handled shoehorn as one useful preparation item for joint replacement recovery.

Choose easy-entry shoes

A shoe with an adjustable or hands-free design may be easier than a traditional lace-up shoe.

Sit down first

Put your shoes on while seated on a stable chair rather than standing.

Ask for help

There is no prize for putting your shoes on alone.

If your surgeon or physical therapist has given you movement restrictions, ask someone to help rather than working around those restrictions.

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What Should You Wear on the Day You Leave the Hospital?

If you are preparing for surgery, choose the shoes before surgery day.

A practical pair should be:

• Comfortable
• Easy to put on
• Secure around the heel
• Stable when standing
• Appropriate for the weather
• Large enough to accommodate normal swelling without being loose

You may also want to bring a long-handled shoehorn.

AAOS recommends preparing the home before joint replacement and placing frequently used items within easy reach so that unnecessary bending and reaching are reduced during recovery.

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A Simple Recovery Shoe Setup

You do not necessarily need three different pairs.

For many people, one good pair of supportive walking shoes is enough for most daily walking.

If you want a more convenient setup, you might use:

Pair #1: Main walking shoe

Use this for:

• Physical therapy
• Outdoor walks
• Doctor appointments
• Longer periods of walking

Our pick: Brooks Dyad Walker

Check Current Price & Sizes →✓ Free Returns

Pair #2: Easy-on shoe

Useful when:

• Bending is difficult
• You need something easy to put on
• You want a convenient indoor option

Our pick: Orthofeet Coral

Check Current Price & Sizes →✓ Free Returns

You do not need to buy both. Choose based on your mobility, budget, and the advice of your care team.

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Our Final Verdict

For most people searching for the best walking shoes after hip replacement, there is no single winner for every situation.

Instead:

Best for stability: Brooks Dyad Walker

Best for wide feet and motion control: New Balance 928v3

Best for easy-on comfort: Orthofeet Coral

Best for premium comfort: SAS Tempo Walker

Best budget option: ASICS Gel-Contend 7

If I were narrowing the list to just three, I would start with the Brooks Dyad Walker, New Balance 928v3, and Orthofeet Coral.

The most important thing is not choosing the shoe with the longest feature list.

Choose the shoe that:

fits your foot, feels stable, has good traction, and allows you to walk comfortably without working around your recovery restrictions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When can I start walking after hip replacement?

Walking often begins soon after surgery, usually with assistance. AAOS says patients commonly use crutches or a walker when first leaving the hospital, while their doctor or therapist determines weight-bearing and when those aids can be stopped.

Can I wear running shoes after hip replacement?

Many people can use supportive athletic shoes for walking. Focus on stability, comfort, traction, and fit rather than whether the shoe is labeled "running" or "walking."

What should I look for in shoes after hip replacement?

Prioritize a stable base, secure heel, comfortable cushioning, good traction, adequate toe room, and a fit that you can safely put on.

Are slip-on shoes good after hip replacement?

They can be useful when bending is difficult, but they should still fit securely. Avoid loose shoes that can move around or come off while walking.

Do I need special shoes after hip replacement?

Not necessarily. Many people can use regular supportive walking or athletic shoes. The best choice depends on your comfort, balance, foot shape, and recovery instructions.

Can I walk barefoot after hip replacement?

Ask your physical therapist what is appropriate for your situation. Early recovery can involve changes in strength and balance, so many people prefer supportive footwear while moving around the home.

How long does hip replacement recovery take?

Recovery varies considerably. Mayo Clinic notes that many people are doing well around three months after surgery, while improvements can continue for a year.

Should I use a walker or cane after hip replacement?

Your surgeon or physical therapist should determine when to use and stop using walking aids. AAOS notes that walkers or crutches are commonly used initially and that the care team determines when they are no longer needed.

What if my feet swell after surgery?

Ask your care team what is normal for you. If a shoe becomes tight or uncomfortable, do not simply force your foot into it. A wider or adjustable shoe may be more comfortable.

When should I replace my walking shoes?

Replace them when the outsole is visibly worn, cushioning has deteriorated, the shoe has become unstable, or the fit has changed. Do not rely only on a specific number of months because wear depends on how often and where you walk.

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Bottom Line

The best walking shoes after hip replacement are not necessarily the most expensive or the most heavily cushioned.

For early recovery, focus on the basics:

• Stable footing
• Good traction
• Comfortable cushioning
• Secure fit
• Enough room for your feet
• Easy entry when bending is difficult

And remember: your surgeon and physical therapist know your surgical approach and recovery plan. Their instructions should take priority over any general shoe recommendation.

Related Articles

• Best Walking Shoes After Knee Replacement
• Best Walking Shoes for Seniors
• Best Slip-On Shoes for Seniors
• Best Shoes for Seniors: Complete Guide
• Balance Exercises for Seniors
• Exercises to Improve Walking Speed After 70

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Sources

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), After Your Joint Replacement Surgery
• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), Preparing Your Home for Joint Replacement Surgery
• Mayo Clinic, Hip Replacement
• Mayo Clinic Health System, Questions to Ask Before Joint Replacement Surgery

Medical disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for medical advice. Your surgeon or physical therapist should determine your activity level, weight-bearing instructions, footwear restrictions, and rehabilitation plan.