08-02-2009, KentB: A Popular Walker from Instride

Instride’s most popular walker is called the Newport, and it is available for both men and women.  The Newport is a great choice for diabetics who have an active lifestyle.  It can be used as a walking shoe, or as footwear for everyday.  Remember: diabetic footwear should be worn at all times, especially if you have a history of foot ulcers or amputations. 

Let’s take a closer look at why the Newport exemplifies what you should look for in a diabetic shoe.  Even if you decide that the Newport is not the shoe for you, look for similar features in other brands or styles of diabetic shoes.

Full grain leather upper.  Choosing shoes made from high quality leather is a smart investment for any person with diabetes.  Unlike synthetic material, leather allows air to circulate in and out of the shoe.  This airflow helps to keep feet cool and dry.  Sweaty shoes often increase friction between the material of the shoe and the delicate skin of your feet.  This increase in friction promotes blisters, corns, calluses and other minor foot injuries that can lead to foot ulcers.  Keeping your feet dry will also help decrease the likelihood of infection in the event that one of these minor foot injuries develops. 

3-Layer Custom Fit System™.  The Newport comes with three removable insoles.  The shoe’s design allows you to adjust the size of the shoe to accommodate the changing needs of your feet.  For example, you can remove one or all of the shoes insoles in order to use a customized orthotic.  Or you can change the size of your shoe throughout the day to accommodate swelling in your feet.  Removable insoles also make it easier to air out your shoes after a brisk walk or jog.  Keeping athletic shoes dry is an important part of fighting off the early stages of bacterial or fungal infections. 

Seamless interior.  All quality diabetic shoes should have a seamless interior.  Lumps, bumps, stitching and seams in the lining can aggravate your skin and result in calluses and blisters. 

CMEVA Midsole.  The Newport’s midsole is designed to promote stability which will protect your ankles, knees and hips as well as the skin of your feet.  These stability features are what distinguish the Newport from other non-athletic diabetic shoes.  The extra support is crucial if you intend to put a lot of miles on your athletic shoes.