Top 10 Best Rocker Bottoms for Men & Women
As an Amazon Associate, we may receive a small commission from qualifying purchases but at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Shoes were originally designed to provide foot protection. Recently, they are increasingly being used to correct mobility issues or provide relief against a wide range of foot conditions. And rocker bottom shoes fall under this category.
Rocker bottom shoes are a type of orthopedic shoes whose sole unit is thicker than normal. They are normally prescribed or recommended to people who have a limited range of motion – such as those with plantar fasciitis, arthritis, ankle sprains or foot ulcers.
However, finding the right pair of rocker bottom shoes is not always easy. Fortunately, we’ve already done the heavy lifting for you. Here are some of the best rocker bottom shoes that will keep your feet as comfortable as possible, while helping you to remain well balanced.
Top 5 Best Rocker Bottom Shoes For Women
HOKA ONE ONE Women's Bondi 6 Running Shoes, Canton/Green Blue Slate, Size 10.5
If you are looking for a pair of rocker bottom shoes that offer maximum cushioning as well as a comfortable ride, then the Hoka One One Bondi 6 is an excellent choice. Perfect as daily walking or training shoe, the Bondi 6 is a great choice for professional and recreational runners who want to keep training and exercising despite overuse injuries.
With its remarkable grip and traction on different surfaces, plenty of cushioning and arch support, exceptional breathability and a great fit, the Hoka One Bondi 6 is highly recommended for the active woman who enjoys regular walks and runs.
They come with an upper made of engineered mesh, designed to promote maximum airflow into the foot chamber. Whether you are walking, working or training in these shoes, your foot will always remain cool and dry.
Hoka One has also equipped these rocker bottom shoes for wide feet with a rear pull-on tab, designed to make your work easier when putting on or removing these shoes. They also come with a traditional lace-up closure, which provides a secure, snug and supportive fit. While these shoes may appear heavy, they are surprisingly light. And this can be attributed to their redesigned outsole. Also, the EVA foam that has been used throughout the midsole is of low density.
As much as these shoes come with massive amounts of cushioning, it doesn’t mean that they will slow you down. Running with them feels steady, responsive and smooth. Similar to other shoes from this company, the Bondi 6 features the Hoka One’s Rocker-Meta technology, designed to provide a smooth and efficient running experience.
The Rocker-Meta technology, combined with the plush cushioning in the midsole can help to soften your steps and help to reduce the discomfort that comes with overuse injuries. Therefore, if you are on the market for rocker bottom shoes for plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis, then the Hoka One Bondi 6 is worth considering.
Skechers Women's Cheriton Shuykill Food Service Shoe, Black Leather, 7 M US
Skechers is a popular footwear brand that has been around for close to 30 years. They are renowned for high quality, comfortable and stylish footwear. And the Skechers Work Cheriton is no exception. As much as these rocker bottom shoes for knee pain and heel pain may not be as fancy as others from this manufacturer, it’s comfort, functionality, cushioning and responsiveness are on another level.
Featuring an upper made of leather, these shoes are built and designed to last. However, the use of leather as opposed to mesh doesn’t hinder breathability in any way. Their upper features several ventilation pores, which help to keep your feet fresh, cool and dry at all times. Both the collar and the tongue are adequately padded, for additional cushioning and comfort. They also come with a lace-up closure, designed to provide a custom and secure fit.
Whether you are a restaurant worker, a casino worker or just someone who spends most of their workday on their feet, these rocker bottom shoes with a wide toe box will do wonders for your feet. They are equipped with an EVA memory foam footbed, which will cushion your steps and help to ease strain and stress on your legs, feet, ankles, knee, and back. Also, they come with non-slip rubber outsoles, thus making them perfect for wet and slippery conditions.
MBT Women's Kisumu 3S Walking Shoe, Brown, 38 EU/7-7.5 M US
If you are looking for a functional, durable and comfortable pair of sandals for exploring the city, or casual strolls, then the MBT Kisumu 3S is a solid choice. As much as this sandal may not be as stylish as others in its class, you can rest assured that it will get the job done perfectly. It will wrap your foot with its comfortable leather straps, thus helping to keep your foot securely locked in place as you walk around. It also comes with a rocker heel, which helps to promote posture, stability, and balance when you are walking.
The upper features Nappa and soft sheepskin leather, which is stretchy, comfortable and soft to your skin. MBT has equipped these sandals with two adjustable Velcro straps, designed to provide a secure and custom fit. Once you adjust and lock the straps, your foot will not be sliding around as you walk.
These rocker bottom shoes for big toe arthritis come with a solvent-free microfiber footbed, featuring anti-odor and anti-microbial treatment. And with their non-slip rubber outsole, you are assured for adequate traction and grip wherever you go.
MBT Womens Colorado 17 Grey/Purple Rocker Bottom Fitness Walking Shoe Size 7.5
The MBT Colorado 17 is a comfortable, lightweight and a well-built shoe designed with stability in mind. It delivers a responsive, plush and comfortable walking experience. Similar to other shoes from this brand, the Colorado 17 comes with a rocker bottom outsole, making it a great choice for people dealing with leg and foot problems as well as those recovering from injuries. If you are looking for rocker bottom shoes for neuropathy, plantar fasciitis, or athlete’s foot, then you should get yourself a pair of these.
These MBT rocker bottom shoes come with a mesh upper, which helps to keep the shoes lightweight and breathable. Also, the upper features synthetic overlays, which add structure and stability to the shoe. These rocker bottom shoes for diabetics also feature a padded collar and tongue, which help to enhance their comfort and cushioning. On the other hand, their lace-up closure ensures a custom and secure fit while a rear pull-on tab provides an easy and fast on and off.
If your work involves prolonged standing or moving from one location to another, or you suffer from leg and foot injuries, these shoes will be a perfect match for your needs. They are super comfortable, fit perfectly and they are highly functional. Also, they come with a non-marking rubber outsole, which provides remarkable grip and traction. Whether you are a factory worker or an athlete who is recovering from an injury, you will find these rocker bottom shoes incredibly helpful.
Skechers Women's Shape Ups Everyday Comfort Fashion Sneaker, Black/Hot Pink, 8.5 M US
Are you looking for a pair of comfortable and stylish rocker bottom shoes? Or are you recovering from an injury and you need a pair of stability shoes that can help to relieve pain and manage your gait issues?
If yes, then you should not look further than the Skechers Shape-Ups 2.0 comfort fashion sneaker. Just like their name suggests, these rocker bottom shoes are both stylish and comfortable. They will keep your feet looking great and feeling comfy. And besides being stylish and comfortable, these sneakers are also highly durable.
These rocker bottom shoes for stress fracture are equipped with a mesh upper, which ensures your foot remains cool and fresh, regardless of how long you wear them. Skechers has also outfitted them with a cushioned, memory foam insole, which provides excellent cushioning, and shock absorption while enhancing their comfort.
On the other hand, their sturdy rubber outsole supplies traction and grip while their padded collar and tongue supply additional cushioning, comfort and support. And unlike other rocker bottom shoes for hallux rigidus, these are comfortable and ready to wear straight out of the box. Therefore, they don’t require any break-in period.
If a pair of stylish, comfortable and durable rocker bottom shoes is what you desire, then you should consider this option.
Top 5 Best Rocker Bottom Shoes For Men
Exersteps Men's Whirlwind Black Sneakers,Black,11 M US
If you are suffering from plantar fasciitis, big toe arthritis or you are experiencing mobility issues, you will need to invest in a pair of shoes that will provide stability, comfort and shock absorption. Well, that pair of shoes is none other than the Exersteps Whirlwind. They come with an upper made of leather, which lends them durability, as well as a stylish look.
Their bottom is slightly curved so that it can create some instability and activate some leg and foot muscles. These rocker bottom shoes for big toe arthritis also come with a lightweight midsole, which has been optimized to absorb shock and provide impact attenuation – especially when you are walking on hard surfaces or platforms. Exersteps has further outfitted these rocker bottom shoes with molded socks, designed to enhance the comfort levels of these shoes.
These rocker bottom shoes for plantar fasciitis, diabetes, and arthritis, also come with removable insoles, meaning you can replace them with custom orthotics, in case you have a foot condition that may need special attention. They also come with a non-marking rubber outsole, which is both grippy and durable. With these rocker bottom shoes for fused ankles, you will not experience slipping or sliding, even when you encounter slippery or wet surfaces. Furthermore, they are true to size and they don’t need any break-in period.
Gravity Defyer Men's G-Defy Ion Pain Relief Gray Red Walking Diabetes Shoes Good for Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Pain
If you are looking for a stable, supportive and comfortable pair of shoes for standing all day, then the Gravity Defyer G-Defy is a perfect choice. These rocker bottom shoes for pain relief and plantar fasciitis are breathable, lightweight and comfortable. In short, they come with almost all the features that you would need in a pair of walking shoes. And besides being super comfortable, they are also stylish and fashionable.
Similar to other stability shoes from this brand, the G-Defy is equipped with the company’s patented Versoshock technology, which helps to cushion the feet, soften your steps and absorb impact every time your foot strikes the ground. Consequently, their ergonomic rocker design and the roomy toe box helps to minimize pressure on toe joints, provide ample wiggle room for the toes and boost circulation around the toes. Their insoles are removable, which means you can use your own custom orthotics if you prefer.
These rocker bottom shoes with a wide toe box come with a mesh fabric upper, designed to promote maximum airflow to your feet. Whether you are using these rocker bottom shoes for running, walking, or working, your feet will remain cool, sweat-free and comfortable the entire day. Gravity Defyer has also outfitted them with a padded collar and tongue, which help to prevent chafing and irritation around your ankles.
On the other hand, the traditional lace-up closure provides a custom and snug fit while the web-last technology helps to enhance the durability of the mesh upper. If you are suffering from chronic back pain, foot pain, ankle pain, and knee pain, these rocker bottom shoes for pain relief, diabetics, arthritic feet, and neuropathy are just what you need.
HOKA ONE ONE Men's Clifton 5 Running Shoe Black Iris/Storm Blue 11.5
The Hoka One One Clifton 5 is a lightweight, well-cushioned and a speedy running shoe that delivers a smooth and soft ride. You will love its sturdy build, their well-ventilated upper and as well as their stylish build. These super-comfortable rocker bottom shoes come with an engineered mesh upper, which is both flexible and soft.
It hugs your foot snugly, without limiting mobility. The upper also comes with lots of ventilation pores, which allow fresh air to move into the foot chamber, thus helping to maintain a fresh, cool and healthy foot environment. The engineered mesh has further been reinforced with 3D Print Frame, which adds durability to the shoe while enhancing its aesthetics. The 3D Puff Print Frame also helps to add structure to the upper.
A traditional lace-up closure has also been included, to allow a customizable fit. Both the collar and the tongue have been adequately padded for extra support and comfort while a pull-on tab attached to the rear part of the collar will help you when it’s time to wear or remove these shoes. The midsole of these rocker bottom shoes for men features EVA foam, which helps to diffuse impact whenever the foot strikes the ground.
The midsole unit has also been equipped with Hoka One’s patented Meta-Rocker technology, which provides smooth heel-to-toe transitions. They also come with an Ortholite sockliner for additional cushioning. The Ortholite sockliner features anti-sweat and anti-microbial properties, to prevent the build-up of unpleasant foot odors and prevent foot infections. High Abrasion Lightweight Rubber has been inserted in strategic areas of the outsole to provide traction and prevent premature wear and tear.
Gravity Defyer Men's GDEFY Mighty Walk Athletic Sneakers 11.5 W US - VersoShock Proven Performance Walking Shoes Grey
If you have plantar fasciitis or you are someone who experiences chronic back pain, knee pain, or back pain, you may find it extremely challenging to walk or stand for long. Fortunately, these Gravity Defyer shoes provide a perfect solution for you. They are specifically designed to provide relief for people suffering from various conditions such as back pain, knee pain, foot pain, bunions, hammertoes, and heel spurs, among others. These rocker bottom shoes for neuropathy provide a secure fit for all-day comfort.
Gravity Defyer has outfitted these shoes with its proprietary VersoShock technology, which helps to minimize the amount of impact that your feet experience when you are walking. This technology also adds spring to your step, thus helping to minimize fatigue and pain. They also feature a smooth and seamless interior, which helps to prevent irritation, hot spots, and blisters. Their insoles are removable, which means you swap them for custom orthotics. Therefore, if you are looking for rocker bottom shoes for neuropathy, diabetes and sensitive feet, then you should get yourself a pair of these.
These rocker bottom shoes for plantar fasciitis come with a breathable mesh upper, which promotes adequate ventilation while ensuring your feet have maximum flexibility. The upper also features a padded collar and tongue for additional comfort while their traditional lace-up closure provides a personalized and secure fit. Their toe box is extra roomy, to ensure your toes have ample wiggle room.
MBT Men's kabisa 5-m, Black, 42 EU/8-8.5 M US
The MBT Kabisa 5 is a well-built, stylish and comfortable men’s dress shoe that is recommended for people with back pain, knee pain, or ankle problems. These rocker bottom dress shoes come with a calfskin leather upper, which is renowned for its smooth, supple nature. Therefore, these shoes will mold to your feet over time, resulting in a comfortable fit.
MBT has also outfitted these shoes with a cow skin footbed, which provides a smooth and comfortable platform for your feet to rest on. The footbeds are removable, meaning you can add your own custom orthotics depending on the fit, support and cushioning that you prefer.
These rocker bottom shoes for fused ankles also come with a non-marking rubber Vibram outsole, which is non-slip and oil resistant. Apart from supplying grip and traction, the Vibram rubber outsole also helps to protect the other components of the shoe against premature wear and tear. Designed for people who have foot conditions as well as those who spend most of the time on their feet, these dress shoes will keep your feet comfortable, alleviate pain, and help you to recover from foot injuries.
Also, they are well-made and highly versatile, which means you can use them casually and formally.
Best Rocker Bottom Shoes Buying Guide
Whether you’ve decided to use rocker bottom shoes as a fashion statement or for their effectiveness in managing gait issues and relieving pain, it’s important to choose the right pair – if you want to get the most out of these shoes. Here are some of the factors to consider when buying rocker-bottom soles.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort is arguably one of the most important factors to consider when buying any type of shoe. And rocker bottom shoes are no exception. You should choose a pair of shoes that fit well, and is comfortable to wear all day long.
Also, your rocker bottom shoes should be breathable, to ensure your feet remain cool, dry and fresh whenever you are wearing them. You should also select a pair that has a padded collar and tongue, as well as a soft interior lining. If you are buying your rocker bottom shoes from a local store, you should put them on and walk in them for a few minutes.
If you feel any pinching, then you should opt for a bigger size. A comfortable pair of shoes should fit snugly, without feeling too tight.
Rocker bottom shoes are suitable for all sorts of people, foot problems and situations. For example, if you do a lot of standing and walking in your every day job, such as running a store or nursing in a hospital, then rocker soles are definitely something you should consider.
If you’ve never tried them, then you could always give them a shot. They might not be for everybody, but you’ll never know for sure, unless you try them out first. Who knows, you may never want to look back.
Shoe Type
There are different types of rocker bottom shoes. Each type of shoe is designed to serve a specific function. Consequently, if you want to get maximum benefits from rocker shoes, then you will choose the right rocker bottom shoe that aligns with your specific needs. Some of the most popular rocker bottom shoes include:
Toe-off Rocker Shoes: These rocker bottom shoes are designed to minimize unnecessary movement at the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joints. You’ll want to avoid pain in these joints at all costs. These types of shoes are recommended to individuals who experience limited toe mobility or those with a mild foot drop.
Ankle Joint: These shoes feature a thicker heel and midfoot area, to help minimize excessive movement of ankle joints. Ankle joint rocker bottom shoes are a great choice for individuals who experience limited front and back ankle mobility. Also, they can help reduce the discomfort, pain and mobility issues caused by arthritis.
Metatarsal Head Rocker: These rocker bottom shoes work best for people with foot neuromas, callous or other similar forefoot conditions.
Other types of rocker bottom shoes include double rocker, negative heel rocker, lisfranc rocker, healing rocker, heel rocker and MPJ rocker, among others. Therefore, when it’s time to purchase rocker bottom shoes, you should choose a type that specifically the foot and leg issues that you are facing.
Foot Type
Before purchasing a pair of rocker bottom shoes, it’s of utmost importance to consider your foot type. For example, if you have healthy feet, then your needs will be different from someone who has a medical condition like plantar fasciitis or arthritis.
It’s also important to note that prolonged walking or standing in rocker bottom shoes could lead to foot problems and issues, especially if you don’t have a foot condition.
On the other hand, wearing rocker bottom shoes could help to relieve any discomfort or pain that you may be experiencing if you have a foot condition.
Outsole
Whether you are buying rocker bottom shoes to use as casual shoes, work shoes or walking shoes, their outsole should provide reliable and adequate traction and grip.
Apart from providing traction, the outsole should also be sturdy enough, to resist premature wear and tear, and abrasion caused by the surfaces that it encounters. If possible, you should choose a pair that comes with a rubber outsole.
Rubber outsoles provide remarkable traction and grip. Furthermore, they are also sturdy, thus helping to resist premature wear and tear. You should also note that the outsole of rocker bottom shoes also plays a role in stability, cushioning, and shock absorption.
Therefore, the outsole of rocker bottom shoes will be thicker than that of conventional shoes. So, how much thickness should you opt for? As a rule of thumb, you should choose a pair whose outsole is at least 30mm thick.
Midsole and Insole
Similar to other types of shoes, the midsole in rocker bottom shoes is responsible for cushioning, shock absorption and support. Therefore, it’s an important feature to consider when buying these shoes.
The majority of rocker bottom shoes that you will find on the market come with a midsole made of EVA or polyurethane. EVA midsoles are renowned for their remarkable cushioning, support and stability.
Furthermore, they are also lightweight, which means they will not add too much weight to the shoe. The midsole of your rocker bottom shoes should not be flexible since it’s designed to stabilize the metatarsal area of your foot.
As for the insole, you should look for one that will conform to the shape of your foot, while providing comfort as you walk. Some rocker bottom shoes come with removable insoles, designed for people who may want to use custom orthotics.
Durability
Rocker bottom shoes don’t come cheap. Therefore, the pair of shoes that you will buy is going to be a valuable investment. And that’s why you need to make sure that you purchase a durable pair that can serve you for long. So, how do you check for durability?
The quality of workmanship is the easiest means of determining the durability of shoes. If there is excessive glue where the upper meets the outsole or the upper is poorly stitched, it’s a clear sign that those shoes will not last long. Second, it’s advisable to read reviews left behind by previous buyers.
If most of the reviews have highlighted a certain manufacturing defect, then it’s highly likely that those shoes will experience premature wear and tear.
Why Wear Rocker Bottom Shoes?
Rocker bottom shoes are designed to help people with foot problems and conditions such as metatarsalgia, feet ulcers, hammertoes, arthritis, and heel pain, among others. These shoes can also help to correct gait issues and improve balance. Here are some benefits of wearing rocker bottom shoes.
Enhanced Comfort: Wearing flat footwear or high-heeled shoes for long can lead to leg and foot pain. Therefore, if your work involves prolonged standing, wearing rocker bottom shoes can help to ease that pain and discomfort, and make your day more productive and enjoyable. As long as you choose the right type of rocker bottom shoes for your feet, you will no longer have to worry about foot pain, heel pain, knee pain and other issues that may arise from standing all day.
Prevent Unnecessary Joint Movement: Swelling, inflammation, sprains and other joint issues can lead to immense pain, especially if your work involves moving around or standing. And if you are wearing a regular pair of shoes, you will be forced to move your injured joints, leading to severe pain. On the other hand, if you are wearing rocker bottom work shoes, they will limit unnecessary joint movements, thus helping to minimize joint pain.
Cushioning and Support: Rocker bottom shoes come with extra thickness in the outsole, designed to cushion your feet and provide shock absorption. Apart from alleviating discomfort, the cushioning in these shoes also helps to protect your knees, back, hips and other areas of the body from the impact of walking or standing on hard surfaces.
Improved Balance and Posture: Rocker bottom shoes feature a curved sole, which creates an unstable platform. To correct this situation, your body is normally forced to adapt accordingly to provide the much-needed balance. With prolonged use of these shoes, your body balance and posture will be enhanced. However, it’s important to note that rocker bottom shoes are not recommended for people who already have balance issues, such as those suffering from vertigo.
Without a doubt, rocker bottom shoes will come in handy for people suffering from various foot conditions and those with mobility issues. Furthermore, they are available in a wide range of designs and styles, which means they will keep your feet feeling great and looking fashionable. Furthermore, you can also use them as height increasing shoes, casual shoes, work shoes or even as your walking shoes.
Closing Remarks
As noted above, rocker bottom shoes are designed to help people suffering from various foot conditions or those with limited mobility. As much as these shoes may not heal these ailments, they can help to alleviate the pain and discomfort, thus increasing the individual’s range of motion.
If you are suffering from arthritis, plantar fasciitis, or you are experiencing decreased mobility, the above shoes can help with your condition. You simply need to invest in a pair that aligns with your condition or situation.
