Experts recommend that individuals participating in a particular sport at least three times a week select athletic shoes designed specifically for the sport. Factors to consider when shopping for any type of fitness footwear include:

• Comfort
• Support
• Durability
• Control of foot motion

Not every sport is appropriate for all individuals. People with diabetes should consult their physician before beginning a sport or exercise program.

The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) has identified seven categories of athletic shoes:

• Running, training and walking. Running shoes should provide flexibility, extra cushioning, good heel control and maximum shock absorption. Walking shoes should have a soft, comfortable upper, smooth tread, extra shock absorption and a rounded or “rocker” sole design. It is important to note that although running shoes may be used for walking, walking shoes should not be used for running.

Cross–training shoes are most appropriate for beginner and intermediate athletes. They should be less flexible than running shoes, yet able to adapt to various applications, such as walking and aerobics. There are several types of cross–trainers (e.g., for running and walking, for running and hiking). Individuals should select cross–trainers designed for the specific activities in which they engage.

• Court sports (e.g., tennis, racquetball, handball, squash, basketball, volleyball). Athletic shoes for these activities should have good traction and stiff, durable soles designed to withstand the heavy abuse that often occurs when individuals make sudden stops and shift their weight forward, backward and from side to side.
  
  
• Field sports (e.g., soccer, baseball, football, lacrosse). Shoes for these activities rely on cleats, studs or spikes imbedded into nylon soles for added traction.
  
  
• Winter sports (e.g., ice skates for figure skating and hockey, boots for skiing). Ample ankle support is the most important consideration when selecting new footwear for winter activities.
  
  
• Track and field sports. Shoes for track and field sports vary by activity. For instance, runners and sprinters may have different footwear considerations than pole vaulters. The AOFAS recommends consulting a coach or athletic trainer to determine the proper shoe for various track and field events.
  
  
• Specialty sports. Dance, golf, bicycling, bowling and wrestling all have activity–specific shoes. For example, some bicycling shoes clip into the bike pedals to improve pedaling efficiency.
  
  
• Outdoor sports. This category includes boots and shoes designed for outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, hunting, fishing and boating.

In addition, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends that people with diabetes wear water shoes to protect the feet from injury during swimming, water aerobics and other aquatic activities. Sandals are generally discouraged as diabetic footwear because straps chafe, raising the risk of blisters that can lead to serious wounds. In addition, wearing sandals or going barefoot exposes the feet to puncture wounds, burns and wounds caused by drying and cracking of the skin.

The ADA also suggests that those who enjoy skateboarding buy special skate shoes that grip the board or wear flat-bottomed shoes that cover and protect the feet.

Choosing the correct socks for athletics and other uses is also a concern for diabetic individuals. It is best to avoid socks with constrictive elastic bands or seams.