The Best Shoes for Pregnant Women in 2026

The key is to look for support and flexibility.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 2:53pm

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Knowing what types of shoes can best support your feet and keep you stable as your body changes during pregnancy can be incredibly helpful. Experts recommend looking for shoes with arch support, a wide toe box, a flexible upper, and the right amount of cushioning.

Why it matters

Maintaining stability and support while accommodating swelling and ligament laxity is crucial during pregnancy, not only for comfort but also to help prevent falls as your center of gravity changes.

The details

Some key features to look for in pregnancy shoes include arch support to reduce strain, a wide toe box to allow toes to splay, a soft and flexible upper to accommodate swelling, and moderate cushioning (not too soft) to keep the foot stable. Slip-on styles can also be helpful as bending over becomes more difficult.

  • Swelling and foot changes often start in the first trimester and can continue throughout pregnancy.

The players

Dr. Samantha Landau

A podiatrist and professor at New York College of Podiatric Medicine at Touro University.

Dr. Don Kim

A podiatrist and owner of Kim Holistic Foot & Ankle Center in Long Beach, California.

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What they’re saying

“During pregnancy, many patients notice that their feet become flatter and sometimes slightly longer or wider. The arch often lowers because the ligaments that support the arch become more lax.”

— Dr. Samantha Landau, Podiatrist

“Because arches tend to flatten when carrying a baby, finding shoes with good arch support can reduce strain and improve comfort. Having this support will also help stabilize your foot and make you feel more steady.”

— Dr. Don Kim, Podiatrist

What’s next

As your pregnancy progresses, it's important to continue evaluating your shoe needs and making adjustments to accommodate any changes in your feet.

The takeaway

Investing in supportive, comfortable shoes during pregnancy can help maintain stability, prevent falls, and keep you feeling your best as your body goes through significant changes.