What is the difference between diabetic and regular shoes?

Diabetic shoes: Are extra-depth, high toe box, light weight, and most important come with custom insoles.

More room in toe box: Diabetic shoes have passed a govenrment (cms) test for providing extra room in the front of the shoe. The toe box of the shoe is deeper than regaular shoes. New balance, atrexm rockport, surefit, orthofeet are a few companies that make a diabetic shoe.

Depth: Diabetic shoe usually have extra depth to be able to accommodate orthotic or multidensity inserts.

Better fit: There are a few characteristics that make a shoe, a diabetic shoe, good heel counter, extra depth, room for custom inserts, a closure, either lace or velcro. Some diabetic shoes are stretchy- for bunions and hammartoes, some lined with a soft material, some are very sneaker-like, some are a bit dressy, some sturdy like a workboot. Lots of possibilities but in general they are safer to wear.