Global Diabetic Footwear Market Overview, 2024-29

Market Dynamic

Market Drivers • Aging Population and Increased Longevity: The global population is aging, and with age comes an increased risk of developing diabetes. As people live longer, the prevalence of diabetes is expected to rise, contributing to a sustained demand for diabetic footwear. The aging demographic also emphasizes the importance of preventive measures to maintain overall health, including foot care. • Government Initiatives for Diabetes Management: Governments and healthcare organizations worldwide are recognizing the economic burden of diabetes and its associated complications. To address this, there is a growing emphasis on preventive measures and management strategies. Some regions are implementing awareness programs, subsidies, or healthcare policies that promote the use of diabetic footwear as part of a comprehensive diabetes care plan. Market Challenges • Lack of Standardization in Sizing: Achieving a consistent and standardized sizing system for diabetic footwear remains a challenge. The lack of uniformity in sizing can lead to difficulties for consumers in finding the right fit, potentially affecting the effectiveness of the footwear in preventing complications. Standardization efforts within the industry could address this challenge and improve the overall user experience. • Consumer Perception and Stigma: Overcoming the stigma associated with diabetic footwear is an ongoing challenge. Some individuals may perceive these shoes as purely functional and not aesthetically pleasing. Manufacturers are working to change this perception by incorporating stylish designs and marketing diabetic footwear as a fashionable choice, aligning with the broader trend of health-conscious consumers seeking both functionality and style. Market Trends • E-commerce and Online Retail Platforms: The rise of e-commerce has significantly impacted the distribution channels for diabetic footwear. Online platforms offer a convenient way for individuals to access a wide range of diabetic shoe options, compare reviews, and make informed choices. This trend enhances accessibility, especially for those in remote areas, and allows consumers to explore various styles and features. • Customization and Personalization: There is a growing trend toward offering customizable diabetic footwear to meet the unique needs of individuals. Some manufacturers provide options for personalized insoles, adjustable closures, and even 3D-printed shoes tailored to the specific contours of a person's feet. This customization trend aims to enhance comfort and address individual foot conditions more precisely.

Key Development

• In April 2023, Skechers took over Sports Connection Holding, a Scandinavia-based operator of distributor business. This acquisition aimed to broaden the company's customer reach in Europe. • In November 2023, Orthofeet, Inc. A shuffling gait is a gait type characterized by dragging the feet along the ground or not fully lifting them. There are many causes of shuffling gait patterns. Most commonly, these patterns are associated with health conditions that affect the nervous system, joints, or muscles, like peripheral neuropathy, Parkinson’s disease, or cerebral palsy. • In May 2022, Anodyne, LLC, a major provider of clinical footwear products most typically prescribed for diabetic patients, announced that HealthEdge Investment Partners, LLC a healthcare-focused private equity fund, had finalized an investment in the company • In May 2022, Enovis, a global medical technology firm, had acquired 360 Med Care Pty Ltd, an Australia-based orthopaedic startup. The goal is to improve patient outcomes throughout the orthopaedic care process. • In April 2022, HealthEdge Investment Partners, LLC a healthcare focused private equity fund, had acquired Anodyne, LLC (“Anodyne”), a leading provider of lifestyle-oriented clinical footwear solutions most commonly prescribed for diabetic patients.