Choosing comfortable footwear during pregnancy

Yes, you have a baby on the way! Something special grows in you, slowly but surely. Suddenly, you crave sweets—or perhaps lemons are more your thing. Your smell sharpens, and you find yourself napping at odd hours. Your body swells, getting broader as your baby grows, and your wardrobe shifts to softer and stretchier outfits. Yet, there’s something almost always overlooked: the comfort of what carries you through each day—your feet. Let’s talk about gentle, natural footwear that grows with you, as your little one does.

Uncomfortable feet during pregnancy?

Swollen feet: The unspoken journey of motherhood

Swollen feet are a quietly universal experience in pregnancy, especially as moms head into the second and third trimesters. This swelling happens as your body is holding onto fluids, causing buildup not only in your body, including the feet and ankles. The NHS explains that this swelling worsens with heat or standing for long periods but often eases when you lie down or elevate your legs. Now, lying down all day might sound like a dream for some and a nightmare for others. But in both cases, it is not a very realistic scenario, and suitable footwear can make the experience of swelling feet, both outdoors, at work, or at home, more comfortable.

The best shoes for this time are supposed to be loose, soft, and flexible, steering clear of anything too narrow or stiff

Why traditional shoes fall short for mamas-to-be

Comfortable footwear during pregnancy is not just a luxury - it’s a necessity. The best shoes for this time are supposed to be loose, soft, and flexible, steering clear of anything too narrow or stiff, so your feet never feel pinched or compressed. Though, most shoes simply don’t keep up with the changes of the body within pregnancy and when they do, they look far from beautiful and stylish - something you already might struggle with when your body is getting heavier with the day. So, what would be a good solution?

Shoes that grow with you

Our sustainable, handmade Earth Soles are a comfortable and stylish game-changer for swollen, sensitive feet. They are shaped to the natural contours of the foot, made with breathable leather tops and soles, and stretch as your body changes - adapting to you every step op the way. Soft as a second skin, they offer comfort and lightness so your feet are the last thing you’ll need to worry about during this beautiful journey into motherhood. We believe you deserve footwear that cares for you, as you care for your little one. If you do too, have a look at our  Earth Sole Collection - made from repurposed leather, designed to nurture your body and leave a lighter footprint for the one growing beneath your heart. 🌿

Happy mom, happy child.

Bonus: Self-Care for Sensitive and Swollen Feet

Pamper your feet with these simple, evidence-based routines, made for pregnancy comfort:

• Take regular breaks to elevate your feet. Resting with your feet up supports circulation and helps reduce swelling throughout the day (NHS).

• Choose shoes and socks that don't pinch. Opt for soft, comfortable, and roomy footwear—skip tight straps or anything that squeezes if your feet swell (NHS).

• Get moving with gentle walks or stretches. Simple exercises and light activity boost blood flow and prevent swelling or cramping (Medical News Today, Mayo Clinic).

• Try specific foot exercises:

  • Bend and stretch your feet up and down about 30 times.

  • Rotate each foot in circles (8 times each way) for flexibility and comfort (NHS).

• Relax with a warm soak or gentle massage. If your feet feel heavy, treat yourself to a little spa time—add Epsom salts for extra relief (Medical News Today).

• Slip into shoes that hug and breathe. Natural leather and barefoot-inspired shapes gently cradle your feet, allowing them to move freely and stretch as needed—keeping you comfortable day and night.

With these routines, every step of your pregnancy can feel a little lighter, softer, and more supported. Enjoy the journey! Earth Sole.