: Older adults have decreased control of body balance with aging and are prone to fall. As the primary point of contact between the human body and the ground, Footwear is critical for the stability of older adults. The relationship between shoe characteristics and the stability of older adults was systematically reviewed to determine the effect or ,of footwear characteristics on the stability of older adults. Wearing shoes with shoelaces or velcro, low heels, and wide outsole, appropriate soles，vibrating insoles and arch support insoles can help the elderly improve their stability; excessive spring and low hardness of sole may have adverse effects on the stability of the elderly. This study can provide a theorical reference for the elderly to choose shoes reasonably and for the manufacturers to design and make shoes to prevent falls.