Joe Biden’s noticeable outfit change has been branded “desperate” as the 46th President bids to avoid further public embarrassment following a series of tumbles.
Greg Swenson, who chairs Republican Overseas UK, voiced his concern about the outfit switch.
He told GB News: “It’s a desperate attempt. They even have him using the short service stairs on Air Force One.”
Biden, 81, made the change after a series of falls sparked further concerns about his age and competency.
Joe Biden made a major outfit change after a series of tumbles
GETTY
The 46th President was seen wearing a pair of $150 (£117) wide sole trainers, raising speculation about the footwear assisting his public image.
White House deputy press secretary Andrew Bates rebuted the claims, insisting the 46th President used the shoe to exercise.
Shoe manufacturer Hoka described the footwear as “at the intersection of lifestyle and performance”.
Inside Edition also revealed the shoes have a “wide sole” and have the feel of “walking on air”.
American Podiatric Association endorsed the footwear after recognising the shoe is beneficial to foot health.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
The particular type of shoe - the 'Hoka Transport' - has a 'wide sole' that is 'no doubt great for stability'GETTY
Biden would presumably have been hoping stabilising shoes would help offset concerns about his health and age.
Recent opinion polls have shown a significant majority of Americans have concerns about Biden’s mental and physical stamina.
A staggering 86 per cent of Americans believe he is too old for another spell in the White House, an ABC News poll has revealed.
Biden’s age was brought into question last month after a 12-month investigation into classified documents suggested the 46th President was too old for criminal charges to be tabled.
Robert Hur’s report caused a spat with the Oval Office.
Biden’s special counsel Richard Sauber wrote: "We request that you revisit your descriptions of President Biden's memory and revise them so that they are stated in a manner that is within the bounds of your expertise and remit."
Joe Biden's age and competency is proving a problem with US voters
REUTERS
He added: "We do not believe that the report's treatment of President Biden's memory is accurate or appropriate.
"The report uses highly prejudicial language to describe a commonplace occurrence among witnesses: a lack of recall of years-old events."
Biden’s White House doctor previously revealed the President’s halting gait is the result of him suffering from “significant spinal arthritis, mild post-fracture foot arthritis and a mild sensory peripheral neuropathy of the feet”.
The 81-year-old also holds sessions with the White House’s physical therapist Dr Drew Contreras.
Speculation about Biden’s footwear also comes as his predecessor Donald Trump released his own trainer.
The 45th President unveiled his $399 (£313) “Never Surrender” high tops.