Shoes for Orthotics
Shoes that make room for your orthotics
An orthotic takes up space inside the shoe. In a normal shoe, your heel lifts and the top presses on your foot. Our shoes come in widths 2E to 8E, and many have removable insoles, so your orthotic sits where the insole was.
- Removable insoles
- Widths 2E to 8E
- Laces and touch-fastening straps
- Free measuring tape
What to look for
NHS orthotics and podiatry services give this advice for shoes to wear with orthotics. Use it as a checklist when you shop.
Removable insole
Take out the shoe's insole and put your orthotic in its place. This keeps the space inside the shoe the same.
Shop removable insolesDepth at the heel and sides
A deep shoe holds your heel down on the orthotic. Choose a shoe that is wide and deep enough for your foot and the orthotic together.
Shop deep fit & wide toe boxLaces or straps
A lace or touch-fastening strap holds your foot firmly on the orthotic. Laces that go well down towards the toes give the most adjustment.
Shop touch-fastening shoesClosed heel and toe
A closed shoe keeps the orthotic in place. Avoid slip-ons, mules and backless styles.
Shop women's trainersFirm heel counter
A firm back to the shoe stops your heel rolling off the orthotic and helps it work.
Shop men's trainersLow heel
Orthotics work best in a low heel. Some NHS services advise a heel of no more than 3 cm. Follow your orthotist's advice.
Find your widthBest sellers with removable insoles
These are our most popular styles with removable insoles, firm heels and secure fastenings.
Women
Shop all women's
Men
Shop all men's
Shop by type
Fit tips
Do
- Take your orthotics with you when you try on shoes.
- Remove the shoe's insole before you put the orthotic in.
- Check that your heel sits down in the shoe and does not slip.
- Check that the top of the shoe does not press on your toes.
- Use the shoe's old insole as a guide if your orthotic needs trimming.
Avoid
- Putting the orthotic on top of a thick insole in a tight shoe.
- Slip-ons, mules and backless shoes.
- High heels.
- Going up a size. Your heel slips and the orthotic moves.
- Worn-out shoes. They stop the orthotic working properly.
Wear them in slowly
NHS orthotics services advise these steps:
- Start with a short time on the first day, such as an hour.
- Add more time each day. Most people wear them all day within one to two weeks.
- A mild ache at first is common.
- If you get pain, stop and contact the person who supplied your orthotics.
Not sure what to choose?
Most shops stop at 2E. We go all the way to 8E. Measure your width, then choose the fitting that matches.
FAQs
Do I take out the shoe's insole?
Usually, yes. Most orthotics are made to replace the shoe's own insole. Take the insole out and put your orthotic in its place. This keeps the depth of the shoe the same. Ask your podiatrist or orthotist if you are not sure.
Do I need a bigger size for my orthotics?
Usually not. Keep your normal length. If the shoe feels tight over the top of your foot, choose a wider or deeper fitting instead of a longer shoe. A longer shoe lets your heel slip.
What shoes work best with orthotics?
NHS orthotics services recommend closed shoes with a lace or touch-fastening strap, a firm heel, a removable insole and a low heel. Trainers and walking shoes often work well.
Can I wear my orthotics in slip-on shoes?
It is best not to. Slip-on shoes do not hold your foot firmly on the orthotic, so your heel can lift and the orthotic cannot do its job.
How do I get used to new orthotics?
Build up slowly. Start with an hour or two on the first day and add more time each day. If you get pain, stop wearing them and contact the person who supplied them.
