If getting out of bed each morning feels like stepping on broken glass, there’s a good chance you’re dealing with plantar fasciitis, a frustrating condition that can make every step a struggle.
The good news is that switching to orthotic-friendly shoes can make a world of difference.
Orthotic-friendly shoes combined with a supportive insert can take the pressure off where it hurts most, giving your feet the support they need to feel better and move easier. Whether designed by a podiatrist or off the shelf arch supports these inserts can help to reduce pressure by improving your body’s alignment.
What Makes a Shoe Orthotic-Friendly?
Not every shoe qualifies as orthotic friendly. So, what’s the difference?
Orthotic-friendly shoes are designed to accommodate custom insoles or orthotic inserts while still providing excellent built-in support. They usually have a deep and wide footbed, firm heel counters and removable innersoles, giving you room to personalise your comfort without compromising the shoe’s structure.
They also tend to be more stable than typical off-the-shelf shoes, reducing the risk of overpronation or excess strain on the heel and arch. For people with plantar fasciitis, this extra structure can mean far less pain and a smoother recovery.
Why Orthotic Friendly Shoes Make All the Difference
One of the key benefits of wearing orthotic-friendly shoes is the relief they provide where it matters most - your arches and heels.
Footwear designed with orthotics in mind can:
- Absorb shock to reduce pressure on the heel with every step
- Support your natural arch to avoid over-stretching the plantar fascia
- Improve overall alignment from the ground up - reducing load on knees and hips
- Help prevent the condition from worsening over time
Plus, being able to remove and swap out insoles means you’re not stuck with a one-size-fits-all approach. You can tailor the support to suit your unique foot shape or the recommendation from your podiatrist.
They’re Stylish Now, Too
If we’re being honest, comfort based shoes haven’t always had the best reputation when it comes to looks. But that’s changed in recent years.
Brands like Klouds, Revere and Cabello have reinvented what orthotic-friendly footwear looks like. You can find modern sandals, stylish sneakers and work-appropriate flats that wouldn’t look out of place in any wardrobe.
Forbes Footwear carries a curated range of these styles, perfect for anyone wanting pain relief without sacrificing style.
The right shoes make it easier to stay on your feet; whether you're doing the school run, tackling your workday or heading out for a walk.
The Benefits of Wearing Orthotic Friendly Shoes Go Beyond Pain Relief
While the main goal might be easing heel pain, the benefits of wearing orthotic-friendly shoes often go beyond that.
You may notice improvements like:
- Better posture and walking gait, thanks to more even weight distribution
- Less fatigue after long days on your feet
- Fewer aches in your legs, knees or lower back
- A reduced risk of developing other foot problems like bunions or tendonitis
In other words, you’re treating your current pain and setting your feet up for long-term comfort and health.
Don’t Guess the Fit
Finding the right orthotic friendly shoe isn’t just about the brand or style. It’s also about getting the right fit.
At Forbes Footwear, we take the guesswork out of it with professional in-store fittings. Our friendly team will assist to find your best fit and recommend the best options based on your lifestyle and support needs.
And if you’re shopping online, we’ve made it easy to filter for orthotic-friendly styles with removable insoles and arch support built in.
Foot pain shouldn’t be your normal. With over 80 years of fitting expertise, Forbes Footwear is here to help you find orthotic friendly shoes that offer genuine support, all day comfort and just the right look. Visit our Hornsby store or browse our online shop to explore trusted brands like Brooks, Klouds and New Balance.
Your feet deserve it.