First-Time Orthotic Wearers: How to Pick Shoes That Actually Fit Your Inserts

Your first pair of orthotics can change how you move, but only if they sit inside the right shoe.

Orthotic-friendly shoes are built to accommodate the extra depth of custom or over-the-counter inserts without squeezing your feet or compromising support. A good fit helps your orthotic do its job and stops new aches from starting. Using ordinary shoes with an insert can leave you uncomfortable and defeat the purpose of your orthotics. Here’s how to go about picking shoes that will work well with your inserts.

Understand what orthotics do

Orthotics are support devices that sit under your foot. They are designed to realign the way you walk, ease pain and support conditions such as flat feet or plantar fasciitis. You can get prescription-grade inserts moulded to your foot, or ready-made, over-the-counter arch supports.

Because orthotics add height and sometimes width inside a shoe, they change the way a shoe fits. Standard fashion sneakers or pumps don’t always have depth or a removable insole to make room for an insert. Wearing them with an insert can pinch your toes, lift your heel or make the shoe unstable. Picking footwear that’s built for inserts helps you get the benefits you paid for.

Identify the features that make shoes orthotic-friendly

A few design elements set orthotic-friendly footwear apart. Depth is important: the shoe must have a deeper footbed to allow your insert to sit flat. Next comes the toe box. A wider, higher toe box gives your toes room to spread naturally and prevents rubbing.

Look at the heel counter; this is the stiff cup around your heel. It should be firm to keep the rearfoot stable. A strong midsole with minimal twisting stops the orthotic collapsing under pressure and keeps your stride aligned. Finally, the original insole should be removable so you can slot in your insert.

A few basics keep the selection process straightforward:

• Remove the existing insole: Removable insoles create the depth needed for your orthotic to sit properly without raising your foot too high.
• Check for adequate depth: Deeper shoes prevent the insert from pushing your foot up and causing a sloppy fit.
• Choose a wide toe box: Your toes need space once an insert is in place.
• Check heel stability: A firm heel counter keeps the orthotic stable during movement.
• Limit twisting: Shoes that resist twisting help maintain the orthotic’s support.

Measure and fit your orthotics correctly

Before you shop, trace your insert on a piece of paper and measure its length and width. This gives you a reference when comparing sizes. Bring your orthotic along when trying on shoes. Take out the factory insole first. You never want to put your insert on top of it. Slip your orthotic into the shoe and then put your foot in. Walk around.

Your heel should sit snugly without lifting and there should be no pinching at the sides or toes. If the shoe still feels too tight, try a wider width rather than going up a size. For sandals, look for styles with adjustable straps to lock the insert in place. Remember that some leather shoes stretch slightly over time; a snug fit is better than a loose one that will become sloppy.

If you’re shopping online, check the product descriptions to see whether the footbed is removable and whether the shoe comes in multiple widths. Forbes Footwear’s women’s orthotic shoes collection and men’s orthotic shoes range both specify if the inner sole is removable. Always measure both feet. It’s not uncommon for one foot to be slightly larger.

If you’re ever in doubt and can’t visit the store, contact customer care.

Compare shoe styles and recommended brands

Different lifestyles call for different shoe types. The table below compares common styles so you can match your needs. All these brands are available through Forbes Footwear.

Style & purpose	Key features	Example brands	Notes
Athletic shoes	Removable insoles, multiple widths, cushioned midsoles	Hoka, New Balance, Brooks, Saucony	Great for walking or running. Many models offer depth and stable midsoles that work well with inserts.
Casual & dress shoes	Depth and removable footbeds, leather uppers, supportive soles	Hush Puppies, Nunn Bush (men), Cabello, Klouds	Look like everyday shoes but include orthotic-friendly features. Lace-ups and structured loafers are safest bets.
Sandals & slip-ons	Adjustable straps, contoured footbeds, wide base	Birkenstock, Revere	Sandals can work with inserts when they have heel straps and a deep, stable footbed.
Specialist fit	Extra-depth, multiple widths, podiatrist-designed	Aetrex, Propet	Designed specifically for inserts; great for tricky feet.

 

Running shoes with removable innersoles are an easy win for sports. But don’t ignore casual lace-ups with hidden depth. They often look like standard shoes but have orthotic-friendly features. Sandals need back straps and deep footbeds to keep inserts secure. For dress occasions, look for low heels and firm soles to support stability.

Care for your shoes and inserts

Looking after your footwear extends its life and protects your feet. Always air out your shoes after wear and remove the orthotics to let them dry. Wipe inserts with a damp cloth and mild soap; never soak them. Rotate between at least two pairs so each can dry completely.

Replace your shoes after about six to twelve months of regular use, or sooner if the sole is worn unevenly. A worn shoe loses support and can undo the work your insert is doing. If your insert creaks or slips, use thin double-sided tape under it or ask a cobbler for help. If pain returns, see a podiatrist to check whether you need new inserts or different best shoes for inserts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if a shoe is orthotic-friendly?

Orthotic-friendly shoes have a removable insole, deeper footbed and a wider, roomier toe box. Remove the factory insole and insert your orthotic; it should sit flat without forcing your foot up or making the shoe feel tight. Walk around to test stability and comfort.

Do I need to buy bigger shoes for my orthotic?

Not always. Purpose-built shoes often have extra depth, so you can wear your usual size. If your insert is thick, look for styles that come in wider widths rather than going up a full size. Trying on shoes with your orthotic is the best way to check.

Are sandals suitable for inserts?

Certain sandals work well with inserts. Look for designs with contoured footbeds and adjustable heel and ankle straps, as these features keep your orthotic in place. Klouds and Revere offer orthotic-friendly sandals but be careful with slides or minimalist styles that lack support and depth.

How often should I replace my orthotic-friendly shoes?

Orthotic-friendly shoes wear out like any other footwear. Replace them when the soles are worn down or after six to twelve months of regular use. A worn shoe loses stability and can undermine the support your orthotic provides. Rotate between pairs to extend their life.

Ready to experience comfort? Browse our collections of women’s orthotic shoes and men’s orthotic shoes or explore our innersoles and arch supports. If you’re unsure about sizing or need advice, speak to our team for personalised fitting tips.