Best Shoes For Orthotics -2026
Discover brands like Hoka, Dansko, Brooks, Naot, Arcopedico, Aetrex, Joseph Seibel and Allbirds
Welcome to my guide to the best shoes for orthotics. If you’re here, chances are you’ve turned to orthotics to ease foot pain and found some relief. But now you’re facing a new challenge: finding shoes that work with your orthotics without feeling too tight or loose.
If you have ever bought a pair of shoes, only to realize they just don’t fit right once your orthotics are inside, you’re not alone. With over 30 years of experience in the footwear industry, I’ve learned I have discover the best orthotic-friendly shoes.
I’ve narrowed down the best options to give you a great fit. In this guide, you’ll find side-by-side comparisons to help you choose shoes that complement your orthotics and keep your feet comfortable.
I’ve tested many shoes for other common foot conditions, you may also like comfortable plantar fascitiis shoes, bunion feet shoes and top shoes for flat-footed women. Â View my top nurse shoes and teacher shoes for women too.
Editor’s Note: Our guide was last updated on January 5, 2026.
Top Products
(Swipe Left to View)Products |  Dansko Paisely |  Naot Papaki |  Aetrex Luna |  Hoka Clifton |  Naot Kata |  Brook Ghost |  Joseph Seibel Carin 01 |  Naot Helm |  Allbirds Wool Runner |  Arcopedico LS |
Awards | Best Shoes for Orthotics | Cute Shoes to Wear With Orthotics | Best Orthotic Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis | Best Running Shoes for Orthotics | Best Walking Shoes for Orthotic | Best Deep Shoe for Orthotics | ||||
Price | About $150 | About $189 | About $140 | About $145 | About $190 | About $155 | About $145 | About $214 | $110 at Allbirds | About $109 |
Overall Score | ||||||||||
Star Rating | ||||||||||
Pros | Removable footbed, Great stability, wide toe box, firm heel cup stabilizes foot | Removable footbed, firm heel cup, stable foundation, styles with multiple looks | Removable footbed, generous toebox, firm heel support | Removable footbed, generously cushioned midsole, good heel support, rocker bottom, | Removable footbed, firm heel counter, styles with multiple looks | Removable footbed, Superior midsole cushioing, great heel support | Removable footbed, firm heel counter, high quality leather upper, breathable | Removable footbed, firm heel counter, High quality leather, styles with multiple looks | Removable footbed, wide toe box, sustainably-minded brand, breathable upper, styles with multiple looks, washable | Removable footbed, soft knit upper, breathable, styles with multiple looks. |
Cons | Stiff out of the box, but this provides good struture - will soften over time. | Runs slightly narrow | Not a good choice for a narrow foot | May need slow break in period | Tie closure, back zipper would be easier. | May not work for high insteps. Whole sizes only. | Whole sizes only | Less stability than others on this list, whole sizes only | lacks heel cup support | |
Bottom Line | The generous depth and width in the cavity of the Paisely provide ample space for your orthotics. Your orthotics will sit securely, ensuring proper foot support and alignment. | Great for occasions that demand a touch of elegance. Dress it up and step out confidently, knowing that foot pain will no longer limit your social life. | Many women have said they can stay on their feet for longer while wearing the Aetrex Luna. Not only that, they fit their orthotics and they can start doing things they had to give up. | Just remove the insole on the Clifton, and you will have an excellent foundation for your orthotics. Clifton has a nice deep cavity, which makes it orthotic-friendly. | Few sandals are designed with a removable footbed, making it challenging to fit the orthotic comfortably and securely. | Innovative midsoles provide a plush and cushioned landing; an excellent foundation for your orthotics. | This sneaker gives off an effortless chic vibe and conveys a message of being fashionable while wearing your orthotics. | The Noats sole provides a stable base for your orthotics. It is lightweight and flexes in the right places. I like the firm heel counter because it offers excellent stability for your orthotics to do their work. | Albirds Tree Runner is a stylish, trend-right brand that works well for most orthotics. After removing their footbed, you will have a deep cavity that fits most orthotics nicely. | The Arcopedico LS does not have the rigid heel support of many others on this list, but I still like it because of its feminine, sleek design |
Rating Categories | Dansko Paisely | Naot Papaki | Aetrex Luna | Hoka Clifton | Naot Kata | Brooks Ghost | Joseph Seibel Carin 01 | Naot Helm | Allbirds Wool Runner | Arcopedico LS |
Arch Support (20%) | ||||||||||
Cushioning (20%) | ||||||||||
Breathabiliy (20%) | ||||||||||
Fits Most (20%) | ||||||||||
Weight (10%) | ||||||||||
Versatility (10%) | ||||||||||
Specs | Dansko Paisely | Naot Papaki | Aetrex Luna | Hoka Clifton | Naot Kata | Brook Ghost | Joseph Seibel Carin 01 | Naot Helm | Allbirds Wool Runner | Arcopedico LS |
Upper | Water proof leather & suede | Leather | Leather | Mesh | Leather | Mesh upper | Leather | Leather upper | Wool | Knit |
Lining | Textile | Leather | Fabric lining | Textile | Leather & textile | Textile | Leather | Textile lining | unlined | fabric |
Sole | EVA footbed, Rubber outsole | Cork & latex footbed, polyurethane outsole | Molded foam insole, hi-density responsive midsole, blown rubber outsole | Rubber outsole sole, Compression molded EVA foam midsole, textile insole | Cork & latex footbed, polyurethane outsole | Foam insole, EVA midsole, Rubber outsole | Foam insole, rubber sole | Cork & latex footbed, polyurethane outsole | EVA foam made with Sugar cane | Synthetic sole |
Width Option | Medium, Wide | Medium | Medium, Wide | Medium, wide | Medium | Narrow, Medium, Wide | Medium | Medium | Medium | Medium |
Best Shoe for Orthotics
89
Material : Leather and Suede upper Pair Weight: 26.8
why to buy
Removable footbed
Wide toe box
Superior heel stability
Excellent walking shoe
why to avoid
Stiff out of the box
Not a great choice for a narrow foot.
The Dansko Paisley has several features that make it our top choice for Best Shoes for Orthotics. After removing the footbed, you will notice the generous depth and width in the cavity, providing ample space for your orthotics. Your custom orthotics will sit securely, ensuring proper foot support and alignment. The Paisley offers a supportive and stable construction. It features a firm yet flexible sole that works harmoniously with your custom orthotics to provide optimal arch support and cushioning.
If you worry that your foot pain and orthotic journey will limit your ability to engage in your favorite physical activities, you need the Paisley. Your orthotics will be able to work their magic, ensuring proper alignment and reducing strain on your feet. Don’t be surprised if the Paisley becomes your favorite walking shoe. Many women love the sturdy, comfortable construction and return to buy again.
Don’t be deterred by the initial stiffness of this shoe, as it provides ample support and stability. Wear a couple of hours a day for the first week to let the shoes form to your orthotics. Once these shoes soften up, you’ll have a reliable and comfortable option for long periods of standing or working.Â
Cute Shoes to Wear With Orthotics
88
Material : Leather upper Pair Weight 16 oz
why to buy
Removable footbed
Firm heel cup for stability
Adjustable straps -high instep friendly
Styles with multiple looks
why to avoid
Runs slightly narrow
Finding Cute Shoes to Wear With Orthotics is challenging and it’s even harder with sandals since most don’t come with removable footbeds. But the Noat design is a friend to women with custom orthotics. The removable footbed leaves a nice opening to accommodate custom orthotics. I also like the adjustable instep strap, which allows you to cinch the strap and hold the foot in place.
I understand that having orthotics can be an obstacle to your fashion choice. The Papaki is a great shoe for events that call for heels or a touch of elegance. Slip on the Papaki and step out confidently, knowing that foot pain will no longer limit your style.
Naot has captured the hearts of shoe lovers worldwide. Made in Isreal, Naot shoes are favorites of women looking for orthopedic level shoes with modern and sophisticated style. Their unique design, quality materials, and comfort are hard to match. Naot’s commitment to providing maximum foot health allows the wearer to enjoy an unparalleled fit. Their shoes not only offer all-day comfort but also style.
Best Orthotic Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
88
Material : Leather Pair weight: 22 oz
why to buy
Removable footbed
Firm heel cup for stability
Generouse toe box
Available in wides
why to avoid
You have a narrow foot
The Aetrex Luna is an excellent choice for your orthotics. After removing the footbed, you will have a roomy cavity with generous depth and width. For this reasons it is our pick for Best Orthotic Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis. Your orthotics can sit securely in place, ensuring proper foot support and alignment.
We love the Luna for is well-designed, supportive, and stable base. It features a firm yet flexible sole that can work harmoniously with your custom orthotics to provide optimal arch support and cushioning. This combination helps prevent overpronation, promoting proper foot alignment and reducing the risk of foot pain.
This boot is seriously comfy. Even after a day of walking, the sole still feels soft, cushiony, and bouncy. The style looks even better in person than in photos, and the little details are way prettier in real life than online.
Aetrex says they have scanned millions of feet to identify the pressure points in our gait and used this data to develop their lasts. Many shoe companies buy existing lasts in the market and don’t do the research themselves. That’s why Aettrex shoes fit women with foot challenges so well.
Best Running Shoes for Orthotics
88
Material: Mesh  Pair Weight 16 oz
why to buy
Removable footbed
Generously cushioned midsole
Good heel support
Available in narrow, medium and wide
why to avoid
May need a break-in period
Running shoes can be a game-changer if you are looking for a companion for your custom orthotics. Clifton’s innovative mid-soles provide a plush and cushioned landing, even on harsh surfaces like concrete. Clifton is our selection for Best Running Shoes for Orthotics. Just remove the insole on the Clifton, and you will have an excellent foundation for your orthotics. Clifton has a nice deep cavity, which makes it orthotic-friendly.
I like the Hoka Clifton better than the Hoka Arahi for custom orthotics. The Arahi is Hoka’s stability shoe, meaning it has a great deal of arch support, but when you have custom-made orthotics, you have personalized arch support, and the extra help is not needed.
The Hoka Bondi is a viable option for your orthotics, too. The difference between the Clifton and the Bondi is in the cushioning. In fact, Bondi is Hoka’s most cushioned and least supportive shoe. It feels like you are stepping down on a giant marshmallow. It is also bulkier than the Clifton for this very reason. I think the Clifton has the best balance of cushioning and support for orthotic wearers.
It’s important to remember that your feet may need some time to adjust to Hokas; wear them for 1–2 hours a day for a week. This transition period will allow your feet and Hoka technology to get acquainted.
87
Material: Leather  Pair Weight 16 oz
why to buy
Removable footbed
Firm heel cup for stability
Styles with multiple looks
HIgh quality leather upper
why to avoid
Tie closure - back zipper would have been easier
Finding feminine flats that accommodate custom orthotics presents a unique challenge for women seeking style and support. Few shoes are designed with removable footbeds, making fitting the orthotic comfortably and securely challenging.
If you’re attending an event that usually calls for heels, the Kata is a good choice that will look good and not out of place. Feel confident and pain-free with Naot’s fashionable and functional flat. Kata is available in a range of leather colors and finishes, allowing you to express your style while enjoying the benefits of custom orthotics. The Kata can complement various outfits and occasions whether you prefer a casual or more dressy look.
Naot is a beloved shoe brand captivating shoe enthusiasts across the globe. Crafted in Israel, Naot shoes are adored by women seeking orthopedic-level support and contemporary sophistication. With their distinctive design, premium materials, and unbeatable comfort, Naot sets the bar high.
Naot is a beloved shoe brand captivating shoe enthusiasts across the globe. Crafted in Israel, Naot shoes are adored by women seeking orthopedic-level support and contemporary sophistication. With their distinctive design, premium materials, and unbeatable comfort, Naot sets the bar high.
Best Walking Shoes for Orthotics
84
Material: Mesh  Pair Weight 20.2 oz
why to buy
Removable footbed
Superior mid-sole cushioning
Great heel support
Available in narrow, medium, wide
why avoid
Not as trendy as Hoka
Running shoes can be a best friend if you’re a woman with orthotics. Designed to tackle the challenges of running on harsh surfaces like concrete, they can work like magic when you slip in your orthotics. This, combined with it’s generous cavity, make Clifton is our top pick for Best Walking Shoes for Orthotics. After the insole or footbed comes out, you will have a nice, roomy, level sole in the shoe cavity to place your orthotics.
I like Ghost shoes for orthotics because they don’t have a lot of contoured support built into the sole. This makes it a “neutral” shoe, meaning no extra arch support exists. A level surface like this makes it ideal for orthotics; they work without other supports getting in the way.
The Brook Ghost has a nice amount of cushioning in the midsole, so when you step down, there is a nice cushy feeling. The Ghost could be your ultimate comfort and support. Many women have experienced a renewed ability to do the things they love, all thanks to the relief from heel pain in the shoe.
The Ghost is available in narrows, mediums, wides, and extra wides, but they also have a wide range of sizes from 5 to 13. So, you will likely be a great fit, no matter your foot length or width.
84
Material: Leather  Pair Weight 20 oz
why buy
Removable footbed
Firm heel cup support
Breathable upper
why to avoid
Whole sizes only
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The Joseph Seibel Caren leather sneaker is a top-notch option for women with orthotics seeking a blend of high-quality materials, firm heel support, and customized comfort.
The sole of the Caren shoes is very flat without any contoured arch support. Since the sole is not contoured, you have a blank slate for your custom orthotics to work their magic when you remove the insoles. The Carin shoe has a firm heel part that will keep your orthotics from moving.
This sneaker gives off an effortless chic vibe and conveys a message of being fashionable while wearing your orthotics. That will leave you feeling confident and stylish wherever you go.
84
Material: Leather  Pair Weight 20 oz
why to buy
Removable footbed
Firm heel cup support
Styles with multiple looks
why to avoid
Whole sizes only
The Naot Helm boot is extremely orthotic-friendly. Although they come with a suitable footbed, it is removable and leaves a nice opening for your orthotics. As you probably know, there is never a guaranteed fit with orthotics, but the Helm will have a great chance of working due to the depth of the cavity.
The Noats sole provides a stable base for your orthotics. It is lightweight and flexes in the right places. I like the firm heel counter because it offers excellent stability for your orthotics to do their work.
If you feel self-conscious about wearing shoes that appear bulkier or less aesthetically pleasing due to the custom orthotics’ presence, you won’t be in the Naot Helm. They nicely conceal your orthotics while keeping you looking modern and confident.
Best Deep Shoes for Orthotics
83
Material : Wool Pair Weight: 14 oz
why to buy
Removable footbed
Breathable upper
Sustainably-minded brand
Wide toe box
why to avoid
Less heel suppot than other on this list
Whole size only
 The Allbirds Wool Runner is our pick for Best Deep Shoes for Orthotics. Thankfully, up-and-coming brands are making trend-right shoes that work for orthotics. This San Francisco brand puts sustainability first in its product development, all while making comfy, orthotic-friendly shoes.
Albirds Wool Runner is a stylish, trend-right brand that works well for most orthotics. After removing their footbed, you will have a deep cavity that fits most orthotics nicely.
The shoe has less heel support and stability than others on our list. But they are long on style. Trust me, your in-the-know friends will be impressed when you step out in a pair of Allbirds sneakers.
The wool upper is super fine and cozy. The wool is soft and itch-free on the inside and durable on the outside.
82
Material : Knit upper Pair Weight: 14 oz
why to buy
Removable footbed
Knit upper
Breathable upper
Styles with multiple looks.
why to avoid
Lacks heel heel support
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and support with Arcopedico’s LS shoes. The removable footbed leaves an excellent deep opening for most custom orthotics. This unique design combines a shoe’s functionality with a sock’s cozy feel. The soft-knitted upper and velvet smooth microfiber lining ensures a seamless and free range of movement for your feet.
The Arcopedico LS does not have the rigid upper or heel support of many others on this list, but I still like it because of its feminine, sleek design. Sometimes, shoes that accommodate orthotics are big and bulky. Although functional, they may not be appropriate for refined dressing. Don’t wear Arcopedico LS for a hike or long walk with your girlfriends; others on this list are better. But the Arcodedico LSi is just right for the office, book club or casual chic dinner dressing.
Why We Are Trustworthy
I am Mary Sue Papale, the brains behind Trusty Shoe Guide, and I wrote this Best Shoe for Orthotics guide. I’m a shoe enthusiast and have racked up quite a few years in the business (over 30 years), so rest assured, I have the right to call myself an expert!
While in the footwear business, I learned what makes a shoe comfy and orthotic friendly. It’s all about the appropriate amount of space in the cavity that the type of structure without the existing insole. I also like breathability in a shoe. Spotting these things is only possible if you have a trained eye, but they’re crucial to comfort and getting the right fit.
I have wear-tested each shoe in this guide as well. Additionally, I studied 100+ online reviews from other women to consider different opinions to formulate this top list. I also did extensive research to ensure my recommendations aligned with the insights of podiatrists and orthopedic specialists.
 This comprehensive guide breaks down into six metrics:
- Arch support (20% weighting)
- Cushioning (20% weighting)
- Breathability (20% weighting)
- Ease of fit (20% weighting)
- Versatility (10% weighting)
- Weight (10% weighting)
After spending years working with shoe factories all over the globe – Italy, Mexico, Brazil, China, and even right here in the US – I’ve picked up a lot of knowledge about how shoes get made. I’ve seen enough to know which brands are worth your hard-earned money.
All this shoe love and experience led me to create Trusty Shoe Guide. I’m super excited to share everything I’ve learned with all of you comfort-loving, modern women. Have a look through and find your perfect pair. After all, nothing beats a comfy shoe!
More about Trusty Shoe Guides
More about our founder.
Testing and Analysis
Arch Support for Orthotics
When choosing shoes for your orthotics, support should be top of mind. It is important to remember that even if your orthotics are super supportive, they will only work if your shoes provide enough support as well. We like shoes with ample room in the toe box, a sturdy heel counter, generous depth at the heel and an firm but flexible upper material. These features will accommodate custom and prefabricated orthotics, offering you the comfort and stability you need.
We have a two shoes that received our highest marks for orthotic support. You can count on Dansko Paisley and Aetrex Luna for orthopedic level support.
Support rating by Shoe
A shoe’s heel counter is an essential anchor for your orthotic. With this sturdy foundation, your feet can experience the full benefits of your orthotics. This firmness is crucial because heel stability is vital to supporting and correcting your gait and reducing overpronation.
Cushioning and Orthotics
Best Shoes For Orthotics – If you want to step up your comfort game when wearing orthotics, choose shoes that have nicely cushioned bottoms. Midsole compounds that provides bounce and recovery will provide the best comfort and support. Your feet will thank you for the additional support these midsoles provide.
Besides a soft landing for your feet – they also absorbs shock. Think of it as a mini Tempurpedics for your feet. With adequate cushioning, the impact from walking or running spreads out, so your feet, ankles, knees, and legs don’t bear the brunt of it. Plus, cushioning helps to keep your posture in check and promotes proper alignment. You will experience increased comfort, reduced pain, and improved foot health overall by incorporating sufficient cushioning in your shoes.
The Hoka Clifton earned our highest rating for cushioning. The innovative midsole provides a plush and cushioned landing. The responsive foam feels spongy yet supportive on the foot.
Cushioning Rating by Shoe
For our orthotic rankings in this category we look for midsole compounds that are cushioned yet rebound quickly. We like compounds that are sensitive to pressure because they molds to the shape of your orthotics.
Breathability and Orthotics
Let’s talk about why breathability is a must-have feature in comfortable shoes for women with orthotics. When we speak about breathability, we’re referring to how well the shoe materials allow air to circulate, creating a comfortable and well-ventilated environment for your feet. Think about everything from the uppers to the linings and insoles. Best Shoes For Orthotics, Breathable materials allow moisture and heat to escape meaning no rubbing, blisters, or smelly feet.
Scientific studies show that wearing shoes that don’t allow your feet to breathe properly can actually lead to pesky fungal infections or athlete’s foot. Shoes made with breathable materials like leather, mesh, cotton, or open-cell compounds keep your feet nice and cool, and help prevent those unwanted side effects.
We like uppers made of leather with leather linings, or fabric or mesh uppers for complete air circulation. Allbirds Wool Runner and Josef Seibel Caren 01 top our list. These shoes use breathable uppers and linings.
Breathability Rating by Shoe
Buying shoes online can feel like you are flying blind, but I’ve got you covered. We’ve done all the research and compared the breathability levels of different shoe types, so you don’t have to guess. With over 30 years of experience in shoes, we know how to tell if the lining, insole, and uppers will provide relief from perspiration. Trust me; you won’t find this level of analysis anywhere else.
Versatility and Orthotics
Investing in versatile and comfortable shoes is a smart move that can transform your wardrobe and save you money in the long haul. No need to hoard a ton of shoes for every occasion – by choosing shoes you can wear for multiple occasions, you can build a smaller, carefully selected shoe collection that effortlessly suits any event or outfit.
Whether it’s a casual day out in jeans or leggings or an elevated, smart-casual looking for dinner or a more upscale event with a casual dress or skirt, the right pair of comfortable shoes can elevate your look while keeping you comfortable all day. Ankle boots, cute ballet flats and chic sneakers are the ultimate examples of this. They effortlessly transition from day to night, from work to social gatherings, making them a must-have in your wardrobe. Their timeless appeal and adaptability to different styles make them the ultimate companions for any occasion.
Our top picks in this category are the Naot Helm, Naot Papaki, Arcopedico LS and Naot Kata. All of these will be your comfortable shoes that can be dressed up and still allow for orthotics.
Whether it’s a casual day out in jeans or leggings or an elevated, smart-casual looking for dinner or a more upscale event with a dress or skirt, the right pair of comfortable shoes can elevate your look while keeping you comfortable all day. Ankle boots and cute ball flats are the ultimate examples of this. They effortlessly transition from day to night, from work to social gatherings, making them a must-have in your wardrobe. Their timeless appeal and adaptability to different styles make them the ultimate companions for any occasion.
Versatility Rating by Shoe
That’s precisely why we made sure to consider versatility in our rankings. We all know how challenging it can be to find comfortable shoes, but finding ones that perfectly match more than just jeans? Now, that’s even tougher.Â
Our ratings, which focus on three categories 1) denim and leggings, 2) smart casual dressing, and 3) dresses and skirts. Our top ranked shoes are versatile enough to match all three of these styles.
How do you choose which shoes to recommend?
Our team of experts researches and tests various shoes based on factors such as comfort, durability, design, cushioning, breathability, and price. We aim to recommend shoes that provide the best in the categories.
Can I trust your shoe reviews?
Absolutely. Our reviews are based on thorough research, personal testing, and feedback from real customers. We strive to provide honest and unbiased information to help you make informed decisions.
What if I have a problem with a pair of shoes I bought through your site?
While we don't handle customer service for the retailers we partner with, we recommend reaching out to the retailer directly for any issues related to your purchase. However, we're always here to help guide you through the process if needed.
