Everything You Need To Know About Orthotics

If you’ve been into one of our stores, you may have noticed our orthotic-friendly range. For those of you familiar with their function you may want to skip straight to our shoe recommendations at the bottom. For those unfamiliar with orthotics, here’s what you need to know.

What are orthotics?

Orthotics are specially designed inserts that support the abnormal movement of the foot. They come in half and full sizes and are inserted into your shoes. 

Podiatrists differentiate between over the counter inserts and true custom orthotics. Over the counter options are more wallet friendly but usually short term solutions that offer more cushioning and comfort than they do real support. True custom-made orthotics are more expensive but are prescribed by podiatrists after a thorough examination of your condition and are moulded to the shape of your foot to offer optimal support. 

Do I need orthotics?

That is a question for a podiatrist to answer, but what we can tell you is that foot and heel pain is not normal. It usually points to an issue or abnormality in your foot that needs to be addressed. So, if that is the case with you, we would recommend getting it checked so that a podiatrist can recommend the best course of action. 

Nevertheless, if it’s simply a matter or wanting more cushioning or a little extra comfort, a store-bought insert might do the trick. Just be mindful of splurging too much money on over-the-counter devices with clever marketing and promises of ‘custom’ solutions. The only truly customised devices are those prescribed by your doctor and you may not even need them! It’s always better to check with your podiatrist first before spending time and money on orthotics.    

What types of shoes work with orthotics?

While all of our styles marked ‘orthotic-friendly’ offer removable insoles, which ones will be suited to your needs will depend on the type of insoles you have - full inserts vs heel inserts, depth and width. The finer your orthotics are the more styles they’ll fit. The chunkier your orthotics are, the more likely you are to be looking at orthopaedic shoes rather than simply orthotic-friendly shoes.  

Rollie’s styles are usually nice and wide and will have more room for orthotics than other styles. Josef Seibel are known for their comfort and if your orthotics take up more space, their styles are a good starting point.

Orthotic-friendly Shouz shoes:

1. Js-2001 White Croc Mix
2. Brenda White
3. Ronnie Black
4. Derby Punch Chalk Pink
5. Laci Copper Leopard Multi
6. Caren 01 Platinum

Further reading and resources:

https://www.neufoot.com/blog/what-are-orthotics-and-why-should-you-use-them

https://www.healthline.com/health/bone-health/orthotics

https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/what-are-shoe-orthotics