What Makes a Shoe ‘Orthotic-Friendly’?

At Geelong Orthotics, we assess, fabricate and fit custom orthotic devices to help patients move better, feel better, and live more comfortably. But the effectiveness of an orthotic doesn’t stop at the device itself, it depends heavily on the shoe it’s placed in.

That’s why at Geelong Footwear, is focused on providing shoes that work with your orthoses. Together, we ensure patients receive a complete solution, from assessment to fitting and footwear.

1. Removable Insoles

Orthotic-friendly shoes must have removable factory insoles. This allows your custom orthotics to sit flat and function properly. If the original insole is glued in or too thin, it can distort the fit and reduce the orthotic’s effectiveness.

Tip: Always bring your orthotics when trying on new shoes.

2. Adequate Depth

Shoes need enough internal depth to accommodate the orthotic without crowding your foot. Shallow shoes can cause heel slippage, toe pressure, or discomfort—especially if your orthotics include heel lifts or forefoot padding.

Geelong Footwear stocks extra-depth options designed specifically for orthotic use.

3. Supportive Structure

Orthotic-friendly shoes should have:

• Firm heel counters

• Stable midsoles

• Minimal torsion

These features help the orthotic work with the shoe to support your foot and improve alignment. Soft, flexible shoes may feel comfortable short-term but can undermine long-term stability.

4. Correct Width

Shoes that are too narrow can compress the foot and distort the orthotic. Many patients need wide or extra-wide options to accommodate both foot shape and orthotic volume.

At Geelong Footwear, we offer a range of widths to suit different needs, from slim feet to broad forefeet.

5. Secure Fastening

Laces, straps, or zippers help keep the foot and orthotic in place. Slip-on shoes often lack the adjustability needed for a secure fit, especially if your orthotics change the internal shape of the shoe.

Tip: Velcro or zip options are ideal for patients with arthritis or dexterity challenges.

Why It Matters

Wearing orthotics in the wrong shoes is like putting high-performance tyres on a misaligned car, it won’t drive well.

At Geelong Orthotics, we take a whole-body approach to care. And through Geelong Footwear, we ensure every patient has access to shoes that support their orthotic needs and goals, whether for work, sport, or everyday life.