7 Orthopedic Shoes To Keep Your Feet Happy & Your Body Healthy (2024)

First things first: Let's scrap the image you've conjured up of an orthopedic shoe. The best orthopedic shoes have come a long way, meaning it's actually possible to find stylish options that offer the same benefits of increased arch support and a sturdier, pain-relieving construction1.

Our panel of podiatrists agree that the best orthopedic shoes should have proper arch support and stability, and accommodate a custom orthotic—so we vetted each shoe on our list against those guidelines. We also prioritized materials, comfort, and versatility, and we've enlisted our team for hands-on testing.

Per holistic podiatrist Robert Kornfeld, DPM, true orthopedic shoes are custom-made based on a cast of your foot—but many brands now offer their own takes on "orthopedic shoes" (as featured on our list), which are less expensive and often more aesthetically pleasing.

Our favorite shoes on the list are the KLAW 528 walking shoes and the Hoka Clifton 9, but keep reading to discover if another style better suits your individual needs.

The best orthopedic shoes

My personal favorite orthopedic walking shoes, the KLAW 528 was designed by New York podiatrist, Nelly Lobkova, DPM. This chunky shoe accommodates wide feet, bunions, plantar fasciitis, and other foot issues.

Per our podiatrist’s guidelines, the KLAW 528 walking shoe features solid arch support and a removable insole (should you wish to use a custom orthotic). It has a deep heel cup and sufficient cushioning, with a sturdy construction that supports your feet with every step.

Designed to accommodate both over- and under-pronators, the Adrenaline GTS 22 is supportive, yet lightweight. We picked it primarily because of the brand's “GuideRails” technology, which keeps your foot in alignment during walks and runs.

While this shoe is a good balance of support and cushion as-is, we appreciate that you can remove the insole to insert your custom orthotics if necessary.

It's also worth mentioning that Brooks is making a respected effort toward sustainability; the company uses recycled materials (like plastic water bottles) in its designs and aim to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2040.

For a super comfortable and supportive shoe that won’t break the bank, we like Skechers’ GOwalk Joy sneakers. They’re under $75 (and often marked down to less than $50), and get rave reviews particularly for their cushion and stability.

The removable Ortholite sole is made from PU foam and aerogel, which is meant to make the shoe’s cushioning last longer. We wouldn't recommend these for heavy exercise since they are more lightweight, but they're once of the best shoes for walking or for long days on your feet.

Hoka is loved by runners and walkers—and it's one of the top recommended shoe brands from podiatrists we've interviewed. The Clifton 9 shoe waspreviously recommendedto mindbodygreen by both Kornfeld and podiatristAnne Sharkey.

We appreciate the neutral stability and balanced cushion, which creates a shoe that’s supportive but still reactive. What's more, this shoe has the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) seal of acceptance, indicating that is is beneficial for foot health.

For those who do want a more customized option, this is a great pick. In addition to having orthopedic insoles, these sneakers come with a plastic arch booster that slides under the insole (for a little extra lift), plus two insole spacers to help you find that just-right fit.

And, even with all of this extra technology, they don’t scream “I’m an orthopedic shoe!” which is a win.

The wide toe-box is what makes these a great option for people with bunions, as well as anyone with swollen feet or hammertoes. Extra cushioning in the sole and a soft, padded interior give your feet a ton of comfort and support—and the stretchy knitted upper helps these shoes mold to your specific shape.

Durable and supportive, the Integrity Walker 3’s are a great pick to wear as-is, or with custom orthotics. With a responsive and springy insole, and a sturdy leather outer, they’re suitable for anything from occasional walking to hours-long work shifts on your feet.

While they’re more affordable than other sneaker options, they have a durable design—so it’s likely you’ll get good value out of these kicks.

Worth noting: these shoes are American Podiatric Medical Association approved, but if you’re looking to solve back and knee pain specifically, it’s probably worthwhile to get a gait analysis from a podiatrist.

When it comes to shoes for support and comfort, Vionic is a go-to recommendation from podiatrists—which is no surprise since the brand actually worked with podiatrist to create its design.

The Miles Active Sneaker is a great lightweight pick for anyone who needs arch support and extra cushion. The shoe's insole is removable, and the outsole is made from a durable rubber.

Comparing the best orthopedic shoes

How we selected the best orthopedic shoes

Our team is in the process of testing the best orthopedic shoes to provide a more in-depth review of each pick, but in the meantime we interviewed a panel of podiatrists to gather their expert insight on what to look for.

We identified three key criteria when selecting the best orthopedic shoes:

When researching, we considered more than 20 options and narrowed our list down based on the above criteria, materials, comfort, and durability.

Who should wear orthopedic shoes?

"The most common reason we prescribe orthopedic shoes is for foot deformity or 'at risk' feet," explains Kornfeld. "Patients with diabetes (who suffer from peripheral vascular disease or peripheral neuropathy) and non-diabetics with peripheral vascular disease and peripheral neuropathy are considered at risk."

Even if those conditions don't apply to you, you may want to consider a pair of shoes that is designed to offer support and alleviate pain.

Most orthopedic shoes are designed for people seeking arch support, but this can vary by brand (and of course, your foot's arch). If it's a top priority for you, make sure it's called out in the shoe's design.

The orthopedic shoes on our list are a great starting point for addressing foot pain on their own or with the help of an orthotic insert—but it's always best to see a podiatrist to identify your specific needs, especially if you are experiencing any pain or discomfort.

How to choose the best orthopedic shoes

When picking out the right orthopedic shoes for you, consider your style preferences and each of the below factors:

An important note on orthopedic shoes

Keep in mind, there are plenty of off-the-shelf shoes out there that label themselves as orthopedic but might not be a total fit for your needs. "An authentic orthopedic shoe is fabricated off a cast of the patient, so all of the anatomy and contour is considered in the construction of the shoe," Kornfeld explains.

"There are companies who claim to make 'orthopedic shoes' that supposedly put the foot in its proper anatomical position for function, but there are too many variations in foot structure and function for me to feel confident that they would be fine for my patients," he adds.

The takeaway

Whether you're a walker, a runner, or someone who stands all day at work, your feet are the foundation of your body—and it's up to us to keep them happy and healthy. If you're facing pain or discomfort, or you just need more stability and support, one of the orthopedic and orthotic-friendly shoes on our list might just do the trick.

Just remember, reach out to a podiatrist if you're experiencing any concerning symptoms.