Best Running Shoes for Orthotics UK (2026)

Running generates impact forces of two to three times your bodyweight with every stride. That repeated loading makes the relationship between your orthotic and your shoe far more critical than it is in everyday footwear.

Orthotics prescribed for runners typically aim to control excessive pronation, reduce loading on the plantar fascia, or redistribute pressure away from a metatarsal stress point. They do this by altering the angle and timing of how your foot contacts the ground; this only works if the shoe allows the orthotic to function as intended.

The most common mistake runners make is pairing a motion-control shoe with a controlling orthotic. Both are trying to limit pronation, and the combined effect is overcorrection: pushing the foot into supination, creating lateral ankle instability, and often causing new injuries. In the vast majority of cases, a neutral shoe provides the best base for a custom orthotic to do its job.

When selecting running shoes to use with orthotics, these features are essential:

• Removable insole: This is non-negotiable. If the factory insole is glued in, the shoe will not work with orthotics. Most major running shoe brands now use removable insoles, but always check before buying.
• Neutral last: A neutral platform allows your orthotic to provide the correction rather than the shoe duplicating or conflicting with it.
• Sufficient stack height: The midsole needs enough depth to accommodate the orthotic without raising your heel above the collar of the shoe. Look for models with generous foam stacks.
• Secure heel counter: A firm, structured heel counter prevents rearfoot slippage and keeps the orthotic seated correctly during toe-off.
• Structured upper: Avoid shoes with flimsy, ultra-thin knit uppers. These offer poor lateral support and allow the foot to drift over the orthotic. A more structured engineered mesh is preferable.
• Wide fit option: Many runners with orthotics need extra forefoot width. Brands like New Balance and Brooks offer wide and extra-wide options in most models.

We have grouped our recommendations into three categories based on terrain and support level. All models listed feature removable insoles and have been verified for orthotic compatibility.

The single most important test when fitting a running shoe with orthotics is measuring the internal depth with the factory insole removed.

Once you remove the stock insole and place your orthotic inside, you need a minimum of 3-4mm of clearance above your toes when standing. If your toes brush the upper or the shoe feels tight across the top of the foot, the shoe lacks the internal volume required.

Be particularly cautious with carbon-plated race shoes. These are designed with minimal internal volume to reduce weight, and the rigid carbon plate leaves almost no room for an orthotic. In most cases, race-day shoes like the Nike Vaporfly or ASICS Metaspeed are simply incompatible with custom orthotics. Train in orthotic-friendly shoes and accept that race shoes may require a compromise, or speak to your podiatrist about an ultra-thin race-day orthotic.

Many specialist running shops in the UK offer free gait analysis, which involves running on a treadmill while a camera records your foot strike and pronation pattern. This is a useful starting point for understanding how you run, but it is not a substitute for a podiatric assessment.

A gait analysis at a running shop can help identify whether you overpronate, supinate, or have a neutral gait, but it cannot diagnose underlying biomechanical issues, prescribe orthotics, or assess how your existing orthotics are performing.

Recommended specialist running shops that offer gait analysis:

• Runners Need: Multiple locations across London and the South East
• Up and Running: Stores across England and Wales
• Run4It: Scotland-based specialist with stores in Glasgow and Edinburgh

If you already wear orthotics, bring them to your gait analysis session so the assessment reflects how you actually run.

Running orthotics endure significantly more stress than those used in everyday shoes. Regular inspection and maintenance are essential to keep them functioning correctly.

• Inspect every 6-12 months: Check for cracks in the shell, worn top covers, and compressed foam elements. A worn orthotic may be worse than no orthotic at all, as it can create incorrect pressure points.
• Replace shoes every 400-600 miles: Even if the outsole looks fine, the midsole foam compresses with use and loses its ability to support the orthotic. A degraded midsole allows the orthotic to bottom out, reducing its effectiveness.
• Dry them properly: Remove orthotics from shoes after wet runs and allow both to air dry at room temperature. Never use direct heat such as radiators or tumble dryers, as this can warp orthotic shells and degrade adhesives.