Work Shoes for Orthotic Wearers in the UK

Trainers are, by design, the most orthotic-friendly shoe type. They have removable insoles, firm heel counters, adjustable lacing, and generous depth. Work shoes, by contrast, are often built to a different set of priorities: appearance, dress codes, and industry standards.

The result is that many work shoes are too shallow, have fixed insoles, narrow toe boxes, and no adjustable fastening. Finding a work shoe that accommodates orthotics requires more effort, but compatible options do exist across every dress code and industry.

If your workplace requires smart or business footwear, focus on the following styles:

• Lace-up Oxford or Derby shoes: the most compatible smart shoe type. Derby shoes (open lacing) tend to be more accommodating than Oxfords (closed lacing) because the tongue opens wider. Look for models with removable insoles and extra depth.
• Lace-up court shoes (women): some brands offer smart court-style shoes with a low block heel (under 3 cm), a removable insole, and enough depth. These are harder to find but do exist in specialist ranges.
• Smart loafers with hidden lacing or elastic: a few brands offer hybrid designs that look like loafers but have lace or elastic adjustment across the instep.

Avoid: traditional slip-on loafers (no adjustment), pointed-toe shoes (too narrow), and anything with a heel over 4 cm.

If your job requires safety-rated footwear, orthotic compatibility is achievable but you need to look in the mid-to-high price range:

• Safety boots with removable insoles: many mid-range and premium safety boots come with removable footbeds. Check before you buy, as budget safety boots almost always have glued-in insoles.
• Extra-depth and wide-fit safety footwear: some manufacturers produce safety boots and shoes specifically designed with extra internal volume to accommodate orthotic devices.
• Employer's occupational health support: under the Equality Act 2010, your employer has a duty to make reasonable adjustments for a disability or health condition. This can include allowing you to wear alternative safety footwear that accommodates your orthotic, or providing a budget for compatible safety boots.

Nurses, carers, teachers, retail staff, and others who spend long hours on their feet have specific needs that go beyond just fitting an orthotic. Your shoes need to support you through a full shift.

Look for these features in addition to the standard orthotic compatibility checklist:

• Midsole cushioning: firm enough for the orthotic to work properly, but with enough shock absorption for hours of standing and walking on hard floors.
• Heel support: a firm heel counter is essential when you are on your feet all day.
• Non-slip sole: critical in healthcare, catering, and other environments with wet or slippery floors.
• Breathable upper: mesh or perforated leather helps manage moisture during long shifts.

Healthcare clogs are popular in clinical settings, but many have fixed insoles. Always check whether the footbed is removable before assuming a clog will work with your orthotic.

My employer has a strict dress code. Do I have the right to wear different shoes?

Under the Equality Act 2010, your employer must make reasonable adjustments if you have a disability or health condition that requires you to wear specific footwear. A letter from your orthotist or GP explaining why you need orthotic-compatible shoes is usually sufficient to arrange an exemption or modification to the dress code.

Can I request to wear trainers at work for my orthotics?

Yes. With a supporting letter from your orthotist or GP, this can be framed as a reasonable adjustment under the Equality Act 2010. Many employers are more accommodating than people expect, particularly when presented with medical evidence.

Do safety shoes with removable insoles exist?

Yes. They are more common in the mid-to-high price range. Budget safety boots typically have glued-in insoles, but many brands in the £70 and above range offer removable footbeds as standard.

My orthotics only seem to work in trainers. Does that mean I cannot wear them to work?

Not necessarily. Ask your orthotist about a slimmer secondary device designed specifically for shallower work shoes. Some orthotists can provide a thinner version that sacrifices a small amount of correction for a better fit in smart footwear.

For more on what makes any shoe compatible, see our features checklist.

Browse our full Orthotic Shoe Buyer Guide for more detailed advice on every aspect of buying shoes for orthotics.