Where to Buy Orthotic-Friendly Shoes in the UK

Yes, but with caveats. Major high-street shoe retailers stock shoes that are compatible with orthotics, but they rarely label them as such. Staff aren't typically trained to advise on orthotic compatibility, so you'll need to assess each shoe yourself.

Bring your orthotic with you and apply the seven-feature checklist to every shoe you consider. Check for a removable insole, firm heel counter, adjustable fastening, enough depth, a wide toe box, a low heel, and a stable sole.

The high street works well for people with thinner, over-the-counter insoles or slim custom devices. If you wear a thicker custom orthotic, standard high-street shoes may not have enough depth. A specialist retailer will serve you better.

Specialist retailers focus on footwear for people who need extra depth, wider fittings, or removable insoles. They stock ranges that are purpose-built for orthotic compatibility, and their staff are trained to help.

The main advantages:

• Expert advice on your specific device: staff can assess your orthotic and recommend shoes that match its shape, thickness, and rigidity.
• Hard-to-find widths: specialist retailers commonly stock EE, EEE, and wider fittings that you won't find on the high street.
• Extra-depth ranges: shoes specifically designed for thicker orthotic devices without compromising fit.
• Flexible returns and fitting adjustments: many specialists will work with you to get the fit right, and their returns policies tend to be more generous.

Yes, particularly if you've already found a shoe that works and need to reorder, or if you live somewhere without specialist retailers nearby.

When shopping online for orthotic-compatible shoes:

• Use specific search terms: filter for "extra depth," "wide fit," or "removable insole" to narrow results to shoes that are more likely to be compatible.
• Check the returns policy carefully: you may need to try multiple sizes or styles before finding the right one.
• Order your adjusted size: remember that you will likely need to go up half to one full size to accommodate your orthotic. See our guide on what shoe size to buy with orthotics.
• Read reviews that mention orthotics: other orthotic wearers often leave detailed reviews about fit, depth, and removable insoles.

The NHS provides orthotic devices (insoles, AFOs, and similar) free of charge when prescribed. However, the NHS doesn't routinely provide shoes to go with them.

There are exceptions. The NHS may provide prescribed bespoke footwear when no commercially available shoe can accommodate the patient's device or foot shape. This typically applies to people with substantial foot deformity, diabetic foot complications on specific clinical pathways, or other complex needs.

If bespoke footwear is prescribed, it's provided free through the orthotics department. If you think you might qualify, ask your orthotist or podiatrist directly. They can advise on whether a referral is appropriate for your situation.

How do I find a specialist orthotic shoe retailer near me?

Ask your NHS orthotist, podiatrist, or GP. They will usually know of local specialist retailers and can recommend ones that other patients have found helpful.

Can a shoe repair shop modify my shoes to fit orthotics?

A cobbler can make minor adjustments (stretching the width slightly, adding a heel grip). But they can't add a removable insole to a glued-in shoe or increase the internal depth. That fundamental compatibility needs to be built in from the start.

Is it worth paying more for orthotic-compatible shoes?

Often, yes. A well-made compatible shoe lasts longer, supports your orthotic properly, and saves you money on replacements. See our guide on the cost of orthotic shoes in the UK for a full breakdown.

I live in a rural area with no specialist shops nearby. What are my options?

Online specialist retailers with generous returns policies are your best bet. Many offer free returns and telephone or video consultations to help you find the right fit remotely.

Buying for a child? Finding children's orthotic shoes involves different retailers and considerations. Read our guide on where to buy children's orthotic shoes in the UK.

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