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WALK STORIES   |   WALKHERO   |   OCT 28, 2022

Best Orthopedic Shoes for Women in 2022

If I were to say "women’s orthopedic shoes", some of you may automatically picture an ugly style clog or clunky shoe that is less than attractive. And there was a time that the podiatrist recommended shoes were not very pretty! But times have changed and shoes for problem feet have too! You can now get a ton of fashionable choices and styles from WALKERO. 

What Actually Is An Orthopedic Shoe?

In a word, Ortho shoes are ones that have been designed to support the foot and leg in order for it to be in the most comfortable position for walking. Similarly, they usually have a hard sole to be supportive, a removable lining—so that you can add your own special insoles if needed, come in different widths—for comfort and to accommodate different foot problems, and a firm heel counter (that’s the bit that envelopes the heel of your foot).

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What to Look for in the Best Orthopedic Shoes for Your Needs?

  • Structure: Had better not choose styles made with material that’s too soft or flexible, as proper structure keeps the foot in the optimal position.
  • Comfort: Comfortable women’s shoes are key. Similarly, trying on orthopedic shoes at home by walking on a clean surface for several minutes to get a real feel for the fit. That is to say unsure about the comfort, you can simply send them back and try another pair.
  • Arch Support: A shoe with arch support is super important for any shoes that you buy, orthopedic or otherwise. It is imperative to have proper shoes that support your feet. Arch support, sufficient cushioning and proper insoles not only ensure adequate shoe support, but they also can absorb any pain-inducing pounding your feet endure day in and day out.
  • Adequate Toe Box: This is crucial. Ill-fitting and constricting shoes cause and aggravate a lot of problems. Shoes should provide a good balance transfer between heel strike and toe off.
  • Adequate Heel Cup: This feature helps with stability. And the heel cup should provide good depth that cradles the foot and therefore provides stability.
  • The Right Size: You wouldn’t believe how many people buy shoes that are the wrong size. Because adding that many foot problems are caused by shoes that don’t fit well, whether they’re too long, too short or too tight. Some patients need custom-molded shoes with extra-heel depth or arch supports, which can be prescribed by your doctor.

How Should I Choose the Best Orthopedic Shoes for Women?

Orthopedic shoes provide firm and comfortable support to equally disperse bodyweight without one area of the foot absorbing more than its share, which can lead to pain, injury and avoidable foot problems. “Orthopedic shoes are specifically designed to provide extra support and stability to alleviate stress and pain from the structure of the foot up through the ankle, leg, even hips and your back,” explains Dr. Brad Schaeffer, DPM, board-certified foot surgeon at Sole Podiatry NYC and star of TLC’s “My Feet Are Killing Me.”

  • Features Inside an Orthopedic Shoe

A few key elements on the inside of a shoe can make all the difference in the world. First, your orthopedic-friendly shoes should provide adequate support, support your foot’s arch, and provide enough room for your toes to move around. In the same vein, the room is especially important. As shoes that are too tight can cause joint issues, irritation, and calluses over time. In a word, every person’s feet are different, and it is important to take steps to make sure your shoes accommodate your specific needs.

If you can’t seem to find the perfect pair of shoes, orthopedic inserts for your existing shoes may be a perfect compromise. Certain flat inserts can help with toe pain, and custom-made heel lifts can help treat plantar fasciitis, just to name a few. There is undoubtedly an insert out there to help remedy your pain.

  • Exterior Orthopedic Shoe Features

Moreover, in addition to the parts of the shoe that touch your feet, the areas on the outside of your shoes are important too! Look for shoes made with breathable materials if you’re going to use them in warm conditions. Choose shoes with a bottom made with a tread that grips well in wet and dry conditions alike.

  • Consider Specialized Shoes

Lastly, it’s important to do your homework before buying your first pair of orthopedic-friendly shoes. Many major footwear brands offer versions of their standard designs that offer some additional support, but they may not be truly specialized. Keep an eye out for companies that have a trusted reputation for quality, well-designed orthopaedic shoes. In addition, if you’re still unsure of exactly what you need, we are here to help.

Our Picks for the 4 Best Women’s Orthopedic Shoes

#1 Best Orthopedic Shoes for Walking

While not currently considered orthopedic by a medical standard, WALKHERO specializes in creating comfortable footwear with anatomically correct arch support. Over time, they use your body heat to mold to your exact foot shape. Consequently you get a custom fit, no matter what kind of arch you have. This helps prevent and relieve plantar fasciitis and heel pain. The sneaker style is one of our most popular styles. Featuring its thickest midsole giving it bottomless cushioning for ultimate comfort.


What reviewers say:"I am throwing away all of my golf shoes and use this walkhero's arch fit from now on. They are very comfortable and cushy. I have always had issues with my achilles and my ankles. And it has not been easy for me to find the right shoes. I have wasted a lot of money buying those expensive golf shoes that did not give me support. This one fits really well and provides the arch support that my feet need."

Shop Women's Walking Shoes with Arch Support for Plantar Fasciitis

#2 Best Orthopedic Slip-on Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis 

You’ll find WalkHero’s signature EVA foam footbed with arch support in these stylish slip-ons, which are great for everything from running errands to traveling. Above all, their wide toe box makes them a versatile pick for anyone dealing with bunions and hammertoes. And the 1.88-inch platform gives you a bit of a lift with zero drop.

Plus, these cute shoes with arch support are made of eco-conscious materials. And with each purchase, one dollar will be donated to Soles4Souls. We turns unwanted shoes and clothing into opportunities by keeping them from going to waste and putting them to good use.


What reviewers say:"Comfort walking around the house again! The shoes are very comfortable with great arch support to wear around the house. Most importantly, it's very easy to forget that your aren't wearing a pair of comfortable shoes... Then walk outside in them."

Shop Women's Canvas Loafers with Arch Support for Plantar Fasciitis

#3 Best Orthopedic Slide

An open-back slip-on shoe is ideal to keep by the door and slide on at a moment’s notice. Our WALKHERO slide doesn’t sacrifice stability for ease. Deep heel cupping provides structure and the molded footbed has orthotic-grade arch support. For example, one reviewer who has been wearing orthotics since having foot surgery dubs them “supremely comfortable,” and maintains they were game-changing for her feet.


What reviewers say:“Finding comfortable shoes is difficult and finding comfortable slippers is even harder. I ordered these to use as house slippers thinking that the arch support and metatarsal dome might make these suitable. I cannot express how incredibly comfortable these are. In short, they fit securely on my feet and they are the first shoes or slippers I have ever worn that don’t give me pain after an hour or so.” 

Shop Women's Canvas Slippers with Arch Support for Plantar Fasciitis

#4 Best Orthopedic Sandals

WALKHERO offers the perfect mix of function and comfort with these beach-ready walking sandals. The compression-molded EVA midsole contours to the shape of your feet and helps absorb shock. At the meantime, the water-resistant straps and rubber outsole make them ideal for hanging by the water. Even better, these cute summer sandals come in 2 gorgeous shades.


What reviewers say: “I purchased 2 pairs one to wear in the house and the other to wear outside. I have plantar fasciitis so I need the arch support all the time. Because having dogs requires me to go in and out of the house several times a day, so I wanted something I could easily slip on and off. These flip-flops offer great support and are very comfortable. When the time comes to replace them I will purchase these again.”

Shop Women's Adjustable Sandals with Arch Support for Plantar Fasciitis

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