I hope you can help me find some summer shoes and sandals. I have flat feet and wear custom orthotics. In addition I have a very weak ankle from multiple sprains that needs as much support as possible to prevent pain. And for the icing on the cake I wear a size 5 or 35. Please help! The hot weather has arrived on MD and I can't wear laced boots any more.
Amy in MD.
Dear Amy,
From diminutive size five feet to "solid-foundation" size 12, every woman deserves a comfortable shoe that fits well, supports the foot and looks good while doing so. There's nothing we love more here at BarkingDogShoes.com than a shoe challenge as it motivates us to discover and feature footwear that we might have otherwise overlooked. In your case, we've focused on size, ability to accommodate a custom orthotic and support for your ankles. Here's what we found:
Shoe options:
Clark's Wave.Cruise: The Wave collection is one of Clark's newest offererings with plenty of comfort technologies. Removable Ortholite footbed allows the use of custom orthotics. Rocker heel and toe-off support make for a comfortable walking experience. Sturdy adjustable strap provides support for ankle. Carries Seal of Acceptance from American Podiatric Medical Associaton. Available in sizes 5-12 and in three widths for $100 from Zappos.
Merrell Circuit MJ Breeze: We're huge fans of the Merrell Q-form footbed with its ability to align feet, knees, hips during the stride. But Kirsten has been known to take out the insole in her beloved Merrell Sirens and put in her custom orthotics on her bad foot days. The breathable mesh makes this comfortable shoe a perfect summer option. Sizes 5-11 for $85 at Zappos.
Privo Lindie: Not all Privo shoes come with a removable insole, but the Lindie does. In fact a few customers comment on how comfortable they are with AND without their custom orthotics. The adjustable closure provides a customized fit for extra support around weak ankles. On sale for $75 @ Zappos.
Munro American Tess: A slightly dressier option, the Tess comes in sizes 4-14, 4A-EE! This quality-made shoe has a removable contoured footbed to accommodate orthotic and a lightweight, durable and shock-absorbing outsole. $180 @ Zappos.
Sandal options:
Naot Paris: It's difficult to find a good-looking sandal with a removable footbed, but Naot has perfected this rare feature. Yet customers state they often don't need their orthotics because of the fabulous support already offered by the anatomical latex/cork footbed. The adjustable instep strap will help secure these sandals and support the ankles. The Paris comes in euro sizes 35-42. $138 @ Zappos.
Ecco Charm Sandal: Adjustable, durable yet lightweight, removable footbed. One customer states that she uses a black footie sock to cover her bright blue orthotic so it will match the shoes. Great idea! Available in euro sizes 35-42 for $120 @ Zappos.
Two dressier options to consider if you can get by without orthotics: Romika Maui 112 and Romika Maui 01. Customers state the Maui style provides incredible support for a stylish dress sandal even though the footbed is not removable. One lady mentions how she has no problems whatsoever with her weak ankles and pronation problems when wearing her Romika Mauis.
