Published on February 13th, 2024 | by Kirsten Borrink
85 Stylish Orthotic Friendly Sandals with Removable Footbeds
Are you tired of wearing sneakers and closed-toe shoes all summer long just because you must wear doctor-prescribed orthotics?
We hear you and we’re here to help. While we’re tempted to simply recommend a Birkenstock or Vionic sandal since both offer excellent orthotic-like support, we understand the importance of sticking to a doctor’s order to wear orthotic-friendly sandals to remedy your foot issue whatever it may be: over-pronation, supination, planter fasciitis, Morton’s neuroma. Keep in mind that it can be tricky to get a perfect fit when using a custom orthotic in a sandal. You may have to trim the orthotic a bit or order a larger size sandal.
Is it still a sandal with a closed heel? We say yes because you can still show off a great pedicure. The Naot Papaki features a removable footbed with ability to accommodate an orthotic and keep it secure.
A happy Zappos customer says this about her new orthotic-friendly sandals:
Fit was true to size. I took out the insole and replaced it with my orthotics. The sandals were tan and my orthotic is lined in black- so there’s that: tan sandal with a black insole. I should have ordered a black sandal, I guess. I was amazed at how well the orthotic is hidden! How wonderful it is not to have to clomp around in running shoes in warm weather. These sandals are extremely comfortable. I am going to order a second pair!
Find the Naot Papaki in euro sizes 35-43 (4-12) for $189.95 from Naot.com, Zappos, and Nordstrom.
The Orthofeet Paloma is no frills on the outside but has some serious comfort technology going on in the inside. We highly recommend watching the video from podiatrist Dr. Splichal below the sandal description here. The Paloma features a removable footbed and can accommodate a custom orthotic, but you may find the original support to be perfect as is. Each pair comes with an additional arch booster which can be inserted under the footbed for enhanced arch support. Find the Orthofeet Paloma in sizes 5-12, medium and wide widths for $104.95 from Orthofeet.com.
If you’re looking for a budget AND orthotic friendly sandal, take a look at the Propet June. The insole is removable and footbed deep enough to accommodate most orthotics. Two adjustable straps provide a custom fit across narrow to wide feet. Find the Propet June in sizes 6-11, medium to extra wide width for $89.95 from Zappos, and Amazon.
Finn Comfort continues to handcraft their footwear in Germany and the Gomera sandal is a classic. The footbed is amazing in its own right with metatarsal and arch support, plus a deep heel cup–but it is removable and accommodates most orthotics well. The rest of the sandal is equally as functional with its four-point adjustability and rocker motion outsole. The Finn Comfort Gomera is available in euro sizes 36-42 (5.5-11) for $285 from Zappos, Amazon, and The Walking Company.
Another enclosed-heel sandal for the win! The Revere Geneva gets high marks from orthotic users as the footbed is removable and allows ample room for a custom orthotic. Revere customer Jenni raves:
Great fit, colours, adjustable velcro for straps. Can wear my orthotics easily. Have other Revere shoes but love these the best!
The Revere Geneva comes in seven colors, sizes 5-12, medium and wide widths for $169.95 from RevereShoes.com. Use code BARKINGDOG for 15% off your purchase.
Forgot to say, thanks for the fabulous blog! So many good tips.
My orthotics are 3/4. I have not yet figured out how to bridge the gap when you remove the insole.
Hi Loretta:
I cut the insoles that come in the shoes and use the front of them with my 3/4 orthoics. I cut a little at a time until I get the right fit, can take some time, but it is better than cutting too much off.
Kelly
How do you attach orthotics to sandals and to the front half of sandals. I’ve tried tape, but it melts with the heat, then it’s a mess to clean off orthotics. My orthotics are 3/4 too. Hard plastic(or material like it)portion with a black piece over them.
I use thin Velcro strips 🙂
I love my Wolky Jewel sandals! I haven’t checked their availability this season yet. I hope they still make them—they fit my very thick orthotic well ❤️
I need to buy some slippers that help support my arch because I have PTTD. Do you recommend any companies that sell orthotic slippers?
Vionic sometimes offers slippers with arch support.