In comparison to ordinary shoes that you’d find on the high street, orthopaedic shoes have specific features to alleviate foot discomfort. The heel parts tend to be firmer and lower, meaning that minimal pressure is put onto your heel and the arch of your foot. Certain materials, such as memory foam, are also used to provide a comfortable surface which relieves pressure on your soles.
Depending on your taste and the type of environment you spend most of your time in, you’ll need a certain style of shoe - in fact, you’ll probably need one of each style for different occasions!
At the office, you’ll want something smart that looks like a traditional work shoe but has cushioning for added comfort. Flats or lace-up shoes are a much better choice than heels, as they won’t stretch your arches or give you leg pain when you need to stand for hours on end.
If you’re after something simpler to wear in your leisure time, boots, sandals, or flip flops are ideal. Boots are usually pretty sturdy but sandals and flip flops can be flimsy, so check that the pair you choose is flexible and will stay securely on your feet.
Memory foam is a durable material that moulds to the shape of your feet, easing pressure on the ball of your foot and providing you with complete comfort for hours. Unfortunately, though, it's not very breathable so your feet can get a bit sweaty when wearing shoes containing this material!
Microfibre is lightweight, so it’s gentle on your skin and minimises pressure on your feet. As it’s also water-resistant and machine washable, you can pop sweaty trainers made from this material in with your other laundry for a quick and easy clean.
However, if you’re into sports or you have a very active lifestyle, then you’ll need something with a much higher level of support. Look for trainers or shoes with shock-absorbing soles - these will make sure that you don’t hurt your joints each time your feet hit the ground.
Now you know what to look out for when choosing a pair of shoes, it’s time to check out our favourites. We've split this section into recommendations for men and women, to make it easier to find what you're looking for. So, ladies first!
£50.94
Style | Sandals |
---|---|
Orthopaedic Materials | - |
Level of Support | Low |
Shock Absorbent | No |
Black
£60.00
Style | Boots |
---|---|
Orthopaedic Materials | - |
Level of Support | Moderate |
Shock Absorbent | No |
Plum
£121.49
Style | Trainers |
---|---|
Orthopaedic Materials | Memory foam |
Level of Support | High |
Shock Absorbent | Yes |
Grey
£62.00
Style | Trainers |
---|---|
Orthopaedic Materials | Memory foam, microfibre |
Level of Support | High |
Shock Absorbent | Yes |
Patent Black
£59.00
Style | Flats |
---|---|
Orthopaedic Materials | Memory foam |
Level of Support | Moderate |
Shock Absorbent | Yes |
Image | 1 ![]() FitFlop | 2 ![]() Skechers | 3 ![]() New Balance | 4 ![]() Vionic | 5 ![]() FitFlop |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Name | Women's Superbendy Ballerinas | Women's Go Walk 5 Prized Trainers | Women's 1080v10 Fresh Foam Running Shoe | Women's Ruth Boot | Women's Mina Adjustable Sandals |
Features | Sleek, Smart Flats With Plenty of Cushioning | Washable, Breathable, and Lightweight | Sturdy and Shock Absorbent | Cushioned for All-Day Comfort | Ideal for Relaxed Days Out |
Price | £59.00 | £62.00 | £121.49 | £60.00 | £50.94 |
Style | Flats | Trainers | Trainers | Boots | Sandals |
Orthopaedic Materials | Memory foam | Memory foam, microfibre | Memory foam | - | - |
Level of Support | Moderate | High | High | Moderate | Low |
Shock Absorbent | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
Link |
Now, onto our picks for the guys! Whether it's a comfy pair of sandals or some professional-looking dress shoes that you're after, you're bound to find something suitable on our list.
Black
£24.99
Style | Flip flops |
---|---|
Orthopaedic Materials | - |
Level of Support | Moderate |
Shock Absorbent | Yes |
Brown Pecan
£67.49
Style | Trainers |
---|---|
Orthopaedic Materials | – |
Level of Support | High |
Shock Absorbent | Yes |
Black
£50.00
Style | Trainers |
---|---|
Orthopaedic Materials | Memory foam |
Level of Support | Moderate |
Shock Absorbent | Yes |
Black
£59.00
Style | Lace-up shoes |
---|---|
Orthopaedic Materials | - |
Level of Support | Moderate |
Shock Absorbent | - |
Black Neon Lime
£63.25
Style | Trainers |
---|---|
Orthopaedic Materials | Memory foam |
Level of Support | High |
Shock Absorbent | Yes |
Image | 1 ![]() ASICS | 2 ![]() Clarks | 3 ![]() Skechers | 4 ![]() Merrell | 5 ![]() Everhealth |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Name | Gel-Pulse 11 Training Shoes | Tilden Plain Derby Shoes | Men’s Lanson Escape Trainers | Men’s Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe | Orthotic Sandals |
Features | Flexible, Comfy, and Suitable for All Weathers | A Sophisticated Choice for Special Occasions | Smart and Supportive, Yet Trendy Too | Contoured for Comfort During Any Activity | Perfect for Exploring the Beach In |
Price | £63.25 | £59.00 | £50.00 | £67.49 | £24.99 |
Style | Trainers | Lace-up shoes | Trainers | Trainers | Flip flops |
Orthopaedic Materials | Memory foam | - | Memory foam | – | - |
Level of Support | High | Moderate | Moderate | High | Moderate |
Shock Absorbent | Yes | - | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Link |
Whether you're popping down the local shop or heading off on an all-day hike, comfort is key! So, now you've got your shoes sorted, why not check out some of our recommendations for snug outerwear?
Author: Nicola McClements
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