Wearing low-quality shoes by children during the period of active growth can lead to developmental disorders of the feet, and later to gait deformities, accelerated wear of the joints of the lower extremities and pain in the spine. To avoid these problems or correct an existing pathology, only the best orthopedic shoes produced by specialized companies can do it.
What should be orthopedic shoes
All orthopedic shoes are divided into several types:
- Preventive — contributes to the correct formation of the child’s foot, preventing the occurrence of orthopedic pathologies.
- Uncomplicated orthopedic — corrects existing changes in the initial stage of their development (most often — children’s and adult flat feet).
- Therapeutic — prescribed by a doctor’s prescription for people with complex deformities, diseases of the musculoskeletal system, shortened limbs or amputation stumps.
Many manufacturers, solely for the purpose of inflating prices, are cunning by adding the prefix «orthopedic» to the description of the model ranges of their products. Even if their product is of high quality, it can be very far from preventive and therapeutic parameters.
If you are in doubt and cannot determine the type of footwear “by eye”, ask the seller for the appropriate certificate, which should contain information about whether this product is preventive or therapeutic, indicate the features of its design and describe the production technology.
In any case, orthopedic shoes should have the following characteristics:
- stable heel,
- hard butt,
- semicircular nose,
- high rise.
All this, coupled with a heavier weight, makes it less attractive in appearance, but provides the leg with the most natural, and, therefore, the correct position. Thus, pointed-toe stilettos and unstable shoes a priori cannot be orthopedic, no matter what the manufacturer claims.
The variety of preventive and low-complexity products is almost the same as that of other shoe manufacturers.
Everything is on sale: from flip flops and sandals to sneakers, boots and winter boots. Medical products are made to order according to individual measurements using inserts, plates and fasteners, at times more reminiscent of a medical corset.
The best women’s orthopedic shoes
In addition to comfort and corrective properties, women tend to choose stylish and fashionable shoes — even if they are therapeutic. Therefore, modern manufacturers of orthopedic products give their models an attractive appearance so that every lady can choose a pair that matches her image.
Grubin Caki Clogs — Orthopedic Slippers
5.0
★★★★★
editorial score
100%
buyers recommend this product
Comfortable and warm orthopedic slippers made of environmentally friendly felt are developed directly under the supervision of European orthopedists.
The unique non-slip cork and latex outsole is incredibly durable and provides good cushioning.
Optimal layout of the longitudinal and transverse arch of the foot, toe lock and high sides provide comfortable walking. The specially treated velor insole and the same material of the inner upper prevent slipping and chafing.
Pros:
- Each pair is handcrafted;
- Natural materials maintain an optimal microclimate inside;
- Environmentally friendly;
- Bright colors — there are saturated and pastel;
- Quality tailoring and wear resistance.
Minuses:
- Very expensive.
Clogs are indispensable if you need to be “on your feet” for a long time, as they evenly distribute the load on the feet, reduce pressure on the lower back and back. They are especially recommended for overweight women.
Grubin slippers improve blood circulation and reduce swelling, thereby preventing flat feet and varicose veins even in pregnant women. Also, wearing such shoes is an effective prevention of «bones» and deformation of the fingers.
Birkenstock Ames Sneakers — Sports Ortho Shoes
4.9
★★★★★
editorial score
95%
buyers recommend this product
High-quality orthopedic sneakers for women leading a healthy lifestyle. The model is very recognizable in the world of sports fashion due to the ascetic decor and the unique herringbone pattern of the cork sole.
The shoes are made of natural leather with a raw surface and are equipped with an anatomical latex insole with a protective toe contour, a heel recess and three arch supports.
Pros:
- 2 width options;
- Stabilization of the foot and proper fixation of the heel;
- natural materials;
- Leather insoles well remove excess moisture;
- Very light, almost not felt on the leg.
Minuses:
- High price.
Sneakers soften and distribute pressure on the legs, providing prevention of flat feet, «bones», varicose veins and swelling. The model reduces the load on the spine and joints, so it is suitable even for overweight ladies.
Sandals Genda from Ganter — summer orthopedic shoes
4.8
★★★★★
editorial score
85%
buyers recommend this product
Incredibly comfortable, soft and light luxury sandals from a Spanish eco-company will allow you to forget about back pain and fatigue in your legs.
The upper of the model is made of natural silver leather, the sole is harmless and lightweight polyurethane foam with the effect of 4-point cushioning.
Complete with shoes are anatomical removable insoles, additionally unloading the foot and joints.
Pros:
- Elegant and modern design;
- Unique patented technologies of the Ganter Aktiv sole and Original Ganter insole;
- Much lighter than similar ortho shoes from other manufacturers;
- Completely repeat the anatomy of the foot;
- You can choose a model for a narrow, wide or normal foot;
- The foot in sandals does not sweat and does not slip.
Minuses:
- High price.
Sandals Ganter will be the perfect solution for active young ladies who spend a long time on their feet.
Orthopedists advise the Genda model to patients with diseases and injuries of the spine (curvature, intervertebral hernia, osteochondrosis, sciatica, etc.) and joints (arthritis, osteoarthritis), flat feet, «bone» and varicose veins. Pregnant and curvy ladies are shown to wear such sandals to relieve pain and fatigue in the legs.
Zeline by Mephisto — orthopedic winter boots
4.7
★★★★★
editorial score
75%
buyers recommend this product
Very warm and high-quality boots from the French manufacturer Mephisto are made according to all medical standards.
They have a reinforced heel counter that secures the heel, a wide toe box, and a removable anatomical insole that supports the foot and promotes load distribution.
The model is made of natural leather and fur, maintaining a natural microclimate inside. Lightweight rubber outsole provides cushioning.
Pros:
- Finishing is done by hand;
- A wide range of sizes — there are full sizes and «halves»;
- The “native” anatomical insole can be replaced with an orthopedic one;
- Very warm, suitable even for harsh winters;
- Natural, environmentally friendly and hypoallergenic materials and dyes.
Minuses:
- High price.
Mephisto orthopedic boots take care of the health of the joints and spine, correct flat feet and hallux valgus.
Baden «ANTISRESS» BF093-020 — office shoes
4.5
★★★★★
editorial score
55%
buyers recommend this product
Refined and comfortable women’s shoes with a small heel in laconic black color with a graceful bow will give your feet comfort throughout the day.
The increased width of the last and a comfortable toe area will allow you not to experience inconvenience even with an increase in foot volume in the evening.
The unique Easy Walk silicone insole with multiple air chambers evenly distributes pressure on your feet, reducing the burden of walking.
Pros:
- Wear-resistant outsole;
- Shock-absorbing insole;
- Adapt to the fullness of the legs;
- Made from genuine «breathable» leather;
- Perfect fit due to stitching of the insole with the lining;
- Affordable price.
Minuses:
- Shoes can stain feet when wet.
The most comfortable in anti-stress shoes are young ladies with a wide leg and foot problems, as well as women of Balzac age who find it difficult to find suitable shoes for themselves.
Curvy girls who value stability, comfort and a small heel will also like this model.
The best men’s orthopedic shoes
The range of men’s orthopedic shoes is no less than women’s. Often, the representatives of the stronger sex lead a more active life, are intensively engaged in dangerous sports, or, by the nature of their professional activities, are constantly “on their feet”. This is fraught with injuries and deformities of the foot, varicose veins and pain in the joints, lower back and spine.
It is these problems that medical and prophylactic footwear is designed to solve, which manufacturers additionally try to make elegant and attractive.
Felix low shoes from Berkemann — for the warm season or the office
5.0
★★★★★
editorial score
100%
buyers recommend this product
In the manufacture of this simple corrective model, all the features of the anatomy of the foot were taken into account. The heel cup distributes pressure and reduces stress on the joints.
The patented five-phase insole, supporting the foot, makes walking as comfortable as possible. Two Velcro fasteners securely fix the shoes on the foot of any width.
Pros:
- natural materials;
- Lightweight and comfortable to wear;
- The insole can be machine washed;
- Several color options;
- There are half sizes.
Minuses:
As a preventive measure, Felix 01439 is recommended for men with flat feet, corns and painful «bones». Low shoes effectively relieve pain in the joints and lumbar, prevent fatigue.
Dr. Comfort 77750 sneakers Jason — sports option
4.9
★★★★★
editorial score
95%
buyers recommend this product
Stylish and lightweight sneakers clearly fix the foot in the “correct” anatomical position with the help of an orthopedic gel insole.
It boasts a virtually seamless construction, breathable mesh upper and super light weight. The wide sock does not squeeze the fingers and foot, and the sole absorbs perfectly when walking.
Pros:
- Fashion design;
- The insole can be replaced;
- Includes laces with rubberized drawstring;
- Anti-slip sole;
- Excellent wear resistance.
Minuses:
- High price.
Orthopedists advise Dr. Jason Comfort for active people, professionally or intensively involved in sports.
Sneakers form the correct gait, preventing the development of foot pathologies (flat feet, «bones» or toe deformities). A uniform distribution of pressure on the arch reduces joint pain and reduces fatigue.
Waldläufer Winter boots Hunter «Standard» — very warm boots
4.8
★★★★★
editorial score
85%
buyers recommend this product
The model is made of genuine leather outside and wool inside. During production, all orthopedic standards are observed: the correct block, wide toe, reinforced heel. The sole is made of polyurethane and has pronounced cushioning properties.
Pros:
- Natural breathable materials;
- Comfortable, light and very warm;
- Do not squeeze the fingers and foot;
- Tightly hold the leg;
- Non-slip sole.
Minuses:
- The price is well above average.
Waldläufer — high comfort orthopedic shoes for problematic feet. The model is designed for daily wear, prevents fatigue and swelling of the legs.
The best children’s orthopedic shoes
All children’s products of this type, in addition to similar requirements for adult models, must comply with GOSTs.
Children’s ortho shoes should have: a leather insole, a minimum number of internal seams, an opportunity for air circulation and soft upper edges.
Slippers from 4Rest-Orto — orthopedic shoes for home and garden
5.0
★★★★★
editorial score
100%
buyers recommend this product
Orthopedic textile slippers are the best fit as replacement shoes for the garden or at home.
An anatomical cork insole with a built-in transverse arch arch support and a high rigid heel counter fix the child’s leg in the correct position.
The microporous rubber from which the sole is made will not allow the child to slip on a slippery floor. The size range for this model is 21-30 p.
Pros:
- Flexible outsole;
- Strong Velcro;
- Nice colors for boys and girls;
- The leg does not sweat;
- Lifting price.
Minuses:
- The textile upper is short-lived.
Slippers are recommended for the treatment and prevention of children with flat feet, hallux valgus or X-shaped deformity of the legs.
Sandals Etna by Ortmann Kids — simple ortho shoes in a bright design
4.9
★★★★★
editorial score
95%
buyers recommend this product
Etna are beautiful and high-quality sandals made of high quality materials with a pronounced orthopedic effect. Orthopedic doctors prescribe them to children with a valgus foot if it is necessary to wear high berets.
Rigid, high heels with reinforced plastic inserts on a special block stabilize the foot, while reinforced toes protect the toes from possible injuries.
The metal elements under the sole do not allow the foot to bend in the area of the arches and the heel, while at the level of the metatarsophalangeal joints it easily bends within the physiological norm (50 degrees) — this prevents its excessive movements to the sides.
The complete insole does not come with an arch support, but only because the sandals are designed to be used with individual orthopedic insoles.
Pros:
- Combined with other artesia;
- Bright design in several colors for girls and boys;
- Can be worn at home and on the street in the warm season;
- Made from genuine leather;
- Do not rub;
- Adjustable fasteners under the leg of different fullness;
- There are abrasion indication zones on the outsole.
Minuses:
- Special insoles must be purchased separately;
- Pretty expensive.
Sandals effectively correct valgus retraction of the foot in the heel up to 10 degrees, correcting the defect well.
This prevents further deformation, supports the biomechanics of the foot, relieves excessive stress and reduces the possibility of injuries to the leg muscles and ligaments.
Shoes for girls and teenagers 33-430-2 from Sursil-Ortho — a preventive shift for schoolchildren
4.9
★★★★★
editorial score
95%
buyers recommend this product
Girls’ shoes Sursil-Ortho are practical and comfortable shoes for long daily wear. It’s perfect for school, as their neutral color and understated design will go with any outfit and won’t go against the school’s strict dress code.
The model has a dense high heel part, reinforced with thermoplastic. It clearly fixes the foot and the position of the heel in an anatomically correct position.
The elastic and wide sole accommodates, if necessary, an individual orthopedic insole. Creases and folds do not form on the front of the shoes.
Pros:
- The kit includes an anatomical removable insole;
- Width-adjusting Velcro fastener;
- Made from genuine leather;
- Wide size range (27 — 36);
- Non-slip one-piece outsole, sealed at the heel;
- Suitable for any clothes.
Minuses:
- No distinct Thomas heel.
The model is prescribed for flat feet and valgus foot. It not only prevents further deformation of the legs, keeping them in the correct position, but also forms the correct gait, maintaining posture.
The best preventive shoes for kids
It is preventive children’s shoes that occupy a large part of the segment of this market. According to medical statistics, almost every modern child has one or another pathology of the feet, which in adult life can come back to haunt serious health problems.
Children’s boots from Ortek (art. 65095) — prevention for the little ones
4.9
★★★★★
editorial score
95%
buyers recommend this product
Until the age of 3, the child’s foot is especially actively formed, so the quality of the first shoes is very important. Ortek boots promote the correct development of a small foot and prevent the development of defects by fixing it in an anatomical position. During movement, the correction effect is maintained, which affects the development of the correct gait.
Pros:
- High-quality tailoring and materials;
- Comfortable and beautiful products;
- A wide range of models with the presence of small sizes, starting from the 18th;
- Rigid back and toe cap;
- Anatomic insole;
- Thomas heel;
- The shoes are not much heavier than usual.
Minuses:
- The price is high.
Ortek boots protect against the development of longitudinal and transverse flat feet, valgus and varus obstruction of the foot. In case of congenital pathologies, it is recommended to additionally use an individual anatomical insole.
Totto Silber/Weiß — party shoes
4.8
★★★★★
editorial score
85%
buyers recommend this product
The special design of elegant and comfortable white-silver sandals, developed by St. Petersburg orthopedic doctors, contributes to the correct formation of the arch of a child’s foot.
Sandals are made of high quality genuine leather, have a beautiful appearance and comfortable Velcro fasteners.
A non-slip textured sole made of durable thermoplastic elastomer will protect the girl from falling even on lacquered and tiled floors. The sizes of the model are presented next to 19-25 (for a leg 11.5-15.5 cm long).
Pros:
- Affordable price;
- Good quality Velcro;
- Easy to wash and dry quickly;
- Neat seams;
- Anatomical insole with holes for ventilation.
Minuses:
- Too wide for a thin leg;
- Larger by 0.5 cm.
Sandals are perfect for both everyday wear and a festive dress for going out. The preventive orientation of the product will prevent the development of flat feet and flat-valgus or varus deformity of the feet in a child.
Boots 1017 from Dandino — winter preventive shoes
4.7
★★★★★
editorial score
75%
buyers recommend this product
Dandino children’s boots are made of soft leather and lined with natural fur. Manufactured and processed with the latest technology, elastic materials absorb moisture well.
The rigid heel tightly covers the baby’s feet, while allowing the leg to breathe. The model has a pleasant appearance and bright colors.
Pros:
- Convenient Velcro fasteners, subject even to the baby;
- Quality tailoring;
- Light and warm;
- Securely fix the foot;
- Affordable price.
Minuses:
- Over time, the Velcro stops sticking.
Dandino boots are recommended to be worn to prevent flat feet, clubfoot and foot valgus. They do not have healing or corrective properties.
Sneakers 37054 from Orthoboom — sports preventive shoes
4.5
★★★★★
editorial score
55%
buyers recommend this product
Is your child active and loves sports? Orthoboom sneakers combine comfort and modern design with the properties of a medical product.
Rigid heels are molded according to the block developed by the manufacturer, corresponding to the anatomical shape of the ankle, and hold the foot well.
Orthopedic insole on a textured basis with arch support — removable. Soft edging at the top of the shoe prevents chafing. The toes are free and comfortable inside the shoe thanks to the stiff and wide toe box.
Pros:
- Wide size range (from 22 to 36);
- Easy to put on;
- Strong Velcro fasteners;
- Arch forming insole;
- There are colors for boys and girls.
Minuses:
- Made from faux leather.
Sneakers are able to cope with the initial form of flat feet and flat-valgus feet, preventing its further deformation.