The 30 best orthopedic shoe brands in 2026
SAS, Vionic and chung shi lead our ranking of 30 orthopedic shoe brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Orthopedic Shoe brands, ranked
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1
SAS
SAS makes comfort-focused casual and dress shoes with cushioned footbeds and wide-fit options.
Website: sasshoes.com |Brands like SAS
Popularity 10.0/10
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2
Vionic
Vionic makes footwear with built-in orthotic arch support, including sandals, sneakers, and casual shoes.
Website: vionicshoes.com |Brands like Vionic
Popularity 5.9/10
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3
chung shi
Chung Shi makes orthotic-style shoes, including its Duo line designed to support the foot and ease pressure.
Website: chung-shi.com |Brands like chung shi
Popularity 3.9/10
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4
Dr. Comfort
Dr. Comfort makes therapeutic diabetic and orthopedic shoes with extra depth and removable insoles.
Website: drcomfort.com |Brands like Dr. Comfort
Popularity 3.8/10
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5
Orthofeet
Orthofeet makes orthopedic shoes and sandals with custom-style footbeds for foot pain and plantar issues.
Website: orthofeet.com |Brands like Orthofeet
Popularity 3.3/10
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6
Natural Feet
Natural Feet makes comfort and orthopedic-style shoes with supportive footbeds, sold mainly in Europe.
Website: naturalfeet.nl |Brands like Natural Feet
Popularity 3.2/10
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7
Stride
Stride Rite makes children's shoes, including lines with supportive footbeds and fitting-focused designs.
Website: striderite.com |Brands like Stride
Popularity 2.6/10
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8
Alegria
Alegria makes clog-style comfort shoes with removable orthotic footbeds for all-day support.
Website: alegriashoeshop.com |Brands like Alegria
Popularity 2.6/10
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9
Coolers
Coolers Shoes has been running since 1964. The company is a family-owned business that caters to the footwear needs of people. The company knows the pain of walking in the wrong shoes. They mix comfort with style to manufacture their...
Website: coolersslippers.com |Brands like Coolers
Popularity 2.4/10
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10
Abeo
Abeo makes orthopedic and therapeutic footwear with adjustable closures and extra-wide fitting options.
Website: abeofootwear.com |Brands like Abeo
Popularity 2.4/10
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11
Finn Comfort
Finn Comfort makes German comfort shoes with cork footbeds and orthopedic-style support for everyday wear.
Website: finncomfortusa.net |Brands like Finn Comfort
Popularity 2.3/10
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12
Dr. Scholl's
Dr. Scholl's is best known for foot-care insoles and sells some supportive casual and work shoes.
Website: drscholls.com |Brands like Dr. Scholl's
Popularity 2.2/10
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13
Dansko
Dansko makes clogs and comfort shoes with supportive footbeds, widely worn by people standing for long hours.
Website: dansko.com |Brands like Dansko
Popularity 2.1/10
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14
Pedors
Pedors specializes in manufacturing shoes for people who suffer from feet problems. The company was founded in 1997 to provide shoes that help people with swollen feet and make their lives comfortable. The main element in their products is Pedoprene...
Website: pedors.com |Brands like Pedors
Popularity 2.1/10
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15
Aetrex
Aetrex makes orthotic insoles and supportive footwear designed for arch and foot-pain support.
Website: aetrex.com |Brands like Aetrex
Popularity 2.1/10
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16
New Balance
New Balance makes athletic and casual shoes, including orthotic-friendly and wide-fit styles with arch support.
Website: newbalance.com |Brands like New Balance
Popularity 2.0/10
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17
MBT
MBT makes rocker-sole walking shoes intended to shift body weight and reduce strain during standing and walking.
Website: us.mbt.com |Brands like MBT
Popularity 1.8/10
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18
Z-CoiL
When purchasing footwear, comfort should be the top priority. Z-CoiL is a brand solely to provide its customers with a cozy set of footwear. Since its beginning in 1992, this Mexico-based brand has always prioritized comfort when producing any pair...
Website: zcoil.com |Brands like Z-CoiL
Popularity 1.7/10
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19
Mephisto
Mephisto makes handcrafted comfort shoes with air-cushion and orthopedic-style footbeds for everyday wear.
Website: mephisto.com |Brands like Mephisto
Popularity 1.6/10
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20
Naot
Naot makes Israeli comfort and orthotic-style shoes with supportive footbeds and arch-friendly designs.
Website: naot.com |Brands like Naot
Popularity 1.6/10
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21
Holster
Holster is among the pioneers of colorful and classy footwear. With famous words on the streets, this Australian brand provides footwear of many types for various goals. Their products are vegan friendly, and they maintain a sustainable recycled collection to...
Website: holsterfashion.com |Brands like Holster
Popularity 1.6/10
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22
Arcopedico
Arcopedico makes orthopedic and comfort shoes with removable footbeds, widely sold in Portugal and Europe.
Website: arcopedicousa.com |Brands like Arcopedico
Popularity 1.5/10
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23
Strive
Strive is a footwear brand that makes products according to your feet, providing health benefits and preventing postural deformation with stylish designs for your daily life. It has now been granted the APMA (American Podiatric Medical Association) seal, which means...
Website: strivefootwear.com |Brands like Strive
Popularity 1.4/10
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24
Easy Spirit
Easy Spirit makes comfort-focused dress and casual shoes with cushioned footbeds and wide-fit options.
Website: easyspirit.com |Brands like Easy Spirit
Popularity 1.2/10
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25
Hotter
Hotter makes British comfort shoes and boots with cushioned footbeds and wide-fit sizes.
Website: hotter.com |Brands like Hotter
Popularity 1.2/10
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26
Rockport
Rockport makes comfort-focused dress, casual, and walking shoes with cushioned footbeds.
Website: rockport.com |Brands like Rockport
Popularity 1.2/10
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27
Ziera Shoes
Ziera makes Australian comfort shoes with supportive footbeds and wide-fit options for women.
Website: zierashoes.com.au |Brands like Ziera Shoes
Popularity 1.2/10
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28
Joya
Joya makes Swiss comfort and orthopedic-style shoes with removable footbeds and wide-fit options.
Website: us.joyashoes.swiss |Brands like Joya
Popularity 1.2/10
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29
FitFlop
FitFlop makes sandals and shoes with cushioned, contoured footbeds designed for comfort and posture support.
Website: fitflop.com |Brands like FitFlop
Popularity 1.1/10
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30
Spenco
Spenco is known for orthotic insoles and foot-care products, with some supportive footwear lines.
Website: spenco.implus.com |Brands like Spenco
Popularity 1.1/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SAS | sasshoes.com | /SAS.Shoemakers | sanantonioshoemakers | @SASshoemakers | SAS Shoemakers |
| Vionic | vionicshoes.com | /vionicshoes | vionicshoes | @vionicshoes | – |
| chung shi | chung-shi.com | /chung-shi | – | @chungshi | – |
| Dr. Comfort | drcomfort.com | /drcomfortshoes | – | @drcomfort | DrComfortShoes |
| Orthofeet | orthofeet.com | /Orthofeet | orthofeet1 | @orthofeet | Orthofeet |
| Natural Feet | naturalfeet.nl | – | – | – | – |
| Stride | striderite.com | – | – | – | – |
| Alegria | alegriashoeshop.com | – | alegriashoes | – | alegriashoes |
| Coolers | coolersslippers.com | /CoolersShoes | coolersshoes | – | – |
| Abeo | abeofootwear.com | /AbeoFootwear | abeofootwear | – | – |
Orthopedic Shoes Buying Guide
If you have foot or ankle problems, you know how important it is to have proper footwear. Orthopedic shoes are specifically designed to support and protect your feet, and can help alleviate a wide range of foot conditions, including plantar fasciitis, arthritis, and diabetes-related foot problems.
Choosing the right pair of orthopedic shoes can be daunting, but this buying guide will provide you with tips on how to find the perfect pair for your needs.
1. Identify Your Needs
The first step in finding the right pair of orthopedic shoes is to identify your needs. Do you need shoes for a specific condition, like plantar fasciitis or arthritis? Or are you looking for shoes that offer general support and comfort?
If you have a specific foot condition, it’s important to choose shoes that are designed to address your specific needs. For example, shoes for plantar fasciitis should have extra heel and arch support, while shoes for arthritis should have a wide toe box and soft, cushioned soles.
If you need shoes for general support and comfort, look for shoes with features like arch support, cushioned soles, and a proper fit.
2. Look for Quality Materials
The quality of the materials used in your orthopedic shoes is also important. Look for shoes made from high-quality, breathable materials like leather, mesh, or synthetic materials.
Leather is a great choice because it is durable and breathable, and it molds to your feet over time. Mesh shoes are lightweight and breathable, making them a good choice for hot weather. Synthetic materials like nylon and polyester are often used in athletic shoes because they are lightweight and flexible.
3. Consider the Fit
The fit of your orthopedic shoes is crucial for comfort and support. Shoes that are too large or too small can cause discomfort and even injury.
When shopping for shoes, have your feet measured to ensure you get the right size. It’s also important to try on shoes with the socks or stockings you plan to wear with them to ensure a proper fit.
Your orthopedic shoes should fit snugly, but not be too tight. Look for shoes with a roomy toe box to allow your toes to move freely. The heel should fit snugly without slipping, and the arch should be supported by the shoe.
4. Look for Supportive Features
Orthopedic shoes are designed to provide support and protection for your feet. Look for shoes with features like arch support, cushioned soles, and shock absorption.
Arch support is important for those with flat feet or fallen arches. Look for shoes with a contoured insole or built-in arch support. Cushioned soles can help provide comfort, especially if you spend a lot of time on your feet.
Shoes with shock absorption are important if you engage in activities like running or jumping. Look for shoes with a flexible sole and shock-absorbing materials like air or gel cushions.
5. Consider the Style
Orthopedic shoes are often associated with bulky, unfashionable designs. However, there are plenty of stylish orthopedic shoe options available today.
When choosing a style, consider your needs and personal preferences. If you need shoes for work, look for dress shoes with good support and comfort features. If you need shoes for casual wear, look for stylish sneakers or sandals with supportive features.
6. Check for Warranty and Return Policy
Before purchasing your orthopedic shoes, check to see if the manufacturer offers a warranty or return policy. A warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment if there are any defects or issues with the shoes.
A good return policy can allow you to try the shoes at home and return them if they don’t meet your needs. Look for retailers with easy and hassle-free return policies.
Conclusion
Choosing the right pair of orthopedic shoes can be a daunting task, but by following these tips, you can find a pair that provides the support and comfort you need. Remember to identify your specific needs, look for quality materials, consider the fit and supportive features, and select a style that fits your preferences. And don’t forget to check for warranty and return policies before making your purchase.
7. Consult with Your Doctor or Orthopedist
If you have a specific foot condition, it’s important to consult with your doctor or orthopedist before purchasing orthopedic shoes. They can provide recommendations or prescribe custom orthotics that can further help alleviate your symptoms and improve your foot health.
Your doctor or orthopedist may also recommend specific brands or styles of orthopedic shoes based on your needs and foot condition.
8. Consider Custom Shoes or Orthotics
If you have unique foot needs that cannot be met by off-the-shelf orthopedic shoes, consider custom shoes or orthotics. Custom shoes can be tailored to your specific foot shape and needs, while custom orthotics can provide added support and cushioning to off-the-shelf shoes.
Custom shoes or orthotics can be costly, but they may be necessary for those with severe foot conditions or those who spend a lot of time on their feet.
9. Take Care of Your Orthopedic Shoes
Once you’ve found the right pair of orthopedic shoes, it’s important to take care of them to ensure they last as long as possible. Follow the manufacturer’s care instructions, and avoid wearing your shoes in harsh weather conditions or in activities they’re not intended for.
Regularly replacing the insoles of your orthopedic shoes can also prolong their lifespan and provide added support and cushioning.
10. Be Patient
It’s important to remember that finding the perfect pair of orthopedic shoes may take some time and patience. Don’t be discouraged if the first pair you try isn’t a perfect fit, and be prepared to try different styles or brands before finding the right one.
Remember that the right pair of orthopedic shoes can help alleviate foot pain and improve your overall foot health, so it’s worth taking the time to find the perfect pair!
Final Thoughts
Orthopedic shoes can be a game-changer for those dealing with foot or ankle problems. By carefully considering your needs, looking for quality materials and supportive features, and considering custom options, you can find a pair of shoes that provide comfort, support, and improved foot health.
Take your time, consult with your doctor, and be patient in your search for the perfect pair of orthopedic shoes.
