Best Summer Shoes for Orthotics

Key Takeaways

• Top orthotic sandal brands: Ziera, Vionic, Aetrex, Naot, and Bared Footwear
• Essential features: Removable insoles, deep heel cups, wide toe boxes, adequate depth
• Best for active wear: Brooks Addiction Walker 2 and New Balance 928v3
• Most stylish options: FitFlop Loaff sneakers and Bared Footwear designs
• Always check: Insole removability and depth before purchasing
• Professional advice: Consult podiatrists for personalised shoe recommendations

Finding summer shoes that fit orthotics can be challenging when you want footwear that looks good, feels comfortable, and accommodates your custom insoles. The good news? More brands than ever are creating stylish, orthotic-friendly shoes that don’t compromise on fashion.

Can You Wear Orthotics in Summer Shoes?

Yes! Many summer shoes now feature removable insoles specifically designed to accommodate custom orthotics. The key is knowing what features to look for and which brands understand foot health needs.

Key Orthotic-Friendly Shoe Features

Essential features for orthotic compatibility:

• Removable insoles that can be swapped for custom ones

• Deep heel cups for proper orthotic positioning

• Adequate depth to prevent a tight fit with thicker orthotics

• Wide toe boxes for natural foot movement

• Quality materials that won’t stretch or distort

• Adjustable straps or laces for a customisable fit

Which Are the Best Orthotic Sandals for Summer?

1. Ziera Sandals – Australian Design Excellence

Why they’re recommended: Ziera sandals feature removable insoles designed specifically for full-length, three-quarter-length, and court orthotics. The range is fashionable, so you don’t sacrifice style for support.

Shop Ziera Sandals collection

Best for: Fashion-conscious wearers who need reliable orthotic accommodation

2. Vionic Sandals – Podiatrist-Designed Support

Why podiatrists recommend them: Designed by podiatrists with built-in arch support, deep heel cups, and soft cushioning, removable footbeds easily accommodate custom orthotics.

Browse Vionic comfortable walking sandals

Best for: People with plantar fasciitis or arch support needs

3. Aetrex Lynco Sandals – Engineered Comfort Technology

What makes them special: Built-in arch support and cushioned footbeds that align your body and reduce joint stress. Breathable materials keep feet cool in summer heat.

Explore Aetrex women’s flips and slides

Best for: Active wearers who need maximum comfort and support

4. Naot Sandals – Cork Footbed Innovation

Unique feature: Soft cork footbeds that mould to your feet over time, creating a custom fit. Cork provides natural shock absorption and temperature regulation.

View Naot women’s sandals

Best for: People with flat feet, plantar fasciitis, or those wanting long-term comfort

5. Bared Footwear – Melbourne Podiatrist-Owned

Professional backing: Owned and designed by a Melbourne podiatrist with contoured footbeds supporting arch, heel, and forefoot. Modern, fashionable designs that don’t compromise comfort.

Best for: Contemporary style seekers who need professional-grade foot support

What Are the Best Summer Trainers for Orthotics?

Brooks Addiction Walker 2 – Athletic Performance

Why it’s highly rated: Excellent arch support, soft footbed, and wide toe box accommodate orthotics perfectly. Lightweight, breathable materials keep feet cool during activities.

Best for: Walking, light hiking, and general athletic activities

New Balance 928v3 – Motion Control Excellence

Professional recommendation: Designed specifically for walking with motion control technology. Features a cushioned footbed and a deep heel cup for stability with custom orthotics.

Best for: People with plantar fasciitis, overpronation, or stability needs

Keen Whisper Sandals – Hybrid Design

It balances sandal breathability with shoe-like support and coverage. Contoured arch and adjustable lacing ensure a secure fit with orthotics.

Best for: Outdoor activities requiring protection and breathability

Which Summer Shoes Look Most Stylish With Orthotics?

FitFlop Loaff Sneakers – Fashion Meets Function

Style credentials: Lightweight design with soft, cushioned footbeds and built-in arch support. Aligns with natural body posture, reducing fatigue throughout the day.

Best for: Casual everyday wear that looks fashionable

Dr. Comfort Patty Shoes – Medical-Grade Comfort

Specialist design: Created for diabetic and orthopaedic needs with wide toe boxes and stretchy, breathable uppers. Accommodates sensitive feet and conditions like hammertoes or bunions.

Best for: People with medical foot conditions requiring specialised footwear

Hoka One One Ora Recovery Slide – Post-Exercise Relief

A thick, cushioned midsole with a rocker bottom design relieves foot pressure. Particularly helpful for recovering from heel pain and plantar fasciitis.

Best for: Post-exercise recovery and casual comfort wear

Finding Your Perfect Orthotic Summer Shoes

Finding stylish, comfortable summer footwear doesn’t have to be difficult when you wear orthotics. More orthotic-friendly options are available than ever before, from Naot’s cork comfort to Vionic’s podiatrist-designed support, and Australian innovation from Ziera and Bared.

The best shoes with orthotics are ones that fit your lifestyle, support your feet properly, and make you feel confident. Whether you need sandals for the beach, trainers for walking, or stylish options for social occasions, excellent choices exist.

At Highett Podiatry, we’re passionate about helping our patients achieve and maintain optimal foot health. Contact us today to book your appointment for professional footwear assessments and advice. We’ll ensure you find the best orthotic summer shoes for your feet.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best sandals for orthotics?

The best orthotic sandals are Ziera, Vionic, Aetrex, Naot, and Bared Footwear. These brands feature removable insoles, deep heel cups, and adequate depth to accommodate custom orthotics whilst maintaining style and comfort.

Can you wear orthotics in flip-flops?

Yes, but only in orthotic-friendly flip-flops with removable footbeds. Vionic offers excellent flip-flop options designed specifically for orthotic wearers, whilst traditional thin flip-flops won’t accommodate custom insoles.

How do I know if shoes will fit my orthotics?

Look for shoes with completely removable insoles, deep heel cups, adequate depth (usually 15 mm+ extra space), and wide toe boxes. Check product descriptions for “orthotic-friendly” mentions and read reviews from other orthotic users.

Which summer trainers work best with orthotics?

Brooks Addiction Walker 2 and New Balance 928v3 are top choices for orthotic-friendly summer trainers. Both offer removable insoles, motion control features, and breathable materials perfect for warm-weather activities.

Are orthotic-friendly shoes more expensive?

Quality orthotic-friendly shoes often cost more due to specialised design features, premium materials, and professional input. However, they typically last longer and provide better foot health benefits, making them a worthwhile investment.

Can I wear orthotics in dress shoes during summer?

Yes, many dress shoe brands now offer orthotic-friendly options with removable insoles. Look for leather shoes with adequate depth, or consider brands like Dr. Comfort that specialise in formal, orthotic-friendly footwear.