10 Best Orthopaedic Shoes UK 2024
It can be tricky to find orthopaedic shoes which are both stylish and functional, so we’ve done the hard work for you. Read through our detailed buying guide, then check out our recommendations from Amazon, eBay, and John Lewis. To make things easier to navigate, we’ve divided this article into our top 5 picks for women and men, from popular brands such as Skechers, FitFlop, and Clarks.
Quick List - Top Orthopaedic Shoes
FitFlop
Sleek, Smart Flats With Plenty of Cushioning
Skechers
Washable, Breathable, and Lightweight
New Balance
Sturdy and Shock Absorbent
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What Does Orthopaedic Mean?
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.
How to Choose Orthopaedic Shoes in the UK - Buying Guide
Boots, Trainers, Sandals, or Flats - Which Style Do You Prefer?
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.
Materials Like Memory Foam and Microfibre Provide Comfort and Convenience
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.
Check the Level of Support; Some Soles Have Shock-Absorbing Properties
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.
Top 5 Best Orthopaedic Shoes for Women
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | FitFlop 1. Fitflop Women’s Superbendy Ballerinas – Black｜Patent Black | | Sleek, Smart Flats With Plenty of Cushioning | |
2 | Skechers 2. Skechers Women’s Go Walk Evolution Ultra-Reach Slip On Trainers – Purple/Mauve｜Grey | | Washable, Breathable, and Lightweight | |
3 | New Balance 3. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Vongo V3 Running Shoes – Turquoise｜Plum | | Sturdy and Shock Absorbent | |
4 | Vionic 4. FitFlop Women’s Ottie Faux Suede Ankle Boots – Black｜Black | | Cushioned for All-Day Comfort | |
5 | FitFlop 5. FITORY Ankle Strap Cork Sandals – Cream Khaki | | Ideal for Relaxed Days Out |
FitFlop1. Fitflop Women’s Superbendy Ballerinas – Black ｜ Patent Black
Sleek, Smart Flats With Plenty of Cushioning
Soft and slimline, with SupercomFF™ cushioned soles, this pair of glossy shoes will make sure your feet will never ache again! Being comfy, pretty, and practical, they tick all the boxes and just had to be our top pick!
Skechers2. Skechers Women’s Go Walk Evolution Ultra-Reach Slip On Trainers – Purple/Mauve ｜ Grey
Washable, Breathable, and Lightweight
As the upper is made from microfibre, you can pop these trainers in the washing machine whenever they get a bit dirty. If you’re looking for plush trainers that won’t break the bank, we definitely recommend this pair!
New Balance3. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Vongo V3 Running Shoes – Turquoise ｜ Plum
Sturdy and Shock Absorbent
The soles are made with cushty memory foam and shock-absorbent EVA. Plus, the durable suede and textile uppers are designed to stand up to everyday wear-and-tear - an essential feature if you’re into running or playing sports regularly.
Vionic4. FitFlop Women’s Ottie Faux Suede Ankle Boots – Black ｜ Black
Cushioned for All-Day Comfort
The only downside is that they lack versatility - they’ll be too warm for hotter weather and aren’t sturdy enough for sports! For casual walks though, they're perfect.
FitFlop5. FITORY Ankle Strap Cork Sandals – Cream Khaki
Ideal for Relaxed Days Out
As you might expect from an open toe style, these sandals only provide light support for your feet - which is a shame considering they're so expensive! Still, they’re ideal for relaxed days out at the seaside or kicking back at home.
Compare the Best Orthopaedic Shoes for Men
Top 5 Best Orthopaedic Shoes for Men
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.
Want to Stay Comfy All Day Long? Check Out These Products!
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?
Summary
Author: Nicola McClements
Top 5 Orthopaedic Shoes
No. 1: FitFlop｜1. Fitflop Women’s Superbendy Ballerinas – Black｜Patent Black
No. 2: Skechers｜2. Skechers Women’s Go Walk Evolution Ultra-Reach Slip On Trainers – Purple/Mauve｜Grey
No. 3: New Balance｜3. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Vongo V3 Running Shoes – Turquoise｜Plum
No. 4: Vionic｜4. FitFlop Women’s Ottie Faux Suede Ankle Boots – Black｜Black
No. 5: FitFlop｜5. FITORY Ankle Strap Cork Sandals – Cream Khaki
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.