Women are always on their feet. We always seem to be on the go, helping kids, picking things up off the floor, washing dishes, cooking and just basically doing all the things. And yet we often choose to wear shoes that probably don’t best support our feet. A study found that between 63-72 % of participants were wearing shoes that did not accommodate their feet, leading to foot pain and disorders. The solution? Orthopedic sandals for women, also called orthotic sandals, that will support and look after those precious parts of your body that keep you going all day.
Understanding Orthotic Sandals
Orthotic sandals provide cushioning for the foot and can therefore give relief and support to your tired, sore feet.
Key features of orthotic sandals
- Arch support (This helps with alignment and even weight distribution.)
- Cushioning (for shock absorption for the heel and balls of the foot)
- Adjustable straps (If your foot swells naturally during the day you can adjust it here. But this also helps prevent blisters)
- Breathable materials (to absorb sweat and keep your feet dry)
- Slip resistant (so that your feet can grip those slippery surfaces)
Benefits of Orthotic Sandals for Women
If “boots and bread” are the most important (food and having shoes) then surely you should make sure that your feet are properly supported? Here are some benefits of having your little tootsies well encased in these kinds of shoes:
- Alleviation of foot pain – you’ll be able to stand for longer without your feet or legs hurting.
- Improved posture – everything lines up better
- Enhanced mobility – it will be easier to move if your feet are supported.
- Prevents injuries and blisters by just getting your feet in the right place.
Choosing the Right Orthotic Sandals
Now that you’ve decided to get them, it’s important to get the sandals that will be right for you, your needs and your style.
Foot type
If you have flat feet like me, you might want to consider rigid or semi-rigid a good idea. Rigid materials are made from plastic or carbon fibre. Semi rigid would be foam or rubber. But arthritis or diabetic related foot problems might need a softer cushion. If your feet tend to roll inward (overpronation) then semi rigid is also good. This guide has more information.
Activity level and purpose
If you’re a walker, then you need arch support, shock absorption, fit and good grip (non-slip). If you’re wearing them for work then you need the right balance between formality and comfort. Leather might be a good option for its durability and smarter appearance.
Personal style
Are you sporty? or glamourous? There are many choices out there to suit you.
Popular international brands
- Vionic
- Birkenstock
- Dr. Scholl’s
- KuaiLu
- Sketchers
South African outlets and brands for orthotic sandals for women
- Green Cross
- Froggie
They had links to two catalogues: Dr Comfort and FitFlop. Here are some sandals I found in the Dr Comfort catalogue.
- Goldings Orthopedic Centre (Gauteng) – they had a variety of colours and sparkles that would work nicely for both day and night.
- Fareshoes Cape Town
This one has nice cushioning, cooling fabric and arch support.
- Cloud Cape Town: Arla Orthopedic Shoes
These ones look nice and soft and comfortable. You can be active and pain free in these shoes.
How to Wear Orthotic Sandals
Tips for breaking them in
You might find instant comfort in your shoes. Other, more rigid types may require that you wear them for a few hours at first and then increase this by one or two hours each day over a week.
Styling tips for different occasions
You can still look fabulous in your orthotic sandals! Match your shoes with your pants or skirt. Where possible, go for a slimmer sole. Compromise on the bow and pointy toe with an almond toe, or something similar. Make sure that your pants are the right length and width of leg opening.
Common Myths About Orthotic Sandals
Orthotic sandals are only for the elderly
Looking after your feet is super important. You don’t want to be struggling with pain later in life. So insure your foot health and be healthy and comfortable now. These sandals are worn for everyone in all ages and stages of life.
Orthotic sandals are unfashionable
There are so many varieties and colours to choose from these days. This post, from a fashion journalist (How I Learned to love Orthopedic Shoes after Years of putting Fashion First) is all about how a pinched nerve in her foot made her rethink her shoe choices. She got rid of what she could not wear and now “when I bounce around town in them, I feel like I own the world.”
Orthotic sandals are too expensive
Do your research and shop around. Yes, there are expensive ones out there, but keep looking and you will find the bargains too. On my recent trip to the US, when Nicky’s luggage got delayed, we went to a Goodwill (Charity shop) and I found such nice supportive shoes with the best non slip sole.
Conclusion
Orthotic sandals for women may seem a bit like shoes for old ladies, and on first thought, may make you feel a bit depressed about getting older and having limits on what your body can handle. And you’re probably used to prioritising your kid’s shoes above your own. But when you realise the freedom of prioritising your health, yourself and caring for your feet (and thereby your whole body) long term, you’ll be skipping along in more comfortable, supportive shoes.
Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Responsival
I think you should check the various brochures and site links. I also have flat feet, it’s nice to have that arch support.
Hi
I have a Plantar Fasciitis which cause pain in my heel
Do you have sandals with a back strap to help with the top and I have a flat foot that needs arch support