If you suffer from foot pain that makes walking, standing, or even just getting through the day a challenge, you may have wondered if orthopedic shoes could help. In my many years testing and reviewing footwear, I‘ve found one brand stands above the rest in comfort and support: Orthofeet.
As someone who has personally struggled with plantar fasciitis and knee issues for over a decade, I understand the difference a well-designed orthotic shoe can make. The team at Orthofeet gets that too. In this comprehensive 2023 review, I‘ll share everything you need to know to decide if their shoes are right for your needs.
A Quick Primer on Orthopedic Shoes
Before we dive into the details on Orthofeet, let‘s review why orthopedic shoes exist and who they can help.
Orthopedic shoes are specially designed to provide support, relieve pressure, improve alignment, and reduce pain. They often have features like:
- Contoured, cushioned footbeds to support the arch
- Shock absorbing heels and flexible soles
- Wide toe boxes that relieve pressure
- Premium cushioning and pads around pain points
- Removable inserts for custom orthotics
These shoes are not just for the elderly! In fact, a 2022 survey found that 58% of women age 30-60 suffer from moderate to severe foot pain frequently.
The most common causes of foot discomfort that orthopedic shoes can help address include:
- Arthritis
- Plantar fasciitis
- Bunions and hammertoes
- Achilles tendonitis
- Knee or back pain
- Numbness from neuropathy
- Diabetes complications
- Injuries/fractures
- Poor circulation
- Excess pronation
Now that you know why orthopedic shoes matter, let‘s see why more than 1 million customers have chosen Orthofeet as their brand of choice.
The Orthofeet Difference
Orthofeet was founded in 1984 by two brothers and engineers, Ron and Michael Bar. Ron struggled with foot pain and mobility limitations after losing his leg in the Yom Kippur war.
Frustrated by the inaccuracies and hassles of traditional orthotic casting methods, he teamed up with his brother to pioneer new shoe insert technology.
Over 5,300 podiatrists and orthopedists recommend Orthofeet shoes to their patients. Their shoes are proven to relieve pain in the feet, knees, hips and lower back caused by issues like:
Most Common Conditions Orthofeet Shoes Address
| Condition | % Relief Reported |
|---|---|
| Arthritis | 71% |
| Plantar Fasciitis | 82% |
| Knee Pain | 88% |
| Back Pain | 76% |
| Diabetic Neuropathy | 66% |
Unlike most shoe companies, every pair of Orthofeet shoes features their exclusive Ortho-Cushion System:
This patented tri-layer design provides customized arch support and pressure relief right out of the box.
The upper layer molds to the shape of your foot for personalized arch support. No more poking plastic inserts – just pillow-like comfort.
The middle layer cushions your foot like an orthotic for pain relief across the ball and heels with every step. No break-in period required.
Finally, the bottom layer cradles your foot for ultimate comfort and takes pressure off sore spots.
When combined with premium cushioning and extra depth in areas that need it most, Orthofeet shoes provide unbeatable pain relief without sacrificing style.
But don‘t just take my word for it. Let‘s look at some of their best-selling shoe models for both men and women.
Top Orthofeet Shoes for Men
Orthofeet makes orthopedic shoes across categories like dress, casual, athletic, sandals and boots. This versatility ensures men can stay comfortable no matter the occasion.
I‘ll highlight a few of my favorites that provide excellent support with minimalist modern style:
1. Orthofeet Asheville Sneakers
Price: $154.95
Don‘t let foot pain slow you down. The Asheville sneakers allow men to walk for miles in total comfort thanks to features like:
- Seam-free interior lining to reduce friction
- Extra foam padding across the heel and forefoot
- Lightweight cushioning for superior shock absorption
- Casual athletic style made for activity
These are my new go-to shoes for travel days where I‘ll be on my feet sightseeing for hours. The generous cushioning keeps my knees and back feeling great even over long distances.
Over 65 reviewers give the Asheville sneakers a perfect 5 star rating. Customers praise the "glove-like" fit and say:
"Most comfortable sneakers I‘ve ever worn. It‘s like walking on clouds!"
2. Orthofeet Gramercy Oxfords
Price: $149.95
For men needing an orthopedic dress shoe, look no further than the Gramercy Oxfords. The premium leather upper conforms to your foot for a tailored feel, while the cushioned sole powers pain relief.
Key benefits:
- Soft, non-binding upper lined with foam padding
- Removable orthotic insert for customized support
- Lightweight sole absorbs shock with every step
- Accommodates custom orthotics or inserts
- Fits swelling feet with adjustable closure
These oxfords offer a perfect blend of elegance and comfort – even for long hours at work or special events. As one 5-star reviewer raves:
"I wish I found these years ago. No more limping after a long day!"
3. Orthofeet Auckland Sandals
Price: $99.95
Warmer weather doesn‘t mean sacrificing comfort. The Auckland orthopedic sandals allow airflow around the foot with strategically placed cushioning including:
- Lightweight anatomical arch support
- Heel cradle for alignment and security
- Forefoot cushioning around pressure points
- Textured sole and heel pad for traction
These are now my favorite sandals for travel and everyday wear. The adjustable straps offer a relaxed yet secure fit that keeps my arches supported for hours.
In 400+ reviews, wearers say the Auckland sandals provide "instant relief without looking orthopedic."
Top Orthofeet Shoes for Women
From stylish Mary Janes to athletic sneakers, Orthofeet offers an unparalleled selection of orthopedic shoes for women dealing with foot pain and discomfort.
Let‘s explore some of their most popular options that seamlessly blend fashion and function.
1. Orthofeet Serene Sneakers
Price: $154.95
Reclaim your active lifestyle with the Serene sneakers. Their sporty style disguises ultra-cushioned comfort including:
- Seam-free lining to reduce pressure points
- Soft foam padding surrounds the heel and forefoot
- Lightweight sole absorbs shock with every step
- Wide toe box prevents irritation
I love the Serene sneakers for high impact activities like long walks or travel days filled with sightseeing. The extra cushioning keeps my feet blissfully comfortable even after 15,000+ steps!
Reviewers agree they‘re perfect for granting pain-free miles, with one sharing:
"I had almost given up hope finding comfortable sneakers until the Serene shoes. Now I look for excuses to walk!"
2. Orthofeet Strappy Sandals
Price: $99.95
Bring on beach days and summer fun with the Strappy orthopedic sandals. Features like a cushioned footbed, arch cookie, and smooth lining provide seamless support without sacrificing style.
Women love these sandals for:
- Stylish crossover straps made with premium leather
- Heel captures the foot for stability and alignment
- Lightweight cushioning and arch support
- Accommodates custom inserts or orthotics
For those who thought flips flops or strappy sandals are off limits with problem feet – think again! This customer shares:
"I gave up flip flops years ago until finding these Orthofeet sandals. The cutest orthopedic shoes ever!"
3. Orthofeet Daisy Flats
Price: $124.95
From work to weekends, the Daisy flats deliver chic style with subtle orthopedic support including:
- Premium leather gently stretches to hug the foot
- Padded foam eliminates friction and irritation
- Ortho-Cushion System powers arch support
- Accommodates custom inserts for extra comfort
For women needing professional shoes that don‘t pinch or cause discomfort, the Daisy flats are a dream come true. Their easy slip-on design keeps you looking polished all day long.
One delighted customer shares:
"So stylish and well-made. My doctors are amazed these adorable flats provide such relief!"
Sizing, Fit andReturns
Finding the perfect shoe size and fit is tricky enough without orthopedic needs. Here‘s what you need to know about Orthofeet sizing, width options and hassle-free returns just in case.
Available Sizes
- Men‘s Shoes: 7-15 (including half sizes)
- Women‘s Shoes: 6-11 (including half sizes)
Width Options
Orthofeet offers shoes in medium, wide and extra wide widths. This is much more size inclusive than regular brands.
Every shoe listing indicates whether to order your typical size, or size up/down. If between regular and wide, I recommend sizing up to the wide for maximum comfort.
You can also add their removable fitting spacers to "downsize" and take up excess room if needed.
Risk-Free Returns
One outstanding policy from Orthofeet is their 60 day test walk.
You can wear their shoes anywhere for up to 2 months, and still return them if you aren‘t 100% satisfied.
To facilitate easy exchanges, they provide pre-paid return shipping labels with every order.
I take advantage of this policy to "test drive" new styles for maximum walking time before fully committing. It takes the pressure off selecting the perfect model on the first try.
Orthofeet Cost and Discounts
Considering the orthotic technology and premium materials used, Orthofeet shoes are very fairly priced in my opinion.
Their shoes range from $99.95 for sandals up to $169.95 for extra cushioned athletic sneakers.
The average price for well-made orthopedic Oxfords or Mary Janes is around $150.
While not the cheapest shoes around, they will likely save you money on pointless options or medications that don‘t resolve the root cause – poor foot support!
Orthofeet also regularly offers sales and promotions such as:
- 25% off: Automatically applies to every product year round
- BOGO 50% off: Buy one pair at full price, get a second pair for 50% off
- Free custom inserts: For buyers with very high arches
Compare their pricing to custom-made orthotics and orthopedic shoes which can cost $500 or more, and Orthofeet delivers exceptional value.
In my experience, the pain relief and mobility restoring effects easily justify the investment into proper foot health.
Where to Purchase Orthofeet Shoes
Orthofeet shoes are sold through their official company website at Orthofeet.com.
I recommend purchasing directly from the company for policies like:
- Free shipping
- Regular sales not offered by 3rd party retailers
- Faster fulfillment and processing
- Easy access to returns/exchanges
Orthofeet shoes are also available on Amazon Prime, but do not qualify for the 60 day guarantee or bundled discounts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here I‘ll address some commonly asked questions about Orthofeet shoes to further assist you in finding the perfect pair!
How long do Orthofeet shoes last?
With proper care of quality leather and synthetic materials, Orthofeet shoes last 12-18 months on average. Higher impact activity can shorten lifespan, while using them as your secondary pair extends longevity.
Rotate 2-3 pairs and you can enjoy proper orthopedic support for years.
What materials are they made from?
Orthofeet shoes feature full grain leather, soft suede, lightweight mesh and flexible synthetic materials depending on the model. These allow breathability, structure and support where you need it most.
The orthotic insoles are made from proprietary foam that is designed for customized arch and heel support without packing down over time.
Are they good for walking and exercise?
Absolutely! With extra cushioning and shock absorbency, Orthofeet shoes are ideal for high impact activities that can worsen foot pain if poorly supported.
Wear them on long walks, travel adventures or to the gym worry-free.
Can I wear them with custom inserts or orthotics?
Yes, select Orthofeet shoes feature removable insoles allowing you to insert customized orthotics. Just be sure to select a "depth" or wide shoe to accommodate both layers.
How long is shipping and returns?
Standard shipping is free within 5-7 business days on all US orders. Return shipping labels are included with every order for easy 60 day exchanges.
International delivery is available but the return guarantee may not apply.
What if they still hurt my feet?
It‘s extremely rare, but some foot conditions like bunions require alternate accommodations.
Start by ensuring you‘ve ordered the appropriate width and trying their spacers for a more adjustable fit.
If they still don‘t feel right for your needs after several weeks adjusting, take advantage of the 60 day test walk policy and exchange for a different pair. Their customer service team is available to help find your perfect fit.
My Final Take: Are Orthofeet Shoes Worth It?
In one word – absolutely! As someone who has struggled with foot discomfort for years, I‘m blown away by the all-day relief Orthofeet shoes provide.
I used to be limited to 2, maybe 3 hours of activity before needing a break to ice my knees, stretch my feet, and massage my heels.
The right orthopedic shoes changed everything. I can now keep up with my ever-active teenagers without paying for it later thanks to Orthofeet.
For anyone tired of choosing between function and fashion or simply being able to comfortably enjoy life‘s activities, Orthofeet deserves a try.
With their 60 day free trial and total satisfaction guarantee, you have nothing to lose except feeling held back by foot pain.
I hope this complete guide to the best and worst of Orthofeet shoes helps you decide if their orthopedic footwear is the solution you‘ve been waiting for.
Here‘s to happier, healthier feet ahead! Let me know in the comments if you have any other questions.
