“Best type of sneaker for orthotics?”
I plan on getting custom orthotics for my tennis shoes. This is a very confusing topic and has not been able to get good information on this subject. What I have heard is that you want to get a shoe that does not have stability or pronation correction because the orthotic is supposed to correct those issues. If you get a shoe that has stability, overpronation, etc., then you may be getting too much support with the orthotic.
So my thinking is I would want a zero drop shoe or a minimalist shoe and let the orthotic do its job. Your thoughts? Your recommendation for a tennis shoe?
So my thinking is I would want a zero drop shoe or a minimalist shoe and let the orthotic do its job. Your thoughts? Your recommendation for a tennis shoe?
Male | 64 years old
6 Answers
PodiatristOrthopedist
Sounds like there is a lot of concerns and confusion. before even discuss with you on the type of shoes or sneakers; I recommend that you go back to speak with the doctor that is planning to give you the orthotics and discuss this before the orthotics are made. There are so many different ways to make orthotics especially custom ones. they are quite expensive, so before you get them, your doctor should know or prescribe how orthotics should be used, including the sneakers that'll fit them. If there is still uncertainty, I recommend that you get warrenty on them so the orthotics can be refurbished or modified later on.
Your logic is sound. Once you obtain the custom orthotics be sure to remove the insole from the shoe so that it doesn't off-set the function of the orthotic.
Sorry for the confusion! However, the reason it is confusing is that the best shoe type depends on your foot structure. It also depends on the kind of functional orthotic that you’re having made. It is best to ask the podiatrist who is making your orthotic what he recommends. I usually recommend a straight last shoe, but the minimalist shoes are usually not ideal.
Dr. Kathleen Neuhoff
Dr. Kathleen Neuhoff
You need a supportive shoe. Motion/pronation control shoes are great with orthotics. Minimalist shoes are the worst shoes ever made-a fad. No scientific evidence for the entire minimalist shoe movement. The orthotic requires a stable shoe, a supportive shoe to do its job. You have a great deal of misinformation-forget everything you’ve learned on this topic
There are many opinions because there is no authoritative study on the subject. The main thing is to get a neutral shoe that is well cushioned that you are willing to wear most of the time. Most people get a well-cushioned tennis shoe around $100. Remember, the orthotic does the correction so the shoe does not have to. Also, you can move the orthotic from shoe to shoe, so you can use it for differing social occasions.
Hope it helps!!
Dr. Bose
Hope it helps!!
Dr. Bose
I do not think a zero drop or minimalist shoe is the best idea. Yes, the orthotic will control your foot, but the zero drop or minimalist shoes will not reduce the influence of the Achilles tendon on the function of the foot. I would recommend a supportive sneaker, such as New Balance of even Skechers. I recommend you discuss further with the provider who is making the orthotics
