Shop Women's Shoes for AFO's

An Ankle Foot Orthotic (AFO) is a medical device that supports and stabilizes the ankle and foot. It is typically made of plastic, metal, leather, or composite materials and is custom-fitted to the patient. AFOs are used for various reasons: Support and stabilization, improved mobility, pain reduction, injury prevention, and post-surgical support.

Footwear designed to accommodate Ankle Foot Orthotics (AFOs), must have specific features to ensure comfort, proper fit, and functionality.

General Specifications for Footwear to Accommodate AFOs:

• Double or Supra Depth - Shoes should have double (2 inserts) or triple depth (3 inserts) to accommodate the bulk of the AFO without causing pressure points.
• Wide Width - Shoes should have additional width to fit both the foot and the AFO comfortably. Each additional shoe width (Ex. Medium to Wide) adds approximately 1/8" in the shoe width.
• Removable Insoles - Shoes should have removable insoles to allow for the AFO to sit flat on the shoe last or bottom and provide the option to use foam spacer inserts if needed.
• Wide Opening for Easy Entry - Unable to easily bend the foot once the AFO brace is on, shoes should have a low and wide opening making it easier to "step into" the shoe with the AFO attached to the foot. A floating shoe tongue, which is not attached to the side of the shoe, is beneficial to aid in opening the shoes down to the toe area.
• Adjustable Closures - Velcro straps, and or laces, provide adjustability to secure the shoe over the AFO and ensure a snug fit. These closures help in easy donning and doffing of the footwear.
• Soft and Padded Interiors - Soft, padded interiors help prevent friction and irritation caused by the brace.
• Durable and Flexible Upper - A durable yet flexible upper material can accommodate the brace’s contours and movements.
• Low Heel Height - A low, stable heel reduces the risk of instability and ensures proper alignment with the AFO.
• Rocker Soles - Rocker soles can aid in the natural rolling motion of the foot, making walking easier and more comfortable with the AFO brace.

Suitable Footwear Brands for AFO's

• Apis Footwear - Specializes in Wide Width, Women's 7E and Medical Widths 10E and 14E. Shoe styles with double and supra depth. These shoes have two and three removal inserts designed to accommodate the volume of AFO braces.
• Drew Shoes - Specializes in Plus Fitting, double depth, removable insoles, tempered steel and strong nylon shank for added stability and support.
• Propet - Provides a range of extra-depth, and double depth shoes with adjustable features and firm heel counters.
• Dr Comfort - Their X styles are double depth, with removable insoles, and available in a variety of styles for Women.
• Orthofeet - Offers shoes with double depth, wide widths, and soft, padded interiors designed for comfort and support.

Contact the ICS Personal Fitting Specialists at (877) 553-5544 for Assistance. Selecting footwear for use with AFOs, can be complicated. ICS Shoes personal fitting specialist are knowledgeable about foot issues, AFO braces, and shoe options. We can provide recommendations for shoes that accommodate your AFO and address your unique foot issues, ensuring that the footwear meets your AFO needs. Properly fitted shoes can significantly enhance your quality of life by reducing pain, improving mobility, and allowing you to engage more fully in daily activities. Call ICS Shoes fitting specialists today at (877) 553-5544.