Hey there! This post was originally published and has been updated in May 2024 with the latest styles, info, and shopping links for AFO-friendly sandals. Heads up, we may include affiliate links that give us a small commission. Don’t worry, it won’t cost you anything extra but it does help me keep the site running and splurge on a Starbucks skinny vanilla latte now and then.
Before we talk about the most stylish and comfortable sandals of 2024 for AFO (leg brace) and orthotic wearers, you might be wondering what Molly Ringwald and the movie “16 Candles” have to do with footwear. The answer? Absolutely nothing! I just love a catchy title and any excuse to reference one of my favorite 80’s movies.
Okay, so if you stumbled upon this blog post (perhaps, literally!) by Googling “orthopedic sandals” or “sandals to wear over leg braces,” then you’re likely all too familiar with the challenges of finding stylish and comfortable shoes that accommodate AFOs (leg braces).
Yep, shoe shopping, especially sandal shopping, when you live with foot-related challenges and wear AFOs and/or orthotics is no easy “feat” 😂! OMG, I used an old man’s pun without even hesitating. What is wrong with me? 🫢. Btw, if you have no clue how to even wear sandals with leg braces, we suggest you read this post, “7 Life-Changing AFO & Orthotic Shoe Hacks,” before scrolling on.
The point is, I get it! And, more importantly, I’ve got you! So, just like the Jake Ryan character who saved the day in the end and renewed Molly Ringwald’s character’s sense of hope and dreams (albeit, a bit of a stretch, I know 😂), Trend-Able is here to help give you the happy, feel-good ending of your shoe-shopping dreams.
Say goodbye to exhausting and disheartening mall trips. If you’re in search of comfortable and stylish sandals that don’t resemble something straight out of an old lady’s mothball-filled closet, keep scrolling.
After countless hours of scouring the internet and sifting through numerous reviews, we have handpicked 16 pairs of stylish AFO-friendly sandals that will elevate your fashion game.
So, without further ado, here are our 16 handpicked picks (in no particular order) of the cutest AFO-friendly sandals for the season.
Remember to click on the images and/or bolded text below to shop each shoe directly on the retailer’s website (all with free and easy returns). Scroll to the end of this post to find all the links (and tons more) to our favorite sandals of the Summer 2024 season.
Okay, (insert drum roll here)… presenting 2024’s top 16 Sandals…
The handmade leather Amadora sandal from Naot offers a polished and covered look, perfect for the office, weekend travel, or city errands. With its removable suede-wrapped footbed, the Amadora sandal features allows enough width and depth for bulky types of AFOs and orthotics.
The adjustable hook-and-loop strap ensures a secure fit, while the cushioned cork, latex, and memory foam midsole provides exceptional comfort and support. With the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, you can trust these sandals to promote good foot health.
The leather upper adds a touch of elegance, and the sturdy polyurethane sole ensures durability. The Amadora is true to size, and if you’re in between sizes, it’s best to size up. Enjoy style and comfort all summer long with these versatile sandals.
Introducing the Zuri sandal by Lifestride, a perfect blend of style and comfort. Available in a D width, these sandals provide a roomy fit that can accommodate many styles of orthosis and various foot needs.
The braided straps at the toe add a touch of interest and sophistication to this platform sandal, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. The Zuri features a sueded footbed designed for superior cushioning, offering ample shock absorption and pressure distribution to keep your feet comfortable throughout the day.
Additionally, the supportive ankle strap provides extra stability for everyone, ensuring a secure fit and enhanced support, which is particularly beneficial for those with weak ankles and balance related challenges.
So, whether you’re running errands or enjoying a casual day out, these sandals ensure your feet stay supported and stylish. The thoughtfully design and comfortable fit make the Zuri sandal a must-have addition to your summer wardrobe.
Meet the Oregon sandal, a sophisticated and supportive sandal that can be dressed up or down.
Designed with hook-and-loop closures, these sandals offer ease of use and a customizable fit to accommodate various foot needs. The removable, cushioned insole with arch support ensures that you can easily insert your own orthotics for personalized comfort.
With a flat sole and a soft leather upper, these sandals provide the flexibility, cushioning, and support you need for all-day wear.
Embrace summer with the David Tate The Scala Sandal, a perfect blend of classic elegance and contemporary comfort. This versatile sandal features a clean silhouette and sleek straps that hug your foot for a polished look, making it ideal for everything from farmers markets to nights out.
The Scala sandal offers unparalleled comfort with its walkable low heel and extra cushioning under the insole. The soft suede forepart gently conforms to your foot, while the durable rubber outsole ensures traction on various surfaces.
The adjustable Velcro closure provides a secure, customized fit, and the sandal is available in an extra wide width to accommodate various foot needs and orthotics.
The Scala sandal is your go-to choice for stylish summer adventures.
Give your feet the freedom of a sandal, the custom fit of a lace-up design, and the much-craved comfort of a flat with the Adele by Revitalign. This sandal (available in a wide width) combines orthotic support with a touch of gladiator-style glamor, making it a standout choice for any summer outfit.
The Adele features a leather gladiator design with shoelaces for a customized fit, complemented by wrapped cork detailing. The Full Contact Comfort® technology includes a metatarsal pad, deep heel cupping, and orthotic-grade arch support, ensuring all-day comfort. The Revitalign EVA footbed, treated with Ultra-Fresh antimicrobials, helps control odor-causing bacteria for a fresh feel. With the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, the Adele sandal is both stylish and supportive, perfect for your summer adventures.
The Scottsdale sandal by Propet combines lightweight full coverage with a cushioned footbed, ensuring all-day wearability and comfort. Designed with AFO and orthotic wearers in mind, this sandal offers both support and style for any summer activity.
Part of the TravelActiv collection, the Scottsdale sandal features three hook-and-loop straps for a fully adjustable fit to accommodate various foot needs. Available in extra extra wide width sizes, it ensures a perfect fit for everyone. The treaded TravelTek™ outsole provides enhanced traction on a variety of surfaces, keeping you steady and confident whether you’re exploring new trails or strolling around town. With its thoughtful design and comfortable fit, the Scottsdale sandal is a reliable choice for your summer adventures
Introducing the Awaken sandal by Vionic, part of the innovative VRX Collection with Vionic’s advanced recovery system, now available in a casual leather design. This lightweight recovery sandal is perfect for those looking for both comfort and style.
The Awaken sandal features adjustable straps for a customizable fit, a massaging footbed, and dual-density cushioning for ultimate comfort. The built-in VIO MOTION Technology footbed provides contoured arch support, shock-absorbing cushioning, a deep heel cup for stability, and forefoot flexibility, ensuring your feet are well-supported throughout the day.
The high-traction rubber outsole enhances traction and durability, making it perfect for various surfaces. Available in wide width sizes, the Awaken sandal accommodates a range of foot shapes and sizes. Experience the perfect blend of recovery, comfort, and casual style with the Awaken sandal by Vionic.
One of our favorite brands for AFO wearers, Revere Shoes, has struck the perfect balance of contemporary design and optimum comfort with their Emerald sandal.
Crafted from soft luxe leather, these women’s sandals feature adjustable straps that cradle your foot, providing support as you stroll.
The 3-strap design accommodates wide feet, and the footbed can be easily removed to fit custom orthotics and/or AFOs. Additionally, Revere includes strap extensions for an even wider fit if needed.
With a premium leather upper and lining, the Emerald sandals offer a blend of luxury and practicality. Whether you need extra support or a stylish addition to your wardrobe, the Emerald sandals by Revere are an excellent choice for any occasion.
Be sure to insert the coupon code “Trend-Able” at check-out for 15% off all purchases.
Get ready for sunny days and a fun-filled summer calendar with the CeCe sandal by Miz Mooz. Crafted from soft European leather, these sandals feature a stamped design for extra style and a cushioned footbed for unmatched comfort. Whether you’re heading to a brunch, a beach day, or an evening out, the CeCe sandals ensure you’re always stylish and comfortable.
The CeCe sandal is designed with wide width options to accommodate various foot shapes. The smooth and stamped leather upper, along with the convenient inside zipper entry, makes these sandals both fashionable and easy to wear.
Made with European luxe leather, the CeCe sandal by Miz Mooz is the perfect blend of style and comfort for all your summer adventures.
Step into magic with the Rosine Sandal by Dromedris, a versatile style featuring a removable flower strap that transforms the sandal’s look effortlessly. Whether you prefer a floral accent or a sleeker appearance, the Rosine allows for easy customization to suit your mood and outfit.
Crafted with comfort and adjustability in mind, all straps of the Rosine Sandal feature Velcro fastenings, ensuring a perfect fit for every foot. The Strobel construction enhances flexibility and fit, while the soft tumbled leathers with a slight grain offer a luxurious feel.
The Rosine Sandal’s footbed boasts arch support and is covered in a soft, breathable microfiber for ultimate comfort. Plus, it’s completely removable, allowing for easy replacement with AFOs and orthotics for personalized support.
What sets these sandals apart is the exclusive material used, offering a range of benefits including absorption and desorption for total dryness, antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, anti-odor capabilities, and washability at 95°C without shrinking, retaining all its properties. Enjoy total comfort and style with the Rosine Sandal, designed to meet all your summer footwear needs.
When you hit hour five of your sightseeing tour, zoo day with the kids, or shopping marathon, you’ll be glad you’re wearing the Bali sandal by Sofft. These strappy leather sandals are designed to get the job (and journey) done with extraordinary comfort and style.
Crafted from premium Italian leather, the Bali sandal features an adjustable ankle strap with a hook-and-loop closure for a secure and customizable fit. The cushioned insole with arch support, along with a padded heel, ensures maximum comfort for extended wear. The flexible recycled TPR outsole provides excellent traction and durability, making these sandals perfect for any adventure.
Available in wide widths, these sandals are the perfect blend of elegance and practicality. Enjoy all-day comfort and versatility with the Bali sandal by Sofft, ideal for everything from casual outings to more active days.
Summer days call for the supple yet sporty Gale sandal by Comfortiva, a versatile option that transitions effortlessly from day to night. Crafted from high-quality materials, this sandal is available in full-grain leather, Italian suede, or distressed leather, ensuring a stylish look for any occasion. The Gale’s side zipper, complete with a matching leather pull, allows for easy on-and-off wear while adding a touch of sophistication.
Comfort is paramount with the Gale sandal, thanks to its synthetic lining and suede-lined footbed. The exclusive Pillowtop® memory foam footbed cushions your feet with every step, while the molded anatomic cork midsole and raised arch support provide excellent support. Designed for those who need extra ankle stability, the Gale features a construction that keeps your feet secure and comfortable throughout the day.
The flexible, slip-resistant cleated TPR outsole offers reliable traction on various surfaces, making it perfect for all your summer adventures. Available in wide width sizes, the Gale sandal ensures a perfect fit for everyone, offering both style and support for any summer activity.
Step into effortless style and comfort with the Neila sandal by Naturalizer. Perfect for any occasion, these sandals combine sleek design with practical features, making them a versatile addition to your summer wardrobe.
The Neila sandal features a chic strappy design crafted from premium leather, ensuring both durability and elegance. An adjustable buckle closure provides a secure and customizable fit, while the cushioned footbed with Naturalizer’s signature Contour+ technology offers exceptional comfort and support for all-day wear. The flexible, slip-resistant outsole ensures stability and traction on various surfaces, making these sandals ideal for everything from casual outings to dressier events.
Available in wide widths, the Neila sandal accommodates a variety of foot shapes and sizes, ensuring a perfect fit for everyone. With a moderate heel height, the Neila sandal offers just the right amount of lift to enhance your look without compromising on comfort. Whether you pair them with shorts, skirts, or dresses, the Neila sandal by Naturalizer is your go-to choice for stylish, comfortable footwear this summer.
Elevate your style with the Bayview sandal by Ara, a chic and versatile choice for any occasion. Crafted from premium nappa leather, the Bayview sandal features eye-catching zigzag straps with three adjustable hook-and-loop closures, ensuring a perfect fit tailored to your foot.
The platform wedge sole of the Bayview sandal not only adds a fashionable lift but is also ultra-lightweight and shock-absorbent, providing both style and comfort. This sandal is designed with a removable footbed, allowing you to easily replace it with custom orthotics for personalized support and comfort.
Whether you’re dressing up for a night out or keeping it casual for a day of errands, the Bayview sandal by Ara effortlessly combines elegance and coziness, making it an essential addition to your summer wardrobe. Enjoy the perfect blend of fashion and function with these stylish and supportive sandals.
Transition seamlessly from errands to your next beach day with the Lyddia espadrille sandal from Journee Collection. This versatile sandal features a beautiful crisscross toe strap and an ankle strap adorned with a horseshoe buckle, adding a touch of elegance to any summer outfit. The thin espadrille platform and whipstitch details make it an ideal choice for the warm season, providing a perfect blend of style and comfort.
Crafted from soft faux leather, the Lyddia sandal offers a comfortable fit with a padded footbed, ensuring you can go just about anywhere in ease and style. The crisscross toe strap not only enhances the sandal’s chic look but also provides secure support for your feet. The adjustable ankle strap with the horseshoe buckle allows for a customized fit, making it perfect for long days out.
Available in wide width sizes, the Lyddia caters to a variety of foot shapes and sizes, ensuring everyone can enjoy its stylish design. Whether you’re running errands, enjoying a beach day, or heading out for a casual evening, the Lyddia espadrille sandal from Journee Collection is your go-to choice for versatile summer footwear.
Chic, elegant, and picture-perfect sum up the Santorini sandals, another awesome shoe that’s like a dream for hard to fit AFO and orthotic wearers by our brand partner, Revere Shoes.
Crafted from premium leather, these beautiful and fun sandals strike the perfect balance of staying cool and comfortable while looking fabulous, easily taking you from day to night.
The removable footbed accommodates custom orthotics, AFOs, and braces, making these sandals versatile and supportive. Revere strap extensions are also included for a wider fit.
For those who don’t wear orthotics, the removable insoles are contoured to the natural curves of the feet, while the straps can be easily adjusted to fit any foot. If you want to change up the style for the evening, the T-Bar can even be removed!
Experience the perfect blend of style and comfort with the Santorini sandals, designed to meet the needs of AFO wearers while offering a chic look for any occasion.
Enjoy free shipping and a free 30-day return policy when purchased using our link. Enter “Trend-Able” at check-out to receive 15% off any order.
The End
Finding the perfect sandal that combines style, comfort, and the ability to accommodate AFOs and orthotics can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But fear not! Our 2024 lineup has got you covered. From chic, elegant designs to sporty, supportive options, these sandals ensure you don’t have to compromise on fashion or functionality.
Whether you’re hitting the city streets, lounging on the beach, or running errands, these sandals provide all-day comfort and style. With adjustable straps, cushioned footbeds, and the ability to fit custom orthotics, AFOs, and braces, these picks are designed with your unique needs in mind.
Ready to step into summer with confidence? Explore our top picks and find your new favorite pair. And don’t forget to leave a comment and share your sandal success stories with us here, or on our Facebook and Instagram pages. We’d love to see how you’re rocking your stylish and supportive footwear!
Happy shopping!
Xoxo
Lainie
Click On And Slide Through The Images Below To Shop All Of Our Favorite AFO Friendly Sandals
I am about to get an afo for my left foot which was permanently damaged in an accident. I’ve read that socks should always be worn with afos and I’m hoping for suggestions. What kinds of socks will look best with sandals or dressy shoes? Do people wear socks on both feet with shoes that wouldn’t usually be worn with socks?What about heat? I live in SC and the heat index is commonly over 100.
I can get the afos in white, skin tone, or a print. I don’t mind them showing under something like a calf length sundress (my go-to on summer), but I don’t want anything loud, so I’m planning on skin tone. I realized that any sock will really make the afo stand out compared to the other leg whether I’m wearing socks on both feet or not.
I’d love any tips, even if it’s being gently told to swallow my pride. I’m just really struggling to come to grips with the fact that a freak accident has left me permanently disabled.
Do you have any experience with Arizona style AFOs – the leather lace up kind? I love mine (& prefer laces to Velcro in general, don’t like the sensory experience of Velcro) but they get super hot in the shoes I have & I’d really love to find a pair of nicer shoes for formal events with dancing. I haven’t found any pictures (or reviews) of sandals over the Arizona’s though, & most of what what I’ve seen use the carbon fiber type which are drastically less obtrusive & cover much less surface area of the ankle/foot/calf, so I can’t tell how well the advice transfers or not. Do you think any of these sandal suggestions would work for me? I’m also looking at the lace up open toe bootie type & classic strappy (woven leather) closed toe sandals (with buckles). Thanks
Hi Tori,
I am sending you an email with those answers.
I am glad there are sandals that are comfortable and don’t look old. I want some that look cool. That give me some extra style.
https://mytiddies.com/
Thanks so much Chance!
Great list, Lainie! For those of use who wear orthotics with our braces, I found a pair of sandals by Propet that actually have a removable insole and come in extra wide. Check them out! https://www.thewalkingcompany.com/collections/womens-sandals/products/propet-jenna-brown
Hi Lainie, The weather’s getting warmer and so I’m checking out this article again. These are great sandals, but my problem is that my toes are just fugly. I have one pair of black closed toe sandals that I’ve tweaked myself to work with my AFO’s and orthotics, but I’m wondering if you have any other suggestions for a closed toe shoe that still looks like a sandal and would fit both an AFO and an orthotic. Thanks! Linda
PS: I attended a CMTA virtual support group last weekend and the guest speaker was an orthotist with CMT. He was great, but had no idea that fashionable shoes were an option. I gave trend-able a big shout out to everyone who was there!
Thank you for all the amazing suggestions. I have foot drop and it’s been 5mths. My afo is carbon fiber and I feel like I can only wear tennis shoes. It’s def a love hate relations ship with the afo. You provided some sandal ideas and I do have some, but my brace isn’t fitting on them with the sole. It’s fitting to tight on the straps. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your blog. Thanks, Priscilla
Hi Priscilla,
Thanks so much for your nice comment! I would love to help. Can you email me a photo at info@trend-able.com? Thanks
Hi Lainie,
I have the Allard carbon fiber AFO. Do you have a specific insole or insert you recommend to use with sandals?
Hi Lainie! I’ve just found you and am SO thrilled! 3 emergency spine surgeries in 11 days 3 years ago and I now have permanent foot drop/paralysis on my right foot. Ive come a long way and am generally doing well. But! I want real shoes! And sandals! I wear thecsame blue rocker as you. I cannot wait wair to scour through this enture site and learn from your experience. You have given me hope. THANK YOU!!! -Patti
Hi Jamie,
I am so happy that you found me on the website. I hope you can find some shoes but if you have any questions please reach out to me by email anytime. Also, please join our Facebook page. I hope you had a happy Mother’s Day
HI- I’d like to ask what everyone’s solution is to getting a good pedicure when you just cannot stand how sensitive your feet are from neuropathy? I dread it now 🙁
Hi Catherine,
Thanks for writing! I have very sensitive feet too & when getting a pedicure I ask the person to not use the toe separator thing & to be very gentle. You may like this post https://trend-able.com/8-life-lessons-only-a-girlfriend-with-neuropathy-will-tell-you/
Thanks,
Lainie
What a wonderful list – I can’t wait to once again try out a pair of sandals. I’ve been wearing carbon fiber AFO’s for about 12 years now and have never been successful with wearing sandals. Now I know were to look for 1. stylish sandals that come in wide; 2. ones with a front toe strap adjustment (this is usually my biggest issue, and 3. Numbers 1 & 2 plus Velcro. Thanks for all your work on theses sites – they are truly wonderful! BTW, I was misdiagnosed with CMT in my mid 40’s (I’m now 60) and at that time was told there was nothing they could do for me so like you, I adjusted my lifestyle and learned to live with it. Just 2 years ago I was told it was CIDP, not CMT and was tested and sure enough, not CMT! Unfortunately, the immunotherapy that I’ve been receiving is no longer working since it is most effective in the first 2-3 years of diagnosing CIDP – so it goes. At least I’ll be ‘stylin’ in a new pair of comfortable sandals! Thanks so much
Michele,
Thank you for your fabulous comment! I can’t believe you were misdiagnosed with CMT for so long! Your positivity is awesome!! Please please lmk how it goes with those sandals. Did you read this post? Remember to pad the foot plates. You can also pad your front toe ahead of time. https://trend-able.com/7-hacks-for-orthotics- Thanks for the appreciation – its all worth it when I get messages like yours ? Lainie
Michele,
Did you receive my response? I don’t see it here?
Lainie,
Thank you, thank you, thank you! I received my sandals the other day and absolutely love them! I purchased #1and #7 and wore one pair the first day and the second pair the very next day – what a great feeling. Thanks so much for providing m with the inspiration to once again wear sandals! I even got a pedicure! I haven’t had a reason to get one in so long, what a blast. BTW, I live in southern California so I can now wear sandals for most of the year – guess I have more shopping to do! 🙂 (But I was born in Detroit, “motor city”, MI)
Hi Michele,
This made my night! I’m so glad you love the sandals you ordered & are rocking them with freshly painted toes. ??. I remember well when I first wore sandals with braces. It was such a freeing & awesome feeling. I do think it’s totally unfair that you, a former Detroiter now gets to live in Cali. I’m beyond jealous that you won’t need my boot recommendations ?. ??Lainie
I just found your website and I feel that it is the most realistic to me. I too am a social worker out in VA, but I work in medical social work. I have been wearing AFOs since the begining of time, as I have spina Bifida and am a mobile walker. I am in the original hard plastic kind. I had lower leg atrophy when I was younger so the leg I wear a brace on is smaller/thinner then my other leg. I actually wear only one orthotic and am able to wear the same size and width as the other shoe. I’m not sure if I could ” upgrade” into another type of orthotic, but I will definitely be looking into that. Nevertheless, my question is how would you suggest I could make flat, closed toe, cute shoes (work casual) without laces or straps keep my orthotic in the shoe. I have tried the double sided velcro ( maybe I’d did it wrong), but it didnt seem to work effectively in making me feel secure with my foot staying in my shoe. Any suggestions are welcomed. I have figured out how to make saddles and boots work with some adjustments, but the flats that is the true struggle. Thanks in advance!
Hi Nadine,
Thanks so much for writing & for the nice words. So, are you referring to your orthotic slipping around in the shoe? If yes, the double sided tape or Velcro should work. Make sure to use double sided sticky velcro. I would also buy flat closed shoes with straps like maryjanes or have a shoe peddler attach velcro across the shoe to hold your foot in. I have a new post in two weeks with tons of fall shoes that will likely work but feel free to email me directly at info@trend-able.com. If you have any other questions . Thanks , Lainie
Lainie,
I love the shoe suggestions “16 Sandals”, I am a shoe person, and love sandals as we live in Florida during the winter and Vermont in summer.
I have written a few times but this time I’m feeling very out of it…I can’t seem to understand your directions for wearing some of the shoes mentioned above. I love the Alegria, and Earth Connie shoes.
I wear Allard braces, Blue Rocker for walking and golf, but most of the time I wear my Ypsilon with Naot sandals. Here’s what I don’t get about above shoes, for the most part, many shoes do not have removable soles, but you are able to wear these shoes. After you glue a thin layer over your brace plate, you place over inside shoe orthotic, but does your weight alone once you put your foot into shoe, does it keep the brace from moving??
Be patient with me I older and my 77 year mind is not as sharp, but I want to continue learn!!! Thanks so much Sandy
Hi Sandy,
Thanks for reading, commenting , & being a loyal follower ?. I’m glad you asked the questions as I want it to be clear for you.
First, once you have the insole glued to the metal footplate, the brace should not move around. That hack is primarily for people who wear custom orthotics (not braces) that they need to take in & out of shoes. Your braces shouldn’t slide in the two pairs you like but they may or may not be wide enough depending on your foot. The Earth come in wide (don’t get regular) and the Aetrex run wide…I suggest ordering 1/2 size larger in both since not extra wide. Let me know how it goes! ?
Does #8-David Tate Supurb- come in any other color than black and white? I have to have the closed heels so my orthotics don’t slip out…
How do I place an order?
Hi Patricia,
If you click on the photo itself, it will take you directly to the Retailer?. I believe it came in several colors. Have you ever tried putting something in the heel so it doesn’t slip? Feel free to reach out to me .
Lainie,
You are so cleaver to find these for us! I have carbon fiber afos now but an interested in the “thin foam liner” you glue in yourself. Where do you get them?
Thanks again & again,
Cyndi
Hi Cyndi,
I used a thin foam one like the ones you find in gym shoes or any shoes that you buy. The kind you remove from shoes put on the footplate to cushion your feet. I can send you a photo through messenger .xo
Hi! I have been searching high and low for shoes for my AFO. I found a pair of New Balance I love on Amazon. They are wide. I also found some cute sandles by Alegria. They are the Jenna Gladiators. They do not come in wide. However I am having a local shoe store stretch them for me. I’m praying this will help. They are on Amazon. Hope this helps somebody looking for cute sandles! I’m so glad I found this site it gives me hope that I can wear sandles again! Take care.
Christine,
???? You’re not the only one. I was in Nordstrom & informed the sales person that they were removable. It does make a HUGE difference for me too so I’m happy you now know. Thank you for your continued support & sweet words. ?❤️
Wow, great blog Lainie! My mind was totally blown when I read about Naot’s (removable) cork & latex sole. You see, my mom gave me a pair of Naot sandals about 5 yrs. ago and this WHOLE TIME I didn’t know the sole was removable!! Even today when I took pics of them to reply to your FB video with my afo’s and custom orthotics, I didn’t realize THE FOOTBED WAS REMOVABLE, LOL!! It makes a HUGE difference for me with the extra depth. I just can’t thank you enough for all your hard work on TREND/ABLE. Your positive words and attitude have helped me more than you could ever know. Sending you a Big Hug.
I am new to wearing a AFO for foot drop and was told I couldn’t use it with sandals. I was encouraged by your website and ordered the Naot Amadora Slingback sandal. When it arrived I could not figure out how to remove the footbed. I also checked the Naot sandals I already own but couldn’t see how the foot bed could be removed from them either. (They all have a strap between the big toe and next the next one.) I immediately returned the Amadora sandals, alas. How do you remove the footbed and can it be removed from sandals with a thong toe strap?
Hi Eleanor,
I’m really happy you found the website but bummed that the Sandals didn’t work for you. I just verified on the Naot website (I was worried I made a mistake ) and the footbed on that sandal is removable. All you do is lift it out. Not all styles of Naot have removable footbeds! I do not recommend thong sandals of any kind and you will never see any on the website as people with foot drop tend to have too many toe issues (mine are funky) to make them work without pain. Please reach out anytime directly if you want an opinion on another shoe ??
Thanks so much Erika for taking the time to comment. ??
Thank you so much for all your help!
I love your style picks! I’d like to choose one but all of them are so beautiful to pass on. Great effort on putting all of these together.
Thanks for these sandal ideas. The link for #16 is to an Alegria sandal, but not the sandal pictured. Would love to know what the sandal pictured #16 is.
Hi Gayle- Did you get my private email response? I corrected the link.
Hello, you have very large and beautiful collection of sandals. I like the #7 most. I want to try this, it looks very stylish. Thank you for sharing this amazing collection.
These tips are great! I love your idea. Sandals are very comfortable and you can wear it with every clothes and look beautiful + comfortable. Very nice blog, very creative and informative. So great and simple tips but also very helpful. Thank you! Comfortiva Eva Wedge is my choice 😉 And yours?
#8 spoke to me and are now winging their way to me! Thank you as always, Lainie, for your research and insights. I can only imagine how much work went into this post! (PS: It has gotten hot here in Seattle and I am sooo much happier wearing sandals! Plus we are going to Florida a week from now for the NCAAs in rowing (my daughter) and I now prepared for the heat there, too!)
Reeve,
Did they worka? You’re so welcome and I’m so happy for you?? ??????.
Sorry Reeve – obviously I meant work?
These David Tate (#8) sandals do work very well with several types of braces. I have trouble seeing how some of the other styles without a closed back work? I’ve tried a few and I guess they work but I feel the closed back sandal is more secure. I wish they made cuter, dressier options! Luckily, this particular sandal (snakeskin pattern) has served me very well when paired with a navy jumpsuit (another tip I got from this site) for a wedding and an engagement party. I also think they’ll look cute with white jeans.
Hi Dara,
Thanks so very much for your input. I love those versatile David Tate one’s too!. You know what works for you & what you feel comfortable with best. These are only Afo friendly suggestions ?. Some people find an open back to work & feel secure when there is an ankle strap or tie as seen in several pairs. I would love to help you find dressier options that work for you. Feel free to send me an email. Btw – The snakeskin would look really great with white jeans & I’m sooo glad the jumpsuit worked. ??
I love the idea, but I’m missing something. I am new at this, I have MS….and summer upsets me largely over the shoe issue. I would love some help, may I please contact you directly!?
Stephanie,
Anytime- You can email me at info@trend-able.com. We can start there & find a time to talk if needed ?
I have foot drop and wear a Walk On Flex carbon fiber AFO that curves upward behind my ankle. When I first get my new AFO, I have them cut a notch in the foot plate right between my big toe and the one next to it. I find t-strap sandals that slide into the notch, but I have to have sandals that have a back strap with a buckle that helps hold the sandal on. Sometimes I use a small rolled piece of duct tape to keep the back of the plate from sliding around, but I like the idea of the sticky back Velcro and will have to try it. A few cons is that the foot plate often rubs into the straps causing them to break, so if you find sandals that work, buy several pair. My foot swells a lot, so the straps can sometimes become too tight if I am on my feet for a bit. My warranty for the brace is void once I have the notch cut in the foot plate, but it is completely worth it to have some normalcy and feel stylish once in awhile. I took a picture hoping I could attach it to this post to show the notch but there was no picture option. I did find a pair of Keen sandals with a slightly closed toe and Velcro ankle straps that I can wear outdoors but are comfy at work too. I have to agree that it is pretty frustrating to find cute shoes and I’m always on the look out, so thank you for your post.
I’d love a picture of this notch. My teen daughter wears the same Walk On Carbon fiber brace.
Hi Heather, It doesn’t show me what photo you are referring to? Also not sure what you mean by “notch”?
Heather,
I tried to email you the picture of the notch I make in my sandal. Hope it came through to you.
Thanks so much for this list. I currently wear plastic clunky AFOs but am getting new carbon fiber ones in the next 2 weeks. I haven’t worn sandals in years but hope with the new AFOs I can!
Most people wear the clunky old fashion kind. The last time I went and had another AFO made the guy who was making mine told me almost anyone with drop foot/club foot has to wear the original AFO – also many people who have to wear AFO’s have other things with their feet and open toe sandals are a no go- show me 16 flat comfortable closed toes and that would be something – currently I found 3.
Hi Amy,
Thanks for writing. I’m not sure why as you say “most people with drop foot have to wear the original Afo?” In my opinion, this is ridiculous as bracing styles & materials have evolved in the last few decades and their are slternatives that are lighter & better. I have a progressive condition and started out in the original kind myself. I think possibly part of it is money (they get more for those custom plastic kind) and the fact that people just need a 1 week certificate to fit braces these days. I actually learned that my own “orthotist” isn’t an actual orthotist recently. I hope the 3 pairs work for you. Also check out “Cosy Feet” as they have many styles that should work.
I need closed toe sandals/shoes also. Any suggestions. I wear a hard AFO brace from my toes to my knee and have awful bunions / ugly feet. Also need 4E Width due to brace.
Thank you for giving me hope that I may be able to get out of my New Balance white tennis shoes. I wear them year round.
Sincerely,
Tunya S.
Hi Tunya,
I seriously think Podiatrist’s get some sort of major kickback for keeping Afo wearers in New Balance sneakers ?. Yes,there are other options & I would love to help! Please reach out via email or our Facebook page if you have any questions. Xo LAinie