Disclaimer: This post was originally published years ago and has been lovingly updated in May 2025 with the latest styles, info, and shopping links for AFO-friendly sandals. Heads up: this post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you shop through them. Don’t worry, it won’t cost you anything extra—but it does help keep this site running (and occasionally fuels my Starbucks skinny vanilla latte habit).
Yes, they actually exist—and no, they’re not all orthopedic eyesores.
Hey there!
Before we dive into the most stylish and comfortable sandals of 2025 for AFO (leg brace) and orthotic wearers, you might be wondering what Molly Ringwald and the movie Sixteen 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 ’80s movies.
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 not-so-fun scavenger hunt that is shoe shopping with AFOs or orthotics.
Yep—sandal shopping with foot challenges is no easy feat (pun 100% intended). If you’re still figuring out how to wear sandals with leg braces, check out this post: 7 Life-Changing AFO & Orthotic Shoe Hacks
The point is: I get it. And more importantly, I’ve got you.
Just like Jake Ryan showing up at the end of the movie to restore Molly’s faith in love (a stretch, sure, but stay with me), Trend-Able is here to restore your faith in finding cute sandals that actually fit. No more disheartening mall trips or clunky “comfort shoes” that make you feel invisible.
After hours of online sleuthing, real-person testing, and way too many returns, I’ve narrowed it down to 16 pairs of stylish, wide-width, AFO-accommodating sandals that deserve a spot in your closet.
Every spring, I refresh this list with my favorite 16 pairs—styles that are AFO-friendly, wide-width, and chic enough to make you feel like the confident, put-together babe you are (even if your feet have other plans). And for the seventh year in a row, I’m back with fresh picks that accommodate braces, orthotics, bunions, or just general foot rebellion.
If you wear AFOs, orthotics, or just need more comfort and room than the average sandal offers, this list is for you. Here’s what I look for:
- Extra wide-width sizing
- Removable footbeds, insoles, or extra depth for AFOs and orthotics
- Adjustable straps for the perfect fit
- Non-slip soles with actual grip
- Styles that don’t scream “old lady therapy shoe”
The 16 Best AFO-Friendly Sandals for 2025
Let’s get into the updated picks:
Click the bolded text or sandal images to shop directly from each retailer (most offer free and easy returns).
And don’t forget to scroll to the end of the post for a shopping widget packed with even more Trend-Able-approved summer sandal styles.
Okay… (insert drum roll here)… presenting the 2025 lineup of stylish sandals that love your braces (and your style):
Say hello to Propet’s Freya – a sandal that proves comfort doesn’t have to kill your vibe. With a sporty silhouette and a no-nonsense adjustable design, the Freya is basically the unicorn of AFO-friendly sandals: it actually comes in triple wide widths (yes, you read that right—triple). That kind of roomy real estate is almost unheard of, making this a game-changer for anyone rocking bulky orthotics or needing extra space without sacrificing style. Velcro straps? Check. Cushy footbed? Yep. Easy-to-wear colors? You bet. This sandal isn’t just wide—it’s widely adored.
If you want a sandal that doesn’t scream “I have footwear issues,” the Laprida by Wolky is your low-key bestie. It’s got a cloud-like cushioned footbed, a super lightweight sole, and straps that actually adjust enough to handle your brace—or just a swollen foot that’s having a day. The wide base and roomy design make it ideal for orthotics, AFOs, or feet that refuse to be squeezed into anything narrow. It looks modern and feels amazing, and that combo is basically footwear gold.
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.
Colorful, bold, and basically the extrovert of the sandal world, Alegria’s Valerie PG Lite is built like a supportive hug for your foot—minus the sweaty squeeze. The contoured, cushioned footbed offers serious all-day comfort (and yes, it’s removable if your orthotic or AFO needs to move in). With triple-strap adjustability and a generous width, it’s perfect for asymmetrical feet, braced ankles, or anyone who treats fit like a fine art. If your sandals could have a personality, this one would be loud, lovable, and always down for brunch.
The Rosie sandal by Earth is like your artsy friend who casually does yoga and always knows the best gluten-free bakery. With earthy vibes, a supportive sole, and straps that are easy to adjust even with dexterity issues, this sandal works great with AFOs but doesn’t make a big deal about it. The roomy fit offers plenty of space for braces or wider feet, and the subtle arch support and stylish details mean you can dress it up—or not. It’s quietly functional with just the right amount of flair.
Who says functional can’t be flirty? Journee’s Lyddia is basically the sandal version of that easy, breezy summer dress you reach for on every sunny day. It’s cute without trying too hard, with a cushioned footbed and velcro straps that adjust easily—perfect for AFOs, orthotics, or feet that like a little wiggle room. The wider fit means your brace won’t be battling for space, and the look? Totally crush-worthy. If you’re over clunky “comfort shoes,” this one brings the style without the struggle.
The Samira sandal by Easy Street gets the assignment—and turns it in early with extra credit. This slip-on style is ultra-lightweight (seriously, you’ll double-check if they’re even on), and the extra-wide fit means your toes and brace have all the breathing room they need—no pinching, squeezing, or negotiating required. The subtle embellishment adds just enough sparkle to dress them up for dinner out, but they’re still casual enough to rock with joggers or shorts. Fuss-free, flattering, and friendly to AFOs and fussy feet, Samira is that rare sandal unicorn: no straps to wrestle with and no compromise on comfort or style.
Equal parts elegant and functional, the Marabella by Ara has major “I summer in Italy” energy without sacrificing the stuff that actually matters—like shock absorption, AFO roominess, and straps you can manage without asking for help. It’s got a generously wide fit that doesn’t cramp your brace or toes, and while it looks like it has a chunky platform, the lightweight sole feels surprisingly flat and balanced—perfect for those of us who usually stick to flatforms or no lift at all. It’s classy, comfy, and practical in a way that feels almost suspicious. (But we checked—it’s legit.)
The Harmony RX by Vionic is what happens when an orthopedic shoe secretly wants to be a fashion influencer. It’s sleek and simple on the outside but quietly packed with features—like a contoured, podiatrist-designed footbed that supports your arches like a best friend with a physical therapy degree. The adjustable straps make it easy to accommodate AFOs or swelling, and the extra-wide fit means your brace won’t feel like it’s fighting for space. It’s stylish, supportive, and actually wearable—no runway required.
If “elegant but practical” is your whole vibe, meet If “elegant but practical” is your whole vibe, meet Munro’s Nissa. It’s well-made, beautifully structured, and has that rare combo of depth and width that actually works with AFOs, orthotics, or just wider, hard-to-fit feet. The velcro straps are super easy to manage (even when your fingers have decided they’re on strike), and the style is elevated enough to wear out to dinner without feeling like you borrowed your shoes from the physical therapy department. Fashionista-approved, comfort guaranteed.
The Naot Papaki is what happens when supportive design and effortless style decide to co-parent. That suede-and-leather mix? Instant upgrade. The hook-and-loop strap? A win for anyone whose hands don’t exactly love tiny buckles. But the real MVP is the removable cork-and-latex footbed—it molds to your foot over time and pops out easily to make room for an AFO or custom orthotic. It’s stylish, smart, and secretly super functional… like the Greek goddess of mobility (if that were a thing).
The Santorini by Revere is a Trend-Able favorite for a reason—it nails that elusive combo of sleek, secure, and not screaming “orthopedic.” It’s got a deep, removable footbed (perfect for fitting your own orthotics or AFO) and comes in new colors that are actually fun. Plus, the hook-and-loop straps are dexterity-friendly for those of us who can’t exactly do fine motor gymnastics anymore. They are currently on sale here. Use the code “Trend-Able” at checkout for an additional discount.
Revitalign’s Adele sandal walks the line between sporty and polished, which means you can wear it with everything from joggers to jeans to maxi dresses. It’s one of those rare unicorns that’s completely flat—ideal if even a hint of a heel throws off your balance or brace alignment. The footbed offers solid arch support and encourages better posture (bonus points!), while the extra-wide fit and adjustable straps make it AFO-friendly without the usual squeeze. Basically, this is your “errands to brunch to maybe a Target run” sandal—with comfort that sticks with you all day.
Drew brand’s Salina sandal isn’t out here chasing red carpet moments—but it is quietly crushing the supportive sandal game. With a deep, cushy footbed and multiple width options (yes, even extra wide!), it gives your AFO or orthotic the space it actually needs. The straps are easy to adjust and grip—even if your hands have a mind of their own—and the cute studded detailing adds just enough personality to make it feel like a style choice, not a medical one. It’s like that friend who’s not flashy but always shows up, looks great in group photos, and somehow makes practical look cool.
Athletic but not clunky, the Manifest sandal by Ryka gives major “supportive sneaker disguised as a sandal” energy—in the best possible way. It’s got all the structure and stability you need for walking with an AFO, plus a super roomy fit that works for wider feet or custom orthotics. The adjustable straps are easy to manage (even one-handed), and the overall feel is like a lightweight hug for your foot—secure, comfy, and totally unfussy. It’s the kind of sandal that makes you wonder why all “comfort shoes” aren’t this cute.
The Huggy sandal by Sass is basically the cozy blanket of the sandal world—but makes it fashionable. With ultra-soft cushioning, extra depth, and a super wide fit, it’s perfect for AFOs, orthotics, or feet that are just plain over being squished. The adjustable straps make it easy to lock in a secure fit (without a wrestling match), and the design—while simple—has a timeless, polished look that pairs just as well with jeans as it does with your “I’m just running to the store” outfit. It’s called Huggy for a reason—it wraps your foot in comfort and doesn’t let go.
The Huggy sandal by Sass is basically the cozy blanket of the sandal world—but makes it fashionable. With ultra-soft cushioning, extra depth, and a super wide fit, it’s perfect for AFOs, orthotics, or feet that are just plain over being squished. The adjustable straps make it easy to lock in a secure fit (without a wrestling match), and the design—while simple—has a timeless, polished look that pairs just as well with jeans as it does with your “I’m just running to the store” outfit. It’s called Huggy for a reason—it wraps your foot in comfort and doesn’t let go.
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