Disclaimer: This post was originally published years ago and has been lovingly updated in April 2026 with fresh styles, updated info, and current shopping links for AFO-friendly sandals. This post also contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you shop through them—at no extra cost to you. It just helps keep Trend-Able running and occasionally funds my Starbucks skinny vanilla latte habit.
Hey there,
Before we get into the best stylish and comfortable sandals of 2026 for AFO and orthotic wearers, you may be wondering what Molly Ringwald and Sixteen Candles have to do with shoes.
Absolutely nothing.
I just happen to love a catchy title and will take any excuse to reference one of my favorite ’80s movies.
But if you landed here after desperately Googling things like “sandals for leg braces,” “cute orthopedic sandals,” or “summer shoes for AFOs,” then you already know this is not exactly a fun little shopping trip.
Finding sandals when you wear AFOs, orthotics, or just need extra depth, stability, and adjustability can feel like a full-time job. There’s the ordering, the returning, the trying to figure out whether the sandal is actually deep enough, whether the straps will go over your brace, and whether the whole thing is going to look cute or just… defeat your spirit.
I get it. Truly.That’s why every year I update this post with my favorite stylish, wearable sandals that can work for AFOs, orthotics, bunions, swollen feet, or feet that are simply not interested in cooperating.
For the seventh year in a row, I’ve rounded up 16 pairs AFO-friendly pairs that are fashionable, functional, and far less likely to make you feel like you’re choosing between comfort and confidence.
Because yes, supportive sandals can exist without screaming “medical supply catalog.”
- Extra wide-width options
- Removable footbeds, insoles, or enough depth for braces and orthotics
- Adjustable straps for a more customized fit
- Non-slip soles with real grip
- Styles that feel current, cute, and actually worth wearing
Not every sandal on this list will work for every foot or every brace—and that’s normal.
AFO fit is always a bit of a “try and see” situation depending on your brace, your foot shape, and how much adjustability you need.
But every pair below checks at least most of the boxes: depth, adjustability, stability, and actual wearability.
And most importantly… they pass the “would I actually wear these out of the house?” Ok. Let’s do it.
Presenting…in no particular order,
The Best 16 AFO-Friendly Sandals Of 2026.
The “just throw it on and go” one.
This is that sandal you keep by the door because you don’t have the energy for anything complicated. It’s lightweight, simple, and actually cute in that effortless, “I didn’t overthink this” kind of way.
It comes in wide width (which we love), and the adjustability is what makes it work. You can loosen it when your feet decide to be dramatic—or tighten things up so it actually stays on and does its job. Not life-changing support, but enough to get you through a real day.
And here’s the underrated win: the sole is black. Which sounds small, but is actually kind of rare—and makes a big difference. It blends right in, so if you’re wearing it for something a little dressier, it doesn’t scream “casual sandal.” It just… works.
The footbed is not removable, so this isn’t your deep-AFO situation sandal. But if you need something easy, flexible, and not fussy? This one earns its spot.
AFO Fit Tip: Best for slimmer braces or days you just need something simple that adjusts and stays put without a fight.
The “just throw it on and go” one.
This is that sandal you keep by the door because you don’t have the energy for anything complicated. It’s lightweight, simple, and actually cute in that effortless, “I didn’t overthink this” kind of way.
It comes in wide width (which we love), and the adjustability is what makes it work. You can loosen it when your feet decide to be dramatic—or tighten things up so it actually stays on and does its job. Not life-changing support, but enough to get you through a real day.
And here’s the underrated win: the sole is black. Which sounds small, but is actually kind of rare—and makes a big difference. It blends right in, so if you’re wearing it for something a little dressier, it doesn’t scream “casual sandal.” It just… works.
The footbed is not removable, so this isn’t your deep-AFO situation sandal. But if you need something easy, flexible, and not fussy? This one earns its spot.
AFO Fit Tip: Best for slimmer braces or days you just need something simple that adjusts and stays put without a fight.
The “supportive… but still kind of cute” sandal.
This adjustable flat sandal has a built-in orthotic footbed and comes in wide width, which already puts it ahead of a lot of options.
The real win here is the adjustability. Not just for getting them on—but for actual, everyday life. Feet swell. Braces do their own thing. Some days everything just fits… differently. Being able to loosen a strap and keep going makes a bigger difference than you think. It also gives you a little extra flexibility with width, which we’ll take.
The footbed isn’t removable, so this isn’t your best option if you need a lot of depth. But if it works for your foot, it’s one of those easy, no-thinking-required sandals that looks pulled together without trying too hard.
AFO Fit Tip: Good for a bit of extra width and days when adjustability matters. Best for slimmer braces since the footbed stays in place.
The “could work for a dressy summer event” sandal.
This one leans a bit more polished than your everyday pair, mostly thanks to the metallic gold—it gives just enough of a dressy feel that you can wear it to something semi-formal without it looking out of place.
It’s not over-the-top or fancy, just a simple way to look a little more pulled together while still staying comfortable.
AFO Fit Tip: The removable footbed helps create extra depth, which can make a big difference for bulkier braces or anyone who needs a little more room.
The “I’m really cute and budget friendly” sandal.
This is one of those pairs that makes you do a double take—in a good way. It’s actually cute, has a trendy feel, and comes at a price point that doesn’t make you overthink it.
And here’s the thing a lot of people don’t say out loud: if you wear braces, the
shoe/sandal doesn’t need to be top quality leather as your braces are supposed to do the heavy lifting (pun intended😁). You just need a shoe that fits comfortably, stays on your foot, and doesn’t fight you.
This one does exactly that—while still looking put-together.
AFO Fit Tip: Order only in an extra wide size. Good for many (not all) slim carbon fiber style AFOs.
The “wait… this comes in extra wide?” sandal.
This one leans way more fashion than function—and honestly, that’s the point. The espadrille detail and clean front make it feel polished and summery, not orthopedic at all.
It’s one of those pairs that actually looks like something you want to wear… not just something that works.
That said, this is not your easiest option if hand strength is a factor. The buckle is small and takes a little effort.
But if it fits you well? It’s a really cute, elevated pick.
AFO Fit Tip: Best for lower-profile AFOs and for those who can manage the smaller buckle.
The “a little polished, still practical” one.
This one leans a bit more put-together than your everyday throw-on sandal. It has that slightly dressier vibe—nothing over the top, just enough to feel like you made an effort without actually trying that hard.
It comes in wide width, and the adjustability helps you get a more customized fit (which, let’s be honest, matters depending on the day). The straps keep your foot secure, so you’re not sliding around or fighting to keep it on.
The footbed is not removable, so it won’t give you a ton of extra depth—but if it fits, it’s comfortable and easy to wear for longer stretches without thinking about it.
AFO Fit Tip: A good option for slimmer braces or if you don’t need a ton of depth but still want something that feels a little more styled than your basic sandal.
This is that easy little sandal you grab when your brain says no decisions today… but you still want to look like a person who has their life together.
It’s simple in the best way. Clean lines, nothing fussy, and somehow it just works with everything—linen pants, a maxi, even your “I gave up but in a cute way” outfit.
It comes in wide width, and the slingback means no buckles, no drama. Just slide it on and go. The upper has a little give, which is key for real life—because feet swell, braces exist, and some days things just… don’t cooperate.
This isn’t a super structured, orthopedic-feeling sandal—and honestly, that’s the appeal. It’s more of a “please just fit and stay on my foot” situation. And it does.
AFO Fit Tip: Best for slimmer braces or lighter needs. The stretch helps, but if you need major depth or full adjustability, this probably isn’t your girl.
The “I’m polished, stylish and flat” sandal.
This one is proof you don’t need a heel to look put-together. It’s clean, minimal, and really cute—like the kind of sandal you throw on and instantly feel a little more styled without trying.
It’s fully flat (in a good way), easy to wear, and versatile enough to go with everything. It comes in wide width, and the real plus is the two adjustable straps, which help you get a better fit in both the front and the back.
AFO Fit Tip: Best to order this one in wide width and use those two adjustable areas to help with fit and comfort. A good option when you want something that feels a little more polished than your average comfort sandal
The “support but still cute” option.
If you want something that feels a little more polished but still gives you support, this is a strong middle ground. The footbed is stable, and the straps usually give enough adjustability without looking overly sporty.
AFO Fit Tip: Works best for slimmer AFOs or orthotics due to the more structured footbed.
The “I can be comfortable and also a little fun” sandal.
This one gives you the comfort and wide-width fit Trotters is known for, but with a little extra personality. It’s an easy way to not feel like you’re sacrificing style completely.
AFO Fit Tip: Great for width + everyday wear.
The “wait… this is actually cute?” one.
This is one of those sandals that does not scream comfort shoe—which is exactly why it made the list. It’s simple, clean, and actually feels styled. The kind of sandal you could
throw on with a dress and not immediately want to hide your feet under a table.
But here’s the deal—only order this in extra wide width. Not wide. Extra wide. That’s where this one starts to actually work instead of just looking good online.
You’ve got an adjustable ankle strap (always helpful for getting things on and keeping them there), and a slight lift that gives it a more elevated feel without tipping into “I regret this decision by hour two.”
No removable footbed here, so this isn’t your deep, bulky-brace option—but if you don’t need a ton of depth, it hits that sweet spot of stylish + wearable.
AFO Fit Tip: Go extra wide-width for the best chance at comfort. Great for a more streamlined brace or when you just want something that looks like a real outfit shoe—not a backup plan.
The “this will not fail me” sandal.
SAS is known for comfort and stability, and this one delivers both. It offers excellent cushioning, non-slip soles, and a secure fit that works well for longer days on your feet.
AFO Fit Tip: Great for stability and all-day wear.
The “you’ll still have these in five years” sandal.
Wolky’s Lisse is one of their newer styles—and it already feels like it’s going to stick around. It has that same supportive, dependable feel Wolky is known for, just in a slightly more updated, easy design.
Style-wise, it fits right into that elevated boho moment we’re seeing (and talked about in your spring fashion trends for AFO wearers post here). Effortless, a little relaxed, but still pulled together. Think flowy dresses, linen sets, soft layers… this just blends in without trying.
Function-wise, you’ve got multiple adjustable straps, which actually matter for real life—especially when your feet (or braces) decide to do their own thing throughout the day. The footbed is removable, giving you more depth and flexibility when you need it.
It’s supportive without feeling heavy, structured without looking orthopedic—which is not always easy to find.
Overall, a buy-once, wear-forever kind of pair.
AFO Fit Tip: Great if you need adjustability and a removable footbed. Best for moderate bulk—not the deepest, but more flexible than most.
This is one of those easy wins. The Skechers Easy Going Charm comes in wide width, is actually comfortable right out of the box, and doesn’t make you think too hard about it.
Style-wise, the soft pastel colors feel very now. It taps right into that lighter, spring palette we’re seeing everywhere—fresh, a little playful, but still simple enough to wear with everything.
And the price? This is your affordable moment. The kind of sandal you grab without overthinking… and end up wearing on repeat.
Function-wise, it’s lightweight, flexible, and easy to get on. Nothing complicated, nothing fussy.
AFO Fit Tip: Best for lower-profile AFOs. The wide width helps, but this isn’t a deep sandal—so think lighter, less bulky braces.
The “simple… but actually really good” sandal.
This is one of those sandals that doesn’t try to be trendy—but ends up working with everything anyway.
The neutral tone, clean straps, and low profile give it that easy, everyday look that just blends into your wardrobe. Casual, a little polished, and very wearable.
Where it really wins is function: multiple Velcro straps (yes, real adjustability), a soft cushioned footbed, and a design that’s genuinely easy to get on and off. No fighting with buckles, no overthinking.
It’s also lightweight, which matters more than people realize when you’re actually wearing something all day.
AFO Fit Tip: A great option if you need adjustability and ease. Best for lower to moderate profile AFOs—the straps help, but it’s not an ultra-deep sandal.
And… That’s a Wrap.
If you’re new here, this is what I do—I find things that are actually wearable, test them, overthink them, return half of them… and then share the ones that are actually worth it. So you don’t have to.
Save this post and come back to it when you need it. And if you find a pair you love? Grab them in multiple colors. Trust me on that one.
If you have a pair you swear by, drop it in the comments.
The best finds always come from all of us figuring it out together.
Xoxo
Lainie
P.S.
If you skipped to the end for the full list of AFO-friendly sandals for 2026—you’re my kind of person.
Click below to shop all 16 sandals (and a bunch more ). 👇
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