This post was previously published and has been updated as of May 2023 to include current information, styles, and shopping links related to stylish AFO-friendly sandals. We may embed affiliate links offering a small commission. These links do not impact the buyer in any way, but they do help us to offset some of our website expenses and indulge in an occasional Starbucks skinny vanilla latte.
Introducing Spring & Summer 2023’s most comfortable and trendiest sandals for AFOS and orthotic wearers! 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. Trust us, it was no easy feat!
Now, you might be wondering why we’ve given our post the catchy title “16 Sandals/Candles” when Molly Ringwald and the world of footwear have no connection whatsoever. Well, we simply couldn’t resist the allure of the name, and we hope it adds a touch of whimsy to our annual sandals post. But fear not, if you’re here solely for the shoes, feel free to hit that fast-forward button.
If you stumbled upon this blog by Googling “orthopedic sandals” or “sandals to wear over leg braces,” then you’re likely familiar with the struggle of finding stylish shoes that accommodate leg braces. We understand your pain, and that’s precisely why Trend-ABLE is here to save the day, just like Jake Ryan in 16 Candles (albeit a bit of a stretch 😂). Say goodbye to exhausting and disheartening mall trips – we’ve got you covered!
All of the online stores we recommend offer easy, no-hassle returns by mail. But first, if you have no clue how to even wear sandals with leg braces, we suggest you read our post on, 7 Life-Changing AFO & Orthotic Shoe Hacks, before shopping our links below.
While there may be limited shoe brands specifically catering to leg brace wearers, the good news is that many of today’s trendy shoe designs seamlessly accommodate AFOS and orthotics. So, 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.
Without further ado, we present our 16 hand picked selections (in no particular order) of the most adorable AFO-friendly sandals for the season. Remember to click on the images or bolded text below to shop and explore further. You’ll find all the links to our favorite sandals of the season at the bottom of this post.
Now, let’s dive right into our top 16 Sandals…
Introducing the Shay Sandal by Munro, a true gem for those seeking comfort and style while accommodating leg braces. Crafted with a focus on functionality, this triple-strap sandal boasts two adjustable hook and loop straps, allowing for a customized fit to accommodate different leg brace needs. The tumbled leather material is not only incredibly soft but also highly versatile, making it a perfect choice for pairing with casual jeans or breezy summer dresses.
What sets the Shay sandal apart is its exceptional shock-absorbent and flexible design, providing enhanced stability and support as you go about your day. It’s a reliable companion for those who value both comfort and fashion.
Furthermore, Munro understands the importance of inclusivity, offering the Shay sandal in wide and extra wide EE width sizes, ensuring a comfortable fit for various foot shapes and sizes. Embrace the confidence that comes from wearing a sandal designed with your needs in mind, without compromising on style.
Introducing the Tamara Adjustable Sandal by Spenco, a remarkable blend of comfort and feminine athleisure style. This super comfy sandal offers an unbeatable level of comfort while exuding a versatile charm that effortlessly transitions from day to night, making it perfect for both weekdays and weekends.
Designed with a flat sole, the Tamara sandal provides a level of stability and support that is unparalleled. Its sleek and streamlined silhouette ensures a snug fit, allowing you to confidently go about your activities without sacrificing comfort.
Spenco understands the importance of inclusivity, and that’s why the Tamara sandal is available in a wide width, ensuring a comfortable fit for a variety of foot shapes and sizes. Embrace the freedom of movement and unparalleled comfort that this sandal provides, allowing you to enjoy each step with confidence and style, no matter the occasion.
Introducing the River Shoe by Billy Footwear, a classic water shoe with a touch of Billy Footwear’s adaptive shoe flair. Designed with durability in mind, these River sandals combine faux leather and elastic materials, ensuring long-lasting wear. The rubber outsole provides excellent traction, offering stability and grip, even on wet surfaces.
What sets the River Shoe apart is its customizable fit. With an adjustable bungee, you can easily personalize the fit to accommodate different foot shapes and sizes, providing a secure and comfortable feel. The awesome zipper opens up the show completely, allowing for effortless on and off, making these sandals an ideal choice for those with leg braces.
Inclusivity is a top priority for Billy Footwear, and that’s why the River Shoe is available in wide width sizes.
Embrace the combination of style, functionality, and adaptability that these sandals offer, and confidently enjoy your water adventures with comfort and ease.
Introducing the Marlins Sandal by Easy Spirit, your go-to choice for sophistication and coolness without compromising on comfort. The Marlis sandal features a chic strappy design that effortlessly elevates any outfit.
What sets the Marlins Sandal apart is its exceptional arch support, ensuring all-day comfort for those with leg braces. Say goodbye to discomfort and hello to style and stability. With an easily adjustable ankle strap, you can achieve a custom-like fit, tailoring the sandal to your specific needs.
Easy Spirit understands the importance of inclusivity, which is why the Marlins Sandal is available in wide width sizes. Embrace the perfect combination of style and comfort, allowing you to confidently take on any adventure that comes your way. Step out in the Marlins Sandal and experience the joy of fashionable footwear without sacrificing your well-being.
Introducing the Downey Sandal by David Tate, a stylish and versatile sandal that effortlessly complements any outfit. With its relaxed vibe and adjustable hook and loop straps, the Downey offers a customized fit to accommodate various leg brace needs.
Step into comfort with the soft leather-covered foam footbed, providing cushioning and support throughout the day. The lightweight grip sole ensures stability and ease of movement, making the Downey Sandal a perfect choice for everyday wear for most AFO wearers.
But that’s not all! The Downey Sandal is available in a range of fun colors, including vibrant options like hot pink. Add a pop of personality to your ensemble while enjoying the comfort and style this sandal brings.
David Tate prioritizes inclusivity, offering the Downey Sandal in both wide and extra wide width sizes. Embrace the relaxed elegance and functionality of the Downey Sandal, and step out with confidence and flair.
Introducing the Trotters Tiki Laser Sandal, a delightful choice that instantly ignites joy with its charming design. This rugged yet effortlessly chic sandal features an embossed synthetic upper and a convenient hook and loop closure, ensuring a secure fit.
Designed with a round open toe and a flattering slingback strap, the Tiki Laser sandal combines style and functionality in one package. The anti-slip rubber sole provides excellent grip and stability, offering confidence with every step.
But the comfort doesn’t stop there. The molded EVA footbed, memory foam midsole, and molded heel ensure all-day comfort, making the Tiki Laser Sandal perfect for your summer adventures.
Inclusivity is a top priority, and that’s why the Tiki Laser Sandal is available in wide and extra wide width sizes, ensuring a comfortable fit for various foot shapes and sizes. Slip into these sandals and experience the joy of both style and comfort as you embark on your summer escapades.
Introducing the Miami Sandal by Revere Shoes, where comfort meets style in perfect harmony. Crafted with premium hand-crafted leather, this sandal offers a luxurious feel while ensuring durability for years to come.
The Miami sandal features fully adjustable hook and loop closures, allowing for a customized fit that accommodates different leg brace needs. What sets it apart is the completely removable footbed, providing versatility and the option to use personal orthotics if desired.
With its timeless beauty and exceptional craftsmanship, the Miami Sandal is a statement piece that will elevate any outfit. Revere Shoes understands the importance of inclusivity, offering this gorgeous sandal in a wide width, ensuring a comfortable fit for individuals with wider feet. It also comes with extra strapping for those needing even wider widths.
Indulge in the comfort and style of the Miami Sandal, and experience footwear that not only looks great but also supports your individual needs. Walk with confidence, knowing that you have a sandal that combines fashion and functionality flawlessly.
Introducing the Neila Sandal by Naturalizer, a stylish and artisanal-inspired footwear that will quickly become your go-to choice. These women’s sandals are designed with intricate braided details, adding a touch of craftsmanship to your ensemble.
With their comfortable and casual espadrille style, featuring a raffia bottom, the Neila Sandals are perfect for those seeking a relaxed yet fashionable look. The leather or suede upper, combined with an open toe design, enhances breathability and comfort.
Experience a personalized fit with the adjustable buckle closure, allowing you to customize the sandal to your liking. The Neila Sandal is equipped with Contour+ Comfort technology, providing a premium fit and all-day comfort experience. The EVA footbed further enhances the cushioning and support, ensuring a pleasant walking experience.
Naturalizer understands the importance of inclusivity, offering the Neila Sandal in wide width sizes. Embrace the combination of style, comfort, and functionality that these sandals offer, and enjoy every step with confidence. Elevate your summer wardrobe with the Neila Sandal, your new favorite companion for all-day comfort and fashionable flair.
Introducing the Teili Sandal by Sofft, where comfort meets modern sophistication. The Teili Sandal features softly draped asymmetric bands crafted from luxurious suedes, providing both style and undeniable comfort.
Designed with your comfort in mind, this sandal boasts a cushioned footbed that offers a plush feel with every step. The lightweight and flexible sole enhance the easy-to-wear comfort, making the Teili Sandal perfect for warm weather days and long walks.
The Teili Sandal is available in both wide and extra wide width sizes. Embrace the combination of elegance, comfort, and versatility that this sandal offers, allowing you to step out in style and confidence.
Introducing the Kitly Way Sandal by Clarks, your perfect companion for confident strides during the summer season. This functional yet feminine sandal offers unparalleled support for busy feet, ensuring both comfort and style.
Featuring a targeted cushioned footbed, the Kitly Way sandal provides exceptional comfort with each step, making every walk to the beach or down the street a joyous experience. The adjustable straps allow for a customized fit, ensuring both style and security.
Equipped with grippy rubber outsoles, these sandals offer excellent traction and stability, providing a comfortable and safe fit for any adventure.
The Kitly Way Sandal is available in wide width sizes, ensuring a comfortable fit for various foot shapes and sizes.
Step confidently into summer with the Kitly Way Sandal by Clarks, and enjoy the perfect blend of functionality and femininity as you embark on your stylish and secure journeys.
Introducing the Whetu Sandal, a comfortable and stylish everyday companion that prioritizes adjustability and support. With its triple hook and loop closures and gore, this sandal allows for full customization, ensuring a perfect fit.
Naot’s dedication to comfort shines through in the Whetu Sandal. The removable, anatomic cork and latex footbed, wrapped in pampering suede, provides unparalleled support and molds to the shape of the foot with wear. Say goodbye to discomfort and hello to all-day comfort.
The Whetu Sandal belongs to Naot’s Koru Collection, featuring a lightweight and durable 1″ polyurethane sole that offers excellent slip resistance. The hand-sewn Strobel construction enhances the sandal’s strength and flexibility, ensuring it can keep up with your active lifestyle.
Additionally, the footbed is removable, allowing for personalized orthotic use or easy cleaning.
Indulge in the comfort, adjustability, and durability of the Whetu Sandal, and experience the perfect blend of style and support for your everyday activities. Step out with confidence, knowing that your feet are well-cared for in these exceptional sandals.
Elevate your comfort and style this summer with the Quan Sandal by David Tate. This sandal features a stretchy upper adorned with embellished circular appliques, adding a touch of elegance to your look.
The adjustable design ensures a personalized fit, accommodating various foot shapes and sizes. Step with confidence knowing that the dual-density unit bottom sole provides stability and slip-resistant tread, keeping you steady on your feet.
David Tate understands the importance of inclusivity, offering the Quan Sandal in wide and extra wide widths. Embrace the perfect combination of comfort, style, and functionality, and step out in confidence wherever your summer adventures take you.
Introducing the side-zip sandals that are ready to elevate your sunny-season style, the Perforated Studded Sandals by Miz Mooz. These sandals feature stylish studded leather straps with eye-catching perforated details, adding a touch of sophistication to your ensemble.
Crafted with signature Miz Mooz European leather, these sandals not only provide style but also ensure exceptional quality and durability. They effortlessly elevate every look, whether you’re wearing a flowing maxi dress or rocking white denim.
Miz Mooz understands the importance of inclusivity, offering these sandals in wide width sizes, ensuring a comfortable fit for a range of foot shapes.
Embrace the versatility and elevated style of the Perforated Studded Sandals by Miz Mooz, and step into sunny days with confidence and flair. They are ready to accompany you on all your summer adventures while making a fashion statement.
Introducing the gorgeous therapeutic sandal by Drew, where style meets comfort in perfect harmony. This sandal offers a host of benefits for those seeking therapeutic footwear.
Featuring thick, padded, and removable footbeds, these sandals provide exceptional cushioning and support. The adjustable straps allow for a customized fit, ensuring maximum comfort throughout the day.
Drew’s Walk Right Technology footbed takes comfort to the next level, offering energy return, shock absorption, and extra support. This footbed can also be removed, accommodating your own custom orthotic if needed, for a truly personalized fit.
Drew understands the importance of inclusivity, offering this sandal in wide and extra wide width sizes. Embrace the combination of style, comfort, and functionality that this sandal provides, allowing you to step out in confidence and alleviate foot-related discomfort.
Experience the beauty and therapeutic benefits of the Drew sandal, and indulge in footwear that not only looks great but also supports your feet’s individual needs.
Elevate your step with the Teva Midform Sandals, designed to bring a spring to your stride. These platform sandals feature a neutral ankle strap that offers full support, comfort, and style, ensuring you can walk with confidence.
With a convenient velcro strap closure, these sandals provide an adjustable fit to suit your preferences. The Teva Midform Sandals are not only stylish but also practical, as they are waterproof and heatproof, making them suitable for various environments and weather conditions.
Although Tevas do not come in wide sizes, these sandals are designed with long straps that can accommodate many AFOS, ensuring a comfortable fit for those who wear leg braces.
Step into the Teva Midform Sandals and enjoy the perfect combination of style, support, and versatility. Let your feet embrace the comfort and fashion-forward design of these platform sandals as you navigate through your daily adventures.
Step into the epitome of warm-weather style with the Zion Gladiator Sandal by Cobb Hill. This flat sandal embodies the essence of summer with its gladiator design.
Featuring beaded embellishments and a subtle shimmer, the Zion Gladiator Sandal offers high style that effortlessly elevates any outfit. But style is not the only focus here—this sandal also prioritizes comfort.
With ample arch support and island foam cushioning, your feet will experience unparalleled comfort with every step. The soft lining and cushy, arch-supporting footbed further enhance the overall comfort of this dreamy faux-leather gladiator sandal.
Delicate beadwork on the vamp adds an extra touch of detail and elegance to this stunning sandal.
Cobb Hill understands the importance of inclusivity, and that’s why the Zion Gladiator Sandal is available in wide width sizes, ensuring a comfortable fit for a variety of foot shapes.
Embrace the perfect blend of style and comfort with the Zion Gladiator Sandal by Cobb Hill, and step out with confidence and elegance all summer long.
Just like the iconic movie “16 Candles,” where Samantha’s unique journey unfolds, fashion-forward women with disabilities can also embrace their individuality and shine brightly. Our 16 sandals curated specifically for leg braces are here to help you step into each day with confidence and style.
Remember, just as the right pair of shoes can transform an outfit, they can also empower you to conquer any challenge that comes your way. So go ahead, rock your favorite sandals, embrace your inner fashionista, and let your footwear be the perfect “sole” mate on summer journeys.
So, cheers to 16 candles and countless fashionable steps ahead!
Be sure to follow our Facebook and Instagram pages to discuss this post and interact with other perfectly imperfect members of the Trend-Able Tribe. And, If the change of season is bumming you out, you may appreciate our post on tips for getting out of a spring self-pity rut if you have a disability and wear afos.
Remember, every disability and person are different. What works for me may or may not work for you. As one of the t-shirts in the Trend-Able Shop says, “If you can’t go right, go left.” The point is to keep trying and never give up.
Xoxo
Lainie
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