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‘It felt like wearing slippers’: The best orthopaedic shoes that feel and look good
We tested the leading brands to find the best for bunions and plantar fasciitis
Tested by Kim HawleySenior Health & Fitness Tester
If questionable shoe choices over the years have left your feet craving something more comfortable, it could be time to invest in a pair of the best orthopaedic shoes. These specialised shoes are built for stability and comfort – and these days, they look good, too.
If you suffer from more specific foot concerns, including bunions or plantar fasciitis, regular footwear may not offer the support you need. “They are made mainly for fashion, style and general comfort - with only very basic cushioning and standardised shapes that are often narrow in the toe area,” explains Podiatrist Margaret Dabbs, adding that they will have “little or no arch support and are designed for average feet without specific issues.” Instead, orthopaedic shoes are designed to help ease any discomfort – with wider toe boxes, breathable materials and arch support.
And with brands such as Skechers and Clarks offering orthopaedic shoes that look as good as they feel, you don't have to sacrifice style for comfort.
But with so many features and price points, how do you know which orthopaedic shoes are worth buying? To help you decide, our Good Housekeeping Institute experts and a panel of testers tried a range of the leading designs on for size. Here are their top buys in a handy list but keep scrolling for the full reviews.
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How we test the best orthopaedic shoes
Our in-house experts and a panel of testers, some with specific foot conditions including bunions and plantar fasciitis, trialled a range of orthopaedic shoes for a minimum of four weeks. They assessed each shoe based on a range of factors including comfort, stability and design.
First, our testers wore each pair during a range of everyday activities - from walking around town and commuting to spending long hours on their feet – to assess overall comfort. They paid close attention to how well the shoes cushioned the feet, whether they provided arch support, and how stable they felt throughout the day, particularly for anyone with existing foot concerns.
The fit of each shoe was also carefully evaluated. Testers noted whether there was any rubbing or pressure on the foot, as well as how roomy the toe box felt. Wider toe boxes were considered a plus, helping to reduce crowding, improve breathability and allow more natural movement.
Stability and support were another key focus. During longer walks and on uneven or rougher terrain, testers assessed how secure the shoes felt underfoot and around the ankle. They also considered grip and balance.
Finally, the overall design was taken into account. Were they easy to slip on and off, for example? And were they practical enough to wear on a day-to-day basis while still looking stylish enough to pair with smarter outfits if needed.
These are the ones that are genuinely good for the sole.
Vionic Walk Max II Lace Up Trainer
Vionic Walk Max II Lace Up Trainer
Pros
- Good grip for uneven surfaces
- Inner arch support
Cons
- Some rubbing when worn without socks
Score: 93/100
If you love long walks but find yourself suffering from sore feet in standard trainers, our expert found these shoes offered excellent arch support and a secure grip, even in wet and muddy conditions.
Our panel agreed, praising their comfort and fit. One tester noted how well the inner arch supported their foot, while others highlighted the trainer's flexible insole. Our panellists found them stable too, with our expert agreeing they would work for both everyday activities and people with more active lifestyles.
The design was also popular – they look like a classic trainer, with a mesh overlay and a chunky sole. One tester did complain about rubbing when worn without socks, so we advise adding a sock, at least until you break them in. On the plus side, they’re easy to get on and off, and the sizes range from 3 to 10.
Key specifications
| Materials | Breathable mesh fabric and durable synthetic rubber. |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 3 -10 |
Vionic Kearny Platform Lace Up Trainer
Pros
- Good stability
- Breathable
- They come in half sizes
Cons
- Limited ankle support
Score: 88/100
With a flexible midsole designed to absorb impact as you walk, these trainers claim to help reduce strain on the lower body. And our expert and panellists said they offered reliable support and stability throughout the day, with one person even telling us they felt like they were “wearing slippers.”
The panel also praised the lightweight, breathable design, which meant they were comfortable even in warmer conditions, as well as being stylish enough to wear everyday and travel in. This shoe scored highly for adjustability and fit, too – thanks to the flat laces, deep heel, and a wide size range, including half sizes.
They're probably not for longer walks and hikes, especially on uneven terrain, due to their limited ankle support. But overall, this is a stylish day-to-day option that you could also wear to the office.
Key specifications
| Materials | Leather and lace |
|---|---|
| Sizes: | 3-9 (plus half sizes) |
Skechers Slip-ins: Glide-Step Pro
Skechers Slip-ins: Glide-Step Pro
Pros
- Easy to get on and off
- 100% vegan
Cons
- Take a while to break in
Score: 88/100
If you’re always running out to the garden and just need something you can slip on, or if you struggle with laces, these trainers really do live up to their name. They’re easy to slip on, without having to retie the stretch laces, and they scored big on comfort and arch support.
True to size, our panel loved how simple they were to put on, with one person telling us they “slide on and off with ease and without damage to the shoe.” That said, some found them slightly tricky to adjust once tied, so get the fit right before you head out.
Made with vegan materials, the shoe’s cushioned insole is a standout feature, with our expert confirming they were comfortable to wear all day. While everyone rated the arch support as excellent, they took a while to break in for some - we suggest wearing them around the house with socks for a while first!
Key specifications
| Materials | Vegan textile, synthetics |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 3.5 -5 |
Skechers Slip-ins: Arch Fit Glide-Step Pro
Skechers Slip-ins: Arch Fit Glide-Step Pro
Pros
- Reduced plantar fasciitis pain
- Easy to slip on
Cons
- Rubbed on narrow heels
- Not waterproof
Score: 87/100
These orthopaedic shoes have a breathable, jacquard knit upper and look most similar to a regular trainer of the styles we’ve tried. Our panel praised the easy slip-on design, with many highlighting the cushioned feel underfoot. The well-contoured arch support also helped distribute pressure and boost overall comfort.
According to our expert, the built-in heel pillow not only keeps the foot secure but also makes the trainers easy to get on and off. Our expert found that they helped to reduce her plantar fasciitis pain while walking, as well as having a reliable grip.
They’re not waterproof, so we’d avoid any puddles, but for most testers, comfort was more of a priority, and they delivered. “They considerably reduced my foot pain,” one person told us, while others praised their supportive feel.
Key specifications
| Materials | Synthetic, jacquard knit upper |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 2 - 8 |
Sole Bliss Sprint: White Leather & Metallic
Sole Bliss Sprint: White Leather & Metallic
Pros
- Zip and lace design
- Wide toe box
Cons
- Loose around the heel
- Grip isn't sufficient for uneven surfaces
Score: 84/100
While pricey, these Italian-made everyday trainers are stylish, with white leather and a striped metallic design, but also podiatrist-approved. Our panel found them well-suited to wide feet and thought they were a good option for anyone suffering from plantar fasciitis or bunions.
Our expert also found them extremely comfortable for walking and everyday activities, thanks to their triple-layer cushioning and a bunion bed - stretchy material at the side of the shoe that cushions and supports bunions. She also noted the wider toe box, which leaves room for your feet to breathe, something one panel member with wide feet and bunions was a big fan of. “The trainer looked slim and smart,” they added, and the zip-and-lace design was a hit with most of the panel.
Some did find them a little loose around the heel, but there was no rubbing. Take note that these trainers are better suited to commuting and running errands, rather than anything too active, as they don't offer a lot of grip for uneven surfaces.
Key specifications
| Materials | Leather and metallic fastenings |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 3 - 10 |
Clarks Solevana Tie
Clarks Solevana Tie
Pros
- Wide toe box
- Stable on uneven surfaces
Cons
- Comfort over style
- No frills design
Score: 77/100
This is the most affordable orthopaedic shoe on our list, with a design that prioritises comfort over style. It’s lightweight with no frills, but there’s ample support provided inside.
Featuring the brand’s signature Pillowsoft footbeds, our panel found them extremely comfortable, even on long walks, with one even calling them the “most comfortable trainers I have ever worn.” The wider toe box also gives relief to anyone who suffers from bunions, helping to reduce pressure on the foot as it moves.
They remained stable on most surfaces, including in the rain. Some people would have preferred a slip-on trainer, rather than having to faff around with laces, but the soft outer layer added to the comfort levels and they’re easy to wipe clean after a muddy walk.
Key specifications
| Materials | EVA, Solvena foam |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 4-8 |
Pros
- Secure on wet and muddy surfaces
- No rubbing
Cons
- Chunky design
- Lacing issues which caused slipping
Score: 77/100
There was no rubbing with this shoe, which is likely due to the seam-free heel. And they scored big on comfort across the board, with extra brownie points for cushioning and breathability. Plus, our trainer socks also stayed put while we were out walking and running.
One tester, who wore them straight out of the box for a 7K hike, confirmed they didn’t need any breaking in, and they felt secure over wet and muddy surfaces.
For another, the lacing felt tight, but adjusting the fit gradually solved any slipping issues. Others found the design slightly chunky, but despite those niggles, this is a dependable walking and running shoe for under £100.
Key specifications
| Materials | Rubber and EVA |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 4-8 |
The verdict on the best orthopaedic shoes
If you’re looking for a supportive and stylish orthopaedic trainer, the VIONIC Walk Max II Lace-Up Trainer comfortably took the top spot with our testers. It strikes a balance between all-day comfort and good grip, with standout arch support and reliability over rougher terrain.
If you prioritise comfort over style, the Clarks Cloudsteppers Solevana Tie Shoes are a budget-friendly option. With a wide toe box, they’re perfect for walking on uneven surfaces and will keep your feet comfy all day.
Why trust the Good Housekeeping Institute?
With over 100 years of testing under our belts, we’ve got plenty of experience to draw on when it comes to analysing new launches, whether it’s the latest beauty releases, parenting essentials or wellness buys.
Our senior sleep and wellness tester, Kim Hawley, looks after all our health reviews. She designs strict protocols to make sure we’re judging each product fairly and analysing them against their claims. Kim holds a level 4 personal training qualification and has over 20 years’ experience working in leading health clubs across the UK.
Our wellness editor, Sarah Finley, then transforms Kim’s findings into easy-to-read, honest and accurate reviews so you can make an informed decision on your next buy.
Sarah has over 10 years' experience in health and wellness journalism, where she has interviewed hundreds of experts, including personal trainers and nutritionists, and written hundreds of product reviews, from the best dumbbells to the best yoga leggings.
How to choose the best orthopaedic shoes
Podiatrist Margaret Dabbs recommends looking for “a wide toe box to allow natural toe movement and prevent crowding, removable insoles and extra cushioning to absorb shock and reduce pressure on joints.”
If you’re hoping to protect your feet from any future issues, she adds that you should look for shoes with “strong arch support to help maintain proper foot alignment and a firm heel support for stability and balance. Adjustable closures (such as Velcro or laces) can also help the shoe fit better.
What brands have orthopaedic shoes?
Brands including Skechers, Sole Bliss, Clarks and Vionic all offer orthopaedic shoes. These vary a lot in price, design, comfort, grip and stability, so it’s worth considering what matters most to you.
What to consider when buying new shoes
“It’s particularly important that you choose footwear in a style that’s comfortable for your own feet, so pay attention to whether they suit wide or slim feet and avoid footwear that causes pain”, says Dabbs.
“Shoes that are too tight will cause secondary skin disturbances such as corns on the digits and between the toes, as well as hard skin. They can lead to ingrown toenails and increase the likelihood of bunions forming, making walking uncomfortable. On the other hand, shoes that are too large or too high can encourage clawing of the toes to keep the footwear on, and can cause injury from the risk of falling.
“Blisters are also a common issue, particularly when you’re wearing brand new shoes, or footwear that’s either too tight or too loose,” she adds. “Wearing shoes with bare feet (without tights) can also increase sweating, which raises friction and may cause blisters.”
What types of shoes can hurt your feet?
“Flat trainers, though comfortable, can lead to Plantar Fasciitis due to a lack of padding and arch support,” says Dabbs. “Heels shift your weight onto the ball of your foot, which can lead to hard-skin build-up, forefoot cramping and lower back pain. They also increase pressure on the big toe joint, exacerbating bunions and friction.”
Sarah is our wellness expert, specialising in expert-tested reviews and roundups on the latest health and fitness products. She can be regularly found on a yoga mat or training for a run, so she knows what to look for when it comes to the best yoga leggings, hydration vests or running trainers. From fitness trackers to the best supplements, she also has extensive experience writing about the latest products and writing detailed honest reviews.
Prior to joining the GHI, Sarah was a freelance journalist for 10 years, specialising in health, fitness and travel for national newspapers and magazine. During her time at Women’s Health, she interviewed celebrities about their fitness routines, for the Telegraph she investigated the health risks of Lime Bikes and visited Thailand to look at the trend of longevity travel - while for the London Standard she wrote about topics including AI powered PTs and smart ice baths.
When she isn’t testing out the latest smart watches, lifting weights at the gym, or hopping on a flight, Sarah can be found running around South London or devouring the latest trending TV show.
Kim Hawley is the Senior Health & Fitness Tester at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she leads the independent testing of health, fitness, wellness and sleep products using evidence-led protocols and her extensive industry expertise.
With more than 30 years' experience in the health and fitness industry, Kim has worked as a lead personal trainer, fitness instructor and health writer, teaching at some of London's leading health clubs, including The Harbour Club, David Lloyd and The Chelsea Club. Kim has a particular interest in women's health, especially pre-, peri- and post-menopause, and combines hands-on industry experience with rigorous product evaluation. From fitness trackers and smartwatches to home gym equipment, recovery devices, wellness tech, supplements and sleep solutions, she oversees comprehensive testing to help consumers make confident, informed purchasing decisions they can trust.
