If you find that your feet feel achy and painful after wearing regular trainers, the best orthopaedic trainers will make sure your feet are comfortable and supported. These trainers have been designed with comfort in mind with features such as additional arch support, special soles and sometimes a wider fit to accommodate your feet. Nobody's feet are the same, which is why there are different types of orthopaedic trainers to cater to the needs of your heels, soles and toes.
Trainers are a very versatile piece of footwear that can be worn casually with dresses and trainers for day-to-day errands, or you may associate trainers specifically for working out and achieving your fitness goals. However you choose to wear trainers, it's important to find ones that support and protect your feet, keeping them nicely cushioned and comfortable. People who suffer from conditions such as bunions, heel spurs, plantar fasciitis or foot neuropathy may find that orthopaedic trainers may be better for their feet and help with comfort and over time, may improve symptoms of certain conditions.
Best orthopaedic trainers UK at a glance
One of the biggest things that the best orthopaedic trainers provide is stability. As we get older, we’re not as stable on our feet as we once were so these trainers will aid you in keeping your footing. They are made to promote proper alignment of the foot and ankle to reduce the risk of you going over on your feet. Whether you’re after trainers for walking or to wear every day, orthopaedic trainers will provide your feet with the extra support they need.
From arch support trainers to support those with flatter feet to wider fitting trainers that have plenty of room in the toe box for your toes to spread out and breathe, we’ve rounded up all the best orthopaedic trainers in the UK that will ensure your feet are comfortable and supported every step of the way.
Best orthopaedic trainers UK
Best overall orthopaedic trainers
thefitville.uk
These podiatrist-approved FitVille Women's Rebound Core Shoes are just what you need to keep you in comfort all day long, whether walking or standing. You can bid farewell to cramped toes as it has an extra-wide toe box and a high instep that will give your toes plenty of wiggle room while boosting blood circulation. The U-shaped arch support insole combined with dual-density EVA and the EnergyWave pad will cradle your arches at every stride, and the heel ring maintains consistent gait posture, keeping you steady on your feet.
Customer reviews highly praise Fitville trainers for their comfort and quality. They accommodate wide feet, and wearers who suffer from occasional swollen ankles and other leg issues, such as plantar fasciitis, say these trainers have helped them walk further. Reviews indicate that Fitville trainers are worth the money, including comments saying they would purchase more pairs.
Pros
- Extra-wide toe box
- U-shaped arch support insole
- Two widths and three colours to choose from
Cons
- Designed with wider feet in mind so may not be for you if you are more narrow-footed
Sizes: | Wide, Extra Wide in UK 4-9.5 |
2.
Hoka Bondi 8
Best orthopaedic workout trainers
www.hoka.com
Just because you may need a little extra support and comfort from a pair of shoes doesn't mean you can't get a pair of workout trainers to cater to your needs. Hoka was one of the first footwear brands to have an endorsement from The Royal College of Podiatry for creating shoes that actively promote foot safety and well-being when keeping active to aid rehabilitation, plus minimise the risk of any future problems. The Bondi 8 shoes are great for those who need extra support while working out, as they provide a protective cushion from heel to toe with a rear crash pad for an incredibly soft and balanced ride.
With almost 10,000 customer reviews rating these Hoka trainers 4.3 out of 5, 82% of wearers would recommend them to a friend. Comments indicate that these are great trainers for walking, sports, and standing on your feet for long periods of time. Some wearers say the trainers were recommended by their podiatrist. However, there are several comments about the sizing being smaller than expected. The trainers are available in half sizes, so it may be worth purchasing half a size up from your usual shoe size.
Pros
- Plenty of cushioning
- Recommended by podiatrists
- Choice of colours and sizes
Cons
- Sizing comes up a bit small; it's worth trying a half size up from your usual shoe size
Best orthopaedic trainers for extended toe room
thefitville.uk
If you struggle to get your shoes on and off, the FitVille Women's EasyTop Wings have adjustable Velcro straps and an extra-wide opening for ease and allow for adjustments for high insteps and swollen feet. They have a solid rubber outer to provide a slip-resistant and reliable grip, plus a U-shaped heel cup that will cradle your heel. Arch support and a high rebound middle, evenly distributes any impact pressure. The upper is breathable mesh, keeping your feet cool and dry. The interior is seamless to prevent friction, which can lead to irritation associated with some medical conditions.
These Fitville EasyTop trainers have received overwhelmingly positive reviews for being excellent for anyone with swollen feet. They are also a good choice for individuals who struggle to put their shoes on. Bear in mind that these wide-fit trainers are designed more for comfort and medical conditions; they are not sports trainers.
Pros
- Designed for swollen feet
- Wide opening Velcro strap for easy on and off
- Friction-free cushioned collar and silky lining
Cons
- Standard fit not available
Sizes: | Wide, Extra Wide in UK 3.5-8.5 |
TESTED
With a breathable athletic mesh knit exterior, the Skechers Arch Fit trainers ensure plenty of room for your toes and feet while protecting them from the outside elements. They also have an arch-fit insole that offers podiatrist-certified support and is designed to mould to your feet to reduce shock and increase weight dispersion.
Skechers Arch Fit trainers are a firm favourite with Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles and her Mum, Angela. They've been wearing Arch Fit trainers for several years and have been Skechers devotees for many years. Angela is on her feet a lot with her job. Also, she has a metal rod in her ankle from a nasty break over 20 years ago. The injury causes swelling and pain. She's tried many shoes over the years and found Skecher Arch Fit the best. They are super lightweight, supportive and cushioned. Similarly, Natalie wears them because she walks several miles a day for fitness, and finds that Skechers enable her to walk further. It's the cushioning and their lightness that makes them stand out – it's like walking on air. They are breathable and cool to wear in the summer months. If you opt for the slip-on version, they are a doddle to kick on and off, making them a great casual shoe. The only caveat is with heavy wear; the trainers need to be replaced every six months. Natalie has worn through several pairs! Also, if you intend on doing sports, it's best to go for a lace-up trainer for extra support and adjustability. There are lots of styles available online, or go to your nearest Skechers store to try them on and find your perfect fit.
Pros
- Breathable athletic mesh knit upper
- Removable cushioned arch fit insole
- Lightweight cushioned midsole
Cons
- Limited sizes available online
Sizes: | Standard, UK 4,5,8 |
Best orthopaedic trainers for walking
www.widefitshoes.co.uk
The I-Runner Maria Walking Trainers have plenty of wiggle room thanks to their wide toe box, which provides plenty of space for potential swelling while feeling cosy and secure. There's also extra depth to give you room for any custom orthotics. Plus, extra padding in the heel and a secure structure to stop your feet from slipping and to encourage better posture.
The supportive lace-up makes them a good choice for walking, as it holds the structure of your foot in place. The upper combines leather and mesh, so they have some water resistance and breathability. Customer reviews praise these trainers for being sturdy, comfortable and well-made. However, a customer does comment that the trainers did not have enough grip on wet surfaces. For walking and general fitness, they're a quality option, with extra wiggle room to accommodate wide feet or insoles. Plus, there are lots of styles available from Wide Fit Shoes.
Pros
- Extra width and depth in toe box
- Made with breathable and water-resistant materials
- Extra padding in the heel
Cons
- A customer comments they didn't not grip so well on wet surfaces and mud
Sizes: | 4E, 6E, UK 3.5-8 |
RECOMMENDED
Best orthopaedic trainer for arch support
www.skechers.co.uk
The insole inside the Skechers Arch Fit - Big Appeal trainers offers podiatrist-certified arch support to go about your daily activities in extreme comfort. The insole also had air-cooled memory foam to prevent your feet from getting too hot and swelling. The athletic-style knit mesh fabric on the shoe's upper also helps keep your feet cool as it's nice and breathable. And if you do find they're starting to get on the stinky side after being well-worn, you can pop them in the washing machine to get them looking and smelling fresh again in no time.
As mentioned, above Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, and her Mum, Angela, are fans of Skechers. Angela has this particular pair for work. If you're standing for long periods of time, the Big Appeal trainers are a good option for both support and comfort. The black pair are discreet enough to wear in a workplace. The only thing to note is they will wear out quite quickly if they are getting heavy daily use.
Pros
- Wide choice of colours available
- Podiatrist-certified arch support
- Cooling memory foam sole
- Extremely comfortable and supportive
Cons
- Lifespan is around six months, with heavy use
Sizes: | Regular, Wide, UK 2-8 |
Best slip-on orthopaedic trainers
After a pair of comfy trainers, you can slip on for running errands day-to-day? The HKR Women Trainers with Memory Foam is a popular choice with Amazon customers, with over 14,470 reviews. They have a sock-like fit as they're made from a stretchy mesh knit material, so you can get them on if your feet are wider or swollen, and they have an elastic slip-on closure with a small tab at the back to make it easy to put on and off. The insoles are made with memory foam to soften your steps, and the durable, non-slip rubber outsole will keep you stable on your feet. The durable non-slip rubber soles offer great traction and stability on various surfaces. Versatile and practical, these shoes are ideal for walking, travelling and busy lifestyles. Plus, the affordable price and range of colours means you can have several pairs.
Customers comment that the trainers are comfortable and provide some pain relief for conditions such as plantar fasciitis. The price is amazing, and some reviews have compared them to Skechers. Whilst they are a great trainer for daily life, do note the upper does not have the support for intense workouts, sports or jogging. But this comfortable and stylish casual shoe does
provide pressure relief and arch support.
Pros
- Stretch fit and easy to put on and slip off
- Memory foam insole
- Non-slip, rubber outsole
Cons
- They may not offer as much support as a pair of trainers that has an adjustable fit
Sizes: | UK 3-9 |
Best orthopaedic trainers expert insight
We asked Superintendent Pharmacist Carolina Goncalves from Pharmica, who can benefit from wearing orthopaedic trainers and what foot conditions can be improved with this kind of footwear.
Carolina says, "orthopaedic trainers are excellent for anyone looking for footwear that protects the bones, ligaments and muscles in their feet.
"This doesn’t have to be individuals who have an existing injury, deformity or condition affecting the feet – it can also be anyone who wishes to prevent stress fractures from affecting the feet in the first place.
"Individuals who already have a foot condition benefit from orthopaedic trainers because they provide better arch support, cushioning and alignment, which can alleviate pain and discomfort associated with foot problems."
Orthopaedic trainer can help manage the following conditions:
• Flat feet – Orthopaedic trainers can properly support the arch, helping to prevent your feet from rolling inward.
• High-arched feet – Same as with flat feet, orthopaedic trainers support the arch by cushioning it. This prevents strain on the arch to prevent injuries and discomfort.
• Bunions – Orthopaedic trainers with more space at the front (wider toe boxes) can ensure the bunions aren’t squeezed, preventing injuries and discomfort.
• Achilles issues – Orthopaedic trainers with heel cushions can alleviate the discomfort caused by straining the Achilles in those who have Achilles issues such as Achilles Tendonitis.
Orthopaedic trainers can be used for preventative care too, Carolina advises: "orthopaedic trainers can help prevent chronic pain or injury because they help maintain proper foot alignment and absorb shock, reducing pressure on key areas of the foot."
How to choose the right orthopaedic trainers
Assess the shape and condition of your feet
As a starting point, Carolina Goncalves from Pharmica, recommends an assessment of your feet: "I would personally recommend looking at the condition and shape of your feet as a starting point. For example, if you have high foot arches, you should look for trainers with good cushioning and arch support to prevent strain on the feet and joints.
"Individuals with flat feet, on the other hand, should opt for orthopaedic trainers with added arch support to prevent overpronation and reduce the risk of pain.
"I would also look at conditions such as plantar fasciitis and bunions. These conditions can affect the decision regarding what type of orthopaedic trainer to buy because individuals with plantar fasciitis may need extra cushioning and heel support, while those with bunions may benefit from a wider toe box to reduce pressure."
Determine how much use the trainers will get
"Following this, I would advise looking at the build quality of the trainers. The materials should suit your lifestyle – if you’re planning to go for daily jogs through cold weather, you should look at materials such as water-resistant fabrics and insulated linings.
"If, on the other hand, you’re going to use them as your daily walking pair of trainers, you can look at materials such as breathable mesh. This also means checking the fit of the trainers, after accounting for the shape of your feet (especially the room in the toe box of the trainers)."
Get your feet measured by a specialist
Carolina recommends: "The best possible fit would be if an orthopaedic specialist took a look at your feet. They would be able to assess your foot size, structure, how much weight your feet bear (including which parts of the feet bear the most weight), and recommend a suitable fit.
"Take this information with you when purchasing orthopaedic trainers and make sure you try various pairs of trainers with the socks and insoles you intend to use. Walk around to assess comfort and don’t be afraid to voice any concerns you might have regarding the materials and fit of the shoe, including any adjustable features such as laces or straps."
Final factors to consider
"It’s important to remember that your shoe size might change over time due to factors like new conditions affecting your feet or changes in your weight. If this happens, try to get your feet reassessed and opt for a different pair of orthopaedic trainers if you can."
Best orthopaedic trainers FAQs
What are orthopaedic trainers?
Information from Orthofeet explains that orthopaedic trainers are specifically designed footwear that not only supports your feet, but also your ankles, legs and lower back, and provides comfort and pain relief. They are made with specific conditions, foot shapes, widths, types of surfaces and sports in mind so you can find the best trainer for your chosen activity.
How do orthopaedic trainers differ from regular trainers?
Typical features of orthopaedic trainers, when compared to regular trainers, include extra arch support, special soles, bigger depth, protective interior and stretchable uppers. They may also be wider-fitting trainers with additional room in the toe box to allow your toes to spread out.
These extra comfortable trainers will help alleviate pain at the heels, feet, knees, hips and lower back, improve mobility and stability and provide an overall better fit. They can also offer essential protection for those with foot-affecting conditions, such as diabetes and neuropathy.
This article includes expert commentary from Superintendent Pharmacist, Carolina Goncalves, from Pharmica. Carolina Goncalves is the Superintendent Pharmacist at Pharmica and has a medical background spanning more than 13 years, including over 5 years as a Community Pharmacist. Carolina specialises in multiple areas including pain relief and management, weight loss, Male and Female sexual health, hair loss, and more. Carolina leads a team of Responsible Pharmacists at Pharmica, assisting over 1.5 million customers and patients.
Rosie Floyd is a Pets, Homes and Garden Product Writer for Yours, specialising in home appliances, décor and furnishings, as well as all things dogs. After completing her Journalism & Media degree from Coventry University back in 2015, she started her career writing about must-visit holiday destinations, moving on to creating content around outdoor living and garden buildings, before joining the team at Bauer.