Expert Foot & Ankle Treatment from Michigan’s #1 Podiatrist - Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist
Support You Can Feel—Orthotics Backed by Real Podiatrists
Podiatrist Recommended Orthotics Top 5 Podiatrist Recommended Slippers
Do you have foot or ankle pain? We have the best podiatrist-recommended orthotics & insoles right here! Make 100% sure you get the right ones and SAVE YOUR MONEY!
Struggling with foot pain, poor posture, or chronic fatigue in your feet and legs? Podiatrist recommended orthotics offer targeted relief, improving your daily comfort and overall mobility. At Balance Foot & Ankle in Howell, Michigan, Dr. Tom Biernacki and his team guide patients toward medically-backed orthotic solutions that are tailored to their specific needs—whether you’re an athlete, on your feet all day, or simply seeking better foot support.
Orthotics are more than just cushioned insoles—they’re medical devices designed to correct foot alignment, provide arch support, and redistribute pressure to ease pain in the feet, knees, hips, and lower back. Unlike off-the-shelf inserts, podiatrist recommended orthotics are based on a thorough evaluation of your gait, foot structure, and lifestyle needs.
They are commonly used to treat conditions such as plantar fasciitis, flat feet, bunions, arthritis, and even diabetic foot complications. With consistent use, these orthotics can help patients avoid surgery, reduce reliance on pain medications, and improve quality of life. From custom orthotics to high-quality over-the-counter brands, the right solution depends on your personal diagnosis—and your podiatrist’s expert guidance.
Best Orthotics Recommended by Podiatrist
Podiatrist Recommended Orthotics
- These are our recommended orthotics & insoles.
- Different insoles & orthotics are needed for different types of shoes.
- Women’s shoes usually need a less bulky orthotic but allow for less correction.
- A full-length orthotic requires a running shoe, boot, or comfortable walking/dress shoe.
- We recommend doing everything you can to get a good supportive shoe that can fit a full-length orthotic.
- This is the best way to maximize your orthotics for great results.
Best Full-Length Orthotics:
- These will only work in wider shoes or a good supportive running shoe.
- They do have better correction if you can fit them into your shoe and get a good fit.
- Usually, it is necessary to go up 1/2 size or full size to be able to fit them.
- This will not work in sandals, flats, or most women’s dress shoes.
Best Medium to Heavy Duty Heel Pain Orthotics:
Best Overall Orthotic For Everything (Medium Thick Fit)
Best Heavy Duty Orthotic (Thickest Fit)
Best SOFTER Choice For Sensitive Feet (Medium Thick Fit)
Best Women’s Orthotics
Price:
$40.46
$52.99
Price not available
$44.96
Overview:
These work best in shoes with laces and running shoes. Not good for dress shoes or women’s cute shoes.
Biggest and most corrective option. Only use for running shoes or work boots. Not cute shoes.
These are full length inserts, but softer. Great if you can’t tolerate the firmer ones. Best for very sore and sensitive feet.
Great Support & Better Fit
Pros:
Pretty much guaranteed to help you if it fits in your shoes and you give it 2 weeks to get used to. 5,000+ amazon reviews, great track record.
My personal favorite, but not for everyone. Amazing reviews over 3,500. But not for everyone. Only for bigger shoes that can fit them
They are softer and the initial break in time is AMAZING. But longer term benefits are less. >500 Almost 5 star amazon rating.
Sleek, supportive and have a better fit than the orthotics above.
Cons:
Do not wear these in cute or dress shoes!
Bigger and bulkier than all the other ones. You will be dissappointed if you have a cute women’s shoe or dress shoe. This is meant for running shoes and boots.
Great to start with, but don’t correct long term as much as the other ones.
A little bit more expensive.
Crucial Tips:
Ease in to these, 1-2hrs a day. They are like braces for your teeth, they suck at the beginning! But they will make your feet pain free as 1-2 weeks go by. Don’t give up on them after 1 or 2 days. Everyone feels off at the beginning!
This has the most correction, but hardest break in time! IF SENSITIVE, USE A SOFTER PAIR FIRST! But if you get these, you must break them in. Give it 1-2 hours a day, but then you will start to have excellent results. The bad reviews are all people who couldn’t fit it into their shoes and gave up too quickly. You have been WARNED!
If you are very sore, TRY THESE FIRST! These are easiest to break in with initially. If you are very sore and rigid, don’t use the heavy duty ones to start with.
These will have a harder time fitting in flats and pointed shoes.
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Best Medium to Heavy Duty Heel Pain Orthotics:
Best Overall Orthotic For Everything (Medium Thick Fit)
Price:
$40.46
Overview:
These work best in shoes with laces and running shoes. Not good for dress shoes or women’s cute shoes.
Pros:
Pretty much guaranteed to help you if it fits in your shoes and you give it 2 weeks to get used to. 5,000+ amazon reviews, great track record.
Cons:
Do not wear these in cute or dress shoes!
Crucial Tips:
Ease in to these, 1-2hrs a day. They are like braces for your teeth, they suck at the beginning! But they will make your feet pain free as 1-2 weeks go by. Don’t give up on them after 1 or 2 days. Everyone feels off at the beginning!
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Medium to Heavy Duty Heel Pain Orthotics:
Best Heavy Duty Orthotic (Thickest Fit)
Price:
$52.99
Overview:
Biggest and most corrective option. Only use for running shoes or work boots. Not cute shoes.
Pros:
My personal favorite, but not for everyone. Amazing reviews over 3,500. But not for everyone. Only for bigger shoes that can fit them
Cons:
Bigger and bulkier than all the other ones. You will be dissappointed if you have a cute women’s shoe or dress shoe. This is meant for running shoes and boots.
Crucial Tips:
This has the most correction, but hardest break in time! IF SENSITIVE, USE A SOFTER PAIR FIRST! But if you get these, you must break them in. Give it 1-2 hours a day, but then you will start to have excellent results. The bad reviews are all people who couldn’t fit it into their shoes and gave up too quickly. You have been WARNED!
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Best Medium to Heavy Duty Heel Pain Orthotics:
Best SOFTER Choice For Sensitive Feet (Medium Thick Fit)
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
These are full length inserts, but softer. Great if you can’t tolerate the firmer ones. Best for very sore and sensitive feet.
Pros:
They are softer and the initial break in time is AMAZING. But longer term benefits are less. >500 Almost 5 star amazon rating.
Cons:
Great to start with, but don’t correct long term as much as the other ones.
Crucial Tips:
If you are very sore, TRY THESE FIRST! These are easiest to break in with initially. If you are very sore and rigid, don’t use the heavy duty ones to start with.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Medium to Heavy Duty Heel Pain Orthotics:
Best Women’s Orthotics
Price:
$44.96
Overview:
Great Support & Better Fit
Pros:
Sleek, supportive and have a better fit than the orthotics above.
Cons:
A little bit more expensive.
Crucial Tips:
These will have a harder time fitting in flats and pointed shoes.
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Best Dress Shoe Orthotics:
- These are a great choice for dress orthotics.
- If you have a pointed shoe, this may benefit most from 3/4 orthotics.
- A full-length dress shoe orthotic can work better in wide-toe box or loafer style dress shoes.
Best Dress Shoe Orthotics:
Best Fitting Dress Shoe Orthotic (3/4″)
Best Full Length Dress Orthotic.
Great Heavy Duty Insole for Men
Price:
Price not available
Price not available
$26.11
Overview:
This is my top choice due to best fit. It is a little less supportive than full length, but fit is the key in dress shoes!
Best option if you can fit a full length orthotic. This does give you most control.
Great price and heavy duty insole for Oxford shoes.
Pros:
Excellent overall fit. This will fit in almost every dress shoe. Excellent reviews and reasonable cost overall. Can’t go wrong in most cases.
Great color dress option. Not the most corrective, but very color and dress appropriate. Great Reviews. Better correction and relief than the 3/4″ length.
These fit in most shoes and have really good predictable results
Cons:
Less correction than full length and heavy duty orthotics.
These can have a poor fit in in some shoes. If you have tight shoes, DO NOT BUY the full length orthotic! You have been warned.
They are not full length and thus do not provide as much support
Crucial Tips:
If you haven’t used dress orthotics before, get this one and avoid poor fit. If you wear dress shoes every day with room, the full length might give you more support.
This is will work great in most men’s shoes that are not pointy. If you have a rounded toe box, this will probably work well. If a tight shoe go with the 3/4″ length.
Get these for Oxford and pointed shoes. This will provide best results.
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Best Dress Shoe Orthotics:
Best Fitting Dress Shoe Orthotic (3/4″)
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
This is my top choice due to best fit. It is a little less supportive than full length, but fit is the key in dress shoes!
Pros:
Excellent overall fit. This will fit in almost every dress shoe. Excellent reviews and reasonable cost overall. Can’t go wrong in most cases.
Cons:
Less correction than full length and heavy duty orthotics.
Crucial Tips:
If you haven’t used dress orthotics before, get this one and avoid poor fit. If you wear dress shoes every day with room, the full length might give you more support.
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Best Dress Shoe Orthotics:
Best Full Length Dress Orthotic.
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Best option if you can fit a full length orthotic. This does give you most control.
Pros:
Great color dress option. Not the most corrective, but very color and dress appropriate. Great Reviews. Better correction and relief than the 3/4″ length.
Cons:
These can have a poor fit in in some shoes. If you have tight shoes, DO NOT BUY the full length orthotic! You have been warned.
Crucial Tips:
This is will work great in most men’s shoes that are not pointy. If you have a rounded toe box, this will probably work well. If a tight shoe go with the 3/4″ length.
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Best Dress Shoe Orthotics:
Great Heavy Duty Insole for Men
Price:
$26.11
Overview:
Great price and heavy duty insole for Oxford shoes.
Pros:
These fit in most shoes and have really good predictable results
Cons:
They are not full length and thus do not provide as much support
Crucial Tips:
Get these for Oxford and pointed shoes. This will provide best results.
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Best 3/4 Length Orthotics:
- These are great options for women’s dress shoes and thinner shoes.
- This may be a good starting option for insoles and orthotics if you have never worn a pair before.
- The break-in period may be easier than getting used to a firmer full-length pair.
- These are not the most supportive pair of orthotics.
Best Flat Shoe (Non-Lace Up) Orthotics:
Best Choice For Tight Women’s Shoes or High Heels..
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
These are the best fitting for the most narrow shoes. Some but not great correction.
Pros:
They will fit in even the tightest shoes! Guaranteed to make you feel better, but you know what you are getting in a tight shoes. Great reviews and price.
Cons:
At the end of the day high heels and slender orthotics help, but never cure all your pain. Make the best of a painful shoe!
Crucial Tips:
**WARNING***: If your shoe almost just barely fits onto your foot, this WILL NOT FIT! Be aware, it still needs a small amount of space to fit.
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Best Flat Shoe (Non-Lace Up) Orthotics:
Best Choice For Tight Women’s Shoes or High Heels..
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
These are the best fitting for the most narrow shoes. Some but not great correction.
Pros:
They will fit in even the tightest shoes! Guaranteed to make you feel better, but you know what you are getting in a tight shoes. Great reviews and price.
Cons:
At the end of the day high heels and slender orthotics help, but never cure all your pain. Make the best of a painful shoe!
Crucial Tips:
**WARNING***: If your shoe almost just barely fits onto your foot, this WILL NOT FIT! Be aware, it still needs a small amount of space to fit.
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Get A Great Dynamic Stretch:
- It is possible to stretch on your own, but these products can also really help!
- These are a great option for increasing foot flexibility.
- I personally use these stretching devices every single day to maintain good flexibility and shoe fit.
- This will take pressure off of the ball of your foot.
- We personally prefer this method of stretching.
Best Standing Foot & Ankle Stretching Devices:
Best Premium Plantar Fascia Stretching Device.
Best Budget Plantar Fascia Stretching Stretch Device.
Best Stationary Calf Stretching Device.
Best Hamstring Stretching Device
Price:
$39.99
$15.99
$45.95
$69.95
Overview:
Great Stretching Device While Standing. (4.9 Amazon Rating)
Plastic and Lighter Plantar Fascia & Achilles Stretching Device.
Premium Best Rated Wood Ankle Stretch Device.
Uses gravity to stretch your hamstring for you. Great reviews and track record.
Pros:
Very sturdy and durable. Great bottom grip and weight so it won’t slide on you. Perfect 5 star review on Amazon.
Amazing cost, still works and 1,300+ 5 star reviews. Works great overall and gives you the same stretch.
Near perfect 4.8 star review on Amazon. Great sturdy device that stretches your calf and hamstring. All you have to do is lean forward. Can be very effective.
Reviews on Amazon are >4.5 overall with hundreds of reviews. It uses gravity to stretch for you, allows you to also use your hips. Gets great results.
Cons:
More expensive and built like a tank = more weight. If you can’t balance well or support yourself it could be dangerous.
The plastic and less bulk/grip makes it more dangerous to slip. Less premium feel to it.
Nothing wrong with the product, as the reviews suggest, but at the end of the day you can do this stuff yourself (just a little bit harder).
These are stretches that you realistically can do on your own. If budget is tight, this is not worth it. If you need help with hamstring stretching, it can make all the difference.
Important Tips:
Make sure you can balance yourself well against a counter/railing. Do only one foot at a time to prevent falling. Uses your body weight to stretch for you.
Even more important to balance yourself well with this device, make sure you don’t injure yourself with this thing! Still gives you a great stretch to the area.
Make sure you balance yourself on a counter/railing. You need to keep up with this daily at least 15-30 second x 3 or so per morning. It doesn’t stretch for you!
Need to do 3-5 stretches per day 15-30 seconds. You should notice a massive difference to knee and hamstring tightness. You can massage roll ahead to time for better results for 30-60 seconds.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Standing Foot & Ankle Stretching Devices:
Best Premium Plantar Fascia Stretching Device.
Price:
$39.99
Overview:
Great Stretching Device While Standing. (4.9 Amazon Rating)
Pros:
Very sturdy and durable. Great bottom grip and weight so it won’t slide on you. Perfect 5 star review on Amazon.
Cons:
More expensive and built like a tank = more weight. If you can’t balance well or support yourself it could be dangerous.
Important Tips:
Make sure you can balance yourself well against a counter/railing. Do only one foot at a time to prevent falling. Uses your body weight to stretch for you.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Standing Foot & Ankle Stretching Devices:
Best Budget Plantar Fascia Stretching Stretch Device.
Price:
$15.99
Overview:
Plastic and Lighter Plantar Fascia & Achilles Stretching Device.
Pros:
Amazing cost, still works and 1,300+ 5 star reviews. Works great overall and gives you the same stretch.
Cons:
The plastic and less bulk/grip makes it more dangerous to slip. Less premium feel to it.
Important Tips:
Even more important to balance yourself well with this device, make sure you don’t injure yourself with this thing! Still gives you a great stretch to the area.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Standing Foot & Ankle Stretching Devices:
Best Stationary Calf Stretching Device.
Price:
$45.95
Overview:
Premium Best Rated Wood Ankle Stretch Device.
Pros:
Near perfect 4.8 star review on Amazon. Great sturdy device that stretches your calf and hamstring. All you have to do is lean forward. Can be very effective.
Cons:
Nothing wrong with the product, as the reviews suggest, but at the end of the day you can do this stuff yourself (just a little bit harder).
Important Tips:
Make sure you balance yourself on a counter/railing. You need to keep up with this daily at least 15-30 second x 3 or so per morning. It doesn’t stretch for you!
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Standing Foot & Ankle Stretching Devices:
Best Hamstring Stretching Device
Price:
$69.95
Overview:
Uses gravity to stretch your hamstring for you. Great reviews and track record.
Pros:
Reviews on Amazon are >4.5 overall with hundreds of reviews. It uses gravity to stretch for you, allows you to also use your hips. Gets great results.
Cons:
These are stretches that you realistically can do on your own. If budget is tight, this is not worth it. If you need help with hamstring stretching, it can make all the difference.
Important Tips:
Need to do 3-5 stretches per day 15-30 seconds. You should notice a massive difference to knee and hamstring tightness. You can massage roll ahead to time for better results for 30-60 seconds.
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Alternatives To Shoe Orthotics:
Best Home Orthotic Slippers:
Best Women’s Orthotic Slippers:
Click the link to see the best rated women’s orthotic slippers for home use!
Best Women’s Orthotic Slippers
Great Budget & Low Cost Slip-on House Croc: 8,000+ reviews at 4.8/5 rating!
Vionic Women’s Relax Slipper: Great orthotic slipper: 4,300+ reviews at 4.4/5 reviews.
Best High Quality Peripheral Neuropathy & Diabetic Slipper
Women’s Spenco Orthotic Slippers are a great podiatrist recommended slipper, but can be expensive.
Easy to wear slide slipper.
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Price:
Price not available
Price not available
Price not available
$98.95
Price not available
Title:
Crocs Men’s and Women’s Classic Lined Clog | Indoor and Outdoor Fuzzy Slipper
Vionic Women’s Indulge Relax Slipper – Ladies Comfortable Cozy Adjustable House Slippers that include Three-Zone Comfort with Orthotic Insole Arch Support, Soft House Shoes for Ladies
Orthofeet Women’s Charlotte Slipper, Black, 5 X-Wide
Spenco Women’s Supreme Slide Mule, Taupe, 7
Spenco Women’s Siesta Slide Mule, Charcoal Grey, 5 M US
Overview:
Price Range: $25+. Crocs are not the most supportive slip-on orthotic, but the price can’t be beat! This can almost instantly make the different for plantar fasciitis and other foot pain if used for walking around barefoot. Always worth $25!
Price Range: $40+ range. These are a lower cost sandal style slipper. Easy to slip on and wear. The cushion does press down and is unfortunately not replaceable.
This is a little bit more expensive. But does have excellent reviews and function.
This is my personal favorite that I get for my wife and family. Unfortunately they are more expensive.
These are a favorite of my wife and mother in law. Great slide with very good support.
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Best Women’s Orthotic Slippers
Great Budget & Low Cost Slip-on House Croc: 8,000+ reviews at 4.8/5 rating!
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Price:
Price not available
Title:
Crocs Men’s and Women’s Classic Lined Clog | Indoor and Outdoor Fuzzy Slipper
Overview:
Price Range: $25+. Crocs are not the most supportive slip-on orthotic, but the price can’t be beat! This can almost instantly make the different for plantar fasciitis and other foot pain if used for walking around barefoot. Always worth $25!
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Best Women’s Orthotic Slippers
Vionic Women’s Relax Slipper: Great orthotic slipper: 4,300+ reviews at 4.4/5 reviews.
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Price:
Price not available
Title:
Vionic Women’s Indulge Relax Slipper – Ladies Comfortable Cozy Adjustable House Slippers that include Three-Zone Comfort with Orthotic Insole Arch Support, Soft House Shoes for Ladies
Overview:
Price Range: $40+ range. These are a lower cost sandal style slipper. Easy to slip on and wear. The cushion does press down and is unfortunately not replaceable.
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Best Women’s Orthotic Slippers
Best High Quality Peripheral Neuropathy & Diabetic Slipper
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Price:
Price not available
Title:
Orthofeet Women’s Charlotte Slipper, Black, 5 X-Wide
Overview:
This is a little bit more expensive. But does have excellent reviews and function.
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Best Women’s Orthotic Slippers
Women’s Spenco Orthotic Slippers are a great podiatrist recommended slipper, but can be expensive.
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Price:
$98.95
Title:
Spenco Women’s Supreme Slide Mule, Taupe, 7
Overview:
This is my personal favorite that I get for my wife and family. Unfortunately they are more expensive.
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Best Women’s Orthotic Slippers
Easy to wear slide slipper.
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Price:
Price not available
Title:
Spenco Women’s Siesta Slide Mule, Charcoal Grey, 5 M US
Overview:
These are a favorite of my wife and mother in law. Great slide with very good support.
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Best Men’s Orthotic Slippers:
Click the link to see the best-rated Men’s orthotic slippers for home use!
Best Men’s Orthotic Slippers
Great Budget & Low Cost Slip on House Croc: 8,000+ reviews at 4.8/5 rating!
Great High Quality Slipper.
Low cost low profile slipper.
More Expensive but higher quality slipper from a great brand.
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Price:
Price not available
$89.99
$39.99
Price not available
Title:
Crocs Men’s and Women’s Classic Lined Clog | Indoor and Outdoor Fuzzy Slipper
Orthofeet Men’s Orthopedic Clog Brown Slipper with Arch Support Asheville, Size 9
Plantar Fasciitis Slippers for Men with Arch Support, Canvas Orthotic Slipper for Men, Slip on Clog House Slipper with Indoor Outdoor Anti-Skid Rubber Sole, Beige, 11.5
Vionic 566ADLER9029M 566ADLER Chestnut 9 M
Overview:
Price Range $25+, Crocs are not the most supportive slip on orthotic, but the price can’t be beat! This can almost instantly make the different for plantar fasciitis and other foot pain if used to walking around barefoot. Always worth $25!
A little more expensive, but high quality, great reviews and great support!
Great reviews, not as much cushion, more minimalist but lower cost
These are very good vionic orthotic slippers, the main downside is they can be fairly expensive.
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Best Men’s Orthotic Slippers
Great Budget & Low Cost Slip on House Croc: 8,000+ reviews at 4.8/5 rating!
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Price:
Price not available
Title:
Crocs Men’s and Women’s Classic Lined Clog | Indoor and Outdoor Fuzzy Slipper
Overview:
Price Range $25+, Crocs are not the most supportive slip on orthotic, but the price can’t be beat! This can almost instantly make the different for plantar fasciitis and other foot pain if used to walking around barefoot. Always worth $25!
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Best Men’s Orthotic Slippers
Great High Quality Slipper.
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Price:
$89.99
Title:
Orthofeet Men’s Orthopedic Clog Brown Slipper with Arch Support Asheville, Size 9
Overview:
A little more expensive, but high quality, great reviews and great support!
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Best Men’s Orthotic Slippers
Low cost low profile slipper.
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Price:
$39.99
Title:
Plantar Fasciitis Slippers for Men with Arch Support, Canvas Orthotic Slipper for Men, Slip on Clog House Slipper with Indoor Outdoor Anti-Skid Rubber Sole, Beige, 11.5
Overview:
Great reviews, not as much cushion, more minimalist but lower cost
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Best Men’s Orthotic Slippers
More Expensive but higher quality slipper from a great brand.
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Price:
Price not available
Title:
Vionic 566ADLER9029M 566ADLER Chestnut 9 M
Overview:
These are very good vionic orthotic slippers, the main downside is they can be fairly expensive.
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Best Orthotic Sandals:
Best Women’s Orthotic Sandals:
Click the link to see the best rated women’s orthotic sandals!
Best Women’s Arch Support Orthotics:
Vionic Women’s Tide II Toe Post Sandal – Supportive Ladies Flip Flops That Include Three-Zone Comfort with Orthotic Insole Arch Support
Clarks Women’s Breeze Sea Flip-Flop
Birkenstock Women’s Arizona
Clarks Women’s Leisa Cacti Slide Sandal
OOFOS OOlala Luxe Recovery Sandal, Calypso – Women’s Size 7
Birkenstock Women’s Arizona Soft Footbed, Black Birko-Flor¿, 38 Regular EU
Price:
Price not available
Price not available
Price not available
Price not available
Price not available
$109.93
Overview:
Range $50-60+. Vionics are a great arch support orthotic sandal..
Much Cheaper at $25-50 range. Good but not great support.
Expensive at $99+. Great reputation and have been loved for many decades.
Great overall dress sandal. Great price at around $40-50+.
Oofos may not be the most pretty, but they are soft & supportive!
The most popular brand of Birkenstock sandals.
Pros:
Great reviews at 4.5/5 with 4,500 reviews. These are a popular and well recommended brand by podiatrists.
Easier to break in than some other brands. Amazing reviews at 4.8/5 with 8,000+ reviews!
Excellent quality and very supportive, but not the most supportive sandals. 4.4/5 with 1,000+ reviews!
Great reviews at 4.7/5 with almost 3,000 reviews.
Very well proven with excellent results & reviews!
250 year track history, excellent review, high quality material and price is better!
Cons:
They can be expensive, but as far as flip flip sandals, these are some of the best reviewed orthotic sandals.
Not as supportive as the Vionics.
Expensive and not the most aggressive support in the world.
Higher quality and more dress appropriate, this means more bulky.
Some people don’t like the look!
They are still flip flops that are not the most stable, but that is nit picking!
Crucial Tips:
These are great as far as orthotic flip flops go, but never as good as an orthotic combined with a good supportive shoe.
Great intro sandal if you are worried about breaking into a more aggressive and corrective pair of sandals.
Great early to medium aggressive orthotic. Great quality and great brand.
Great overall sandal from a great brand. Never as supportive as a good shoe and a good orthotic.
They are soft and supportive, they are not meant to be dressy!
They are a little more pricey, but these are great and very well proven.
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Best Women’s Arch Support Orthotics:
Vionic Women’s Tide II Toe Post Sandal – Supportive Ladies Flip Flops That Include Three-Zone Comfort with Orthotic Insole Arch Support
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Range $50-60+. Vionics are a great arch support orthotic sandal..
Pros:
Great reviews at 4.5/5 with 4,500 reviews. These are a popular and well recommended brand by podiatrists.
Cons:
They can be expensive, but as far as flip flip sandals, these are some of the best reviewed orthotic sandals.
Crucial Tips:
These are great as far as orthotic flip flops go, but never as good as an orthotic combined with a good supportive shoe.
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Best Women’s Arch Support Orthotics:
Clarks Women’s Breeze Sea Flip-Flop
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Much Cheaper at $25-50 range. Good but not great support.
Pros:
Easier to break in than some other brands. Amazing reviews at 4.8/5 with 8,000+ reviews!
Cons:
Not as supportive as the Vionics.
Crucial Tips:
Great intro sandal if you are worried about breaking into a more aggressive and corrective pair of sandals.
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Best Women’s Arch Support Orthotics:
Birkenstock Women’s Arizona
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Expensive at $99+. Great reputation and have been loved for many decades.
Pros:
Excellent quality and very supportive, but not the most supportive sandals. 4.4/5 with 1,000+ reviews!
Cons:
Expensive and not the most aggressive support in the world.
Crucial Tips:
Great early to medium aggressive orthotic. Great quality and great brand.
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Best Women’s Arch Support Orthotics:
Clarks Women’s Leisa Cacti Slide Sandal
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Great overall dress sandal. Great price at around $40-50+.
Pros:
Great reviews at 4.7/5 with almost 3,000 reviews.
Cons:
Higher quality and more dress appropriate, this means more bulky.
Crucial Tips:
Great overall sandal from a great brand. Never as supportive as a good shoe and a good orthotic.
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Best Women’s Arch Support Orthotics:
OOFOS OOlala Luxe Recovery Sandal, Calypso – Women’s Size 7
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Oofos may not be the most pretty, but they are soft & supportive!
Pros:
Very well proven with excellent results & reviews!
Cons:
Some people don’t like the look!
Crucial Tips:
They are soft and supportive, they are not meant to be dressy!
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Best Women’s Arch Support Orthotics:
Birkenstock Women’s Arizona Soft Footbed, Black Birko-Flor¿, 38 Regular EU
Price:
$109.93
Overview:
The most popular brand of Birkenstock sandals.
Pros:
250 year track history, excellent review, high quality material and price is better!
Cons:
They are still flip flops that are not the most stable, but that is nit picking!
Crucial Tips:
They are a little more pricey, but these are great and very well proven.
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Best Men’s Orthotic Sandals:
Click the link to see the best rated Men’s orthotic sandals!
Best Men’s Arch Support Orthotics:
OOFOS OOahh Recovery Slide, Black – Women’s Size 12, Men’s Size 10
Kaiback – Men’s Drifter Sport Flip Flops | Comfortable Durable Rubber and Heavy-Duty Tread
Dockers Men’s Newpage Sporty Outdoor Sandal Shoe
Crocs Men’s and Women’s Athens Flip Flop
Birkenstock Women’s Arizona Soft Footbed, Black Birko-Flor¿, 38 Regular EU
Thumbnail:
Price:
$59.95
Price not available
Price not available
Price not available
$109.93
Overview:
Price Range: $30+ and up. 8,500+! reviews at 4.7/5 amazon reviews. Excellent reviews and good cost.
Price Range: $24+ and up. Great low price with some arch support. 500+ reviews at 4.5+/5 reviews!
Price Range: $80+ and up. Great Leather Sandals
Price Range: $20+ and up. 2,500+ reviews at 4.3/5. Great cost to value ratio.
The most popular brand of Birkenstock sandals.
Pros:
One of the best sellers ever with great overall reviews. Good simple arch support orthotic.
Excellent low cost orthotic with potentially some more style than the OOFOS.
Great looking durable sandal for increased walking.
These are about as budget friendly as an orthotic sandal can be. They are not that hard to break in and a great cost at under $20 in some cases.
250 year track history, excellent review, high quality material and price is better!
Cons:
Not the most stylish and some complaints about the material and lack of quality. But great for the cost.
Lower cost and not as an aggressive of an orthotic.
It can be a little bit more pricey and bulky than the other choices.
Not the most supportive and not the most durable sandal in the world.
They are still flip flops that are not the most stable, but that is nit picking!
Crucial Tips:
Good simple arch support orthotic. Great for overpronation.
Less aggressive orthotic. If you are looking for an aggressive or even medium correction, look at some of the more expensive brands.
This is a larger sandal with straps, great reviews!
If you are flat footed, you may need more correction and a stronger arch.
They are a little more pricey, but these are great and very well proven.
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Best Men’s Arch Support Orthotics:
OOFOS OOahh Recovery Slide, Black – Women’s Size 12, Men’s Size 10
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Price:
$59.95
Overview:
Price Range: $30+ and up. 8,500+! reviews at 4.7/5 amazon reviews. Excellent reviews and good cost.
Pros:
One of the best sellers ever with great overall reviews. Good simple arch support orthotic.
Cons:
Not the most stylish and some complaints about the material and lack of quality. But great for the cost.
Crucial Tips:
Good simple arch support orthotic. Great for overpronation.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Men’s Arch Support Orthotics:
Kaiback – Men’s Drifter Sport Flip Flops | Comfortable Durable Rubber and Heavy-Duty Tread
Thumbnail:
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Price Range: $24+ and up. Great low price with some arch support. 500+ reviews at 4.5+/5 reviews!
Pros:
Excellent low cost orthotic with potentially some more style than the OOFOS.
Cons:
Lower cost and not as an aggressive of an orthotic.
Crucial Tips:
Less aggressive orthotic. If you are looking for an aggressive or even medium correction, look at some of the more expensive brands.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Men’s Arch Support Orthotics:
Dockers Men’s Newpage Sporty Outdoor Sandal Shoe
Thumbnail:
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Price Range: $80+ and up. Great Leather Sandals
Pros:
Great looking durable sandal for increased walking.
Cons:
It can be a little bit more pricey and bulky than the other choices.
Crucial Tips:
This is a larger sandal with straps, great reviews!
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Men’s Arch Support Orthotics:
Crocs Men’s and Women’s Athens Flip Flop
Thumbnail:
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Price Range: $20+ and up. 2,500+ reviews at 4.3/5. Great cost to value ratio.
Pros:
These are about as budget friendly as an orthotic sandal can be. They are not that hard to break in and a great cost at under $20 in some cases.
Cons:
Not the most supportive and not the most durable sandal in the world.
Crucial Tips:
If you are flat footed, you may need more correction and a stronger arch.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Men’s Arch Support Orthotics:
Birkenstock Women’s Arizona Soft Footbed, Black Birko-Flor¿, 38 Regular EU
Thumbnail:
Price:
$109.93
Overview:
The most popular brand of Birkenstock sandals.
Pros:
250 year track history, excellent review, high quality material and price is better!
Cons:
They are still flip flops that are not the most stable, but that is nit picking!
Crucial Tips:
They are a little more pricey, but these are great and very well proven.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Final Thoughts from Dr. Tom Biernacki
When comparing orthotics, it’s important to understand that not all insoles are created equal. Over-the-counter inserts may offer temporary relief, especially if they’re from a reputable brand, but they aren’t customized to your foot’s biomechanics.
On the other hand, custom orthotics, which are molded to your exact foot shape and gait, deliver targeted correction and long-term comfort. They’re especially valuable for chronic conditions like plantar fasciitis, arthritis, or structural deformities.
I often advise patients to think of orthotics like glasses. You can pick up a pair of readers at the pharmacy—but if you want crystal-clear vision, you go to an optometrist. The same logic applies to your feet.
FAQs – Podiatrist Recommended Orthotics
These are foot inserts prescribed or approved by licensed podiatrists to help manage specific foot, leg, or posture-related issues.
If you suffer from chronic foot, heel, knee, or back pain—or conditions like plantar fasciitis or flat feet—a podiatrist can evaluate whether orthotics are right for you.
Yes. Custom orthotics are molded to your exact foot shape and gait pattern, offering precise correction and comfort that generic inserts typically lack.
Custom orthotics generally last 1–3 years depending on use. Over-the-counter versions may need replacing every 6–12 months.
Absolutely. Orthotics can provide arch support and heel cushioning that reduce stress on the plantar fascia, offering lasting relief.
Many insurance plans cover orthotics prescribed by a podiatrist. Check with your provider for details on your specific plan.
Yes. By correcting foot misalignment, orthotics can reduce strain on your knees, hips, and spine, leading to better overall posture and less pain.
For custom orthotics, yes. These are typically only made after a medical evaluation. However, your podiatrist may also recommend specific OTC options.
Orthotics fit best in supportive footwear with removable insoles. Your podiatrist can help you choose the right shoes that accommodate your orthotics comfortably.
