Sometimes I get excited by the smallest of things. I    walked around all of last week with a small pair of shoes, eagerly showing anyone that would look how they opened and closed! I brought them back with me from a recent trip to South Africa, after liberating them from the stock room of a wonderful orthotist (Gagik Hakopian for those in SA). These ingenious, beautiful Italian shoes open fully from the back to accommodate even the trickiest of orthotics, then close and tighten in a snap- NO LACES or Velcro! I instantly generated a list of children in my head who would love them, and regretted my choice of a tiny suitcase. Funny isn’t it, how the smallest of things (like how a shoe opens and closes) can make the biggest of differences? Considering how many people in the world wear orthotics, you would think it would be easier to find shoes that work.

The same thing goes for socks. Finding little socks that are seamless, soft and moisture wicking can be exasperating. Everything seems to be in big sizes and industrial in appearance. Here is a news flash to manufacturers out there – children with a disability don’t have to look dorky, and for sure they don’t want to stick out even more. Why is it the cool stuff is either too big or isn’t functional? How about a few more stylish things that fit little feet with orthotics?

Well, I thought I would share with you what I found, so you could check it out for yourself, AND hopefully comment with your own suggestions. You may have found something that works great; and we would all love to know about it!

SHOES

Up Easy by Diomedi, in Italy
http://www.easyup-shoes.com/

these are the ones that are pictured at the top.  They come in multiple colors, styles, and sole options.  They have added depth to accommodate orthotics, and it is easy to close the shoe tightly around the orthotic for additional stability.  Shipping from Italy is free, but you may have to pay customs fees.  They also aren’t cheap, and range from $120 to $140 a pair- about what you would pay for a good pair of athletic shoes.  At this point, there is no US-based distributor (hello Hanger Clinics- interested?) so you must order online.

Keeping Pace

http://www.keepingpace.com/pages/prod_shoes.asp

This shoe line was started by a parent of a child with cerebral palsy.  They come with either lace or velcro closures that open wide, and have added depth and width to accommodate orthotics.  There are several basic styles.  Prices range from $65 to $85 a pair.  The only down side to these shoes is that they all come with flexible soles.  This may not be the best combination with floor reaction orthotics or for children with “Elaine Owens” – type of orthotics.

Answer2

Answer2 Shoes | Answer 2 Orthopedic Shoes

This shoe line was launched in effort to help othotists provide off-the-shelf shoes that would fit over children’s orthotics.  They have either lace or velcro closures, which extend low on the shoe; extra width, and depth that is adjustable via inserts.  There are three basic styles (Mary Jane, athletic and an oxford), and the primary colors are black and white.  Lasts are relatively straight.  I am not certain about the sole flexibility.  Price ranges from $65 to $69 per pair.

Off of the shelf shoes
Asics and New Balance both make children’s shoes in extra wide sizes. If you need a shoe that is a bit more narrow in the heel, but wider in the forefoot try the Asics. Look for shoes with minimal “roll” in the sole under the forefoot, that have a wide opening that extends down toward the toe. Avoid shoes with a “toe cap”, or reinforced toe. Frequently the overall depth, and room for the toes in those shoes is a bit squishy when wearing orthotics. Don’t worry about the inside contour if your child has custom orthotics – those are what will be providing the alignment and support, and with off the shelf shoes you typically need to remove the insole anyhow (this gives more room for the orthotic). Shoes with a pull tab on the heel are also a bit easier to get on without breaking down the heel of the shoe. Regardless, spent the $2 for a shoe horn. Crazy how such a small thing can make your life so much easier. Off the shelf shoes generally run between $32 and $60, depending on what you order.

Zappos
http://www.zappos.com

Free shipping each way, regardless of how many pairs you order. I like to get at least 3 different styles, in 2 different sizes and try them all, then send back all those that don’t work. Zappos is great about crediting back your account quickly, they will also work with you on the phone if you need help.

SOCKS

Keeping Pace Cool Max socks

These socks are extra long, so they can be folded over the top of orthotics to keep them up and smooth underneath.  They have enough lycra to keep them wrinkle-free, and wick moisture well.  Color selection- white.

$18 to $22 for two pair

Children’s thigh-high socks

http://www.healthyfeetstore.com

These socks are extra long and resist slipping, so can be rolled down over the top of orthotics or worn like tights (but toileting is easier than when wearing tights).  They come in several cute designs and colors.  The down side is that they are not moisture wicking, so if you live in hot or humid climates they may not be ideal.  Price is $14 per pair.

Smart-knit children’s socks

http://www.smartknitkids.com/Products/seamless_socks.html

These socks are specifically made to be smooth and seamless on the skin, and also work well for children with sensory processing challenges.  They come in six different colors, and three different heights (lengths) so no problem for those wearing SMOs.  They are moisture wicking.  Price is $7 per pair, although you must order online, so shipping cost may be included (try Amazon Prime).

Well, I hope this has helped at least a wee bit. If you have found something that works make sure to share it here in the comments section, along with why you like it so much. Any and all help or tips are greatly appreciated!

Deirdre