How to Fit Orthotics in Shoes – Learn the Most Effective Method Here!

August 14, 2025 Orthotics/Insoles Juan Valenzuela 0 - Comments

If your physical or occupational therapist has recommended orthotics for your child, you’re likely wondering how to make them work with their everyday shoes. Whether your child is dealing with flat feet, foot pain, plantar fasciitis, or balance issues, orthotics can provide essential support—but only if they’re fitted properly. As a children’s shoe fitter with years of experience, I’ll walk you through the most effective way to fit orthotics in shoes to ensure your child gets the full benefits. A poorly fitted orthotic can do more harm than good, so let’s make sure your child gets the support they need from the ground up.

How to Fit Orthotics in Shoes in 4 Simple Steps

First Step: Remove the Original Insoles. Begin by removing the original insoles from the shoes. This step creates the necessary space for the orthotic to fit comfortably.
Second Step: Make Sure the Orthotic Length Matches the Insole Length. Before placing the orthotic in the shoe, compare its length to the original insole.
The orthotic should be of similar length to ensure it fits properly within the shoe. If the orthotic is too long, it may need trimming to fit comfortably.
A See Kai Run shoe with oversized openings for children who wear orthotics vs a Tsukihoshi shoe that is not wide or deep enough to accommodate orthotics.
Third Step: Open the Shoe Widely. To insert the orthotic, open the shoe as widely as possible. This makes it easier to position the orthotic correctly and ensures it lies flat within the shoe. Proper positioning is essential for the orthotic to provide the intended support and benefits.

Fourth Step: Insert the Orthotic and Check the Fit. Slide the orthotic into your child’s shoe and make sure it lies flat against the base. Run your hand inside to check that it’s not bunching, tilting, or lifting at the sides. A proper fit means full contact with the shoe’s base for maximum comfort and support.

Let me show you the difference between a properly fitted orthotic and one that doesn’t sit quite right.

The orthotic in this Saucony sneaker looks raised and poorly aligned.
Notice how the orthotic in the New Balance sneaker sits much deeper and more securely.

What Shoes Work Best for Orthotics?

Only certain shoes are truly compatible with orthotics, and choosing the wrong type can reduce their effectiveness. Since the shoe connects the orthotic to the ground, it must provide the right structure and support—otherwise, the orthotic won’t work as intended. In my experience, fitting orthotics often requires shoes in wide or extra wide widths. Some shoes also offer roomier toe boxes, which is crucial for proper fit—and I’ve learned which ones work best through hands-on experience fitting children in them.

Here’s a curated list of deep, supportive shoes that work well with orthotics. If your child starts mentioning heel slippage, don’t rush to size down. Instead, make sure you’ve chosen a shoe with shoelaces — which I highly recommend over Velcro — and try alternative lacing techniques. The right lacing method can dramatically improve the fit, keeping both the shoes and orthotics secure and comfortable.

Reach Out with Any Questions or for Specific Shoe Recommendations

As a shoe fitter with years of experience, I understand the challenges parents face in finding the right footwear for their children who wear orthotics. If you have any questions or need specific shoe recommendations tailored to your child’s orthotics and foot shape, don’t hesitate to reach out. Providing personalized advice and guidance is part of my commitment to helping families find the perfect fit for their little ones.

Avoid buying bigger shoes just to fit the orthotics—this can throw off your child’s stability and lead to foot problems down the line.