Orthotics can be life-changing. Whether they’re prescribed for flat feet, plantar fasciitis, diabetic support, or general alignment, custom insoles help reduce pain, improve mobility, and prevent long-term foot problems. But without the right shoes, even the best orthotics won’t do their job. If your shoes are too shallow, narrow, or unstable, they’ll cancel out the benefits of your insoles. In this blog, we’ll explain why extra depth is essential and how TDO Therapy shoes are made to work with custom orthotics — from everyday walking to complex clinical needs.
Key Takeaways
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Orthotics need space — and most regular shoes don’t have enough.
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Extra depth allows orthotics to sit securely without causing pressure or tightness.
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TDO Therapy shoes are designed with removable insoles, stable soles, and added depth to accommodate various devices.
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Choosing the right orthotic-friendly shoes can dramatically improve comfort and foot health.
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Fit and function are just as important as the orthotic insert itself.
What Are Custom Orthotics?
Custom orthotics are medical-grade insoles tailored to your foot’s unique shape and structure. They’re often prescribed to help:
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Align joints and improve posture
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Distribute pressure more evenly
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Reduce pain in the heel, arch, or forefoot
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Support foot conditions like arthritis, flat feet, or diabetes
But to be effective, orthotics need to sit flat, secure, and uncompressed inside the shoe — and that’s where extra-depth footwear comes in.
Why Regular Shoes Don’t Work with Orthotics
Most high street shoes are made for style, not function. They often feature:
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Narrow toe boxes
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Minimal interior space
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Curved or unstable soles
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Built-in footbeds that can’t be removed
Trying to insert an orthotic into these shoes leads to:
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A tight or shallow fit
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Rubbing and pressure points
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Poor foot alignment
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Increased pain, not less
In short: without the right shoe, orthotics can actually make things worse.
What Is an Extra-Depth Shoe?
Extra-depth shoes look like regular shoes from the outside, but they’re constructed differently. They offer:
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More vertical space inside the shoe to fit orthotics or AFOs (ankle-foot orthoses)
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Removable insoles, allowing for extra volume or device placement
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Wider toe boxes for comfort and better foot alignment
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Stronger soles to maintain stability and control
TDO Therapy specialises in exactly this kind of footwear — combining clinical function with everyday style.
How TDO Therapy Shoes Support Orthotic Wearers
Designed with Depth and Structure
TDO Therapy shoes include built-in depth and reinforced soles to provide a stable base for custom inserts. Whether you need mild arch support or full-length orthotics, your insole will sit flush with the shoe — not bulging or shifting inside.
Removable Insoles
Every pair of TDO Therapy shoes features removable cushioned insoles. You can take them out entirely or layer your orthotics on top, depending on your comfort needs.
Multiple Width and Fitting Options
We know no two feet are the same. Our shoes are available in:
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Wide and extra-wide fittings
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Specialist lasts for flat feet, bunions, and high arches
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Models with added build-up for leg length discrepancies
That means your orthotics won’t be fighting for space — they’ll be part of a complete, supportive fit.
Rocker Bottom Soles for Gait Support
Some orthotics are prescribed to improve gait or offload pressure from the forefoot or heel. TDO rocker soles complement these goals by guiding the foot forward with minimal strain — ideal for arthritis, post-surgery recovery, or balance improvement.
Who Should Choose Extra-Depth Shoes?
Extra-depth shoes are essential for:
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Orthotic wearers (custom or off-the-shelf)
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People with foot swelling or diabetes
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Those with bunions, hammertoes, or deformities
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Wearers of leg braces or AFOs
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Anyone with foot sensitivity or balance issues
Even if you don’t wear orthotics now, having the option to insert one later is a huge advantage — especially if your condition progresses.
Style and Comfort — No Need to Compromise
One of the biggest concerns people have about orthopaedic or extra-depth shoes is the look. But TDO Therapy breaks that stereotype. Our shoes are:
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Handcrafted from soft natural leather
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Finished with subtle, modern designs
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Available in men’s and women’s styles, from dress shoes to casual everyday options
This means you can care for your feet without compromising on style — perfect for work, walking, or just living life comfortably.
When to Get Professional Advice
If you’re new to orthotics or unsure what type of shoes you need, it’s always worth speaking to your orthotist, podiatrist, or specialist shoe fitter. Many clinics recommend TDO Therapy because our range meets medical standards while offering great comfort and durability.
We also welcome fittings by appointment at our showroom in Hampshire, where we can help find your best size, width, and fit — especially if you have a complex need.
Conclusion
Orthotics are a powerful tool for foot health — but only when paired with the right footwear. Extra-depth shoes like those from TDO Therapy give your orthotics room to work properly while supporting the rest of your foot, too. From pain relief to improved balance and mobility, choosing the right shoes is the final step to making your orthotics truly effective.
Don’t let your footwear hold you back — discover the support of extra-depth shoes built for real people and real foot needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "extra-depth" actually mean in a shoe?
It refers to the vertical space inside the shoe — giving more room for custom orthotics or swelling without making the shoe look bulky.
Can I put orthotics into regular trainers or shoes?
Not usually. Most off-the-shelf shoes don’t have enough space, stability, or removable insoles to accommodate orthotics properly.
Do TDO Therapy shoes come with removable insoles?
Yes. All TDO shoes have removable footbeds so you can use your own orthotics or adjust fit as needed.
What styles are best for orthotic wearers?
Closed shoes with firm heel counters, removable insoles, and rocker soles — all found across TDO’s men’s and women’s ranges — are ideal.
How do I know if I need extra-depth shoes?
If you wear orthotics, experience foot pain, have swelling or foot conditions, or feel your current shoes are tight or unstable — you likely need extra depth.
