Adaptive Shoes for People with Disabilities

Whether you're putting on a pair of slippers or Crocs™ for a quick trip to the mailbox, lacing up tennis shoes for a workout, or wearing dress shoes to work, footwear is an integral part of everyday life. For some, shoes are a collector's item, a passion that transforms them into "sneakerheads." For others, shoes are a versatile accessory, perfectly matching each outfit. 

Finding the right shoes can be particularly challenging for individuals with disabilities. This guide offers helpful tips for selecting shoes, and suggests shoe options that cater to various needs. 

What Is an Adaptive Shoe?

Adaptive shoes are commonly worn by people with disabilities, with features that cater to mobility needs. Common features of adaptive shoes include: 

• Wide Shoe Sizes: Ideal for orthotics or prosthetics, which may require extra space. 
• Pull Tabs: Useful for limited hand mobility; this helps pull shoes on without folding the heel. 
• Removable Insoles/Footbeds: Allows extra space for orthotics or prosthetics. 
• Zippers and Velcro: Ideal for those with limited upper limb mobility or fine motor skills required to tie a shoe. 
• Slip-on Shoes: Hands-free option for those with upper limb disabilities. 
• Single Shoes: Companies like Billy Footwear and Zappos sell single shoes and mismatch sizes. These may be ideal for those with orthotics or prosthetics on one leg. 

Who Makes Shoes for Disabled People?

Although few brands design shoes specifically for people with disabilities, many popular brands offer shoes which may be adaptable for some people. For example, imagine Sarah, a high school student who wants trendy shoes that accommodate her leg braces. She could explore options from brands like Adidas and Nike, which provide multiple shoes with features like removable insoles, laces, and pull tabs. New Balance offers various widths, and Nike's adaptive line includes Velcro and zippers for easy use. These options could allow Sarah to find fashionable shoes that meet her needs. However, for those whose needs are not met by mainstream styles, there are shoes that cater more specifically to people with disabilities. Brands to consider include: 

Kid's Shoes

• Stride Rite: Offers a range of adaptive shoes for children, including sneakers and sandals. Features include wide widths, removable insoles, and functional pull tabs; however, not every style may include all features. 
• Plae: Known for lightweight and flexible designs, Plae's adaptive line includes high tops and Mary Janes, all with removable insoles and Velcro. Additionally, some styles feature pull tabs. 

All Ages

• Billy Footwear: Known for its wrap-around zipper design that allows the shoe to open fully, Billy Footwear offers shoes for toddlers, kids, and adults in multiple widths, with options to purchase single shoes or mismatched sizes. A discount code significantly reduces the regular price for those needing only one shoe or different sizes, ensuring individuals with orthotics or prosthetics pay less for the shoe they won't wear. 
• Nike: The EasyOn line incorporates concepts of universal design, with some styles featuring zippers, Velcro, and removable insoles. 
• Friendly Shoes: Designed by an occupational therapist, Friendly shoes feature a side-opening zipper for easy access and are available in wide widths. These shoes are only available through the Friendly Shoes website and can be ordered online. 

Dress Shoes

• Naot Footwear: Explore Naot Footwear's orthotic-friendly shoes, many of which come with removable insoles. Their selection includes various styles, such as sandals and loafers, available for both men and women. Some styles also come in wide sizing with features like zippers and Velcro for enhanced comfort. 
• Vionic: While not specifically made for people with disabilities, many Vionic shoes include features like removable insoles and wide sizing. Additionally, some styles feature Velcro, laces, and pull tabs. 

Common Questions about Shoe Shopping for People with Disabilities

A few common questions or considerations to make when purchasing adaptive shoes include: 

1. What kind of Shoes should a Wheelchair User Wear

The choice of shoes for a wheelchair user ultimately depends on personal preference. While comfort is key, those without foot deformities or other mobility concerns may be able to wear various types of shoes. Naturally, wheelchair use decreases how often one's shoes touch the ground. For many wheelchair users, this means shoes not only last longer, but some individuals may even choose to invest in more luxurious styles because their shoes aren’t worn out as quickly. 

2. What Is an AFO Shoe?

While "AFO shoe" is not a technical term, it typically refers to shoes that accommodate a leg brace. An AFO, or ankle-foot orthotic, is the most common type of leg brace, but other types of leg braces may also fit into an AFO shoe. Companies like Surestep not only manufacture custom braces but also offer shoes specifically designed to be compatible with leg braces. Additionally, orthotic and prosthetic manufacturers, or specialists who fit you for these devices, may be able to recommend specific shoes to meet individual needs. 

What Shoes are Similar to Billy Footwear?

Friendly Shoes, featuring side zippers, closely resemble Billy Footwear and are specifically designed for people with disabilities. Nike offers some shoes with partial zippers as well. The accessibility provided by zippered shoes varies, and different styles or brands may be required due to individual mobility needs. 

Can You Get Shoes with a Prescription?

Unlike medications, which are prescribed, shoes are not commonly prescribed, though they can be in certain circumstances. If a medical provider does prescribe a specific type of sock or shoe, it may be eligible for insurance coverage. Coverage depends on the individual insurance plan. Some insurance companies treat prescribed shoes as durable medical equipment (DME) or part of a leg brace, while others do not. If direct coverage isn't available, reimbursement through Health Savings Accounts (HSA) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) may be an option. Patients should consult their healthcare provider and insurance company to understand their coverage and reimbursement options. 

Does Social Security Pay for Orthopedic Shoes? 

Most people on Social Security also qualify for Medicare, which primarily covers orthopedic shoes and inserts for individuals with diabetes, though others may qualify under specific circumstances. To be eligible, a Medicare-enrolled doctor must certify the medical necessity of these items. Medicare Part B covers one pair of custom-molded shoes with inserts or one pair of extra-depth shoes annually, plus additional inserts. Both the prescribing doctor and supplier must be Medicare-enrolled. Beneficiaries pay the Part B deductible and a percentage of the cost. 

Whether you're exploring adaptive clothing to match a new pair of shoes or looking to express your personality through wheelchair accessories, check out the related articles section below.