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If you searched orthotic shoes NZ, you already know how frustrating it is to find footwear that works with your custom orthotics, not against them. At Gait Doctor, our clinicians specialise in bridging that gap—showing you exactly how orthotics and the right shoes team up to reduce strain and improve everyday mobility.
Clients often tell us they’re caught between sporting-goods hype and medical jargon. Common problems include:
Heel slip when the collar isn’t deep enough
Toe-box crowding that compresses the orthotic’s forefoot extension
Soft midsoles that undo the stabilising work of a posted device
Style compromises—you want footwear that looks good and supports your feet
If any of that rings true, you’re in the right place.
A truly orthotic-friendly shoe is less about brand and more about specification.
Removable factory liner so the orthotic sits flat
Adequate mid-foot depth (roughly 18–22 mm) to prevent pressure over the top of the foot
Structured heel counter for rear-foot control
Supportive shank so the shoe can’t twist away from the orthotic’s corrective plane
Optional rocker sole to smooth forefoot roll-off where clinically advised
During a fitting, we measure these elements with digital callipers and a flex-torsion test, then shortlist shoe models that genuinely meet the spec.
Think of your orthotics as the software, recalibrating the way your foot meets the ground. The shoe is the hardware that runs that program. If the hardware fights the software, neither works properly.
| Orthotic Feature | Shoe Requirement | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Medial arch post | Firm midsole & heel counter | Holds arch height through stance |
| Forefoot extension | Deep, wide toe-box | Prevents dorsal rubbing & pinched nerves |
| Lateral flare | Stable, wide-base outsole | Improves balance for over-pronators |
Get the pairing right and most clients notice less fatigue and greater stability within weeks—not because of marketing magic, but because the device and shoe are finally working as one.
We review your current orthotic prescription—or conduct a fresh biomechanical exam if needed. High-speed video and pressure-plate mapping highlight where footwear must support, cushion, or simply stay out of the way.
You receive a personal PDF with 5–7 shoe models available in New Zealand, covering athletic, casual, and dress options. Each entry includes size tips, last shape, and any modification notes (e.g., remove 3 mm of factory foam). We don’t sell shoes, so there’s no brand bias—just clinician-backed advice.
Once you purchase a pair (in-store or online), bring it to the clinic or book a video consult. We confirm fit, heat-adjust shell edges if needed, and teach you the “two-finger heel test” so every future purchase stays orthotic-friendly.
Transparent Pricing: Your orthotic shoe fit is bundled into our First Visit Experience—no hidden fees.
“I’d given up on wearing office heels. Gait Doctor recommended a low-block court shoe that works with my orthotics. Three months later I’m back on my feet all day—without pain.”
— Sarah, Wellington
“Trail running used to wreck my arches. After the fitting, I found a stability trail shoe that actually holds my orthotics on rough ground. I finished the Tarawera 50 km pain-free.”
— Reuben, Rotorua
These stories illustrate what can happen when the device and the shoe finally align. Individual results vary, but proper pairing is always the first step.
Do I need “orthopaedic” shoes?
Not necessarily. Plenty of mainstream athletic and casual styles meet orthotic specs once the liner is removed.
Can I buy shoes online?
Yes—just measure both foot length and girth first. We provide a printable guide to cut down on returns.
How often should I replace orthotic-friendly shoes?
A good rule: swap them when midsoles stay compressed overnight or after 700–800 km of walking.
Will my orthotics work in dress shoes?
Full-length devices need depth. If a slim silhouette is essential, we can trim or craft a dress orthotic variant.
Does ACC cover footwear?
ACC typically funds orthotics, not shoes. Talk to us if you need clinical notes to support any reimbursement request.
Orthotic shoes NZ residents actually want to wear start with the right fit. Book your 45-minute Orthotic Footwear Consultation:
Gait & pressure analysis
Personalised shoe shortlist
Fit confirmation & minor adjustments
Email support for follow-up questions
Call 021 240 4248 or tap “Request a Consultation.” Your feet—and your future self—will thank you.
Address: Gait Doctor
59 Hastings Road, Mairangi Bay, Auckland 0630
Phone : 0212404248
Copyright 2023 by Gait Doctor Custom Orthotics