School Shoes & Orthoses

Image of Ivor Davies and Branxton . Image provided by Linda Finney

Written by Ivor Davies

Children spend at least 30 hours a week wearing school shoes and, in order to achieve maximum benefit from their orthoses, they need to be properly fitted with footwear that possesses the following attributes:

• Durable shock absorbing soles that flex from the ball of the foot and are resistant to twist;

• Strong heel cups that firmly hold the heels and are deep enough to accommodate orthoses;

• Sufficient length to allow for growth but not so long as to compromise fit;

• Correct width to support the foot - not too tight or too loose!

Feet come in many different shapes and sizes, yet Clarks Premium range is the only range available that recognise this fact (note this does not include ALL Clarks). The Premium range comes in 6 different widths, a most important aspect of shoe fitting that is often overlooked. It is also available in half sizes, allowing ‘fine tuning’ for the best possible fit. Some brands try to meet the need for width adjustment by supplying additional innersoles which can be added or removed to accommodate a broad or narrow foot. Unfortunately, such an approach fails to recognise the difference in heel shape between various width feet; a factor that greatly affects the ability of the shoe to hold an orthosis in place.

Style is often a consideration, with Velcro fastening and Mary Janes proving popular choices, but these options do not combine with an orthosis as successfully as a lace-up. The finer adjustment afforded by lace-ups allow for much better support over the full length of the instep and maximises the effectiveness of the orthotic.

Davies Shoes, Mayfield, offers expert advice and fitting from people who understand the importance of foot health. We also stock Clarks Premium school shoes all year round.