Whether or not you can put orthotics in water shoes is a common question for those looking for comfortable and supportive footwear for beach and water activities. The quick answer is that it depends on the type of orthotic and water shoe. Custom orthotics generally cannot be used in water shoes, but there are some over-the-counter orthotic inserts that may work with certain water shoe styles.
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What are Orthotics?
Orthotics are devices that are inserted into shoes to provide support, relieve pressure, and help correct alignment issues in the feet. They come in a variety of types:
- Custom orthotics are molded specifically for an individual’s feet from a cast or scan. They are the most rigid and contoured type of orthotic.
- Semi-custom orthotics are heat molded to fit an individual’s feet rather than being fully custom made.
- Prefabricated or over-the-counter orthotics come in standard shapes and sizes and can be adjusted to an extent to fit the wearer’s feet.
Orthotics help treat many foot conditions like plantar fasciitis, bunions, hammertoes, heel spurs, and injuries or pain in the ankle, knee, hip or back by improving alignment and support. Those with flat feet, high arches, and other foot issues often benefit from using orthotics.
What are Water Shoes?
Water shoes, also known as aqua socks or beach shoes, are footwear designed specifically for use in and around water. They have a number of features that make them ideal for water environments:
- Mesh uppers allow water to drain quickly and thoroughly from the shoes.
- Textured rubber outsoles provide traction on slippery, wet surfaces.
- Neoprene or spandex uppers mold to the feet like wet suits.
- Adjustable straps or pull tabs allow for a secure fit.
- Protective toe caps guard against stubbing toes on rocks or debris.
Water shoes help protect feet from cuts, abrasions, and puncture wounds from shells, rocks, coral, and other hazards commonly encountered in water environments. They provide a barrier against unsanitary and contaminated water. Their slip-resistant soles give good traction for walking in the water or on boats, docks, and pool decks.
Can You Put Custom Orthotics in Water Shoes?
Custom orthotics are designed to fit precisely into specific footwear and cannot be transferred easily to shoes other than those they were made for. The rigid structure and molded shape of custom orthotics makes them incompatible with water shoes in most cases. There are a few reasons for this:
- The uppers of water shoes are thin and flexible rather than sturdy and supportive like typical orthotic-compatible shoes.
- Water shoe soles are flat rather than contoured to accommodate an orthotic device.
- Orthotics need to fit tightly in footwear so they stay firmly in place as you walk. The loose fit of water shoes may not hold orthotics properly.
- Taking custom orthotics in and out of improper footwear can damage their shape and structure, reducing their effectiveness and lifespan.
For these reasons, most podiatrists and orthotic specialists recommend keeping custom orthotics only in the shoes they were made for. Using them in water shoes or any improper footwear can alter their fit and alignment and undermine their intended benefits.
Can You Put Over-the-Counter Orthotics in Water Shoes?
While custom orthotics are generally not suitable for water shoes, some over-the-counter inserts may work depending on the specific style of water shoe. Consider the following when choosing an insert to use with water shoes:
- Type of insert – Look for thin, semi-rigid inserts that provide arch support but have some flexibility. Soft, cushy gel inserts are likely to shift around inside water shoes.
- Fit – The insert should fit snugly within the water shoe without sliding around or needing to be trimmed down significantly.
- Style of water shoe – Look for water shoes with enclosed heels, adjustable straps, or a rear pull tab to help hold the insert in place.
- Activities – Make sure to select an insert suited for your intended activities. High impact inserts work for water aerobics while more flexible inserts are better for casual beachwear.
Here are a few top options that tend to work well in water shoes:
| Orthotic Insert | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Powerstep Pinnacle Maxx | Semi-rigid arch support, anti-microbial top fabric, low profile |
| Superfeet BLUE | Firm heel cup, stabilizer cap, fits narrower shoe styles |
| Spenco Rx Thin Light | Forefoot cushioning, flexible nylon plate, thin and smooth finish |
Always try orthotic inserts with your water shoes on before use. Walk around and make sure they fit properly within the shoes and do not slip or slide too much when wet. It is ideal if you can get the inserts wet before use as well to ensure they will hold up when soaked.
Tips for Using Orthotics in Water Shoes
If you find over-the-counter orthotic inserts that work well with your water shoes, here are some useful tips for getting the best performance and fit:
- Clean and dry your feet and the inserts thoroughly before placing them in your water shoes each time you wear them.
- Make any small adjustments needed in sizing or shape so the inserts fit snugly within the water shoes.
- Tighten straps or pull tabs on the water shoes so your heel stays in place when walking.
- Select water shoes made with smooth lining materials so the inserts won’t catch or stick inside them.
- Consider using an adhesive like Moleskin to help hold inserts firmly in place.
- Bring an extra pair of inserts in case the ones in your water shoes get displaced or wet.
- Take the inserts out to dry after each use and replace them regularly so they maintain their supportive shape and cushioning.
Keep in mind that orthotics work best when used consistently in proper supportive footwear so they are able to provide their intended benefits. The flexibility and adjustability of water shoe styles may limit their effectiveness somewhat.
Other Options for Supportive Water Shoes
If you are unable to find orthotic inserts that work well with your water shoes, consider these alternative options to help provide comfort, support, and stabilization:
- Wear water shoes with built-in arch support. Some styles have contours, footbeds, and structures to provide arch support without a separate insert.
- Choose water shoes with ankle straps to enhance stability if you have issues like weak ankles or poor balance.
- Opt for water shoes made with shank support through the midfoot for rigidity and structure if you need more arch support.
- Wear your orthotics in secure sandals or water-friendly shoes at the pool, beach, or water’s edge and keep a separate pair of well-fitting water shoes for the water only.
- Look for water shoes specially designed to accommodate orthotics if you need firm arch support in the water. They have removable insoles and firm heel counters.
Talk to your podiatrist about the right solutions to provide the support you need without compromising the fit and function of your water shoes.
Conclusion
Putting orthotics of any kind into water shoes is tricky. Custom orthotics are generally too rigid to work in the flexible, adjustable styles of most water shoes. Certain over-the-counter inserts may work with some water shoe designs if they are the right size, shape and material. Look for thin, semi-rigid inserts that fit the water shoe snugly and stay in place when wet. Enclosed heels and adjustable straps also help keep inserts from shifting around. When possible, choose water shoes with built-in arch support or stability features so you don’t have to add orthotics. With some trial and error, you may find an insert style and water shoe combination that works well to keep you comfortable and supported, even in and around the water.