Orthotics are a part of a foot treatment regime used many times for individuals with foot or ankle concerns or conditions.
However, to enable you to wear orthotics, you need a more accommodating shoe.
So, we have chosen Brooks shoes with extra depth and wider width design, with removable insoles that will enable you to use your own orthotic devices.
Uses for Orthotics
Orthotic Devices and insole can be used to treat the following foot conditions and issues;
- Arthritis – Positioning orthotics may help to ease arthritis pain.
- Diabetic Feet – Diabetes may lead to numbness in your feet, for which you can use an orthotic for added protection, and you reduce excess stress under your feet, which may lead to ulcers.
- Hammertoes and Bunions – Toe separator pads or orthotic devices may be used for comfort when you have bunions or Hammertoes.
- Arch Support – Certain insoles offer specific arch support for a high or low arch types.[1]
- Injuries – Orthotics may treat foot and ankle injuries or trauma.
- Plantar Fasciitis – An orthotic heel pad can help with Plantar Fasciitis which causes heel pain.[2]
Choosing Shoes for Orthotics
When choosing a shoe to accommodate orthotics, you want a shoe with removable layers or insoles that allow for some extra depth to add and orthotics.
Shoes with a larger opening and wider width design are likewise more suitable to accommodate an orthotic device.[3]
Most shoes will accommodate insole orthotics. However, you may need more specialized designs for orthotics such as larger braces.
Features of a Good Brooks Shoe for Orthotics
- Uppers – Brooks shoes to accommodate orthotics will mostly have a removable insole, and availability in wider fits to accommodate your insoles or orthotics. Their Diabetic shoe models are perfect for accommodating orthotics as they have a deeper and more roomy design. Brooks shoe models may have breathable mesh or knit uppers that offer a more flexible and adaptable fit. Then they also have their full grain leather uppers models, which come with a lace-up, hook, and loop Velcro closure system. Brooks shoes are lined with a moisture-wicking lining. Their mesh and knit models have 3D print overlays for structure and stability.
- Midsole – Brooks shoes for orthotics can have any midsole required for softer cushioning or more reliable firmer cushioning. Their softest and most luxurious cushioning system is their DNA Loft cushioning system. Their DNA AMP cushioning consists of Pu foam with a thermoplastic rim that offers more energizing cushioning and expands underneath your feet. The DNA Flash midsole is their firmer and more stable midsole that minimizes weight. There are models with additional segmented crash pads for shock absorbency ad smoother heel-to-toe transition. Lastly, their BioMoGo DNA midsole is a more adaptable midsole ideal for orthotics as it adapts to your weight, speed, and stride for responsive cushioning.
- Support – You can choose Brooks Neutral, or GTS stability shoes as needed, though I would opt for stability shoes for orthotics. They have a Guiderail system that limits excessive motion slightly and provides better alignment, especially if you have a foot condition or overpronate. Their Extended Progressive Rollbar Technology used in some models is a more aggressive motion control approach that helps to stabilize and align your entire body for more natural motion.
- Outsole – Brooks shoes come with a durable, refer outsole that ensures good traction and slip resistance on most surfaces. Their trail models have a more lug and tacky TrailTack rubber outsole. Some models likewise have a slip-resistant outsole for better traction.
- Options – We have chosen Brooks shoe models for orthotics that are available in wide and extra widths to accommodate orthotics. Brooks shoes are available in full and half sizes and come in many color options.
Key Specs Compared
Numbers match the reviews below (tap to jump).
| No. | Shoe | Type | Upper | Cushioning (as listed) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brooks Addiction Walker | Walking Shoe | Leather | BioMoGo DNA |
| 2 | Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 | Running Shoe | Knit | DNA LOFT v3 |
| 3 | Brooks Glycerin Stealthfit 22 | Running Shoe | Knit | DNA Tuned |
| 4 | Brooks Glycerin GTS 23 | Running Shoe | Knit | DNA TUNED |
| 5 | Brooks Hyperion 3 | Running Shoe | Knit | Not stated |
– = not stated on the Amazon listing. Specs as stated by the listing, not tested by us; check the listing before you buy.
Reviews: The Best Brooks Shoes for Orthotics
In our list we have some shoe models from Brooks that have removable layers and wider width options which all allow you to use your orthotics;
1
Stability Walking Shoes for Orthotics
- I start with the Brooks Addiction Walker 2, hook and loop Velcro closure model for Orthotics.
- The Addiction Walker with Velcro closure is the most accommodating model for orthotics, the opening can be opened up wide, and it has a very roomy and extra-depth design so that you can use braces, insoles, and very thick orthotics with this model.
- It is available on wider widths, and the insole is removable, making it even more orthotic friendly.
- Other than that, the shoe is a durable full grain leather with Rollbar technology to take the strain off your feet and joints,
- It has a cushioned midsole for shock absorbency and a slip-resistant rubber outsole for stability.
- The shoe is a PDAC A5500 certified Diabetic shoe that offers good stability and vital arch support.
2
Supportive Cushioned Running Shoe for Daily Miles
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this running shoe is worth a look for Brooks shoes for orthotics.
- Featuring holistic GuideRails for Go-To Support and soft, dynamic premium nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning, it delivers distraction-free comfort mile after mile, which helps keep long stretches of running comfortable.
- Guiderails Holistic Support System: the brand’s innovative technology – known as “GTS” for “Go-To Support” – supports your body in its natural motion path while keeping excess movement in check.
- Even more premium nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning delivers lightweight softness, and feel-good comfort mile after mile, which helps keep long stretches of running comfortable.
- Trusted FIT: the breathable engineered mesh upper and flat-knit collar offer a secure, comfortable fit, providing both structure and flexibility to accommodate natural movement during active use.
- Smooth Transitions: the specially designed outsole and midsole work together to promote seamless transitions, ensuring comfort and support for every step, so you can stay active longer.
- Men’s and women’s versions are listed separately on Amazon, each with its own size range.
- Check the Amazon listing for current colors and size availability before you order.
3
Knit Stability Running Shoe for Daily Miles
The Brooks Glycerin Stealthfit 22 comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this running shoe is worth a look for Brooks shoes for orthotics.
- Prepare for smooth transitions with the Glycerin Stealthfit 22, featuring DNA Tuned, the latest midsole technology that seamlessly blends and integrates dual-size cells, ensuring a balance of plush landings and energetic toe-offs.
- Provides neutral support while offering the maximum amount of cushioning, a useful trait in Brooks shoes for orthotics.
- Cutting-edge cushion technology with larger cells in the heel to provide soft, plush landings, while smaller cells in the forefoot invite responsive toe-offs, which helps keep long stretches of running comfortable.
- Accommodating FIT: the updated soft, flat knit upper offers a blend of stretch and compression that moves with your foot for maximum comfort and a natural, adaptive feel.
- Smooth, Stable Transitions: the broad platform stabilizes your foot while the tuned heel and forefoot smooth heel-to-toe transitions, the kind of support many people look for in Brooks shoes for orthotics.
- Men’s and women’s versions are listed separately on Amazon, each with its own size range.
- Check the Amazon listing for current colors and size availability before you order.
4
Knit Stability Running Shoe for Road Runs
The Brooks Glycerin GTS 23 comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this running shoe is worth a look for Brooks shoes for orthotics.
- This Women’s Shoe IS FOR: the Glycerin GTS 23 blends plush comfort with smooth, stable support for distraction-free movement. Predecessor: Glycerin GTS 22, a useful trait in Brooks shoes for orthotics.
- Built-in GuideRails technology keeps excess motion in check by stabilizing the foot and aligning the knee, the kind of support many people look for in Brooks shoes for orthotics.
- Zonal nitrogen-infused DNA TUNED cushioning provides even more plushness in the forefoot, softening landings and energizing toe-offs, a useful trait in Brooks shoes for orthotics.
- Comfortable, Engineered Upper: a triple jacquard warp-knit upper delivers premium breathability and adaptive comfort in a streamlined package, which helps feet stay comfortable through running.
- With its 8mm offset and high-stack midsole, the Glycerin GTS 23 promotes a smooth, stable transition from heel to toe.
- Men’s and women’s versions are listed separately on Amazon, each with its own size range.
- Check the Amazon listing for current colors and size availability before you order.
5
Cushioned Lightweight Running Shoe for Daily Miles
The Brooks Hyperion 3 comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this running shoe is worth a look for Brooks shoes for orthotics.
- This Women’s Shoe IS FOR: the Hyperion 3 is designed for speed and versatility, helping you feel light and fast, so the shoe does not feel heavy during running.
- Faster Speeds: the nitrogen-infused DNA Flash v2 cushioning promotes quicker transitions and enhanced responsiveness, delivering a more powerful, springy ride, a useful trait in Brooks shoes for orthotics.
- Versatile Performance: lightweight, quick, and cushioned to power any run or gym session. The Hyperion 3 is ultra-responsive and springy, which helps keep long stretches of running comfortable.
- Breathable, Lightweight Upper: the light and breathable double jacquard knit upper ensures a secure midfoot lockdown, offering distraction-free comfort and support for versatile performance across all runs.
- Additional Benefits: the RoadTack rubber outsole is lightweight, durable, and designed for optimal rebound, while the knit collar and tongue, along with +2mm of cushioning in the sockliner, offer enhanced comfort and support for every step.
- Airy FIT: the upper locks down to provide security and speed, while its lightweight, breathable mesh provides comfort during long runs or hard workouts, worth noting if fit is a priority for Brooks shoes for orthotics.
- DNA GOLD 100% PEBA cushioning is the lightest, softest, and highest energy-return foam Brooks has ever created.
Index Table: Top Rated Brooks Shoes for Orthotics
| No. | Shoe | Men ♂ | Women ♀ | Features | Brand |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brooks® - Stability Walking Shoes for Orthotics |  |  |
| Brooks |
| 2 | Brooks® - Supportive Cushioned Running Shoe for Daily Miles |  |  |
| Brooks |
| 3 | Brooks® - Knit Stability Running Shoe for Daily Miles |  |  |
| Brooks |
| 4 | Brooks® - Knit Stability Running Shoe for Road Runs |  |  |
| Brooks |
| 5 | Brooks® - Cushioned Lightweight Running Shoe for Daily Miles |  |  |
| Brooks |
Sources
General background on foot health and footwear. This is not medical advice; see a doctor or podiatrist about foot pain or a foot condition.
- Cleveland Clinic: Flat Feet (Pes Planus)
- Cleveland Clinic: Orthotics
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (OrthoInfo): Athletic Shoes
Update History
- Oct 2026: Updated Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 to Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25
- Oct 2026: Updated Brooks Launch 9 to Brooks Glycerin Stealthfit 22
- Oct 2026: Updated Brooks Glycerin 20 StealthFit to Brooks Glycerin GTS 23
- Oct 2026: Updated Brooks Ariel 20 to Brooks Hyperion 3
- Oct 2026: Removed Brooks Hyperion Tempo (unavailable)
- Aug 2022: First published
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