If you or your child use an orthotic, the first question about a new pair of shoes is often a practical one: will it fit? A shoe can be the right length and width and still feel tight because there is simply not enough room above the foot. That is where removable insoles shoes can make a difference. This guide explains, in plain language, what removable insoles do, how some BILLY Footwear styles use them, and how to test the fit with a custom orthotic or brace.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Your orthotist, podiatrist or physiotherapist knows your or your child's needs and should guide any decision about orthotics.
What removable insoles do
An insole (sometimes called a footbed) is the layer your foot rests on inside the shoe. In many shoes it is glued down. In shoes with removable insoles, you can lift it out.
Why does that matter?
- Depth. Taking out an insole increases the space between the sole of the foot and the top of the shoe. This is often called depth adjustability, and it is why these shoes are described as extra depth shoes in some listings.
- Room for an orthotic. A custom orthotic or an ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) takes up volume. Removing the shoe's own insole creates space for it.
- Fine-tuning. If feet change through the day or through the seasons, some people prefer to adjust the shoe rather than buy a new pair.
Removing an insole is not a way to force a too-small shoe to fit. If a shoe is too short or too narrow, removing the insole will not fix it.
BILLY: two 3mm removable insoles on many styles (check product page)
On the product pages for many BILLY Footwear styles, the features list mentions removable insoles that allow depth adjustability. For example, the Black BILLY Goat is described as having two 3mm removable insoles and a dense foam wedge insert that provide stability and depth adjustability, and a custom shoe shape with additional width and volume in the toe box, vamp, quarter and heel areas. You can see it on the Black BILLY Goat product page, and browse more styles in the BILLY kids Goat collection.
Other styles describe insoles differently. For example, the BILLY Comfort Luxe leather shoes list two additional spacer insoles for extra depth adjustability. Because details differ by model, please read the features list on the page of the exact shoe you want, and message us if you are unsure.
Our AFO-friendly collection brings together styles built with braces in mind. For a general explanation of what to look for, see our post on what makes a shoe AFO-friendly.
Using your clinic's orthotic
If you have a custom orthotic from your clinic, here are some general points to keep in mind:
- Ask your orthotist first. They can tell you whether the orthotic is designed to replace the shoe's insole, sit on top of it, or be used with a specific type of shoe.
- Bring it with you when you try shoes. Fit with the orthotic in place, not just the shoe on its own.
- Do not stack layers without advice. Adding an orthotic on top of the original insole can reduce depth in ways you did not intend.
- Check the heel. The heel should sit comfortably and the orthotic should not shift or fold when you walk.
- Keep the original insoles. Store them safely in case your orthotist suggests a change.
We cannot confirm that any particular orthotic will suit any particular shoe, because that depends on the orthotic itself. What we can do is help you with sizing, widths and the shoe's features, and you can share your orthotist's advice with us.
How to test fit with and without insoles
A simple home routine can help you understand the options.
Step 1: Start with the shoe's original setup
Put the shoe on with the insoles it came with, and the sock you will normally wear. Fasten it fully. Stand up, walk a few steps and notice how it feels at the toes, instep (top of the foot) and heel.
Step 2: Remove one insole layer at a time
If the shoe has more than one insole or spacer, take out one layer and repeat the walk. Notice whether the pressure on the top of the foot eases and whether the heel still feels secure.
Step 3: Try the orthotic or brace
Place the orthotic in the shoe, with or without the original insole as your clinician advises, and put the shoe on. Check the length (toes should not be pressed against the front), the width, and the height at the top of the foot. If you use a brace, put it on first, as it would be worn.
Step 4: Look for warning signs
Red marks, pinching, a heel that lifts or pain should be taken seriously. Remove the shoes and speak to your orthotist or podiatrist. If your child is young, watch the foot after shoes come off, because they may not tell you.
Our post on how to size adaptive footwear with confidence has more on the measuring side.
Ask your orthotist
Some questions you might take to your next appointment:
- Should my orthotic replace the shoe's insole or go on top of it?
- How much depth do we need for this brace or orthotic?
- Should we choose a wider fit?
- How often should my child's orthotic be checked as they grow?
If you would like a printable list, our post on questions to ask your orthotist before buying shoes goes into more detail.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use my custom orthotic in BILLY shoes?
Many BILLY styles have removable insoles to make room for orthotics, but compatibility depends on your orthotic and the shoe. Please ask your orthotist and message us with details before ordering.
Will removing the insole make a small shoe fit?
No. It adds depth, not length or width. Choose the correct size first.
Do all BILLY shoes have removable insoles?
No. Insole details differ by model, so check the features list on each product page.
Need help choosing?
If you are comparing styles, send us the width, the orthotic or brace details and your child's foot length on WhatsApp, and we will help you shortlist. Explore the AFO-friendly collection. Unworn items can be returned within 14 days of delivery.