Finding shoes that fit over a brace is one of the most common frustrations adults describe. A pair that fits perfectly on a bare foot may not close at all once an AFO is in place, and sizing up in a regular shoe often means a sloppy fit in the heel or an awkward shape. This guide explains, in plain language, what makes a shoe easier to wear with a brace and highlights BILLY styles for men and women that you can explore at FARID HUB.
A quick note: this is shopping guidance and not medical advice. Your orthotist or physiotherapist knows your brace and your needs. Please check with them before choosing footwear.
Different braces, different space needs
"Brace" covers a lot of different devices, and each takes up space in its own way. In very general terms:
- AFO (ankle-foot orthosis): a brace that usually sits inside the shoe and runs up the back or side of the lower leg. It tends to take up space both under and around the foot and ankle.
- SMO (supramalleolar orthosis): a lower brace that generally supports the foot and ankle area without reaching as far up the leg.
- Other leg braces and orthotics: these vary widely, from custom insoles to longer braces.
Even two people with the same type of AFO can need different amounts of room, because of the brace's thickness, the foot's shape, the socks they wear and whether swelling comes and goes. That is why we do not claim that any shoe fits any specific brace model. The only reliable test is to try the shoe with your brace on, and ask your orthotist what they recommend.
Features: depth, removable insoles, wide opening
When you look for shoes to wear with leg braces, these are the features that tend to make the biggest difference.
- A wide opening. If the upper opens fully, you can lower your foot and brace into the shoe rather than forcing them through a narrow throat. BILLY's wrap-around FlipTop zipper is designed for this.
- Depth you can adjust. Several BILLY styles come with removable insoles and spacer insoles, which lets you change the interior depth. The Goat and the Limitless pages mention two additional spacer insoles for extra depth adjustability.
- A roomy shape. The BILLY Goat is described as having a custom last that provides additional width and volume in the toe box, vamp, quarter and heel areas.
- Choice of widths. The adult styles we reviewed are offered in Medium, Wide and Extra-Wide, depending on the style. A broader width can make more room around a brace.
- Adjustable laces plus a zipper. You can set the laces to the right tension and use the zipper to get in and out, which many people find easier than lacing every time.
- A soft lining. Padding and a smooth interior reduce rubbing where the brace meets the shoe.
You will find these designs gathered in our BILLY Men's Full Wrap Zip collection, and you can also compare more options in the men's AFO-friendly and women's AFO-friendly collections.
Men's picks
BILLY Goat
The Men's Charcoal BILLY Goat was made in collaboration with certified orthotists for use with braces, orthotics and prosthetics, per the product page. It has a short wrap zipper with adjustable laces, a triple-layered warp knit lining, two additional spacer insoles and a dense foam wedge insert for depth adjustability, and a lateral heel flare and slight forefoot rocker. It is listed in Medium, Wide and Extra-Wide. "Goat" is the model name, so we always keep it in Latin letters.
BILLY Limitless
The Men's Black BILLY Limitless has a full wrap zipper with adjustable laces and a sensory-friendly lining with a nearly seamless tongue and zipper guard. It includes two additional spacer insoles and an extra-wide loop pull for people with limited dexterity. Widths are Medium, Wide and Extra-Wide.
Women's picks
BILLY Limitless for women
The Women's Blush BILLY Limitless offers the same design as the men's version in women's sizing with extended sizes, with widths from Medium to Extra-Wide. That includes the full wrap zipper, adjustable laces, spacer insoles and wide loop pull.
Other women's styles
For a sportier look, the Women's Black/White/Gum BILLY Sport Inclusion DZ1 has a double zipper, adjustable laces, a breathable mesh upper and two additional spacer insoles. For a smarter look, the BILLY Comfort Luxe in leather has a zipper, adjustable laces and spacer insoles. Browse the women's collections linked above to see current colours.
Please check each product page for current sizing and availability, because these change.
Tips for trying shoes with your brace
- Bring your brace. Always try shoes with the brace on, and wear the socks you normally use.
- Try later in the day. If your foot swells, it is usually larger in the afternoon.
- Open the shoe fully first. Put the brace and foot in, then close the zipper and laces gradually.
- Check heel and toes. Your heel should feel secure and your toes should have room to move without pressing against the front.
- Look for pressure. After a few minutes of walking, check for red marks where the brace meets the shoe.
- Fit the larger foot. If you wear a brace on one leg only, your feet may need different space, so ask your clinician how to handle it.
- Message us with your brace type. Tell us on WhatsApp what brace you use, your foot measurements and the style you like. We cannot guarantee a fit, but we can share what the product pages say and help you choose sizes and widths. Delivery in the UAE is free over AED 500, and unworn items can be returned within 14 days.
Our size guide explains how to measure.
FAQ
Will BILLY shoes fit over my AFO? Many BILLY styles are designed with a wide opening, removable insoles and extra room, and some are labelled AFO-friendly. However, braces vary a great deal, so we cannot promise a fit. Try the shoe with your brace, ask your orthotist, and contact us on WhatsApp if you have questions.
What width should I choose if I wear a brace? Many people with braces start by considering Wide or Extra-Wide, because it gives more room around the foot and ankle. The right choice depends on your foot and brace, so measure and try on if possible.
Do I need to buy shoes in a bigger size for my brace? Not always. Depth and width can matter more than length. A shoe that is too long can be unstable, so aim for a fit that keeps the heel secure and leaves room where the brace needs it.
Browse the collections
Explore the men's AFO-friendly collection, the women's AFO-friendly collection or BILLY Men's Full Wrap Zip, and message us on WhatsApp for sizing help.