Your Guide to Finding AFO-Friendly Footwear

What is an AFO?
An ankle foot orthosis, or AFO, is a hard type of brace that is worn on the foot and ankle. It is made of thermoplastic and fastened using Velcro straps.

What is an AFO used for and what does it do?
AFOs can;
-support the foot, ankle, and lower limb
-prevent soft tissue contractures
-help make walking easier

How often should the AFO be worn?
Your healthcare provider will give you instructions about how long to wear the AFO.

What to look for in footwear?
Whether you are looking for a running shoe, boot, or sandal, here are some helpful features to look for:
-wide opening
-fasteners your child can manage
-durable
-good support
-easy to take on and off
-removable insole (running shoes and boots)
-tongue (running shoes and boots)
-deep shoe (running shoes)
-adjustable straps (sandals)

Shoe Modifications
Some shoes might not have Velcro or laces that are long enough. You might need to buy longer shoes laces or sew on extra pieces Velcro. You might also need to make other modifications to the shoe, like:
- sew additional straps onto different parts of the shoe
- remove the insoles
- adjust or remove the tongue 
- add protective pieces or other items to reinforce the shoe

Shopping Tips
Your healthcare provider may have recommendations of a local shoe store with experience fitting AFO-friendly footwear. Here are some specific stores you can visit:

One Small Step - 634 Stonechurch Road W., Hamilton
Al’s Shoe Factory Outlet - 35 King George Road, Brantford

Online Shopping
Ideally, your child will be able to try their shoes on before purchase, but if you decide to buy online, try to:
- buy from stores with cheap/free shipping
- buy from stores with easy and free/cheap returns
- reach out to the groups listed under “Support Groups” for feedback and suggestions

Support Groups
There are a number of active and helpful parent-run support groups on social media. Some of these include:
PAL Parent Advocacy Link
Parents of kids with AFO, SMO And KAFO
AFO Support Group for Parents of young kids in foot orthoses
AFO Shoe Exchange

When to contact your Healthcare Provider
Your healthcare provider is here to help! Contact your healthcare provider if:
- the AFO is no longer fitting properly 
- the AFO causes areas of your skin to become red, blistered, or there are open sores
- you are having difficulty finding a pair of shoes to fit with your AFOs
- your AFO is broken and needs to be repaired

Understanding Your Shoe Prescription
Please use the diagram below to help understand the shoe prescription your healthcare provider gave you.