Orthofeet vs. KURU vs. Hoka vs. On Cloud: Who is Best for Orthopedic Shoes?

What Are Orthopedic Shoes? 

An orthopedic shoe is a custom-made shoe designed for people whose one or both feet cannot fit into standard models.Orthopedic shoes can be worn permanently (foot deformity, pathology, etc.) or temporarily (post-surgery, for example).

There are also models known as comfort shoes. Although not made-to-measure, these products are designed to improve walking comfort in cases of flat or hollow feet, hallux valgus, etc.

Here are six signs that you may need  orthopedic shoes. 

• You have flat feet

• You have high arches

• You have heel pain

• You have foot pain or swelling when you walk 

• You have problems with your balance

• You have diabetic neuropathy

Orthofeet vs. KURU vs. Hoka vs. On Cloud Overviews

• Orthofeet Orthopedic Shoes Review

What Is Orthofeet?

Orthofeet, Inc. was founded in 1984 by the Bar brothers, Aharon, a PhD in biomedical engineering, and Michael, a mechanical engineer.During the first 15 years of its operation, Orthofeet developed and manufactured innovative orthotics that have been sold primarily to the orthopedic market.

Its patented custom-made orthotics are based on expandable foam, which molds directly to the foot, thus eliminating the step of taking a cast of the foot, and allowing instant fabrication on site. Orthofeet’s unique off-the-shelf orthotics are designed with a special moldable construction, which allows dynamic shaping to the contours of the foot for enhanced comfort and performance.

In 2000, Orthofeet introduced the Orthotics Shoe, a high-end line of depth shoes that combines attractive styling with innovative comfort features. Orthofeet has realized that it can substantially improve the shoe’s performance by adding a functional support to the bottom of the foot, a crucial feature, which was lacking in most shoes, including high-end comfort shoes. 

Using its expertise in foot biomechanics and orthotics design, Orthofeet has integrated in all of its shoes a customized orthotic, which provides precise support along with excellent cushioning. The combination of the orthotic support and the shoe’s other unique comfort features, such as relaxed fitting last, ergonomic sole, and soft padded lining, has resulted in an exceptional wearing experience and unsurpassed comfort.

Orthofeet Orthopedic Design & Style

Orthofeet focuses on creating shoes with a therapeutic and functional design to address specific foot conditions and provide pain relief. The shoes often feature extra-depth design, adjustable features, and soft interior linings to accommodate various foot issues.

Some key features of Orthofeet shoes include extra-depth design to accommodate orthotic inserts and swollen feet, soft interior linings to minimize friction and enhance comfort, and a lightweight construction for reduced fatigue. 

One thing we love about the Orthofeet website is the ability to filter by common foot conditions like achilles tendon, back pain, bunions, diabetes, overpronation, heel spurs, and much more. 

What’s more, Orthofeet also sells orthotic inserts, which can be used with the brand’s footwear or inserted into other compatible shoes. These inserts are designed to provide arch support, cushioning, and shock absorption for added comfort and foot stability.

Orthofeet Orthopedic Quality (Technology & Comfort)

Using its expertise in foot biomechanics & orthotics design, Orthofeet footwear has integrated in all of its shoes a customized orthotic, which provides precise support along with excellent cushioning. 

The combination of the orthotic support & the shoe's other unique comfort features, such as relaxed fitting last, ergonomic sole, and soft padded lining, has resulted in an exceptional wearing experience & unsurpassed comfort.

The unique lining construction of Orthofeet shoes enhances comfort and protection. The non-binding design along with elastic elements of the Orthofeet shoes for men and women eliminate pressure on sensitive feet and painful foot conditions.

Orthofeet Orthopedic Shoes Pros and Cons

Where to Buy Orthofeet Shoes Cheapest?

1. orthofeet.com

2. orthoticshop.com

3. healthyfeetstore.com

Two Popular Orthofeet Orthopedic Shoes

1. Orthofeet Edgewear Stretch Knit (@$114.99)

Guarding your pressure points, Edgewear is made with the Ortho-Cushion™ System, an orthotic, removable insole that provides ergonomic cushioning to lessen impacts and adds a light bounce to your step. Take on hikes, backyard games, and other activities with ease with the advanced grip and padded interior.

 2.Orthofeet Coral No-Tie Lace Black  (@$114.95)

The Orthofeet Coral No-Tie Lace Black sneakers come in three inclusive widths: medium (B), wide (D), and Extra Wide (2E). Fitted with the Ortho-Cushion System, they’re made with removable orthotic insoles with anatomical arch support for a custom fit. Being able to add orthotic insoles is a plus.

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• KURU Orthopedic Shoes Review

Waht Is KURU?

Kuru officially launched in 2008 in Salt Lake City, Utah.What began as the 5th-grade shoe sketches of KURU’s Founder and CEO is now a thriving footwear company that has given tens of thousands of people life-changing foot pain relief.

KURU’s secret sauce is in its patented solution to heel pain relief, KURUSOLE. This unique, adaptive technology dynamically flexes with each step to hug and protect your heels for lasting heel pain relief.

With a mission to help people Heel Better™ by eliminating foot pain, KURU offers a wide variety of ultra-supportive footwear for women and men—from sneakers to boots to flip-flops—all built with superior arch support, shock-absorbing cushion, and heel-hugging pain relief. And with 45-day returns and exchanges, you can ensure you get the perfect fit.

KURU Orthopedic Shoes Design & Style

KURU Orthopedic Quality (Technology & Comfort)

Designed and developed in the USA, Kuru shoes are produced by the brand’s partners in Asia under strict manufacturing practices. Each shoe has two main features that make it unique:

The first is KURUSOLE, a patented, flexible cushion that conforms to your foot and cups your heel to lighten the impact. Goodbye, orthotics! Thanks to space-age foam, these shoes provide triple the support for the full length of your foot (heel, arch, and ankle), helping to perfectly align your body.

The other is KURUCLOUD, a cushioned insole that increases the cupping support of the KURUSOLE. The result is a bouncy, energetic stride.

KURU Orthopedic Shoes Pros and Cons

Where to Buy Kuru Shoes Cheapest?

1. kurufootwear.com

2. amazon.com

3. macys.com: up to 5% cashback

Two Popular KURU Orthopedic Shoes

1.Kuru Atom (@$160)

Kuru Atom combines this company’s signature features, KURUCLOUD and KURUSOLE which provide a cloud-like feel that hugs and supports your heels while helping propel you forward. As the brand’s highest performance sneaker to date, it uses a flared midsole and toe box for a balanced stride.

Designed for superior athletic performance, the forefoot is slightly slimmer than orthotic shoes. They look great too, made from a mix of materials for a modern look, with mesh for breathability and non-marking rubber on the outside for added grip.

2.Kuru Quantum (@$155)

Kuru Quantum is an athletic sneaker. Its purpose? To help you crush your fitness goals. Helping you go further and faster than you thought possible with regular sneakers, it molds to the shape of your foot for a custom ride.

Made to support your arch, absorb shock, and help you move pain-free, Quantum puts your body in perfect alignment to prevent stress-related injuries. It’s lightweight and breathable thanks to moisture-wicking mesh, with a wider toe box for extra wiggling room.

• Hoka Orthopedic Shoes Review

What Is Hoka?

Hoka is celebrated for its maximalist approach to cushioning that has earned the podiatric APMA Seal of Acceptance, indicating the shoes promote good foot health. 

The brand was founded in 2009 by two avid runners, Jean-Luc Diard and Nicolas Mermoud, who aimed to create a shoe that would provide enhanced cushioning and support for runners, particularly those tackling longer distances. 

Plenty of doctors and podiatrists have recommended Hoka for its beneficial design and enhanced cushioning. Tim Dutra, DPM, M.S., MHCA, says, "Hoka offers a variety of shoes with a wide range of cushioning and support and width options, and Hoka shoes are a favorite of runners, walkers, and hikers." 

Maybe it's the brand's Meta-Rocker technology that employs a curved sole geometry for a smooth and efficient gait cycle, or maybe it's the maximalist cushion that reduces the impact on joints and improves overall gait dynamics. 

Hoka shoes deliver ample shock absorption and reduce impact on joints, which is a favorable experience for many of us.

Hoka Orthopedic Design & Style

Hoka offers walking and running shoes for women and men. The original Clifton is legendary among Hoka fans and marked a turning point for the brand-it proved that a shoe could provide maximum cushion without being clunky. The latest version continues that tradition and is designed as an everyday training shoe. 

Arahi, Clifton L,  Bondi, Mach, Gaviota, these shoes provided enough cushioning to soften rough terrain and return energy but weren't so heavy that they weighed down runners. Wendy Yang married elite athleticism with back-of-the-pack effort and ultra-human narratives; and stellar timing in terms of tapping the fashion trend for 'high integrity' ugly sneakers. Their shoes are typically made in very bright colors and thus have a unique look to them.

Hoka Orthopedic Quality (Technology & Comfort)

Hoka produces both low-profile and max-cushion shoes for road, trail, and all-terrain; throughout its product line, Hoka shoes retain features like a low weight-to-cushion ratio and midsole and outsole geometry designed to promote inherent stability and an efficient stride. At first, Hoka One One's sneakers caught the attention of long-distance marathon runners. Thanks to the enhanced cushioning and the improved stability that the oversized outsole provides. Very quickly, they also became popular with all types of runners, as they are quite lightweight and offer maximum cushioning.

 Hokas are known for their meta rocker technology that helps your foot to roll as you take a stride, meaning that you'll put less pressure on your forefoot. The Hoka J-Frame support system provides great stability, ProFly foam for softness, and rocker-style midsole for energy return. The Meta-Rocker sole promotes a smooth stride, and the mesh upper has been tweaked for improved breathability, too. 

Hoka Orthopedic Shoes Pros and Cons

Where to Buy Hoka Shoes Cheapest?

1. hoka.com: up to 3% cashback

2. dickssportinggoods.com: up to 2% cashback

3. marathonsports.com: up to 8% cashback

Two Popular Hoka Orthopedic Shoes

1.Hoka Bondi 8 (@$165)

This is Hoka's most cushioned shoe, and also one of the best maximalist running shoes out there. You can expect tons of bounce from this shoe as the tall stack height is designed to absorb impact with every step.

Despite the max cushion of this shoe, wearers are surprised by how lightweight it feels. 

2.Hoka Clifton 9(@$145)

We recommends the Clifton 9 for those with flat feet who need enhanced stability in their shoes. Its meta rocker will make every step feel bouncy and smooth. Plus, its’ wide toe box makes this a great pick for people with wide feet. The knit material molds to the shape of your foot to eliminate sliding and overpronation, making this a great pick for a variety of foot types. They’re made for all seasons, too. The shoes are breathable and lightweight, yet supportive and stabilizing.

It’s hard to say who shouldn’t try this best-selling Hoka model, which is why you’ll find the Clifton 9 in our roundups of the best sneakers for standing all day, best shoes for arch support, best shoes for knee pain, best gym shoes, and the best shoes for high arches.

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• On Cloud Orthopedic Shoes Review

What Is On Cloud?

On Cloud is known for its innovative running shoes that emphasize lightweight design, responsive cushioning, and unique sole technology.

The brand was founded in Switzerland in 2010 by Olivier Bernhard, Caspar Coppetti, and David Allemann, who sought to create running shoes that would provide a comfortable and natural running experience. 

To this day, all products are Swiss-engineered in the On Lab, with a low carbon footprint from alternative materials.

Featured in The Wall Street Journal where it was acclaimed that, “On combines the best of a traditional and minimalist running shoe while staying exceptionally light,” On’s products have seen much praise.Along with a 500k following on Instagram, the brand has won more than one international design and technology award including the ISPO Gold Award for the Best Performance Shoes.

Today, you can buy On running shoes at over 6,500 premium retail stores in over 50 countries. The brand has provided running shoes to over 7 million runners worldwide. 

On Cloud Orthopedic Design & Style

The hallmark feature of On Cloud shoes is the brand's CloudTec technology, which involves individual pods or "clouds" integrated into the sole of the shoe. 

These clouds are designed to provide cushioning and support during both landing and push-off phases of running. When the foot strikes the ground, the clouds compress to absorb impact, and when the foot pushes off, the clouds firm up to aid in propulsion. 

What's more, the shoes are designed to adapt to the runner's gait and provide a responsive feel, promoting a smooth and comfortable stride.

On Cloud shoes are lightweight, which can be particularly appealing to runners who prioritize agility and a more minimalistic feel.

Plus, with a range of shoe models tailored to different running preferences, terrains, and styles.

On Cloud Orthopedic Quality (Technology & Comfort)

On Cloud shoes are known for their CloudTec technology, which features individual pods or "clouds" in the sole that provide a balance of cushioning and responsiveness. The focus is on lightweight design and quick transitions. Cloud shoes are often favored by runners who appreciate a more agile and natural feel underfoot. 

On goes against the grain of most stability shoes and works with your foots motion rather than trying to stop it. I appreciate this as it’s one of the many reasons I steer folks away from most stability shoes.

Instead, they changed the shape and location of some of the pieces under the arch of the foot which allows all of your muscles to continue firing, but slows that inward roll.

On Cloud Orthopedic Shoes Pros and Cons

Where to Buy On Cloud Shoes Cheapest?

1. on.com

2. dickssportinggoods.com: up to 2% cashback

3. zappos.com: up to 11.5% cashback

Two Popular On Cloud Orthopedic Shoes

1.On Running Cloudmonster (@$169.99)

Featuring the brand’s thickest CloudTec® cushioning, On’s CloudMonster is a highly supportive shoe. As the name suggests, the shoe offers a sensation similar to running on fluffy cumulus clouds. The monstrous Cloud elements meet an ultra powerful Speedboard® which result in extremely soft landings and maximum rebound. 

This footwear amplifies the emphasis on cushioning while still maintaining a lightweight feel. 

2.On Cloud 5 (@$139.99)

This On-fan favorite is re-engineered with 44% recycled content, improved fit and even more comfort than the On Cloud 4. Crafted for extended comfort throughout the day, it features a breathable antimicrobial mesh upper and a patented zero-gravity Cloudtec cushioning to ensure a gentler impact with each stride. 

What truly distinguishes this shoe is its distinctive speed-lacing mechanism, so you won’t have to worry about your laces coming loose or undone.

Orthofeet vs. KURU vs. Hoka vs. On Cloud Key Differences

 1.The Cost

• Orthofeet 

Orthofeet Shoes prices range from $140 to $160, depending on the design and model., and some clearance shoes low to $99.95.

Orthofeet’s top three best sellers with prices:

1. Coral Stretch Knit ($145.00)

2. Charlotte ($110.00)

3. Tahoe Tie-Less ($140.00)

• KURU 

Kuru shoes range in price from $75 to $185, with its bestselling Atom shoe costing $160.

KURU’s top three best sellers with prices:

1. ATOM ($160.00)

2. QUANTUM ($160.00)

3. ROAM ($125.00-135.00)

• Hoka

HOKA shoes generally start between $100 and $130 for basic designs. Premium models with advanced cushioning and features can range from $130 to $250 or higher.

HOKA’s top three best sellers with prices:

1. Bondi 8 ($165.00)

2. Clifton 9 ($145.00)

3. Arahi 6 ($140.00)

• On Cloud

On Cloud shoes typically fall within a midrange price category, making them more accessible to a broader group. Prices for On Cloud shoes start around $100 and can go up to around $200 for certain specialized models with advanced features. 

On Cloud top three best sellers with prices:

1.  Cloud 5 ($140.00)

2. Cloudflow ($140.00)

3. Cloudboom Echo 3 ($289.99)

2.Shoes  Fit

• Orthofeet 

Orthofeet shoes feature wide toe boxes and wide fit options—even going so far as to have both wide and extra wide sizing. 

Orthofeet also provides a unique option to help customers achieve the perfect fit with two sizes of “spacers” included with each pair of shoes. These spacers are essentially insoles at 1/8- and 1/16- inch sizes that you may add to your shoes as needed to achieve the perfect fit.

• KURU 

KURU’s wide toe boxes and options for wide widths are perfect for those with bunions, hammer toe, and sensitive feet. Mostly true to size, KURU has sizing indicators on its website if any particular style is best fit a half size up or down.

While KURU shoes take some time to break in, their ULTIMATE INSOLES mold to the feet over time, so the longer you wear them, the more comfortable they will fit and feel. 

• Hoka

When comparing fit, all 4 brands run true to size. While Hoka offers an adaptive fit for many runners, the fit might not be suitable for all foot shapes and sizes. 

Some individuals find that Hoka shoes don't provide the snug fit they desire.

• On Cloud

 Many On Cloud models feature an adaptive fit that contours to the shape of the foot, providing a comfortable and secure feel.

While the length runs true to size, I would say some are a narrow fit and some have a little more room in the toebox.

3.Durability

• Orthofeet 

Orthofeet shoes use the high-quality polyurethane (PU) foam as part of their OrthoCushion™ insole system. This foam lasts longer and wicks moisture better than typical foams used in many of today’s athletic shoes. 

Orthofeet’s footwear also features extra foam padding at the heel and a protective interior, so that your feet can stay comfortable and protected long term while the shoes maintain durability.

• KURU 

• Hoka

HOKA’s shoes also consist of high-quality materials that are built to last. Reviewers mention that HOKA running shoes have an average lifespan of 400 to 500 miles before replacement is necessary.

• On Cloud

On recommends swapping out for new shoes every 310 to 465 miles, a bit more specific than most brands.

4.Comfort & Support

• Orthofeet 

Every pair of Orthofeet shoes feature their patented OrthoCushion™ system that prioritizes ultimate cushion and comfort. A built-in contoured orthotic insole brings extra cushion to the heel and arch.

They’ve taken it a step further with an ergonomic sole mild rocker design for an easier, more comfortable stride. 

• KURU 

KURU makes shoes that allow those with plantar fasciitis and other foot problems to move comfortably. Their KURUSOLE technology cups your heel, molds to your foot and remains supportive in all the right places to improve your foot’s biomechanics and alignment for reduced joint stress. 

KURU’s shoes are the ideal blend of heel, ankle and arch support to create the healthiest stride.

• Hoka

HOKA shoes have three priorities: propulsion, support and stability. HOKA is a running brand, so it only makes sense that they make a shoe that propels your stride forward. Their meta-rocker is a sole technology that keeps your feet from landing flat and rolls the foot forward like a wheel.

As for HOKA’s support, their shoes have a plush, balanced and responsive midsole for effective shock absorption. 

• On Cloud

On uses CloudTec technology which is entirely what makes their shoe look and feel different. They have little open pockets on the bottom of the shoe that compress with each step to absorb impact and in their words feel like a cloud.

I would say they are cushioned, but not plush.

Conclusion:Which Orthopedic Shoe is Best for You??

Ultimately, the choice between Orthofeet, KURU, Hoka and On Cloud Orthotic Shoes depends on your shoe preferences, physical activities, and biomechanics. As orthopedic footwear brands, all are going to be a head above in terms of arch support and cushioning.

But which brand might be best for you? At the end of the day it will come down to which brand can best meet your specific needs.

• Orthofeet 

Orthofeet focuses on creating shoes with a therapeutic and functional design to address specific foot conditions and provide pain relief. The shoes often feature extra-depth design, adjustable features, and soft interior linings to accommodate various foot issues.

Orthofeet features plenty of support and cushion and pain relief for many of its customers.

If you’re needing shoes that feature comfort and support for sensitive feet or you’d like specific features—such as no-tie laces, extra spacers for better fit, or hands-free options—Orthofeet may be best for you.

• KURU 

KURU is known for day-to-day comfort that fights foot pain while offering various stylish options. When looking for an everyday shoe, you can’t go wrong with KURU.

• Hoka

Hoka has a wide selection of shoes in its lineup that are really amenable to most foot types and most activity types.

 Hoka's emphasis on cushioning and stability makes its shoes a go-to choice for those looking to reduce the impact of running on their joints.

Hoka shoes cater to runners who prioritize maximal cushioning and comfort. These shoes are popular among long-distance runners, ultramarathoners, casual runners, and walkers seeking relief from joint pain or injuries. 

On Cloud shoes are designed to appeal to a wide variety of people, particularly those who value lightweight design, responsive cushioning, and versatility in their footwear. 

Beginners in the running world often find On Cloud shoes to be a comfortable and approachable option. The lightweight and cushioned design can help ease the impact on joints as new runners adapt to the activity. 

The brand says its shoes are great for casual runners who want a comfortable and lightweight option, and also a top choice for short and mid-distance runners who benefit from responsive cushioning for quick bursts of speed and agility. 

Tips:Podiatrists recommend considering factors such as foot shape, cushioning preferences, terrain, distance, fit, and individual comfort when deciding which brand and model best align with your running needs. 

Read More:

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