Finding shoes that are easy to put on can make a real difference to everyday routines. However, not every easy-access shoe solves the same problem.

Some shoes are designed to open around an AFO or orthotic, while others reduce the need to bend down or use your hands. The best choice depends on the wearer’s mobility, dexterity, footwear size and whether they use an AFO, SMO or another orthotic.

In this guide, we compare Billy Footwear, Skechers Slip-ins and Friendly Shoes to help you understand the differences.

Quick comparison

Brand	Opening	Best suited to	AFO friendly?
Billy Footwear	Wraparound zip allows the upper to open widely	AFOs, orthotics and people who find standard shoe openings difficult	Selected styles
Skechers Slip-ins	Hands-free step-in heel	People who find bending down or using their hands difficult	Not specifically designed for AFOs
Friendly Shoes	Wide side or rear zip, depending on the style	AFOs, swelling, limited dexterity and easier independent dressing	Selected styles

 

Always check the individual product description, as fit and features vary between styles.

 

Billy Footwear: wide access for AFOs and orthotics

 

Billy Footwear is known for its FlipTop Technology. A zip travels around the side and toe of the shoe, allowing the upper to open widely. *Billy is available in a variety of zipper options.

Instead of pushing the foot down through a conventional shoe opening, the wearer can place their foot or brace directly onto the footbed before closing the shoe around it. This can make dressing more manageable for children and adults who wear AFOs, struggle with laces or find narrow shoe openings difficult.

Selected Billy styles are specifically designed with AFOs in mind. The Classic D|R II range, for example, is available in different widths and includes two removable 3 mm insoles. Removing one or both insoles creates additional depth where needed.

Billy Footwear may be suitable if:

• The wearer uses an AFO, SMO or other orthotic
• A conventional shoe opening is too narrow
• Extra width or depth is needed
• Placing the foot directly into the shoe is easier
• You want a choice of casual, school and high-top styles

Not every Billy shoe offers the same width, depth or AFO compatibility, so it is important to check the details of your chosen style.

Skechers Slip-ins: hands-free everyday footwear

 

Skechers Slip-ins are designed to be put on without pulling the heel into place by hand. The wearer steps directly into the shoe, while the structured heel and Heel Pillow help guide and hold the foot securely.

This can be helpful for people who find it difficult to bend down, reach their feet or use their hands to adjust footwear. It may also make getting ready quicker for people who want a simple everyday trainer.

Unlike Billy Footwear and selected Friendly Shoes, Skechers Slip-ins do not open around the foot. They should not automatically be considered suitable for AFOs, particularly when a brace requires additional width, depth or a larger opening.

Some Skechers styles are available in a wide fit or have removable insoles, but this varies by product and does not necessarily make them AFO compatible.

Skechers Slip-ins may be suitable if:

• Bending down to put shoes on is difficult
• The wearer has limited hand dexterity
• A hands-free option would support greater independence
• The wearer does not require a shoe that opens around an AFO
• Lightweight cushioning is a priority

Friendly Shoes: discreet adaptive access

 

Friendly Shoes were created with accessibility, comfort and everyday style in mind.

Their Easy Shoe Access technology uses a discreet zip to create a wider opening. The position of the zip varies between styles, with front, side and rear-opening options available. This allows the wearer to open more of the shoe before placing the foot inside.

Selected Friendly Shoes are designed to accommodate AFOs, SMOs, custom orthotics and changes in foot volume. They can also be useful for people who experience swelling or have difficulty tying laces.

Friendly Shoes tend to look similar to conventional trainers, making them a good option for people who want adaptive features without an obviously medical-looking design.

Friendly Shoes may be suitable if:

• The wearer uses an AFO, SMO or custom orthotic
• A wider shoe opening is required
• Swelling or changes in foot volume need to be accommodated
• A lightweight adaptive trainer is preferred
• A discreet zip design is important

As with Billy Footwear, the amount of space and the position of the zip differ by style. Check each product before choosing.

What is the main difference?

 

The biggest difference is how each shoe opens.

Billy Footwear opens around the side and toe, creating extensive access to the inside of the shoe. Selected styles provide the width and adjustable depth needed for many AFOs.

Skechers Slip-ins do not open up. Instead, their structured heel allows the wearer to step into them without using their hands. They are primarily designed for hands-free convenience rather than orthotic access.

Friendly Shoes use a discreet adaptive zip to create a wider entry. Selected styles can accommodate AFOs and orthotics while maintaining the appearance of an everyday trainer.

Which option should you choose?

 

Billy Footwear may be the strongest starting point when maximum access and adjustable depth are needed for an AFO.

Friendly Shoes may suit someone who needs adaptive access but prefers a lightweight shoe with a more discreet zip.

Skechers Slip-ins may be more appropriate when the main difficulty is bending down, reaching the feet or pulling a shoe onto the heel, rather than accommodating a brace.

The correct fit will depend on the wearer and the type of orthotic being used. Measure both feet while the AFO or orthotic is being worn, and compare the measurements with the sizing information for the individual shoe. If you are unsure, ask your orthotist or contact our team before ordering.

 

Find easier footwear at Special.Shoes

At Special Shoes, we stock adaptive and easy-access footwear for children and adults. Explore our ranges from Billy Footwear, Skechers and Friendly Shoes to find an option suited to the wearer’s individual needs.

Shop all footwear at Special Shoes.