Shoe Lifts

How to pick a good shoe

Español PDF

Choose shoes that are simple in construction. Bring this sheet with you when you when you visit the shoe store.

Shoes that work well with lifts

Flat-bottomed shoes (like skateboard shoes)
Shoes with a flat contact area (the whole bottom surface of the shoe touches the ground)
Crepe (foam) bottoms with rubber soling
Shoes that have white or black soles

Shoes that do not work well with lifts

Slip-on shoes, loafers or sandals
Thin shoes (shoes must have a midsole)
Shoes with separate heels
Shoes with air-cushioning or gel-cushioning soles
Shoes with plastic pieces on the bottoms of the soles
Shoes with soles that light up

Sometimes shoe soles will be cut off and a foam “lift” will be placed between the upper portion of the shoe and the sole. Other times, the lift will be added to the bottom of the shoe and a new sole will be attached.

To Learn More

Free Interpreter Services

In the hospital, ask your nurse.
From outside the hospital, call the toll-free Family Interpreting Line, 1-866-583-1527. Tell the interpreter the name or extension you need.

Seattle Children’s offers free interpreter services for patients, family members and legal representatives who are deaf or hard of hearing or speak a language other than English. Seattle Children’s will make this information available in alternate formats upon request. Call the Family Resource Center at 206-987-2201. This handout has been reviewed by clinical staff at Seattle Children’s. However, your needs are unique. Before you act or rely upon this information, please talk with your healthcare provider.

03/01/2024

PE584

Shoe Lifts

Shoes that work well with lifts

Shoes that do not work well with lifts

Download Instructions