ALIRO - The Adaptive AFO Shoe

This shoe was built from the ground up for people who wear ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) due to conditions such as stroke recovery, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, neuropathy, or spinal cord injuries. It’s engineered to fit braces comfortably while helping users walk more naturally and confidently.

Most likely, yes. The Cadense AFO Shoe comes in three widths (Regular, Wide, and 2E) and features an extra-wide entry system. It accommodates most brace types, including carbon fiber, hinged, and molded AFOs. If your brace fits comfortably in a regular or wide-width sneaker, it should also work well in this shoe.

Unlike typical adaptive footwear, this shoe is purpose-built for AFO compatibility — not retrofitted. It combines an extra-wide, easy-on design with Variable Friction Technology, allowing users to glide smoothly when their foot drags and grip securely when stepping forward.

Physical therapists who observed the study participants noted visible improvements in foot drop and gait quality, and even recommended the shoes for rehabilitation sessions. The AFO Shoe helped users roll their foot forward more easily — enhancing both comfort and mobility during therapy.

For people with foot drop who wear an ankle-foot orthosis (AFO), the best shoes are designed specifically to accommodate the brace. This includes an extra-wide opening, adjustable closures, internal space for the AFO, and a sole that supports smooth forward motion. The ALIRO Adaptive AFO Shoe was engineered around these needs to make walking with an AFO more comfortable and natural.

Adaptive footwear supports individuals using an AFO by reducing friction during foot swing and improving stability during weight-bearing. ALIRO’s Variable Friction Technology allows the shoe to glide when the brace drags and grip when stepping down, helping users walk with greater control and confidence while wearing an AFO brace.

Yes. While many shoes attempt to accommodate braces, few are designed specifically for AFO use. The ALIRO Adaptive AFO Shoe was built from the ground up as a shoe for AFO braces, with an extra-wide entry, adjustable fit, and internal structure designed to work with ankle-foot orthoses rather than forcing the brace into a standard sneaker.

Adaptive shoes differ from regular footwear by prioritizing ease of entry, adjustability, and mobility support. For AFO users, this means less twisting, forcing, or pressure around the brace. ALIRO also integrates Variable Friction Technology, which helps manage foot drag and step transitions—features not found in standard athletic shoes.

In most cases, yes. AFO braces add volume around the foot and ankle, which is why shoes designed for AFO use need a wider opening, adjustable closures, and flexible fit. ALIRO’s large front flap and adjustable design help accommodate AFO braces without pressure points.

Absolutely. When an AFO fits comfortably inside a shoe and walking feels smoother and more predictable, users often feel more confident moving independently. Many ALIRO users report improved endurance and reduced fear of stumbling, especially during longer walks or daily activities.

ALIRO stands out by combining AFO-specific design with patented Variable Friction Technology. While many adaptive shoes focus on easy entry alone, ALIRO addresses the walking mechanics of foot drop and brace use, making it a functional solution rather than a cosmetic adaptation.