Custom Made Shoes for Problem Feet

Dealing with foot conditions doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style. Contrary to popular belief, you can enjoy elegant, formal shoes that cater to your specific needs, without sacrificing comfort or health.
As we age, our feet go through natural changes that can make finding suitable footwear more challenging. At Poyter, we offer custom-made, orthopaedic shoes that combine style with tailored comfort. Our shoes are designed to meet complex foot requirements, crafted by expert artisans right here in the UK.
Common Foot Conditions That Impact Shoe Fit
Several medical conditions can complicate footwear choices. These include:
- Pronation issues
- Diabetes
- Calluses and bunions
- Flat feet or high arches
- Toe deformities (e.g., hammertoe, claw toe)
Each of these conditions presents unique challenges, requiring specialised footwear features such as wide toe boxes, supportive insoles, or seamless linings.
Toe Deformities: Hammertoe & Claw Toe
The most common toe deformities, hammertoe and claw toe, cause abnormal bending of the toes, leading to pain and mobility issues. Hammertoe bends at the joint near the nail, while claw toe curls downward at the tip.
These conditions often require:
- Deeper toe boxes
- Custom orthotic inserts
- Additional forefoot padding
Our customised shoes offer enhanced cushioning, which helps improve gait and reduces the pressure exerted on the toes during walking.
Understanding Calluses vs. Bunions
Calluses form when the skin thickens and hardens due to repeated friction or pressure. They can lead to painful tears, bleeding, and restricted mobility. These require footwear with soft, cushioned interiors to reduce impact.
Bunions, on the other hand, develop at the base of the big toe and may cause minimal discomfort, until tight shoes start rubbing against them. Shoes that are too narrow worsen the condition, often leading to inflammation and bacterial build-up.
Our custom shoes provide:
- Strategic cushioning to reduce friction
- Extra width options
- Seamless interiors to prevent skin irritation
With the right fit, your feet can breathe, and pain from pressure points becomes a thing of the past.
Why Diabetics Must Choose Shoes Carefully
Diabetic foot care is critical. Due to reduced circulation and nerve sensitivity, even minor injuries can turn into serious infections.
Common concerns include:
- Ingrown toenails
- Lesions and ulcers
- Fungal infections
- Toe deformities and poor circulation
Diabetics are advised never to cut their own toenails and must prioritise well-fitted, seamless shoes. Shoes that are too tight may cause cuts, swelling, or blisters, while loose ones cause slipping and pressure injuries.
Poyter offers diabetic-friendly formal shoes with:
- Moisture-wicking linings
- Pressure-free seams
- Wide and extra-wide fits
- Custom orthotic integration
Correcting Pronation With Supportive Design
Overpronation flattens your foot arch and places excessive strain on tendons and ligaments. Left uncorrected, it can lead to chronic discomfort and misalignment.
Our shoes for pronation correction feature:
- Structured heel counters
- Sturdy arch support
- Wide soles for improved stability
While your podiatrist may recommend orthotics, our shoes are crafted to integrate them seamlessly, giving you both clinical function and timeless style.
Flat Feet vs. High Arches: Two Different Challenges
Flat feet create constant strain on the tendons, while high arches exert excessive pressure on the heels and forefoot. Both require shoes that address structural needs, not just aesthetics.
- For flat feet: Shoes need arch support and stability to avoid overpronation.
- For high arches: Shoes require cushioning and shock absorption to distribute pressure evenly.
Generic shoes often worsen these conditions. That’s why we create footwear based on your foot’s anatomy.
How Poyter Supports Every Step You Take
At Poyter, we specialise in creating bespoke formal shoes for people with foot conditions. Whether you suffer from bunions, diabetes, flat feet, or toe deformities, we will design footwear that supports your health and suits your style.
What makes us different:
- Handmade, British-crafted shoes
- Built-in orthopaedic support
- Dozens of customisation options
- Tailored widths, materials, and fit
Our artisan shoemakers use your requirements to build shoes that are elegant enough for formal wear and comfortable enough to wear all day.
A Healthier, Classier Future for Your Feet
Stop choosing between health and style. You deserve both.
Let Poyter show you how a pair of customised formal shoes can:
- Improve your mobility
- Prevent foot complications
- Enhance your confidence
- Match your professional or social attire
Whether you’re looking for diabetic dress shoes, stylish shoes for bunions, or arch-supporting brogues, we’ve got you covered.
Poyter: Where foot care meets fine craftsmanship.