Powerstep ArchWear Orthotic Sandals Men - A Comprehensive Review
If you’re looking for a sandal that provides both comfort and necessary support during the hotter months, then the Powerstep ArchWear Orthotic Sandals may be exactly what you need. Designed specifically for men, these orthopedic flip flops are tailored to alleviate foot pain associated with conditions like plantar fasciitis and flat feet.
The standout feature of these sandals is their contoured footbed, which includes a built-in arch and heel cup. This provides essential support and stability, while the cushioned midsole effectively absorbs shock and impact, making each step less strenuous. With comfortable straps that are designed to eliminate digging into the skin, wearing these sandals feels easy on your feet.
Features
- Comfort Meets Support: Soft lining and nylon webbing prevent discomfort.
- Maximum Arch Support: Deep heel cradle offers stability.
- Get More Steps and Less Fatigue: Cushioned midsole helps reduce fatigue.
- Lightweight and Non-Slip: Designed for better traction on slippery surfaces.
- Stay Ahead of Over-Pronation: Balances comfort and support for alignment.
Pros
- Excellent arch and heel support
- Lightweight design enhances comfort
- Cushioned midsole minimizes fatigue
- Non-slip outsole for safety
- Stylish appearance suitable for casual wear
Cons
- May require a break-in period
- Available only in whole sizes
- Limited color options
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | Powerstep ArchWear Sandals | Similar Sandal A | Similar Sandal B |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arch Support | Yes | Yes | No |
| Cushioned Midsole | Yes | No | Yes |
| Non-Slip Outsole | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | Lightweight | Heavy | Average |
| Break-In Period | Yes | No | Yes |
Detailed Review
The Powerstep ArchWear Orthotic Sandals are exceptionally well-crafted sandals that provide not just style but also functionality. The contoured footbed is a game-changer, especially for those suffering from foot conditions that require additional support. It cradles the heel nicely, distributing weight evenly while reducing pressure points, particularly beneficial for users with plantar fasciitis.
Comfort-wise, the plush lining and soft straps offer a snug fit without causing irritation, making them perfect for prolonged use. One notable aspect is the lightweight design, allowing for a more natural foot movement compared to bulkier alternatives. The non-slip tread works effectively on wet surfaces, which adds an element of safety when you're out and about.
However, potential buyers should be aware of the break-in period that might be necessary to adjust to the supportive structure. Although available only in whole sizes, going up a size if you're between may also enhance overall comfort.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 9/10 | Soft materials with excellent cushioning. |
| Support | 8/10 | Deep heel cradle provides good arch support. |
| Durability | 8/10 | Made with high-quality synthetic materials. |
| Style | 7/10 | Casual look, limited colors available. |
| Value for Money | 9/10 | Great combination of comfort and support for the price. |
User Reviews
I was having serious foot pain which the doc diagnosed as plantar fasciitis and he recommended PowerStep inserts for my shoes. While shopping for those, I saw they have flip flops too. That's pretty much all I wear during warm weather, so I gave them a try. That was in 2020. Now, three years later, they're still going strong. I love these things. Very comfortable with nice arch support and NO MORE FOOT PAIN! I just ordered a second pair today as backup since the old ones are getting a little worn and dirty looking but are still perfectly wearable. I'm a loyal fan of these now and will continue to wear them as my summer footwear. Yes, they are expensive for a rubber flip flop, but they have been worth the price for the relief of foot pain.I typically wear 11 1/2 or 12 in regular shoes. I went with the 12 for these sandals and they are a perfect fit.
Correct sizing guidance. My feet are 10.5 size and I wasn't sure whether to order the tens or elevens, so I ordered both, each through prime wardrobe. The tens were correct size if the sandals were flat, but the arch support felt a bit too far back towards my heel and was somewhat uncomfortable. The 11s were he tad bigger and looser, but the arch support seemed to fit just right and because it was looser my foot kind of self-adjusted to the arch support. So if you're a definite half size, I would lean towards the next size up. Otherwise, the sandals are of fantastic build quality, comfortable, and do a fantastic job of controlling my plantar fasciitis. Their shoe inserts are equally good and those should be ordered to correct size.
I’ve left reviews under most of these other brands too. Long time Superfeet Outdoor user but they discontinued the sandal lineup. I tried Vionic, Spenco, OluKai, and these.- Vionic were stupidly high on the arch and had excessively wide straps.- Spenco had a nice medium arch but were very soft and squishy, and have no rubber tread so would wear quickly on concrete. Maybe a nice house sandal?- I wanted so badly to like OluKai, but the arch wasn’t that great, the tread a bit knobby and clunky, and finally - the raised toe box had me standing there holding my big toe up all the time. Sounds silly but it was immediately noticeable. Also, they have no heel cup for stability when landing and just taper off in the back.The Powersteps are probably the least fashionable (in men’s), but they have a great heel cup, and medium-high arch that’s supportive but not painful, and a comfortable but snug strap. They also have a good mix of support vs. cushion and a bit of a raised heel too.Fair criticism is that they run a little small and a little narrow. I’m a 10 or 10.5 depending on the shoe and an 11 in these was perfect. The 10 would’ve been far too small. I have average feet and the width is right about at the limit. If you have wide feet at all you’d need something wider.
Living in Florida we wear flip flops a lot. I've had other orthotic flip flops before and felt well supported in them. These took it to a whole new level. The strap across the foot is a little snug at first. It definitely took some breaking in to get it comfortable, but the support and lift from the sole is on another level. These actually have a spring-back to them. I recently recommended them to my brother who also has flat feet. I hope they'll last a while as they aren't cheap, but totally worth the cost to value ratio.
These flip flops are comfortable and give me great arch support.
I have been wearing these flops for 5 years now. on my 4th pair. Live on the beach so flip flops are my daily wear. These have a really nice arch support which prevents allot of problems. After having Planters facetious, its worth the extra money to find something to fit high arch. These are ideal, however order a size larger than you wear in a shoe. if you order the same as show size your foot does not fit well into the flip flop and your toes are dangerously close to over hanging
I've had these sandals about a year. I've worn them pretty regularly since then when the weather permits. I also wear them around the house a lot. They are still in very good condition and should last me several more years. The one thing I don't like about them is the tread. They have excellent grip but the treads pick up all sorts of bits and pieces and they are hard to clean out. That said, I just spent the last two days on my feet at a convention and my arches are still doing great.
The shoe felt comfortable, but for my normal size 12 it was too narrow. I tried to size up to 13 but still too narrow.