There are a wide variety of material options when it comes to creating a foot orthotic. Shell materials range from flexible to rigid, as do top covers and mid-layers. Different pathologies require different material characteristics, patients have various sensitivities and of course, personal preferences. In many cases, a number of different materials can all work effectively for the same prescription. With all of the customizable options, it can be confusing, time consuming, and even an annoyance to pick and choose what will work best for each individual patient.

To help mitigate this, we’ve put together a reference list for the materials we use.