Shoe modifications
More than leg length: wedges and flares.
A lift corrects a difference in leg length. Wedges and flares work differently: they change how your foot meets the ground. They are usually recommended by a doctor, podiatrist or physical therapist, so talk to yours before ordering.
Leg length lift
Raises the shoe to even out a difference in leg length. Built into the sole, so the shoe keeps its original look.
Lateral wedge
A lateral wedge makes the outer edge of the shoe thicker, so body weight shifts toward the inner part of the foot.
Often recommended for
- Medial knee osteoarthritis
- Some clinicians use it to reduce load on the inner side of the knee.
- Foot supination (underpronation)
- Helps steady the heel and improve alignment.
- Ankle instability and outer-foot pain
- May help with repeated ankle sprains, peroneal tendon strain and sinus tarsi syndrome.
- Alignment and wear
- Bow-leggedness (genu varum) and shoes that wear down unevenly on the outer edge.
A wedge does not correct a difference in leg length. That is what a lift is for.
Lateral flare
A lateral flare widens the outer edge of the midsole and outsole so it extends past the upper. It is a permanent, external modification that gives the outside of your foot a broader base.
Often recommended for
- Chronic ankle instability
- Acts like an outrigger: the wider edge meets the ground sooner and helps resist the foot rolling outward.
- Severe supination and cavovarus foot posture
- Adds material under the outer edge, where pressure is highest.
- Neuropathy and balance concerns
- More ground contact can help with stability.
- Peroneal tendon strain
- A sturdier outer edge can reduce repeated strain on the outside of the ankle.
Lift vs wedge vs flare
| Lift | Lateral wedge | Lateral flare | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What it changes | Shoe height | The angle of the foot | The width of the base |
| How it feels | Both feet end up level | Weight shifts toward the inner foot | The foot stays level; the outside is steadier |
| Typical reason | Leg length difference | Alignment and load | Stability and balance |
A wedge tilts the foot by being thicker on one side. A flare keeps the foot level and widens the footprint.
Examples from our workshop
Not sure which one you need?
Tell us what you need and we’ll tell you whether your shoes can take it. Wedge and flare work is quoted case by case.
Shoe lifts are not a substitute for medical advice. Talk to your doctor or physical therapist about the right correction for you.