Why PaperKrane Shoes Work for So Many Different People

Here's the thing: we didn't set out to make "adaptive footwear" or "specialised footwear". We just designed shoes the way they should be designed - for actual human feet. And it turns out that when you do that, they naturally work well for people with all kinds of different needs.

Our wide, foot-shaped, flexible, sensory-friendly shoes aren't marketed as disability friendly or specialised footwear. They're just really good shoes. But that simple approach to thoughtful design has made them genuinely helpful for many people who've struggled to find comfortable footwear.

What Makes PaperKranes Shoes Different?

Wide Fit for Real Feet

Most shoes are too narrow for actual feet. Our wide fit gives your feet proper room, whether you need space for swelling, bunions, hammertoes, orthotics, or you just have naturally wider feet. No more squeezing into shoes that pinch.

Shaped Like Feet Actually Are

Our shoes follow the natural shape of human feet instead of forcing your toes into a narrow point. This means your toes can spread naturally, you get better balance and stability, and there's less pressure that can lead to toe problems over time.

Flexible Materials That Move With You

Rigid shoes fight against natural movement. Our flexible materials bend and move as you do, which many people find helpful whether they have mobility considerations, arthritis, or just prefer shoes that feel natural.

Sensory-Friendly Fabrics

We've chosen soft, comfortable materials that feel good against skin. Minimal seams mean fewer bumps and ridges, and breathable fabrics help keep feet comfortable. People with autism, sensory processing differences, or sensitive skin often find these features make a real difference.

Lightweight Construction

Heavy shoes are tiring. Our lightweight design means less effort with each step, reduced strain on joints and muscles, and better ground feel - something many people appreciate regardless of their specific needs.

Who Finds These Shoes Helpful?

While PaperKrane kicks aren't designed specifically for any condition, we hear from many different people about how well they work for a range of reasons and conditions:

People Managing Health Conditions

• Those with diabetes appreciate minimal pressure points and good circulation
• People with arthritis find the flexibility works well with swollen or tender joints
• Those experiencing neuropathy benefit from the lightweight design and ground feel
• Anyone dealing with swelling appreciates having room that adjusts throughout the day

Those With Mobility Considerations

• The slip-on design, elastic laces, Velcro closures helps when hand dexterity is limited
• Wide, stable base provides confidence for those with balance considerations
• Lightweight construction means less work with every step
• Flexible soles adapt to different walking patterns

Sensory-Conscious Individuals

• Neurodivergent people often find the comfortable materials work well for sensory needs
• Soft, smooth surfaces suit those with sensitive skin
• People managing chronic pain appreciate one less source of daily discomfort

What This Means for You

So what does all this actually add up to in your daily life? Here's how these design choices translate into real, practical benefits:

• All-Day Comfort: The combination of room, flexibility, and lightweight design helps feet stay comfortable throughout the day.
• Works With Your Supports: There's room for orthotics, AFOs, compression socks, special insoles, or whatever else you use.
• Easy to Put On: The flexible, roomy design makes getting shoes on and off simpler, whether you're doing it yourself or someone's helping.
• No Compromise on Style: Our range of styles means you don't have to choose between shoes that look good and shoes that feel comfortable.

Simply put: these signature PK features work together to make footwear that fits into your life, rather than making you work around your shoes.

NDIS Funding May Be Available

For NDIS participants, PaperKrane shoes may be funded under your plan as assistive technology or consumable supports, particularly when recommended by a healthcare professional for your specific needs.

Comfortable, supportive footwear can help with NDIS goals including:

• Improved mobility and community participation
• Better pain management
• Enhanced safety through improved balance and stability
• Greater independence in daily activities

We've streamlined the NDIS process to make it as straightforward as possible. Check out our NDIS orders page for full details →

Worth Trying?

If you've been struggling to find comfortable footwear, or if any of the features above sound like they'd work for your needs, we'd encourage you to give them a try. They're just good shoes - but for many people, that makes all the difference.