Medica Sydney 10/48 – Supportive Closed-Toe Orthopaedic Sandals

The Medica Sydney 10/48 is a specialised orthopaedic closed-toe sandal providing structured support for the lower leg, ankle, and foot. Part of the AFO Alternative collection, this model is designed for children who need enhanced lower-leg and ankle stability — offering more structure than ankle-height orthopaedic footwear, yet greater comfort and flexibility than a full ankle-foot orthosis (AFO).

Constructed from high-quality real nubuck and waxed leather, the Sydney 10/48 combines durability with supportive comfort. Its closed-toe design protects the toes while maintaining the breathability of a sandal. An extended-height stiffener provides reliable ankle and lower-calf control, and the Thomas Heel supports rearfoot positioning. Four adjustable Velcro straps make fitting quick and secure for parents, therapists, and children alike.

Support Features

• Extended Lower-Leg Support: Reinforced upper providing firm stability through the ankle and lower leg.

• High Heel Counter: Wrap-around heel structure promoting rearfoot alignment and balance.

• Thomas Heel: Enhances heel positioning and supports stable gait mechanics.

• Midrange Sole Flexibility: Offers balanced support with controlled natural movement.

• Lightweight Construction: Reduces fatigue for daily comfort.

• Closed-Toe Protection: Provides toe coverage while maintaining sandal breathability.

• Premium Leather Build: Real nubuck and waxed leather upper with soft leather lining for comfort and durability.

• Easy Fastening: Four Velcro straps allow convenient, adjustable fitting.

• Custom Innersole Options: Fixed leather innersole available flat (for orthotics) or with built-in medial arch support.

Ideal For Children With

• Mildly increased muscle tone requiring firm ankle and lower-leg stability for controlled movement

• Moderate low muscle tone or hypermobility where additional structure supports balance and alignment

• Foot and ankle alignment challenges benefiting from consistent lower-limb guidance

• Motor coordination or balance difficulties requiring stable, supportive footwear

• Developing independence in walking, therapy, or daily activities

• Need for structured support offering more stability than ankle-height footwear but less rigidity than a full AFO

Clinical Insight

The Medica Sydney 10/48 provides effective lower-limb support in a closed-toe design, combining structure and comfort for daily wear. Its extended stiffener and Thomas Heel help manage ankle and rearfoot alignment, while the midrange-flex sole supports controlled, natural motion. This model is ideal for children who require dependable lower-leg stability for everyday mobility and therapy — now available in limited stock as the colour has been discontinued.

Fit Adjustment and Additional Pads

The Medica Sydney 10/48 comes with one pair of Velcro pads to help achieve a more secure and comfortable fit. These pads thread onto the Velcro straps, allowing the straps to sit more snugly across the foot and reduce excess space. For children with narrower feet or to fine-tune fit across multiple straps, additional Velcro Pad Pairs are available separately and can be purchased here (additional cost applies).