Table 3. Important features of retail footwear for women with RA—Items reaching agreement.

Content Item Theme	Item
Footwear Characteristics	Shoes should be appropriately sized, with adequate length and width
	Shoes should be deep enough to accommodate an orthoses/insert
	Shoes should not have seams over pressure areas or deformities
	Shoes should avoid pressure points in the foot
	Shoe shape should be relevant to foot shape
	Shoes should have a sturdy rearfoot
	Shoes should have a heel height of no greater than 3 cm (1.5 inches)
	Shoes should have a cushioned heel
	Shoes should have a broad heel base
	Shoes should contain a heel counter which conforms to the geometry of the calcaneus
	Shoes should contain adequate midfoot support
	Shoes should have a wide toe box
	Shoes should have a deep toe box
	Shoes should contain forefoot to rearfoot cushioning
	Shoes should be able to accommodate the toes
	Shoes should have longitudinal arch support
	Shoes should contain metatarsal support
	Shoes should have an outsole which is textured and non-slip
	Shoes should have a soft accommodative upper
	Shoes should have an upper which is conformable
	Shoes should contain an insole which is removable
	Shoes should be well secured
	Shoes should be easy to put on and take off
	Shoes should have fastenings which are adjustable
Acceptability	Shoes should provide adequate shock absorption
	Shoes should be made of breathable material
	Shoes should be suitable for the weather conditions (warm in winter, cool in summer)
	Shoes should be lightweight
	Shoes should be deemed comfortable by the owner
	Shoes should be affordable
	There should be a range of choice in styles available
	There should be a range of choice in colours available
Psychosocial Aspects	Shoes should be aesthetically pleasing
	Shoes should be activity appropriate
	Shoes should be deemed satisfactory by the owner
	Shoes should look feminine
	Shoes should not cause self-consciousness
	Shoes should be appropriate for the social occasion