Dear Rabbi Simon
Can you please advise on suitable footwear options for Yom Kippur? I have been suffering from knee pain (too much running?) and so I would like a halakhic solution which offers support for my heel. What about an ankle brace? I know I will be on my feet much of the day on Yom Kippur.
Many thanks,
Ron
Dear Ron,
Thank you for your question. Although the classic approach is to go without shoes of any kind, the halakhah allows wearing any shoes which are not leather (and do not have leather components). Many people nowadays rely on this approach. Hence the use of Crocs and many types of trainers (gym shoes, or sneakers, as we say in America). So you can choose any footwear or accessory which offers you support, etc (while you are on your feet the whole day), as long as it is not made of leather. An ankle brace would probably also be allowed. If it is made of leather, the matter would require closer analysis, according to the particulars of the case.
Finally, many of the times when it is customary to stand during the course of the Yom Kippur prayers, one is not actually required to do so. The primary times when one should certainly stand (if possible) are during the Amidah (Silent Prayer) and the Viduy (confession).
I hope this is helpful.
Best wishes for the New Year
Rabbi Rashi Simon