Mary Jane Shoes for Kids with High Insteps – Extra Deep, Stylish, and Durable!
Is your daughter’s high instep making it impossible to find a pair of Mary Jane shoes that actually fit? If every pair you try feels too narrow and leaves painful red marks or indentations on the top of your daughter’s feet, you’re in the right place! As a shoe fitter, I understand how frustrating this can be. But don’t worry—I’m here to help! In this guide, I’ll share the best Mary Jane shoes for kids with high insteps, whether you need them for a special dressy occasion, school, or a more casual day out.
Do You Know Where the Instep of the Foot Is Located?
Children with high insteps usually have a hard time finding shoes that fit for the simple fact that there is extra foot volume that needs to be fitted inside of the shoes. Below you can find an example of where the instep of the foot is located.
The Biggest Issue for Kids with High Insteps
The biggest issue that children with high insteps have when trying to fit in a pair of Mary Jane shoes is that the strap usually rubs against the top part of their feet (instep). Let me show you an image for better visualization purposes:
Key Features of Mary Jane Shoes for Kids with High Insteps
1. Extra Depth: This allows more room for the foot to sit comfortably without feeling squeezed. Mary Jane shoes that provide extra depth allow your child’s feet to fit deeply inside the shoes and prevents the top part of their feet from rubbing against the top part of the shoes.
2. Extra Long Adjustable Straps: Mary Jane shoes typically feature a single strap across the top. For high insteps, look for designs with adjustable straps. Velcro or buckle straps can be loosened to provide a more customized fit.
3. Soft, Flexible Materials: The material of the shoe plays a significant role in overall comfort. Soft, flexible materials can conform to the shape of the foot, reducing pressure points and allowing for natural movement. Leather or high-quality synthetic materials are often recommended.
How to Retrieve Your Daughter’s Exact Foot Length and Shape
Before purchasing a pair of Mary Jane shoes, it’s crucial to know your child’s exact shoe size. I created a virtual shoe fitting service that will help you retrieve your child’s shoe size from home. In that resource, you will find out whether your child has narrow, medium, wide, or extra wide feet.
Mary Jane shoes are a popular choice for children due to their classic design and versatility. They typically feature a rounded toe, a low heel, and a single strap across the instep, making them both stylish and practical. Disclosure: Some links in this post may be affiliate links and we may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) when you click our links and make purchases.
Best Mary Jane Shoes for High Insteps – Stylish and Extra Deep
These are the deepest Mary Jane shoes I’ve ever fitted, designed specifically to provide the extra room your child’s feet need for comfort and support. Many of these styles come in various widths, including wide (W), so be sure to check the description below each image to confirm that the shoe will fit your child’s foot width perfectly.
1. Shoe style Holly Mary Jane by Stride Rite
These Mary Jane shoes by Stride Rite are a stylish option, with their roomy toe box and supportive design, it’s an ideal choice for girls needing a bit more depth in their shoes.
Key Features
- Order the shoe style SR Holly by Stride Rite on Zappos or Amazon
- Awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)
- Padded tongue and collar for added comfort
- Supreme comfort care of Ortholite memory foam footbeds
- I suggest that you get this Mary Jane shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
2. Mary Jane by FunkyMonkey
These wide fit Mary Jane shoes provide extra depth and come in a range of colors and patterns. The cushioned insole offers support, while the flexible, durable sole allows for natural movement.
Key Features
- Order the shoe style by FunkyMonkey on Amazon
- Velcro buckle secures the perfect fit every time
- Lightly padded leather insoles
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
3. Claire by Stride Rite
The Claire by Stride Rite is a stylish and supportive Mary Jane designed to fit children with high insteps.
Key Features
- Order the shoe style Claire by Stride Rite on Amazon
- Crafted from a premium leather upper
- Padded collar
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
4. Holly by Stride Rite
The Holly Mary Jane provides extra depth and it features a durable rubber sole and a breathable leather upper. The adjustable strap allows for a customized fit, accommodating various foot shapes and sizes.
Key Features
- Order the shoe style SR Holly by Stride Rite on Amazon
- Extra long Velcro straps
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
5. Susie by See Kai Run
These Mary Jane shoes are designed with extra depth, wide toe boxes, and flexible outsoles, allowing natural movement. The soft leather material is gentle on the skin, reducing the risk of irritation.
Key Features
- Order the shoe style by See Kai Run on Amazon or Zappos
- 100% leather
- Padded collar for comfort
- Patent leather uppers with scalloped topline edging
- I suggest that you get this Mary Jane shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
6. Nell by Stride Rite
These Mary Jane shoes by Stride Rite feature an extra depth design to accommodate children with high insteps.
Key Features
- Order the shoe style Nell by Stride Rite on Zappos or Amazon
- Velcro closure
- Padded collar for comfort
- Removable contoured footbed
- I suggest that you get this Mary Jane shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
7. Ainsley by Stride Rite
This Mary Jane is versatile and comfortable. It features a flexible, adjustable strap and a roomy toe box, that ensure a snug yet non-restrictive fit, providing ample space for higher insteps.
Key Features
- Order the Mary Jane shoe Ainsley by Stride Rite on Zappos or Amazon
- Ortholite memory foam for enhanced comfort
- Adjustable hook and loop strap
- I suggest that you get this shoe half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
8. Bonnett by Nina
These deep Mary Jane shoes are crafted with high-quality materials and are Ideal for both casual and dressy occasions.
Key Features
- Order the shoe style Bonnett by Nina on Zappos or Amazon
- 100% leather
- Padded collar
- Cushioned soles
- I suggest that you get this shoe half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
9. Ella Mary Jane
These deep red Mary Janes are ideal for kids with high insteps. They feature a gentle, adjustable strap and a soft, supportive upper, it provides a secure fit without pinching.
Key Features
- Order the shoe style Ella Mary Jane by Keds on Amazon or Zappos
- 100% leather
- Durable rubber outsole
- Easy on-and-off with an oversized opening hook and loop closure
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
10. Allie by Footmates
These wide width Mary Janes feature a leather upper that provides a classic look, while the cushioned footbed ensures all-day comfort. The extra depth design makes it ideal for children with high insteps.
Key Features
- Order the shoe style Allie Mary Jane by Footmates on Amazon or Zappos
- Easy on-and-off with an oversized opening hook and loop closure
- Rounded, slip-resistant soles encourage natural motion and help improve balance
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
Reach Out for Personalized Recommendations
Feel free to reach out to me via email or drop a comment below for personalized shoe recommendations tailored to your child’s unique foot shape needs. I’m here to guide you every step of the way, helping you find the perfect pair that supports your child’s comfort and development.
How to Check If the Mary Jane Shoes Fit Correctly
Once the Mary Jane shoes arrive, have your daughter try them on and walk around the house to get a feel for how they fit. While she’s wearing the shoes, gently slide your finger around the widest part of the shoe (as shown below). Make sure there’s enough room and no excessive pressure on her instep. If you can’t slide your finger through, it could mean the shoes are too narrow, and it might be time to try a different size or style.
Should Your Child Wear Socks with Her Mary Jane Shoes?
Children can wear Mary Jane shoes with a pair of socks, tights, or nothing. However, I suggest that your daughter wears socks with her Mary Jane shoes as this will increase comfort and prevent your daughter’s heels from rubbing against the back of the shoes.
When it comes to socks, choose ones that provide a bit of stretch and are not too tight across the instep. This can help prevent discomfort and ensure a better fit. Socks that are too tight can negate the benefits of well-fitted shoes, so opt for materials that offer both comfort and breathability.
Everyday Sneakers for Kids with High Insteps
Mary Janes are perfect for dressier occasions, but when it comes to play and everyday wear, nothing beats the comfort and support of a great pair of sneakers. If your child has a high instep, you’ll be happy to know there are sneakers designed with extra depth and oversized openings—making them the ideal choice for all-day comfort. Check out my list of these fantastic sneakers!
I hope you found this information helpful and please do not hesitate to ask your questions in the comments section below if you are having issues finding a different pair of shoes to accommodate the shape of your child’s high instep.
What is the name brand of maryjanes I need to look for for my toddlers high in step? Size 8
Hello Renea,
It’s hard to recommend specific shoe brands as there are specific models among each shoe brand that work a lot better than others. However, if you need shoe brands recommendations these are the ones I recommend:
Stride Rite
Pediped
See Kai Run
Tsukihoshi