Adaptable Sandals for Kids Who Wear Orthotics – They Fit Regular Orthotics and AFOs/SMOs
Finding the right sandals for children who wear orthotics can be challenging, especially when it comes to seasonal footwear. The adaptable sandals I recommend are designed to provide a stable base of support while offering multiple adjustment points to accommodate orthotic devices comfortably. These sandals feature extra-long Velcro straps for a secure, customizable fit, ensuring your child gets the support they need without compromising on comfort. Based on my years of experience fitting children’s shoes, I’ve curated a list of the best adaptable sandals for kids who wear orthotics in 2025.
I’m Juan Valenzuela, a children’s shoe fitter with over a decade of experience. I’ve seen firsthand how the right adaptable sandals can transform a child’s daily life. One family shared how their child finally enjoyed summer camp pain-free, highlighting the impact of proper footwear for kids who wear orthotics.
What Are the Advantages of Adaptable Sandals? – 3 Key Features
I have noticed how adaptable sandals have the ability to enhance both mobility and comfort, and they make it really easy for children to get the sandals on and off.
1. Extra long straps that can be adjusted in various parts of the sandal make it easier to achieve a snug and supportive fit. This adjustability helps reduce the risk of blisters and pressure points, which are common problems for kids wearing orthotics. These adjustable straps also ensure the sandal and orthotic remain secure on the foot.
2. Supportive structures and deeper footbeds help improve mobility and stability by helping distribute weight evenly across the foot, reducing strain and discomfort. The deeper footbeds allow the orthotics to fit deeply inside the sandals.
3. Most adaptable sandals open fully so the sandals and the orthotics can be easily slid on and fit each unique foot. This means that your child won’t struggle to get the sandals on and off.
Popular Adaptable Sandal Brands for Kids
I typically avoid recommending specific brands, as families often assume all sandals from that brand will work well. However, since many parents request brand suggestions, here’s a helpful list:
Keen: Recently introduced an adaptable sandal that fits orthotics and allows kids to put them on and off independently.
See Kai Run: There are two or three sandals from this shoe company that have adjustable back straps for easy on and off.
Stride Rite: Provides sandals in wide and extra-wide widths to accommodate orthotics.
Memo: Specializes in orthopedic sandals designed for orthotics. While pricier, many parents find the investment worthwhile for superior support, comfort, and durability.
My Top Picks of Adaptable Sandals for Kids Who Wear Orthotics
The sandals I recommend have been personally fitted at my store and have worked for many children with orthotics. However, fit isn’t guaranteed, as some orthotics require more space than others. Check the descriptions below each sandal to see if they accommodate 3/4 or full-length orthotics, AFOs, or SMOs.
1. Betti and Pedro by Memo
These orthopedic sandals are the best summer shoes for orthotics as they are equipped with a robust support system, including a firm heel counter and arch support. These features work together to guide the foot towards a healthier walking pattern, making them an excellent choice for children with foot issues who need corrective footwear.
Key Features
- Order the sandal Betti and Pedro by Memo on Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet
- This is an orthopedic sandal
- Thermoplastic asymmetric stiff heel counter for proper foot protection and support
- Genuine leather lining
- I suggest that you get this sandal a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
2. Seaturtle by Kamik
These regular open-toe sandals for orthotics provide a cushioned footbed and three adjustable straps. Their lightweight and flexible design makes it ideal for children with foot conditions, while the durable outsole ensures long-lasting wear.
Key Features
- Order the sandal Seaturtle by Kamik on Amazon or Zappos
- Fits medium and wide feet (fits high insteps)
- Triple velcro straps for easy on and off
- Quick drying moisture wicking lining
- Vegan-friendly
- I suggest that you get this sandal a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
3. Hurricane by Teva
These open-toe kids’ sandals for orthotics offer a lightweight, water-friendly design with an adjustable fit. Its contoured footbed provides excellent support and the stable base of support helps distribute weight evenly.
Key Features
- Order the sandal Newport H2 by Keen on Zappos or Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet
- This internal support mechanism is anatomically engineered to provide excellent arch support
- Machine washable
- I suggest that you get this sandal a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
4. Boundless by Keen
The adaptable Keen sandals combine innovative design with high-quality materials, making them an ideal choice for parents seeking both functionality and style.
Key Features
- Order the Boundless style by Keen on Amazon or Zappos
- Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet (fits high insteps)
- Adjustable back strap
- Water-friendly and machine washable
- Lace-lock bungee closure can be secured and released with one hand
- I suggest that you get this sandal a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
5. Agnes by Memo
These orthopedic sandals for orthotics offer orthopedic support with their anatomically shaped footbed and firm heel counters that aid in maintaining the foot’s correct position.
Key Features
- Order the sandal Michael Corrective Orthopedic by Memo on Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet (fits high insteps)
- 100% leather made
- Ability to adjust the Hook and Loop strap length to the different foot width
- I suggest that you get this sandal a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
You will notice that the adaptable sandals I recommend have extra cushion and padding around the heels, to help prevent irritation and foot issues such as blisters. Disclosure: I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you when you click links and make a purchase.
Get Personalized Shoe Recommendations
As a shoe fitter, I understand that every child’s foot is unique. To help you find the perfect pair of sandals, I offer personalized shoe recommendations tailored to your child’s unique foot shape and foot problem. By considering your child’s specific needs, we can ensure they get the support and comfort they deserve. Personalized recommendations take into account factors such as foot width, arch height, and any specific conditions that might affect shoe fit and comfort.
Are the Velcro Straps of the Sandals Not Long Enough?
If your child’s orthotics are taking up extra space, you might find the Velcro straps on some sandals a bit too short. No need to worry! There’s an affordable Velcro extension I recommend that can easily solve this problem and ensure a secure, customized fit for your child’s sandals.
The Importance of Ordering the Correct Shoe Size
Choosing the right size is crucial for your child’s foot health. If you buy sandals that are overly large in order to accommodate the orthotics this can cause various problems, including discomfort, blisters, and even long-term foot issues. So, it’s essential to get accurate measurements and select the appropriate size, especially for kids who require orthotics. You can use my virtual shoe fitting service to order the correct shoe size online.
Bonus Resource: List of Supportive Shoes for Orthotics
To further assist you, I’ve compiled a comprehensive list of supportive and adaptable sneakers for orthotics. This resource includes detailed information on shoe features, pricing, and where to purchase them.
Watch My Top Sandal Picks for Kids in Orthotics on YouTube!
For more detailed information and visual guidance, check out my YouTube video on the best sandals for kids who wear orthotics. In the video, I discuss the features to look for and showcase some of my top recommendations. Watching the video can provide additional insights and help you make an informed decision.
Feel free to drop any questions you have in the comments below! It’s a great place for other families to share their experiences and offer helpful advice too.
