Best Extra Wide Toddler Boots – Extra Deep, Round Toe-Boxes, and Oversized Openings!
Do you always struggle getting your toddler’s boots on and off and the ones that go on their feet leave red marks or indentations on the top part (instep) of the feet? The bones in a toddler’s feet are not fully formed and are more like cartilage, which means they can be easily molded into the wrong shape if the footwear is too tight or constricting. Moreover, choosing boots that are too narrow can lead to discomfort, pain, and even long-term foot problems. Extra wide boots offer the necessary room for little toes to move freely, promoting better balance and reducing the risk of foot deformities.
Why Extra Wide Boots Matter
Extra wide boots are essential for toddlers with wider feet or high insteps because they provide the necessary space and support without constricting the foot. Did you know that most toddlers have wide or extra wide feet? This doesn’t mean that your toddler’s feet are always going to stay extra wide. Some toddlers might still be carrying baby fat on their feet and once it goes away their feet slim down.
Having enough room in the boot can help improve your toddler’s circulation, which is vital for keeping feet warm in winter months and ensuring overall foot health.
Narrow Boots Can Lead to Several Foot Issues
One of the most common complaints parents have is how they struggle to get their toddler’s boots on and off. Did you know that this is usually the first sign that the boots might not be wide or deep enough for your toddler’s feet? For example, do you usually notice red marks on the top part of your toddler’s feet? This usually means that the boots might not be deep enough.
Boots that are too narrow and have pointier toe-boxes instead of rounded ones can lead to several foot issues such as blisters, calluses, and corns. The small toe is usually the most vulnerable one as it’s the one that gets pushed and cramped by the other toes against the side of the boots:
Does Your Toddler Also Have High Insteps?
A high instep means the top part of the foot is taller than average. This can make finding suitable boots challenging, as standard boots might apply undue pressure on the top of the foot. Boots for toddlers with high insteps should have a deep enough design to accommodate this feature without causing pressure or discomfort.
Adequate room in the instep area allows for proper blood flow and prevents the foot from being squished, which can cause pain and impede natural movement. It’s also crucial that the boots have adjustable fastenings to cater to varying instep heights, ensuring a comfortable fit.
The Struggle of Finding Boots for Toddlers with Extra Wide Feet
Unfortunately, there is only a small selection of shoe brands that manufacture boots for toddlers with extra wide feet. Some of my go-to shoe brands are:
- Tsukihoshi
- Bogs
- See Kai Run
- Stride Rite
- Merrell
- Timberland
It’s important to note that not all boots from these six shoe brands are effective in accommodating an extra wide foot. There are specific boot styles among these shoe brands that work a lot better than others, and I will show them to you shortly.
Key Features to Look for in Extra Wide Toddler Boots
1. Rounded Toe-Boxes: This feature is going to prevent your toddler’s toes from rubbing against one another or the side of the boots.
2. Extra Depth: This feature is going to allow your toddler’s feet to fit deeply inside the boots and prevent the top part of the feet (instep) and toes from rubbing against the top part of the boots.
3. Oversized Openings: Toddlers with chubby feet have difficulty slipping into boots that don’t easily open. You will notice that the boots I recommend open up widely, which makes it easier for toddlers and parents to get the boots on and off. Some toddlers require wide calf boots so their legs don’t get stuck when trying to get the boots on and off.
4. Extra Wide Widths: Let’s clarify one common misconception about children’s shoes: There’s wide and then there’s extra wide, and the boots that I recommend are available in both sizes. Several families assume that their toddlers have wide feet when in fact they have extra wide feet. If your toddler has extra wide feet a pair of wide shoes might not cut it, you will need the extra wide width.
Having worked in a specialized children’s shoe store since 2013, I have curated a list of top boot recommendations for toddlers with extra wide feet and high insteps. 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 Extra Wide Toddler Boots – Deep, Round, and Oversized Openings
Each of these options has been selected based on their ability to provide comfort, support, and durability for growing feet. If any of the boots below are not available in wide or extra wide widths that’s because the boots fit naturally wide.
1. Atlas by See Kai Run
This is one of the most versatile extra wide toddler boots as it can be worn in the snow and rain. The lightweight design and flexible outsole allow your toddler to wear this boot for longer periods of time. Even though the boot is not available in extra wide widths it fits naturally wide and deep.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers and little kids.
- Order the boot style Atlas II WP/IN by See Kai Run on Zappos or Amazon.
- Fits extra wide feet (accommodates high insteps).
- This is a waterproof and insulated boot that can be worn in the snow and rain.
- Double velcro straps.
- Awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).
- I suggest that you get this boot a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.
2. Baby Bogs by Bogs
These awesome extra wide toddler snow boots work best for toddlers who are learning how to walk or already walking. The boots have a lightweight and flexible design with a velcro strap on the back that allows for a secure fit and easy on and off.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers.
- Order the boot style II Solid by Bogs on Zappos or Amazon.
- Fits extra wide feet (accommodates high insteps).
- This is a waterproof and insulated snow boot that can be used in the snow.
- Hook/loop strap and sturdy handles make these winter boots easy for little kids to get on and off.
- Machine washable.
- Comfort rated to 14°F/-10°C.
- I suggest that you get this boot a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.
3. Gilman by See Kai Run
These cozy winter boots for toddlers have oversized openings and adjustable straps that make it easy to achieve the perfect fit, while the sturdy and lightweight design makes the boot suitable to be worn for long periods of time.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers and little kids.
- Order the boot Gilman WP/in by See Kai Run on Amazon or Zappos.
- Fits extra wide feet (accommodates high insteps).
- This boot can be used on cold days, rain, and snow.
- Delivering 360-degree warmth with 3M Thinsulate thermal insulation.
- Fleece lining for warmth.
- I suggest that you get this boot a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.
4. Skye Adaptable by See Kai Run
See Kai Run’s Skye Adaptable toddler winter boots are specifically designed for toddlers with extra wide feet and high insteps. They feature a wider opening and adjustable straps, making them easy to get on and off. This boot is also one of my go-to winter boots for toddlers with high insteps and wide feet.
Key Features
- Order the shoe style Skye Adapt Waterproof by See Kai Run on Amazon or Zappos.
- Fits extra wide feet (accommodates high insteps).
- Waterproof-treated textile and synthetic upper.
- Adjustable extra-long straps.
- Rubber toe cap adds durability.
- Thermoplastic rubber outsole with a rugged tread pattern built for maximum grip on wet and snowy terrain.
- I suggest that you get this boot a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.
5. Larkin by See Kai Run
With a wide fit and a breathable mesh lining, these boots offer comfort and flexibility, making them suitable for various winter activities.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers and little kids.
- Order the boot style Larkin by See Kai Run on Amazon.
- Fits extra wide feet (accommodates high insteps).
- This boot can be used in the snow.
- Seam-sealed, waterproof membrane construction.
- Awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).
- I suggest that you get this boot a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.
6. Alpenglow by North Face
These North Face toddler boots for extra wide feet will help keep your toddler’s feet warm and dry during snow play. The boot opens up nice and wide, making it ideal for toddlers with extra wide feet and high insteps. This is one of my go-to boots for high instep.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers.
- Order the boot Alpenglow by North Face on Zappos or Amazon.
- Fits extra wide feet (accommodates high insteps).
- This boot can be used in the snow.
- Waterproof suede upper and seam-sealed design.
- Cushioned footbed.
- I suggest that you get this boot a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.
7. Snow Boot by Dream Pairs
These extra wide toddler snow boots feature double velcro straps with a side zipper for easy on and off. Dream Pairs makes some of the best winter boots for toddlers with extra wide feet.
Key Features
- Order the shoe style Ducko Ankle Winter Snow by Dream Pairs on Amazon.
- Fits extra wide feet (accommodates high insteps).
- Double velcro straps with a side zipper closure for oversized openings and easy on and off.
- Waterproof and Insulated.
- I suggest that you get this boot a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.
Are These Boots Waterproof or Water Friendly?
Some of these extra wide toddler winter boots are fully waterproof while others are water friendly. You will need to take a look at the description below each boot that I recommended to find out whether it’s waterproof or water-friendly.
Personalized Shoe Recommendations
As a shoe fitter, I understand that every child’s feet are unique. If you’re struggling to find the perfect pair of boots for your toddler, don’t hesitate to reach out for personalized shoe recommendations. By contacting me via email, I can offer expert advice tailored to your toddler’s specific needs and unique foot shape. Personalized recommendations can save time and frustration, ensuring you find the right fit quickly and efficiently.
Ordering the Correct Shoe Size Online
With the convenience of online shopping, many parents wonder how to ensure they order the correct shoe size. The challenge lies in the inability to physically try on the shoes before purchase. Fortunately, Fitting Children’s Shoes offers a free virtual shoe fitting service that will help you retrieve your child’s shoe size from home.
Should You Buy Bigger Sizes for Your Toddler to Wear the Boots Longer?
Toddlers’ feet can grow extremely quickly, and while sizing up might seem like an easy solution, you don’t want your toddler tripping over their feet. Properly fitted boots ensure that your child can move safely and confidently, without the risk of injury.
In my experience, toddlers can outgrow their shoes every three to four months. However, it’s not worth it to get the boots too big hoping that your toddler can wear them longer. For example, I live in Washington DC and the winter season lasts around 4 months. So, if your winter season lasts about the same and you provide your toddler with the correct amount of growing room (without the need to go extra long), your toddler will be able to wear the boots for the whole winter season.
Can Toddlers Wear These Boots as Their Everyday Shoes?
No, I strongly suggest that you provide your toddler with a pair of everyday sneakers to alternate with the boots. Even though these boots are all lightweight and flexible, they are heavier than sneakers. Toddlers should wear their sneakers for most of the day to prevent their feet from easily getting tired.
What Are the Best Sneakers for Toddlers with Extra Wide Feet?
I have created many resources over the years for toddlers with extra wide feet. One of the most popular ones describes deep and wide toddler sneakers in extra wide widths.
What Socks Should Your Toddler Wear with Boots?
Any socks will do, as long as they are tall enough to match the height of the boots. It’s important that the top part of the boots doesn’t rub or create friction against your toddler’s skin. Crew socks usually work best with boots.
- Order these socks made by Amazon Essentials on Amazon
- Size 2T-3T fits shoe sizes 5-8 and size 4T-5T fit shoes sizes 8-11
- 73% Cotton, 18% Polyester, 7% Nylon, 2% Elastane
- Order these socks made by Jefferies on Zappos
- Three-pack of lightweight socks with various striped prints-and-patterns
- 70% cotton, 27% polyester, 3% spandex
Be careful about buying a certain shoe brand or shoe style simply because a friend or family member recommends it. What works well for some children with extra wide feet might not work as well for others. All of the boots I recommended have fitted several toddlers with extra wide feet, and hopefully, they will be able to fit your toddler’s feet as well!
Have you found a specific boot or shoe that worked well for your toddler’s extra wide feet? What is your favorite shoe brand for your toddler? Share your findings in the comments section below so other families can benefit from your experiences!
