Best Kids’ Shoes for High Instep and Wide Feet – Extra Depth and Rounder Toe-Boxes!

March 3, 2025 High Instep Juan Valenzuela 0 - Comments

Children with high instep and wide feet often face difficulties when it comes to finding shoes that fit well. A high instep means that the top of the foot is raised higher than usual, while wide feet require more room across the shoe. These two features combined can make shoe shopping challenging. Many standard shoes lack the necessary space, leading to discomfort and potential foot health issues. The search for the right shoe often involves trial and error, which can be frustrating and time-consuming. As a shoe fitting expert, I’ll provide a list of deep, wide shoes for kids with high insteps and wide feet.

Where Is the Instep of the Foot Located?

The instep is the top part of the foot, and most of the time it goes unnoticed by parents. Below are some examples of children with wide feet and high insteps:

An image of a child with high insteps.
A child’s foot with a high instep.

The Challenges of Finding Shoes for High Instep and Wide Feet

With over a decade of experience as a shoe fitter, I’ve helped hundreds of children with high insteps and wide feet find the perfect pair of shoes. I’m confident I can do the same for your child! One of the biggest challenges for kids with high insteps and wide feet is shoes that rub against the top of their feet, leaving painful indentations or red marks. Does the image below look all too familiar? Let’s find a solution together!

An image of a child’s foot with red marks on the top part of his foot.
Child developed a blister on his small toe from wearing narrow shoes.
Children with wide feet and high insteps are more prone to developing foot issues such as blisters, calluses, and corns.

Key Features of Shoes for High Instep and Wide Feet

Your kids’ shoes need to be labeled as wide (W) or extra wide (XW), and the final shoe width you choose for your child depends on how wide your kids’ feet are. The shoes should also provide these two important features:

Key Feature One: Extra Depth

Shoes with extra depth provide the necessary room for a high instep. This feature ensures that there is enough space inside the shoe, preventing any pressure on the top of the foot and allowing for natural movement. Extra depth can prevent the shoe from pressing against the top part of your child’s feet and toes.

The shoe on the right is a lot deeper compared to the shoe on the left. Keep in mind that these shoes are the same length and width, but as you can see, they will fit very differently.

Key Feature Two: Round Toe-Boxes

A round toe-box design is crucial for wide feet, offering ample room for the toes to spread naturally. This prevents pinching and allows for a more comfortable fit, reducing the risk of developing blisters or calluses. A spacious toe-box also encourages proper toe alignment, which is important for balance and stability.

Do you notice how the shoe on the right has a rounder toe-box compared to the shoe on the left? These shoes are the same size but they will fit very differently.

Key Feature Three: Oversized Openings for Easy On and Off

Children with high insteps often struggle to get their feet into shoes easily. Oversized openings make it simple to slide the foot in and out without a struggle, ensuring a hassle-free experience for both children and parents. 

A See Kai Run shoe with oversized openings for children who wear orthotics vs a Tsukihoshi shoe that is not wide or deep enough to accommodate orthotics.
The difference between a shoe with double Velcro straps that opens nice and wide versus a shoe with a single Velcro strap.

If your child has wide feet and high insteps try to stay away from shoe brands such as Nike, Under Armour, Adidas, and Reebok. These shoe brands don’t manufacture shoes that are wide or deep enough for children with high insteps.

Best Shoes for High Instep and Wide Feet – Extra Deep

Based on my experience as a passionate shoe fitter, here are some of the best shoes for kids with high insteps and wide feet. These recommendations take into account the critical features discussed above, ensuring a blend of comfort, style, and functionality.

1. New Balance Kids’ 574 NEW-B Hook & Loop

These New Balance shoes for high instep and wide feet offer extra depth, wide toe boxes, and cushioned midsoles, providing both comfort and support. The wide Velcro straps allow you to open the shoe widely for easy on and off.

New Balance kids shoe style 574 in purple color for girls.
New Balance shoe style 574 in grey for boys.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers, little, and big kids
  • Order the shoe style 574 New-b V1 by New Balance on Amazon or the New Balance website
  • Also available with laces on the New Balance website, Amazon, and Zappos
  • Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
  • Received the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) 
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

2. See Kai Russell and Robyne

See Kai Run specializes in shoes that support healthy foot development. The Russell and Robyne styles feature extra depth and wide toe boxes for children with wide feet and high insteps. The double Velcro straps allow for easy on and off.

See Kai Run Russell shoe for boys.
See Kai Run Robyne for girls.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers and little kids
  • Order the shoe style Robyne by See Kai Run on Zappos or Amazon
  • Not available in wide or extra wide widths but fits naturally wide
  • Awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)
  • Padded tongue and collar for added comfort
  • Breathable textile lining and cushioned insole
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size

3. Shoe Style 990v6 by New Balance

These are the absolute best shoes for high instep and wide feet, and they are available with Velcro or laces. The shoes offer superior depth and width for a comfortable fit. The downside that many parents complain about is the high price tag.

990v6 New Balance shoe with laces in black for kids.
New Balance 990 for kids with laces in purple color.
New Balance 990v6 toddler shoe in black and grey and with velcro closure.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers, little, and big kids
  • You can order the 990v6 with laces on the New Balance website, Amazon, or Zappos
  • Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
  • Also available in pink and navy blue
  • There is also a Velcro version of these shoes available in navy blue and pink
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

4. Ikiki Shoes

Ikiki shoes are a fantastic option for kids with wide feet and high insteps. Designed with a roomy toe box and adjustable straps, they provide a comfortable, secure fit without squeezing or putting pressure on the top of the foot.

Ikiki shoes for toddlers with wide feet.
Ikiki shoes for kids who wear AFOs.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers and little kids
  • Order the shoe style by Ikiki on Amazon
  • Not available in wide or extra wide widths but fits naturally wide
  • Wide opening to make it easy to put on and take off shoes
  • Synthetic Vegan Leather
  • Squeaks can be turned on/off with a switch
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size

5. See Kai Run Lucia Mary Jane

This Mary Jane features extra depth and a roomy toe box that provides ample space for growing feet, while the adjustable hook-and-loop strap ensures a secure, customized fit without pressure on the top of the foot.

See Kai Run Mary Jane Lucia in black patent for toddler girls.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers and little kids
  • Order the shoe style Lucia by See Kai Run on Amazon or Zappos
  • Not available in wide or extra wide widths but fits naturally wide
  • Awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)
  • Durable cotton drill upper, comfy leather insole, and recycled mesh lining keep feet fresh
  • Breathable textile lining and cushioned insole
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size

6. Fresh Foam 650 by New Balance

This New Balance shoe provides extra depth, oversized openings, and round toe-boxes, making it an ideal choice for kids with wide feet and high insteps.

New Balance Fresh Foam 650 with round toe-boxes in navy blue for boys.
New Balance Fresh Foam 650 with round toe-boxes in white and pink for girls.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers, little, and big kids
  • Order the shoe style 650 by New Balance on the New Balance website or Zappos
  • Available in medium and wide widths
  • Also available with laces on Zappos and Amazon
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size

7. Shoe Style Rave Run v2 by New Balance

This shoe provides extra depth and is available in wide and extra wide widths. Parents like that the shoe is offered at an affordable price point.

New Balance Rave Run v2 in bright pink for girls.
New Balance Rave Run v2 in black for toddler boys.
New Balance Rave Run shoe with round toe-boxes for kids with wide feet in pink and grey.
New-Balance-Rave-Run-shoe-with-round-toe-boxes-for-kids-with-wide-feet

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style Rave Run by New Balance on Zappos, Amazon, or the New Balance website
  • Available in wide and extra wide widths
  • Breathable mesh upper
  • Padded collar and tongue
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size

8. Shoe Style Cross Em Up by Adidas

Perfect for sports or everyday wear, this high-top basketball shoe provides a spacious, supportive design with laces for a customizable fit. This shoe ensures comfort without squeezing or rubbing against the top of the foot.

Adidas kids basketball shoe with wide toe-boxes in purple for girls.
Supportive Adidas high top shoe for boys.

Key Features

  • Available for little and big kids
  • Order the shoe style Cross Em Up Select by Adidas on Zappos or Amazon
  • Available in medium and wide widths
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

9. Shoe Style Fresh Foam Arishi v4 by New Balance

These shoes for high instep and wide feet can accommodate children with wide or extra wide feet. Families appreciate how this shoe is available in wide and extra wide widths and offered at a reasonable price.

New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi v4 in light blue for toddler girls.
New Balance kids Fresh Foam Arisihi with wide toe-boxes in navy blue for boys.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers, little, and big kids
  • Order the shoe style Fresh Foam 650 by New Balance on the New Balance website or Amazon
  • Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
  • Also available with laces on the New Balance website, Zappos, and Amazon
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

10. Shoe Style M2P Journey 3.0 Adapt by Stride Rite

This shoe by Stride Rite provides extra depth and extra long Velcro straps to make sure they accommodate your child’s wide feet and high insteps.

Stride Rite M2P Journey 3.0 Adapt in pink for toddler girls.
Stride Rite M2P Journey 3.0 Adapt in grey for toddler boys.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style M2P Journey Adapt by Stride Rite on Zappos or Amazon
  • Available in extra wide widths
  • APMA approved
  • Leather upper
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size

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Get a Personalized Shoe Recommendation

I offer a personalized shoe recommendation service, where I evaluate your child’s foot shape and recommend the best options tailored to their needs. This service ensures you get the perfect fit without the guesswork. By understanding the nuances of your child’s foot structure, I can suggest shoes that offer optimal support and comfort. This tailored approach helps eliminate the frustration of trial and error, saving you time and ensuring satisfaction. You can contact me via email and I will get back to you as soon as possible. 

Find Out What Shoe Size You Should Order Online

Ordering shoes online can be convenient, but it’s essential to ensure you’re choosing the right size and fit. As a shoe fitter, I’ve developed a virtual shoe fitting service that can help you determine the correct shoe size you should order online.

Bonus Resources for Wide Feet and High Insteps

In addition to selecting the right sneakers, here are some resources that can further assist you.

Sandals for High Instep and Wide Feet

Many brands offer sandals specifically designed for children with high insteps and wide feet. Look for options with multiple adjustable straps and cushioned footbeds for all-day comfort.

Boots for High Instep and Wide Feet

When choosing boots, opt for those with elastic panels or laces that can accommodate different foot shapes. Some brands also offer wide-fit options that ensure a comfortable experience. These boots are designed to provide flexibility and support, making them ideal for children with unique foot shapes.

What’s your go-to shoe brand for your child with wide feet and a high instep? Share your favorite in the comment section below! Your experience could be a game-changer for other families facing similar challenges, helping them find the perfect fit for their little ones.