Best Shoes for Kids with AFOs: Stop Buying Bigger Shoes to Accommodate the AFOs
Last Updated: August 2026 | Juan Valenzuela, Certified Children’s Shoe Fitter
AFOs can enhance your child’s mobility by keeping the feet and legs in proper alignment, correcting abnormal walking patterns, and reducing the risk of falls. But fitting your child’s AFOs in the wrong pair of shoes can make the AFOs virtually worthless. The best shoes for kids with AFOs provide a stable base of support and extra depth while staying lightweight and flexible.
Please Don’t Get Your Kids’ Shoes Too Big
A properly fitting shoe is critical to how well an AFO actually works. Shoes that are too big defeat the purpose of the brace, so the goal is to stay as close to your child’s actual foot size as possible. Medical professionals get frustrated when a child’s functional mobility is compromised because the shoes don’t fit the AFOs correctly — in most cases, the shoes are simply fitted too big.
My Experience Helping Children Find Shoes for AFOs
I’ve been fitting children’s shoes and orthotics for the last 10 years at a specialized children’s shoe store that focuses on helping kids with foot and leg conditions. Physical and occupational therapists refer families to us specifically for this. Footwear options aren’t as limited as they seem, but it takes real experience to know what actually works with AFOs.
I’m not here to restrict what your child wears — style matters to kids, and I understand that. But I do feel a responsibility to tell you honestly if a shoe is doing more harm than good. You’re investing real time and money in an AFO, so it’s worth getting the full benefit from it.
Two Common Mistakes Parents Make When Fitting Shoes for AFOs
There’s a lot of misinformation about what shoes work best with AFOs. One common mistake: assuming that any shoe that physically fits over the AFO is automatically a good choice — fitting isn’t the same as fitting well.
The other common mistake: sizing up by a full size and a half or more. Anything beyond that compromises your child’s stability, which undermines one of the main reasons for wearing an AFO in the first place.
Be Careful About Taking Advice from Other Families
I understand how exciting it is to find a shoe that finally fits over your child’s AFO — but I’ve noticed many families end up in shoes that are simply too big. Sometimes a shoe gets recommended online purely because it “fit,” without mentioning it was sized two full sizes larger than the child’s actual foot. Nearly any shoe will fit an AFO if you size it up that much — the trick is finding one that fits without doing that.
Six Key Features of AFO-Friendly Shoes for Kids
1. Extra depth — lets the AFO sit deeply inside the shoe, which increases comfort and prevents the sensation that the foot is sliding out.
2. Round toe boxes — helps prevent the front edge of the AFO from wearing through the front of the shoe over time.
3. A wider opening for easy on-and-off — lets you slide the AFO into the shoe without a daily struggle.
4. A substantial outsole — holds the AFO in place while still supporting your child’s feet.
5. A firm heel counter — adds heel and ankle support and helps keep the heel stabilized.
6. Removable insoles — pulling the factory insole creates the extra room the AFO actually needs.
That’s a lot to look for, but several shoes deliver on all six — that’s exactly what’s below. One more thing worth knowing: high-tops aren’t automatically better for fitting AFOs than low-tops.
The shoes below work for solid, hinged, and dynamic ankle-foot orthoses. Because of their extra depth, you’ll be able to order a size that closely matches your child’s actual foot length, rather than sizing up dramatically to compensate.
Disclosure: some links below are affiliate links — I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you click and purchase.
Best Shoes for Kids with AFOs: Deep and Supportive
These shoes combine deep shoe beds with oversized openings, making it easier to insert and wear the orthosis comfortably.
990v6 by New Balance
The New Balance 990v6 model is the deepest and most supportive New Balance shoe. Available in wide and extra wide widths means that you won’t have to get the shoes overly large to accommodate the AFOs. Parents report positive feedback on how these shoes accommodate AFOs and are durable.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids
- Order with laces on the New Balance website or Amazon
- Velcro version also available on the New Balance website or Amazon
- Accommodates medium, wide, or extra wide feet
- Firm heel counters, stable base of support, and semi-straight lasts
- Ideal for moderate to strong cases of pronation
- Removable insoles
- Sizing tip: Measure from the end of your child’s AFO or SMO footplate, then order a half size larger than that measurement — not just your child’s regular foot size
Dean Adapt II by See Kai Run
See Kai Run offers an adaptable line for kids who wear AFOs with shoes that provide extra long straps and extra depth to allow the AFOs to sit deeply inside of the shoes. These shoes have a lightweight design.
Key Features
- Order on Amazon
- Available for toddlers and little kids
- Not available in wide or extra wide widths but fits naturally wide
- Sizing tip: Measure from the end of your child’s AFO or SMO footplate, then order a half size larger than that measurement — not just your child’s regular foot size
Holly Mary Jane by Stride Rite
Stride Rite has an adaptable line and one of its most popular shoes for AFOs is a stylish Mary Jane that parents love because their children can use it for casual wear or dressier occasions.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers and little kids
- Order on Amazon
- Available in extra wide widths
- Sizing tip: Measure from the end of your child’s AFO or SMO footplate, then order a whole size larger than that measurement — not just your child’s regular foot size
IKIKI Shoes
Ikiki shoes are designed with a focus on functionality and fun. They feature a wide toe box that supports natural foot movement, and many of their designs include playful characters and bright colors that toddlers love.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers and little kids
- Order 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
- Sizing tip: Measure from the end of your child’s AFO or SMO footplate, then order a half size larger than that measurement — not just your child’s regular foot size.
M2P Journey 3.0 Adapt by Stride Rite
These sneakers are part of the Stride Rite adaptable line and come with extra long velcro straps and are available in extra wide widths.
Key Features
- Order on Amazon
- Accommodates wide or extra wide feet
- APMA approved
- Leather upper
- Ideal for mild cases of pronation
- Sizing tip: Measure from the end of your child’s AFO or SMO footplate, then order a half size larger than that measurement — not just your child’s regular foot size
Billy Shoes
Billy Shoes have become a favorite among families with children who wear AFOs. Their unique zipper design allows for easy on-and-off, making them a convenient choice for both parents and children.
Key Features
- Available for little and big kids
- Order on Amazon
- Available in extra wide widths
- Leather upper
- Sizing tip: Measure from the end of your child’s AFO or SMO footplate, then order a half size larger than that measurement — not just your child’s regular foot size
Gabi and Alvin by Memo (Orthopedic Shoe)
These orthopedic shoes are specifically designed to improve foot posture and comfort. The higher price point is a common complaint parents have but the investment in orthopedic shoes is often justified by their specialized design and effectiveness in addressing flat feet.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers and little kids
- Order the model Gabi or Alvin on Amazon
- Also available in a Mary Jane style and a version for older kids called Memo Polo
- Accommodates medium and wide feet
- Ideal for moderate to strong cases of pronation
- High-top design with stiff heel counters
- Sizing tip: Order a half size larger than your child’s current foot size. Refer to Memo sizing chart
Get in Touch for a Personalized Shoe Recommendation
I’m happy to provide recommendations based on your child’s unique foot shape and AFO type — contact me with your child’s shoe size needed for the AFOs and the country you’re ordering from, so I can check what’s actually available to you.
How to Lace Your Kids’ Shoes to Secure the AFOs
If you go with a laced pair, I strongly recommend a specific lacing technique that secures and supports the heel and helps prevent it from slipping — it also works well for kids who tend to kick their AFOs off.
Feedback from Families and Successful Stories
Many families have shared how these recommendations improved their child’s comfort and mobility — I feel genuinely lucky to help with this.
The Problem with Oversized Shoes
Shoes that are too big can’t support your child’s gait or weight transitions, and they compromise stability. I know dealing with your child’s AFO is time-consuming and frustrating, but every quarter-inch of improvement is worth fighting for. Ask yourself: how steady would you feel walking or running in oversized shoes?
How to Order the Correct Size for Your Child’s AFOs
Most families simply size up their normal shoe by two or more sizes — which can undo the whole purpose of the AFO. I’ve put together a system that takes about a minute and gives you real confidence in what you’re ordering.
Step 3: Send your child’s measurements. Email both measurements to fittingchildrensshoes@gmail.com. I’ll respond within 24 hours with the exact shoe size to order.
How I Determine the Right Shoe Size for AFOs
Say your child’s AFO measures 6½ inches. I place a measuring tape against the Brannock Device, and that tells me the corresponding shoe size — in this case, 6½ inches lands right at the size 10 mark, so that’s the size to order. Not an inch longer, not an inch shorter.
What Are the Best Socks for Kids Who Wear AFOs?
Medical professionals generally advise that AFOs shouldn’t touch the skin directly. Some kids tolerate any sock; others find seams or short socks uncomfortable — check your child’s skin regularly, since seams can rub, and short socks let plastic and strapping contact bare skin.
Choose socks that are at least as tall as the AFO, with minimal or no seams. Thinner socks tend to fit more easily inside the brace than thicker ones.
Kids Seamless AFO Interface Socks (Single Pair)
- Order these SmartKnit socks on Amazon or their official website
- Completely free of seams
- The socks have a unique “no heel” design that allows young children to easily put on their socks
- Non-binding Halo Top prevents the socks from slipping down or irritating indentions on the ankle
- High-tech fibers remove perspiration
- Machine washable
- Note: Some links may be affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Seamless AFO Interface Socks (3 Pack)
- Order these SmartKnit socks on Amazon or their official website
- Completely free of seams
- The socks have a unique “no heel” design that allows young children to easily put on their socks
- Non-binding Halo Top prevents the socks from slipping down or irritating indentions on the ankle
- High-tech fibers remove perspiration
A note worth flagging: one parent (JoAnn) reported that the top edge of her daughter’s SmartKnit socks unraveled after only four wears, on more than one pair. I’m not aware of this being a widespread issue, but if you notice the same thing, it’s worth documenting and reaching out to SmartKnit directly, since these are otherwise the most consistently recommended option I’ve fit.
Are All New Balance Extra Wide Shoes a Good Choice for AFOs?
Be skeptical of blanket advice like “just try New Balance in extra wide.” New Balance’s kids’ lineup is extensive, and models vary a lot in fit and support — not every extra wide New Balance style accommodates an AFO well. The same is true of Billy: some families have great luck, others don’t, simply because not every Billy style is built the same way.
A Myth Worth Addressing: Crocs and AFOs
I’ve seen plenty of kids wearing Crocs with their AFOs, usually because they’re so easy to put on and off. But think about what an AFO is actually for — stability. Crocs are about as unstable as footwear gets. Convenience doesn’t outweigh the stability tradeoff here.
How Long Does Your Child Need to Wear AFOs?
This depends entirely on the severity of your child’s condition and their treatment goals — some kids wear AFOs nearly all day, others just for a few hours. This is genuinely a question for your medical professional, not something a shoe article can answer.
Velcro Extenders for AFO Shoes
If you use one of the Velcro shoes I recommend, you likely won’t need an extender. If you already own a pair and the strap doesn’t reach all the way across, your orthotist can typically add an extender free of charge. If an appointment isn’t readily available, a Velcro extender is something you can add yourself.
Watch: What to Look for in AFO-Friendly Shoes
This video walks through the specific features your child’s shoes need to work well with an AFO.
Join a Community of Families Who Understand
If you’d like to connect with other parents navigating the same shoe challenges, I run a Facebook group called Shoes for Kids Who Wear AFOs or SMOs. It’s a space to share what’s worked (and what hasn’t), ask questions, and hear from families going through the exact same search you are. Feel free to join if you’d find that kind of support helpful.
Best Resources for Children Who Wear AFOs
Beyond everyday sneakers, I’ve put together dedicated guides to dress shoes, boots, and rain boots for kids who wear AFOs.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on how tall the lift is. Some families have had success with extra wide, extra deep options like Billy Shoes even with a significant heel lift, but very tall lifts sometimes need a shoe evaluated in person. Reach out with the specific measurement and I can help narrow it down.
Not necessarily — the high-top version doesn’t provide meaningfully more support than the standard sneaker for most kids, so you can choose based on style preference rather than assuming the high-top is the “safer” option.
More often than you might expect — between the AFO’s own wear on the interior of the shoe (especially around the toe box and footbed) and your child’s foot growth, many families find these shoes wear out faster than a typical pair. Check the fit and the shoe’s interior condition every 2-3 months rather than waiting for obvious signs of outgrowing them.
Often, yes — a shoe sized and fitted specifically for the AFO’s extra volume will usually be too loose without it. If your child spends meaningful time without the brace (like at home or during certain therapies), a second, properly fitted pair for bare-foot wear is worth having.
Final Thoughts
Every child is different, and it’s worth factoring in your child’s specific needs when choosing AFO shoes. I always suggest asking your orthotist or physical therapist how the shoes your child is currently wearing actually fit. If you’ve found a shoe style that’s worked well for your child’s AFOs, share it in the comments — it could help another family in the same search.
Are the See Kai Run high tops better than the regular ones?
Hello Claudia,
The high top version of the See Kai Run shoes don’t necessarily provides better support than the regular sneakers, so you can choose either.
My daughter wears a Billy 6xw shoe with inserts removed because it’s the only shoe I’ve found that fits her AFO which has about an inch and a half heel lift, making them very tall are the ankle. Any other suggestions of shoes that might fit?
Also any suggestions on socks other than SmartKnit. She wears a child small and really needs the seamless, form fit they provide but we’ve been having problems with the top edge unraveling. One pair only lasted four wears. One of her silver infused ones are also unraveling.
Hello JoAnn,
Does your daughter wear a toddler shoe size 6 or a big kid shoe size 6?
I just wanted to say thank you for this site and links. Your information is invaluable to me as a parent of a child with an AFO. I come to this site regularly. At times when I have been so defeated searching for shoes for my little girl, this site has helped. You provide information that my child’s orthotist does not, but I think should, so thank you again.
Hello Collette,
I understand the struggle that many families go through when looking for shoes to accommodate their child’s AFOs. In addition, fitting AFOs in shoes that are too long can defeat the whole investment that families make in the AFOs.
I am happy to help and I will be here in case you have any questions.
I need to find a rain boot that will work with a tall AFO, and my child has extra wide feet. She wears a size 4 (big kid) currently
Hello Christina,
Did you already take a look at this article: Rain Boots for Kids with AFOs – Wider Opening and Extra Deep for Easy On and Off!
The first option is available in your daughter’s shoe size. However, it’s not a rain boot, it’s a shoe cover, so I am not sure if that’s something you will be okay with.
Thank you for writing this. It’s such a struggle to find shoes for children with AFOs and I always have the feeling my child ends up wearing shoe that are way too big, making it hard for him to walk and balance. I sent you an email so I can retrieve what shoe sizeI need to order and I look forward to your response.
Hello Bernard,
I respond to emails in the order that they are received, and I will get to yours as soon as possible.
Juan I want to order the New Balance shoes you recommend but I am unsure about which shoe size I should order. I always end up returning the shoes back and forth and it’s a waste of time. How can I make sure that I order the correct shoe size for my child’s AFOs?
Hello,
I suggest that you follow the instructions on this article: How to Get the Correct Shoe Size for Your Child’s AFOs – Follow These 2 Simple Steps!
This is a great site that will help a lot of people. I know that most parents of children who have to wear AFO’s have no idea that there are shoes that will fit them better (extra wide and extra deep.). Thank you for putting this resource together and helping many families.
Hello.
I am happy to help!
I have been struggling to find shoes that are able to work well with some AFO. So, when I found your site, I felt relieved. Do you know if I need to fit the AFOs inside sandals? Do you have a resource on how to make sure that I order the correct shoe size for my child’s AFOs?
Hello Ann,
Whether your child needs to wear AFOs with his/her sandals depends on the degree of your child’s foot condition. This is a question for your medical professional who recommended the AFOs.
To answer your second question, take a look at this resource: How to Get the Correct Shoe Size for Your Child’s AFOs – Follow These 2 Simple Steps!
Hello Juan. Well I have to commend you for putting together this Informative article.Finding a pair of shoes to fit over AFOs has been a nightmare, and most medical professionals have no idea which shoes work better than others. I didn’t know shoes with shoelaces made such a difference. Thank you for all your efforts.
Hello Vanabell
Shoes with shoelaces make a big difference when it come to fitting AFOs, as they help secure the AFOs. They also make a tremendous difference improving stability.