Best Shoes for Kids with Muscular Dystrophy – Comfort, Support and Stability

February 20, 2025 Low Muscle Tone Juan Valenzuela 2 - Comments

Has your child been diagnosed with muscular dystrophy and you are looking for a pair of shoes to help improve your child’s stability? I am a passionate shoe fitter and I know for a fact that proper footwear can help improve your child’s balance and stability. I’ve seen firsthand the positive impact that the right pair of shoes can have on a child’s mobility and confidence. Through personalized consultations and fittings, I aim to address the unique needs of each child.

Can Supportive Shoes Help Your Child with Muscular Dystrophy?

Muscular dystrophy can cause muscle weakness, instability, and difficulty with movement, so it’s crucial to choose footwear that provides proper support and stability. By stabilizing the foot, shoes can enhance a child’s ability to walk, run, and participate in physical activities with more confidence.

Before and After: The Impact of Supportive Shoes

child-with-flat-feet-and-a-moderate-degree-of-pronation
The “before” photo reveals a flat-footed stance, where the child’s feet are collapsing and turning inwards.
child-with-flat-feet-wearing-supportive-shoes
The “after” photo showcases a remarkable improvement, with the child wearing a pair of supportive shoes. Do you notice how the child’s feet are a lot straighter?

Every successful footwear fitting is a cause for celebration. By sharing success stories and positive outcomes, we can inspire other families and build a supportive community. Celebrating these achievements highlights the importance of choosing the right shoes and encourages others to seek out the best options for their children.

How Do I Know Which Shoes Work Better than Others?

As a dedicated shoe fitter, I’m committed to helping families find the perfect pair of shoes for their child’s unique needs. I am familiar with which shoe styles fit better than others and I can also guide you on how to order your kids’ shoes online.

Key Shoe Features for Kids with Muscular Dystrophy

1. Cushioning: Adequate cushioning absorbs shock and provides comfort, essential for children who may experience fatigue or discomfort due to muscular dystrophy. The right cushioning can significantly reduce the impact on the feet during physical activities, making movements smoother and less taxing on the body.

You want to look for shoes with ample cushioning to provide a comfortable and shock-absorbing base as this can help alleviate pressure on your kid’s feet and joints.

2. Stability: Shoes with a sturdy and supportive construction can noticeably help in maintaining balance and reducing the risk that your kid falls. You can opt for designs that have a wider base or a more substantial outsole for increased stability.

supportive-shoes-for-children-with-flat-feet
The difference in support between a pair of Saucony and New Balance shoes.

3. Lightweight and flexible: Shoes that are lightweight and flexible can enhance ease of movement and minimize the fatigue of your kid. You may also want to look for models made from breathable materials that allow for natural foot motion.

children's-shoes-with-the-correct-amount-of-flexibility
Your kids’ shoes should bend at the toes but no further.

4. Wide Toe Box: I have noticed that some children with muscular dystrophy may have foot deformities or require orthotics. If this is the case with your child, then you need to look for shoes with wider widths to accommodate orthotics and offer more space for the feet, reducing discomfort and pressure.

The difference in toe-boxes between a pair of Nike and New Balance shoes.

5. Adjustable Straps: Shoes with Velcro straps or adjustable laces offer a customizable fit, ensuring the shoe stays securely on the foot.

It is important that you involve your kid in the shoe selection process and also seek their feedback on the feel of the shoe. Taking their preferences into account while prioritizing their comfort and well-being is crucial.

Best Shoe Brands for Children with Muscular Dystrophy

Certain shoe brands specialize in orthopedic or adaptive footwear for children with foot problems. However, I don’t like to recommend specific shoe brands as most families assume that all shoes from that brand will be appropriate for their child’s feet. In reality, there are specific shoes among each shoe brand that work a lot better than others.

Each of the shoes I recommend below has been carefully selected in terms of comfort, support, comfort, and stability. 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.

Supportive Shoes for Kids with Muscular Dystrophy

As a shoe fitter with a passion for helping children, I understand the unique needs of kids with special conditions and am committed to guiding you through the process of selecting the most suitable footwear.

1. Shoe Style 990v6 by New Balance

These are the best shoes for muscular dystrophy. The robust outsole helps distribute weight evenly across the foot and reduces strain on the muscles and joints. 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.
990v6 New Balance shoe with laces in black for kids.

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.

2. Shoe Style Gabi by Memo (Orthopedic Shoe)

These orthopedic shoes for muscular dystrophy 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.

Orthopedic shoe for kids made by Memo in grey and yellow with double velcro straps.
Orthopedic shoe for kids made by Memo in grey and pink with double velcro straps.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers and little kids.
  • You can order the shoe style Gabi by Memo on Amazon.
  • Fits medium and wide feet.
  • Also available in a Mary Jane style and a version for older kids called Memo Polo.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size.

3. Shoe Style Elliott by Stride Rite

These high-top booties by Stride Rite offer excellent support and a comfortable fit, making them a top choice for kids with muscular dystrophy. This shoe is affordable and despite the limited color choices, the Elliott shoes are celebrated for their supportive qualities and comfortable fit.

Supportive brown Stride Rite bootie for toddlers with flat feet.
Supportive Stride Rite white bootie for toddlers with flat feet.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers.
  • You can order the shoe style SRT Elliot by Stride Rite on Amazon or Zappos.
  • Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.

4. Shoe style 574 by New Balance

This New Balance shoe combines style with functionality. It offers solid support and cushioning, making it suitable for kids with muscular dystrophy. The shoe is offered at a lower price point.

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.
  • Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths.
  • Also available with laces on the New Balance website, Amazon, and Zappos.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

5. Shoe Style Tracks by Timberland

The sturdy design ensures that children can enjoy outdoor activities without compromising on foot stability or comfort, but this style is slightly heavier than my other shoe recommendations.

Supportive Timberland high-top boot for kids with flat feet.
Supportive Timberland high-top boot for kids with flat feet.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers and little kids.
  • Order the shoe style Tracks by Timberland on Zappos or Amazon.
  • Fits medium and wide feet.
  • Water-friendly
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.

6. Shoe Style Cohesion by Saucony

These shoes for kids with muscular dystrophy offer excellent cushioning and stability. The affordable pricing also makes them accessible to a wide range of families.

Supportive Saucony Cohesion for boys with flat feet.
Supportive Saucony kids Cohesion for girls with flat feet.

Key Features

  • Available for little and big kids.
  • Order the shoe style Cohesion KDZ on Zappos or Amazon.
  • 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 child’s current foot size.

7. Shoe Style Fresh Foam Arishi v4 by New Balance

This is a versatile shoe for kids with muscular dystrophy that provides a soft and comfortable fit while supporting your child’s flat feet. Families appreciate how this shoe is offered at a very reasonable price.

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

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 Zappos and Amazon.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.

8. Shoe Style 2002 by New Balance

The 2002 model by New Balance is another great shoe for kids with muscular dystrophy at a more affordable price point than the 990v6.

Supportive New Balance shoe with laces and green color.
Supportive New Balance shoe with laces and white and pink color for girls.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers, little, and big kids.
  • Order the shoe style 2002 by New Balance on the New Balance website.
  • 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 Cross Em Up by Adidas

The Cross Em Up by Adidas is a basketball-inspired shoe that offers great support for kids with muscular dystrophy. The versatility of the shoe makes it suitable for both sports and everyday wear, adding value for parents looking for multi-functional footwear.

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.

10. Shoe Style GT-1000 by Asics

The GT-1000 by Asics is a popular choice for kids who require extra stability and support. This specific shoe is capable of fitting children with narrow feet.

Supportive red Asics shoes for boys with flat feet.
Supportive Asics running shoe for kids in mint color for girls.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style GT-1000 by Asics on Zappos or Amazon
  • Available for little and big kids.
  • Fits narrow or medium feet.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.

Keep in mind that you should contact your medical professional if your kid’s symptoms increase or worsen. A doctor will be most suited to provide personalized guidance based on the kid’s specific type of muscular dystrophy and medical history.

Important Tip: Make sure that you either pull the velcro straps or the laces of the shoes comfortably tight so your child can get the full support and stability that the shoes have to offer.

How to Get the Correct Shoe Size Online

Medical professionals concur that shoes that are too small hinder the proper growth of the foot, diminishing blood circulation, causing painful blisters, ingrown toenails, calluses, corns, and many other foot problems. Shoes that are too large might prevent your kid from maintaining grip on the ground properly, compromising your child’s stability.

For this reason, 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, extra wide feet, and/or high insteps.

Has Your Child Been Diagnosed with Orthotics Such As AFOs or SMOs?

If your child has been prescribed orthotics like AFOs or SMOs, it’s crucial to find supportive and deep shoes that can accommodate these devices.

Shoes for AFOs for boys in men's shoe sizes.
Images of children wearing AFOs with their sneakers.

Related Articles That May Be Helpful: Orthotics and Sandals

Orthotics can provide significant support and alignment for children with muscular dystrophy, but only if they are used in conjunction with the right footwear. If you’re also considering sandals for your child, ensure they offer similar supportive features. Sandals can be a great option for warmer months, but they should not compromise on support or stability. For more information on orthotics and footwear, consider reading related articles on orthotics and sandals. 

Let’s Stay Connected – Questions, Feedback or Further Assistance

Many families ask questions in online forums such as Reddit or Quora trying to find out which shoes can help improve their child’s stability. Other parents who are going through the same situation tend to provide good feedback and recommendations, but it’s always better to consult with a medical professional or a shoe fitter who knows which shoes work better than others.

If you have questions or need further assistance in finding the perfect shoes for your child, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to help and provide guidance to ensure your child receives the full benefits that supportive shoes have to offer.