Best Sneakers for Toddlers with Wide Feet and High Insteps – Extra Deep, Rounded Toe-Boxes, and Easy On and Off!

January 19, 2025 Toddler Shoes Juan Valenzuela 0 - Comments

Do you always struggle to get your toddler’s shoes on and off and notice that the Velcro straps of the shoes don’t extend far enough across the shoes? Many toddlers have wide feet or high insteps, which can make finding suitable shoes challenging. Wide feet need additional space across the shoe, while a high instep requires extra depth to avoid pressure on the top of the foot. The best sneakers for toddlers with wide feet and high insteps provide extra depth, rounded toe-boxes, and oversized openings for easy on and off.

My Experience Fitting Children’s Shoes

As a shoe fitter with years of hands-on experience, I’m here to guide you through the essentials of selecting sneakers that will support your toddler’s foot health. Shoes play a very important role in a child’s life, especially at an early stage. I believe that it takes a great responsibility and conscientious effort on my part to fit children’s shoes, since the future health and development of the child’s foot is my personal responsibility and parents are placing their complete trust in me.

Examples of Toddlers with Wide Feet and High Insteps

An extra wide toddler's foot with high insteps.
This toddler has very wide feet and a high instep.
Child with a high instep.
An image of a toddler with a high instep.
Toddler with red marks on the top part of his feet.
Toddler with wide feet and red marks on the top part of his feet.

I helped all those toddlers and many more find the correct pair of shoes for their wide feet and high insteps, so I am confident I will be able to help your toddler as well.

Key Features of Toddler Shoes for Wide Feet and High Instep

1. Rounded Toe-Boxes: A round, spacious toe box allows the toes to spread naturally, which is vital for balance and comfort. A wide toe box supports the natural development of the foot, allowing bones and muscles to grow without restriction. This design feature is essential for toddlers who are still developing their balance and coordination. Wide toe boxes also help prevent common foot issues such as bunions and overlapping toes.

Do you notice how the shoe on the right (New Balance) has a rounded toe-box compared to the shoe on the left (Nike)?

2. Extra Depth: Shoes with deeper designs allow your toddler’s feet to sit deeply inside the shoes, preventing the top part of the foot (instep), from rubbing against the top part of the shoes.

Do you notice how the sneaker on the right (See Kai Run) is a lot deeper compared to the shoe on the left (Nike)?

3. Oversized Openings: Shoes that open nice and wide help make it easier for parents to get their toddler’s shoes on and off. Adjustable closures provide the flexibility to customize the fit, which is essential for addressing both width and instep needs.

An image of a See Kai Run shoe with double Velcro straps that opens nice and wide.

Take your time to explore the sneaker options as shown below. Make sure that you click on the specific model that you like as the shoe is probably available in many different colors. 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 Sneakers for Toddlers with Wide Feet and High Insteps

I am a dedicated shoe fitter who has over a decade of experience fitting children’s shoes, and I have fitted all of the shoes I recommend below so I know how they fit and the quality the shoes are made of.

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

These shoes for high instep and wide feet are a popular choice among parents for their combination of style and comfort.

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

Key Features

  • 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.
  • Received the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). 
  • Durable rubber outsole pods.
  • Synthetic/mesh upper.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

2. See Kai Russell and Robyne

These are the best shoes for high instep and wide feet and See Kai Run specializes in shoes that support healthy foot development. The Russell and Robyne styles feature wide toe boxes and flexible rubber outsoles, perfect for active toddlers.

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

Key Features

  • 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. Stride Rite Unisex-Child Sr Thompson Sneaker

Stride Rite is a well-known brand in children’s footwear, and their Soft Motion Thompson model is perfect for toddlers who need a wide toe box.

Stride Rite Thompson in pink for girls.
Stride Rite Thompson in navy blue for boys.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style Thompson Sneaker on Amazon.
  • Available in wide widths.
  • 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.

4. See Kai Run Lucia Mary Jane

These toddler Mary Jane shoes offer a flexible sole and a roomy toe box that allow toddlers to move naturally, enhancing both comfort and stability. For parents looking for a more dressy option, the See Kai Run Lucia Mary Jane provides both style and comfort.

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

Key Features

  • 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.

5. Saucony Kids’ Jazz Hook & Loop Sneaker

With a wide fit, lightweight design, and easy-to-use hook-and-loop closure, these high instep toddler shoes provide the support and flexibility that active toddlers need.

Saucony Jazz Lite 2.0 for girls.
Saucony Jazz Lite 2.0 in black and grey for boys.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style Jazz by Saucony on Amazon or Zappos.
  • Available in medium and wide widths.
  • Awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).
  • Leather and mesh upper for durability and breathability.
  • Breathable textile lining and cushioned insole.
  • Machine washable for quick and easy clean.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

6. Merrell Kids’ Bare Steps Sneaker

The Merrell’s Bare Steps sneaker is designed with a wide toe box and a barefoot feel, encouraging natural foot development.

Merrell Bare Steps shoe style in pink for toddler girls.
Merrell Bare Steps in grey for toddler boys.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style Bare Steps by Merrell 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).
  • Padded tongue and collar for added comfort.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

7. Ten Little

Ten Little shoes are designed with a focus on fit and function. The wide design and easy-on, easy-off feature make them a great choice for toddlers with wide feet.

Ten Little toddler shoe in black and with double velcro straps.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style by Ten Little on Amazon.
  • Not available in wide or extra wide widths but fits naturally wide.
  • Approved by APMA (American Podiatric Medical Association) and developed with doctors.
  • Flexible, zero-drop soles for natural movement
  • Breathable textile lining and cushioned insole.
  • Durable toe caps protect little toes.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

8. Stride Rite Holly Mary Jane

These Mary Jane toddler shoes are a popular choice for parents seeking a stylish yet practical shoe. It features a wide toe box that accommodates natural toe splay and a secure strap that keeps the shoe in place during play.

Stride Rite Holly Mary Jane in gold for girls.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style SR Holly by Stride Rite on Zappos or Amazon.
  • Available in extra wide widths.
  • Awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).
  • Padded tongue and collar for added comfort.
  • Supreme comfort care of Ortholite memory foam footbeds.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

9. TSUKIHOSHI 1521 KAZ

Tsukihoshi is known for its lightweight and comfortable shoes. These high instep toddler shoes feature a wide toe box and a breathable mesh upper, making it perfect for active play.

Tsukihoshi kids Kaz in navy blue for boys.
Tsukihoshi Kaz in bright pink for girls.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style KAZ by Tsukihoshi on Amazon.
  • All Tsukihoshi shoes run wider than normal medium-width shoes.
  • Generous forefoot construction allows toes to splay naturally for superior balance and comfort.
  • Padded tongue and collar for added comfort.
  • Machine-washable synthetic leather and nylon mesh upper.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe the same size as your toddler’s current foot size (the shoe fits long)

10. Ikiki Shoes

These shoes feature a wide opening and adjustable straps, ensuring a secure fit for toddlers with wider feet. 

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

Key Features

  • 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.

Consulting a Professional Shoe Fitter for Additional Recommendations

Virtual consultations provide an opportunity to ask specific questions and get detailed answers. I can provide personalized shoe recommendations via email based on your toddler’s unique foot shape and size. This can help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure that you choose the best shoes for your toddler.

Virtual Shoe Fitting Services to Get the Correct Shoe Size Online

Embracing technology, virtual shoe fitting services can be a game-changer. They help you accurately measure your child’s feet and guide you in selecting the right size and style, eliminating much of the guesswork involved in online shopping.

How Can You Tell If Your Toddler Has a High Instep?

Do you feel like you always struggle getting your toddler’s shoes on and off and when you take them off you notice imprints or indentations on the top part (instep) of your toddler’s feet? When families struggle to get their toddler’s shoes on and off that’s a sign that the child might have wide feet and high insteps, or that the shoes are the wrong size.

1. Visual Examination. The most common sign that a child has a high instep is when you notice red marks on the top part of the child’s feet:

An image of a toddler’s foot with indentations on the top part of his foot.
An image of a toddler standing barefoot with red marks on the top part of his feet.

2. Fit Test: The second most common sign is when the Velcro straps of the shoes don’t extend far enough across the shoes:

An image of a child wearing a pair of Saucony shoes that are not deep enough for his high instep.

My Top 5 Shoe Brands for Toddlers with Wide Feet and High Insteps

  • New Balance
  • See Kai Run
  • Stride Rite
  • Ikiki
  • Tsukihoshi

Additional Resources for Toddlers with Wide Feet and High Insteps

I have created many different resources over the years for families of toddlers who have wide feet and high insteps. In addition to sneakers, finding the right sandals, boots and dress shoes for wide feet and high insteps is equally important.

Can You Rely on Reddit and Quora for Shoe Recommendations?

While online forums like Reddit and Quora can provide anecdotal advice, they often lack the personalized insight you need for your toddler’s specific foot shape. It’s best to consult a professional shoe fitter who can provide tailored advice and recommend brands that cater to wide feet and high insteps.

The Limitations of Online Forums

Online forums can be a great source of general advice and community support. However, they often lack the specificity needed for individual foot issues. Recommendations from other parents might not be applicable to your child’s unique needs, leading to potential mismatches and discomfort.

Forums often provide varied opinions, which can be confusing and overwhelming. Without professional guidance, it can be difficult to discern which advice is applicable to your situation. This is why consulting a shoe fitter is crucial for making informed decisions about footwear.