Best Winter Boots for Toddlers with High Insteps and Wide Feet – Affordable, Warm, Waterproof, and Insulated!

Do you usually struggle getting your toddler’s boots on and off and have you noticed indentations or red marks on the top part of your toddler’s feet? Having wide feet and high insteps can make standard-sized boots uncomfortable and ill-fitting for your toddler. I am going to show you a list of winter boots for toddlers with high insteps and wide feet that provide extra depth (space) to allow for natural movement and circulation, preventing painful rubbing or squeezing that can lead to blisters or pressure sores.

How Does a Foot with a High Instep Look Like?

A high instep means that the top part of the foot is more elevated, which can make it harder to find shoes that fit well. Take a look at the images below to visualize how a foot with a high instep looks like:

An image of a toddler standing barefoot with a high instep.
An image of a toddler standing barefoot with a high instep.

Signs of High Instep

Some signs that your toddler may have a high instep include:

  • Difficulty getting shoes on and off
  • Red marks or indentations on the top of the foot
  • Complaints of tightness or discomfort

Buying Bigger Boots Is Not the Answer

Buying bigger boots to accommodate your toddler’s wide feet and high instep can make your toddler more prone to stumbles and falls. Some parents keep sizing up until they are able to easily get the boots on and off. Instead of going bigger, let’s go deeper and wider.

Key Features of Winter Boots for Wide Feet and High Insteps

1. Rounded Toe-Boxes: This feature helps prevent your toddler’s toes from overlapping or rubbing against one another or the side of the boots. Roomy toe boxes and enough depth to avoid pressure on the top of the foot. The extra room not only accommodates the foot’s shape but also allows for thick winter socks, ensuring warmth without compromising fit.

The difference in toe-boxes between one of the boots I recommend (right image) and most standard-sized boots.

2. Extra Depth: This feature is really important as it allows your toddler’s feet to sit deeply inside the boots, preventing the top part of the foot (instep), from rubbing against the top part of the boots.

The difference in depth between one of the boots I recommend (right image) and most standard-sized boots.

I also want to point out that all of the winter boots that I recommend are lightweight and flexible at the same time, as heavy and rigid boots can tire little legs quickly. Lightweight construction allows for greater mobility and less fatigue, encouraging active play even in cold weather.

Top Shoe Brands for Toddlers with Wide Feet and High Insteps

There are certain shoe brands that are more consistent when it comes to fitting toddlers with wide feet and high insteps. Some shoe brands even offer winter boots available in wide and extra wide widths. My go-to shoe brands that manufacture boots for wide feet and high insteps include Bogs, See Kai Run, Stride Rite, and Dream Pairs.

Not all boots from these shoe brands are effective when it comes to fitting a wide foot with a high instep. That is the reason why I created a list of the best styles among these brands. One advice I have for toddlers with wide feet and high insteps is choosing boots (and shoes in general) with double velcro straps, as this allows the shoe to open widely to easily slide the child’s feet inside the shoes.

Best Winter Boots for Toddlers with High Insteps and Wide Feet

Most of the boots I recommend have Velcro straps, laces, or adjustable buckles to help customize the fit to accommodate high insteps and wider feet. 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.

1. Atlas by See Kai Run

This is one of the most versatile toddler boots for wide feet and high instep 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. This boot is one of my go-to winter boots for toddlers with high insteps and wide feet.

See Kai Run Atlas boot that is waterproof and insulated.
Waterproof and Insulated See Kai Run Atlas boot in navy for boys.

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 medium, wide, and 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. 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.

See Kai Run Gilman snow boot for kids with wide feet.
See Kai Run Gilman snow boot for kids with wide feet.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers and little kids.
  • Order the boot Gilman WP/in by See Kai Run on Amazon or Zappos.
  • Fits medium and 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.

3. 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. 

See Kai Run insulated and waterproof boot for kids with wide feet.
See Kai Run insulated and waterproof boot for kids with wide feet.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers and little kids.
  • Order the boot style Larkin by See Kai Run on Amazon.
  • Fits medium and 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.

4. Baby Bogs by Bogs

This is an awesome snow boot for wide feet and high instep and works best for toddlers who are learning how to walk or already walking. In fact, this is my go-to snow boot for toddlers with wide feet as it provides a lightweight and flexible design. The boot has a velcro strap on the back that allows for a secure fit and easy on and off.

Waterproof and insulated Baby Bogs boots in black for toddlers.
Waterproof and insulated Baby Bogs boots in pink for toddlers.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers.
  • Order the boot style II Solid by Bogs on Zappos or Amazon.
  • Fits medium and 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.

5. Alpenglow by North Face

These North Face toddler boots for 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 kids with wide feet and high insteps. This is one of my go-to boots for high instep.

Waterproof and insulated North Face boot in grey for toddlers.
Waterproof and insulated North Face boot for toddlers.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers.
  • Order the boot Alpenglow by North Face on Zappos or Amazon.
  • Fits medium and 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.

6. Skye Adaptable by See Kai Run

See Kai Run’s Skye Adaptable toddler winter boots are specifically designed for toddlers with very wide feet. 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.

See Kai Run adaptable boot for kids.
See Kai Run adaptable boot for kids.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style Skye Adapt Waterproof by See Kai Run on Amazon or Zappos.
  • 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.

7. Snow Boot by Dream Pairs

These 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 wide feet.

Pink kids' snow boots with double velcro straps and a side zipper.
Kids' snow boots with double velcro straps and a side zipper.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style Ducko Ankle Winter Snow by Dream Pairs on Amazon.
  • 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.

When trying on boots, have your child wear the type of socks they will be using during winter. This ensures the boots will be comfortable with the added thickness of winter socks. Thick socks can significantly alter the fit of a boot, so it’s important to account for this when choosing a size.

Personalized Boot Recommendations for Your Toddler

Every child’s foot is unique, and sometimes, it’s beneficial to seek personalized advice. As a shoe fitter, I offer tailored recommendations based on the specific needs of your child’s feet. If you’re struggling to find the right fit, don’t hesitate to contact me via email for specific boot recommendations tailored to your toddler’s unique foot shape.

Is It Safe to Buy Your Toddler’s Shoes Online?

I created a virtual shoe fitting service that will help you retrieve your toddler’s exact shoe size from home. In that resource, you will find out whether your toddler has wide or extra wide feet, and confirm whether your toddler has a high instep or not.

Are These Boots Easy to Get On and Off?

Children with chubby feet and high insteps have a hard time slipping into boots that don’t easily open. The good news is that all of the boots I recommended provide oversized openings and open up widely, which makes it easier for toddlers and parents to get the boots on and off.

An image of a See Kai Run boys winter boot with oversized openings for easy on and off.

How Long Are These Boots Going to Last?

Toddlers can outgrow their shoes as fast as 3 1/2 to 4 months, so it’s really important to make sure that you provide a certain amount of growing room. I usually suggest buying seasonal footwear (such as boots), right before the winter season starts, to get the most out of the boots. Please note that most boots are not available in half sizes, so if your toddler is in “between sizes”, always size up.

Should Toddlers Wear Socks with Their Boots?

Even if the boots are lined with fur or other material, I strongly suggest that toddlers wear socks with their boots at all times. Socks help provide a barrier between your toddler’s feet and the boots, preventing foot odors and foot issues such as blisters. You don’t need to invest in a pair of expensive socks, any sock will do as long as they are the correct size. However, if you prefer to provide your toddler with an actual pair of winter socks then that’s okay too.

Warm and breathable winter socks for kids.
An image of parents and their toddler wearing warm and insulated winter socks.

Sneakers for Toddlers with Wide Feet and High Insteps

I have created many resources for toddlers with wide feet and high insteps over the years, but the one that most parents find the most helpful is the one that describes the best everyday sneakers.

Is It Safe to Buy Winter Boots From Walmart and Target?

Yes, as long as the boots fit your toddler’s foot shape correctly. Some families have good luck finding affordable and reliable boots at these stores while others don’t.

I am happy to help you find a different pair of shoes for your toddler so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions. You can ask any questions you might have in the comments section below.