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

October 6, 2023 Boots Juan Pablo Valenzuela 2 - Comments

Do you usually struggle getting your toddler’s shoes on and off and have you noticed indentations or red marks on the top part of your toddler’s feet? Are you having a hard time finding a pair of winter boots that are wide and deep enough to accommodate your toddler’s wide feet and high instep? I am going to show you a list of the best winter boots for toddlers with high insteps and wide feet based on my 10+ years of shoe fitting experience.

At the shoe store where I work, we fit children in sneakers, dress shoes, sports shoes, and seasonal footwear such as sandals and boots. Over the years I became familiar with which boots fit better than others and I can also guide you on how to order the correct shoe size online.

Pro Tip: If you’re pressed for time and want to jump directly to the selection of the best winter boots for toddlers with high insteps and wide feet , you can click here.

How Does a Foot with a High Instep Look Like?

The instep is the top part of the foot, and when it’s high, it makes it a lot more challenging to find shoes that fit. Take a look at the images below to visualize how a foot with a high instep look like:

Winter Boots for Kids with Wide Feet and High Insteps – 2 Key Features

The boots I am going to show you in this article provide two features that makes them ideal for toddlers with wide feet and high insteps:

1️⃣ Rounded Toe-Boxes: This feature helps prevent your toddler’s toes from overlapping or rubbing against one another or the side of the boots. Below you can find two toddler boots that are the same size in length, but the boot on the right is available in wide and extra wide widths. Do you notice how the boot on the right has a rounded toe-box compared to the boot on the left? I will provide you with a link to this specific boot shortly.

2️⃣ 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. For example, take a look at the image below that shows two boots that are the same size in length but provide different levels of depth. Do you notice how the boot on the right is a lot deeper compared to the boot on the left?

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 make it harder for toddlers to walk around.

My Favorite Shoe Brands for Toddlers Who Have 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. Here is a list of my go-to shoe brands that manufacture boots for wide feet and high insteps:

➡️ Stride Rite

➡️ Bogs

➡️ See Kai Run

➡️ New Balance

➡️ Kamik

➡️ Keen

➡️ Tsukihoshi

➡️ Merrell

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.

All of the winter boots recommended below will help keep your toddler’s feet warm and dry, as they are all insulated and waterproof.

Best Winter Boots for Toddlers with High Insteps and Wide Feet

Take your time to explore the boot options as shown below. Make sure that you click on the specific model that you like as the boot 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.

  • Shoe style SRT Rover by Stride Rite
  • Available in medium and wide widths
  • Constructed with a breathable textile lining and an OrthoLite® comfort foam insoles provide moisture transport, antimicrobial function, and long-term cushioning
  • Water-friendly
  • Double hook-and-loop closure for easy on and off 
  • Order this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
  • Shoe style Snowcutie by Kamik
  • Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet
  • This boot can be used in cold, rain, and snowy days
  • Fixed foam insulation
  • Waterproof DriDefense membrane satin nylon upper with PU overlays.
  • Removable insoles
  • Adjustable dual hook-and-loop straps
  • Order this boot a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
  • Shoe style Atlas II WP/IN by See Kai Run
  • Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet (accommodates high insteps)
  • This is a hiking boot/snow boot that can be worn for long periods of time
  • Insulated so it can be worn in the snow
  • Waterproof
  • Double velcro closure
  • Awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)
  • Order this boot a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
  • Shoe style Atlas II WP/IN by See Kai Run
  • Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet (accommodates high insteps)
  • This is a hiking boot/snow boot that can be worn for long periods of time
  • Insulated so it can be worn in the snow
  • Waterproof
  • Double velcro closure
  • Awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)
  • Order this boot a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
  • Shoe style Kootenay 4 Mid by Keen
  • Fits medium and wide feet (accommodates high insteps)
  • This boot can be used on cold and rainy days
  • 100G insulation helps keep your kids’ feet warm in temperatures down to -4° F / -20° C, but still offers breathability
  • High-traction rubber outsole
  • Order this boot a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
  • Shoe style Gilman WP/in by See Kai Run
  • Fits medium and wide feet (accommodates high insteps)
  • This boot can be used on cold, rainy, and snowy days
  • Ultra-lightweight and flexible with rubber toe cap for added protection and reflective heel for visibility
  • Keep water and debris out with seam-sealed, waterproof membrane construction
  • Deep lugged TPR rubber outsole built for maximum grip on wet and snowy terrain
  • Order this boot a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
  • Shoe style Classic Snow Boot by The North Face
  • Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet (accommodates high insteps)
  • This boot can be used in cold days, rain, and snow
  • Waterproof suede upper and seam-sealed design.
  • Cushioned footbed
  • Order this boot a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
  • Shoe style Tokyo by Tsukihoshi
  • Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet (accommodates high insteps)
  • This boot can be used in the cold and rain, but not in the snow
  • Water-friendly
  • Hook-and-loop closure and heel tab for easy on and off.
  • Generous forefoot construction allows toes to splay naturally for superior balance and comfort
  • Order this boot half a size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
  • Shoe style Skye Adapt Waterproof by See Kai Run
  • Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet
  • This boot can be used in cold, rain, and snowy days
  • Waterproof-treated textile and synthetic upper
  • Adjustable extra-long straps fit around AFOS
  • Rubber toe cap adds durability
  • Thermoplastic rubber outsole with a rugged tread pattern built for maximum grip on wet and snowy terrain
  • Order this boot a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
  • Shoe style Skye Adapt Waterproof by See Kai Run
  • Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet
  • This boot can be used in cold, rain, and snowy days
  • Waterproof-treated textile and synthetic upper
  • Adjustable extra-long straps fit around AFOS
  • Rubber toe cap adds durability
  • Thermoplastic rubber outsole with a rugged tread pattern built for maximum grip on wet and snowy terrain
  • Order this boot a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
  • Shoe style 650v1 by New Balance
  • Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet (accommodates high insteps)
  • This boot can be used in the cold and rain, but not in the snow
  • Leather upper
  • Waterproof
  • WARM insulation helps keep feet warm in temperatures down to -4F / -20C, but still allows feet to breathe
  • Removable PU insole for long-lasting comfort
  • Fleece lining for warmth
  • Order this boot a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
  • Shoe style Boot V1 by New Balance
  • Available in wide and extra wide widths
  • This boot can be used in the cold and rain, but not in the snow
  • Hook-and-loop closure provides a secure fit that’s quick and easy to adjust
  • Features a shearling cuff and warm lining
  • Order this boot half a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
  • Shoe style Knotch Chukka by Keen
  • Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet (accommodates high insteps)
  • This boot can be used in cold, rain, and snowy days
  • Waterproof
  • KEEN.Warm® insulation rating of -40°F/-40°C
  • Double velcro closure for easy on and off
  • Removable PU insole for long-lasting comfort
  • Fleece lining for warmth
  • Order this boot half a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
  • Shoe style Soft Motion by Stride Rite
  • Available in medium and wide widths
  • This is a casual boot that can be worn in cold days
  • Not waterproof and not water friendly
  • Seamless construction cradle their natural shape
  • Double velcro closure for easy on and off
  • Easy on-and-off with an oversized opening and adjustable double hook and loop closure
  • Flex grooves in outsole for maximum flexibility
  • APMA approved
  • Order this boot a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
  • Shoe style SRT Vincent by Stride Rite
  • Available in medium and wide widths
  • This boot can be used in the cold and rain, but not in the snow
  • Not waterproof and not water friendly
  • Memory foam footbed delivers enhanced comfort
  • Fleece lining for warmth
  • Order this boot a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
  • Shoe style Larkin Waterproof by See Kai Run
  • Available in medium and wide widths
  • This boot can be used on cold, rainy, and snowy days
  • Water-repellent synthetic and mesh upper
  • Comfort Collar helps prevent irritation and hugs the ankle for a superior fit 
  • Primaloft insulation for warmth 
  • Lightweight EVA midsole provides flexible cushioning and absorbs impact 
  • Excellent traction
  • Order this boot half a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
  • Shoe style Baby Bogs II Solid by Bogs
  • Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet (accommodates high insteps)
  • This boot can be used in cold, rain, and snowy days
  • Waterproof
  • Made with 3mm Neo-Tech insulation to keep warm in cold weather. Comfort rated 14 degrees F/-10
  • Hook/loop strap and sturdy handles makes these winter boots easy for little kids to get on and off
  • Excellent traction
  • Order this boot a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
  • Shoe style Classic Snow Boot by Bogs
  • Fits medium and wide feet (accommodates high insteps)
  • This boot can be used on cold, rainy, and snowy days
  • Waterproof
  • Made with 3mm Neo-Tech insulation to keep warm in cold weather. Comfort rated 14 degrees F/-10
  • Sturdy handles make these winter boots easy for little kids to get on and off
  • Excellent traction
  • Order this boot a whole size larger than your baby’s current foot size
  • Shoe style Baker WP/in by See Kai Run
  • Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet
  • This boot can be used in cold, rain, and snowy days
  • Waterproof
  • Seam-sealed, waterproof membrane construction, resistant to 10,000mb pressure/4 hours
  • Awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)
  • Order this boot a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
  • Shoe style 650v1 by New Balance
  • Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet
  • This boot can be used in cold, rain, and snowy days
  • Waterproof
  • Seam-sealed, waterproof membrane construction, resistant to 10,000mb pressure/4 hours
  • Awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)
  • Order this boot a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
  • Shoe style Puffer Snow by Merrell
  • Fits medium and wide feet
  • This boot can be used in cold, rain, and snowy days
  • Seam sealed waterpoof construction to keep feet dry
  • 200g insulation on the footbed
  • Removable insoles
  • Order this boot a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
  • Shoe style Bare Steps Ridge Hiker by Merrell
  • Available in medium and wide widths
  • This boot can be used in the cold and rain, but not in the snow
  • Water-friendly
  • Wide toe-box and an outsole with rounded edges
  • Flex grooves in outsole for maximum flexibility
  • Reinforced protected toe
  • Order this boot half a size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
  • Shoe style Bare Steps Ridge Hiker by Merrell
  • Available in medium and wide widths
  • This boot can be used in the cold and rain, but not in the snow
  • Water-friendly
  • Wide toe-box and an outsole with rounded edges
  • Flex grooves in outsole for maximum flexibility
  • Reinforced protected toe
  • Velcro closure
  • Order this boot a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size

Are These Boots Easy to Get On and Off? – Oversized Openings!

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 children and parents to get the boots on and off.

One advice I have for children 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.

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? – Keep Your Toddler’s Feet Healthy

Even if the boots are lined with fur or other material, I strongly suggest that your toddler wear socks with his or her 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.

Is It Safe to Buy Your Toddler’s Shoes Online? – How to Order the Correct Shoe Size

The best way to figure out your toddler’s exact foot length and shape is to have his or her feet properly measured and fitted for shoes at your local specialized children’s shoe store.

If after looking at that directory you can’t find a specialized children’s shoe store in your area, take a look at an article that I created that describes the simplest, yet most effective way to figure out your toddler’s shoe size from home.

What Are the Best Sneakers for Toddlers with Wide Feet and High Insteps?

I have created many resources for toddlers with high insteps over the years, but if you need a pair of everyday sneakers to accommodate your toddler’s high instep I recommend this specific one.

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 this store while others don’t.

Do You Need Personalized Shoe Recommendations? – Contact Us

Toddler’s shoe needs can vary depending on any specific foot conditions they may have. Maybe you are looking for a more affordable winter boot or a style that comes in a specific color. If you have any questions or need any further assistance, you can also contact us via email and we will get back to you as soon as possible. We are 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 also ask any questions you might have in the comments section below.