Boots for Kids with Sensory Issues – Comfortable, Lightweight and Flexible!
Does your child have sensory issues and prefers to wear boots instead of sneakers? Maybe you already found a pair of good-fitting sneakers and now you are trying to find a pair of winter boots for the cold weather. Boots tend to be heavier and stiffer than sneakers, but I will show you which boots might feel more comfortable for your child. These boots provide a similar structure to a sneaker, in the sense that they are lightweight and flexible at the same time. They will also properly support your child’s feet so your child can wear these boots for long periods of time.
When looking for shoes for a child with sensory issues it’s all about finding the most comfortable shoe. I usually look for shoes with seam-free fabric interiors that have padded elastic collars with heel tabs to help adjust the shoe around the heels.
My Experience Fitting Children’s Shoes
If you have read any of my previous articles, you are probably aware that I have been fitting children’s shoes for many years. At the shoe store where I work, I have helped several children with sensory issues find the perfect pair of shoes for their feet, and I am confident I will be able to help your child as well.
What Makes the Boots that I Recommend Ideal for Kids with Sensory Issues?
Most children’s boots are too heavy and stiff. The boots that I recommend are ultra-lightweight and provide exceptional comfort. The boots provide a padded tongue and collar to add a layer of comfort, and breathable uppers to allow your child’s feet to breathe.
Children with sensory issues who prefer to wear boots instead of any other type of footwear probably prefer their shoes to provide a “looser” feel.
Best Boots for Kids with Sensory Issues – Seam-Free- Fabrics
Take a look at the description below each boot to find out the features that it provides, the type of closure, and the size you should order to allow for the correct amount of growing room. I usually recommend to “desensitize” the child’s feet before putting the boots on, which means warming up your child’s feet with a massage.
- Order the shoe style 360 by Stride Rite on Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet (accommodates high insteps)
- Waterproof membrane keeps kids’ feet dry while remaining breathable to quick-dry sweat
- Velcro closure
- Machine washable
- Removable insoles
- I suggest that you get this boot the same size as your child’s foot size (boot fits long)
- Order the shoe style Gilman by See Kai Run on Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet (accommodates high insteps)
- Mesh-lined sockliner keeps little feet comfortable all day long
- Double velcro straps to provide your child with better control over how tight/loose she wants the boots to feel
- Round toe box allows for better balance, comfort, and foot health
- Ultra-lightweight outsole
- I suggest that you get this boot a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style 7510 Tokyo by Tsukihoshi on Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet (accommodates high insteps)
- Waterproof membrane keeps kids’ feet dry while remaining breathable in to quick-dry sweat
- Velcro closure
- Round toe box allows for better balance, comfort, and foot health
- Ultra-lightweight outsole
- Machine washable
- Removable insoles
- Breathable, latex-free textile lining keeps the foot cool and comfortable
- I suggest that you get this boot the same size as your child’s foot size (boot fits long)
- Order the shoe style 7510 Tokyo by Tsukihoshi on Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet (accommodates high insteps)
- Velcro closure
- Waterproof membrane keeps kids’ feet dry while remaining breathable to quick-dry sweat
- Round toe box allows for better balance, comfort, and foot health
- Ultra-lightweight outsole
- Machine washable
- Removable insoles
- Breathable, latex-free textile lining keeps the foot cool and comfortable
- I suggest that you get this boot the same size as your child’s foot size (boot fits long)
- Order the shoe style Atlas II WP/IN by See Kai Run on Zappos
- Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet (accommodates high insteps)
- This boot 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)
- I suggest that you get this boot a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Atlas II WP/IN by See Kai Run on Zappos
- Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet (accommodates high insteps)
- This boot 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)
- I suggest that you get this boot a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Tokyo by Tsukihoshi on Zappos
- Fits medium and wide feet (accommodates high insteps)
- Waterproof membrane keeps kids’ feet dry while remaining breathable to quick-dry sweat
- Velcro closure
- Round toe box allows for better balance, comfort, and foot health
- Ultra-lightweight outsole
- Machine washable
- Removable insoles
- Breathable, latex-free textile lining keeps the foot cool and comfortable
- I suggest that you get this boot the same size as your child’s foot size (boot fits long)
- Order the shoe style Dane by See Kai Run on Zappos
- Fits medium and wide feet (accommodates high insteps)
- Ultra-lightweight outsole
- Breathable uppers on a flexible outsole that allow for maximum mobility and promote healthy foot development
- Padded tongue and collar add a layer of comfort
- Double velcro straps to provide your child with better control over how tight/loose he wants the boots to feel
- Machine washable
- Removable insoles
- I suggest that you get this boot a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Gilman by See Kai Run on Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet (accommodates high insteps)
- Mesh-lined sockliner keeps little feet comfortable all day long
- Double velcro straps to provide your child with better control over how tight/loose she wants the boots to feel
- Round toe box allows for better balance, comfort, and foot health
- Ultra-lightweight outsole
- I suggest that you get this boot a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style 7519 IGLOO by Tsukihoshi on Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet (accommodates high insteps)
- Waterproof membrane keeps kids’ feet dry while remaining breathable to quick-dry sweat
- Double velcro straps to provide your child with better control over how tight/loose she wants the boots to feel
- Round toe box allows for better balance, comfort, and foot health
- Ultra-lightweight outsole
- Machine washable
- Removable insoles
- Breathable, latex-free textile lining keeps the foot cool and comfortable
- I suggest that you get this boot the same size as your child’s foot size (boot fits long)
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The Importance of Ordering the Correct Shoe Size
I have noticed that some children with sensory issues prefer to wear their shoes on the “tighter side” while others prefer their shoes to feel on the “looser side”. To order the correct shoe size online, you must know what your child’s foot size is to begin with.
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, or extra wide feet. I also be able to determine whether your child has a high instep or not.
Does Your Child’s School Require Everyday Sneakers Instead of Boots?
If you must provide your child with a pair of sneakers instead of boots, I suggest that you take a look at a different resource that describes the best everyday sneakers for children with sensory issues.
Get a Personalized Shoe Recommendation
Children’s shoe needs can vary depending on their age, activity level, and any specific foot conditions they may have. If you have any questions or need any further assistance, you can also contact me via email and I will get back to you as soon as possible. I am happy to help you find a different pair of shoes for your child so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.
What Role Do Socks Play for Children with Sensory Issues?
Socks play a pretty important role. If the socks feel uncomfortable, your kids’ shoes will also feel uncomfortable. I have found that seamless socks are a must for children with sensory issues. It is important to choose a fabric that feels soft on your kid’s feet and that doesn’t constrict toe movement.
- Order these socks made by Jefferies on Amazon
- Sensory friendly smooth toe seam provides less irritation and bulk for sensitive toes and feet
- Half cushion foot for added support and impact protection
- Ribbed leg support stays up on the leg and provides added support
- Cotton rich blend provides optimal softness and durability
- Order these socks made by SmartKnit on Amazon
- Completely free of seams, these socks are knit like a caterpillar spins its cocoon from the toe up, eliminating all lumps and bumps and providing a comfortable fuss-free fit
- “No heel” design allows young children to put on their socks with confidence and keeps them from outgrowing their socks so quickly
- The stretchy yarns result in a form-fitting design that eliminates wrinkling and bunching at the toes
- Order these socks made by SmartKnit on Amazon
- Completely free of seams, these socks are knit like a caterpillar spins its cocoon from the toe up, eliminating all lumps and bumps and providing a comfortable fuss-free fit
- “No heel” design allows young children to put on their socks with confidence and keeps them from outgrowing their socks so quickly
- The stretchy yarns result in a form-fitting design that eliminates wrinkling and bunching at the toes
- Order these socks made by Jefferies on Amazon
- Sensory friendly smooth toe seam provides less irritation and bulk for sensitive toes and feet
- Soft and durable cotton rich blend provides optimal comfort and long lasting wear
Help me make this resource even better by adding shoe recommendations that work well for your child with sensory issues!
