Boys with Achilles Heel Pain – The Best Shoes and Sandals for Boys with Achilles Pain!

Is your son struggling with Achilles heel pain that hasn’t improved, even after wearing supportive shoes? While heel pain is common in growing children, it shouldn’t be ignored. The right footwear can make a world of difference—especially shoes designed with targeted cushioning and support around the heel. As a dedicated children’s shoe fitter, I’ve helped many families find relief through proper footwear.

Achilles heel pain, often known as Achilles tendinitis, is a common condition in children who are active in sports or physical activities. The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, and repetitive stress can lead to inflammation and pain.

What Makes the Shoes I Recommend Effective for Heel Pain?

kids'-shoes-with-targeted-heel-support
Targeted Support Below the Heels (Extra Cushion). Cushioning under the heel absorbs shock and reduces pressure on the Achilles tendon. This cushioning can be particularly beneficial during high-impact activities, such as running or jumping, where the forces transmitted through the heel can be substantial.
children's-shoes-with-heel-support
Firm Heel Counters. A firm heel counter provides stability and helps control excessive foot motion, reducing strain on the Achilles tendon. This feature is essential for maintaining proper alignment and preventing further discomfort. By stabilizing the heel, the shoe can prevent overpronation or supination, which are common contributors to Achilles pain.

Based on my experience, here are some top shoe recommendations for boys dealing with Achilles heel pain in 2025. These selections are based on the latest advancements in footwear technology and a deep understanding of what young athletes need to stay comfortable and pain-free. Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Supportive Shoes for Boys with Achilles Heel Pain

Renowned for their firm heel counters and superior cushioning, these shoes provide the stability and all-day comfort active boys need—while accommodating a variety of foot shapes, including narrow, medium, wide, and extra wide.

1. Shoe Style Fresh Foam 625 by New Balance

These New Balance running shoes for heel pain are perfect for boys who need a reliable all-around shoe, capable of supporting diverse sports engagements.

Red New Balance running shoe for boys.

Key Features

  • Available for big kids
  • Order the shoe Fresh Foam 625 by New Balance on Amazon or the New Balance website
  • Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
  • Fresh Foam midsole cushioning provides an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride
  • Padded collar and tongue
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

2. Shoe Style Cumulus by Asics

These supportive running shoes by Asics feature a cushioned midsole, durable outsole, and breathable upper, making them ideal for boys with Achilles heel pain.

Asics kids Cumulus supportive running shoe for boys.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe Cumulus by Asics on 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

3. Shoe Style Mach by Hoka

These supportive shoes for heel pain provide a plush midsole with superior shock absorption, while the lightweight design ensures ease of movement.

Hoka shoe style Mach for boys and girls.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe Mach by Hoka on Amazon or Zappos
  • Available for big kids
  • Fits children with medium or wide feet
  • Cushioned midsole for shock absorption
  • Durable outsole with excellent traction
  • Ideal for children who need extra support from their shoes
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

4. Shoe Style 237 and 327 by New Balance

These New Balance shoes for heel pain are perfect for boys who want to make a fashion statement while enjoying the benefits of supportive footwear.

New Balance running shoes for boys.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe 237 and 327 by New Balance on Amazon or the New Balance website
  • Fits medium or wide feet
  • Breathable mesh upper
  • Padded collar and tongue
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

5. Shoe Style 1906 by New Balance

These are some of the best New Balance shoes for heel pain and they offer a blend of style and functionality. The shoes are designed for both casual wear and athletic performance, making them versatile options for boys with heel pain.

New Balance kids running shoes.
Supportive New Balance shoe for kids with heel pain.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe 1906 by New Balance on the New Balance website
  • Available in medium and wide widths
  • ABZORB midsole absorbs impact through a combination of cushioning and compression
  • Padded collar and tongue
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

6. Hoka Clifton

These Hoka shoes for boys with plantar fasciitis are a popular choice for their comfort and versatility. They are suitable for everyday wear, from school days to high-impact and sports activities.

Hoka Clifton for kids.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe Clifton by Hoka on Amazon or Zappos
  • Fits children with medium or wide feet
  • Lightweight and breathable
  • Plush cushioning for all-day comfort
  • Supportive outsole
  • Ideal for children who need extra support from their shoes

7. Shoe Style GT-1000 by Asics

These are some of the best running shoes for heel pain as they have infused gel below the heels for extra support and stability.

Supportive red Asics shoes for boys with flat feet.

Key Features

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

8. Shoe Style Kinvara by Saucony

These kids’ shoes for heel pain are lightweight and offer excellent cushioning and flexibility. They are perfect for boys who enjoy running and other high-impact activities.

Saucony teal running shoes for girls.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe Kinvara by Saucony on Amazon
  • Available in medium and wide widths
  • Foam padding placed around the ankle collar and under the tongue
  • Comfort sockliner molds to your foot with padding in the heel for ultimate cushioning at heel-strike
  • Engineered mesh for structure, stretch and enhanced breathability
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

9. Shoe Style 990v6 by New Balance

These are the absolute best shoes for boys with plantar fasciitis and heel pain. 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.
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
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

10. Shoe Style Cross Em Up by Adidas

The Cross Em Up by Adidas are the best basketball shoes for heel pain. The versatility of the shoe makes it suitable for both sports and everyday wear, adding value for parents looking for multi-functional footwear.

Supportive Adidas high top shoe for boys.

Key Features

  • Available for little and big kids
  • Order the shoe 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

Get in Touch for a Personalized Suggestion

Every child is unique, and their foot shape and degree of heel pain can vary. For personalized shoe recommendations, feel free to get in touch with me. I can provide tailored advice based on your child’s specific needs, ensuring they receive the best possible support.

Additional Shoe Recommendations: Supportive Sandals for the Summer

Summer is the perfect season for outdoor adventures, and the right pair of supportive sandals can make all the difference in keeping your child’s feet comfortable and pain-free. If your son struggles with Achilles heel pain, it’s important to choose sandals that offer proper cushioning and heel support. While options are limited, I’ve put together a curated list of the best supportive sandals for boys dealing with this specific issue.

1. Agnes by Memo

These orthopedic sandals for heel pain offer orthopedic support with their anatomically shaped footbed, designed specifically for children with heel pain. These sandals provide excellent heel support.

Orthopedic sandal with a stable base of support.

Key Features

  • Order the sandal Michael Corrective Orthopedic by Memo on Amazon
  • Fits medium and wide feet (fits high insteps)
  • 100% leather made
  • Ability to adjust the Hook and Loop strap length to the different foot width
  • I suggest that you get this sandal a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

2. Seaturtle by Kamik

These open-toe sandals provide a cushioned footbed and adjustable straps. Their lightweight and flexible design makes it ideal for active boys with heel pain, while the durable outsole ensures long-lasting wear.

Sandal with three adjustable straps for kids who wear AFOs or SMOs.

Key Features

  • Order the sandal Wander by Kamik on Amazon or Zappos
  • Fits medium and wide feet (fits high insteps)
  • Triple velcro straps for easy on and off
  • Quick drying moisture wicking lining
  • Vegan-friendly
  • I suggest that you get this sandal a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

3. Adventurous Light-Weight by Dream Pairs

The open design and cushioned insole provide maximum comfort, allowing for all-day wear without discomfort. Parents praise these sandals for their affordability and durability, making them a practical choice for boys with heel pain.

Red sandals with triple Velcro straps for boys who wear AFOs or SMOs.

Key Features

  • Order the sandal Adventurous Light-Weight by Dream Pairs on Amazon
  • Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet
  • Triple hook-and-loop closure system for easy on and off
  • Excellent grip
  • Lightweight MD footbed is cushioned for all-day comfort
  • I suggest that you get this sandal a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

4. Newport by Keen

These Keen sandals for kids with heel pain provide a supportive footbeds and adjustable straps. Its durable construction and reliable traction make it suitable for various activities, from hiking to beach outings. This is one of my go-to sandals for boys with heel pain.

Supportive-navy-blue-Keen-sandal-for-kids

Key Features

  • Order the sandal Newport H2 by Keen on Zappos or Amazon
  • Fits medium and wide feet
  • This internal support mechanism is anatomically engineered to provide excellent arch support
  • Machine washable
  • I suggest that you get this sandal a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

5. Hurricane by Teva

These open toe sandals with arch and heel support for kids with foot pain feature a lightweight, water-friendly design with an adjustable fit.

Supportive red Teva sandal for kids with wide feet.

Key Features

  • Order the sandal Hurricane by Teva on Zappos or Amazon
  • Fits medium and wide feet
  • This internal support mechanism is anatomically engineered to provide excellent arch support
  • Machine washable
  • I suggest that you get this sandal a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

How to Retrieve Your Child’s Exact Foot Length and Shape

Ordering the correct shoe size is essential for preventing pain caused by ill-fitting shoes. I created a virtual shoe fitting service that makes it easy to measure your child’s foot size from the comfort of your home. This tool helps you identify whether your child has narrow, medium, wide, or extra wide feet—and whether they have a high instep, which can be just as important for finding the right fit.

When it comes to your child’s foot health, don’t take the “wait and see” approach. Ignoring early signs of foot pain can allow minor issues to develop into more serious conditions. Taking action early can make a big difference in your child’s comfort, mobility, and long-term well-being.