Choosing the Best Extra Wide Toddler Shoes – Extra Deep for Easy On and Off

November 9, 2024 Extra Wide Shoes Juan Valenzuela 0 - Comments

Have you noticed imprints or red marks on the top part of your toddler’s feet and you always struggle getting the shoes on and off? Fitting your toddler in shoes that are too narrow can lead to misalignment of the bones and joints in the feet, causing conditions such as bunions or hammertoes. By the way, don’t make the common mistake of buying bigger shoes to accommodate your toddler’s extra wide feet as that can cause instability, increasing the risk of falls and injuries. As a shoe fitter, I aim to help families find the perfect pair of shoes for their children, no matter how wide their feet are.

Don’t Buy Bigger Shoes – Do This Instead!

Instead of buying bigger shoes to fit your toddler’s extra wide feet, buy deeper shoes available in extra wide widths. Deep shoes allow more room for the foot, reducing pressure on the top of the foot and providing ample space for growth. This extra space is not just about comfort; it also aids in the proper alignment of the foot, which is crucial for developing good posture and balance.

A pair of See Kai Run shoes with extra depth for babies with high insteps vs Nike shoes that won't work well for babies with high insteps.
The difference in depth between a Nike toddler shoe (left image) and See Kai Run shoe (right image).

The deeper the shoes are, the more comfortable your toddler will feel, and you will prevent the top part of your toddler’s feet (instep) from getting red marks and indentations.

What is the Instep of the Foot?

The instep is the top part of the foot, or in other words, the total amount of volume that needs to be fitted inside the shoes. Below you can find an image of a toddler’s foot with a high instep:

Child with a high instep.
An image of a toddler’s foot with a high instep standing barefoot.

Let’s take a look at another example for better visualization purposes. The image below shows a different toddler standing barefoot with extra wide feet and a high instep. In this case, there is a lot of extra foot volume that we need to fit inside of the shoes.

An extra wide toddler's foot with high insteps.
An image of a toddler’s foot with extra wide feet and a high instep.

The Importance of Finding Shoes with Round Toe-Boxes

A round toe box is crucial for preventing blisters and allowing ample room for toe movement. This design mimics the natural shape of the foot, preventing pinching and discomfort.

Difference between a New Balance shoe with a round toe-box and a Nike shoe with a pointier toe-box.
The difference in toe-boxes between a New Balance toddler shoe (right image) and a Nike shoe (left image).

Round toe boxes also provide space for the toes to develop without restriction, which is vital during the early stages of learning to walk. This feature reduces the likelihood of toenail issues and helps in maintaining proper foot alignment.

Another Awesome Shoe Feature: Oversized Openings

Shoes with oversized openings make it easier to get a toddler’s foot in and out of the shoe. This feature is particularly beneficial for parents who struggle with getting shoes on their child’s feet.

A pair of See Kai Run sneakers with oversized openings for easy on and off.
An image of a See Kai Run shoe with double velcro straps that opens up widely for easy on and off.

Generic vs. Popular Shoe Brands for Extra Wide Feet

Generic brands can offer affordable options with the necessary features for wide feet. They often provide a cost-effective solution without compromising on essential features like fit and comfort. However, most shoes made by generic brands are not available in wide or extra wide widths.

Popular brands often invest in research and design, providing innovations that might benefit your toddler in the long run. These brands may offer shoes with advanced cushioning technologies or unique materials that enhance foot health.

Top Shoe Brands for Toddlers with Extra Wide Feet

Here are some of the most trusted shoe brands that have consistently met the needs of wide-footed toddlers and their parents.

New Balance Extra Wide Toddler Shoes

Shoe fitter checks the structure of a New Balance shoe for toddlers learning how to walk.

New Balance is my go-to shoe brand for toddlers with extra wide feet. They have a large list of extra wide options that provide the perfect balance of cushioning and stability. The shoes are known for their durability and support, making them a great choice for active toddlers.

Stride Rite Extra Wide Toddler Shoes

How to choose the correct pair of shoes for your child.

Stride Rite is well-known for its commitment to quality and fit. Their extra wide toddler shoes are designed with the needs of growing feet in mind, offering a variety of styles that cater to different foot shapes.

Other Notable Brands

  • See Kai Run: Known for their flexible and stylish designs, See Kai Run offers extra wide options in a variety of colors and patterns. Their shoes are designed to promote healthy foot development and while they don’t come labeled as wide or extra wide, they fit naturally wide.
  • Pediped: This brand emphasizes healthy foot development with shoes that mimic the natural shape of a child’s foot. Pediped’s shoes are often recommended by pediatricians for their emphasis on comfort and support.

I have made things easier for you and compiled a list of the best extra wide toddler shoes from the brands I mentioned above. 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.

My Top 10 Extra Wide Toddler Shoe Recommendations

As a shoe fitter, I’m passionate about helping families find the right shoes for their children, and I hope this guide assists you in making an informed decision. Investing time in selecting the right shoes today can save your toddler from potential foot issues down the road.

Many of the shoes I recommend come in multiple colors. Click on the image of the style you like to see all the color options available.

1. Shoe style 574 by New Balance

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 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. Shoe style Robyne by See Kai Run

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. Shoe style Holly Mary Jane by Stride Rite

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 Mary Jane shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

4. Ten Little

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.

5. Shoe style KAZ by Tsukihoshi

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).

6. IKIKI

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.

7. Shoe style 990v6 by New Balance

New Balance 990v6 toddler shoe in black and grey and with velcro closure.

Key Features:

  • Order the shoe style 990v6 New Balance on Amazon or the New Balance website.
  • Available in extra wide widths.
  • Leather upper.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

8. Shoe Style Rave Run v2 by New Balance

New Balance Rave Run v2 in bright pink for girls.
New Balance Rave Run v2 in black for toddler boys.

Key Features:

  • Order the shoe style Rave Run by New Balance on Zappos or the New Balance website.
  • Available in extra wide widths.
  • Breathable mesh upper.
  • Padded collar and tongue.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

9. Shoe Style M2P Journey 3.0 Adapt by Stride Rite

Stride Rite M2P Journey 3.0 Adapt in pink for toddler girls.
Stride Rite M2P Journey 3.0 Adapt in grey for toddler boys.

Key Features:

  • Order the shoe style M2P Journey Adapt by Stride Rite on Zappos or Amazon.
  • Available in extra wide widths.
  • APMA approved.
  • Leather upper.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

10. Shoe Style Fresh Foam Arishi v4 by New Balance

New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi v4 in light blue for toddler girls.
New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi v4 in grey for toddler boys.

Key Features:

  • Order the shoe style Fresh Foam Arisihi by New Balance on Amazon or the New Balance website.
  • Available in extra wide widths.
  • No-sew tip for added durability where kids need it most.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

All of the shoes I recommend have velcro straps as they are ideal to allow your toddler to be independent and you can also customize the fit.

Find Out Exactly What Shoe Size You Should Order Online

I created a virtual shoe fitting service that will help you retrieve your toddler’s shoe size from home. By the way, I reviewed the return policy from all of the websites that sell the shoes I recommend above (New Balance, Amazon, and Zappos) and they all have free returns or exchanges. This is particularly important when buying online, where you cannot try the shoes on before purchase.

Reach Out for a Personalized Shoe Recommendation

The right shoe can vary from child to child, so it’s important to consider your toddler’s specific foot shape and needs when making a choice. If you have any questions or need a more personalized recommendation, you can also contact me via email and I will be able to recommend specific shoes tailored to your toddler’s exact foot shape.

Are New Balance Extra Wide Shoes the Best Choice?

I have fitted and tested several different shoe brands, and when it comes to fitting toddlers with extra wide feet nothing compares to the levels of depth and round toe-boxes that New Balance shoes provide. Their shoes are available in extra wide widths and provide the roundest toe-boxes. However, I provided you with other shoe brand alternatives in case you want to try a different something different.

Signs Your Toddler Needs Extra Wide Shoes

  • Red Marks or Indentations: After wearing shoes, check for any red marks or indentations on your toddler’s feet, which indicate that the shoes may be too tight. These marks are often a sign that the shoe is compressing the foot, which can lead to discomfort and restrict natural movement.
Child with imprints on the top part of his foot from wearing shoes that were fitted too narrow.
  • Complaints of Discomfort: If your child frequently complains about their shoes or seems reluctant to wear them, it could be a sign that they need extra width. Listen to your child’s feedback; their reluctance to wear certain shoes may be their way of communicating discomfort or pain.
Find out the reason why your toddler keeps taking his or her shoes off.
  • Frequent Tripping or Falling: Shoes that are too tight can affect your toddler’s balance, leading to frequent tripping or falls. Observing how your child walks and plays in their shoes can provide insight into whether they are hindering natural movement.
Child with stability issues keeps falling due to wearing shoes that are too big.

Wide Toe-Boxes Help Prevent Blisters and Corns

You have no idea how many toddlers develop blisters from wearing shoes that are too narrow at the toe-box. The most common place they get blisters is on their small toe (pinky toe):

Child developed a blister on his small toe from wearing narrow shoes.

Whether shopping in-store or online, prioritize fit and quality over style to make the best choice for your toddler. If you have any questions you can use the comments section below and I will get back to you as soon as possible.