These models are selected based on the structural criteria outlined in Pediatric Shoe Guide. Each shoe demonstrates key features such as rearfoot stability, structured support, secure closure, and appropriate depth where applicable.
Below each model, you’ll find condition indicators to help guide decision-making. Final recommendations should always consider the child’s individual presentation and fit. This page is a companion resource to Pediatric Shoe Guide and is periodically updated as models change.
New Balance 990v6
Highly structured lace-up model with strong rearfoot control and a stable outsole. Appropriate when greater motion control and durability are required.
Widths: Medium, Wide, Extra Wide
Closure: Lace (Velcro available in select versions)
Fit Guidance: Order approximately ½ size longer for growing room
May Be Appropriate For:
✔ Flat Feet / Excessive Pronation (Moderate-Strong)
✔ Low Muscle Tone
✔ Knock Knees
✔ In-Toeing
✔ Toe-Walking
✔ Heel Pain
✔ Orthotic Use
This shoe can be found at your local specialized children’s shoe store, New Balance stores, and many shoe retailers as it’s one of the most consistent New Balance shoes that has been around for years.
View Model At:
New Balance website | Amazon | Zappos
Memo Gabi
Orthopedic-style shoe designed to provide enhanced rearfoot stability and midfoot containment. Appropriate for children requiring higher levels of structural support.
Widths: Medium, Wide
Closure: Velcro
Fit Guidance: Order approximately ½ size longer for growing room
May Be Appropriate For:
✔ Flat Feet / Excessive Pronation (Moderate-Strong)
✔ Low Muscle Tone
✔ Knock Knees
✔ In-Toeing
✔ Toe-Walking
✔ Heel Pain
✔ Orthotic Use
This orthopedic shoe can only be found online on Amazon or the official website.
View Model At:
Amazon
Stride Rite SRT Elliot (High-Top)
Structured high-top design offering additional ankle containment while maintaining forefoot flexibility. Useful for toddlers needing moderate support with added stability.
Widths: Medium, Wide, Extra Wide
Closure: Lace
Fit Guidance: Order approximately 1 size longer for growing room
May Be Appropriate For:
✔ Flat Feet / Excessive Pronation (Mild–Moderate)
✔ Low Muscle Tone
✔ Toe Walking (Mild presentations)
✔ In-Toeing
Timberland Tracks
Rugged, firm-based model offering moderate structural control and durability. Slightly heavier construction may provide added stability for active children.
Widths: Medium, Wide
Closure: Velcro
Fit Guidance: Order approximately 1 size longer for growing room
May Be Appropriate For:
✔ Flat Feet / Excessive Pronation (Mild–Moderate)
✔ Toe Walking (Mild presentations)
✔ In-Toeing
View Model At:
Amazon
Saucony Cohesion
Lightweight athletic model with a stable heel counter and moderate support. Suitable for children requiring structure in a lighter daily-wear shoe.
Widths: Medium, Wide
Closure: Velcro or Lace
Fit Guidance: Order approximately 1 size longer for growing room
May Be Appropriate For:
✔ Flat Feet / Excessive Pronation (Mild–Moderate)
✔ Low Muscle Tone
✔ In-Toeing
New Balance 1906 Lace
Cushioned athletic option with moderate structural support and stable heel design. Appropriate for children who benefit from a balance of comfort and control.
Widths: Medium, Wide
Closure: Lace
Fit Guidance: Order approximately 1 size longer for growing room
May Be Appropriate For:
✔ Flat Feet / Excessive Pronation (Moderate-Strong)
✔ Low Muscle Tone
✔ In-Toeing
✔ Heel Pain
✔ Orthotic Use
View Model At:
New Balance | Amazon
Puma Rebound Layup (High-Top)
High-top model providing ankle containment with moderate structural support. May be appropriate for older children needing added stability in a casual style.
Widths: Medium, Wide
Closure: Lace
Fit Guidance: Order approximately 1 size longer for growing room
May Be Appropriate For:
✔ Flat Feet / Excessive Pronation (Mild)
✔ Toe Walking (Mild presentations)
✔ In-Toeing
✔ Heel Pain
New Balance 574
Classic everyday model offering moderate structure with a stable heel counter and firm outsole. Appropriate for children who need reliable daily support in a lighter, more flexible silhouette.
Widths: Medium, Wide, Extra Wide
Closure: Lace or Velcro (varies by version)
Fit Guidance: Order approximately ½ size longer for growing room
May Be Appropriate For:
✔ Flat Feet / Excessive Pronation (Mild–Moderate)
✔ Low Muscle Tone
✔ In-Toeing
✔ Heel Pain
✔ Orthotic Use (for low-profile orthotics)
This model is widely available and has remained one of New Balance’s most consistent and accessible structured options for children.
View Model At:
New Balance website | Amazon
ASICS Contend
Supportive lace-up model with a secure heel and narrower fit profile. Appropriate for children with narrow feet requiring structured containment.
Widths: Narrow, Medium
Closure: Lace or Velcro
Fit Guidance: Order approximately 1 size longer for growing room
May Be Appropriate For:
✔ Flat Feet / Excessive Pronation (Mild-Moderate)
✔ In-Toeing
✔ Heel Pain
Adidas Hoops Mid 3.0
Mid-top lifestyle model providing added ankle containment with a firm, stable base. Appropriate for children who benefit from additional rearfoot and ankle stability in a more casual high-top style.
Widths: Medium
Closure: Lace or Velcro (varies by version)
Fit Guidance: Order approximately 1 size longer for growing room
May Be Appropriate For:
✔ Flat Feet / Excessive Pronation (Mild)
✔ Toe Walking (Mild presentations)
✔ In-Toeing
✔ Heel Pain
This model is widely available through major retailers and may be useful when additional ankle containment is desired without moving to a medical-grade shoe.
View Model At:
Amazon | Adidas | Zappos
Need Additional Guidance?
Every child’s foot shape, gait pattern, and activity level are different. While the models listed above meet the structural criteria outlined in Pediatric Shoe Guide, final recommendations should always be based on the child’s individual presentation and proper fit.
If you are unsure which option may be most appropriate, you may reach out for guidance at:
customerservice@fittingchildrenshoes.com
Please include:
- Current shoe size
- Child’s age
- Foot shape (narrow, medium, wide)
- Diagnosed or observed condition
- Whether orthotics are used
Some links on this page may be affiliate links. This means a small commission may be earned if a purchase is made, at no additional cost to you. Models are selected based on structural criteria outlined in Pediatric Shoe Guide, not based on compensation.