Extra Wide Width Sneakers for Kids – Recommendations From a Shoe Fitter
Shopping for children with extra wide feet can be frustrating. You order sneakers online, only to send them back because they’re too tight, difficult to put on, or leave uncomfortable marks on your child’s feet. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. The truth is, most shoe brands—except for New Balance, Stride Rite, and a few generic brands—don’t design styles that properly accommodate wider feet and higher insteps. That’s where I come in. With over 10 years of experience as a professional shoe fitter, I’ve tested and reviewed countless options to identify the best extra wide width sneakers for kids. I’ll share a carefully curated list of styles that actually fit—comfortable, supportive sneakers that make a world of difference for children with extra wide feet.
What Does Extra Wide Feet Really Means?
What Is the Foot Instep and Why Does It Matter?
A high instep can often be overlooked, yet it plays a critical role in ensuring the shoe fits correctly and comfortably. The instep is the top part of the foot, and when it’s high, it makes it more complicated to find shoes that fit.
Do All Extra Wide Sneakers Actually Fit Extra Wide Feet?
Not always. Just because a sneaker is labeled “extra wide” doesn’t guarantee it will fit your child’s extra wide feet. In fact, some shoes marked as extra wide can run narrower than certain wide styles—or even narrower than brands that naturally fit wide without the extra-wide label. That’s why it’s so important not to assume the label alone means the shoe will work. Always look for sneakers that feature round toe-boxes, extra depth, and oversized openings.
Key Features of Extra Wide Width Sneakers: True Width and Depth
Extra Depth. This feature ensures that the shoe provides enough space vertically, which is particularly important for children with a high instep. Extra depth prevents the foot from feeling squished at the top and allows for better circulation, reducing the risk of foot pain and discomfort.
Having tested numerous shoe brands and styles, I’ve compiled my top recommendations in 2025 for extra wide width sneakers for kids. Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links, earning us a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Extra Wide Sneakers – My Top Shoe Recommendations in 2025
These brands and models have been carefully selected based on their excellent features and positive customer feedback.
New Balance Extra Wide Sneakers
New Balance is known for making some of the widest sneakers on the market, making them a top choice for kids with extra wide feet. Their extra wide options even accommodate high insteps. Below are my top New Balance recommendations.
990v6 by New Balance with Laces. These are the best New Balance extra wide sneakers as they are the deepest styles with the rounded toe-boxes. They are also available in wide and extra wide widths. The downside? This shoe comes with a steeper price tag.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids
- Order the 990v6 with laces on the New Balance website, Amazon, or Zappos
- Also available in pink and navy blue
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
990 Series with Velcro
- Order the 990v6 with velcro on the New Balance website, Amazon, or Zappos
- Also available in grey and black
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
Fresh Foam Arishi v4 by New Balance. These New Balance extra wide sneakers provide deep toe-boxes and are ideal for kids with high insteps. Families appreciate how these shoes are available in wide and extra wide widths and offered at a reasonable price.
Key Features
- Order the shoe Fresh Foam 650 by New Balance on the New Balance website or Amazon
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
- Also available with laces on the New Balance website, Zappos, and Amazon
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
Fresh Foam 650 by New Balance. These wide and extra wide New Balance shoes provide extra depth, oversized openings, and round toe-boxes, making them an ideal choice for boys with extra wide feet.
Key Features
- Order the shoe 650 by New Balance on the New Balance website or Zappos
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Also available with laces on Zappos and Amazon
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
Rave Run v2 by New Balance. These New Balance extra wide shoes provide extra depth and round toe-boxes. Parents like that these shoes are offered at an affordable price point.
Key Features
- Order the shoe Rave Run by New Balance on Zappos, Amazon, or the New Balance website
- Available in wide and extra wide widths
- Breathable mesh upper
- Padded collar and tongue
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
New Balance Kids’ 574 NEW-B Hook & Loop. These New Balance extra wide sneakers for boys offer extra depth, wide toe boxes, and cushioned midsoles, providing both comfort and support. The wide Velcro straps allow you to open the shoe widely for easy on and off.
Key Features
- Order the shoe 574 New-b V1 by New Balance on Amazon or the New Balance website
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids
- Also available with laces on the New Balance website, Amazon, and Zappos
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
- Received the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
Stride Rite Extra Wide Sneakers
These sneakers offer extra wide widths, ensuring a comfortable fit for children with wider feet. With a wide range of sizes and styles tailored to different age groups, they’re perfect for babies and toddlers taking their first steps as well as older kids who need durable, supportive shoes for active play.
Artie and Adalyn by Stride Rite. These Stride Rite extra wide baby shoes provide excellent width options (wide and extra wide) and a comfortable fit.
Key Features
- Order the shoe Artie and Adalyn by Stride Rite on Amazon or Zappos
- Rounded edges to decrease stumbles and falls
- Available in wide and extra wide widths
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your baby’s current foot size
Gaia by Stride Rite. These Stride Rite extra wide shoes feature double Velcro straps for oversized openings.
Key Features
- Order the shoe Gaia by Stride Rite on Zappos or Amazon
- Available in wide widths (fits high insteps)
- APMA approved
- Round-toe design
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your baby’s current foot size
M2P Journey 3.0 Adapt by Stride Rite. These extra wide Stride Rite shoes for girls are part of the Stride Rite adaptable line and come with extra long velcro straps and are available in extra wide widths.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers and little kids
- Order the shoe M2P Journey Adapt by Stride Rite on Zappos or Amazon
- Available in extra wide widths
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
Holly Mary Jane by Stride Rite. These extra wide Stride Rite shoes for girls are stylish and parents love them because their children can use them for casual wear or dressier occasions.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers and little kids
- Order the shoe SR Holly by Stride Rite on Zappos or Amazon
- Available in extra wide widths
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
See Kai Run – Ikiki – Billy Footwear
These three brands are excellent choices for kids with extra wide feet, each offering something unique. See Kai Run designs lightweight, flexible shoes with extra-long straps for a better fit. Ikiki shoes open exceptionally wide, making them easy to put on and take off. Billy Footwear offers extra wide width options with convenient side zippers, giving kids both comfort and independence.
Dean Adapt II by See Kai Run. These adaptable shoes for extra wide feet provide extra long straps and extra depth to allow the child’s feet to sit deeply inside the shoes. These shoes have a lightweight design.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers and little kids
- Order the shoe Dean Adapt II by See Kai Run on Zappos or Amazon
- Not available in wide or extra wide widths but fits naturally wide
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
Ikiki Shoes. These deep and wide toe box kids’ shoes are designed with a focus on functionality and fun. They feature extra wide toe-boxes that support natural foot movement, and many of their designs include playful characters and bright colors that toddlers love.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers and little kids
- Order the shoe 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 child’s current foot size
Billy Shoes. These Billy extra wide shoes have become a favorite among families with children who require wider shoes with extra depth that are easy to get on and off. Their unique zipper design allows for easy on-and-off, making them a convenient choice for both parents and children.
Key Features
- Available for little and big kids
- Order the shoe Classic DR High II by Billy on Zappos or Amazon
- Available in extra wide widths
- Leather upper
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
How to Reach Out for Specific Shoe Recommendations
Finding the right pair can sometimes feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone in this journey. As a shoe fitter with years of experience, I’m here to provide personalized advice. If you’re uncertain about what extra wide sneaker might work best for your child’s unique foot shape, reach out for specific shoe recommendations.
How to Determine the Right Size
Determining the right shoe size is crucial for ensuring a proper fit. Take advantage of my virtual guide that can help you measure your child’s feet accurately from home. My tool provides step-by-step instructions and can be incredibly helpful for online purchases.
Consider Growth Room. When fitting shoes for children with extra wide feet, it’s important to leave enough space for comfort and growth. I recommend choosing shoes about one full size larger than your child’s longest toe (rather than just a half size). This extra room helps prevent discomfort and ensures the shoes last longer as your child’s feet continue to grow.
Success Stories from Families Who Tried My Shoe Recommendations
I am heartened by the feedback from families who have had success with my recommendations. Many parents have shared their stories of how the right shoes have made a noticeable difference in their child’s comfort and activity levels.
Do Socks Matter?
Yes, socks do matter! The type of socks your child wears can influence the fit and comfort of their shoes. For children with wide feet, selecting the right socks is crucial. Thin, breathable, and seamless socks can prevent extra bulk, ensuring a better fit within their sneakers. I’ve developed a resource on socks specifically designed for kids with wide feet, which you can access to make more informed choices.
Best Sneakers for Toddlers with Extra Wide Feet
While many of the styles I recommend above come in toddler sizes, I’ve also created a dedicated resource just for little ones with extra-wide feet and high insteps. It’s a go-to guide to help parents find the best-fitting sneakers for their toddlers’ unique needs.
Watch My YouTube Video on Extra Wide Sneakers for Kids
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What to Do If Your Child Already Has a Foot Issue
If your child is already dealing with a foot problem, like painful blisters, don’t panic—there are steps you can take to help them heal quickly. First, make sure their shoes aren’t too tight and consider switching to extra wide width sneakers for kids that give their feet room to breathe. You can also let your child walk barefoot safely around the house to speed up healing and keep pressure off the affected area.
