Find Out the Degree of Pronation of Your Child – These Shoes Can Significantly Realign Your Child’s Feet!
Wondering if your child’s feet pronate normally or if there’s cause for concern? A certain degree of pronation is completely normal in children, but issues arise when it becomes excessive—known as overpronation—which can shift the foot muscles into inefficient positions and potentially cause discomfort or long-term problems. In this guide, I’ll show you how to find out your child’s degree of pronation in just two simple steps, with real-life images and videos to help you spot the signs. Remember, the first seven years of life are crucial for foot development—these are the golden years when supportive shoes and orthotics can help create lasting, healthy changes.
Keep in mind that there are 3 different degrees of pronation:
- Mild
- Moderate
- Strong
The degree of your child’s pronation is key in deciding whether early intervention is needed. Intervention doesn’t always mean drastic measures—it can be as simple as choosing the right pair of supportive shoes, using orthotics, or sometimes a combination of both to help keep your child’s feet healthy and comfortable.
Find Out the Degree of Your Child’s Pronation
I’m not a medical professional, but as a shoe fitter with over a decade of experience helping children find supportive shoes and orthotics tailored to their pronation needs, I’ve seen firsthand the difference the right fit can make. Still, my assessments are meant to complement—not replace—professional medical advice.
I’ll need three photos of your child’s feet, taken on a flat surface (not carpet) for accuracy. Check the examples below to see how the photos should look.
This image helps determine whether your child is flat footed and whether your child has a high instep or not.
This image helps determine whether your child has narrow, medium, wide, or extra wide feet.
This image helps determine whether your child has rolled ankles or not.
If you prefer, you can follow the steps in this video so I can assess your child’s pronation and foot shape.
Where Should You Send the Images/Videos?
Once you’ve got your images or videos ready, email them to me at: fittingchildrensshoes@gmail.com
Feel free to include any extra photos or videos you think might help. The more details you share, the better I can help find the perfect fit for your child’s feet!
Mild Pronation Examples — Before and After Images
Moderate Pronation Examples — Before and After Images
Strong Pronation Examples — Before and After Images
It’s obvious that the right shoes can truly transform your child’s pronation, making a huge difference in their comfort and movement. It’s also key to understand that in every example above, the child is wearing supportive shoes designed to provide stability while still letting their muscles do all the hard work naturally.
Be Proactive and Don’t Take the “Wait and See Approach”
Moderate to strong pronation can misalign your child’s feet, knees, and hips, disrupting their walking gait and posture. This misalignment forces muscles to work harder and less efficiently, which can quickly exhaust your child and make them less inclined to run and play like other kids.
How to Effectively Treat Your Child’s Pronation
Some parents tell me they have their children walk barefoot to “strengthen” their feet and ankles. In my experience, prolonged barefoot walking on an overpronated foot may at times exaggerate the deformity.
I’ve curated the best shoes for kids with moderate to strong pronation—though they’re great for mild cases too. These shoes offer strong support while still letting your child’s muscles do the work for healthy foot movement. Disclosure: Some links are affiliate links; we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Best Shoes for Kids with Pronation – Realign Your Child’s Feet
Remember, these shoes come in a range of widths—medium (M), wide (W), and extra wide (XW)—so be sure to select the perfect fit that matches your child’s unique foot shape for maximum comfort and support.
1. Shoe Style 990v6 by New Balance
These are the best shoes for kids with moderate or strong pronation as they provide straight lasts and robust outsoles to help distribute weight evenly across the foot and reduce strain on the muscles and joints. The downside that many parents complain about is the high price tag.
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
- Ideal for moderate to strong pronation
- Also available in pink, black, and navy blue
- There is also a Velcro version of these shoes available in navy blue and pink
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
2. Shoe Style Gabi by Memo (Orthopedic Shoe)
These orthopedic shoes for pronation (moderate and strong) are specifically designed to improve foot posture and comfort. The higher price point is a common complaint parents have but the investment in orthopedic shoes is often justified by their specialized design and effectiveness in addressing foot problems.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers and little kids
- Order the shoe Gabi by Memo on Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet
- Ideal for moderate to strong pronation
- Also available in a Mary Jane style and a version for older kids called Memo Polo
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
3. Shoe Style Elliott by Stride Rite
These high-top supportive sneakers for pronation (mild or moderate) offer excellent support and a comfortable fit, making them a top choice for kids with pronation.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers
- Order the shoe SRT Elliot by Stride Rite on Amazon or Zappos
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
- Ideal for mild to moderate pronation
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
4. Shoe style 574 by New Balance
These New Balance shoes for pronation (mild to moderate) combine style with functionality. They offer solid support and cushioning, making them suitable for kids with pronation.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids
- Order the shoe 574 New-b V1 by New Balance on Amazon or the New Balance website
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
- Ideal for mild to moderate pronation
- Also available with laces on the New Balance website, Amazon, and Zappos
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
5. Shoe Style Cohesion by Saucony
These supportive Saucony shoes are ideal for treating foot conditions such as flat feet, as they offer excellent cushioning and stability. The affordable pricing also makes them accessible to a wide range of families.
Key Features
- Available for little and big kids
- Order the shoe Cohesion KDZ on Zappos or Amazon
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Ideal for mild to moderate pronation
- Also available with laces on Zappos and Amazon
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
6. Shoe Style Fresh Foam Arishi v4 by New Balance
These versatile New Balance shoes provide a soft and comfortable fit while supporting your child’s flat feet. Families appreciate how this shoe is offered at a very reasonable price.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids
- Order the shoe Fresh Foam 650 by New Balance on the New Balance website or Amazon
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
- Ideal for moderate to strong pronation
- Also available with laces on Zappos and Amazon
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
7. Shoe Style 2002 by New Balance
These New Balance shoes for moderate or strong pronation are another great option at a more affordable price point than the 990v6.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids
- Order the shoe style 2002 by New Balance on the New Balance website
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Ideal for moderate to strong pronation
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
8. Shoe Style Cross Em Up by Adidas
These Adidas basketball shoes for pronation (mild to moderate) offer great support for kids. The versatility of these shoes make them suitable for both sports and everyday wear, adding value for parents looking for multi-functional footwear.
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
- Ideal for mild to moderate pronation
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
9. Shoe Style GT-1000 by Asics
These Asics are good running shoes for pronation and are ideal for kids with foot problems who have a narrower foot shape.
Key Features
- Order the shoe GT-1000 by Asics on Zappos or Amazon
- Available for little and big kids
- Fits narrow or medium feet
- Ideal for moderate to strong pronation
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
The shoes I recommend are designed to gently realign your child’s feet, creating a solid foundation that supports stronger muscles, enhances balance and coordination, and helps prevent both current and future foot and body issues.
Most pediatricians and therapists say a child’s foot condition will resolve naturally, but the “wait and see” approach can allow it to worsen. Early intervention—simply providing the right shoes and, if needed, orthotics—can make all the difference.
Should You Provide Your Child with a Pair of Orthotics?
Parents should consider certain factors before opting for orthotics. These include the severity of pronation, any pain experienced, and overall foot health. For children with moderate to severe pronation, you might consider these supportive orthotics for additional support. I also suggest that you consult with a pediatric specialist before making a decision.
Find Out the Degree of Pronation of Your Child with my YouTube Video
In this video, I will help guide you through simple steps to assess the degree of pronation in your child’s feet. You will learn how to observe your child’s feet from different angles to assess the arch and alignment.
Early identification of excessive pronation can help you take proactive steps to support your child’s foot health, including selecting appropriate footwear or consulting with a healthcare professional if needed.
Parents often have a keen eye for spotting when something’s off with their children. I hear from families worldwide who are concerned about their child’s foot posture and walking gait. No matter the path you choose, never underestimate how the right pair of shoes can truly transform your child’s pronation and overall comfort.
Hello Juan,
This is an EXCELLENT website. I have a question: do you offer recommendations on “house shoes” for children; something easy to slip on and off, while offering some support. We purchased a pair of recommended NB shoes for my son (shoe size 5, moderate pronation), however I need something to keep him from being barefoot in the house. What would you recommend? Many thanks!
Hello Alexa,
I am glad you find the website informative.
To recommend specific house shoes for your son I first need to know his foot shape (narrow, medium, wide, extra wide), whether he wears a toddler or a big kid shoe size 5, and the country that you are contacting me from to check what specific shoes you might be able to order.