High Top Shoes for Kids with Foot Problems – Improve Your Child’s Ankle Stability!
Has your child been diagnosed with a foot condition like weak ankles or heel pain, and your medical professional recommends supportive high-top shoes? High-top shoes for kids with foot problems offer extra cushioning and support around the ankles, helping to improve balance, walking gait, and reduce the risk of injury. Plus, using specific lacing techniques can further enhance ankle stability, ensuring your child stays comfortable and protected throughout the day.
Do High Top Shoes Provide Better Support than Sneakers?
High top shoes aren’t always the guaranteed solution for better support compared to your child’s everyday sneakers. However, the key is in the quality and design. Not all high top shoes are created equal. While some offer exceptional ankle support and help treat foot conditions, others may fall short and offer less support than a good pair of regular sneakers. It’s important to choose wisely, as the right high top shoe can make all the difference in helping treat your child’s foot condition.
Main Benefits of Providing Your Child with High Top Shoes
The biggest benefit of high top shoes for your child is the added stability they provide. The snug fit around the ankle can give your child’s feet a feeling of extra support, helping them feel more secure during everyday activities. However, it’s essential to remember that while stability is key, supporting your child’s feet shouldn’t come at the cost of their mobility.
Key Features to Look for in High Top Shoes
High top shoes are designed to offer superior cushioning and support, making them ideal for daily wear. They are particularly beneficial for athletic activities, providing the necessary support to keep kids comfortable and prevent foot fatigue
1. Firm Heel Counters: High top shoes are often equipped with firm heel counters, an essential feature for children with foot problems. A firm heel counter helps maintain the alignment of the foot, providing a more structured fit that can assist in correcting gait issues.
2. Higher Cut: The higher cut helps to stabilize the ankle, reducing the risk of injuries and improving balance. This is particularly beneficial for children who have a tendency to roll their ankles or who require additional support due to foot alignment issues.
3. Supportive Outsoles: High-top shoes with supportive outsoles offer a strong, stable foundation that helps keep your child’s feet secure and properly aligned with every step they take.
How to Order the Correct Shoe Size Online
Children’s feet come in all different shapes and sizes. Finding the right shoe size is essential for ensuring that your child receives the full benefits of high top shoes. My virtual shoe fitting service can help you determine the correct size without leaving your home.
Available in various styles and colors, high tops can be both functional and stylish, appealing to children and parents alike. This versatility means that they can be worn for both casual and sports occasions, making them a practical choice for many families. Disclosure: Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases.
High Top Shoes for Kids with Foot Problems for Better Stability
Here are my top recommendations for 2025, which are available in different colors to suit every child’s taste. If you are planning on fitting an orthotic inside any of these high top shoes I strongly recommend that you remove the original insoles of the shoes before placing your child’s orthotics.
1. Shoe Style Elliott by Stride Rite
These toddler high-top shoes by Stride Rite offer excellent support and provide extra depth to accommodate orthotics.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers
- You can order the shoe style SRT Elliot by Stride Rite on Amazon or Zappos
- 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
2. Hoops Mid 3.0 AC by Adidas
These stylish and supportive high-top sneakers for kids are designed to provide extra stability. The cushioned midsole and excellent ankle support makes it ideal for toddlers with foot conditions.
Key Features
- Order the shoe style Hoops Mid 3.0 by Adidas on Zappos or Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
3. TWO WXY v5 by New Balance
These high-top shoes for kids made by New Balance are a top choice for kids who wear orthotics. With their roomy fit and advanced cushioning, these basketball shoes ensure maximum comfort and support during high-intensity play.
Key Features
- Order the shoe style Coco Unity by New Balance on the New Balance website
- Fits children with extra wide feet (fits high insteps)
- Lace-up closure
- NDurance rubber outsole technology provides superior durability in high-wear areas
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
4. Shoe Style Cross Em Up by Adidas
With a high-top design and strong sole, this shoe provides the necessary support for children who wear orthotics.
Key Features
- Available for little and big kids
- Order the shoe style 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
5. AND1 Basketball Shoes Kids
These high-top sneakers for kids are designed with a roomy, comfortable fit that offers ample space to accommodate orthotics.
Key Features
- Order the shoe style AND1 on Amazon
- Available in wide widths
- The full-length rubber outsole and multi-directional herringbone tread maximize skid resistance
- Lace closure offers a secure fit
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole larger than your child’s current foot size
6. Shoe Style Hoops Mid 3.0 by Adidas (Laces)
These Adidas supportive high-top shoes provide a stable base of support and firm heel counters to help improve posture and gait.
Key Features
- Available for little and big kids
- Order the shoe style Hoops Mid 3.0 by Adidas on Zappos and Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
While high tops offer benefits, they are not a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s essential to consider the specific needs of your child’s feet. Each child’s foot is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. Therefore, assessing your child’s individual needs is crucial when selecting footwear.
Personalized Shoe Recommendations
As a dedicated shoe fitter, I am committed to helping families find the right pair of shoes for their children. By understanding your child’s specific needs and foot conditions, I can provide personalized shoe recommendations that ensure comfort, support, and style. You can contact me via email or through the comments section below for personalized shoe recommendations based on your child’s foot shape (narrow, medium, wide, extra wide), and foot condition.
Are Converse High Top Shoes Recommended?
Parents often wonder whether popular high top sneakers, like Converse, are suitable for children with foot problems. While Converse high tops are stylish and provide some degree of ankle support, they may not offer the structured support necessary for children with specific foot issues. The appeal of these shoes often lies in their aesthetic, but it’s important to prioritize function over fashion when it comes to children’s foot health.
When to Opt for Sneakers
Sneakers are an excellent choice for everyday activities, providing the perfect balance of flexibility, comfort, and support for active kids. With their lightweight design, they’re ideal for long hours of wear, making them a great option for children who spend a lot of time running, walking, or playing. These supportive sneakers are also easy to slip on and off, which is perfect for younger children who may struggle with traditional fastenings. Plus, their breathability and cushioning ensure that your child’s feet stay comfortable and supported all day long.
