Are Your Child’s AFO Shoes Too Big? Here’s How to Check

August 18, 2026 AFOs Juan Valenzuela 0 - Comments

If you’ve read any of my other articles about children’s shoes and AFOs, you already know how critical a properly fitting shoe is to how well an Ankle Foot Orthosis actually works. I’ve noticed that most parents buy shoes that are way too large to accommodate the AFO, which compromises your child’s stability and makes them more prone to foot issues like blisters. I created this resource specifically to show families how to check whether their child’s current shoes are too big for their AFOs.

Your child’s functional mobility is compromised when the shoes don’t fit the AFOs correctly. Shoes that are too large let the AFO move excessively inside the shoe, which can rub against your child’s feet the wrong way and lead to discomfort and blisters.

How to Check If Your Kids’ Shoes Are Too Big for the AFOs

Step 1: Remove the original insoles and place your child’s AFO on top. Align the end of the AFO with the end of the insole, and check how much space there is between the end of the AFO footplate and the end of the shoe.

^{There should be some space between the end of the AFO footplate and the end of the shoe — approximately ⅜ of an inch (about 1 centimeter) — which corresponds to a full shoe size larger. Anything noticeably more than that means the shoe is likely too big.}

^{Step 2 (optional): No original insoles? Slide your hand inside the shoe instead, and feel for excessive space between the end of the AFO footplate and the end of the shoe. It won’t be as precise as the insole method, but it’ll give you a reasonable sense of whether the shoe is running too big.}

Need Help Ordering the Correct Size?

If this check reveals your child’s current shoes are too big, I’ve put together a dedicated step-by-step resource for figuring out exactly what shoe size to order next — just measure your child’s AFO and foot length, send me the measurements, and I’ll respond within 24 hours with the correct size.

Getting the correct shoe style in the correct size is essential for your child to get the full benefit their AFOs are meant to provide.

What Are the Best Shoes for Kids Who Wear AFOs?

I’ve put together a dedicated resource showcasing the everyday sneakers I recommend for kids who wear AFOs, based on years of hands-on fittings.

Don’t Forget the Socks

Getting the right shoe in the right size matters, but the socks you choose matter too. I recommend SmartKnit’s seamless AFO interface socks — they’re specially designed for kids who wear AFOs, helping prevent skin irritation and pressure on the toes. They also feature a non-binding Halo Top, which minimizes indentations and irritation around the ankle.