How to Figure Out If Your Child Has a High Instep – Find Out with Just Two Images of Your Child’s Feet

August 11, 2025 High Instep Juan Valenzuela 0 - Comments

Struggling to get your child’s shoes on and off? Does your little one often complain about tightness, or do you notice indentations on the top of their feet after shoe removal? These could be clear signs of a high instep—a common foot shape that’s often overlooked but crucial to recognize. Knowing if your child has a high instep can make all the difference in choosing comfortable, well-fitting shoes that protect their feet. As an experienced shoe fitter, I’ll guide you through two simple steps to help you easily determine if your child has a high instep and ensure they get the perfect fit.

What Is the Instep of the Foot?

Here’s a closer look at the instep — the top part of the foot. When your child has a high instep, it means extra foot volume that can make finding the right shoes a real challenge.

A common misconception is thinking that a high arch always means a high instep—or that one guarantees the other. In my experience, many children have a high instep without a high arch, and others have high arches but normal insteps. Understanding this difference is key to finding the right shoes that truly fit your child’s unique foot shape.

Find Out If Your Child Has a High Instep: A Simple 2-Step Method

Since most children’s shoe stores are now closed, I have been helping parents figure out whether their children have a high instep or not by taking a look at two images of their child’s feet.

Step One. Have your child stand straight on a flat surface and take a photo of their foot from the side, focusing on the arch area.

Ensure your child is standing upright without socks for an accurate foot measurement.

Step Two. With your child still standing tall, capture a second photo from a different angle to get a complete view of their foot shape.

These two photos give me a clear view to determine if your child has a high instep. They also help me assess whether your child’s arch is flat, high, or normal.

Once you’ve captured these two images, just email them to me—and I’ll respond with personalized insights within 24 hours.

Why Knowing Your Child’s Instep Matters

A high instep limits your child’s shoe options to specific brands and styles that truly fit their foot shape. Many children experience foot pain simply because they’re wearing the wrong shoes—finding the right fit can make all the difference.

Best Shoes for Kids with High Insteps

Struggling to find shoes that comfortably fit your child’s high instep? Check out my specially crafted guide packed with top shoe recommendations designed to provide the perfect fit and ultimate comfort for high insteps.

The Two Most Common Signs That Your Child Has a High Instep

Visible indentations or red marks on the top of your child’s feet—clear signs that your child might have a high instep.
Having trouble sliding your child’s shoes on and off? This common struggle could signal a high instep.

A common mistake parents make is buying bigger shoes to ease tightness. Instead, look for shoes with extra depth to comfortably accommodate your child’s instep. Oversized shoes can compromise stability and increase the risk of falls—after all, would you want to run in shoes that don’t fit properly?

Watch My YouTube Video

I’ll walk you through a simple, visual method to help you identify whether your child has a high instep — so you can find shoes that truly fit and feel comfortable.

With many children’s shoe stores closed, finding the right fit—especially for kids with high insteps—can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry, I’m here to simplify the process and answer any questions you have.