How to Make Shoes Tighter – Get the Best Shoe Fit for Your Kids’ Narrow Feet!

July 12, 2025 Narrow Shoes Juan Valenzuela 0 - Comments

Struggling to keep your child’s shoes from slipping and sliding? Many parents search for ways to make their kids’ shoes tighter—whether it’s to accommodate narrow feet or to satisfy kids who crave a snug fit due to sensory sensitivities. As a children’s shoe fitter with years of hands-on experience, I’ve helped countless families tackle this exact problem. In this guide, I’ll show you how to make shoes tighter without sacrificing comfort or proper foot health. From choosing lace-up shoes for better adjustability to using clever fixes like tongue pads and extra insoles, I’ll share practical solutions to help your child’s shoes fit perfectly.

My Experience Fitting Children’s Shoes

For many years, I have worked in a specialized shoe store and this practical experience has taught me everything that I know about fitting children’s shoes. I know the challenges that parents face when it comes to finding shoes for children who have “complex” foot shapes such as narrow feet.

How to Make Shoes Tighter with Lace-Up Sneakers

If your child has narrow feet, the best place to start is by trying shoe styles specifically designed with a slimmer fit, as this greatly improves the chances of a comfortable, secure fit. I’ve written several articles about the best shoes for kids with narrow feet—including one favorite guide that many parents find incredibly helpful. While the selection can sometimes feel limited, there’s often a pair your child will love. However, if you still struggle to find the right option—or if your child dislikes the available styles—don’t worry. Next, I’ll show you how to adjust standard or regular-width shoes to better fit narrow feet, so your child can have both comfort and choice without compromising on style.

How to Make Shoes Tighter

Try these two easy methods to give your child’s shoes a snugger, more comfortable fit!

First Method: Fitting a Tongue Pad Inside Your Kids’ Shoes

One simple yet effective way to make shoes tighter is by using tongue pads. These pads are placed on the underside of the shoe’s tongue, adding extra cushioning and reducing the shoe’s internal space. This method not only provides a quick fix but also enhances the overall comfort of the shoe, making it a practical solution for day-to-day use.

^{A tongue pad is an adhesive-backed pad that is placed on the tongue of the shoes, and it works in all enclosed shoes.}

^{It’s important that you place the tongue pads correctly inside your child’s shoes. Start by peeling the tongue pad and place the widest part of the tongue pad on the top of the tongue of the shoe.}

Best Tongue Pads for Kids’ Shoes

Tongue pads are an affordable solution, often available at local shoe stores, but I’ve found the best prices and quality on Amazon. For the best comfort and durability, I highly recommend choosing high-quality leather tongue pads.

Order these Pedag Supra leather tongue pads on Amazon
Made from high-quality skin safe vegetable tanned suede leather
Adjusting memory foam cushion
Disclosure: We may earn a commission when you click our links and make a purchase

One great perk of tongue pads is how easily you can take them out if your child starts saying their shoes feel too tight. This simple fix helps extend the life of the shoes, letting your child wear them comfortably for a bit longer.

Second Method: Fitting an Extra Insole Inside Your Kids’ Shoes

Another great method I often use to help regular-width shoes fit children with narrow feet is adding an extra insole. This simple trick fills excess space inside the shoes, giving a snugger fit. Placing the extra insole on top of the original one slightly raises your child’s foot and helps eliminate gaps, making the shoes feel more secure and comfortable.

Best Insoles for Kids’ Shoes

These insoles can fit from toddler size 4 all the way up to big kid size 7—just trim it to match your child’s shoe size. And the best part? If you trim it carefully, there’s no need to glue it down—it will stay perfectly in place for comfortable, hassle-free wear.

Order the two pairs of kids’ insoles in beige on Amazon
Quality latex and fabric
The insoles can be trimmed to fit the shoes by following the cut lines printed on the kids’ sole insert
Breathable
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It’s easy to customize these insoles for your child’s shoes — simply trim them to fit your kids’ exact shoe size. A helpful trick is to use the original insoles as a template, so you’ll know exactly where and how much to cut for the perfect fit.

You Should Also Apply This Amazing Shoe Lacing Technique

Lacing techniques can also play a significant role in achieving the best fit for narrow feet. An effective lacing method can secure the foot better, preventing slipping and ensuring comfort. Adjusting lacing techniques is an often overlooked aspect of achieving a perfect fit, yet it is a simple and cost-free way to enhance shoe comfort.

Contact Me with Any Questions

I am here to help if you have any questions or need further assistance in finding the perfect fit for your child’s narrow feet. Feel free to reach out for personalized shoe recommendations or advice. My experience has equipped me with insights that can help you navigate the often overwhelming choices available in children’s footwear.