Kids’ Shoes Certified by the American Podiatric Medical Association

December 5, 2024 Toddler Shoes Juan Valenzuela 0 - Comments

Are you looking for a pair of kids’ shoes certified by the American Podiatric Medical Association? The APMA Seal of Acceptance and Seal of Approval are only granted to shoes that promote good foot health. This certification ensures the shoes offer the necessary support, cushioning, and overall design conducive to healthy foot development. I have been contacted by many families who only want to provide their children with shoes that are APMA certified, so they can have the peace of mind that they are selecting shoes that have been evaluated by experts in podiatric medicine.

Shoe Recommendations from a Shoe Fitter

Having worked in a specialized children’s shoe store for over a decade, I’ve encountered numerous foot shapes and conditions. Each child’s foot is unique, and it’s important to find shoes that cater to their specific needs.

Shoe fitter fitting a child in the correct pair of shoes.
An image of a shoe fitter making sure the shoes fit correctly.

I am passionate about fitting children’s shoes as I truly believe the correct type of shoes can be life-changing. Children’s feet are constantly developing, and what happens to their feet during their childhood will affect their physique as they grow older. 

Should Your Kids’ Shoes Have the APMA Seal of Approval?

APMA has podiatrists review and evaluate shoes for quality, safety, and overall wearability. Podiatrists are doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. If the shoe meets their standards they award the APMA seal, which is granted to products found to promote good foot health. This certification provides peace of mind for parents seeking the best for their children’s foot health.

What Shoe Brands Manufacture Kids’ Shoes that are APMA Approved?

  • See Kai Run
  • Stride Rite
  • Pediped
  • Saucony
  • Livie & Luca
  • Sperry
  • Hush Puppies
  • Chaco

APMA-approved shoes are designed to support natural foot development, reducing the risk of issues such as flat feet or misalignment. Disclosure: Some links in this post may be affiliate links and we may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) when you click our links and make purchases.

APMA Approved Shoes for Babies and Toddlers

Take a look at the description below each shoe to find out whether that specific style can accommodate your child’s foot shape. This list of APMA approved shoes is for babies and toddlers who are learning how to walk.

1. Shoe Style Stevie II by See Kai Run

These APMA approved toddler shoes are a popular choice among parents for their wide toe boxes and adjustable straps, making them an excellent option for kids with wide feet. The flexible sole and durable construction provide support without restricting movement. 

See Kai Run shoe for toddler girls learning how to walk.
See Kai Run shoe for toddler boys learning how to walk.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style Stevie II by See Kai Run on Amazon or Zappos.
  • Not available in wide or extra wide widths but fits naturally wide.
  • Awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).
  • Durable cotton drill upper, comfy leather insole, and recycled mesh lining keep feet fresh.
  • Breathable textile lining and cushioned insole.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

2. Shoe Style Thompson by Stride Rite

Stride Rite is a well-known brand in children’s footwear, and their Soft Motion Thompson model is perfect for toddlers who need a wide toe box. The shoe features a flexible sole and a rounded toe design to support natural movement, making it a favorite among parents and podiatrists alike.

Stride Rite Thompson in pink for girls.
Stride Rite Thompson in navy blue for boys.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style Thompson Sneaker on Amazon
  • Available in wide widths.
  • Awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).
  • Padded tongue and collar for added comfort.
  • Breathable textile lining and cushioned insole.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

3. Shoe Style Racer by Tsukihoshi

Tsukihoshi shoes for toddler girls learning how to walk.
Tsukihoshi shoes for toddlers learning how to walk.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style Artie and Adalyn by Stride Rite on Amazon or Zappos.
  • Rounded edges to decrease stumbles and falls.
  • Available in wide and extra wide widths.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.

4. Shoe Style Artie and Adalyn by Stride Rite

The Artie and Adalyn styles from Stride Rite provide excellent width options (wide and extra wide) and a comfortable fit. Their design includes flexible outsoles and cushioned insoles, which are essential for active toddlers.

Shoe style Adalyn by Stride Rite for toddler girls with wide feet.
Shoe style Artie by Stride Rite for toddler boys with wide feet learning how to walk.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style Artie and Adalyn by Stride Rite on Amazon or Zappos.
  • Rounded edges to decrease stumbles and falls.
  • Available in wide and extra wide widths.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.

5. Shoe Style Elliott by Stride Rite

These high-top booties APMA approved toddler shoes by Stride Rite offer excellent support and a comfortable fit, making them a top choice for a toddler with flat feet and overpronation. This shoe is affordable and despite the limited color choices, the Elliott shoes are celebrated for their supportive qualities and comfortable fit.

Supportive brown Stride Rite bootie for toddlers with flat feet.
Supportive Stride Rite white bootie for toddlers with flat feet.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style SRT Elliot by Stride Rite on Amazon or Zappos.
  • Available in wide and extra wide widths.
  • 100% leather made.
  • I suggest getting this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

6. Shoe style Archie and Kiki by Stride Rite

These sandals are crafted to provide maximum comfort for wide feet. With their breathable materials and secure fit, they offer the support and flexibility needed for a growing child.

Stride Rite brown sandal for toddler boys with wide feet learning how to walk.
Stride Rite white sandal for toddler girls with wide feet.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style Archie and Kiki on Amazon or Zappos.
  • Available in wide and extra wide widths.
  • Leather upper.
  • Foam padding placed around the ankle collar and under the tongue for an incredibly comfortable fit and feel.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

7. Shoe Style Martin by Stride Rite

The shoe features a wide toe box and plush cushioning, making it perfect for everyday wear. Parents often highlight the shoe’s ability to maintain its shape and support even after prolonged use, underscoring its durability.

Stride Rite Martin bootie for toddler boys with wide feet.
Stride Rite Martin bootie for toddler girls with wide feet.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style Martin by Stride Rite on Zappos.
  • Available in wide and extra wide widths.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

8. Shoe Style Casey by See Kai Run

This See Kai Run bootie provides extra depth, rounded toe-boxes, and opens up nice and wide for easy on and off.

See Kai Run boot for toddler boys learning how to walk.
See Kai Run boot for toddler girls learning how to walk.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style Casey by See Kai Run on Amazon or Zappos.
  • Not available in wide or extra wide widths but fits naturally wide.
  • Awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).
  • Fleece lining for extra warmth.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

9. Shoe Style Lucia by See Kai Run

See Kai Run Mary Jane for toddlers learning how to walk.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style Casey by See Kai Run on Amazon or Zappos.
  • Not available in wide or extra wide widths but fits naturally wide.
  • Awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).
  • Fleece lining for extra warmth.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

10. Merrell Kids’ Bare Steps Sneaker

The Merrell’s Bare Steps sneaker is designed with a wide toe box and a barefoot feel, encouraging natural foot development. Its minimalist design allows for greater sensory feedback, which can enhance your child’s proprioception and coordination.

Merrell Bare Steps shoe style in pink for toddler girls.

The Bare Steps Sneaker is also made from eco-friendly materials, aligning with Merrell’s commitment to sustainability. This makes it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious parents seeking quality footwear for their children.

Merrell Bare Steps in grey for toddler boys.

Key Features:

  • Order the shoe style Bare Steps by Merrell on Amazon or Zappos.
  • Not available in wide or extra wide widths but fits naturally wide.
  • Awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).
  • Padded tongue and collar for added comfort.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

These are the best kids’ shoes certified by the American Podiatric Medical Association that can also accommodate different foot shapes such as medium, wide, and extra wide feet.

Get in Touch for a Personalized Suggestion

Some children have unique foot shapes or conditions that require special attention when selecting shoes. If you have any questions or need any further assistance, you can also contact me via email and I will get back to you as soon as possible. I am happy to help you find a different pair of shoes for your child so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.

The Importance of Providing Your Child with the Correct Shoe Size

Comfort is key when it comes to children’s footwear. Shoes that are too tight or too loose can lead to discomfort and even long-term foot problems. If you provide your child with the wrong shoe size, it doesn’t matter whether the shoes promote healthy foot development or not. I created a virtual shoe fitting service that will help you retrieve your child’s exact foot shape and length.

Do You Must Provide Your Child with Shoes that are APMA Approved?

The short answer is no, there are plenty of children’s shoes that don’t have the APMA approval seal and are also an excellent choice in terms of keeping a child’s foot healthy.

Help me make this resource even better by adding your recommendations of kids’ shoes certified by the American Podiatric Medical Association. I am sure that other families will benefit from reading about your experiences.