Kids’ Shoes for Cavus Foot – Extra Depth and a Firm Heel Counter!

July 23, 2025 Cavus Foot Juan Valenzuela 0 - Comments

Does your child have unusually high arches? This condition, known as cavus foot, can lead to heel pain, instability, and even long-term issues like bunions if not addressed early. Children with high arches often place too much pressure on the outer edge of their feet, which can affect posture and cause discomfort. Supportive shoes can make a big difference in relieving pain and improving alignment. As a professional children’s shoe fitter with years of experience, I’m here to help you find the best shoes for kids with cavus foot—so your child can move comfortably and confidently without the need for invasive treatments.

What Are the Complications of Having High Arches?

Children with cavus foot may experience discomfort, instability, and even pain. Over time, this condition can lead to more serious issues such as ankle sprains, calluses, and stress fractures.

Children with high arches tend to place most of their weight on the ball and heel of the foot, causing instability and inward ankle rolling. This uneven weight distribution can throw the body out of alignment and lead to foot, leg, or lower back pain over time.

What Causes Children to Have High Arches?

Many parents ask me why their child developed cavus foot. In some cases, it’s simply an inherited structural trait. However, high arches can also be linked to underlying medical conditions, particularly neurological disorders such as cerebral palsy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, spina bifida, polio, muscular dystrophy, or even a past stroke. Understanding the root cause is key to finding the right treatment and support.

The Challenges of Finding Shoes for Children with High Arches

Many families reach out to share how frustrating it can be to find the right shoes for children with high arches. The challenge isn’t just finding supportive footwear—it’s finding shoes that can actually accommodate the unique shape of a high-arched foot. The right pair is essential to help prevent ankle sprains, stress fractures, and long-term discomfort. But it’s not easy—shoes for high arches need to offer a stable base, firm heel counters, and straight lasts to properly support your child’s feet.

What a Difference the Correct Types of Shoes Can Make!

I’ve seen firsthand how the right supportive shoes can make a world of difference—easing foot and leg pain while helping children walk and run with better alignment and confidence.

The right shoes can help align your child’s feet, prevent them from collapsing, and improve how they walk and run. Don’t just take my word for it—check out this image of a barefoot child with high arches and inward-turning heels.
Now, take a look at the “after” photo of the same child wearing supportive shoes. Notice how much straighter the feet appear? The shoes are doing their job—providing structure, preventing the arches from collapsing, and stopping the heels from turning inward.

What Makes the Shoes I Recommend Effective for Cavus Foot?

A pair of New Balance running shoes for kids with high insteps vs a pair of Asics kids' shoes that is not deep enough.
Feature One: Extra Depth. This feature is vital for accommodating the unique shape of a high-arched foot. Shoes with extra depth can adapt to the foot’s structure, reducing the risk of pain and long-term complications.
children's-shoes-with-heel-support
Feature Two: Ankle Support. Ankle support is another critical feature for children with cavus foot. Proper support helps maintain balance and reduces the risk of injury. Look for shoes with a supportive design that wraps around the ankle, providing a secure fit without restricting movement.
children's-shoes-with-the-correct-amount-of-flexibility
Feature Three: Lightweight and Flexible. Support is key—but your child’s shoes also need to be lightweight and flexible to keep their feet and legs from tiring out too quickly. The right shoes should bend naturally at the ball of the foot—never in the middle—allowing for healthy movement without sacrificing stability.

As a shoe fitter, I have compiled a list of my top shoe recommendations for children with cavus foot in 2025. These shoes are designed to meet the specific needs of high-arched feet, ensuring comfort, support, and durability. Disclosure: Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases.

Best Kids’ Shoes for Cavus Foot – Supportive and Deep

1. Shoe Style 990v6 by New Balance. These are the best shoes for cavus foot due to their superior support and cushioning. The robust outsole helps distribute weight evenly across the foot and reduces strain on the muscles and joints. The downside that many parents complain about is the high price tag.

990v6 New Balance shoe with laces in black for kids.
New Balance 990 for kids with laces in purple color.
990v6 New Balance shoe with laces in black for kids.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers, little, and big kids.
  • You can order the 990v6 with laces on the New Balance website, Amazon, or Zappos.
  • Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths.
  • Also available in pink and navy blue.
  • There is also a Velcro version of these shoes available in navy blue and pink.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size.

2. Shoe Style Gabi by Memo (Orthopedic Shoe). These orthopedic shoes for high arches are specifically designed to improve foot posture and comfort. The higher price point is a common complaint parents have but the investment in orthopedic shoes is often justified by their specialized design and effectiveness in addressing high arches.

Orthopedic shoe for kids made by Memo in grey and yellow with double velcro straps.
Orthopedic shoe for kids made by Memo in grey and pink with double velcro straps.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers and little kids.
  • You can order the shoe style Gabi by Memo on Amazon.
  • Fits medium and wide feet.
  • Also available in a Mary Jane style and a version for older kids called Memo Polo.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size.

3. Shoe Style Elliott by Stride Rite. These high-top booties by Stride Rite offer excellent support and a comfortable fit, making them a top choice for kids with high arches. The shoe features a cushioned insole and flexible outsole, perfect for supporting high arches.

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

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.

4. Shoe style 574 by New Balance. This New Balance shoe combines style with functionality. With its padded collar and supportive midsole, this shoe is well-suited for high-arched feet. The shoe is offered at a lower price point.

New Balance kids shoe style 574 in purple color for girls.
New Balance shoe style 574 in grey for boys.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers, little, and big kids.
  • Order the shoe style 574 New-b V1 by New Balance on Amazon or the New Balance website.
  • Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths.
  • Also available with laces on the New Balance website, Amazon, and Zappos.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

5. Shoe Style Tracks by Timberland. The sturdy design ensures that children can enjoy outdoor activities without compromising on foot stability or comfort, but this style is slightly heavier than my other shoe recommendations.

Supportive Timberland high-top boot for kids with flat feet.
Supportive Timberland high-top boot for kids with flat feet.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers and little kids.
  • Order the shoe style Tracks by Timberland on Zappos or Amazon.
  • Fits medium and wide feet.
  • Water-friendly
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.

6. Shoe Style Cohesion by Saucony. The Saucony Cohesion features a breathable mesh upper and cushioned outsole, providing comfort and support for kids with high arches. The affordable pricing also makes them accessible to a wide range of families.

Supportive Saucony Cohesion for boys with flat feet.
Supportive Saucony kids Cohesion for girls with flat feet.

Key Features

  • Available for little and big kids.
  • Order the shoe style Cohesion KDZ on Zappos or Amazon.
  • Available in medium and wide widths.
  • Also available with laces on Zappos and Amazon.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.

7. Shoe Style Fresh Foam Arishi v4 by New Balance. This shoe’s fresh foam midsole offers plush cushioning, ideal for kids with high arches. Families appreciate how this shoe is offered at a very reasonable price.

New Balance kids Fresh Foam Arisihi with wide toe-boxes in navy blue for boys.
New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi v4 in light blue for toddler girls.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers, little, and big kids.
  • Order the shoe style Fresh Foam 650 by New Balance on the New Balance website or Amazon.
  • Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths.
  • Also available with laces on Zappos and Amazon.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.

8. Shoe Style 2002 by New Balance

These shoes for cavus foot are a great option for kids with high arches at a more affordable price point than the 990v6.

Supportive New Balance shoe with laces and green color.
Supportive New Balance shoe with laces and white and pink color for girls.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers, little, and big kids.
  • Order the shoe style 2002 by New Balance on the New Balance website.
  • Available in medium and wide widths.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.

9. Shoe Style Cross Em Up by Adidas

The Cross Em Up by Adidas is a basketball-inspired shoe that offers great support and stability for kids with high arches. The versatility of the shoe makes it suitable for both sports and everyday wear, adding value for parents looking for multi-functional footwear.

Adidas kids basketball shoe with wide toe-boxes in purple for girls.
Supportive Adidas high top shoe for boys.

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.

10. Shoe Style GT-1000 by Asics

The GT-1000 by Asics is a popular choice for kids who require extra stability and support, and is one of the best running shoes for high arches. This specific shoe is capable of fitting children with narrow feet.

Supportive red Asics shoes for boys with flat feet.
Supportive Asics running shoe for kids in mint color for girls.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style GT-1000 by Asics on Zappos or Amazon
  • Available for little and big kids.
  • Fits narrow or medium feet.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.

Would You Rather Receive Specific Shoe Recommendations?

If you’re unsure about your child’s foot shape or need specific shoe recommendations, feel free to reach out with your child’s exact foot measurements. Remember, the right pair of shoes can make a significant difference in your child’s life, providing the support they need to thrive.

Determining Your Child’s Shoe Size and Foot Shape

Accurate measurement of your child’s foot size and shape is essential when purchasing shoes, especially for children with cavus foot. I created a free virtual shoe fitting service to help you find your child’s exact shoe size—all from the comfort of your home. In the guide, I walk parents through how to accurately measure foot length and width, whether your child has narrow, medium, wide, or extra wide feet. I can also help you determine if your child has a high instep, which is key to getting a truly comfortable and supportive fit.

Unsure If Your Child Has High Arches?

Take a look at the images below—if your child’s feet have a noticeably raised arch that doesn’t flatten when standing, there’s a good chance they have high arches.

Child with high arches and high insteps.
A child's foot with high arches.

Here are some common signs that may indicate your child has high arches:

  • Pain or discomfort when standing or walking
  • Frequent ankle sprains due to instability
  • Hammertoes or curled toes
  • Calluses forming on the ball or outer edge of the foot

If you’re noticing any of these, it may be time to take a closer look at their footwear.

Finding the right shoes for children with cavus foot requires attention to detail and a focus on specific features like extra depth and firm heel counters. By choosing the correct footwear, you can help manage this condition effectively, ensuring your child remains comfortable and active.