Orthopedic Sandals for Kids – Finding the Best Summer Sandal for Your Child!
Has your child been diagnosed with flat feet, toe-walking, low muscle tone, hypermobility, or another foot condition that requires extra support? Finding the right footwear is crucial, especially during the summer when sandals are the go-to choice. Unlike regular sandals, orthopedic sandals are specially designed to promote proper alignment, support developing arches, and absorb impact for all-day comfort. As an experienced and passionate shoe fitter, I’ve helped countless families find the best orthopedic sandals to keep their children’s feet healthy and supported during the warmer months.
As summer arrives, your child won’t want to wear sneakers with orthotics all day. A pair of supportive sandals is essential to keep their feet properly aligned and comfortable. Without them, all the progress you’ve made with supportive footwear and orthotics could be undone.
First Things First: Do Orthotics Work Inside Regular Sandals?
One of the common questions I receive is whether orthotics can be used inside regular sandals. The answer is that while some sandals might accommodate orthotics, it’s not always ideal. Orthopedic sandals are specifically designed to offer the structural support that orthotics provide, often eliminating the need for additional inserts. Regular sandals may not have the necessary features to hold orthotics in place, leading to discomfort or reduced effectiveness.
Can You Fit Orthotics Inside Orthopedic Sandals?
Yes, as the orthopedic sandals that I recommend have an enclosed heel counter which will allow you to fit an orthotic inside the sandals. However, many find that the built-in support of orthopedic sandals is sufficient without additional orthotics.
Why Are These Orthopedic Sandals Ideal for Kids with Foot Issues?
The orthopedic sandals I recommend are crafted from premium European materials, ensuring durability, comfort, and a timeless design. Made from natural materials, they adapt seamlessly to your child’s feet without causing discomfort or skin irritation. Here are the key features that set these sandals apart:
1. Firm Heel Counters: Firm heel counters are a critical feature of orthopedic sandals. They provide stability and prevent excessive movement, which can lead to discomfort or injury. The heel counter helps maintain the correct alignment of the foot, ensuring that your child’s gait is natural and supported. By
2. Substantial Outsoles: Supportive orthopedic sandals provide a stable base of support that helps distribute pressure evenly across the foot, minimizing strain and discomfort. Furthermore, they enhance stability, which is particularly important for children who are dealing with foot conditions.
3. High-Quality Materials: The upper and lining of these sandals are made of high-quality genuine nappa-leather. They also have foam-padded elements in specific areas of the feet for better comfort and to help prevent blisters.
While trends and designs may change, my top recommendations for orthopedic sandals remain consistent based on their support and durability. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
The Best Orthopedic Sandals for Kids for Better Support and Stability
As a shoe fitter with years of experience, I have curated a list of the best orthopedic sandals for kids in 2025. These recommendations are based on functionality, comfort, and support.
Betti and Pedro by Memo
Memo’s Betti and Pedro orthopedic sandals for kids are equipped with a robust support system, including a firm heel counter and arch support. These features work together to guide the foot towards a healthier walking pattern, making them an excellent choice for children with foot conditions who need corrective footwear.
Key Features
- Order the sandal Betti and Pedro by Memo on Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet
- This is an orthopedic sandal
- Thermoplastic asymmetric stiff heel counter for proper foot protection and support
- Genuine leather lining
- I suggest that you get this sandal a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
Orthopedic Sandals by Princepard
With features like a firm heel counter, cushioned insoles, and adjustable straps, these orthopedic sandals for kids are ideal for treating and preventing several foot conditions.
Key Features
- Order the sandal style Sandals Summer Open Toe by Princepard on Amazon
- Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet
- 3 adjustable velcro straps for easy on and off
- Long and firm heel counter helps improve stability and maintain correct foot posture.
- I suggest that you get this sandal a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
Agnes and Michael by Memo
These orthopedic sandals for kids offer orthopedic support with their anatomically shaped footbed and firm heel counters that aid in maintaining the foot’s correct position.
Key Features
- Order the sandal Michael Corrective Orthopedic by Memo on Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet (fits high insteps)
- 100% leather made
- Ability to adjust the Hook and Loop strap length to the different foot width
- I suggest that you get this sandal a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
Contact Me for Specific Shoe Recommendations
If you’re unsure which orthopedic sandals or shoes are best for your child, I’m here to help. As a passionate shoe fitter, I offer personalized shoe recommendations based on your child’s unique foot shape and condition. Feel free to contact me via email for specific shoe recommendations tailored to your child’s needs.
I completely understand that investing $120 in orthopedic sandals isn’t always feasible for every family. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, I recommend considering a pair of regular supportive sandals that still provide the comfort and stability your child needs.
Order the Correct Shoe Size Online with My Virtual Shoe Fitting Service
Ensuring the correct fit is paramount. I offer a virtual shoe fitting service that can help you order the right size online. This service considers your child’s specific foot shape and size, providing personalized recommendations. Accurate sizing is critical as an ill-fitting shoe can negate the benefits of orthopedic features, leading to discomfort or foot problems.
Bonus Resource: Orthopedic Sneakers for Kids
As a bonus resource, I recommend exploring orthopedic sneakers for additional support during more active play. These sneakers offer similar benefits to sandals but with added protection and support for more rigorous activities.
Watch My YouTube Video to Learn More
In this video, you’ll get a closer look at the key features that make the orthopedic sandals I recommend stand out. You’ll also see a side-by-side comparison of the support offered by orthopedic sandals versus regular sandals. This video is a valuable resource for parents, pediatricians, podiatrists, and educators who focus on children’s foot health and want to make informed decisions about footwear.
As a passionate shoe fitter with years of hands-on experience, I truly understand the challenges parents face when choosing the right footwear for their kids. I’m here to help! Feel free to drop any questions you have in the comments below, and I’ll be happy to assist you.
I am ISO of new summer sandal for my child who has flat feet and falls often, he also plays soccer. In the past he has worn Merrell sandals but do you have any recommendations for a good supportive sandal, with closed toes? I had also wondered about boots for the colder season. He currently wears a little kid 13. Thanks!
Hello Jess,
Has your child tried Keen sandals before? They are some of the most supportive and durable kids summer sandals. They are my to-go sandals for children with flat feet and stability issues. I believe you mention in another comment that your child has narrow feet, am I correct?
If your child has narrow feet, this is the Keen sandal style that fits the narrowest:
Keen Sandal for Boy with Narrow Feet
If I am mistaken and your boy doesn’t have narrow feet, here is another style that you can try:
Supportive Sandal for Flat Feet
Is it going to get colder soon where you live? When the winter season comes I will be able to recommend good supportive boots for his feet.
Hello! Do the shoes recommend work with an SMO brace? My daughter has the Sure Step SMO braces and I can’t find sandals to fit her. Thanks!
Hello Natalie,
I have never had a child wear orthotics with sandals. When children have a foot condition then I recommend that during the summer they wear a good supportive sandal and then switch back to his or her sneakers with orthotics. If you want to fit your daughter’s SMO braces in a pair of sandals these are the only sandals that will be able to accommodate them. These are the most supportive sandals for children with foot issues.
If you decide to try a pair of sandals without the SMO braces you should try Keen sandals. Here is a link to that article:
Sandals for Kids with Flat Feet – Supportive, Lightweight, Flexible, and Durable!
If you decide to try them, please let me know how they work out.
thanks
Thank you! What are your thoughts on Natives Jefferson?
Hello Ruth,
They are great as a casual summer shoes but I wouldn’t wear it more than 5 hours a day since they don’t offer a lot of support. You can learn more about Natives shoe styles in this article I wrote:
Native Shoes – The Must Have Shoe For The Summer
I hope this helps!
Hi Juan Pablo,
Thank you for writing this helpful article! I am only able to see 4 sandals, all of them are Keen ones. I can’t see the “second row” that you refer to.
Thank you,
Ruth
Ruth,
I checked and it’s working fine for me. Please try refreshing your page.