As a shoe fitter with years of experience in helping families find the perfect shoes for their kids, I understand the importance of the right support during the critical early years when structural changes are more easily achieved. Orthotics are designed to support, align, and improve the function of the feet. I am going to show you the best orthotics for children with flat feet, and other conditions such as low muscle tone, hypermobility, and toe walking.
My Experience Fitting Children’s Shoes and Orthotics
Several physical and occupational therapists refer children to the shoe store where I work to be fitted for supportive shoes and orthotics. While I am not a medical professional, I have seen firsthand the positive impact that the correct type of orthotics can have on a child’s life. It is amazing how something so simple such as fitting a child in the correct type of orthotics can improve the child’s walking gait, balance, and overall posture.
Before and After Images of Supportive Orthotics
How to Choose Orthotics Based on the Degree of Your Child’s Pronation
When selecting orthotics for your child, it’s essential to consider the degree of pronation, which refers to the inward rolling of the foot during walking or running. Understanding your child’s pronation type is key to choosing the right orthotic support.
- Mild Pronation: For mild pronation, a standard insole with moderate arch support may be sufficient. These provide just the right amount of support without altering the natural foot movement.
- Moderate to Severe Pronation: For more pronounced pronation, consider orthotics with enhanced arch support and a deeper heel cup to provide better stability. These options ensure that the foot remains aligned and reduces the risk of strain.
Children Orthotic Insoles for Mild Cases of Pronation
Footlogics orthotic insoles are soft or semi-rigid orthotics that offer gentle support and cushioning. These orthotic insoles can help alleviate minor discomfort without overly restricting the foot’s natural movement. They are ideal for children with minor pronation issues who may not require extensive intervention.
Fits Toddler Shoe Size 5 up to Big Kid Shoe Size 3
- Order the Footlogics full-length supportive insole on Amazon
- Fits a toddler shoe size 5 up to a big kid shoe size 3
- Medically approved insoles with targeted cushion and support
- Deep heel cup with strong arch support
- Made from lightweight yet supportive cushioning material with shock-absorbing heel and forefoot padding
- They can be trimmed to size with scissors if needed
- You need to remove the original insoles of the shoes to make the orthotics fit better
Fits Big Kid Shoe Size 3 1/2 and Above
- Order the Footlogics full-length supportive insole on Amazon
- Fits a big kid shoe size 3.5 up to a big kid shoe size 7 (available in adult sizes so you need to convert to kids’ shoe sizes)
- Built-in metatarsal raise
- Deep heel cup
- Developed by Australian podiatrists
- They can be trimmed to size with scissors if needed
- You need to remove the original insoles of the shoes to make the orthotics fit better
Children’s Orthotics for Moderate or Severe Cases of Pronation
LittleSTEPS orthotics provide firmer arch support to help align the foot and reduce excessive inward rolling. These orthotics provide a balanced approach, offering enough support to correct the pronation while still allowing for natural foot function. This orthotic is ideal for children with significant pronation problems.
1. Deep heel cup that helps control the alignment of the heel and lower leg.
2. Medial and lateral flanges to help keep the foot aligned over the orthotic.
3. The 3/4 length design of littleSTEPS orthotics makes them easier to fit into various shoe styles.
4. It’s not necessary to remove the original insoles of the shoes when fitting this orthotic.
You Must Enter a Referral Code to Order this Orthotic
To place an order for littleSTEPS® Orthotics, you must submit a Referral Code in the Discount Window during the ordering process: JVFCS100121
Take a look at the chart below to figure out what littleSTEPS orthotic size to order based on your child’s shoe size:
Contact Me for Personalized Orthotic Recommendations
As a dedicated shoe fitter, I am here to help you find the right orthotics for your child. Whether you need assistance in assessing pronation or selecting the most suitable orthotic, feel free to reach out for personalized recommendations. Together, we can ensure that your child receives the best possible support for healthy foot development: fittingchildrensshoes@gmail.com
Shoe Recommendations to Accommodate Orthotics
Selecting the right orthotic shoes for kids is essential for maximizing their benefits. I created a different resource that has a list of supportive shoes that fit orthotics.
The first seven years of a child’s life are often referred to as the “golden years of treatment opportunity.” During this period, the foot and lower extremities are still developing, making it easier to achieve permanent structural changes with the right interventions, such as supportive shoes and orthotics. The orthotics for kids that I showed you are the most effective ones in terms of support, comfort, and stability.
My child has flat feet, inward and limping when walking long distance, does not like to run because she gets tired easily. which sneakers, or orthotics do you recommend for her to wear.
Thank you,
Gina
Hello Gina,
In order to recommend specific shoes for your daughter I first need to know her exact foot shape (narrow, medium, wide, extra wide). I also need to know from which country you are contacting me to check what specific shoes are available in your area.
Recommendations for kids wearing SMOs for toe walking?
Hello Cindy.
Yes, take a look at the article below:
Shoes for SMOs – Extra Deep, Supportive, Flexible, and with Wider Openings!
If you want specific shoe recommendations based on your child’s foot shape feel free to reach out to me directly: fittingchildrensshoes@gmail.com
Do you recommend an insole for a ski boot? My son enjoys skiing but can’t stand the boots. Since his foot is growing I don’t want to pay for custom boots. Do you know of any way to make them more comfortable, perhaps using something like an insole?
Hello Jaysri,
I am not familiar with ski boots, but maybe I can guide you in the right direction. What specific part of the boot bothers your son’s feet? Do you know if your son’s ski boots have removable insoles?