Pigeon Toe Treatment – The Proven Method to Stop Pigeon Toe in Kids

Did you know that one of the most effective ways to treat pigeon toe in children is by simply wearing the right pair of supportive shoes? Pigeon toe, also known as in-toeing, is a common condition where a child’s feet point inward instead of straight ahead. While it often improves on its own, leaving it untreated can lead to muscle strain and long-term gait issues. Through my years of fitting children’s shoes, I’ve found that the best treatment often starts with shoes that feature firm heel counters and straight lasts to help improve alignment and posture. Addressing the condition early with proper footwear can make a big difference in your child’s comfort and development.

Can You Fix Pigeon Toe in Children with Supportive Shoes?

Supportive shoes can make a world of difference in your child’s posture, helping them walk and run with better alignment. While they may not completely correct pigeon toe, they’re one of the most effective and non-invasive ways to improve it. Over the years, I’ve personally seen how the right pair of shoes can transform a child’s gait and boost their confidence. Don’t just take my word for it—let me show you the difference the right shoes can make!

Pigeon Toe Treatment – What a Difference a Shoe Can Make!

Take a look at this photo of a child standing barefoot—can you spot how the feet turn inward instead of facing straight ahead? This inward stance is a clear sign of pigeon-toeing.
Now take a look at this image of the same child wearing a pair of supportive shoes I recommend—notice how much straighter the feet appear? The right shoes can make a noticeable difference in alignment and posture.

Such visual evidence highlights the impact that the right footwear can have on a child’s development.

Key Features of Supportive Shoes for Pigeon Toes

supportive-shoes-for-children-with-flat-feet
Feature One: Stable Base of Support. A stable base provides the foundation that supports your child’s natural gait and helps align their feet properly. Shoes with a broad and stable base can help mitigate the effects of pigeon toe. This foundation is crucial as it provides the balance needed during walking and running, reducing the risk of trips and falls.
children's-shoes-with-heel-support
Feature Two: Firm Heel Counters. This feature offers crucial support to the heel and help in maintaining the correct foot alignment. This feature is essential in preventing excessive inward rolling of the feet. The heel counter acts like a guide, ensuring that the heel stays aligned with the rest of the foot during movement.
children's-shoes-with-straight-lasts
Feature Three: Straight Lasts. This feature in shoes encourage a more natural foot movement and are particularly beneficial for children with pigeon toe, as they promote proper alignment during walking.

How Can Parents Tell If Their Kids Are Pigeon Toed?

Many parents ask me how to tell if their child is pigeon-toed, especially since some cases are harder to spot than others. One of the best ways to identify it is by watching how your child walks—do the feet turn inward instead of pointing straight ahead? Another helpful clue is to inspect the soles of their shoes; unusual or uneven wear patterns, especially on the inner edges, can be a strong indicator of pigeon toe.

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Here’s a great visual example: let’s compare a well-worn shoe from a child with pigeon toes to a brand-new one. Notice how the shoe on the left is tilting inward? That inward collapse reveals how the child’s feet are turning in as they walk, rather than pointing straight ahead—classic signs of pigeon toe.

I’m not a doctor, but I’ve helped fit shoes and orthotics for hundreds of children with pigeon toe at the children’s shoe store where I work. Over the years, I’ve learned firsthand which shoes and orthotics actually make a difference—through real experience, not guesswork. Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase.

Best Shoes for Pigeon Toe Treatment to Improve Foot Posture and Balance

When it comes to choosing the right shoes for a child with pigeon toe, here are my top recommendations for 2025:

1. Shoe Style 990v6 by New Balance

These are the absolute best shoes for pigeon toes. The robust outsoles help distribute weight evenly across the foot and reduce 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, black, 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 corrective shoes for pigeon toes 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 foot conditions.

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 pigeon toes.

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. It offers solid support and cushioning, making it suitable for kids with in-toeing. 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

These shoes are ideal for kids with foot problems, as they offer excellent cushioning and stability. 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 is a versatile shoe that provides a soft and comfortable fit while supporting your child’s foot conditions. 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 New Balance shoes for intoeing are another great option 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 for kids with intoeing. 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. 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

Reach Out for Personalized Shoe Recommendations

As a shoe fitter, my goal is to help families find the perfect pair of shoes for their children. If you need personalized recommendations, feel free to reach out. I can guide you based on your child’s specific foot shape and condition.

Families Testimonials – Get Inspired!

Many families have shared positive feedback after trying the shoes I recommend. Parents often notice improvements in their child’s walking pattern and report reduced discomfort.

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The Importance of Ordering the Correct Shoe Size

You could buy the most supportive, high-quality shoes—but if they don’t fit your child’s foot shape properly, they won’t deliver the benefits you’re counting on. A poor fit can cancel out all the support and stability the shoe is designed to provide. That’s why it’s essential to get your child’s size right. To make things easier for parents, I created a virtual shoe fitting service that helps you determine your child’s exact shoe size and foot shape from the comfort of your home.

Does Pigeon Toe Go Away? – Be Proactive!

Catching and addressing pigeon toe early is key to keeping your child’s feet and legs healthy as they grow. While many cases improve with time and proper footwear, in-toeing that persists past age 9 or 10 may require surgical intervention. That’s why it’s so important to pay close attention to the way your child walks—early detection allows for early treatment. Supportive shoes can make a big difference, and if there’s no noticeable improvement after 3 to 5 months, your child might benefit from orthotics to further support alignment and gait.

I always stress to parents: never overlook your child’s foot or leg pain. When discomfort arises, the first step is often a well-fitting pair of supportive shoes designed to ease strain and improve alignment. But if the pain continues despite proper footwear, it may be time to explore orthotics as an added solution to provide the extra support your child needs to move comfortably and confidently.

Orthotics for Pigeon Toe – Extra Support and Stability

If you try a pair of the shoes I recommend and don’t see an improvement in your child’s posture and gait, it might be time to add orthotics for extra support and stability. The good news? You don’t always need expensive custom orthotics. I’ve created a helpful guide that breaks down the best orthotic options to effectively treat pigeon toe in kids—so you can find the right fit without the guesswork.