Pronation Vs Supination Foot – The Most Effective Method to Improve the Way Your Child Walks!

May 22, 2025 Overpronation Juan Valenzuela 0 - Comments

Has your child been complaining about foot or leg pain, or are you noticing changes in how they walk or run? Many parents struggle to tell the difference between pronation and supination, but understanding the difference is key—each requires a different type of shoe support. The right balance between pronation and supination is essential for healthy foot mechanics, and imbalances can impact your child’s entire body—from the feet to the knees, hips, and back. Since children are still growing, addressing these issues early is crucial to preventing long-term posture and gait problems. Let me help you identify what’s going on and guide you toward the best footwear solution for your child.

Foot Pronation vs Supination – Do These Images Look Familiar?

An image of a child with flat feet showing mild to moderate pronation. While some pronation is completely normal, this image highlights how excessive inward rolling—known as overpronation—can impact foot alignment and posture.
An image of a child with high arches displaying signs of supination, also known as under-pronation. This condition is the opposite of overpronation, where the feet roll outward with each step, often leading to uneven weight distribution and less shock absorption.

Can the Right Shoes Help Correct Your Child’s Pronation or Supination?

Absolutely. The right pair of supportive shoes can make a world of difference for children with pronation or supination issues. Proper footwear helps realign the feet, prevents them from rolling inward or outward, and encourages straighter walking and running—ultimately improving posture. While only a few children’s shoes offer the necessary support and structure, I’m here to help you find the best options.

What a Difference the Correct Types of Shoes Can Make!

child-with-flat-feet-wearing-unsupportive-shoes
Before image of a child with flat feet and noticeable pronation while wearing unsupportive Nike shoes — the feet are rolling inward due to the lack of proper arch and heel support.
supportive-shoes-with-straight-lasts-for-children-with-flat-feet
After image of the same child wearing supportive New Balance shoes — notice how much straighter and more aligned the feet appear, thanks to the enhanced arch and heel support.
Child with high arches is putting extra pressure on the outer part of his feet.
An image of an older child standing barefoot, clearly showing high arches and outward-rolling feet — a common sign of supination that can impact balance and walking posture.
Child with high arches wears supportive shoes to help improve his foot posture.
An image of the same child now wearing supportive Asics shoes, designed to enhance stability and improve foot alignment — notice how the structured design helps correct the outward roll caused by supination.

These aren’t orthopedic shoes — they’re everyday running shoes that just happen to offer superior support and structure compared to most others.

Pronation Vs Supination: Analyzing the Differences

Understanding the differences between pronation and supination is essential in selecting the right footwear for your child. These two foot movements, although natural, require specific shoe features to support and correct any imbalances.

Key Features of Shoes for Kids with Pronation

  • Stable Base of Support A supportive outsole can help guide the foot into a more neutral position. This support reduces the strain on the inner foot, promoting better alignment throughout the leg.
  • Stability: Look for shoes with a wide base to provide extra stability. A wider base offers a more stable platform for the foot, minimizing excessive inward rolling.
  • Motion Control: Some shoes have built-in technology to limit excessive rolling inward. These features can help manage the foot’s movement, ensuring that it follows a more neutral path during activity.

Best Shoes for Kids with PRONATION – My Top Picks in 2025

In the quest for the perfect shoe, here are my top picks for 2025 that cater to children with pronation or supination issues. These recommendations are based on the latest advancements in footwear technology and design, ensuring that your child receives optimal support and comfort.

1. Shoe Style 990v6 by New Balance

These are the best shoes for pronation. 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, 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 orthopedic shoes for pronation 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 pronation.

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 for pronation offer excellent support and a comfortable fit, making them a top choice for kids with flat feet.

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 flat feet and pronation. 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 Cohesion by Saucony

These shoes are ideal for kids with flat feet, 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

6. 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 flat feet. 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

7. Shoe Style 2002 by New Balance

These New Balance shoes for pronated feet are another great option for flat-footed children 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

8. Shoe Style Cross Em Up by Adidas

These Adidas basketball shoes for pronation offer great support for flat-footed kids. 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

9. Shoe Style GT-1000 by Asics

These are the best running shoes for pronation, ideal 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

Has Your Child Been Diagnosed with Supination?

Supination is the opposite of pronation—it’s when your child’s feet roll outward as they walk. Kids with high arches are especially prone to supination, which means they often walk on the outer edges of their feet.

High arches naturally encourage this outward roll, but supination can also stem from weak foot muscles. This weakness often develops when kids wear shoes that lack proper support or don’t fit well, making the problem worse over time.

Key Features of Shoes for Kids with Supination:

  • Cushioning: Ample cushioning helps with shock absorption, reducing the impact on the foot. Proper cushioning can also alleviate pressure on the joints, making each step more comfortable.
  • Flexibility: Flexible shoes allow natural foot motion and help prevent injury. This flexibility ensures that the foot can move without restriction, promoting a more natural gait.
  • Neutral Heel: A neutral heel encourages even weight distribution. This feature helps in maintaining balance and reducing excessive strain on specific parts of the foot.

Best Shoes for Kids with SUPINATION – My Top Picks in 2025

With superior cushioning and flexibility, these runners are ideal for kids with high arches. They absorb impact effectively, reducing the stress on the outer foot and enhancing overall comfort.

1. Shoe Style 990v6 by New Balance

These are the best New Balance shoes for supination as the robust outsole helps distribute weight evenly across the foot and reduces strain on the muscles and joints.

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

  • Order the 990v6 with laces on the New Balance website, Amazon, or Zappos
  • Available for toddlers, little, and big kids
  • 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 Kinvara by Saucony

These Saucony shoes for supination are lightweight and offer excellent cushioning and flexibility. It’s perfect for kids who enjoy running and other high-impact activities.

Saucony orange running shoes for kids.
Saucony teal running shoes for girls.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style Kinvara by Saucony on Amazon
  • Available in medium and wide widths
  • Foam padding placed around the ankle collar and under the tongue
  • Comfort sockliner molds to your foot with padding in the heel for ultimate cushioning at heel-strike
  • Engineered mesh for structure, stretch and enhanced breathability
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

3. Shoe Style Cumulus by Asics

These narrow Asics shoes for supination offer a snug fit with a focus on cushioning, making them ideal for everyday wear.

Supportive Asics Cumulus running shoe for girls.
Asics kids Cumulus supportive running shoe for boys.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe Gel-Noosa by Asics on Amazon or Zappos
  • Available for little and big kids
  • Engineered mesh upper: Improves breathability
  • Fits narrow feet
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

4. Shoe Style Gel-Excite by Asics

These running shoes for supination offer excellent cushioning and support.

Supportive Asics Gel-Excite running shoe for girls.
Supportive Asics Gel-Excite running shoe for boys.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style Gel-Excite by Asics on Amazon
  • Available for little and big kids
  • Fits narrow feet
  • GEL technology: Improves impact absorption and creates a softer feeling at footstrike
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

5. Shoe Style 2002 by New Balance

These New Balance shoes for supination are another great option for children 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

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

6. Shoe Style Cross Em Up by Adidas

These Adidas basketball shoes for supination offer great support 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

  • Order the shoe Cross Em Up Select by Adidas on Zappos or Amazon
  • Available for little and big kids
  • Available in medium and wide widths
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

7. Shoe Style GT-1000 by Asics

These Asics running shoes for supination are 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 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

How to Tell If Your Child Has Foot Problems

Wondering if your child might have underlying foot issues? Knowing what signs to watch for can help you catch problems early and take action. Here are some common red flags:

  • Your child often complains of tired or achy feet and legs.
  • They frequently ask to be carried or pushed in a stroller, even for short distances.
  • They resist walking or seem reluctant to stay on their feet.
  • They appear clumsy, trip often, or seem uncoordinated.
  • They avoid sports or active play.
  • You notice unusual wear on the soles of their shoes.

If any of these sound familiar, it could be time to take a closer look at your child’s foot health.

When Supportive Shoes Are Not Enough: Try Orthotics

Sometimes, supportive shoes alone may not be sufficient. In such cases, orthotics can offer additional support and alignment, providing targeted support that can correct alignment issues and enhance comfort.

Best Orthotics for Children with Pronation or Supination

The right orthotics can make a big difference in your child’s posture and help relieve—or even eliminate—the strain placed on their knees and hip joints. While I won’t dive into all the details here, I’ve written helpful guides that break down the best orthotics for children with pronation or supination. If your child is struggling with foot alignment, those articles are a great place to start.

Contact Me for Tailored Shoe Recommendations

If you’re unsure about the best shoes for your child, feel free to reach out for personalized recommendations. As an experienced shoe fitter, I’m here to help you find the perfect pair based on your child’s unique foot shape and condition.

Whether you contact me via email or through the comments section below, I’m committed to providing you with the resources and guidance you need to ensure your child’s feet are well-supported. Through personalized consultation, I can assess your child’s specific needs and recommend footwear options that best suit their requirements.