Shoe Inserts for Sandals – Can You Fit an Orthotic Inside Your Kids’ Sandals?

July 11, 2025 Sandals Juan Valenzuela 2 - Comments

Is the weather warming up, and you’re ready to switch your child into summer sandals? If your child has foot conditions like flat feet, weak ankles, or low muscle tone, wearing sneakers with orthotics all summer isn’t the only option. Many parents wonder: Can orthotics fit inside kids’ sandals? The challenge is that most sandals are open and lack the structure needed to keep inserts securely in place. That’s why traditional shoes are usually recommended for orthotic use. However, the good news is that some orthopedic brands now design sandals with firm heel counters and supportive bases specifically to accommodate orthotics—so your child can stay cool and comfortable without sacrificing foot support.

Many parents feel unsure about managing their child’s foot conditions during summer. The reality is, most regular sandals lack the structure needed for proper support. Only orthopedic sandals offer the firm heel counters essential for treating foot issues—everyday sandals simply don’t provide that level of stability.

What is the Heel Counter of a Sandal?

The heel counter is the part of the sandal that wraps around the heel. It’s an essential component for providing stability and support. A firm heel counter can help keep the foot in place and prevent excessive movement, making it a crucial feature when choosing sandals for orthotics.

See how I’m pressing the back of this sandal? That’s the heel counter—the part that supports the ankle and holds orthotics in place. Notice how it bends easily? That’s why most kids’ sandals lack the firm support needed for foot stability.
Orthopedic sandal with firm heel counters.
Check out these orthopedic sandals by Memo! Unlike regular sandals, they feature a firm heel counter that offers great ankle support and keeps orthotics securely in place.

Shoe Inserts Don’t Work in Regular Sandals — Here’s Why!

First Reason: Orthotics tend to slide around inside open sandals, meaning your child won’t get the crucial support and stability they need from the inserts. Instead of helping, loose orthotics can cause discomfort and defeat the purpose of wearing them.

Second Reason: Regular sandals simply don’t offer ankle support because they’re built with soft heel counters that bend too easily. While some sandals may provide a bit of heel support, only orthopedic sandals are designed with sturdy heel counters and proper structure to support your child’s ankles and heels. If stability and protection are your priority, orthopedic options are the way to go.

Third Reason: Orthotics and inserts are likely to get wet in sandals, and once soaked, they can lose their shape, break down, or fall apart—making them ineffective and uncomfortable for your child.

Access My YouTube Video for Better Visualization Purposes

In this video, I answer the question of whether orthotics can be comfortably fitted inside your kids’ sandals. Many parents wonder about the feasibility and benefits of using orthotic inserts in sandals, especially during the warm months when open-toe footwear is preferred.

Throughout the video, I provide practical tips on selecting the right sandals that have features like firm heel counters and adjustable straps, which can make fitting orthotics easier. I also highlight some of the best orthotic-friendly sandals for kids currently available on the market.

A Shoe Fitter Perspective: You Have Two Scenarios

So, you might be asking yourself: What type of shoes should I provide for my children during the summertime that will offer good support for their feet?

First Scenario: If your child has a foot condition that absolutely requires wearing orthotics inside the sandals then you are going to have to invest in a pair of orthopedic sandals. These types of sandals are not cheap, but they are ideal for accommodating orthotics. If your doctor strongly recommend that your child wears orthotics inside the sandals or you want to have the peace of mind that your child’s feet are fully supported this summer, below you can find a list of orthopedic sandals that can accommodate orthotics.

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.

Supportive orthopedic sandal for kids with foot issues.
Supportive orthopedic sandals for kids.

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.

Pink orthopedic sandals for kids.
Orthopedic sandals for kids with foot problems.

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.

Orthopedic sandal with firm heel counters.
Orthopedic sandal with a stable base of support.

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

Second Scenario: If your child has a mild foot condition and is not experiencing any foot or leg pain a pair of regular supportive sandals that come with a substantial outsole that offers good support might suffice. If you want to go this route, I suggest that you choose one of the sandals below.

1. Psyclone by Teva

These supportive sandals for foot pain feature a soft, contoured footbed and adjustable straps for a secure fit.

Open toe Teva sandal for toddler boys with wide feet.
Open toe Teva sandal for toddler girls with wide feet.

Key Features

  • Order the sandal Psyclone XLT1 by Teva on Zappos or Amazon
  • Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet (fits high insteps)
  • Eva foam footbed cushions and softly supports
  • Rubber outsole for great traction
  • I suggest that you get this sandal a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

2. Seaturtle by Kamik

These open-toe sandals provide a cushioned footbed and adjustable straps. Their lightweight and flexible design makes it ideal for active children, while the durable outsole ensures long-lasting wear.

Pink sandal with three adjustable straps for kids who wear AFOs or SMOs.
Sandal with three adjustable straps for kids who wear AFOs or SMOs.

Key Features

  • Order the sandal Wander by Kamik on Amazon or Zappos
  • Fits medium and wide feet (fits high insteps)
  • Triple velcro straps for easy on and off
  • Quick drying moisture wicking lining
  • Vegan-friendly
  • I suggest that you get this sandal a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

3. Mogami by Birkenstock

Birkenstock is known for its exceptional arch support, and the Mogami sandal is no exception. It features a contoured cork footbed that provides excellent support for kids with foot pain.

Supportive sandal for girls with flat feet.

Key Features

  • Order the sandal Adventurous Light-Weight by Dream Pairs on Amazon or Zappos
  • Fits medium and wide feet
  • Triple hook-and-loop closure system for easy on and off
  • Excellent grip
  • Contoured PU footbed
  • I suggest that you get this sandal a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

4. Newport by Keen

These Keen sandals with arch support provide a supportive footbeds and adjustable straps. Its durable construction and reliable traction make it suitable for various activities, from hiking to beach outings. This is one of my go-to sandals for kids with flat feet.

Supportive-navy-blue-Keen-sandal-for-kids
Pink Newport sandal for girls.

Key Features

  • Order the sandal Newport H2 by Keen on Zappos or Amazon
  • Fits medium and wide feet
  • This internal support mechanism is anatomically engineered to provide excellent arch support
  • Machine washable
  • I suggest that you get this sandal a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

5. Hurricane by Teva

These open toe sandals with arch support for kids with foot pain feature a lightweight, water-friendly design with an adjustable fit.

Supportive red Teva sandal for kids with wide feet.
Supportive purple Teva sandal for girls with wide feet.

Key Features

  • Order the sandal Hurricane by Teva on Zappos or Amazon
  • Fits medium and wide feet
  • This internal support mechanism is anatomically engineered to provide excellent arch support
  • Machine washable
  • I suggest that you get this sandal a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

Get in Touch with Any Questions

As a shoe fitter with years of experience, I understand the challenges parents face when choosing the right footwear for their children. If you have any questions or need personalized recommendations, feel free to get in touch. I’m here to help you find the perfect pair of sandals for your child’s needs.