Shoes for CMT – The Best Shoes for Kids with Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease
Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease affects countless children worldwide, causing muscle weakness, foot deformities, and balance challenges due to damage to the peripheral nerves. For kids living with CMT, finding the right shoes isn’t just about comfort—it’s essential for support, stability, and maintaining mobility. The best shoes for CMT help improve walking gait, posture, and reduce the risk of injuries. Many children with CMT also have high arches or conditions like hammer toes, so choosing footwear with extra depth and a roomy, rounded toe box is key to avoiding discomfort and further complications.
My Experience Fitting Children’s Shoes and Orthotics
At the shoe store where I work, we often receive referrals from physical and occupational therapists who trust us to help children find the right shoes and orthotics. It’s incredible to see the difference the proper footwear makes—not only in how kids walk and run, but also in easing the foot and leg pain they may be dealing with. The right shoes truly transform comfort and mobility.
The Importance of Acting Early
I have been told by different doctors how a treatment that is introduced early in children with CMT is most effective, as it will be easier to slow this disease progression than to reverse it once it’s already in place. Wearing the correct type of shoes is really important for children with CMT, but many parents struggle to find well-fitting shoes for their kids because of their high-arched feet and hammer toes.
Symptoms of CMT – Keep an Eye on How Your Child Walks!
The symptoms of CMT vary widely among children. Some experience mild symptoms, while others face significant challenges. Parents need to understand these variations to best support their children. Early signs often include foot drop, high arches, and claw toes.
Why Proper Footwear Matters for Kids with CMT
Proper footwear is vital for children with CMT. Wearing the right shoes can help improve balance and stability, reducing the risk of falls and injuries.
It’s important to note that the weakness of your kids’ muscles might lead to painful foot deformities, difficulty walking and climbing stairs, and injuries as a result of trips and falls. Deeper and wider shoes can also help prevent the bunions from rubbing against the shoes.
Best Shoes for Kids With CMT – Supportive and Extra Deep
Choosing the right shoes for children with CMT can greatly impact their comfort and mobility. Below are my top picks for the best shoes for CMT. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
1. Shoe Style 990v6 by New Balance
These are the absolute best shoes for Charcot Marie Tooth Disease. 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.
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 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.
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 Charcot Marie Tooth Disease.
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 foot conditions. The shoe is offered at a lower price point.
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.
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.
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.
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 Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease are another great option at a more affordable price point than the 990v6.
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. The versatility of the shoe makes it suitable for both sports and everyday wear, adding value for parents looking for multi-functional footwear.
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.
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
If you opt for lace-up shoes, be sure your child’s laces are always snug and secure to maximize the support and stability the shoes provide.
The Importance of Wearing Shoes in the Correct Size
Choosing the right shoe size for children with Charcot-Marie-Tooth is vital. Shoes that fit poorly can lead to pain and hinder foot development. Correct sizing ensures children gain full benefits from their footwear.
Before you order shoes online, it’s crucial to know your child’s exact foot size. That’s why I created a virtual shoe fitting service to help you measure your child’s feet from the comfort of home. With this tool, you’ll discover whether your child has narrow, medium, wide, or extra wide feet—and I can even help determine if they have a high instep, ensuring the perfect fit every time.
The Best Orthotics for Children with CMT – Extra Support for Their Feet!
When it comes to orthotics, I always encourage parents to consult with their child’s physical or occupational therapist for personalized recommendations. Getting your child evaluated for orthotics is incredibly important—it can make a huge difference in comfort, mobility, and overall quality of life. Even if it means traveling a bit farther, it’s worth the effort! Many of our customers drive over an hour just to ensure their kids are properly fitted with the right shoes and orthotics. If you’re feeling uncertain about which orthotic to choose, the one below has been a great solution for many children with CMT.
The design of LittleSteps orthotics helps to guide the foot into a more natural position, reducing strain and improving function. This correction not only alleviates immediate discomfort but also supports proper foot development.
1. Order littleSTEPS® Orthotics from their official website. You must submit a Referral Code to complete your order: JVFCS100121
2. It’s not necessary to remove the original insoles of the shoes when fitting this orthotic.
3. The 3/4 length design makes it easier to fit into various shoe styles.
4. Take a look at this chart to figure out what size to order based on your child’s shoe size.
If you’re considering trying this orthotic, I recommend bringing it—along with your child’s shoes—to your local physical or occupational therapist. Let them observe your child walking to ensure the shoes and orthotics work well together and provide the best support for your child’s needs.
Get in Touch for a Personalized Suggestion
Children’s shoe needs can vary depending on their foot shape and any specific foot conditions they may have. If you have any questions or need any further assistance, you can also contact me via email, and I will get back to you as soon as possible. I am happy to help you find a different pair of shoes for your child, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.
Excellent article. Thanks!
Hello Damaris,
I am glad that you find the article informative!