Shoes for SMOs – Extra Deep, Supportive, Flexible, and with Wider Openings!

December 8, 2024 SMOs Juan Valenzuela 4 - Comments

Has your child been diagnosed with a foot condition that requires wearing SMOs and you are having the hardest time finding comfortable shoes? SMOs help provide additional support and heel stabilization and are usually prescribed for children who need extra support and stability. I have been fitting children’s shoes and orthotics for over a decade, and for SMOs to be effective, they must be paired with the right shoes. Shoes for SMOs should be lightweight and act as a supportive foundation, ensuring the orthoses function correctly.

How Shoes and SMOs Work Together

Supportive shoes for SMOs help achieve optimal foot positioning, enhance walking efficiency, and reduce the risk of injury. Shoes that are specifically designed to accommodate SMOs ensure that the orthoses remain in place, providing consistent support throughout the day.

An image of a supportive high-top brown Stride Rite bootie for toddlers who wear SMOs.

The Importance of Lightweight Yet Supportive Shoes

Lightweight shoes are crucial because they reduce fatigue, allowing children to move freely and comfortably throughout the day. When paired with SMOs, lightweight shoes ensure the child does not feel additional weight, which could hinder their mobility. Furthermore, lightweight shoes can help prevent any additional strain on the muscles and joints, promoting healthier movement patterns.

Key Features to Look for in Kids’ Shoes for SMOS

The goal is to find a shoe that complements the SMO, enhancing its corrective function without restricting movement. Flexibility in the forefoot area is particularly important as it allows the child’s foot to bend naturally during walking, which is vital for developing proper walking mechanics.

1. Stable Base of Support: The shoes must provide a substantial outsole to hold the SMO in place and support your child’s feet at the same time.

Supportive New Balance kids' shoe vs an unsupportive Nike shoe.
You can check if your kids’ shoes provide a stable base of support by pressing on the middle part of the shoe.

2. Flexible and Lightweight: The shoes must be supportive, but lightweight and flexible at the same time to prevent your child’s feet and legs from easily getting tired.

New Balance kids' shoe with the correct amount of flexibility vs Nike kids' shoe that is too flexible and unsupportive.
The difference in flexibility between a Nike shoe that flexes as a spiral (left image) and a New Balance shoe with the correct amount of flexibility (right image).

3. Extra Deep: This feature allows the SMO to fit deeply inside the shoes. The deeper the SMO sits inside the shoes, the more comfortable your child will feel. This feature can drastically increase your child’s comfort and prevent your child from getting the impression that his/her feet are coming out of the shoes.

A New Balance kids' shoe with extra depth for a child who wears orthotics vs a Nike shoe that is not deep enough to accommodate orthotics.
The difference in depth between a Nike shoe (left image) and a New Balance shoe (right image).

4. Round Toe-Boxes (optional): The importance of this feature varies depending on whether your child is wearing the SMO with a footplate that extends beyond the toes or not. If your child is wearing an SMO with a footplate that extends beyond the toes this feature is of extreme importance to prevent the front part of the SMO from destroying the shoes.

Difference between a New Balance shoe with a round toe-box and a Nike shoe with a pointier toe-box.
The difference in toe-boxes between a Nike shoe (left image) and a New Balance shoe (right image).

5. Firm Heel Counters: This feature provides additional heel and ankle support as well as heel stabilization.

New Balance shoe with a firm heel counter for kids with heel pain vs a Nike shoe with a soft heel counter.
The difference in heel support between a Nike shoe (left image) and a New Balance shoe (right image).

6. Wider Opening for Easy On & Off: This feature allows parents to easily slide the SMOs inside the shoes so they don’t have to struggle every time they have to put on the SMOs.

A See Kai Run shoe with oversized openings for children who wear orthotics vs a Tsukihoshi shoe that is not wide or deep enough to accommodate orthotics.
A pair of See Kai Run shoes with double Velcro straps with oversized openings.

I know this might sound like a lot, but finding a shoe that provides all of those features is not as hard as it sounds. I am actually going to make things easier for you and provide you with a list of adaptive shoes for SMOs. Disclosure: Some links in this post may be affiliate links and we may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) when you click our links and make purchases.

Best Shoes for Kids with SMOs to Improve Balance and Posture

There isn’t one perfect shoe that works for every child. With that said, the shoes I recommend are the ones I have fitted over the years and have proven to work best for SMOs.

1. 990v6 by New Balance with Laces

The New Balance 990v6 model is the deepest and most supportive New Balance shoe. Available in wide and extra wide widths means that you won’t have to get the shoes overly large to accommodate the SMOs. Parents report positive feedback on how these shoes accommodate SMOs and are durable.

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.
  • Also available in pink and navy blue.
  • Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths.
  •  The lace-up design provides a secure fit, which is essential when accommodating orthotic devices.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than the end of the AFO/SMO footplate.

990 Series with Velcro

New Balance 990v6 toddler shoe in black and grey and with velcro closure.
Durable 990 New Balance Kids' Shoes in Pink and Velcro.
  • You can order the 990v6 with velcro on the New Balance website, Amazon, or Zappos.
  • Also available in grey and black.
  • Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than the end of the AFO/SMO footplate.

2. Dean Adapt II by See Kai Run

See Kai Run offers an adaptable line for kids who wear SMOs with shoes that provide extra long straps and extra depth to allow the SMOs to sit deeply inside of the shoes. These shoes have a lightweight design, and are one of the best adaptive shoes for SMOs.

See Kai Run kids adapt for kids who wear AFOs.
See Kai Run kids adapt for girls who wear AFOs.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers and little kids.
  • Order the shoe style Dean Adapt II by See Kai Run on Zappos or Amazon.
  • Not available in wide or extra wide widths but fits naturally wide.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than the end of the AFO/SMO footplate.

3. Shoe style Holly Mary Jane by Stride Rite

Stride Rite has an adaptable line and one of its most popular shoes for SMOs is a stylish Mary Jane that parents love because their children can use it for casual wear or dressier occasions. Its adjustable strap and cushioned footbed make it perfect for children with SMOs, providing the necessary support for everyday activities.

Stride Rite Holly Mary Jane in gold for girls.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers and little kids.
  • Order the shoe style SR Holly by Stride Rite on Zappos or Amazon.
  • Available in extra wide widths.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than the end of the AFO/SMO footplate.

4. Ikiki Shoes

Ikiki shoes are designed with a focus on functionality and fun. They feature a wide toe box that supports natural foot movement, and many of their designs include playful characters and bright colors that toddlers love. These shoes are lightweight, making them an excellent option for active kids.

Ikiki shoes for toddlers with wide feet.
Ikiki shoes for kids who wear AFOs.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers and little kids.
  • Order the shoe style by Ikiki on Amazon.
  • Not available in wide or extra wide widths but fits naturally wide.
  • Wide opening to make it easy to put on and take off shoes.
  • Synthetic Vegan Leather.
  • Squeaks can be turned on/off with a switch.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than the end of the AFO/SMO footplate.

5. Shoe Style M2P Journey 3.0 Adapt by Stride Rite

These sneakers are part of the Stride Rite adaptable line and come with extra long velcro straps and are available in extra wide widths. The shoe’s versatility makes it suitable for various activities, from playground adventures to family outings.

Stride Rite M2P Journey 3.0 Adapt in pink for toddler girls.
Stride Rite M2P Journey 3.0 Adapt in grey for toddler boys.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers and little kids.
  • Order the shoe style M2P Journey Adapt by Stride Rite on Zappos or Amazon.
  • Available in extra wide widths.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than the end of the AFO/SMO footplate.

6. Billy Shoes for SMOs

Billy Shoes for SMOs have become a favorite among families. Their unique zipper design allows for easy on-and-off, which is especially beneficial for kids with SMOs.

Pink Billy shoes for girls who wear AFOs.
Black-Billy-shoes-for-kids-who-wear-AFOs

Key Features

  • Available for little and big kids.
  • Order the shoe style Classic DR High II by Billy on Zappos or Amazon.
  • Available in extra wide widths.
  • Leather upper.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than the end of the AFO/SMO footplate.

7. Shoe Style Gabi by Memo (Orthopedic Shoe for SMOs)

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. The Gabi model provides excellent ankle stability and arch support, making it a top choice for kids with SMOs.

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.
  • 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 the end of the AFO/SMO footplate.

Keep in mind that shoes with shoelaces help provide better support and stability. They will also help prevent your child’s heels from sliding out of the shoes as well as keep the SMO in place.

Personalized Shoe Recommendations from a Shoe Fitter

As a shoe fitter, I understand that every child is unique, and so are their footwear needs. Personalized recommendations can make a significant difference in finding the perfect pair of shoes for your child.

Each child’s foot shape, size, and specific requirements must be taken into account to ensure the best fit and function. For specific shoe recommendations, make sure to include in your email whether your child is wearing an SMO with a footplate that extends beyond the toes or not: fittingchildrensshoes@gmail.com

What Shoe Size Should You Order?

Determining the correct shoe size is crucial for comfort and effectiveness. Too tight, and the shoes can cause discomfort and impede movement; too loose, and they can lead to instability. 

If your child wears SMOs with a full footplate, I suggest that you order the shoes a half size bigger than the end of the footplate. This translates to 3/16 of an inch or 0.4 centimeters of space between the end of the SMO footplate and the end of the shoes.

If your child doesn’t wear the SMOs with the full footplate, then I suggest that you order the shoes a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size, which translates to 3/8 of an inch or 0.8 centimeters of space between your child’s longest toe and the end of the shoes.

The Problem of Buying Bigger Shoes for Your Child’s SMOs

Simply increasing your child’s shoe size by a full size or two to accommodate the SMO is unacceptable and let me explain to you why. One of the most common reasons why children need to wear SMOs is to improve their stability. However, if you provide your child with shoes that are way too big, you’re stealing that stability right back.

Child with stability issues keeps falling due to wearing shoes that are too big.
An image of a child with stability issues from wearing shoes that are too big.

Find Out Exactly What Shoe Size to Order Online

I came up with a virtual fitting system to help those families who are unsure about what shoe size they need to order for their child’s SMOs. My method takes four simple steps and shouldn’t take you longer than a minute to do, and you will have the peace of mind that you are ordering the correct shoe size for your child’s SMOs.

Are There Any Special Considerations for Winter Footwear?

For colder months, look for deep boots that offer both warmth and support. Ensure they have enough room to accommodate the SMOs and check that they provide good traction to prevent slips on icy surfaces. In addition, boots that have multiple Velcro straps are a lot easier to get on and off.

A pair of kids' snow boots with triple Velcro straps for easy on and off.
A pair of kids’ winter boots with triple Velcro straps for easy on and off.

What About Summer Shoes for SMOs?

When choosing summer shoes for kids with SMOs, consider options with lightweight materials and plenty of ventilation. Look for sandals with open designs that still offer support, such as sandals with reinforced outsoles.

Pink sandal with three adjustable straps for kids who wear AFOs or SMOs.
A pair of kids’ sandals with triple Velcro straps for easy on and off.

Sandals with adjustable straps can be a great choice, as they allow for easy customization of fit. These sandals often come with cushioned footbeds that provide comfort without sacrificing support. 

How to Lace Your Kids’ Shoes to Secure the SMOs

If you decide to get your child a pair of shoes with shoelaces, there is a specific shoe lacing technique that I strongly recommend doing as it will secure and support your child’s heels and prevent them from slipping off the shoes.

Certain SMOs Take More Space Than Others

I have fitted two different types of SMOs. It’s important to note that there are SMOs that have footplates that extend beyond the toes while some others are cut back in a specific way. Let me help you visualize the difference between two SMOs with different footplates.

➡️ In this first image, the SMO footplate extends beyond the toes. If your child wears this type of SMO it gets a little more challenging to find shoes that fit, as we need to consider the depth as well as the shape of the front part of the shoes.

An image of an SMO with a footplate that extends over the toes.

➡️ In the second image, the SMO footplate is cut back. If your child wears this type of SMO the footwear options won’t be as limited as you think.

An image of an SMO without a footplate that extends over the toes.

Are SMOs Easier to Fit Than AFOs?

SMO stands for Supra-Malleolar Orthosis. The difference between an SMO and an AFO is that the SMO is a lot shorter and less bulky. SMOs take less space than AFOS, so they are a little easier to fit over shoes.

Final Thoughts

As a shoe fitter, I am here to assist you in making the best choices for your child’s unique needs. By investing in the right footwear, you are providing a foundation for healthy development and an active lifestyle, paving the way for your child to thrive in their daily activities.

Choosing the correct type of shoes in the correct size is the only way your child will get the full benefits of the SMOs. I am not here to restrict the type of shoes your child should wear with SMOs. I understand how important it is for children to be able to wear shoes that they like, but at the same time, I feel I have a responsibility to tell you if a shoe is doing more damage than good. Moreover, you are investing money and time in an SMO so you might as well get the full benefits that the SMOs have to offer.