Best Shoes for SMOs: Extra Depth Without Sizing Up
Last Updated: August 2026 | Juan Valenzuela, Certified Children’s Shoe Fitter
It can be challenging and time-consuming to find the correct pair of shoes if your child wears SMOs. The good news is that depending on which type of SMO device your child wears, it might be a lot easier to find shoes that fit than you’d expect. Here are the best shoes for SMOs, based on my many years of shoe fitting experience.
What Is an SMO?
SMO stands for Supra-Malleolar Orthosis. The difference between an SMO and an AFO is that the SMO is a lot shorter, and is usually prescribed for children with soft, flexible, flat feet. SMOs help provide additional support and heel stabilization, and are commonly prescribed for:
- Strong pronation or supination
- Foot or ankle instability
- Hypotonia (low muscle tone)
I’ve been fitting children’s shoes and orthotics for the last 10 years at a specialized children’s shoe store that focuses on helping kids with complex foot shapes and foot or leg conditions. Medical professionals regularly refer children who wear SMOs and AFOs to our store for proper fittings, and over the years I’ve gotten to know which shoes actually work.
Certain SMOs Take Up More Space Than Others
I’ve fitted two different types of SMOs, and it’s worth knowing the difference upfront. Some SMOs have footplates that extend beyond the toes; others are cut back in a specific way.
Footplate extends beyond the toes: finding shoes gets a little more challenging, since you need to account for both depth and the shape of the front of the shoe.
Footplate is cut back: footwear options are much less limited than you’d expect.
What Shoes Work Best with SMOs?
I’m not here to restrict what your child wears — I understand how much it matters for kids to like their own shoes. But I do feel a responsibility to tell you honestly if a shoe is doing more harm than good. You’re investing real time and money in your child’s SMO, so it’s worth getting the full benefit from it.
1. A substantial outsole — holds the SMO in place while still supporting your child’s foot.
2. Flexible and lightweight — supportive without being so rigid that it tires out your child’s feet and legs.
3. Extra depth — lets the SMO sit deeply inside the shoe. The deeper it sits, the more comfortable your child will feel, and the less likely they are to feel like their foot is coming out of the shoe.
4. A round toe box (optional) — this matters most if your child’s SMO has a footplate that extends beyond the toes, since it helps prevent that front edge from wearing through the shoe. If your child’s SMO footplate is cut back, this feature matters less.
5. A firm heel counter — provides additional heel and ankle support and helps with heel stabilization.
6. A wider opening for easy on and off — lets you slide the SMO into the shoe without a daily struggle.
Don’t Panic — Plenty of Shoes Deliver on These Key Features
That’s a lot to look for, but finding a shoe that checks every box isn’t as hard as it sounds. Below is my list of shoes that consistently deliver. Disclosure: some links below are affiliate links — I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you click and purchase.
The Problem with Buying Bigger Shoes for SMOs
Before the list — it’s worth understanding why sizing up a size and a half or more is a real mistake, not just an inconvenience.
One of the most common reasons children wear SMOs is to improve stability. If you put your child in shoes that are way too big to compensate, you’re taking that stability right back.
The shoes below are all capable of accommodating an SMO while still providing the support and flexibility your child needs to walk and run confidently.
Best Shoes for Kids with SMOs
There isn’t one perfect shoe that works for every child, but these are the ones I’ve fitted repeatedly over the years and have proven to work well for SMOs specifically.
990v6 by New Balance
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.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids
- Order with laces on the New Balance website or Amazon
- Velcro version also available on the New Balance website or Amazon
- Ideal for an SMO with a footplate that extends over the toes
- Accommodates medium, wide, or extra wide feet
- Firm heel counters, stable base of support, and semi-straight lasts
- Ideal for moderate to strong cases of pronation
- Removable insoles
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 orthotics to sit deeply inside of the shoes. These shoes have a lightweight design.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers and little kids
- Order on Amazon
- Ideal for an SMO with a footplate that extends over the toes
- The adaptive shoe’s extra long hook and loop strap offers a secure and custom fit
- Not available in wide or extra wide widths but fits naturally wide
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.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers and little kids
- Order on Amazon
- Ideal for an SMO with a shorter, cut-back footplate
- The adaptive shoe’s extra long hook and loop strap offers a secure and custom fit
- Available in extra wide widths
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.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers and little kids
- Order on Amazon
- Ideal for an SMO with a shorter, cut-back footplate
- 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
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.
Key Features
- Available for little and big kids
- Order on Amazon
- Accommodates wide or extra wide feet
- Ideal for an SMO with a footplate that extends over the toes
- APMA approved
- Leather upper
- Ideal for mild cases of pronation
Billy Shoes
Billy Shoes have become a favorite among families with children who wear SMOs. Their unique zipper design allows for easy on-and-off, making them a convenient choice for both parents and children.
Key Features
- Available for little and big kids
- Order on Amazon
- Ideal for an SMO with a footplate that extends over the toes
- Wraparound zippered closure
- Available in extra wide widths
- Leather upper
Gabi and Alvin 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 flat feet.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers and little kids
- Order the model Gabi or Alvin on Amazon
- Also available in a Mary Jane style and a version for older kids called Memo Polo
- Ideal for an SMO with a footplate that extends over the toes
- Accommodates medium and wide feet
- Ideal for moderate to strong cases of pronation
- High-top design with stiff heel counters
- Sizing tip: Order a half size larger than your child’s current foot size. Refer to Memo sizing chart
What Shoe Size Should You Order?
If your child’s SMO has a footplate that extends beyond the toes, order a half size larger than the end of that footplate. This translates to roughly ⅜ of an inch (about 1 centimeter) of space between the end of the SMO footplate and the end of the shoe.
If your child’s SMO doesn’t have a full footplate, order a full size larger than your child’s current foot length. This translates to roughly ¾ of an inch (about 1.9 centimeters) of space between your child’s longest toe and the end of the shoe.
How to Order the Correct Size for Your Child’s SMOs
I’ve built a simple system to help families figure out exactly what size to order — it takes about a minute and gives you real confidence in what you’re ordering, so you’re not just guessing.
Are There Other Shoe Options Available?
The list above shows the shoes I trust most for SMOs, but there are other options out there that can accommodate an SMO too — they may not be as deep or supportive as my top picks, but they’ll still fit. Reach out and I’m happy to walk you through some alternatives. Include whether your child’s SMO has a footplate that extends beyond the toes or not, since that changes what I’d recommend.
How to Lace Your Child’s Shoes to Secure the SMO
If you go with a laced pair, I recommend a specific lacing technique built to secure and support the heel and help prevent it from slipping.
Are There Any Special Considerations for Winter Footwear?
For colder months, look for deep boots that offer both warmth and support. Make sure they have enough room to accommodate the SMOs, and check that they provide good traction to prevent slips on icy surfaces. Boots with multiple Velcro straps are also a lot easier to get on and off.
What About Summer Shoes for SMOs?
When choosing summer shoes for kids with SMOs, look for lightweight materials and plenty of ventilation. Sandals with open designs that still offer real support — like a reinforced outsole — are a good option.
Sandals with adjustable straps are a great choice too, since they let you customize the fit. These often come with cushioned footbeds that provide comfort without sacrificing support.
Additional Resources for Children Who Wear SMOs
So far, I’ve only built one additional resource specifically for SMOs, but I’m working on more: my guide to the best sandals for children who wear SMOs.
Frequently Asked Questions
SMOs are shorter and generally take up less room than a full AFO, which is why footwear options tend to be less limited — especially if your child’s SMO has a cut-back footplate rather than one that extends over the toes.
If you’re unsure whether your child’s SMO counts as “extends beyond the toes” or “cut back,” send me a photo along with your child’s measurements and I can help determine the right approach.
Yes, in terms of support and stability — laces generally do a better job of securing the foot and keeping the SMO in place. That said, the Velcro options I recommend above are also a great choice, especially if laces aren’t practical for your child day to day.
Hello I wanted to know is this the website to send pics of my daughters feet to get a recommendation still? Also, I wanted to ask your thoughts on Little Steps Gait Plates.
Hi Ann Marie,
Yes, absolutely! You can still send me photos of your daughter’s feet, and I’ll be happy to evaluate her foot shape, posture, and exact shoe size you need to order to allow for the correct amount of growing room. Just make sure that you follow the instructions here: How to Measure Your Kids’ Foot – 2 Simple Steps to Determine Foot Length and Foot Width
As for the littleSTEPS Gait Plates, I have had positive experiences with them. They can be very helpful for some children. However, they don’t work for every child, so it’s important to first determine whether they are appropriate for your daughter’s specific foot shape, walking pattern, and overall needs.
Okay. Thank you very much for such a quick response. I will follow those instructions. Hopefully once you analyze you can give a recommendation on the best shoe possibly & also regarding the gait plates. Thank you so very much for your time!
You’re welcome! Happy to help. Once I take a look, I’ll be sure to include a specific shoe recommendation along with guidance on the gait plates.
Do you have any recommendations for rain boots for DAFO4s?
Hello Anna Maria,
Some families have had good luck with this over boot: https://amzn.to/4gj4xbv
I also suggest looking into this resource that has a list of winter boots that work well for AFOs: https://fittingchildrenshoes.com/the-best-kids-boots-for-afos-and-smos-extra-deep-and-wider-openings/
Hi, a couple things- each photo does not identify the brand anywhere. Also, we recently tried Tsukihoshi, and it was a massive failure. When placed side by side with a regular width striderite shoe one half size smaller, the striderite was almost a half an inch wider! We had to send the Tsukihoshi straight back. I don’t have the option of shopping in person, so the brands of each shoe on it’s photo and information box would be so helpful.
Hello Ashley,
Thank you for your feedback.
The images don’t identify the brands as when I recommend a specific shoe that doesn’t mean that all shoes from that specific shoe brand are suitable for SMOs. For example, you mentioned in your comment that you tried Tsukihoshi shoes and didn’t work well with the SMOs, but it’s important to note that there are specific styles among the Tsukihoshi shoe brand that work a lot better than others. The same applies to Stride Rite, New Balance, Saucony, etc.