Should You Bring Shoes to Your Child’s AFO/SMO Appointment?
Last Updated: August 2026 | Juan Valenzuela, Certified Children’s Shoe Fitter
When preparing for your child’s AFO/SMO appointment, you might wonder if bringing shoes is necessary. This decision can affect the fitting process and, ultimately, the success of the orthotic treatment. The right footwear can significantly enhance the benefit of your child’s AFOs or SMOs, helping them get the greatest possible improvement in mobility and comfort.
With ten years of experience at a specialized children’s shoe store, and close collaboration with physical and occupational therapists, I’ve gained real expertise on the best shoes to pair with AFOs and SMOs. Here’s what I’ve learned, to help you find the right fit for your child.
1. Can Your Child’s Current Shoes Fit the New AFOs/SMOs?
Bringing your child’s current shoes to the appointment can genuinely help. It lets the orthotist assess whether the existing footwear is compatible with the new orthotic device, and the wear pattern on those shoes can offer real insight into your child’s gait and any underlying issues.
That said, be prepared for the likelihood that your child’s current shoes won’t fit. AFO devices often need additional space and specific features that standard shoes simply don’t provide.
2. Should You Wait to Buy Shoes Until You Have the AFOs/SMOs?
Finding shoes that fit an AFO or SMO is much easier once you actually have the brace in hand. If your medical professional recommends bringing shoes to try on with the new device, ask for the AFO measurements first — with those in hand, you can determine the correct shoe size for your child. I’ll walk through exactly how to use those measurements below.
3. How Do You Determine the Right Shoe Size for AFOs/SMOs?
If your medical professional asks you to bring shoes to the appointment, request the AFO measurements first — that’s what lets you shop for shoes that will actually fit well and stay comfortable. Use the resource below to find out exactly what shoe size to order:
Next Step: Finding Shoes for Your Child’s AFOs/SMOs
I’ve come across a lot of misinformation about which shoes actually work best with AFOs, and one of the most common mistakes I see is parents asking other families for recommendations. The problem: every child’s feet are unique, and AFOs and SMOs vary in size and shape — some take up far more space than others. To help, I’ve put together a resource with a list of supportive and deep shoes specifically designed to work well with AFOs.
Be careful about trying the exact shoe a friend or relative recommends. I’ve noticed some families recommend a specific shoe without mentioning it was fitted way too long just to accommodate the AFO. I’ve seen posts saying something like “these shoes worked great for my child’s AFOs, we only had to go two full sizes up from my child’s actual foot size.” If your child needs shoes two full sizes bigger just to make it work, that’s not actually the right shoe for their AFOs — it’s a sign the shoe itself isn’t built with the right depth and structure.
How Often Should Your Child Wear the AFOs/SMOs?
Consult with your child’s medical professional about how long they should wear the AFOs each day. Gradually increasing wear time can help prevent discomfort and give you a chance to catch fit issues early.
If this is your child’s first time wearing an AFO or SMO, and especially if they’re too young or unable to express discomfort, keep a close eye on their feet and legs for any signs of irritation. Watch for redness, rubbing, or swelling — all signs of a pressure point that needs attention.
Choosing the right shoes for your child’s AFOs is essential for both comfort and function. Without the right shoes, even a well-fitted AFO won’t deliver the support it’s meant to, which limits how effective the treatment can actually be.
Contact Me for Personalized Recommendations
If you have questions about preparing for your child’s AFO or SMO appointment, or need help finding the right shoes once you have the measurements, reach out — I’m happy to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
It doesn’t hurt to bring your child’s current shoes, even if it’s not specifically requested — it gives the orthotist useful context on wear patterns and gait, and it costs you nothing to have them on hand.
As soon as you have the AFO measurements in hand. Trying to guess a size before you have those measurements often leads to returns and wasted time, so it’s worth waiting for that specific number.
Yes — the same principles apply regardless of appointment format. Ask for the AFO measurements as soon as they’re available, and use them the same way to shop for shoes with confidence.
