Soccer Cleats for Kids Who Wear Orthotics – Removable Insoles, Extra Deep, and Rounder Toe-Boxes!

March 20, 2025 Insoles for Sport Shoes Juan Valenzuela 0 - Comments

Is your child experiencing foot pain while playing soccer, and has your doctor recommended wearing orthotics for extra support? Finding the right pair of soccer cleats can be challenging when you need to fit orthotics inside, especially since cleats are designed to be snug for optimal performance. This snug fit, while great for agility, can make it tough for parents to choose cleats that work well with orthotics. With my extensive experience as a shoe fitting expert, I can help you select the best cleats that provide the right support for your child’s feet.

Do Kids Who Play Soccer Need Sports Insoles in Their Cleats?

Children with foot conditions like flat feet are more susceptible to foot and heel pain, especially during activities like soccer. The sport’s intense running, quick direction changes, and sudden movements increase the risk of both overuse and acute injuries. Every time your child steps on the field, their feet and legs endure significant stress. However, wearing orthotics can help absorb some of that impact, providing extra support and minimizing the strain on their feet to keep them comfortable and injury-free.

Children playing soccer in a pair of comfortable soccer cleats but with untied laces.
An image of children playing soccer.

My Experience Fitting Soccer Cleats for Children with Foot Pain

At the children’s shoe store where I work, we’re passionate about helping kids with foot conditions like flat feet or weak ankles. We understand how important it is to find shoes that offer the right blend of support and comfort, so every child can move freely and confidently. Whether your child needs specialized support or just a little extra help to stay active, I am here to ensure they step into the perfect fit for their unique needs.

I work closely with children referred by their physical and occupational therapists, guiding them through the process of finding the perfect shoes and orthotics to meet their unique needs and support their active lifestyles.

Why Are the Cleats I Recommend Ideal for Orthotics?

These features not only accommodate orthotics but also enhance comfort and performance on the field. 

Key Feature One: Extra Depth. This feature provides additional space to fit the orthotic comfortably without cramping the foot. Cleats with extra depth ensure a snug fit while accommodating the orthotic, providing both comfort and performance. The extra depth also allows for better air circulation, reducing the risk of overheating and sweating during intense play.

wide-soccer-cleats-for-kids-with-high-insteps
A side-by-side comparison highlighting the extra depth of one of the soccer cleats I recommend versus a different style, showing how it accommodates orthotics for better support and comfort.

Key Feature Two: Firm Heel Counters. Firm heel counters are essential for stability and support. They help maintain the foot’s alignment and prevent the orthotic from sliding around inside the shoe. Look for cleats with firm heel counters to ensure your child’s feet are well-supported during play. A stable heel counter can also enhance a child’s balance, reducing the risk of falls and injuries.

Soccer shoe with a firm heel counter for kids with heel pain.
Juan Valenzuela pressing on the heel counter of a soccer cleat.

Key Feature Three: Removable Insoles. Removable insoles are a game-changer for fitting orthotics. They allow for easy customization, making it possible to swap out the standard insole for an orthotic. This feature ensures the orthotic fits securely and comfortably within the cleat. 

An image of a soccer cleat with a removable insole.

Where to Find Soccer Cleats with Extra Depth and Round Toe Boxes?

Finding soccer cleats with the right features—like extra depth and firm heel counters—can be tricky, as most cleats aren’t labeled with these details. The great news is, I’ve worked hands-on with many cleats and know exactly which ones offer these benefits. Note: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase through them.

Many of the soccer cleats I recommend come in wide (W) and extra wide (X-Wide) widths, so be sure to select the right fit. Remember, orthotics can take up extra space inside the shoes, so it’s always better to opt for a wider and deeper fit rather than just going up a size.

Best Soccer Cleats for Kids Who Need Orthotic Support

Here are my top recommendations for supportive soccer cleats in 2025.

1. 442 V2 Academy by New Balance

This is one of the best soccer cleats for orthotics as it is extra deep, supportive, and offered at a reasonable price.

Supportive New Balance soccer cleat for kids.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style 442 V2 Academy by New Balance on the New Balance website or Amazon
  • Fits children with medium or wide feet
  • Comfortable lining to improve the first foot feel
  • I suggest that you get this soccer shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

2. Goletto VIII by Adidas

The Goletto VIII by Adidas is another excellent option for kids who wear orthotics. Known for its lightweight design, this cleat allows for quick movements on the field. These Adidas soccer cleats are ideal for children who prefer shoes from “popular” shoe brands.

Supportive Adidas in black and pink soccer cleat for kids.
Supportive Adidas soccer cleat in navy blue for boys.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style Adidas shoe style Goletto VIII on Zappos or Amazon
  • Fits children with medium or wide feet
  • Cushioned heels
  • I suggest that you get this soccer shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

3. Zephz

This soccer cleat comes in extra wide widths, making it perfect for fitting orthotics. With its removable insoles and added depth, the orthotics fit comfortably and securely inside, providing the support your child needs for optimal performance.

Zephz red soccer shoe for kids with wide or extra wide feet.
Zephz soccer shoe for kids with wide or extra wide feet.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style by Zephz on Amazon
  • Fits children with medium, wide, or extra wide feet
  • Extra padding around the ankles
  • I suggest that you get this soccer shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

4. Furon Dispatch by New Balance

The Furon Dispatch by New Balance offers a wide fit option, catering to children who need extra room in their cleats. These cleats are designed with a focus on speed and agility, featuring a lightweight synthetic upper and a comfortable, accommodating fit

Supportive New Balance kids soccer cleat for kids with wide feet.
  • Order the shoe style Furon Dispatch by New Balance on the New Balance website or Amazon
  • Fits medium and wide feet
  • Comfortable lining to improve the first foot feel
  • I suggest that you get this soccer shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

5. Predator by Adidas

The Adidas Predator features a wide fit and a soft leather upper that gently molds to the foot for a custom-like feel. Perfect for kids who wear orthotics, this soccer cleat combines comfort and support to enhance their performance on the field.

Supportive Adidas Predator style for kids.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style Predator by Adidas on Amazon or Zappos
  • Fits children with medium and wide feet
  • Comfortable lining to improve the first foot feel
  • I suggest that you get this soccer shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

Apply This Amazing Shoe Lacing Technique

Proper lacing can make a significant difference in how the cleats fit and perform. One popular lacing method is the “lock lacing” technique, which helps keep the orthotic in place, prevents the heel from slipping, and secures the foot firmly in the shoe. Using my specific shoe lacing technique can provide extra support and stability.

What Type of Orthotic Does Your Child Wear?

If your child wears a full-length orthotic I suggest that you remove the original insoles of the soccer cleats before placing your child’s orthotics. However, if your child happens to wear a 3/4 length orthotic you can leave the original insoles of the shoes.

Here’s an example of what a full-length orthotic looks like, designed to provide complete support from heel to toe
Here’s an example of a 3/4 length orthotic, offering targeted support while allowing more space in the toe area.

Do You Have the Correct Sport Insoles?

Choosing the right sport insoles can make a big difference in both comfort and performance. Sports-specific insoles offer extra support and cushioning, helping to protect your child’s feet while boosting their overall foot health and athletic abilities on the field.

How to Order the Correct Shoe Size Online

Many specialized children’s shoe stores have closed down (even before the pandemic), leaving families unsure of where to go for a professional fitting. Finding the right shoe size online can be challenging, but my virtual shoe fitting service is here to help. By utilizing this service, you can ensure that your child receives the correct shoe size and fit, even when ordering online.

Bonus Resource: Soccer Socks

In addition to choosing the right cleats, consider investing in soccer socks with extra cushion and padding. These socks can help prevent friction, reduce blisters, and provide additional comfort for children wearing orthotics. Furthermore, well-fitted socks can improve the fit of the cleats, ensuring the shoes stay secure and comfortable throughout the game.

Soccer cleats play a vital role in a child’s ability to play the game. They need to provide traction, stability, and support while allowing for swift movements and comfort. The correct cleats can improve a child’s confidence on the field, enhancing their ability to perform maneuvers and react quickly during play.