Socks for Children Who Wear Orthotics – Increase Comfort and Prevent Blisters!
Children who wear orthotics or braces (AFOs or SMOs) on their feet should wear socks with extra cushioning in the sole area, as this can provide additional comfort and protection. The correct types of socks can act as a barrier between your child’s feet and the orthotics, protecting your child’s skin and preventing the formation of blisters or sores. I am an expert when it comes to fitting children’s shoes and orthotics, and based on my 10 years of shoe and orthotic fitting experience, I have put together a list of the best socks for children who wear orthotics.
Does Sock Height Matters?
Yes, it does. There are many different types of orthotics such as 3/4 length, full length, or braces such as AFOs and SMOs.
Depending on the type of orthotic that your child wears you might have to buy higher socks that extend past the top of the orthotic for the best protection.
3 Awesome Features of the Socks I Recommend
1️⃣ The socks that I recommend have a seamless construction that helps prevent irritation and friction against the skin. Seamless socks are also ideal for children with sensory issues.
2️⃣ Orthotics can lead to increased sweating inside shoes, so it’s important to get breathable socks that can help prevent excessive sweating and maintain a comfortable environment for the feet.
3️⃣ Extra cushion and padding help provide additional comfort and protection.
Best Socks for Children Who Wear Orthotics
All of the socks I recommend below are the ones I have fitted at the shoe store where I work, so I can guarantee that they are ideal for orthotics and durable. 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.
- Socks made by Jefferies
- Sensory friendly smooth toe seam provides less irritation and bulk for sensitive toes and feet
- Half cushion foot for added support and impact protection
- Ribbed leg support stays up on the leg and provides added support
- Cotton rich blend provides optimal softness and durability
- Socks made by SmartKnit
- Completely free of seams, these socks are knit like a caterpillar spins its cocoon from the toe up, eliminating all lumps and bumps and providing a comfortable fuss-free fit
- “No heel” design allows young children to put on their socks with confidence and keeps them from outgrowing their socks so quickly
- The stretchy yarns result in a form-fitting design that eliminates wrinkling and bunching at the toes
- Socks made by SmartKnit
- Completely free of seams, these socks are knit like a caterpillar spins its cocoon from the toe up, eliminating all lumps and bumps and providing a comfortable fuss-free fit
- “No heel” design allows young children to put on their socks with confidence and keeps them from outgrowing their socks so quickly
- The stretchy yarns result in a form-fitting design that eliminates wrinkling and bunching at the toes
- Socks made by Jefferies
- Sensory friendly smooth toe seam provides less irritation and bulk for sensitive toes and feet
- Soft and durable cotton rich blend provides optimal comfort and long lasting wear
How to Get the Correct Sock Size
Proper sizing is crucial to prevent bunching or excess fabric that may cause discomfort and lead to your child refusing to wear the orthotics. Consider socks with sizing options for a more precise fit. For example, I have noticed that the most effective way to figure out your child’s exact sock size is by buying them based on your child’s shoe size.
Most sock packages come with labels that read “sock size” or “age guidelines”. To figure out your child’s correct sock size you must always refer to the label that reads “fits shoe size” in the sock tags. This is the most effective way to find your child’s correct sock size. Take a look at the image below for clarification:
What Are the Best Shoes for Children Who Wear Orthotics?
I have created many resources over the years about children’s shoes and orthotics. In my experience, shoes that are effective in accommodating orthotics should provide a stable base of support, extra depth, and rounded toe-boxes. I wrote a different article that describes the best shoes for orthotics, and if your child happens to wear braces such as AFOs, you should visit this resource.
You can ask your questions or recommendations in the comments section below or if you prefer you can also contact me via email.
