The Best Kids’ Shoes for Orthotics – Supportive and Comfortable Shoes
One of the most common reasons why children need to wear orthotics is from having flat feet, but other common reasons are low muscle tone, weak ankles, knock knees, or poor posture. For children, orthotics can be life-changing, as they can help support, align, or improve the function of the foot. However, for orthotics to be effective, they must be paired with suitable footwear. I will show you a list of supportive and comfortable kids’ shoes that also provide extra depth to fit full-length or 3/4-length orthotics (there is also a section for kids who wear AFOs).
As a passionate shoe fitter, I’m here to assist you in making the best choice for your child’s unique needs. Providing the right support during the formative years can lead to a lifetime of healthy foot habits and prevent future complications.
My Experience Fitting Children in Supportive Shoes and Orthotics
I work in a specialized children’s shoe store where we carry some of the most supportive children’s shoes and orthotics. Several pediatricians, physical, and occupational therapists refer families to the shoe store to be fitted for supportive shoes and orthotics. The right shoes can enhance the effectiveness of orthotics, ensuring that they provide the intended benefits.
Many families make the common mistake of assuming that children who wear orthotics can wear any shoe. This is untrue, as the shoes and the orthotics work together to help treat your child’s foot condition. If the shoes are not supportive or capable of accommodating the orthotics correctly, the child won’t get any of the benefits that the orthotics have to offer.
The Role of Supportive Shoes in Orthotic Efficacy
Orthotics and shoes should work together to provide the best support and alignment for your child’s feet. The shoe acts as a foundation, while the orthotic provides targeted support and correction. Together, they can improve posture, prevent foot pain, and enhance mobility.
This child struggled with flat feet, which affected his balance and coordination. His parents opted for New Balance shoes, which offered the perfect blend of support and flexibility. The supportive shoes and orthotics helped improve his balance and mobility, and now he can participate in his favorite activities without discomfort.
Key Features to Look for in Kids’ Shoes for Orthotics
1. Adequate Depth and Width: This feature allows the orthotic to fit deeply inside the shoes and prevents your kids’ feet from being raised by the orthotics. The depth of the shoes plays a key role, as it’s important for the orthotics to fit deeply inside your kids’ shoes to not give your child the impression that their feet are coming out of the shoes.
Let me show you what a tremendous difference a shoe that provides extra depth can make. Do you notice how much deeper the orthotic is fitting inside the shoe on the right?
Below you can find another example with a different orthotic type of orthotic:
2. Stable Base of Support: The shoes must provide a substantial outsole to act as a foundation and to hold the orthotic in place. Let me show you the difference in support between one of the shoes I recommend and a different shoe:
3. Firm Heel Counters: A firm heel counter provides stability and helps maintain the alignment of the foot. This is particularly important for children using orthotics, as it enhances the orthotic’s corrective function. Let’s take a look at the difference between a shoe that provides a firm heel counter and one that doesn’t:
Two Additional Features
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.
Straight Lasts: This feature helps prevent the forefoot from pushing out. You need to stay away from shoes that have an excessively curved last as they lack heel stability. Take a look at the image below for better visualization purposes:
Remember, the right pair of orthotic shoes for kids can significantly impact your child’s mobility and overall quality of life. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the best kids’ shoes for orthotics. 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 Kids’ Shoes for Orthotics That Are Supportive and Deep
Take a look at the description of the shoes I recommend to find out whether that specific style can fit full or 3/4-length orthotics, as well as AFOs or SMOs.
1. Shoe Style 990v6 by New Balance is the Best Kids’ Shoe for Orthotics
This is the deepest and most supportive shoe for children who wear orthotics, and can accommodate full or 3/4 length orthotics, as well as AFOs and SMOs. Parents consistently praise the 990v6 for its durability, comfort, and support, noting improvements in their children’s posture and gait. The downside that many parents complain about is the high price tag.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids.
- You can order the 990v6 with laces on the New Balance website, Amazon, or Zappos.
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths.
- Also available in pink and navy blue.
- There is also a Velcro version of these shoes available in navy blue and pink.
- ENCAP midsole technology provides excellent support and durability.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size.
2. Shoe Style Gabi by Memo (Orthopedic Shoe)
These orthopedic shoes are specifically designed to improve foot posture and comfort, and can accommodate full or 3/4 length orthotics, as well as AFOs and SMOs. Podiatrists and orthopedists often recommend the Gabi shoe for its superior support and compatibility with orthotics. 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.
- You can order the shoe style Gabi by Memo on Amazon.
- Fits medium and wide feet.
- Also available in a Mary Jane style and a version for older kids called Memo Polo.
- Reinforced heel counter helps maintain correct foot positioning, essential for effective orthotic function.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size.
3. Shoe Style Elliott by Stride Rite
These high-top booties by Stride Rite offer excellent support and a comfortable fit, making them a top choice for kids who wear orthotics. I only recommend fitting 3/4 length orthotics inside these high-top booties. Moreover, this shoe is affordable and despite the limited color choices, the Elliott shoes are celebrated for their supportive qualities and comfortable fit.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers.
- You can order the shoe style SRT Elliot by Stride Rite on Amazon or Zappos.
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.
4. Shoe style 574 by New Balance
This New Balance shoe combines style with functionality and it offers solid support and cushioning, making it suitable for kids who wear orthotics. This shoe can fit full or 3/4 length orthotics, as well as SMOs. The shoe is offered at a lower price point.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids.
- Order the shoe style 574 New-b V1 by New Balance on Amazon or the New Balance website.
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths.
- Also available with laces on the New Balance website, Amazon, and Zappos.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.
5. Shoe Style Tracks by Timberland
The sturdy design ensures that children can enjoy outdoor activities without compromising on foot stability or comfort, but this style is slightly heavier than my other shoe recommendations. I only recommend fitting full or 3/4 length orthotics inside this shoe.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers and little kids.
- Order the shoe style Tracks by Timberland on Zappos or Amazon.
- Fits medium and wide feet.
- Water-friendly
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.
6. Shoe Style Cohesion by Saucony
These shoes are ideal for kids with foot problems who must wear orthotics, as they offer excellent cushioning and stability. However, I only recommend fitting 3/4 length orthotics inside this shoe. The affordable pricing also makes them accessible to a wide range of families.
Key Features
- Available for little and big kids.
- Order the shoe style Cohesion KDZ on Zappos or Amazon.
- Available in medium and wide widths.
- Also available with laces on Zappos and Amazon.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.
7. Shoe Style Fresh Foam Arishi v4 by New Balance
This is a versatile shoe that provides a soft and comfortable fit while supporting your child’s orthotics. Moreover, I only recommend fitting full or 3/4 length orthotics inside this shoe. Families appreciate how this shoe is offered at a very reasonable price.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids.
- Order the shoe style Fresh Foam 650 by New Balance on the New Balance website or Amazon.
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths.
- Also available with laces on Zappos and Amazon.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.
8. Shoe Style 2002 by New Balance
The 2002 model by New Balance is another great option for kids who wear orthotics at a more affordable price point than the 990v6. However, this shoe won’t accommodate AFOs or SMOs, only full or 3/4 length orthotics.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids.
- Order the shoe style 2002 by New Balance on the New Balance website.
- Available in medium and wide widths.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.
9. Shoe Style Cross Em Up by Adidas
The Cross Em Up by Adidas is a basketball-inspired shoe that offers great support for kids who wear orthotics. The versatility of the shoe makes it suitable for both sports and everyday wear, adding value for parents looking for multi-functional footwear. Additionally, I only recommend fitting full or 3/4 length orthotics inside this shoe.
Key Features
- Available for little and big kids.
- Order the shoe style Cross Em Up Select by Adidas on Zappos or Amazon.
- Available in medium and wide widths.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.
10. Fresh Foam 650 by New Balance
The shoe features a wide toe box and plush cushioning, making it perfect for everyday wear. Parents often highlight the shoe’s ability to maintain its shape and support even after prolonged use, underscoring its durability. Furthermore, I only recommend fitting full or 3/4 length orthotics as well as SMOs.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids.
- Order the shoe style 650 by New Balance on the New Balance website or Zappos.
- Available in medium and wide widths.
- Also available with laces on Zappos and Amazon.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.
Get a Personalized Shoe Recommendation
A personalized approach to choosing kids orthotic shoes can lead to better outcomes in terms of comfort and functionality. Moreover, children are more likely to wear shoes they find visually appealing. Allowing them to choose styles they like can foster a positive attitude towards wearing orthotics, making it less of a chore and more of a personal choice. I am happy to provide you with specific shoe recommendations based on the type of orthotic that your child has:
fittingchildrensshoes@gmail.com
What Shoe Size Should You Order for Your Kids’ Orthotics?
This directly depends on what type of orthotic your child wears, as some orthotics take up a lot more extra space than others. For example, a full-length orthotic will take a lot more space than a 3/4-length orthotic. If you are unsure about what shoe size you should order to accommodate your child’s orthotics I suggest that you use this virtual orthotic fitting service.
A well-fitted shoe ensures the orthotic remains in place, providing consistent support and alignment.
Has Your Child Been Diagnosed with AFOs or SMOs?
I showed you a list of the best kids’ shoes for orthotics and some of them do work well for AFOs and SMOs. However, these types of foot braces can take up a lot of extra space inside the shoes, so for those types of orthotics I suggest looking into a different resource that has supportive and deep shoe recommendations for AFOs.
Worst and Best Kids’ Shoes for Orthotics
If your child wears orthotics stay away from shoes that provide alternative closures such as bungee laces or slip-on shoes. Velcro shoes are okay but I highly recommend getting shoes with double velcro straps instead of one.
Are Shoes with Laces Better than Shoes with Alternative Closures?
I always recommend a pair of shoes that come with shoelaces instead of velcro closure for children who wear orthotics, as shoelaces help keep the orthotic in place. Shoelaces also provide better support and stability, and they will push your kids’ heels back supporting and securing them against the back of the shoes. There is a specific shoe lacing technique that I like to use for children who wear orthotics.
Not Sure What Orthotic to Order for Your Child? – Let’s Find Out!
I have fitted several different types of orthotics through the years, but there are two particular ones that I have found to be the most effective ones when it comes to treating and preventing flat feet, weak ankles, and overpronation. These orthotics also make a tremendous difference in improving a child’s overall posture, and they are very easy to fit inside shoes.
The reason I recommend these two particular orthotics is that they provide excellent arch and heel support, and at the same time, they are not as invasive as other orthotics. This means that the orthotics allow the child’s foot and leg muscles to develop on their own while supporting them.
Kids’ Shoes for Orthotics and the Importance of Being Proactive
The first seven years of a child’s life are often referred to as the “golden years of treatment opportunity.” During this time, the foot and lower extremity’s structural changes are relatively easy to influence with supportive shoes and orthotics. Moreover, addressing foot issues early with orthotics not only aids in correcting the existing problems but also enhances the child’s ability to participate in physical activities without pain.
Have you tried a particular shoe style that has worked well in accommodating your child’s orthotics? Please share your findings below so other parents can benefit from your experiences.
Hello. We are in the UK. My 11 year old boy is autistic and jumps/stimms a lot. He has out toeing of his feet, left more than the right. NHS Orthotics have suggested insoles but he tends to remove them as find them uncomfortable, probably his shoes are not deep enough. Please suggest appropriate footwear as he’s is reluctant to walk long distances.I can email you a picture of his feet/stance.
Hello Naz,
I wanted to confirm that I received your email and I will be in touch shortly.
Hi there,
Found this page while looking for supportive shoes for my 1 year old. She isn’t walking yet but when standing her weight is completely on the inside of her foot. So much so that her little pinky toe is off the floor. This happens mostly on her left foot. I’m wondering what shoe you’d recommend for her as a prewalker. Would also love any advice you may have to hopefully help and correct her situation.
Hello Amber,
To recommend specific shoes for your daughter I first will need to know her foot shape (narrow, medium, wide, extra wide), and the country that you are contacting me from to check what specific shoes you might be able to order.
Hi there, this post was very useful. I have an eleven year old son, with custom soft orthodics to support his ligament elasticity, he has Trisomy 21. I did find that Merrell makes the exact shoes that I needed. They have ankle boots, with substantial outsoles and removable insoles in wide width. The Orthodist recommended a shoe with canvas on the toe upper. The Merrell shoes provided everything we needed. They are also good looking shoes.
I hope this helps.
Hello Deb,
Thank you for your feedback and valuable recommendations!
Hello Juan,
We are based in Europe. Our daughter aged 2.5 has muscular dystrophy and is hyperpronated. She is still on her feet and wearing heel orthotics (although she eventually will have to move to AFOs).
Do you have any recommendations for shoes that will work with these and for her – she needs a lot of support due to weaking muscles around her feet and ankles. Her foot length is 16.5cm/US9/26cm.
Thanks you.
Hello Clare,
I am happy to recommend specific shoes for your daughter but can you please specify from which country you are contacting me? This will help me determine what specific shoes are available in your area.
Sure, thank you Juan. We are in Ireland!
Hello Clare,
I don’t have access to see what specific shoe styles are available in Ireland. However, I suggest that you take a look at this resource to check if those specific shoe styles are available in your area:
Best Shoes for Kids Who Wear Only One AFO – Save Time and Money
ok thanks Juan!
Hi Juan, thanks for replying. We are based in Ireland.
Sorry, me again. Any other suggestions for shoes to wear with orthotics. I am trying to look for your recommendations but I can not find my son’s size 9.5W in red. Any other brands?
Hello Maria,
The biggest selection of kids’ shoes with shoelaces starts at 10.5 and above. Here is another shoe style that I recommend:
Saucony Kids’ Shoes for Orthotics: Option 1
Saucony Kids’ Shoes for Orthotics: Option 2
I hope this helps!
Thank you! Where we can find you? It would be great if you can personally measure my child’s feet
Hello Maria,
Email me at: fittingchildrensshoes@gmail.com
Thank you so much. The New Balance velcro model was recommended by the Shoe Train store. I will follow your recommendation this time even though this will be my son’s first pair of shoes with laces. Thanks again!!!
Hello Maria,
That is one of the best fitting children’s shoe stores in the country. I am actually located in Bethesda, Maryland. Please let me know how the shoes work out for your son, and I also will be happy to assess your child’s feet personally.
Hi, my son currently wears New Balance KV519v1I shoes with orthotics because of inward feet (he is 3 years old). Are you familiar with this model? Could you recommend me another one I can try ? This model is working fine but I would like to buy another pair. Is it ok with no shoe laces? Thank you so much for all the valuable info you provide
Hello Maria,
Yes, I am familiar with that shoe style and it doesn’t provide the same amount of support as other New Balance kids’ shoes.
In order for your son to get the full benefits that the orthotics have to offer I recommend providing him with a pair of shoelaces instead of Velcro closure. Shoelaces will provide better support and stability, and will also keep the orthotic in place.
Since your son is already wearing a pair of shoes with Velcro closure, I recommend that you provide him with a pair of shoes with shoelaces so you can see the difference for yourself.
Here are the styles that I recommend:
Saucony shoe for orthotics: Option 1
New Balance shoe for orthotics: Option 2
I hope this helps.
Hello! My son is 12 with slight pronation. We had him in shoes with laces but he cannot tie them properly (he is special needs) and the teachers at school have refused to help him or tie them for him. He started falling a lot due to this and tripping on his laces so we switched him back to velcro. He is currently using some New Balance with Velcro. He starts middle school next week and we thought insoles for the pronation would be a good idea for him and were planning on getting another pair of the Velcro New Balance for P.E. We fear him getting hurt with laces that are not properly tied. I see you recommend against Velcro shoes, do you have any suggestions for our situation? If he won’t benefit from the insoles in Velcro shoes will he be better off without them? This is strictly for PE where I cannot make sure he has tied his laces properly.
Hello Deanna,
In this case I agree with you that your son will benefit from wearing a pair Velcro shoes over one with shoelaces. I recommend that he still wears the orthotics in his Velcro shoes. I want to make sure that the pair of Velcro shoes that he wears are supportive, otherwise he won’t benefit from wearing an orthotic. The shoes need to provide a substantial sole, a firm heel counter, and be lightweight and flexible at the same time. There are two particular styles that I recommend:
Supportive Velcro Shoe for Orthotics: Option 1
Supportive Velcro Shoe for Orthotics: Option 2
I hope this helps!
Thank you so much for your help! He is currently using the second option and it’s what I was thinking of getting him.
You are welcome. Please keep me updated on how your son is doing.
Looking for hi top sandas not gladiators there to hi up and he tear them up
He wear hi top always so he will leave them on any other take them off no valco buckle or lace only i dont know if there is a shoes like that!?
Hello Shirley,
I want to make sure I am understanding correctly. You are looking for a high top sandal for your boy with no Velcro or shoelaces. Am I understanding correctly? What is your son’s shoe size?
My son’s shoe size is 4, he has extra digits on both feet and having a hard time finding shoes which will SMO’s.
Hello Shkhan,
Have you tried any of the shoe styles that I recommend?
Extra Wide Shoe for SMO’s – Option 1
Extra Wide Shoe for SMO’s – Option 2
I hope this helps!
My 15-month-old son has a leg length discrepancy and we use an insole for him. Could you please suggest a deep comfortable shoe with laces for him?
Hello Husain,
Here are my recommendations:
Deep Shoe with Shoelaces: Option 1
Deep Shoe with Shoelaces: Option 2
Please note that both of these shoe styles are available in different widths (medium, wide, and extra wide), so choose your child’s shoe width accordingly.
I hope this helps.
I forgot to mention to please don’t forget to remove the original sole of the shoes before placing the orthotic.