The Best Kids’ Shoes for Orthotics – Supportive and Comfortable Shoes
Last updated: March 2026
Many children wear orthotics to help treat conditions such as flat feet, low muscle tone, weak ankles, knock knees, or poor posture. Orthotics can help support and align the feet, but they only work effectively when paired with the right shoes. I will show you a list of supportive and comfortable kids shoes for orthotics, including extra deep kids shoes that provide enough space 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.
What Are the Best Kids’ Shoes for Orthotics?
The best kids shoes for orthotics provide extra depth, removable insoles, and a stable base of support so the orthotic can sit deeply inside the shoe. These features ensure you are choosing shoes that fit orthotics properly and allow the device to function as intended.
Quick Comparison: Best Kids Shoes for Orthotics
The table below provides a quick comparison of some of the best kids shoes for orthotics, highlighting models that provide extra depth, removable insoles, and strong support.
| Brand | Model | Best For | Orthotics Type | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Balance | 990v6 | Maximum depth and support | 3/4, Full, SMOs, AFOs | Check Price |
| Stride Rite | M2P Journey 3.0 Adapt | Extra wide feet and adaptable fit | 3/4, Full, SMOs | Check Price |
| Memo | Gabi | Orthopedic support | 3/4, Full, SMOs, AFOs | Check Price |
| Billy | Classic DR High II | AFO braces | SMOs, AFOs | Check Price |
| Stride Rite | Elliott | Affordable ankle support | 3/4 orthotics | Check Price |
| New Balance | 574 | Affordable everyday support | 3/4, Full, SMOs | Check Price |
| New Balance | 2002 | Support at lower price than 990v6 | 3/4, Full | Check Price |
Below you will find additional shoe models with more detailed descriptions to help you choose the best option for your child’s orthotics.
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. Not all shoes have enough depth or structure to accommodate orthotics, which is why it’s important to choose shoes that fit orthotics properly.
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 (990v6), 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 some of the best shoes for kids with orthotics, including extra deep kids shoes designed to properly accommodate orthotic devices. Disclosure: Affiliate links may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Best Kids’ Shoes for Orthotics (Extra Deep and Supportive)
The shoes below are some of the best kids shoes for orthotics because they provide extra depth, removable insoles, and strong support to properly accommodate orthotic devices.
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
The New Balance 990v6 is one of the best kids shoes for orthotics because it provides exceptional depth, strong support, and multiple width options. This shoe easily accommodates full-length orthotics, 3/4 orthotics, SMOs, and even AFO braces, making it one of the most reliable options for children who require extra support.
Parents consistently praise this model for improving their child’s stability and posture. The main downside families mention is the higher price, but the durability and support often make it worth the investment.
Key Features
- Ideal for 3/4, full-length orthotics, SMOs, or AFOs
- 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
- Removable insoles allow orthotics to sit deeper inside the shoe
- This is one of the deepest kids shoes for orthotics currently available
Sizing Tip:
Order one full shoe size larger when fitting 3/4 or full-length orthotics.
Order two full sizes larger if your child wears AFOs or SMOs.
2. Shoe Style M2P Journey 3.0 Adapt by Stride Rite
The Stride Rite M2P Journey 3.0 Adapt is a supportive sneaker designed for children who wear orthotics and need extra depth and adjustability.
Key Features
- Ideal for 3/4, full-length orthotics, and SMO
- Order the shoe style M2P Journey Adapt by Stride Rite on Zappos or Amazon
- Available in extra wide widths
Sizing Tip:
Order one full shoe size larger when fitting 3/4 or full-length orthotics
Order two full sizes larger if your child wears SMOs.
3. Shoe Style Gabi by Memo (Orthopedic Shoe)
The Memo Gabi is a medically designed orthopedic shoe that works exceptionally well for children who wear orthotics. These shoes provide excellent structure and depth, allowing them to comfortably accommodate full-length orthotics, 3/4 orthotics, AFOs, and SMOs.
Many podiatrists and orthopedists recommend this model because the reinforced heel counter and supportive design help maintain proper foot alignment. While the price is higher than standard children’s shoes, the orthopedic design makes them a strong option for children with more complex foot conditions.
Key Features
- Ideal for 3/4, full-length orthotics, SMOs, or AFOs
- 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
Sizing Tip:
Order one full shoe size larger when fitting 3/4 or full-length orthotics.
Order two full sizes larger if your child wears AFOs or SMOs.
4. Billy Shoes
Billy Shoes have become a favorite among families with children who wear AFOs. Their unique zipper design allows for easy on-and-off, making them a convenient choice for both parents and children.
Key Features
- Ideal for AFOs, SMOs, and bulky orthotics that require extra room
- Order the shoe style Classic DR High II by Billy on Zappos or Amazon
- Available in extra wide widths
- Leather upper
- Side zipper for easy on and off
Sizing Tip:
Order one full shoe size larger when fitting 3/4 or full-length orthotics.
Order two full sizes larger if your child wears AFOs or SMOs.
5. Shoe Style Elliott by Stride Rite
The Stride Rite Elliott is a supportive high-top boot that works well for children who wear 3/4 length orthotics. The higher design helps improve ankle stability while still providing enough depth to accommodate orthotics comfortably.
This is also one of the more affordable shoes that fit orthotics, making it a good option for families looking for supportive footwear without the higher price of orthopedic shoes.
Key Features
- Ideal for 3/4 or full-length orthotics
- You can order the shoe style SRT Elliot by Stride Rite on Amazon or Zappos
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
- High-top design improves ankle stability
- Supportive structure helps keep orthotics in place
Sizing Tip:
Order two full sizes larger when fitting 3/4 or full-length orthotics.
6. Shoe style 574 by New Balance
The New Balance 574 is a reliable everyday sneaker for children who wear orthotics. This model provides solid structure, good depth, and removable insoles, making it one of the more affordable kids shoes for orthotics that still provide extra depth and strong support.
Parents appreciate the combination of durability, comfort, and wide width options, which make it easier to find a proper fit for different foot shapes.
Key Features
- Ideal for 3/4 or full-length orthotics
- 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
- Durable rubber outsole for stability and traction
- Lace and Velcro versions available
Sizing Tip:
Order one full shoe size larger when fitting 3/4 or full-length orthotics.
7. Shoe Style Tracks by Timberland
The Timberland Tracks is a sturdy and supportive boot that works well for children who wear orthotics and need extra durability. These boots provide a stable base and enough depth to fit full-length or 3/4 orthotics, making them a great option for outdoor activities and colder weather.
While they are slightly heavier than athletic sneakers, the added structure helps keep orthotics properly positioned inside the shoe.
Key Features
- Ideal for 3/4 or full-length orthotics
- Order the shoe style Tracks by Timberland on Zappos or Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet
- Water-friendly design for versatile wear
Sizing Tip:
Order two full sizes larger when fitting 3/4 or full-length orthotics.
8. Shoe Style Cohesion by Saucony
The Saucony Cohesion is a lightweight and comfortable running shoe that works well for children who wear 3/4 orthotics. It provides good cushioning and stability while remaining flexible enough for everyday activities.
This model is also one of the more budget-friendly shoes for kids with orthotics, making it a popular choice among families looking for supportive shoes at a lower price point.
Key Features
- Ideal for 3/4 or full-length orthotics
- Order the shoe style Cohesion KDZ on Zappos or Amazon
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Also available with laces on Zappos and Amazon
Sizing Tip:
Order two full sizes larger when fitting 3/4 or full-length orthotics.
9. Shoe Style Fresh Foam Arishi v4 by New Balance
The New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi v4 is a versatile sneaker that combines comfort, cushioning, and width options. This model works well for children who need supportive everyday shoes that fit orthotics, as it provides enough depth and removable insoles to accommodate full-length or 3/4 orthotics.
Families often appreciate this shoe because it offers good support at a more affordable price compared to premium models.
Key Features
- Ideal for 3/4 or full-length orthotics
- Order the shoe style Fresh Foam Arishi v4 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
Sizing Tip:
Order one full shoe size larger when fitting 3/4 or full-length orthotics.
10. Shoe Style 2002 by New Balance
The New Balance 2002 is another supportive sneaker that works well for children who wear orthotics. It provides solid cushioning and stability while still offering enough depth to accommodate full-length or 3/4 orthotics.
This shoe is slightly more affordable than the 990v6 while still providing strong support and durability.
Key Features
- Ideal for 3/4 or full-length orthotics
- Order the shoe style 2002 by New Balance on the New Balance website
- Available in medium and wide widths
Sizing Tip:
Order one full shoe size larger when fitting 3/4 or full-length orthotics.
Get a Personalized Shoe Recommendation
Choosing the correct shoes for children who wear orthotics can be challenging, especially since different orthotics require different amounts of space inside the shoe.
If you are unsure which shoes will work best for your child’s orthotics, feel free to contact me. I am happy to provide personalized shoe recommendations based on your child’s unique foot shape and orthotic type.
📧 fittingchildrensshoes@gmail.com
What Shoe Size Should You Order for Your Kids’ Orthotics?
The shoe size your child needs will depend on the type of orthotic they wear. Some orthotics take up more space inside the shoe than others.
For example:
- Full-length orthotics require more space inside the shoe
- 3/4-length orthotics typically fit in more shoe styles
If you are unsure which shoe size will accommodate your child’s orthotics, you can use my virtual orthotic fitting service to determine the correct size.
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.
No. Most shoes do not provide enough depth or structure to accommodate orthotics. Children need supportive shoes with removable insoles and extra depth so the orthotic can sit properly inside the shoe.
It depends on your child’s foot shape, but many children who wear orthotics do benefit from wider shoes. Orthotics take up extra space inside the shoe, so a wider shoe can help provide enough room for both the orthotic and your child’s foot to fit comfortably.
Yes. In most cases children need about one full shoe size larger for 3/4 or full-length orthotics. Children who wear AFOs or SMOs often need two full shoe sizes larger to properly accommodate the brace. The goal is to stay as close as your child’s current foot size as possible.
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.
Choosing the right kids shoes for orthotics can make a significant difference in your child’s comfort, posture, and mobility. Shoes that provide extra depth, removable insoles, and strong structure allow orthotics to function properly and provide the intended support.
By pairing the correct orthotics with supportive shoes, you can help improve your child’s stability, alignment, and long-term foot health.
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.