Are you having a hard time finding a pair of sandals for your child with narrow feet? Do you feel like every single sandal that you try on your kids’ feet feels too wide and gaps too much around the ankles? I have spoken with several parents who told me how finding a pair of sandals for a child with narrow feet can be a frustrating and time-consuming experience. I have created several resources for children who have narrow feet, and in this specific one, I will show you a list of the best sandals for narrow feet.
Shoe companies are not making sandals in narrow widths anymore, but luckily there are a few sandals left that are capable of fitting children with narrow feet, and I am certain of this because I have fitted these styles before.
My Experience Fitting Children’s Shoes – Over 10 Years of Shoe Fitting Experience!
I have been fitting children’s shoes for over 10 years now, working for a specialized children’s shoe store that specializes in fitting children with “complicated” foot shapes as well as foot and leg problems, but we provide regular shoe fittings as well. I handle approximately 100 shoe fittings/try ons per week. Over the years I got familiar with the best shoe brands for children with narrow feet.
If you provide your children with a pair of sandals that are too wide you might end up creating all sorts of issues with their feet such as blisters, calluses, and corns. What will happen is that your kids’ feet will move too much inside the sandals, and the constant friction between your kids’ feet and the sandals will lead to the issues mentioned above.
What Makes the Sandals I Recommend Effective for Narrow Feet?
Let’s take a look at a child with narrow feet wearing two different pairs of sandals of the same size. Do you notice how the sandal on the left is fitting the shape of the child’s narrow feet a lot better? The sandal on the right is gaping too much around the heel area.
The sandals I recommend all come with a narrower heel counter and a narrower toe-box, which are 2 key features when fitting the shape of a child with narrow feet. The sandals in the image below are the same size, but as you can see the sandal on the right is going to fit the shape of a child with narrow feet a lot better.
In addition to fitting the shape of your child’s narrow feet perfectly, your child’s sandals must provide good support for your child to be able to run around and play comfortably during the summer.
I am not a fashion expert, and I always recommend shoes that are functional rather than fashionable, but the sandals I will describe below have gotten many positive reviews in terms of how good they look.
With the summer season fast approaching, you must start looking for summer sandals that will fit the shape of your kids’ narrow feet perfectly. While no shoe company makes summer sandals in narrow widths, I know which sandal styles fit narrower than others, and I will help you find them. Whether you are looking for a water play or dressy sandal, I got you covered!
The 3 Best Kids’ Shoe Brands for Narrow Feet – Let’s Find Out!
I have fitted children with narrow feet in everyday summer sandals that are waterproof, provide great traction, and have enough support to be worn for most of the day.
There are certain shoe brands that you will want to start getting familiar with, and their names are Naturino, Garvalin, and Keen (it actually only has one style that works for narrow feet).
Naturino and Garvalin are both European shoe brands that provide shoes made of high-quality materials and excellent comfort and support. I am sure have heard of Keen sandals since they are the most popular summer sandals for children. There is one style made by Keens that will fit a child with narrow feet. This type of sandal provides great support and traction, and your child can wear it for most of the day.
Narrow Sandals for Kids – The 4 Most Important Features!
1️⃣ Support: This feature minimizes the impact that your kids’ feet take every time they impact the ground.
2️⃣ Lightweight and flexible: This feature helps prevent your kids’ feet and legs from easily getting tired.
3️⃣ Traction: This feature helps prevent your child from slipping and falling, especially when walking around wet surfaces.
4️⃣ Durable: These sandals are all made from high-quality materials, meaning that your child will outgrow these sandals before they are ready to be replaced.
I am always emphasizing to parents that it doesn’t matter how many features a particular shoe style provides. If the shoes are not fitted properly, the child won’t get any of the benefits that the shoes have to offer. What’s even worse, you might end up creating several foot issues to your child’s feet such as blisters, calluses, and corns.
How to Retrieve Your Child’s Exact Foot Length and Shape
I created a resource that showcases the best fitting children’s shoe stores by state:
The Best Kids’ Shoe Stores in the United States – Where To Go for Proper Fittings
If after looking at that resource you still can’t seem to identify a shoe store in your area, then proceed to take a look at an article I created that describes the simplest, yet most effective way to figure out your child’s foot size from home:
How to Measure Your Kids’ Foot – 2 Simple Steps to Determine Foot Length and Foot Width
Now that you know how to measure your kids’ foot size from home and what features these sandals provide, you are ready to take a look at the best sandals for narrow feet.
Below you can find the best water play sandal styles for children with narrow feet. These sandals provide excellent support and can be worn for most of the day. Disclosure: Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases.
The Best Sandals for Narrow Feet ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Please note that many of the sandals featured below come in several color options, so if your child likes a specific model, please make sure to click through and see if they have the desired color.
Water Play Sandals
- Fits narrow and medium feet
- Two adjustable hook-and-loop straps for easy on/off and an always-secure fit
- Machine washable
- Eco Anti-Odor for natural odor control
- Order this sandal half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Fits narrow and medium feet
- Open-toe with support and protection underfoot
- Two adjustable hook-and-loop straps for easy on/off and an always-secure fit
- Machine washable
- Eco Anti-Odor for natural odor control
- Order this sandal half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Fits narrow and medium feet
- Metatomical EVA footbed provides excellent arch support and cradles the natural contours of the foot
- Adjustable hook-and-loop strap with bungee closure for a secure fit
- Machine washable
- Order this sandal half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Fits narrow and medium
- Metatomical EVA footbed provides excellent arch support and cradles the natural contours of the foot
- Adjustable hook-and-loop strap with bungee closure for a secure fit
- Machine washable
- Order this sandal half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Fits narrow and medium feet
- Eva foam footbed cushions and softly supports for all day comfort
- Rigid at the toe box
- Order this sandal half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Fits narrow and medium feet
- Eva foam footbed cushions and softly supports for all day comfort
- Rigid at the toe box
- Order this sandal half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Fits narrow and medium feet
- Metatomical EVA footbed provides excellent arch support and cradles the natural contours of the foot
- Machine washable
- Eco Anti-Odor for natural odor control
- Order this sandal half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Fits narrow and medium
- Metatomical EVA footbed provides excellent arch support and cradles the natural contours of the foot
- Adjustable hook-and-loop strap with bungee closure for a secure fit
- Machine washable
- Order this sandal half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Fits narrow and medium feet
- Metatomical EVA footbed provides excellent arch support and cradles the natural contours of the foot
- Machine washable
- Eco Anti-Odor for natural odor control
- Order this sandal half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Fits narrow and medium feet
- EVA foam footbed cushions and softly supports for all-day comfort
- Rigid at the toe box
- Order this sandal half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
Dress Sandals
- Fits narrow and medium feet
- Comfortable cushioned insole
- Genuine Leather that adjusts to your child’s feet with time
- Adjustable hook-and-loop strap for easy on/off and an always-secure fit
- Order this sandal half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Fits narrow and medium feet
- Adjustable hook-and-loop strap closure
- Lightweight
- Order this sandal half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Fits narrow and medium feet
- Genuine leather that adjusts to your child’s feet with time
- Cushioned insole
- Order this sandal half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Fits narrow and medium feet
- Comfortable cushioned insole
- Genuine Leather that adjusts to your child’s feet with time
- Two adjustable hook-and-loop straps for easy on/off and an always-secure fit
- Order this sandal half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Fits narrow and medium feet
- 100% leather
- Adjustable hook-and-loop strap closure
- Lightweight
- Order this sandal half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Fits narrow and medium feet
- Genuine leather that adjusts to your child’s feet with time
- Cushioned insole
- Order this sandal half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Fits narrow and medium feet
- Genuine leather that adjusts to your child’s feet with time
- Cushioned insole
- Dual hook-and-loop closure
- Order this sandal half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Fits narrow and medium
- Super soft leather upper
- Two adjustable hook-and-loop straps
- Slim fit
- Order this sandal half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
What Shoe Size Should You Order?
In each of the descriptions of the sandals, I indicate whether you need to order a half size or a whole size bigger than your child’s foot size to provide the correct amount of growing room.
Keep in mind that sandals (and most seasonal footwear) are not available in half sizes, so if your child is “in between” sizes please order the larger size to allow for growing room.
Please remember that sandals are not available in half sizes, so if your child is “in between” sizes please order the larger size to allow for growing room.
Let’s Figure Out Your Child’s Correct Sandal Size – Get it Right!
Let me show you a scenario that will help you determine what sandal size to order for your child:
- If your child measures a foot size 7, you will provide your child with a sandal that is a shoe size 8 —since sandals are not available in half sizes.
- If your child measures a foot size 7 1/2, you will provide your child with a sandal that is a shoe size 8.
Makes sense?
Dress Sandals for Kids with Narrow Feet – Stylish and Narrow Fitting!
If you are looking for a dressy sandal for your child, Naturino is the shoe brand that you might want to start getting familiar with.
Naturino has 40 years of experience in the footwear industry which puts them at the forefront of Italian style for children. They design their brand to feel like you are walking on sand, giving the freedom to move without pinching and squeezing with superior protection.
You know, if you have purchased from a particular shoe company before and the shoe style lasted, you will certainly be able to depend on them for your next purchase. That is exactly what Naturino has to offer!
Naturino sandals are trendy and embody a classic style for girls and boys that reflects the latest styles in fashion that children and parents simply love, and their sandals are available in a huge array of colors.
Your daughter will love stepping into these sweet Naturino sandals. With lavish decorations consisting of butterflies and floral designs as well as appliques dazzled with silver-tone sparkles for gleaming appeal.
Where Can You Find Dress Sandals for Kids with Narrow Feet?
If you want to see a selection of the best dressy sandals for boys and girls take a look at the two articles below:
Narrow Sandals for Girls – The Best Summer Sandals for Your Girl with Narrow Feet!
Narrow Sandals for Boys – The Best Summer Sandals for Your Boy with Narrow Feet!
Why Are Narrow Shoes for Kids So Hard to Find? – Let’s Find Out!
New Balance used to manufacture one particular running shoe style for children that was available in narrow widths, but they stopped making it. The shoe company Asics is a great choice for children with narrow feet since this is a shoe company that has been consistent in making shoes that fit on the narrower side. If you want to learn more about the best everyday sneakers for kids that will fit their narrow feet, there is an article I wrote that describes the best running shoes for kids with narrow feet. Please go to the link below:
The Best Shoes for Kids with Narrow Feet – Stop Hurting Your Kids’ Feet!
Most shoe companies stopped manufacturing kids’ shoes that come in narrow widths. Certain shoe styles will definitely fit your child with narrow feet better than others, and certain tips you can follow to make the shoes fit better.
For example, if you are looking for a pair of everyday sneakers for your child, provide them with a pair of shoes that come with shoelaces instead of Velcro closure. Shoelaces will hug your kids’ feet better and eliminate any remaining gaps around your child’s heels.
If you have tried one of the narrowest shoe styles and it still feels too wide for your child’s feet, then I recommend inserting a tongue pad inside the shoe to make the shoe feel and fit better. A tongue pad is an adhesive-backed pad that sticks to the tongue of the shoe to push the heel back and secure your kids’ ankles. The tongue pad also snugs up against the entire shoe, making your child’s feet feel more comfortable and secure inside the shoe.
While tongue pads won’t work in kids’ sandals, they will work in your kids’ everyday sneakers and dress shoes. While I can’t get into too much detail about tongue pads in this article, you can learn everything you need to know about them here:
Leather Shoe Tongue Pad – Stop Heel Slippage
Sandals for Mom and Dad? – Get Them for the Best Price!
Did you know that if you wear a women’s shoe size 8 ½ or smaller you can wear the kids’ version of the shoes and end up saving a lot of money? The kids’ version of the shoes will offer you the same support, quality, and comfort for about half the price that you would normally pay for your shoes.
This shoe size conversion will only work for women, and it’s a secret that most parents don’t even know about it. You can learn about how this shoe size conversion works in mode detail here:
Women and Kids Shoe Size Conversion Chart – Save Big Buying Kids’ Shoes!
Never underestimate the importance of the role that well-fitting shoes play in keeping your kids’ feet healthy and preventing injuries!
Stop fitting your children in shoes that are too wide for their feet. Now that you know which are the best fitting sandals and shoes for children with narrow feet, you can make the most informative decision.
Make sure your children are wearing the correct shoe size, you will end up saving a lot of time and money in the future by preventing foot problems and foot injuries.
Are Any Other Sandal Choices Available?
Do not hesitate to contact me directly at my e-mail if you have any further questions or if you need a different pair of narrow shoes for your child. My e-mail address is:
fittingchildrensshoes@gmail.com
Do you always have a hard time finding narrow sandals for your child? Have you found a particular sandal style that has worked well for your child’s feet? Please share your thoughts and experiences below so other parents can benefit from them!
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My daughter has the narrowest feet and it’s hard to find sneakers for her, so imagine when we have to fit her for sandals. I am glad I came across your website since we order one of your recommendations (Naturino sandals) and it fits the shape of her feet perfectly! We were even able to leave some growing room! You really know what you are talking about man, thanks!
Chris,
Naturino sandals are probably the best fitting dress sandals for children with narrow feet. I know how tough it can be to find shoes for children with narrow feet. I have been doing i for 7 years and it still takes me the longest time to fit them! Please let me know anytime you are having a hard time finding shoes for your daughter, I might be able to guide you in the right direction!
I picked this up as an old shoe dog and found it very interesting.Back in the day it was very difficult to find the narrow sizes as well. Later, I worked at a specialty children’s shoe store and the selection was much better as well as the knowledge to serve the customer.
You provided quite a few choices that will fit kids with narrow feet. I know the shoe brand Naturino fits kids with narrow feet perfectly.
You are correct about how Naturino sandals fit children with narrow feet the best. They tend to be on the higher end when it comes to prices but they are definitely worth the money. They are comfortable, stylish, and provide great support to run around!
My child has the narrowest feet and we always end up empty handed when I take her to the shoe store since we get tired of trying shoes that don’t fit! I like how you break it down with the best choices, that way I don’t have to waste a whole lot of time “guessing” which shoes might fit her feet or not. I ordered two pairs from the shoes you recommended! You seem to have vast experience in the subject.
Finding the correct type of shoes for a child that has narrow feet can be a time consuming and frustrating experience. With sneakers is easier because they are more padded than sandals. Finding dressy sandals for kids that have narrow feet is difficult, that’s why I break it down with the best choices!
I enjoyed reading this article. My daughter has narrow feet and is frustrated when she finds a shoe she likes but it slips right off her heel! I especially enjoyed knowing about the sandal brands on Amazon that are specially made for narrow heels. I only wish they weren’t so expensive! You mention support for their feet which I also think is important. What are your thought on orthotics for kids? She has been complaining about foot pain lately.I wear them myself but I’m not sure when she should start wearing them.
Hello Pat,
Foot or leg pain in children is not normal, I would recommend you take her to your physical therapist and go from there. I have been fitting shoes and orthotics for over 7 years, and I know how the right type of shoe and the right type of orthotic can stop and prevent future foot or leg pain.
I explain this in more detail in this post: Best Shoes for Orthotic Inserts – Don’t Ignore Your Children Feet or Leg Pain!
Hey Juan Pablo,
Thanks for your research and posts! Our now 3-year old son has inherited my narrow flat feet (bummer for him), and I am looking for sandals for him right now. He’s worn Pediped water sandals (Amazon) for two summers now, and they fit alright, but I was wondering if there’s a toddler sandal out there that’s better geared towards narrow feet. I am missing the link you mentioned to the specific Keen and Teva models that cater to narrow feet. Would you mind posting the link to those? Thanks!
Hello Martjin,
Narrow feet are the hardest to fit!I am assuming you are looking for a closed toed sandal for him. that he can get wet! There is one style made by naturino that will work great for his narrow feet:
Naturino Sandals for Toddlers with Narrow Feet: 1st Choice
Naturino Sandal for Toddlers with Narrow Feet: 2nd Choice
Hello,
I am sure you will help many, many parents with your wonderful article. I had no idea that there was a problem with children with too narrow feet and shoes. Bravo for explaining this so well and the long range outcome for children wearing ill-fitted shoes.
It is these seemingly “little” things that can cause so much problems in later life. I certainly hope your post gets a very wide coverage, as more parents need to know what you are saying.
PatSID
Hello,
It is important to provide our kids with the correct pair of shoes to avoid problems in the future.Parents who have kids with narrow feet understand how hard it is to find the correct pair of shoes for them.
Thanks for all of the info. I have found that the new Teva’s measure much wider than the older ones and causes too much heel slipage for my daughter now. I’ll give the other brand a try.
Carlin,
Let me know how they work out!
Hi! My son has a narrow foot and pronates ( he has a little orthopedic in his regular sneakers). which sandal would offer support for water play? Not in the pool but sprinklers and water play at camp that he could climb safely in too? The naturinos don’t say waterproof?
Hello Shara,
For children who pronate I recommend a substantial sandal with good support to minimize the impact on your kids’ feet and legs. The specific sandals I would recommend for your child is this one:
Moxie Sandal for Child with Foot Issues
That sandal is waterproof, supportive and will fit the shape of your son’s narrow feet. Keen sandals are the number one choice for summer camp since they provide good support and traction (so your child can climb on wet and slippery surfaces more safely).
I hope the helps!
I found this article vital to my endless search for narrow shoes for my 10 year old daughter. For sneakers, Asics are her go to. As far as sandals Hoy Sun San sandals worked well. I also bought Umi for dress/school shoes and that worked well until they went out of business last year! I will try Naturino and Primigi. However, she’s a youth size 2-3 and wants more grown up looking sandals/shoes. What size would that be in women’s? What Women’s brands would be narrow enough for her?
Hello Sophia,
I am glad you found the article informative and thank you for letting me know about the Hoy Sun sandals!
As far as I know, most women’s shoes in the US start at a shoe size 5 and above. A kids’ shoe size 3 translates to a women’s shoe size 4 1/2, but as far as I know women’s shoe sizes start at a shoe size 5 and above.
In order to retrieve your daughter’s shoe size in women’s sizes you need to add a whole size and a half to her shoe size.
If you are unsure of your daughter’s exact foot length take a look at the article below:
How to Measure Your Kids’ Foot – 2 Simple Steps to Determine Foot Length and Foot Width