The Best Sandals for Narrow Feet – Find the Secret Here!
Have you noticed that every single pair of sandals that you try on your kids’ feet is too wide and gaps too much around the heels? In many online forums such as Reddit and Quora families complain that they can’t find a single pair of sandals to accommodate their child’s narrow feet. Narrow sandals are crucial for children with narrow feet as they help prevent slippage. The best sandals for narrow feet come with multiple points of adjustability and provide narrow platforms and heel counters.
Are Kids’ Sandals Available in Narrow Widths?
Children’s shoes are available in different widths such as narrow, medium, wide, and extra wide. Unfortunately, shoe companies are not manufacturing sandals in narrow widths anymore, but luckily there are a few sandals capable of fitting children with narrow feet.
Stop Getting Sandals that Are Too Wide – Prevent Blisters and Sores
Fitting your child in sandals that are too loose means that your child’s feet might move too much inside the sandals, and the constant friction between your kids’ feet and the sandals might result in painful blisters. These foot conditions can be particularly problematic for children, who may be less able to communicate their discomfort.
Key Features of Narrow Sandals for Kids
1. Narrow Heel Counters: Narrow heel counters prevent heel slippage and ensure the sandal stays securely on the foot. A secure heel counter is critical for maintaining foot stability.
2. Narrow Platforms: The platform of the sandal should align with the overall shape of your child’s narrow foot, providing support without extra space that could lead to instability.
3. Adjustable Straps: Adjustable straps accommodate slight differences in foot width and provide a tailored fit. You will be able to pull the Velcro straps tightly to secure your child’s narrow feet in place.
Top Sandal Brands for Narrow Feet
When it comes to selecting sandals for narrow feet, certain brands stand out for their commitment to quality and fit. Two of the top brands that I recommend are Naturino and Garvalin. Both offer designs specifically tailored to accommodate narrower foot shapes.
The shoe company Keen actually has one style called the Moxie that works really well for kids with narrow feet. Many people think of Keens as wide and clunky but that specific model is lightweight and flexible.
There are also generic shoe brands that have certain sandals that fit a lot narrower than others, and those will be included in my recommendations below. 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 Sandals for Kids with Narrow Feet – No More Gaps and Blisters
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. The sandal recommendations are divided into two columns, the first column has my water play recommendations, and the second column has my dressier ones.
1. Moxie by Keen
Keen is well-known for its durable and supportive footwear. The Moxie sandal is one of the best sandals for narrow feet as it provides narrow heel counters and platforms, as well as a toggle and adjustable strap to make sure the sandal stays securely in place.
Key Features
- Order the Moxie sandal by Keen on Zappos or Amazon
- 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
- I suggest that you get this sandal a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
2. Hurricane by Teva
Teva’s Hurricane sandals are versatile, offering a secure fit for narrower feet. They come with adjustable Velcro straps, allowing you to customize the fit to your child’s narrow foot shape.
Key Features
- Order the sandal Hurricane by Teva on Zappos or Amazon
- Fits narrow and medium feet
- Triple Velcro straps provide a customized fit
- Stable base of support
- I suggest that you get this sandal a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
3. Naturino Fashion Sandals
These Naturino fashion sandals are designed with narrower feet in mind, offering a snug fit without compromising on style. These narrow dress sandals are perfect for dressier occasions while still providing the necessary comfort and support.
Key Features
- Order this fashion sandal by Naturino on Amazon
- Fits narrow and medium feet
- Genuine leather that adjusts to your child’s feet with time
- Cushioned insole
- I suggest that you get this sandal a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
4. Taror by Naturino
These narrow sandals for boys are made from soft leather materials that offer both comfort and breathability. The double Velcro straps help hug your child’s feet more effectively.
Key Features
- Order the sandal Taror by Naturino on Amazon
- Fits narrow and medium feet
- Genuine leather that adjusts to your child’s feet with time
- Cushioned insole
- I suggest that you get this sandal a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
5. Aryli by Naturino
Naturino’s Aryli narrow dress sandals provide a cushioned sole that offers added comfort, making them suitable for extended wear. They are a great option for parents who want to combine style with practicality.
Key Features
- Order the sandal Aryli by Naturino on Amazon
- Fits narrow and medium feet
- Leather lining and footbed
- 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
- I suggest that you get this sandal a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
6. Tanza by Teva
Teva’s Tanza sandals are a practical choice for narrow feet, offering multiple adjustment points for a tailored fit. The cushioned sole provides comfort for all-day wear, making it a great option for active kids who love exploring.
Key Features
- Order the sandal Tanza by Teva on Zappos or Amazon
- Fits narrow and medium feet
- Triple hook-and-loop closure system for easy on and off
- EVA footbed is cushioned for all-day comfort
- I suggest that you get this sandal a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
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. Keep in mind that depending on how narrow your child’s feet are you might have to compromise on the amount of growing room.
Contact Me for Specific Recommendations: If you’re unsure about sizing or fit, feel free to contact me via email: fittingchildrensshoes@gmail.com for personalized recommendations tailored to your child’s specific needs. As an experienced shoe fitter, I can provide guidance and advice to help you find the best sandals for your child’s narrow feet.
How to Order the Correct Shoe Size Online in Two Simple Steps
Ordering shoes online can be a convenient option, but it’s crucial to order the correct size to avoid the hassle of returns. If you are unsure about what shoe size you should order online I suggest that you use a virtual shoe fitting method I provide for free.
How to Find Out If Your Kids’ Sandals Fit Correctly?
Check the Length and Width: The sandal should be snug in the heel and allow a thumb’s width between the end of the sandal and the longest toe. The width should provide a secure fit without squeezing the foot.
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 fits the shape of the child’s narrow feet a lot better? The sandal on the right is gaping too much around the heel area.
Comfort Test: Have your child walk around in the sandals. They should feel comfortable and secure, with no pinching or rubbing.
Narrow Sandals for Kids – Watch Video!
In this video we’ll explore what features your kids’ sandals must provide to accommodate their narrow feet, showcase my top picks on the market, and share tips on how to choose the best pair for your child’s needs. I will also show you real-life examples of children testing the sandals and how to check if the sandals are fitting correctly.
Why Are Narrow Shoes for Kids So Hard to Find?
The challenge lies in the fact that mass production focuses on average foot dimensions, leaving those with narrower feet with fewer choices. Fortunately, some brands recognize this gap and offer options designed for narrow feet.
Can Tongue Pads Help and Can They Be Used Inside Sandals?
Tongue pads are often used in closed shoes to provide a snugger fit, but what about sandals? While tongue pads are not typically used in sandals due to their open design, they can be a temporary solution if the sandal’s straps allow for it. If the sandal design permits, tongue pads can offer additional cushioning and support.
Bonus Resources: Narrow Everyday Sneakers and Dressy Sandals
For those seeking additional footwear options, consider exploring dress sandals and sneakers specifically designed for narrow feet.
By the way, if you’re also searching for narrow sandals for women and happen to wear a women’s shoe size 8 ½ or smaller you can wear the kids’ version of the sandals and end up saving a lot of money. The kids’ version of the sandals will offer you the same quality and comfort for about half the price that you would normally pay for your shoes.
If you’re ever in doubt or need more personalized advice, don’t hesitate to reach out and I will offer guidance based on your child’s specific needs.
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
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!
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!
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.
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
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: Deep and Supportive Shoes for Kids Who Wear Orthotics
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 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 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!