The Best Shoes for Knock Knees – Let’s Help Your Child Walk and Run Straighter!
Have you noticed that your child’s knees angle inwards and almost touch one another? Is your child falling more often and walking or running differently lately? Finding the right pair of shoes for kids with knock knees can be a game-changer. As a passionate shoe fitter who has dedicated years to understanding children’s foot health, I truly believe that the right shoes can make a significant difference in a child’s life.
Knock knees which are scientifically known as Genu Valcum are a condition where the two knees touch each other while standing straight. It’s important to understand that knock knees are the opposite of bow legs, as in the case of bow legs, the knees are far away from each other. While many children experience this condition between the ages of two and five, it often corrects itself as they grow older. However, in some cases, knock knees persist and may require intervention.
How to Determine If Your Child Has Knock Knees
The most simple way to figure out whether your child has knock knees is to have your child stand straight and check if the knees are coming together. It’s important that you make sure your child is standing straight and looking forward. Let’s take a look at some pictures of children with knock knees:
As you can see, this condition can vary in severity, with some children experiencing only mild symptoms while others may have more pronounced knee contact.
Before and After: The Impact of Supportive Shoes
Parents often notice a marked difference in their child’s posture and gait once they switch to supportive shoes. Before-and-after images can illustrate these changes effectively, showcasing the potential improvements in alignment and overall comfort.
The impact of supportive shoes extends beyond physical alignment. Improved posture can lead to better balance and coordination.
Families Testimonials – Get Inspired!
Here are some testimonials from families who have experienced success with the shoes I recommended.
Key Features of Supportive Shoes for Improving Knock Knees
The best shoes for knock knees usually provide these key features:
1. Stable Base of Support: Supportive outsoles provide a sturdy base for your child’s feet. They help in aligning the foot correctly, which can, in turn, influence the alignment of the knees. Look for shoes with firm, yet flexible outsoles that offer good support.
2. Firm Heel Counters: A firm heel counter is crucial as it helps stabilize the heel, preventing it from rolling inward or outward. This stability can help maintain proper knee alignment and reduce the strain on the knees.
3. Straight Lasts: The straight last design promotes even weight distribution across the foot. This can help prevent any undue stress on the knees and encourage proper alignment.
4. Lightweight and Flexible: While support is essential, the shoes should also be lightweight and flexible. This combination allows for natural foot movement and comfort, encouraging children to stay active without discomfort.
Children with knock knees tend to wear out their shoes faster than expected as they tend to put extra pressure on parts of their bodies where they are not supposed to. This won’t happen with the shoes I recommend as they are extremely durable, guaranteeing that your child outgrows the shoes before they are ready to be replaced. 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.
Shoes for Kids with Knock Knees to Improve Foot and Knee Posture
The right pair of shoes can transform how a child with knock knees walks and stands. By improving alignment and providing necessary support, these shoes can alleviate discomfort and enhance a child’s quality of life.
1. Shoe Style 990v6 by New Balance
These are the best shoes for knock knees. The robust outsole helps distribute weight evenly across the foot and reduces strain on the muscles and joints. 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.
- 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 for knock knees are specifically designed to improve foot posture and gait. 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.
- 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 with knock knees. These corrective shoes for knock knees are 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. It offers solid support and cushioning, making it suitable for kids with knock knees. 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.
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 knock knees, as they offer excellent cushioning and stability. 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 feet. 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 New Balance shoes are also considered some of the best shoes for kids with knock knees at a more affordable price point than the 990v6.
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 with knock knees. The versatility of the shoe makes it suitable for both sports and everyday wear, adding value for parents looking for multi-functional footwear.
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. Shoe Style GT-1000 by Asics
The GT-1000 by Asics is a popular choice for kids who require extra stability and support.
Key Features
- Order the shoe style GT-1000 by Asics on Zappos or Amazon
- Available for little and big kids.
- Fits narrow or medium feet.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.
I have seen parents come back to the shoe store to thank us for the difference the shoes have made in their kids’ daily lives. Keep in mind that good supportive shoes will work in cases where knock knees are not too exaggerated, and the ankles are not that far apart.
Get in Touch for Personalized Shoe Recommendations
Every child’s foot is unique, and finding the right pair of shoes requires careful consideration of their individual needs. As a dedicated shoe fitter, I’m here to help you navigate this process. Reach out via email for personalized shoe recommendations tailored to your child’s unique foot shape.
The Importance of Wearing the Correct Shoe Size
To get the full benefits that supportive shoes have to offer, it’s essential to ensure they fit correctly. Ill-fitting shoes can negate the positive effects of supportive features. I’ve created a virtual shoe fitting service to help you determine the right shoe size for your child, whether you’re ordering online or shopping in-store.
If after wearing the shoes I recommend for six to ten months your child’s knock knees and walking gait doesn’t improve, I strongly suggest that we try an orthotic inside the shoes to help align your child’s feet.
Orthotics for Kids with Knock Knees – They Can Make a World of Difference!
In extreme cases of knock knees where the ankles are much further apart, your child might have to wear braces or orthotics to correct the issue, straighten the ankles and reduce or fully eliminate the pain. Shoe inserts for knock knees are a great way of improving your child’s posture but you should always start by trying a pair of supportive shoes first.
If you believe your child can benefit from wearing an orthotic then I suggest that you take a look at a different article I wrote where I describe the best orthotics for kids with knock knees.
Can Children Outgrow this Condition?
Knock knees are common in kids between the ages of two to five. At this stage, knock knees is just a process of growth and there is no need to be too alarmed. You will notice in certain children between those ages how their knees come together as the ankles widen apart. At this stage, it is part of the growth process as it makes kids’ feet stable and keeps the kids balanced as their bones grow and harden.
It is expected that children grow out of the knock knees condition as they keep growing (normally by the age of six) and they usually do grow out of it. However, in rare cases we see this condition of knock knees seem to go beyond the ages of five, and in such cases, there is a need for concern.
What Are the Causes of Knock Knees in Kids?
As I said, knock knees in kids are normal as the kids grow from the age of two to five years. However, some conditions may extend the case of knock knees beyond the usual age. In some cases, knock knees can be caused by diseases such as rickets, which affect bone formation. Obesity is another cause of knock knees.
If your children’s legs fail to straighten as they grow, knock knees might cause pain especially as children involve themselves in sports or high-intense activities.
Knock knees should be monitored as early as it starts to develop and when it seems to be getting worse, visit your physical therapist for advice on the steps to take. Surgery is usually the last resort to correct this issue if we are not able to correct the way that your child walks.
My son is almost 11 and he has knocked knees the foot turn inward and the knees knocked and his right hip side turn inward too…i tried good shoes but he still walks the same just a little improvement…since two years…i took him to orthosurgeon and they didnt recomend surgery because they said surgery is only cosmatic….i need your help i can even call you. I dont know what to do .. we have a history of bad knees in the family and they suffer from pain. MOST GET KNee replacement. My son avoid long waling and activities because of his knee and ankle pain. I live in california / corona…if you know any good doctor hers will be help too. Thank you
Hello Maha,
If you already have tried a good pair of supportive orthotics, the next step is to try a pair of orthotics. What specific shoe style have you tried and is your son wearing them with shoelaces or Velcro closure?
I can recommend an orthotic to help straighten his feet and legs, but I need to know his shoe size first.
Please feel free to email me at: fittingchildrensshoes@gmail.com with any further questions.
Hi, I am looking for a doctor near Sterling Heights or Utica, Michigan 48313 for my 3 year old son. please help i think he is showing signs of pain from his knock knees.
Hello Ciera,
You should make an appointment with his pediatrician and they will be able to guide you from there to a physical therapist or an occupational therapist. I am not familiar with any doctors in the state of Michigan, so I will start there.
I can help you find the correct type of shoes and orthotics after you visit your doctor.
We live in Cary North Carolina and our zip code is: 27519
Would you find a doctor to prescribe for my daughter a right insole and arch to correct her knock knee.
Hello Nahid,
I am not familiar with a doctor in your area. Is there any children’s shoe store that you can take her to? I can show you which are the best shoes in terms of support for a child that has knock knee but It will be hard for me to prescribe an orthotic without looking at her feet and watching her walk.