The Best Sneakers for Toddlers with Extra Wide Feet – Deep and Supportive!

December 2, 2024 Extra Wide Shoes Juan Valenzuela 0 - Comments

Does your toddler have fabulously large, thick feet that need more room? If you can’t seem to find any shoe that fits other than Crocs you came to the right place. When the top part (instep) of your toddler’s feet is high, it can be a lot more challenging to find shoes that fit. I have rounded up a list of the best sneakers for toddlers with extra wide feet and high insteps that are easy to get on and off.

Have You Noticed Red Marks On Your Toddler’s Feet?

If you notice red marks or indentations on top of your toddler’s feet every time you take the shoes off, then this might be a sign that your toddler is wearing shoes that are too narrow. Shoes that are too narrow might end up creating several foot issues for your toddler’s feet such as blisters, calluses, and corns.

Child with imprints on the top part of his foot from wearing shoes that were fitted too narrow.
An image of a toddler’s foot with imprints on the top part of his feet.

Where to Buy Extra Wide Shoes for Toddlers?

Many local shoe stores and online retailers don’t carry a wide selection of extra wide options, making it harder to find styles and sizes. Your best bet is to visit your specialized local children’s shoe stores as these stores prioritize fit and usually carry shoes available in extra wide widths. If you don’t have a store in your area keep on reading as I will show you a list of extra wide sneakers for toddlers.

My Experience Fitting Shoes for Toddlers with Extra Wide Feet

The children’s shoe store where I work specializes in helping children with “complicated” foot shapes such as wide or extra wide feet. I have helped hundreds of toddlers with extra wide feet find the perfect pair of shoes for their feet, and I am confident I will be able to help your child as well. Forget about popular shoe brands such as Nike or Under Armour, we will be looking into the widest styles by New Balance, Stride Rite, See Kai Run, and other generic brands that you might not have heard of.

How Does An Extra Wide Foot Looks Like?

Below you can find examples of toddlers with extra wide feet that I helped find the perfect pair of shoes for their feet:

An image of a toddler with extra wide feet and high insteps standing barefoot.
An image of an extra wide toddler’s foot with a high instep standing barefoot.
An image of a toddler with extra wide feet standing barefoot.

Don’t Make This Common Mistake!

The most common mistake that I see parents make is to assume that buying a pair of shoes labeled as extra wide (XW) will automatically fit the shape of their toddler’s extra wide feet. In addition to finding a pair of shoes that are labeled as extra wide, there are other important features that your toddler’s shoes must provide, and I describe these features below.

Key Features of Extra Wide Toddler Shoes

1. Extra Depth: This feature allows the toddler’s feet to fit deeply inside the shoes and prevents the top part of your toddler’s feet from rubbing against the top part of the shoes. Shoes that provide extra depth are also easy to get on and off.

The difference in depth between a Nike shoe (left image) and a See Kai Run shoe (right image).

2. Rounder Toe-Box: This feature prevents your toddler’s toes from overlapping each other or rubbing against the side of the shoes. 

The difference in toe-boxes between a Nike shoe (left image) and a See Kai Run shoe (right image).

3. Oversized Openings: This feature allows parents to easily slide their toddler’s feet inside the shoes:

Toddler shoes with double velcro straps and oversized openings for easy on and off.
An image of a toddler shoe with double velcro straps that opens up widely for easy on and off.

Shoe Brands for Toddlers with Extra Wide Feet

New Balance extra wide toddler shoes tend to work best. They come in extra wide widths and tend to be the deepest shoes with rounded toe-boxes. Their sizing is also pretty consistent between styles. Saucony and Stride Rite extra wide shoes are also good, but not as wide as New Balances. There is another shoe brand called See Kai Run and even though the shoes don’t come labeled as extra wide, they fit naturally wide.

A shoe fitter fitting a child in a pair of New Balance first walking shoes.
An image of a mother fitting a pair of New Balance extra wide toddler shoes for girls.

Sneakers for Toddlers with Extra Wide Feet that Fit High Insteps

Most of the sneakers below are available in extra wide widths (XW). If the shoes are not available in extra wide widths that means the shoes fit naturally wide. 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.

1. Shoe style 574 by New Balance

This is one of my go-to extra wide toddler shoes as it provides extra depth and it’s available in extra wide widths. Parents like that the shoe opens up widely and it’s easy to get on and off, making it one of the top sneakers for toddlers with extra wide feet.

New Balance kids shoe style 574 in purple color for girls.
New Balance shoe style 574 in grey for boys.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style 574 New-b V1 by New Balance on Amazon or the New Balance website.
  • Available in wide and extra wide widths.
  • Received the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). 
  • Durable rubber outsole pods.
  • Synthetic/mesh upper.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

2. Shoe style Robyne by See Kai Run

The Robyne by See Kai Run is designed with a wider opening and two adjustable straps for easy on and off, making it an excellent choice for toddlers with extra wide feet. Parents love this feature as they can open up the shoe widely.

See Kai Run Russell shoe for boys.
See Kai Run Robyne for girls.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style Robyne by See Kai Run on Zappos or Amazon.
  • Not available in wide or extra wide widths but fits naturally wide.
  • Awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).
  • Padded tongue and collar for added comfort.
  • Breathable textile lining and cushioned insole.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

3. Shoe style Holly Mary Jane by Stride Rite

This Mary Jane is both stylish and practical, perfect for dressier occasions. It provides extra depth and comes in extra wide widths to accommodate the shape of toddlers with very wide feet.

Stride Rite Holly Mary Jane in gold for girls.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style SR Holly by Stride Rite on Zappos or Amazon.
  • Available in extra wide widths.
  • Awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).
  • Padded tongue and collar for added comfort.
  • Supreme comfort care of Ortholite memory foam footbeds.
  • I suggest that you get this Mary Jane shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

4. Ten Little

Parents appreciate that this shoe comes at an affordable price and that the shoe can be adjusted to different foot widths and insteps, thanks to the two adjustable Velcro straps. Even though this shoe is not available in extra wide widths it is one of parents favorite’s sneakers for toddlers with extra wide feet.

Ten Little toddler shoe in black and with double velcro straps.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style by Ten Little on Amazon.
  • Not available in wide or extra wide widths but fits naturally wide.
  • Approved by APMA (American Podiatric Medical Association) and developed with doctors.
  • Flexible, zero-drop soles for natural movement.
  • Breathable textile lining and cushioned insole.
  • Durable toe caps protect little toes.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

5. Shoe style KAZ by Tsukihoshi

The KAZ by Tsukihoshi is a lightweight sneaker with a wide toe box and extra depth, perfect for accommodating extra wide feet and high insteps. The higher price tag is due to its seamless-free interiors, antibacterial insoles, and machine-washable capabilities.

Tsukihoshi kids Kaz in navy blue for boys.
Tsukihoshi Kaz in bright pink for girls.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style KAZ by Tsukihoshi on Amazon.
  • All Tsukihoshi shoes run wider than normal medium-width shoes.
  • Generous forefoot construction allows toes to splay naturally for superior balance and comfort.
  • Padded tongue and collar for added comfort.
  • Machine-washable synthetic leather and nylon mesh upper.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe the same size as your toddler’s current foot size (the shoe fits long).

6. IKIKI

Ikiki shoes are affordable and ideal for toddlers with extra wide feet and high insteps. The shoes provide oversized openings for easy on and off and have become a favorite among parents for their fun designs and practicality.

Ikiki shoes for toddlers with wide feet.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style by Ikiki on Amazon.
  • Not available in wide or extra wide widths but fits naturally wide.
  • Wide opening to make it easy to put on and take off shoes.
  • Synthetic Vegan Leather.
  • Squeaks can be turned on/off with a switch.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

7. Shoe style 990v6 by New Balance

If you are tired of returning every shoe you buy, this shoe will definitely accommodate your toddler’s extra wide feet and high insteps. This is the deepest and widest shoe made by New Balance, and it’s available in wide and extra wide widths. However, many families complain about the high price tag.

New Balance 990v6 toddler shoe in black and grey and with velcro closure.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style 990v6 New Balance on Amazon or the New Balance website.
  • Available in wide and extra wide widths.
  • Leather upper.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

8. Shoe Style Rave Run v2 by New Balance

This shoe provides extra depth and is available in wide and extra wide widths. Parents like that the shoe is offered at an affordable price point.

New Balance Rave Run v2 in bright pink for girls.
New Balance Rave Run v2 in black for toddler boys.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style Rave Run by New Balance on Zappos or the New Balance website.
  • Available in wide and extra wide widths.
  • Breathable mesh upper.
  • Padded collar and tongue.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

9. Shoe Style M2P Journey 3.0 Adapt by Stride Rite

This shoe by Stride Rite provides extra depth and extra long Velcro straps to make sure they fit along your toddler’s extra wide feet and high instep. This adaptable shoe is one of the best Stride Rite extra wide toddler shoes.

Stride Rite M2P Journey 3.0 Adapt in pink for toddler girls.
Stride Rite M2P Journey 3.0 Adapt in grey for toddler boys.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style M2P Journey Adapt by Stride Rite on Zappos or Amazon.
  • Available in extra wide widths.
  • APMA approved.
  • Leather upper.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

10. Shoe Style Fresh Foam Arishi v4 by New Balance

The Fresh Foam Arishi V4 by New Balance is known for its plush cushioning and lightweight feel. The shoe is available in extra wide widths to accommodate various foot shapes. This is one of the best New Balance extra wide toddler shoes.

New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi v4 in light blue for toddler girls.
New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi v4 in grey for toddler boys.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style Fresh Foam Arisihi by New Balance on Amazon or the New Balance website.
  • Available in wide and extra wide widths.
  • No-sew tip for added durability where kids need it most.
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

Reach Out for a Personalized Shoe Recommendation

Every child’s foot is different. Some children may have high arches, while others have flat feet. These variations require different levels of support and cushioning. The right shoe can vary from child to child, so it’s important to consider your toddler’s specific foot shape and needs when making a choice. If you have any questions or need a more personalized recommendation, you can also contact me via email and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

In the meantime, I have created several different resources for toddlers with extra wide feet, in case you need a pair of seasonal shoes such as sandals or boots.

Find Out Your Toddler’s Exact Shoe Size

A good fit is essential for maintaining healthy foot development. Ill-fitting shoes can cause pain, blisters, and even long-term structural problems. Shoes that are too tight can hinder circulation, while those that are too loose can cause instability.  I help families determine exactly what shoe size they should order online with a free virtual shoe fitting service.

Seamless Socks for Toddlers with Extra Wide Feet

Parents should make sure that their toddlers wear socks with their shoes. Wearing shoes without socks can lead to the buildup and formation of bacteria inside the shoes. Certain socks can make your toddler’s toes overlap or rub against one another, so it’s important that you look for socks that are seamless and that you order them in the correct size.

Toddler wearing a pair of white breathable and seamless socks.
An image of a toddler with extra wide feet wearing seamless socks.

Seamless socks are great because they allow your toddlers to freely move their toes and prevent them from overlapping against one another.

Be Careful About Fitting Your Toddler in Narrow Shoes

You have no idea how many toddlers can develop blisters from wearing shoes that are too narrow. The most common place they get blisters is on their small toe (pinky toe):

Child developed a blister on his small toe from wearing narrow shoes.
An image of a toddler who developed a blister on his small toe.

Personalized extra wide shoe recommendations from a shoe fitter can be invaluable. I have tested several different sneakers for toddlers with extra wide feet, so reach out through the comments section below and I will be happy to help your child as well.