The Most Supportive New Balance Kids’ Shoes – Top 7 Styles
Over the years, I’ve heard from countless families seeking help for children with foot conditions like flat feet, weak ankles, or overpronation. Many are told by doctors or therapists to buy supportive New Balance shoes—but often, they’re left wondering which models to choose. The truth is, not all New Balance kids’ shoes offer the same level of support. That’s why I’m here to guide you through finding the most supportive New Balance options, so you can keep your child’s feet comfortable, healthy, and ready for every adventure.
How to Tell Which New Balance Kids’ Shoes Are the Most Supportive
If you’ve browsed the New Balance website, you might’ve noticed that shoe support is often categorized by the last two digits of the model numbers. While this system works well for adult shoes, it doesn’t clearly apply to kids’ styles. So how can you tell which New Balance shoes are actually more supportive for children? Based on my experience, the higher-numbered models tend to include more advanced support features and cushioning. However, that’s not always a guarantee—which is why it’s so important to know what to look for.
Top 7 Most Supportive Kids’ Shoes by New Balance in 2025
As a dedicated shoe fitter with over a decade of experience specializing in children’s footwear and supporting kids with various foot conditions, I’m excited to share my top picks. Let me guide you through the 7 most supportive New Balance shoes for kids. Disclosure: Some links are affiliate links, and we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Top Choice: 990v6 (Laces) 990V6 (Velcro)
The most supportive New Balance shoe for kids, perfect for those with foot conditions, foot or leg pain, or who need extra stability and structure. It’s also an excellent option for children who wear orthotics, offering a secure fit and all-day comfort in both lace-up and Velcro styles.
✅ A top choice for children with flat feet, toe walking, weak ankles, or low muscle tone, and those experiencing foot or leg pain
✅ This model offers exceptional stability and comes in medium, wide, and extra-wide widths to ensure the perfect fit
✅ It also accommodates a wide range of orthotics — including ¾ length, full-length, SMOs, and AFOs
✅ Ideal for children with moderate to strong pronation
✅ Most durable New Balance shoe
❌ Higher prince point
❌ Limited color options
Budget-Friendly Alternative: New Balance 1906 – Slightly lighter and still very supportive at a more affordable price-point.
Second Choice: 2022
These supportive New Balance kids’ shoes are designed for comfort and stability, featuring a secure fit, cushioned midsole, and durable outsole—perfect for children with foot conditions who need extra support throughout the day.
✅ Ideal for children with flat feet, toe walking, weak ankles, or low muscle tone, and those experiencing foot or leg pain
✅ Available in medium and wide widths
✅ Accommodates a wide range of orthotics — including ¾ length and full-length orthotics
✅ Ideal for children with moderate to strong pronation
❌ Doesn’t accommodate AFOs or SMOs
❌ Limited breathability
Also Worth Considering:: 860v11 Slightly lighter and still very supportive at a more affordable price-point.
Third Choice: Fresh Foam Arishi
This model combines plush cushioning with reliable support, making it an excellent choice for children with foot conditions who need comfort and stability throughout their day.
✅ This shoe helps with mild to moderate pronation and eases foot or leg pain thanks to its super-soft Fresh Foam cushioning
✅ It’s available in medium, wide, and extra-wide sizes
✅ Works great with ¾ or full-length orthotics
❌ Not as durable as the 990v6
❌ Not capable of accommodating bulky orthotics such as SMOs or AFOs
Also Worth Considering: New Balance Fresh Foam 625 – Similar price point with additional color options.
Fourth Choice: 574
This New Balance shoe combines style with functionality. It offers solid support and cushioning, making it suitable for kids with flat feet. The shoe is offered at a lower price point.
✅ This shoe provides gentle support for kids with mild to moderate pronation or minor foot pain, keeping them comfortable all day
✅ Available in medium, wide, and extra-wide sizes
✅ Fits ¾ and full-length orthotics with ease
❌ Limited breathability
❌ Not capable of accommodating bulky orthotics such as SMOs or AFOs
Also Worth Considering: New Balance 480
Are You Unsure About Which Shoe Style Will Work Best for Your Child?
To find the perfect New Balance shoe for your child, it’s essential to know both their foot condition and exact foot shape—whether that’s narrow, medium, wide, or extra wide. Not sure about your child’s foot shape? No problem! You can visit your local shoe store for help, or take advantage of the virtual shoe fitting service I created, which makes it easy to measure your child’s feet and find their ideal size right from home.
Contact Me for Tailored Recommendations
If you have specific concerns about your child’s foot shape or need personalized shoe recommendations, feel free to contact me. I’m here to help you find the perfect pair of New Balance kids shoes that cater to your child’s unique needs.
Watch: Most Supportive New Balance Shoes for Kids with Foot Problems
If you’re more of a visual learner—or just want to see how these shoes perform in real life—don’t miss my latest video! I am going to walk you through the top New Balance models (and their best alternatives) designed to help with common issues like flat feet, overpronation, and heel pain. You’ll see close-ups of each shoe, learn about their unique support features, and get expert tips on how to choose the best fit for your child’s needs.
The Importance of Lacing Your Kids’ Shoes Correctly
Here’s something many parents don’t realize: if your child’s shoes aren’t properly tied, they’re missing out on all the support and benefits those shoes are designed to provide. The way you lace and tie shoes can make a huge difference in improving your child’s foot posture and stability.
One last tip: remind your child to always untie their laces when putting shoes on or taking them off. It might seem like a small thing, but it really helps keep the shoes supportive and in great shape for longer. And I’d love your help in making this guide even more useful—share your favorite New Balance supportive shoe recommendations below!
