Best Shoe Brands for Kids with Flat Feet – A Certified Shoe Fitter’s Guide
Last updated: May 2026 | By Juan Valenzuela, Certified Children’s Shoe Fitter
If your child has been diagnosed with flat feet, one of the first questions you are probably asking is: what shoe brand should I be looking for? It is one of the most common questions I get from families at the store — and the honest answer is that not all brands are created equal when it comes to flat feet.
As a certified children’s shoe fitter with over 10 years of experience, I have fitted hundreds of children with flat feet across a wide range of brands and styles. In this guide I will share the two brands I recommend most consistently for children with flat feet, explain why they work, and give you specific shoe recommendations from each brand so you can shop with confidence.
Do Children with Flat Feet Need Special Shoes?
Not necessarily — but they do need shoes with the right construction features. Many children with flat feet live active, pain-free lives without any intervention. However, for children who experience foot pain, fatigue, frequent tripping, or postural issues associated with flat feet, the right shoes can make a significant difference.
Flat feet cause the arch to collapse when the child stands or walks, which often leads to overpronation — the foot rolling inward excessively. Over time, untreated overpronation can contribute to knee pain, hip pain, and poor posture. Supportive shoes help correct this by providing a stable base, firm heel support, and a straight last that guides the foot into a more neutral position.
Before and After: What the Right Shoes Can Do
The images in this article show children with flat feet standing barefoot — feet collapsing and turning inward — versus the same children wearing supportive New Balance or Asics shoes, with feet noticeably straighter. I have seen this transformation hundreds of times at the store. The right shoe is not a cure, but it is one of the most effective and accessible interventions available.
This parent noted, “Before we switched to New Balance, my son often complained about foot pain. After just a few weeks in his new shoes, not only did the complaints stop, but his foot posture and walking gait are lot better. The shoes were not cheap but they made a difference.”
This parent shared, “The change was remarkable. My son used to trip over frequently, but with New Balance shoes, his gait and stability improved noticeably.”
This family shared, “We chose ASICS because our daughter has very narrow feet, and it was the best decision. The shoes have made a noticeable difference in how our daughter walks and runs, and they also fit her narrow foot shape perfectly.”
The Top 2 Shoe Brands for Kids with Flat Feet
After a decade of fitting children with flat feet, these are the two brands I recommend most consistently:
1. New Balance
New Balance is my top overall recommendation for children with flat feet. Their shoes come in true wide (W) and extra wide (XW) widths, feature straight or semi-straight lasts, and have firm heel counters and substantial outsoles that prevent the foot from collapsing inward.
Choose New Balance if your child has:
- Wide or extra wide feet
- A high instep
- Flat feet combined with overpronation
- Flat feet combined with low muscle tone or knock knees
New Balance shoes are also available in a straight or semi-straight last across most styles — one of the most important features for flat feet that most parents never think to check.
2. Asics
Asics is my second recommendation — and my top pick specifically for children with flat feet who have narrow or medium feet. Asics incorporates gel cushioning technology that provides excellent shock absorption, which is particularly beneficial for flat-footed children whose feet absorb impact differently due to the reduced arch cushioning.
Choose Asics if your child has:
- Narrow or medium feet
- Flat feet combined with overpronation
- A need for stability shoes at a moderate price point
How to Choose Between New Balance and Asics
The decision is simple once you know your child’s foot shape. Choose New Balance if your child has wide, extra wide, or medium feet, a high instep, or needs to accommodate orthotics. Choose Asics if your child has narrow or medium feet and you are looking for excellent stability and cushioning at a moderate price point.
Not sure what foot shape your child has? This guide will help you find out in two simple steps.
Supportive Shoes for Kids with Flat Feet by New Balance
Choose New Balance if your child has a complicated foot shape such as wide or extra wide feet, as well as high insteps.
Here are my top 5 New Balance recommendations for children with flat feet. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
1. Shoe Style 990v6 by New Balance
This is my absolute top recommendation for children with flat feet and overpronation. The 990v6 has the straightest last of any mainstream children’s shoe I have tested, combined with a firm heel counter and a robust outsole that distributes weight evenly across the foot and reduces strain on the muscles and joints. The higher price point is the most common concern — but for children who truly need structural support, this shoe delivers results that cheaper alternatives cannot match.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids
- Order with laces on the New Balance website or Amazon
- Velcro version also available on the New Balance website or Amazon
- Accommodates medium, wide, or extra wide feet
- Firm heel counters, stable base of support, and semi-straight lasts
- Ideal for moderate to strong cases of pronation
- Removable insoles
- Sizing tip: Order a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
2. Shoe Style 574 by New Balance
The 574 combines style with functionality — a straight last, firm heel counter, and cushioned midsole at a more affordable price point than the 990v6. Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths with the APMA Seal of Acceptance.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids
- Order on Amazon or the New Balance website
- Also available with laces on the New Balance website or Amazon
- Accommodates medium, wide, or extra wide feet
- Ideal for mild to moderate cases of pronation
- Firm heel counters
- APMA Seal of Acceptance
- Sizing tip: Order a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
3. Shoe Style Fresh Foam Arishi v4 by New Balance
A versatile everyday sneaker that provides a soft, comfortable fit while still delivering the straight last support children with flat feet need. Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths at a very reasonable price point — one of the most popular styles I recommend for families on a budget.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids
- Order on the New Balance website or Amazon
- Also available with laces on Amazon or the New Balance website
- Accommodates medium, wide, or extra wide feet
- Ideal for mild to moderate cases of pronation
- Semi-firm heel counters
- Sizing tip: Order a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
4. Shoe Style 2002/1906 by New Balance
A more affordable alternative to the 990v6 that still provides a straight last and solid structural support. Works well for school and everyday wear for children who need straight last support at a lower price point.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids
- Order the 2002 or 1906 on the New Balance website
- Accommodates medium or wide feet
- Ideal for moderate to strong cases of pronation
- Firm heel counters, stable base of support, and semi-straight lasts
- Sizing tip: Order a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
5. Shoe Style 625 by New Balance
The Fresh Foam 650 features a wide toe box and plush cushioning — an excellent everyday option for children with flat feet who need comfortable all-day support. Parents consistently highlight its ability to maintain shape and support even after prolonged use.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids
- Order on the New Balance website
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Also available with laces on Amazon
- Sizing tip: Order a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
Supportive Shoes for Kids with Flat Feet by Asics
1. Shoe Style GT-1000 by Asics
My top Asics recommendation for children with flat feet. The GT-1000 is a straight last running shoe that provides excellent stability and is one of the few styles I recommend for children with narrow feet. Parents whose children have narrow and flat feet consistently report positive results with this style.
Key Features
- Available for little and big kids
- Order on Amazon
- Accommodates narrow or medium feet
- Ideal for mild to moderate cases of pronation
- Firm heel counters, stable base of support, and semi-straight lasts
- Sizing tip: Order a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
2. Shoe Style Gel-Noosa by Asics
A vibrant, eye-catching style that appeals to kids while providing the stability and cushioning needed for flat feet. The Gel-Noosa features Asics gel technology and a supportive construction that helps guide the foot into a more neutral position.
Key Features
- Available for little and big kids
- Order on Amazon
- Fits narrow and medium feet
- Gel cushioning for shock absorption and stability
- Sizing tip: Order a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
3. Shoe Style Contend by Asics
An affordable and reliable option for children who need comfortable gym and everyday shoes for flat feet. Designed with cushioning and support as the primary focus — ideal for running, jumping, and active school days.
Key Features
- Available for little and big kids
- Order on Amazon
- Fits narrow and medium feet
- Cushioned midsole for shock absorption
- Durable rubber outsole
- Sizing tip: Order a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
4. Shoe Style Cumulus by Asics
A supportive everyday sneaker with a cushioned midsole, durable outsole, and breathable upper. One of my most recommended Asics styles for children with flat feet and narrow feet who need a stability-focused shoe for school and sports.
Key Features
- Available for little and big kids
- Order on Amazon
- Fits narrow and medium feet
- Cushioned midsole for shock absorption
- Durable outsole with excellent traction
- Sizing tip: Order a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
5. Shoe Style Gel-Excite by Asics
The Gel-Excite is one of Asics’ most popular and affordable styles for everyday wear. It provides consistent support and cushioning for flat-footed children, and its versatility makes it suitable for school, sports, and casual wear.
Key Features
- Available for little and big kids
- Order on Amazon
- Fits narrow and medium feet
- Gel cushioning for shock absorption
- Lightweight and breathable mesh upper
- Sizing tip: Order a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
Key Features to Look for in Shoes for Flat Feet
Regardless of which brand you choose, here are the four features that the shoes I recommend all share:
1. Substantial Outsole A thick, supportive outsole prevents the foot from collapsing inward. Press on the midsole from the side — it should feel firm and supportive, not soft and squishy.
2. Firm Heel Counter Press on the back of the shoe. It should feel rigid and firm — not soft and foldable. A firm heel counter stabilizes the heel, reduces pronation, and keeps the foot in a neutral position.
3. Lightweight and Flexible — in the Right Place The shoe must flex at the ball of the foot, not in the middle of the arch. A quick test: gently bend the shoe. If it folds in half, it is too flexible. If it barely bends, it is too stiff. The correct flexibility allows natural movement while still supporting the arch.
4. Straight Last Turn the shoe upside down and look at the outsole. The inner edge should run in a relatively straight line from heel to toe — not curve inward. A straight last helps guide the foot into a more neutral position and prevents the forefoot from pushing outward.
What About Orthotics for Flat Feet?
For children with more pronounced flat feet or significant overpronation, orthotics combined with the right shoes can be one of the most effective approaches available. I have a dedicated guide on orthotics for flat feet here: Best Orthotics for Kids with Flat Feet
Need a Personalized Recommendation?
Every child’s foot is different. If you are unsure which brand or specific style is right for your child’s foot shape, degree of flat feet, or orthotic needs, reach out to me directly at customerservice@fittingchildrenshoes.com and I will provide a personalized recommendation at no cost.
I also wrote the Pediatric Shoe Guide: How to Choose Supportive Shoes for Children with Foot and Gait Conditions — a practical reference for parents and clinicians that covers flat feet and other common foot conditions in detail. Get your copy on Amazon.
Why You Should Avoid Nike Shoes for Kids with Flat Feet
I have noticed that many children ask their parents for popular shoe brands like Nike. However, if your child has flat feet, I strongly recommend staying away from these mainstream brands. I created a video to help you better visualize exactly why — and to show you the difference that the right New Balance shoe can make in preventing pain and improving posture.
As you can see in the video, the difference between a Nike shoe and a New Balance shoe when it comes to heel counter firmness, last shape, and outsole support is significant. A shoe can look athletic and supportive on the outside while providing almost no structural support on the inside — and that is exactly the problem with most Nike styles for children with flat feet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many parents report noticing improvements in posture and gait within two to three months of consistent wear. For best results, combine supportive shoes with any orthotics or therapy recommended by your child’s medical team.
It depends on your child’s foot shape. New Balance is better for wide, extra wide, or high instep feet. Asics is better for narrow or medium feet. Both brands provide the structural support flat feet need — the decision comes down to width.
In most cases, no. Nike and Adidas design their children’s shoes for medium-width feet with curved lasts and soft heel counters that are not appropriate for children with flat feet. I recommend New Balance or Asics instead.
great article! thank you!
I’m so glad you found the article helpful! Let me know if you have any questions about finding the right fit—I’m always happy to help!