Toddler’s Orthotics – The Best Orthotics for Your Child!

December 2, 2025 Orthotics/Insoles Juan Valenzuela 2 - Comments

Has your toddler been diagnosed with a foot condition such as severe flat feet and your medical professional recommends wearing orthotics but hasn’t specified which ones to get? Toddler’s orthotics are specialized inserts designed to support the natural development of children’s feet. As a dedicated children’s shoe fitter, I test shoes and orthotics every day. After trying many options, I’ve narrowed it down to two orthotics I recommend—based on how mild or severe your toddler’s foot condition is. The orthotics that I recommend can help improve foot alignment, improve balance, and prevent future foot issues.

Signs Your Toddler May Need Orthotics

Recognizing when your toddler might benefit from orthotics can be challenging. However, there are several signs to watch for.

If your toddler is constantly tripping, wearing out shoes unevenly, or walking with their toes turned in or out, their feet may need extra support. These small signs often point to alignment issues that orthotics can help correct.

Image of a child with flat feet standing barefoot.
An image of a toddler with flat feet and a moderate degree of pronation standing barefoot.

My Experience Fitting Toddlers in Supportive Shoes and Orthotics

As a shoe fitter with over a decade of experience, I’m passionate about helping children find the right shoes and orthotics. While I’m not a medical professional, I work closely with physical and occupational therapists who refer families to me for expert fitting.

Children’s feet are always developing, and proper footwear and orthotics can make a lasting impact on their growth. Though I don’t have a formal degree in shoe fitting, I’ve always felt a strong responsibility to ensure every child gets the best-fitting shoes for their needs.

My First Recommendation: Footlogics for Mild Cases of Pronation

Designed by orthopedic experts, Footlogics orthotic inserts are a great over-the-counter option for toddlers with:

  • Flat Feet
  • Low Muscle Tone
  • Hypermobility
  • Mild Pronation

They are affordable and provide gentle support to help keep your child’s feet naturally balanced, which can encourage straighter walking and running.

Each insert features a soft built-in arch to guide the foot into better alignment and reduce pressure on the feet and legs, along with a firm heel cup to help stabilize weak ankles. Best of all, in most cases, you can simply place them inside your child’s shoes without removing the original insoles.

Key Features of Footlogics Pediatric Orthotics

Footlogic 3/4-length orthotic with soft arch support.
Gentle arch support that helps guide your toddler’s feet into better alignment.
Footlogic 3/4-length orthotic with deep heel cups.
Firm, deep heel cup designed to stabilize and support weak ankles.

Before and After: The Difference Made by Footlogics Orthotics

Before and after images often show a marked improvement in the alignment of a child’s feet and legs when orthotics are paired with supportive shoes. These improvements are not only noticeable but also indicative of the positive impact orthotics can have on a child’s overall physical development.

Before and after image of a toddler with flat feet standing barefoot and wearing a pair of supportive New Balance shoes.
A toddler with flat feet and mild pronation standing barefoot versus wearing Footlogics orthotic insoles in New Balance shoes.

These changes are not just cosmetic; they can lead to better posture and reduced pain or discomfort as your child grows. Children who start with orthotics early in life often show improved balance and coordination, which can have a positive impact on their overall physical development.

Where Can You Buy Footlogics Orthotic Inserts for Toddlers?

You can either buy them through Amazon or their official website. Keep in mind, this orthotic is best suited for toddlers with mild pronation—not moderate or severe cases.

3/4 Length Footlogics Orthotic Inserts for Toddlers

Footlogics orthotic inserts for toddlers with flat feet.
  • Order the 3/4 length Footlogics orthotic inserts for toddlers on Amazon
  • Fits toddler shoe size 5 through little kid shoe size 13
  • I don’t recommend this orthotic for toddlers with toe-walking tendencies or knock knees
  • 3/4 length makes it ideal to fit in most shoes
  • If needed, you can easily trim them to the perfect size with a pair of scissors for a custom fit
  • It’s not necessary to remove the original insoles of the shoes when fitting this orthotic
  • Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Families Share Their Success with Footlogics Orthotics

Many families have found success in using Footlogics orthotics for their toddlers. They report improved balance and walking patterns. These positive outcomes reflect the effectiveness of orthotics in addressing foot conditions and supporting healthy development.

kids'-orthotics-review
kids'-orthotics-review
kids'-orthotics-review

My Second Recommendation: littleSTEPS for Moderate to Strong Cases of Pronation

One orthotic I’ve come to really trust for toddlers with moderate to strong cases of pronation is littleSTEPS. It’s designed specifically for kids, giving their growing feet the structure and alignment they need to move comfortably and confidently. What I love most is that it offers the kind of support you’d expect from a custom orthotic—but at just a fraction of the cost. Plus, they fit easily into regular shoes, so there’s no need to size up or hunt for extra-wide options.

littleSTEPS orthotics are ideal for toddlers with:

  • Flat Feet
  • Low Muscle Tone
  • Hypermobility
  • Moderate to Strong Pronation
  • Toe-walking
  • Knock Knees
  • Moderate to Strong Pronation
Here’s a close-up of the orthotic I recommend, featuring a deep heel cup designed to improve alignment by stabilizing the heel and lower leg, promoting better posture and foot function.
The orthotic I recommend provides medial and lateral flanges that help maintain proper foot alignment, ensuring stability and support throughout the entire stride.

Before and After: The Impact of littleSTEPS Orthotics

Parents often wonder about the effectiveness of orthotics. While each child’s experience will differ, many see a remarkable improvement in comfort and function.

Here is an image of a child with flat feet, weak ankles, and a moderate degree of pronation standing barefoot.
Here’s the same child wearing LittleSTEPS orthotics. See how their feet are straighter? The deep heel cup and medial/lateral flanges are perfectly aligning their feet.

Where Can You Buy littleSTEPS Orthotics?

Order littleSTEPS® Orthotics from their official website. You must submit a Referral Code to complete your order: JVFCS100121

littleSTEPS orthotics for kids with flat feet and overpronation.
  • It’s not necessary to remove the original insoles of the shoes when fitting this orthotic.
  • The 3/4 length design makes it easier to fit into various shoe styles, not just sneakers.
  • Take a look at this chart to figure out what size to order based on your child’s shoe size.

Before and After: The Difference Made by littleSTEPS Orthotics

Before and after images of a toddler with flat feet standing barefoot and then wearing a pair of supportive New Balance shoes.
A toddler with flat feet and mild pronation standing barefoot versus wearing littleSTEPS orthotic insoles in New Balance shoes.

Unsure About Which Orthotic Might Work Best for Your Toddler?

Not sure which orthotic is right for your toddler? Reach out in the comments below or send me an email—I’m happy to help guide you based on your child’s foot condition and level of pronation.

Let me clarify that the use of orthotics for toddlers is a very controversial subject that is rarely agreed upon by medical practitioners. My opinion is that orthotics should only be used for toddlers when symptoms related to foot and leg function are evident, and they are experiencing foot or leg pain.

Watch My YouTube Video – Top Two Orthotics for Toddlers

In this video, I break down the key features of each orthotic and show you how they work, helping you decide which one is the best fit for your toddler’s unique foot condition.

Integrating Orthotics Into Daily Life

Introducing orthotics into your toddler’s routine should be done gradually. Here are some tips to help with the transition:

  • Start Slowly: Allow your toddler to wear the orthotics for short periods at first, gradually increasing the duration as they become accustomed to them.
  • Monitor for Discomfort: Keep an eye out for any signs of discomfort or irritation, and consult your specialist if issues persist.
  • Encourage Regular Use: Consistency is key to reaping the benefits of orthotics. Encourage your child to wear them during daily activities, especially when walking or playing.

Some parents believe that simply because they found a supportive orthotic they don’t need to worry about investing in good, supportive shoes. The orthotics and shoes work together to keep your toddler’s feet and legs healthy. If you get a good supportive orthotic but it’s fitted in a pair of shoes that are not supportive or the wrong shoe size, your toddler won’t get any of the benefits that the orthotics have to offer.

The Importance of Supportive Shoes

Pairing orthotics with the right shoes is vital. Orthotics alone can provide some support, but they work best when used in conjunction with supportive footwear. Shoes should have a firm heel counter, a flexible sole, and enough room for orthotics to fit comfortably. Ensuring that the shoe fits well with the orthotic will maximize the benefits and prevent discomfort.

1. Shoe Style 990v6 by New Balance

This is the absolute best shoe to accommodate toddlers’ orthotics. 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.

990v6 New Balance shoe with laces in black for kids.
New Balance 990 for kids with laces in purple color.
990v6 New Balance shoe with laces in black for kids.

Key Features

  • 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 getting this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size

2. Shoe Style Gabi by Memo (Orthopedic Shoe)

These orthopedic shoes are ideal to accommodate orthotics and they are specifically designed to improve foot posture and comfort. 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.

Orthopedic shoe for kids made by Memo in grey and yellow with double velcro straps.
Orthopedic shoe for kids made by Memo in grey and pink with double velcro straps.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe Gabi by Memo on Amazon
  • Fits medium and wide feet
  • Also available in a Mary Jane style
  • I suggest getting this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’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 toddlers who wear orthotics.

Supportive brown Stride Rite bootie for toddlers with flat feet.
Supportive Stride Rite white bootie for toddlers with flat feet.

Key Features

  • You can order the shoe SRT Elliot by Stride Rite on Amazon or Zappos
  • Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
  • I suggest getting this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’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 toddlers who wear orthotics inside their shoes.

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 574 New-b V1 by New Balance on Amazon or the New Balance website
  • Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
  • I suggest getting this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size

5. Shoe Style Tracks by Timberland

The sturdy design ensures that toddlers can enjoy outdoor activities without compromising on foot stability or comfort, but this style is slightly heavier than my other shoe recommendations.

Supportive Timberland high-top boot for kids with flat feet.
Supportive Timberland high-top boot for kids with flat feet.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe Tracks by Timberland on Zappos or Amazon
  • Fits medium and wide feet
  • Water-friendly
  • I suggest getting this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size

6. Shoe Style Fresh Foam Arishi v4 by New Balance

This is a versatile shoe that provides a soft and comfortable fit while accommodating orthotics. Families appreciate how this shoe is offered at a very reasonable price.

New Balance kids Fresh Foam Arisihi with wide toe-boxes in navy blue for boys.
New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi v4 in light blue for toddler girls.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe Fresh Foam 650 by New Balance on the New Balance website or Amazon
  • Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
  • I suggest getting this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size

7. Shoe Style 2002 by New Balance

The 2002 model by New Balance is another great option to accommodate orthotics at a more affordable price point than the 990v6.

Supportive New Balance shoe with laces and green color.
Supportive New Balance shoe with laces and white and pink color for girls.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe 2002 by New Balance on the New Balance website
  • Available in medium and wide widths
  • I suggest getting this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size

Do You Need to Remove the Original Insoles?

Not always! Most 3/4-length orthotics can be placed right on top of your toddler’s existing insoles. However, if your child has a unique foot shape—like extra-wide feet or a high instep—it may be better to remove the original insoles first. For step-by-step guidance, check out the resource I created on how to properly fit 3/4-length orthotics.

Will Your Toddler Have to Wear Orthotics into Adulthood?

Your child’s formative years, often referred to as the “golden years of treatment opportunity,” present a critical window where structural changes in the foot and lower extremity can be effectively addressed. During this period, the bones are still malleable, making it easier to correct and guide development in the right direction, which can have lasting impacts as the child grows.

It’s important to note that if addressed early, toddlers may not need to wear orthotics for life. While some teenagers may continue using them long-term, many children only need orthotics for a few years as their feet develop and strengthen. Early intervention can make all the difference!

By understanding the benefits and selecting the right orthotics, you can help ensure that your child grows with a strong foundation. Always consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action for your child’s specific needs.