What Are the Best Shoe Brands for Toe Walking Children?

February 22, 2025 Toe Walking Juan Valenzuela 0 - Comments

Has your medical professional advised you to get a pair of shoes to help treat and prevent your child’s toe walking condition but didn’t specify which shoe brands or styles to get? I have created several anti-toe walking shoe resources that helped prevent children from walking on their toes. Supportive footwear can make a significant difference in promoting proper walking habits, so I’ll guide you through the best shoe brands for toe walking children in 2025. 

My Experience as a Passionate Shoe Fitter

Having worked in a specialized children’s shoe store for many years, I’ve seen firsthand the difference that the right pair of shoes can make. As a shoe fitter deeply committed to the well-being of children, I understand the vital role that proper footwear plays in their development, especially for those who toe walk.

Juan Valenzuela fitting children's shoes at the shoe store where he works.
Juan Pablo Valenzuela fitting children’s shoes at an independent local shoe store in Maryland, United States.

Before I show you a list of the best shoe brands for toe walking children, let me share something with you that is of utmost importance: The need for properly fitting shoes. Most medical professionals agree that proper fit is just as important (if not more important) than the support or material that the shoes are made of.

Find Out Why Proper Fit Is So Important

Did you know that several foot conditions are aggravated by having the child wear shoes that don’t fit properly? Several pediatric physical therapists are frustrated as they notice how many children with physical disabilities are walking around in shoes that don’t fit properly. For example, one physical therapist mentioned how he worked with many children who toe-walk and they were wearing shoes that were simply too big for their feet. The shoes then tend to “slip off” and he noticed that children will often stay up on their toes as a way to help keep the shoes on their feet.

Below you can find an example of a family of toe walking children who noticed an immediate difference after having their child’s shoes properly fitted:

It’s clear that the fit of a shoe can significantly influence a child’s gait, impacting their overall posture and balance. Shoes that are too big can exacerbate toe walking by making it easier for kids to rise onto their toes. Conversely, shoes that are too small can restrict natural movement and cause discomfort. Take advantage of my virtual shoe fitting resource as it will help you figure out exactly what shoe size you should order online.

Let’s dig right into the best shoe brands for children who walk on their toes.

Top Shoe Brands for Toe Walking Children

There is no one-size-fits-all shoe brand for children who toe walk. However, among the three brands I recommended, several styles have been particularly effective in helping treat and prevent toe walking.

1. Memo Shoes

This is a European shoe brand that manufactures shoes made of natural materials that adapt well to the child’s foot, without causing discomfort and skin irritation. The shoes come with a rigid heel counter that helps keep the foot in the right position and the front part of the shoes is rigid instead of overly flexible to help discourage toe walking.

Orthopedic sandal with a stable base of support.
An image of a pair of Memo orthopedic shoes for children.

Memo shoes are at the higher end price-wise, as they are orthopedic shoes. I understand that not all families can invest in a pair of orthopedic shoes for their children. The good news is that there are regular/everyday sneakers that can be very effective in helping treat a child’s foot condition (depending on the degree), and will cost a lot less than orthopedic shoes.

2. New Balance

You probably already heard of this shoe brand as it manufactures children’s and adult shoes as well. While not specifically designed for toe walking, their shoes provide exceptional arch support and a snug fit that can help discourage toe walking tendencies. Their designs are versatile and suitable for both everyday wear and active play.

990v6 New Balance shoe with laces in black for kids.
An image of a pair of New Balance shoes that are effective in preventing toe walking.

I have found certain New Balance styles that work really well for toe walking children as they provide firm heel counters, supportive outsoles, and they are rigid at the front instead of overly flexible. One huge advantage of this shoe brand is that it manufactures shoes that can accommodate different foot shapes such as medium, wide, and extra wide feet.

3. Princepard

This shoe brand manufactures similar shoes as Memo but they are more affordable. Princepard shoes are made of genuine leather and breathable mesh.

Orthopedic shoe for kids with foot problems.
An image of a pair of orthopedic shoes made by Princepard to help discourage toe walking.

The shoes provide a high-top design that can help improve the child’s stability and maintain correct posture.

Contact Me for Personalized Shoe Recommendations

While the brands mentioned above offer supportive options, it’s crucial to consider your child’s unique foot shape and condition. As a dedicated shoe fitter, I offer personalized shoe recommendations tailored to your child’s needs. Feel free to contact me via email so I can send you specific anti-toe walking shoe recommendations suited to your child’s foot shape.

Can Shoes Help Treat My Child’s Toe Walking?

There is no guarantee that shoes will help your child walk heel to toe, but in some cases, they can make a world of difference when it comes to helping treat toe walking. I suggest that you consult with your medical professional and discuss whether your child might benefit from wearing the correct types of shoes, or whether your child might also benefit from wearing an orthotic.

Access My Resources for Anti-Toe Walking Shoes

I’ve put together a helpful guide to assist parents in finding the best anti-toe walking shoes for kids, including sneakers, sandals, and boots. This guide is designed to suit different foot shapes and sizes, making sure your child gets the perfect fit.

Testimonials from Families

Many families have experienced positive outcomes by choosing the right footwear for their toe-walking children. Here are some testimonials from parents who have seen success with the shoes I recommended:

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The Importance of Taking Early Action!

Parents who take a proactive approach often notice improvements not only in their child’s walking patterns but also in their overall physical activities. Investing in the correct footwear during these formative years can support a child’s growth and prevent future issues related to posture and balance.

Toe walking can lead to several issues with your child’s feet and legs. Below is a list of why toe walking should not be left untreated:

  • Muscle stiffness
  • Muscle tightening
  • Pain in the Achilles tendon
  • Tendon stiffness
  • Poor coordination

When Should Toe Walking Be a Cause for Concern?

Toe walking in children who are between the ages of one and five can often be easily managed with the correct type of footwear. However, unresolved toe walking after age five or older, although still manageable, can become a bit more difficult to control. The longer the child continues to toe walk may lead to a sustained habitual pattern and ultimately risk of acquired tendon tightness and ankle stiffness.

I understand how frustrating it can be for many families of toe walking children who are told to wait as their child’s toe walking condition might resolve on its own. Yes, the possibility that the condition might resolve on its own exists, but why not do everything in your power to help the child? I believe that just waiting for the child’s condition to magically disappear is playing the waiting game.