Toe walking, often seen in young toddlers, refers to the practice of walking on the toes or balls of the feet without having your heels touch the ground.

While it's usually harmless in the beginning, persistent toe walking can put unnecessary strain on the knees, hips, and lower back, leading to injuries and joint pain later in life. Addressing this issue early is crucial, as the right shoes can often make all the difference.

» Little one taking first steps? Find the best shoes for learning to walk

What Causes Toe Walking in Kids?

Thankfully, in most cases, toe walking in toddlers shouldn't be a cause for concern. It's a common occurrence that kids usually grow out of, but it shouldn't continue after two years of age. If it does, it could be a sign of:

• A short Achilles tendon
• Cerebral palsy and other neurological disorders
• Muscular dystrophy
• Autism

» Read our parents' guide to helping your little one to walk

Addressing Toe Walking in Toddlers

For children over two, prolonged toe walking can indicate neurological immaturity or medical conditions. It's essential to consult a medical professional if your toddler consistently walks on their toes.

To assist, we've compiled a list of the top orthopaedic shoes for tippy-toe walkers, including high-top sneakers and sandals recommended by podiatrists for tippy-toe walkers.

» Discover why orthopaedic shoes are a game changer for kids

1. Best High-Tops for Tip-Toe Walkers: Galactic Nichole Sneakers

Navy stars supportive high-cut sneakers

Features

• Shoelaces + Zipper
• Extended ankle support
• Anti-bacterial insoles
• Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
• High built-in arch support

The Galactic Nichole navy stars high-cut sneakers are a supportive and stylish choice for little ones who love to walk on their tiptoes.

Extended ankle support, high built-in arch support, and shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles are key elements that help stabilie the ankle and foot, encourage proper walking mechanics and heel striking, and reduce the tendency for tippy-toe walking. With these stellar sneakers, it's time to say bye-bye to tippy-toes!

» Understand the role of arch support in children's foot health

The anti-bacterial insoles and secure fastening (shoelaces plus zipper) make these shoes comfy and easy to get on. Plus, the sturdy material and integrated arch support are durable enough to help correct the gait and keep up with your little busy bee.

» Discover supportive toddler sandals & sneakers for worry-free walks

2. Best Boys' Sandals for Toe Walking: Captain Caleb High-Tops

Orthopaedic high-top ankle sandals

Features

• Three adjustable Velcro straps
• Extended ankle support
• Anti-bacterial insoles
• Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
• High built-in arch support
• Air valves for moisture reduction
• Thomas heel

The stylish Captain Caleb orthopaedic high-top ankle sandals offer incredible comfort and support for young adventurers due to their extended ankle support and high built-in arch support. The three adjustable Velcro straps provide a secure fit, enhancing stability, while the unique Thomas heel design ensures a confident step for adventurous kiddos.

All these design elements help encourage a natural flat-foot walking position for healthy foot development and walking habits, making them ideal for tippy-toe-walking youngsters.

» Keep your little adventurer's feet secure and supported with orthopaedic footwear

3. Best Girls' Sneakers for Toe Walking: Blushful Betty High-Tops

Supportive high-cut sneakers

Features

• Two adjustable Velcro straps
• Extended ankle support
• Removable insole
• Anti-bacterial insoles
• Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
• High built-in arch support

The Blushful Betty supportive high-cut sneakers are designed to help stabilise the foot and ankle, encouraging a flat-foot walking pattern for little girly girlies. The two adjustable Velcro straps ensure a secure fit, while the removable and anti-bacterial insoles promote foot hygiene.

Blushful Betty high-tops are a perfect blend of style and functionality for young toe walkers. Crafted from high-quality leather and breathable materials, these sneakers ensure your little one's feet stay healthy and happy, making them perfect for aiding activities in young adventurers and toe walkers alike.

» Step out in style and stability. Browse our full toddler collection!

4. Best Anti-Toe-Walking Boots For Kids: Rocky Rick Boots

Navy orthopaedic high-top boots

Features

• Shoelaces + Zipper

• Extended ankle support

• Removable insole

• Anti-scratch/scuffs toe cap protector

• Anti-bacterial insoles

• Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles

• High built-in arch support

• Air valves for moisture reduction

• Thomas heel

The Rocky Rick navy orthopaedic high-top boots are excellent for kids who walk on their toes. thanks to their extended ankle support, high built-in arch support, and shock-absorbent outsoles. The combination of shoelaces and zipper ensures a secure fit—easy to lace, durable, and with an anti-scratch toe cap, they're perfect for young adventurers.

All these thoughtfully designed elements help stabilise the ankle and foot, encouraging a natural walking pattern. Your little adventurous spirit will adore these supportive and stylish boots, designed for comfortable, confident strides!

» Explore the best durable kids' sneakers for active playtimes

5. Best Winter Shoes For Toe Walking Boys: Ronn Gratty Sneakers

High-top sheepskin sneakers

Features

• Shoelaces + Zipper
• Extended ankle support
• Removable insole
• Anti-scratch/scuffs toe cap protector
• Anti-bacterial insoles
• Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
• High built-in arch support
• Air valves for moisture reduction
• Thomas heel

The Ronn Gratty high-top sheepskin sneakers, ideal for tip-toe toddlers, feature a cozy wool lining perfect for autumn and wintertime, offering high-top style and function. The rich navy colour with brown accents appeals to young gentlemen with a classic colour preference.

These high-tops offer extended ankle support, high built-in arch support, and removable insoles. The two adjustable Velcro straps ensure a secure fit, while the genuine nubuck leather and natural wool lining keep feet warm and dry, promoting a flat-foot walking pattern. The reinforced heel strike also ensures proper foot placement during the gait cycle.

» Explore more trendy and cool Velcro shoes for your little ones

6. Best Boots for Toe Walking for Girls: Pearly Sheila Silver Boots

Silver orthopaedic high-top boots

Features

• Shoelaces + Zipper
• Extended ankle support
• Anti-bacterial insoles
• Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
• Extended tongue (best fit for AFO)
• High built-in arch support
• Air valves for moisture reduction
• Thomas heel

Dress your tip-toe-walking princess in Pearly Sheila boots, stylish silver boots that provide extended ankle support, high arch support, and shock-absorbent soles, encouraging proper walking mechanics. A Thomas heel, in combination with high ankle and arch support, improves heel striking for little toe-walking girls. Antibacterial materials and breathability ensure healthy feet for your little ones.

FirstWalkers' Pearly Sheila boots fit and support growing feet, allowing your little lady endless fun in princess style.

» Dress your little princess in supportive style with orthopaedic shoes

7. Best Unisex Sneakers for Toe Walking: Benji the Scout Sneakers

Supportive high-cut sneakers

Features

• Extended ankle support
• Removable insole
• Anti-bacterial insoles
• Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
• High built-in arch support

Your little one will adore the design and supportive features of Benji the Scout sneakers, perfect for toe-walking children. The secure fit and anti-bacterial insoles ensure stability and hygiene, encouraging a flat-foot walking pattern. They feature inbuilt arch support and extended ankle support for a proper gait.

Stylishly designed, they boost confidence for any occasion—fine details make this shoe a standout, from the natural honey-coloured soles to the striped shoelaces adding a pop.

» Scout out adventures with stellar support from durable footwear

8. Best Boys' Velcro Boots for Toe Walking: Velvet Logan Velcro Boots

Navy orthopaedic high-top boots

Features

• Two adjustable Velcro straps
• Extended ankle support
• Anti-bacterial insoles
• Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
• High built-in arch support
• Air valves for moisture reduction
• Thomas heel

Classic and orthopaedic, the navy and blue Velvet Logan boots are designed with the needs of growing tippy-toe walker boys in mind. The Velcro straps make it easy for toddlers and young children to put on and take off the boots independently, promoting self-care and independence.

Besides being easy to wear, our Velvet Logan high-tops offer traditional support, making them a must-have for a young gentleman's wardrobe and ideal for toddlers learning to walk.

» Find out whether high-tops or low-tops protect your kid's feet better

The firm arch support, ankle support, and Thomas heels work together to ensure correct foot placement and positioning throughout the gait cycle. This helps prevent tip-toe walking tendencies and supports proper foot development.

» Stride in style with snug support from dependable kids’ leather shoes

9. Best Girls' Sandals for Toe Walking: Precious Mia Ankle Sandals

Orthopaedic high-top ankle sandals

Features

• Three adjustable Velcro straps
• Extended ankle support
• Anti-bacterial insoles
• Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
• High built-in arch support
• Air valves for moisture reduction
• Thomas heel

Made of premium leather with three Velcro straps, Precious Mia sandals ensure a snug, supportive fit.

The shock-absorbent outsoles and air valves offer comfort and moisture reduction—ideal for toe walking girls needing extra foot support, making them the perfect choice for summer wear. These beautiful Precious Mia sandals have a Thomas heel, high ankle support, and arch support, ensuring proper heel striking.

Antibacterial materials and breathability keep little feet dry and healthy in the warm months, mirroring the support of closed-toe shoes.

» Recognise if the baby's sweaty feet indicate hyperhidrosis

10. Trendiest Sneakers for Toe Walking: Billy Smooth Sneakers

Supportive high-cut sneakers

Features

• Shoelaces + Zipper
• Extended ankle support
• Removable insole
• Anti-bacterial insoles
• Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
• High built-in arch support

Billy Smooth sneakers perfectly blend style and functionality. Crafted from soft, quality leather, these high-tops feature a practical lace-and-zipper combo for secure fitting that makes them a cinch to get on and off. The extended ankle support is a total game-changer, and the soles are specifically designed to cushion every jump, skip, and sprint, so your busy toddler's feet stay comfy no matter where the day takes them.

The breathable materials keep those tootsies feeling fresh, even after hours of playtime, and removable antibacterial insoles let you add orthotics if necessary.

» Smooth moves and comfy strides await with quality leather footwear

Stepping Forward With Confidence

The shoes on this list, including orthopaedic high-tops and supportive sandals, provide the perfect blend of style, support, and comfort for tippy-toe walkers. These choices ensure confident and easy steps for growing little feet.

» Explore key things to consider when buying orthopaedic kids' shoes

Combining the right footwear from First Walkers with proper exercises can significantly benefit your little one's development. Visit their site for the best selection of shoes designed for toe-walking toddlers.