10 Best Orthopaedic Shoes for Kids With Flat Feet
Give your child's flat feet the support they need. Our curated selection of orthopaedic shoes offers comfort, durability, and style, perfect for active kids who love to play.
Updated September 25, 2024.
While it's often normal for toddlers to have flexible flat feet, some kids may develop true flat feet as they grow older. The condition can lead to pain and discomfort in the feet, ankles, knees, and back.
Orthopaedic shoes, specifically designed to address foot alignment and provide proper support, can help alleviate pain, improve gait, and promote healthy foot development.
Below, we'll explore some of the best orthopaedic shoes for kids with flat feet. We'll consider factors such as support, comfort, durability, and style to help you choose the perfect pair for your child.
» Browse our collection of orthopaedic shoes for toddlers flat feet
Our Picks for the 10 Best Shoes for Flat Feet Kids
- Best overall orthopaedic shoes for girls - Blooming Dahlia
- Best high-top orthopaedic kids' sneakers - Ashley Mizar
- Best high-top orthopaedic boots for boys - Smooth Owen
- Best floral orthopaedic sandals for girls - Niña Florets
- Best printed orthopaedic boys' sandals - Nigel the Harbor Boss
- Best smart orthopaedic sandals - Riley Rower
- Best high-top orthopaedic boots for girls - Diamond Marilyn
- Best unisex orthopaedic kids sneakers - Galactic Nichole
- Best high-top orthopaedic boys' sneakers - Groovy Stephen
- Best sheepskin orthopaedic boots for kids - Mountain Bray
What Experts Recommend
The London Podiatry Centre recommends that children with flat feet wear podiatrist-recommended shoes for kids with flat feet. These supportive and well-fitting orthopaedic shoes provide more room for your child's toes, adequate arch support, less tension on the feet's ligaments, proper heel cushioning, and reduced joint pain.
These kid shoes for flat feet absorb shock with every step your child takes and evenly distribute the body weight to minimize pain.
» Explore the role of arch support shoes in children's foot health
10 Best Orthopaedic Shoes for Toddlers With Flat Feet
1
Blooming Dahlia Sneakers
Complement everyday looks with an elegant touch
Price
$186 AUD
Type
High-top sneakers
Material
Leather
2
Ashley Mizar Sneakers
Enhanced comfort and reduced impact on the feet
Price
$198 AUD
Type
High-top sneakers
Material
Leather
Features
- Two zippers + shoelaces
- Extended ankle support
- Dense heel counter
- Fit with the orthoses (AFOs/SMOs)
- Removable insole
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
Why it's a top pick
Ashley Mizar high-top sneakers are ideal baby orthopaedic shoes for flat feet. With extended ankle support and a dense heel counter, they provide stability for your little one. Plus, they are orthotics-friendly, accommodating AFOs/SMOs.
The removable and anti-bacterial insoles ensure hygiene, and their shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles minimise discomfort. We designed this model to create greater comfort when your little one uses orthotics.
The easy-to-use, two-sided zippers make these shoes a breeze to put on. Just unzip them both, and voila—the little foot slides right in.
3
Smooth Owen Boots
Easy to put on and take off
Price
$186 AUD
Type
High-top boots
Material
Nubuck Leather
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
Why it's a top pick
These shoes come with soft cushioning and ankle support, perfect for flat feet kids. They are easy to put on and take off, and they accommodate orthotics if needed.
The Smooth Owen Boots are also easy to clean and maintain. They're a great choice for boys with flat feet because they help support the arch, provide balance, and absorb shock. Plus, they have heel and ankle support to prevent ankle joint injuries.
4
Niña Florets Sandals
A vintage classic with a hint of sass
Price
$178 AUD
Type
High-top sandals
Material
Leather
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
Why it's a top pick
Niña Florets Sandals are the perfect combination of style and comfort for your little girl's first steps. These vintage-inspired toddler flat feet correction shoes feature a cute all-white design with hot pink flowerets and dotted accents.
The multi-layer soles provide soft cushioning, while the three adjustable Velcro straps ensure a perfect fit.
The high arch design helps with flat feet, reducing pain and promoting healthy foot development. Plus, the air valves keep feet cool and fresh, and the antibacterial insoles offer extra protection against infections.
5
Nigel The Harbor Boss Sandals
Proof that specialty footwear could look great
Price
$186 AUD
Type
High-top sandals
Material
Leather
Features
- Adjustable Velcro closure
- Two buckle straps
- Extended ankle support
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
- Air valves for moisture reduction
- Thomas heel
Why it's a top pick
Nigel The Harbor Boss Sandals are the perfect choice for adventurous boys with flat feet. These stylish high-top sandals offer excellent support and comfort, making them a great option for kids who love to explore.
With built-in high arch support and shock-absorbing soles, these sandals provide relief from flat feet-associated pain.
The added heel cushioning, sole, and extended ankle support ensure proper alignment, allowing your boy to enjoy his adventures without limits.
6
Riley Rower Sandals
A comfortable fit in any situation
Price
$172 AUD
Type
Sandals
Material
Nubuck leather
Features
- Adjustable Velcro closure
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Anti-scratch/scuffs toe cap protector
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
- Air valves for moisture reduction
- Thomas heel
Why it's a top pick
Riley Rower Sandals come in blue and red and are easy to match with any outfit.
They are one of the best sandals for kids with flat feet for a good reason. The shock-absorbent outsoles, arch support, and adjustable Velcro closure ensure a proper fit.
Plus, the Thomas heels lock your little one's foot properly into place while they are running around and playing with their friends. This way, they don't risk rolling their ankle.
7
Diamond Marilyn Boots
Sparkle in the sun like a thousand diamonds
Price
$186 AUD
Type
Boots
Material
Leather
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
Why it's a top pick
Diamond Marilyn boots are a stylish and comfortable choice for little girls with flat feet. These boots have a beautiful design with velvet black laces, and they're sure to make your child stand out.
The built-in high arch support helps with flat feet and reduces foot pain. The removable insole is adjustable, so you can customise the fit as your child's feet grow.
The shock-absorbent outsoles are perfect for dancing and other active activities. With these orthopaedic shoes, your girl can look great, no matter where she goes.
8
Galactic Nichole Sneakers
Who doesn't want to reach for the stars
Price
$186 AUD
Type
High-cut sneakers
Material
Leather
Features
- Shoelaces + zipper
- Extended ankle support
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
Why it's a top pick
Galactic Nichole sneakers are a fun and stylish choice for kids with flat feet. These sneakers have a bright and glittery design with star elements, making them perfect for any outfit.
They offer good arch support and heel cushioning to help with flat feet and reduce foot pain. The shoelaces and zippers also ensure a proper fit, helping to keep your child's feet comfortable and supported.
9
Groovy Stephen Sneakers
Give your little superhero support and comfort
Price
$186 AUD
Type
High-cut sneakers
Price
Leather
Features
- Shoelaces + zipper
- Extended ankle support
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
Why it's a top pick
Groovy Stephen sneakers are a stylish and comfortable choice for kids with flat feet. These high-top sneakers are made with genuine leather and have a cool dark navy base with bright orange laces.
They're perfect for wearing with jeans, a T-shirt, or a tracksuit. The grippy outsoles are shock-absorbent and help protect your child's feet from impact.
The sneakers also have soft padding, antibacterial insoles, and built-in arch support for extra comfort and support. With these flat feet correction shoes, your toddler can play and run around the playground with confidence.
10
Mountain Bray Boots
Keep your little one's feet dry and warm
Price
$192 AUD
Type
Autumn/winter sheepskin boots
Material
Leather + natural wool lining
Features
- Shoelaces + zipper
- Extended ankle support
- High built-in arch support
- Autumn/Winter sole
- Removable insole
- Thomas heel
Why it's a top pick
Mountain Bray boots are a stylish and functional choice for kids of all ages. These boots are made with high-quality leather and wool, and they're perfect for keeping your child's feet warm and dry in the winter.
The boots have laces and a side zipper for easy on and off, and they offer excellent ankle and arch support for kids with flat feet.
The removable insole can be adjusted as your child's feet grow, ensuring a comfortable fit. With these boots, your child can look stylish and feel comfortable all season long.
Essential Features in Orthopaedic Shoes
When choosing shoes for a child with flat feet, it's important to look for specific features that can provide the necessary support and comfort. Here are some key elements to consider:
- Arch Support: The most crucial feature is built-in arch support. This helps to elevate the arch of the foot, reducing pressure on the flat area and promoting proper alignment.
- Cushioning: Adequate cushioning is essential to absorb shock and reduce discomfort, especially during activities that involve running, jumping, or walking on hard surfaces.
- Stability: Look for shoes with a wide base and good stability to prevent ankle rolling and provide a secure platform for the foot.
- Flexibility: The shoe should be flexible enough to allow for natural foot movement, but not so flexible that it lacks support.
- Adjustable Closure: A proper fit is crucial. Adjustable closures like laces or straps allow you to customize the shoe to your child's foot shape and size.
- Durability: Opt for shoes made with high-quality materials that can withstand regular wear and tear, especially if your child is active.
» Discover what to look for in orthopaedic shoes for kids
Happy Feet, Happy Kids
Choosing the right shoes for a child with flat feet is essential for their comfort, development, and overall well-being. By selecting orthopaedic shoes that offer adequate arch support, cushioning, stability, and flexibility, you can help alleviate pain, improve gait, and promote healthy foot development.
With First Walkers, finding the best shoes for kids with flat feet should be a gentle stroll in the park. You can effortlessly provide the comfort and support your child needs while helping to correct this condition.
FAQs
Do flat feet need low or high arch support?
High arch support is generally recommended for flat feet. This helps elevate the arch, reducing pressure on the flat area and promoting proper alignment.
What is the difference between orthotic and orthopaedic shoes?
Orthotics are custom-made inserts designed to address specific foot problems like flat feet. Orthopaedic shoes are typically pre-made shoes with built-in features to support foot health, but they may not be as tailored as orthotics.
Do babies with flat feet learn to walk later?
Not necessarily. While some babies with flat feet may walk a bit later than their peers, it's not always the case. Many children with flat feet develop normal walking patterns. If you're concerned about your baby's development, consult with a pediatrician.
Can kids with flat feet play sports?
Yes, kids with flat feet can definitely play sports. While some may experience discomfort or pain, the right shoes and support can help alleviate these issues. It's important to choose sports-appropriate footwear with adequate arch support and cushioning.
Is walking barefoot good for kids with flat feet?
Walking barefoot can be beneficial for kids with flat feet. It allows the foot muscles to strengthen and develop naturally. But, it's important to balance barefoot walking with wearing supportive shoes, especially on hard surfaces. This can help prevent injuries and provide the necessary support for proper foot development.
Disclaimer: First Walkers' information is intended for educational and informational purposes related to toddler footwear and feet. We encourage you to consider individual circumstances and consult qualified orthopaedists about specific conditions.
