10 Best Kids' Shoes for Tippy-Toe Walkers: Walk With Ease
Empower your child's foot health: Choose orthopaedic shoes with superior arch support and ankle stability to correct toe-walking and flat feet
Updated December 3, 2024.
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, persistent toe walking can put unnecessary strain on the knees, hips, and lower back, leading to injuries and joint pain later in life. Luckily, early intervention, including proper footwear, can help correct this habit.
Our Pick: Best Kid's Shoes For Tippy-Toe Walkers
- Best overall shoes for tippy-toe walkers: Galactic Nichole Sneakers
- Best boys' sandals for tippy-toe walkers: Captain Caleb High-Tops
- Best girls' sneakers for tippy-toe walkers: Blushful Betty High-Tops
- Best boots for tippy-toe walkers: Rocky Rick Boots
- Best winter shoes for tippy-toe walkers: Ronn Gratty Sneakers
- Best girls' boots for tippy-toe walkers: Pearly Sheila Silver Boots
- Best unisex sneakers for tippy-toe walkers: Benji the Scout Sneakers
- Best boys' Velcro boots for tippy-toe walkers: Velvet Logan Velcro Boots
- Best girls' sandals for tippy-toe walkers: Precious Mia Ankle Sandals
- Best trendy sneakers for tippy-toe walkers: Billy Smooth Sneakers
Is Toe Walking In Kids Normal?
Most children naturally go through a phase of toe walking as they develop their walking skills. This behavior is typically harmless and usually resolves on its own by the time a child reaches two years of age. But, persistent toe walking after this point may indicate:
- A short Achilles tendon
- Cerebral palsy and other neurological disorders
- Muscular dystrophy
- Autism
If you have any concerns about your child's development, don't hesitate to seek professional advice.
How Can Shoes Help with Toe Walking?
Specialised shoes can play a crucial role in addressing toe walking by providing structural support and encouraging proper foot placement, Here's what to look for:
- Supportive Heel Counter: A firm heel cup in orthopaedic shoes physically guides the child's heel down and prevents the raised toe-walking position.
- Structured Design: High-top shoes create a mechanical barrier that makes it more challenging for children to maintain a constant tip-toe stance.
- Strategic Orthotics: Built-in arch supports and custom inserts gently stretch tight Achilles tendons and calf muscles.
- Sensory Feedback: Specially designed footwear provides neurological cues that help retrain a child's walking mechanics and improve overall balance.
- Flexibility: Lightweight shoes with strategic ankle support help kids feel more confident while switching to a normal walking technique.
Luckily, 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.
1. Best Overall Shoes for Tippy-Toe Walkers: Galactic Nichole Sneakers
Navy stars supportive high-cut sneakers
Who doesn't want to reach for the stars? ✨
Galactic Nichole sneakers, featuring bright and glistening star elements with a touch of sparkles, are designed to make any clothing ensemble possible, seamlessly blending fashion and support for little feet.
Material:
Leather
Type:
High-cut sneakers
Price:
$186 AUD
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 stabilise the ankle and foot, encourage proper walking mechanics and heel striking, and reduce the tendency for tippy-toe walking.
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.
2. Best Boys' Sandals for Tippy-Toe Walkers: Captain Caleb High-Tops
Orthopaedic high-top ankle sandals
Shout “All Aboard!” with Captain Caleb’s high-top shoes! ⚓️
Featuring a higher-cut design and three hook-and-loop Velcro straps for a seamless fit and extra ankle support, these sandals double the confidence of beginner walkers, especially those with wobbly feet or toe-walking tendencies.
Material:
Nubuck leather
Type:
High-top sandals
Price:
$178 AUD
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.
3. Best Girls' Sneakers for Tippy-Toe Walkers: Blushful Betty High-Tops
Supportive high-cut sneakers
Step into style with Blushful Betty! 💖
These sneakers are toe-tally perfect for tippy-toe walkers, offering stellar ankle support. Let your little one stride with confidence and fun, thanks to these blush-worthy kicks!
Material:
Leather
Type:
High-top sneakers
Price:
$186 AUD
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.
4. Best Boots For Tippy-Toe Walkers: Rocky Rick Boots
Navy orthopaedic high-top boots
Meet Rocky Rick, the toe-tally rad boots for little adventurers! 🪨
These orthopaedic high-tops offer stellar ankle support and shock-absorbent soles, perfect for those who love to tiptoe through their day. Give your kid a rock-solid foundation for every step!
Material:
Nubuck leather
Type:
Boots
Price:
$186 AUD
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 one's adventurous spirit will adore these supportive and stylish boots, designed for comfortable, confident strides!
5. Best Winter Shoes For Tippy-Toe Walkers: Ronn Gratty Sneakers
High-top sheepskin sneakers
Step up in style with Ronn Gratty! 🐑
These high-top sheepskin sneakers give tippy-toe walkers the wool they need. With ankle support and Velcro magic, every step is a sheep-er delight!
Material:
Nubuck leather + natural wool lining
Type:
Autumn/Winter sheepskin high-top sneakers
Price:
$192 AUD
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, 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.
6. Best Girls' Boots for Tippy-Toe Walkers: Pearly Sheila Silver Boots
Silver orthopaedic high-top boots
Step into shimmer with Pearly Sheila! 🐚
These silver stunners support little feet with style, perfect for tippy-toe walkers. Secure laces and a zipper make them toe-tally fabulous for every tiny step!
Material:
Leather
Type:
Boots
Price:
$186 AUD
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.
7. Best Unisex Sneakers for Tippy-Toe Walkers: Benji the Scout Sneakers
Supportive high-cut sneakers
Scout out adventures with Benji! 🐊
These high-cut sneakers provide stellar support for little explorers, making tippy-toe walking a breeze. With secure straps and cosy insoles, every step is a new discovery!
Material:
Nubuck leather
Type:
High-top sneakers
Price:
$186 AUD
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. 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.
8. Best Boys' Velcro Boots for Tippy-Toe Walkers: Velvet Logan Velcro Boots
Navy orthopaedic high-top boots
Stride in style with Velvet Logan! 🦕
These navy high-tops are perfect for tippy-toe walkers, offering snug support and cushy soles. Every step is a plushy adventure with these orthopaedic beauties!
Material:
Nubuck leather
Type:
Boots
Price:
$186 AUD
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.
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.
9. Best Girls' Sandals for Tippy-Toe Walkers: Precious Mia Ankle Sandals
Orthopaedic high-top ankle sandals
Mia's here to make steps precious! 👒
These high-top sandals hug little ankles with support, perfect for tippy-toe walkers. With Velcro straps and cushy soles, every step is a delightful dance!
Material:
Leather
Type:
High-top sandals
Price:
$178 AUD
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.
10. Best Trendy Sneakers for Tippy-Toe Walkers: Billy Smooth Sneakers
Supportive high-cut sneakers
Smooth moves with Billy! 🪶
These high-cut sneakers are perfect for tippy-toe walkers, offering stellar support and comfy strides. With snug fits and cushy insoles, every step is a smooth sail!
Material:
Nubuck leather
Type:
High-top sneakers
Price:
$186 AUD
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.
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.
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.
FAQs
How do I prevent my kid from toe walking?
You can prevent toe walking through physical therapy, stretching exercises, bracing with ankle-foot orthoses (AFO), serial casting, and, if necessary, surgical intervention for tight tendons.
Is toe walking ADHD or autism?
Toe walking can be associated with both ADHD and autism, but it doesn't definitively indicate either condition. Children with ADHD may continue toe walking longer, while persistent toe walking in conjunction with language delays may signal autism. Consult your pediatrician for more information.
At what age is tip toe walking a concern?
Toe walking becomes a concern if it persists beyond age 2. Continued toe walking after age 3 may indicate underlying conditions and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional for appropriate intervention.
What happens if toe walking goes untreated?
Untreated toe walking can lead to delayed motor development, increased muscle tightness, poor balance, pain in the feet and legs, and potential social or psychological difficulties due to teasing or peer interactions.
Does swimming help with toe walking?
Swimming can help with toe walking by promoting muscle relaxation, improving strength, and enhancing coordination. The buoyancy of water allows for gentle movement, reducing strain on joints while encouraging proper foot positioning through specific exercises.
Is there a special test for toe walking?
1. Tip Toe Standing Test
This test assesses the flexibility of the foot and can help identify any restrictions in ankle movement. The child is asked to stand on their tiptoes, and the clinician observes their ability to maintain balance and the range of motion.
2. Silfverskiöld Test
This evaluation measures ankle mobility in different knee positions. By assessing the child's ability to dorsiflex (bend upwards) their foot while standing, it helps determine if tight calf muscles are contributing to toe walking.
3. Physical and Neurological Exams
These exams involve observing the child's walking patterns, assessing muscle tightness, and evaluating overall physical development. A healthcare professional may check for any neurological conditions that could be influencing the toe walking behavior.
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.
