Explore the best shoes for flat feet kids, prioritising comfort and support with our 10 podiatrist-recommended orthopaedic shoes for children.
By Benjamin Aduwo
Edited by Davor Štefanović
Updated December 7, 2023.
Every step your child takes shapes their journey through childhood, and it all starts with their feet. When a child has flat feet, the longitudinal arch flattens, making the whole sole touch the floor. While it is normal for toddlers to have what's known as flexible flatfoot, the arch typically appears from age three and above. However, this arch does not form in some cases, leading to true flat feet.
Flat feet can lead to back, hip, knee, and ankle pain due to joint malalignment, gait abnormalities, and swelling, potentially resulting in early arthritis. The good news is that kids can have these issues corrected or significantly alleviated with the right shoes for flat feet. In this article, we've reviewed the following ten best orthopaedic shoes to help improve the development of your child's flat feet.
» Discover why orthopaedic shoes are a game changer for kids
10 Best Shoes for Kids with Flat Feet
- Best orthopaedic shoes for girls - Blooming Dahlia sneakers
- Best high-top orthopaedic kids' sneakers - Ashley Mizar high-tops
- Best high-top orthopaedic boots for boys - Smooth Owen boots
- Best floral orthopaedic sandals for girls - Niña Florets sandals
- Best printed orthopaedic boys' sandals - Nigel the Harbor Boss
- Best smart orthopaedic sandals for your kid - Riley Rower sandals
- Best high-top orthopaedic boots for girls - Diamond Marilyn boots
- Best unisex orthopaedic kids sneakers - Galactic Nichole sneakers
- Best high-top orthopaedic boys' sneakers - Groovy Stephen
- Best sheepskin orthopaedic boots for kids - Mountain Bray boots
What Experts Recommend for Kids With Flat Feet
The London Podiatry Centre (LPC) 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
Best orthopaedic sneakers for girls
1
Blooming Dahlia Sneakers
Complement everyday looks with an elegant touch
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Material
Leather
Type
High-top sneakers
Price
$178
Features
- Two adjustable Velcro straps
- Extended ankle support
- Anti-scratch/scuffs toe cap protector
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
Short description
Blooming Dahlia combines style and exceptional comfort. These orthopaedic sneakers feature a stylish design, soft colours with metallic finishes, and a hint of glitter for a glamorous touch.
With thoughtful design elements, these shoes are destined to become your girl's favourite.
Why we chose it
Blooming Dahlia Sneakers are an excellent choice for stylish girls with flat feet. These sneakers offer built-in high arch support, reducing foot pain and eliminating the need for an extra insole.
They provide firm ankle support and toe cap cushioning to prevent injuries, and the shock-absorbing outsoles protect your child's toes during high-impact activities.
Best high-top orthopaedic kids' sneakers
2
Ashley Mizar Sneakers
Enhanced comfort and reduced impact on the feet
Buy Now
Material
Leather
Type
High-top sneakers
Price
$186
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
Short description
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!
Why we chose it
Ashley Mizar high-top sneakers are ideal for kids with flat feet. With extended ankle support and a dense heel counter, they provide stability for your toddler. They're orthotics-friendly, accommodating AFOs/SMOs.
The removable insole and anti-bacterial insoles ensure hygiene. Plus, their shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles minimize discomfort, making them one of the best kids' shoes with arch support.
Best high-top orthopaedic boots for boys
3
Smooth Owen Boots
Easy to put on and take off
Buy Now
Material
Nubuck leather
Type
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
Short description
Introducing Smooth Owen boots, designed to focus on children's comfort and foot health. They provide exceptional cushioning and support for your child's ankles, making them the best shoes for kids with flat feet. Easy to slip on and off but also ideal for use with orthotics if needed.
Say goodbye to worries about cleaning, as these boots are simple to maintain. Above all, they are easy to adore, ensuring your child's flat feet receive the care they deserve.
Why we chose it
Smooth Owen Boots are a perfect choice for boys with flat feet. The high arch design restores the foot arch, providing balance and stability. These boots also have shock-absorbent soles, reducing the impact on the feet. The boots offer adequate heel and ankle support, maintaining the structural integrity of ankle joints and preventing early arthritis development.
Best floral orthopaedic sandals for girls
4
Niña Florets Sandals
A vintage classic with a hint of sass
Buy Now
Material
Leather
Type
High-top sandals
Price
$166
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
Short description
Dress her up in all-white shoes nostalgia. Niña Florets Sandals, a vintage classic with a hint of sass featuring flowerets and dotted accents in hot pink, are perfect for first walkers with health-conscious feet. These shoes provide both fashion and function. The multi-layer soles cushion and hug little feet into stability, making them confident to walk, climb, and jump.
Why we chose it
Niña Florets Sandals, designed with comfort and style in mind, feature three adjustable straps for a proper fit, ensuring balance and stability for your baby girl. These high-arch sandals are perfect for kids with flat feet, reducing foot pain and promoting healthy foot development. The added air valves and antibacterial insoles provide extra protection against infections.
Best printed orthopaedic boys' sandals
5
Nigel The Harbor Boss Sandals
Proof that specialty footwear could look great
Buy Now
Material
Leather
Type
High-top sandals
Price
$172
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
Short description
These boys' high-top orthopaedic sandals prove that specialty footwear can also look stylish while providing excellent support as shoes for flat feet.
Why we chose it
He loves ships, he loves the ocean, but most of all, he loves adventures! Nigel The Harbor Boss Sandals are perfect for adventurous boys with flat feet. The built-in high arch and shock-absorbing ability provide relief from flat feet-associated pain.
These sandals offer adequate heel cushioning, sole support, and extended ankle support for proper alignment. Now, your boy can enjoy his adventures without limitations!
Best smart orthopaedic sandals for your kid
6
Riley Rower Sandals
A comfortable fit in any situation
Buy Now
Material
Nubuck leather
Price
$158
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
Short description
These slick sandals in blue and red colours are ideal for kids with flat feet, ensuring an intelligent look no matter what you pair them with. Riley Rower Sandals provide a comfortable fit in any situation.
Why we chose it
Riley Rower Sandals provide the necessary heel cushioning, arch support, and proper fit for children with flat feet. The adjustable closure ensures the ankle's natural alignment, offering all-day comfort and support.
With these sandals, your little one can stay in school all day without experiencing discomfort.
Best high-top orthopaedic boots for girls
7
Diamond Marilyn Boots
Sparkle in the sun like a thousand diamonds
Buy Now
Material
Leather
Type
Boots
Price
$172
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
Short description
These gorgeous glowing shoes for kids with flat feet offer unparalleled style and comfort. They feature an elegant design with velvet black laces, making them a memorable choice.
Diamond Marilyn is undoubtedly a little fashionista's favourite choice, ensuring she'll be the centre of attention wherever she goes.
Why we chose it
Diamond Marilyn boots provide much-needed support for little girls with flat feet. The built-in high arch support helps reduce foot pain, while the removable insole allows for adjustments as your child's flat feet improve.
These boots feature shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles, making them perfect for dancing competitions, as they minimize the impact on your child's feet.
Best unisex orthopaedic kids sneakers
8
Galactic Nichole Sneakers
Who doesn't want to reach for the stars
Buy Now
Material
Leather
Type
High-cut sneakers
Price
$172
Features
- Shoelaces + zipper
- Extended ankle support
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
Short description
Who doesn't want to reach for the stars? Now, you can show off Galactic Nichole, featuring bright and glistening star elements with a touch of sparkles.
These are some of the best shoes for kids with flat feet, designed to make any clothing ensemble emerge, blending fashion and support for little feet seamlessly.
Why we chose it
Galactic Nichole sneakers offer adequate arch support and heel cushioning for kids with flat feet. The shoelaces and zippers ensure a proper fit, maintaining the correct ankle joint position and preventing foot pain and abnormal gait. These sneakers are a fashionable and comfortable choice for your little one.
Best high-top orthopaedic boys' sneakers
9
Groovy Stephen Sneakers
Give your little superhero support and comfort
Buy Now
Material
Leather
Type
High-cut sneakers
Price
$172
Features
- Shoelaces + zipper
- Extended ankle support
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
Short description
These sneakers are a perfect choice for kids with flat feet, offering the support and comfort they need to walk and run around the playground. The bright orange laces add a certain edge to the dark navy base. These colours look lovely with a tracksuit, jeans, and a cool tee.
Why we chose it
Groovy Stephen sneakers are genuine leather, high-top designer shoes that are perfect for playground fun. They feature grippy shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles to minimize pain from high impacts.
These shoes also provide all-around padding for extra comfort, antibacterial insoles, and high built-in arch support, making them an excellent choice for children with flat feet.
Best sheepskin orthopaedic boots for kids
10
Mountain Bray Boots
Keep your little one's feet dry and warm
Buy Now
Material
Leather + Natural wool lining
Type
Autumn/Winter sheepskin boots
Price
$148
Features
- Shoelaces + zipper
- Extended ankle support
- High built-in arch support
- Autumn/Winter sole
- Removable insole
- Thomas heel
Short description
It is simply impossible to take your eyes off the Mountain Bray boots. These boots embody stunning style, design, functionality, and rich colour all in one. They are unisex and will suit both boys and girls.
While the laces will allow you to fix the feet in a required position, the side zipper will make it much easier for a little one to put shoes on and take them off.
Why we chose it
Made from genuine leather and natural wool lining, Mountain Bray Boots keep your child's feet dry and warm throughout winter.
Extended ankle support helps kids with unstable ankles due to flat feet, while impeccable arch support reduces foot pain and enhances natural foot curvature. The replaceable insole allows for adjustments as your child's flat feet improve.
Happy Feet, Happy Kids
Ensuring your child's feet have proper support is vital for maintaining balance and good posture, and preventing spinal problems. 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.
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