12 Best Shoes For Kids With Flat Feet In 2023

Kids may suffer from pediatric flat feet where the whole foot’s arch may fail to develop or collapse. For such children, the bones tend to be flexible; hence the entire foot’s sole contacts the surface. In most cases, children outgrow this condition by their sixth birthday. Only about 15% don’t recover, which may not require treatment. However, it’s important to consult a pediatrician who may recommend special shoes for kids with flat feet.

There’s no need to worry since this condition is fairly common. If you’re in such a situation, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed while buying a shoe for your child with flat feet. Worry less since we’ve done the groundwork for your selection. Keep reading as we review the best kids’ shoes for flat feet.

Best Shoes For Kids With Flat Feet

Our Top 3 Picks

Best Shoes for Toddler Girls with Flat Feet: Stride Rite Mary Jane

These shoes from Stripe Rite are the best choice for a girl with flat feet. Several features make this product a top selection that will boost the confidence of your child.

The first thing we love about these shoes is that the outsole is extremely lightweight, which allows more flexibility. We are a fan of the collar that features heavy padding, thus ensuring maximum comfort for your child.

Another thing that sets it apart is the premium-grade rubber sole that enhances durability. Also, the rubber outsole offers the best grip so that your child won’t slip even when walking on smooth surfaces such as tiles.

Another thing worth mentioning is the adjustable strap that ensures a perfect fit. The insole has soft memory foam that pampers the little feet and boosts comfort.

Lastly, cleaning is super easy as you can wipe with a soft cloth with water and mild soap.

Pros	Cons
+ Comfortable	– Available in limited colors
+ Lightweight
+ Adjustable strap
+ High-quality rubber sole
+ Easy to clean

Best Shoes for Toddler Boys with Flat Feet: Saucony Baby Shoes

We love the Saucony baby shoe for many reasons. First off, they are reasonably priced and a good choice for parents on a budget. Also, they come in a stylish blue color that will blend with many outfits.

Besides that, the sole is made of durable rubber that will last many days without a tear. In addition, it has high traction, making the shoe a versatile option to wear any day. Additionally, the upper is made of nylon and suede, whereas there is a hook-and-loop closure which allows comfortable fitting.

Since the shaft measurement is low-top from the arch, it will help fix the flat feet condition in children. Impressively, these are lightweight and have an Eva midsole which boosts comfort. And the toe box is spacious enough to allow the toes to wiggle.

Pros	Cons
+ Durable pair of sneakers	– The nylon upper can cause the feet to sweat
+ Versatile shoe for different surfaces
+ Comfortable to wear
+ Lightweight design
+ Roomy interior

Toddler Shoes for Flat Feet

Rated Highly by Parents and Experts

Tsukihoshi Shoes

A child with flat feet requires perfectly fitting shoes to prevent bad posture and foot deformation. For this reason, we recommend the Tsukihoshi shoe, which has good arch and heel support necessary for a child with flat feet.

Made for a child’s delicate feet, the shoe supports your child’s natural foot alignment by offering stability while walking or running.

Easy to clean, the shoes are machine washable, and thus you can toss them into your washing machine for a quick clean-up. Moreover, they come with high-quality rubber outsole. Therefore, you get good value for your hard-earned money.

While testing, we also liked how lightweight, soft, and comfy these shoes are. Little feet sweat a lot, and luckily the shoes have an antibacterial insole that allows maximum airflow. Hence your child’s feet will stay fresh with no bad odors.

Pros

• Snug fit
• Easy to clean
• Lightweight and comfortable
• High quality with a durable rubber sole

Cons

• They are a little pricey.

Asics Shoes

Asics is a world-renowned brand synonymous with high-quality sneakers for all ages. Despite the high price tag, it’s no secret that their children’s collection is among the best and a great choice for many parents.

If your child suffers from flat feet, this pair from Asics is an excellent choice, thanks to the rear foot-gel technology that offers a perfect cushion, protecting the foot from shock. The mesh upper is responsible for air circulation around the child’s foot. Likewise, the sole is made of synthetic material that is durable and offers the best traction in different outdoor terrains.

You will find them suitable for a range of activities such as running and walking. Cleaning is easy as you can wipe off the dirt with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Overall, Asics has the type of shoes you’ll need for your child, as they offer the best stability, support, and comfort.

Pros

• Wide toe box
• Easy to clean
• Comfortable shoes
• Good air circulation
• Excellent arch support
• Long-lasting material
• Available in many colors

Cons

• Pricey

Keen Shoes

Keen Shoes have probably the biggest sneaker collection for children of all ages. This well-made pair of Keen Shoes has garnered over 10,000 positive ratings on Amazon. But why has it been a very popular choice among parents?

First of all, the outsole is made of durable rubber, which offers the best grip on different types of surfaces. With a raised arch on the footbed and extra toe protection, you don’t have to worry about the variety of activities your child can engage in, as the shoe is great for fun outdoor activities such as running and jumping. Also, the upper has a polyester webbing which ensures ample air circulation even on a hot sunny day.

Best for everyday wear; the shoes have an adjustable hook-and-loop strap for a great fit. Most parents appreciated that they are easy to clean.

Pros

• Free from PFC
• Reasonably priced
• Washable material
• Available in many colors and sizes
• Great fit thanks to the adjustable hook-and-loop strap

Cons

• The size runs a little small.

If your child has flat feet condition, it’s hard to find shoes that fit well and feel comfortable. You will appreciate the fact that this New Balance running shoe has the right arch support for children with flat feet.

The combination of IMEVA midsole and ABZORB crash pad adds much-needed cushion for the feet. The breathable upper mesh keeps airflow running, so the tender feet stay cool, dry, and odor-free.

Pros

• Available in different color combinations
• Feels comfortable
• Lightweight
• Breathable
• Fits well
• Injection-molded EVA midsole

Cons

• The upper sole lacks durability.

Merrel Shoes

Due to the complexity of kids’ feet, there’s a need to get a supportive and comfortable shoe. This pair of Merrel shoes might come to your rescue.

This pair has a unique design that supports your child’s arch alongside a stable heel counter.

Whether your child wants to run, walk or climb, the shoes are comfortable. Besides, the sole is made of durable synthetic material that will endure various outdoor activities. Even better! They have high traction, allowing hiking in snow or walking through wet paddles without skidding.

Another thing to note is the roomy interior that can accommodate socks. The shoes run pretty large and are a step up for a child with wide feet. These stylish shoes are everyday footwear, and your child will look good in them on any occasion.

Pros

• Stylish
• High quality
• Stable on feet
• Comfortable pair
• Roomy interior
• High traction outsole

Cons

• Limited color options

Other Recommended Toddler Shoes for Flat Feet

Adidas Unisex-Child Duramo Sl Running Shoe

The first thing we like about Adidas shoes is their well-cushioned and supportive design which makes them a great choice for kids with flat feet.

Adidas Unisex-Child Duramo is equipped with a lightweight, flexible rubber outsole that offers extra support and traction. Due to this, they can be worn any day without worrying about the risk of slipping.

According to the brand, the sole is 100% synthetic, yet some users were unhappy with its durability. These comfy shoes are appealing and adapt well to your child’s feet. As you would expect, they cost a little extra than regular shoes.

Pros

• Stylish
• Anti-skid sole
• Comfortable fit
• Suitable heel length

Cons

• Not so durable

Tsukihoshi Shoes

Here comes yet another super collection from the Tsukihoshi brand. The shoe is available in many colors; hence parents will find it convenient to select the right one for their children.

One thing about Tsukihoshi Shoes is that their toe box is wide enough for the best comfort. This pair from Tsukihoshi is the same. Additionally, this shoe has a unique design that imitates barefoot movement, and this boosts your child’s grip as well as balance.

A child with flat feet will have an easy time walking and even playing while wearing this shoe. On the same note, there’s heel support that protects the delicate feet against excessive pronation. With a rubber outsole, you can be assured of the durability and safety of your child, even when walking on wet or slippery surfaces.

The insole consists of a detachable antibacterial material that gets rid of bacteria and keeps the feet smelling fresh. Even better, the shoe is machine washable and easy to maintain cleanliness.

Pros

• Wide toe box
• Durable rubber sole
• Suitable for kids with flat feet
• Antibacterial material for insole
• Machine washable

Cons

• Not so suitable for a child with tiny legs

Are you searching for the best school shoes for kids with flat feet? Check out this Under Armour Kids’ Grade School Sneaker. Under Armour Brand is best known for trendy and well-made shoes; this one is no different.

The solid rubber outsole is the best part of this shoe. The shoe offers better motion control and lasts longer than other toddler shoes on the market. This shoe has an EVA sock liner, which is especially great for those with a flat arch. This is because it provides soft, step-in comfort for flat feet.

The shoe grips the surface well, making it perfect for playful, active kids. The mesh upper is lightweight and highly breathable. Overall, this is an ideal shoe for children who need extra arch support.

Pros

• Solid rubber outsole
• Excellent arch support
• Lightweight upper mesh
• Great value for the money
• Made with durable leather

Cons

• Runs a little smaller than other UA kids’ shoes

Memo-Polo

Memo-polo is a little pricey; however, this is a high-quality brand that will give the best value for the money. Of course, with value comes the assurance that your little one’s needs are catered for regardless of whether she has a flat foot or any deformity. Little kids don’t like shoes and will remove them at the slightest drop of a hat.

Fortunately, this elegant shoe is designed to offer your child’s foot a barefoot experience and is recommended by orthopedics for flat feet therapy. That’s not all. The outsole allows for sensory feedback, which is necessary for foot development. Also, a stable heel structure protects your kid’s feet from shocks.

Best of all, the shoes are endorsed by pediatrics, and this is one more reason to shop with them.

Pros

• Recommend for kids with flat shoes
• Provides a barefoot feeling
• Stylish and comfy
• Stable heel structure
• Durable outsole
• High quality

Cons

• They are expensive.

Parent’s Guide to the Best Shoes for Kids with Flat Feet

Why do Toddlers Need the Right Footwear?

If your toddler has flat feet, it’s probably because an arch hasn’t developed yet. According to Familydoctor, the majority of children’s arches develop between 1-5 years of age. Often, the arch development continues throughout the first 10 years of life.

There are some risk factors for flat feet in toddlers, which include:

• Obesity
• Injury to foot or ankle
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Aging
• Diabetes

Other than the above-stated risks, some other reasons can also contribute to the development of flat feet in toddlers. According to research by the University of Antwerp, footwear in early childhood is one of the many factors that can lead to flat feet issues in children. So you have to be careful while buying shoes for your toddlers. 

Best Brands That Have Orthopedic Shoes for Flat Feet Kids

You might struggle to find companies that design shoes specifically for kids with flat feet. To make it easier, we have listed some of the best brands that make shoes for flat feet. Check them out when looking for flat feet shoes for your kids:

• Stride Rite
• Saucony
• Asics
• Tsukihoshi

How to Choose the Best Kids Shoes for Flat Feet?

It’s clear that choosing the right shoes for flat feet is very crucial. While looking for the best shoes for kids with flat feet, you should consider the following factors.

Support and Stability: Proper arch support is key for the right pair of shoes for kids with flat feet. Toddler shoes with proper arch support will help develop healthy arches for children.

Other than support, you need to find shoes that promote stability and focus on motion control. Shoes that lack stability and flexibility can affect the proper development of the arch. In addition, they can lead to muscle strain, knee stress, and more.

To ensure the right kind of support and flexibility, you need to take a look at the shoe material. This leads us to our second point. 

Materials: Children’s footwear should be made of soft, lightweight materials. Check the outsole and insole of a particular shoe. The right type of outsole ensures durability and protection for the feet. Outsoles also help with balance as well as grip.

The next important aspect is the insole materials. Choose shoes that use ultra-cozy memory foam to support and cushion the feet. Check out our recommended insoles for flat feet toddlers. 

The insole materials should also be breathable with anti-bacterial properties so that air can flow freely and remove nasty odor. Avoid shoes that lack airflow and are uncomfortable.

Style: Finally, the last thing you should consider while choosing the right shoe for a child with flat feet– is design! Most toddler shoes offer different color variants. You should choose a color that matches their outfits. 

Conclusion

From our review, the best kids’ shoes for flat feet should offer your child the best comfort and a near-barefoot experience. The above-reviewed shoes should offer relief to your child so that he can engage in normal activities just like other kids.

Your child doesn’t need any medication, but choosing suitable shoes is an excellent idea. Although these are expensive, they are a worthy investment to ensure maximum comfort for your child. Hopefully, you can now shop for the best kids’ shoes for flat feet with confidence.