Pediatric Shoe Recommendations
Liz Bakken, DPT
As soon as children start to walk, it is important to think about the type of shoes placed on
their feet to better support their stability and development. Below are general shoe
recommendations for children at diAerent ages and stages. If you have any specific
questions or would like specific recommendations for your child, please reach out to your
child’s physical therapist.
First Walkers:
As children are first learning to walk, barefoot is best. Being barefoot helps
children strengthen muscles in their feet and ankles, supporting the development of the
arches of a child’s feet and increasing stability. Additionally, being barefoot increases a
child’s sensory input and proprioception with navigating their surroundings. Although
barefoot is best, there are situations including walking outdoors or in various climates
where having shoes on is appropriate.
• Pick shoes that are lightweight with a flexible heel cup and rubber soles for traction
• Pick shoes with a wide toe box for increased stability and to support natural foot
development
• Hand-me-down shoes are okay, especially for early shoes. Look at the wear pattern
in the shoes and ensure there is not too much breakdown.
Recommended First Walker Shoes:
https://seekairun.com/first-walker/
https://tenlittle.com/collections/first-walkers
Toddler Shoes:
With further development of the bones and muscles in a child’s foot from
weight bearing as a first walker, they are able to progress to shoes with more support.
• Pick shoes that are light weight, with a sturdy heel cup, and rubber soles for traction
• Pick shoes with a wide toe box for increased stability and to support natural foot
development
Recommended Toddler Shoes:
https://seekairun.com/all/toddler-preschool/
https://tenlittle.com/collections/everyday-original
Other Shoe Recommendations (Ages 5+):
By this time, the arches in a child’s feet should
be fully developed. Arch support through shoe inserts or orthotics may be recommended
for children with flat feet and can be discussed further with a PT or orthotist. Shoe
recommendations for school-aged children can be specific to the activity the child is
participating in.
Focus on shoes that provide support with proper lower extremity alignment
2. Pick shoes that provide protection with shock absorption
3. Pick shoes specific to the activity the child is participating in
Recommended Shoes:
https://www.asics.com/us/en-us/kids/c/aa30000000/
Shoe Recommendations with Orthotics:
Find shoes that are easy to get on and off while orthotics are worn
https://billyfootwear.com/collections/all-
shoes?https://billyfootwear.com/&gclid=Cj0KCQiAiJSeBhCCARIsAHnAzT_xPQntm9AxUFq
