The Perfect Fit: Shoe Choices for Orthotics
Gentry Lewis, PT, DPT
If your child has ever worn a pair of orthotics, you KNOW the struggle of finding a good pair of shoes that fits well! Fitting orthotics, commonly referred to as “braces,” into a small opening at the top of a pair of shoes is a serious workout for parents and their kiddos. There are multiple components to look at when assessing a pair of shoes for a child wearing orthotics. This post is meant to help find a good pair of shoes for your child who is new to orthotics or ensure that your child’s shoes are fitting well over their existing pair.
What should we look for?
First, let’s take a look at some things to look for when choosing a shoe.
- Width: In order to fit comfortably and correctly, orthotics will be wider than your child’s feet. As a result, you will need to find a wider shoe to accommodate the orthotics. Multiple brands offer infant, toddler, and kids shoes in wide and extra wide options. Hint: an orthotist recommended trying the extra wide option!
- Height: Regular height tennis shoes or high top tennis shoes both work, but high top shoes will provide added stability for the ankle on top of the orthotic. In addition, when your child is not wearing their orthotics, the high top option will provide extra support that may help their walking pattern or reduce their risk of falling down.
- Sole: Shoes accommodating an orthotic should have a supportive sole that does not bend easily. If you are able to bend the sole of the shoe, as shown in the picture below, I would recommend searching for a more supportive option.
- Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO): Orthotists recommend sizing up one size from their regular size to accommodate for the added length of the AFOs. For reference, an example of an AFO is included below.
- Supra-Malleolar Orthosis (SMO): If your child already has a pair of shoes with some room for growth, their shoe may accommodate the added length of an SMO. If those don’t work, try going up one size. For reference, an example of an SMO is included below.
- These are very general guidelines, so if you are worried about sizing and don’t want the hassle of returning shoes that don’t work, I would recommend waiting until you receive your child’s orthotics and then going to try on shoes in the store.
Sizing:
Pictured Left: Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO)
Pictured Right: Supra-Malleolar Orthosis (SMO)
Shoe Options
New Balance: Multiple options available in wide or extra wide. They also offer many velcro strap options to easily increase the width of the opening. Linked below is an example of a good option for both kids and toddlers:
- Kids: 680v6 Bungee
- Toddlers: 680v6 Bungee
Hatchback Footwear: Adaptive Shoes for Kids
Billy’s Shoes: Shoes easily adapted to orthotics with a zipper that travels around the outside of the foot and towards the big toe.
Zappos: If shopping for tennis shoes that are not classified as adaptive footwear, Zappos offers measurement charts. An orthotist recommends measuring your child’s foot with the orthotics on if you already have them in your possession.
Zappos Adaptive: Zappos Adaptive has a variety of orthotic friendly shoe options, especially if your kiddo is looking to add some variety to their wardrobe.
A Final Note
If you ever have any questions about how your child’s shoes are fitting or want a second opinion, feel free to bring multiple pairs of shoes to therapy. Your physical therapist would love to discuss shoe options and provide you with some peace of mind. As always, feel free to call Hogg Therapy at (859) 353-3666 with questions or concerns!
Berea Location
Berea, KY 40403
Tel:
(859) 353-3666
Fax: (859) 448-7077
Richmond Location
Richmond KY 40475
Tel:
(859) 353-3666
Fax: (859) 448-7077
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