These eight carefully selected AFO shoes for toddlers are stylish and fit both AFOs or SMOs comfortably.
Most importantly, the shoe is roomy enough for the foot orthotic device to work properly to control foot instabilities.
Atena Orthopedic Corrective AFO Sandal
Shoe Brand: Memo
For Ages: 1 to 7 years
Best For: Maximum support with extra shoe breathability
Why It’s So Good
First off, this shoe differs from the others because of the extra depth of support inside the shoe.
The material boasts extra comfort.
You have one color option…pink with a sweet heart design on the velcro straps.
Key Features
- AFO brace-compatible sandal
- Open design to prevent and correct common foot issues
- Comfy high-top ankle support
Final Verdict
A precious shoe that dresses to impress.
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Dino First Walking Orthopedic Leather Sandal
Shoe Brand: Memo
For Ages: 1 to 3 years
Best For: The youngest kiddo training to walk
Why It’s So Good
This shoe is designed as a baby or toddler’s first shoe.
It offers excellent stabilization on the heel during the first steps taken.
Plus, the shoe is designed to prevent any potential foot defects.
Key Features
- Lightweight
- Prevention shoe
- Made of natural leather
- Comfy foam padding around the ankle
- Adjustable straps to fit different feet widths
- Stiff heel for proper support and foot protection
Final Verdict
The go-to shoe for young ones wearing SMO or AFO braces at an early age.
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ikiki Squeaky Shoes for Toddlers (with On/Off squeaker switch)
Shoe Brand: ikki
For Ages: 1 to 7 years
Best For: Encouraging heel-to-toe walking in the youngest kiddo
Why It’s So Good
The adorable animal print designs make kids want to wear this shoe.
It’s a fun walking shoe to engage your kid with the built-in squeaker.
The squeaks encourage heel-to-toe walking.
Key Features
- Over 18 precious animal designs to choose from!
- On/Off squeaker button
- Breathable material
- Single strap to help fit wide or narrow feet
- The squeak helps keep track of your kiddo
- Lightweight
Final Verdict
One of the best interactive SMO or AFO shoes for toddlers to boost confidence in training to walk.
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Memo Agnes Corrective Orthopedic AFO Leather Sandal
Shoe Brand: Memo
For Ages: 1 to 7 years
Best For: Ankle support to wear during warm weather indoors or outdoors
Why It’s So Good
The “unicorn” craze is a popular trend today and your color options reflect this ongoing trend.
Since the shoe is made out of 100% leather it provides a flexible fit around the foot.
The open design and adjustable strap length allow the shoe to fit different feet widths well.
Key Features
- Easy to wear
- Lightweight
- Durable rubber sole
- Correction inserts included providing postural support
- Made for Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels I and II
Final Verdict
For the unicorn fan or for those who love cute designs (like glitter and flowers), these shoes are an adorable option.
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Michael Corrective Orthopedic AFO Leather Sandal
Shoe Brand: Memo
For Ages: 1 to 7 years
Best For: Ankle support to wear during warm weather indoors or outdoors
Why It’s So Good
Do you need sandals for your little angel?
This high-top AFO-compatible sandal provides maximum support throughout wear and use.
The sandal design is an excellent footwear solution for club foot, flat feet, toe walking, and pronation.
Key Features
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Flexible rubber outsole
- Adjustable hook and loop strap length to fit various feet sizes
- Perfect for Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels I and II
Final Verdict
If you need a supportive high-top sandal that’s trendy, this one is for you.
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Polo Corrective Orthopedic Sneaker
Shoe Brand: Memo
For Ages: 1 to 7 years
Best For: Maximum comfort with a stylish flair
Why It’s So Good
This kid’s ankle support sneaker is a corrective orthopedic sneaker.
It keeps the SMO or AFO braces clean while providing maximum support.
The shoe is made out of 100% leather to prevent discomfort and skin irritation.
Key Features
- Stabilizes the foot
- Inserts included alleviating foot complaints
- Provides proper positioning during walking
- Lightweight
- Shock absorbent rubber sole
Final Verdict
This shoe provides maximum comfort while giving you a stylish look.
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Reebok Unisex-Child Flexagon Energy Cross Trainer Shoes
Shoe Brand: Reebok
For Ages: 4 to 8 years
Best For: Wide fit with maximum breathability
Why It’s So Good
This budget-friendly shoe screams comfort.
The mesh material and foam cushioning make this a cozy shoe to wear.
Plus, the adjustable strap allows you to easily widen the shoe to fit AFOs or SMOs.
Key Features
- Adjustable strap with lace closure
- Lightweight
- Rubber sole
- High quality
- Sporty
Final Verdict
Great for high-energy kids who need a wide-fitting shoe that is comfy and sporty.
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Reebok Unisex-Child Royal Classic Jogger
Shoe Brand: Reebok
For Ages: 1 to 8 years
Best For: Early walkers who need an easy shoe to get on or off
Why It’s So Good
Kids fall in love with this super comfy shoe.
Simply adjust the width with the thick strap to fit over the AFO or SMO brace comfortably.
Key Features
- Variety of adorable colors and shoe options
- Adjustable strap to fit the width of different foot sizes
- Durable rubber sole
- Easy to put on and take off
- Gentle material (synthetic leather)
- Lightweight
Final Verdict
For first-time walkers who need a flexible-fitting shoe that’s comfy and cute.
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The ‘Memo’ Shoe Brand
Now that we have covered several of the top-fitting shoes for kids to wear to fit their AFOs and SMOs comfortably, you may have noticed the ‘Memo’ brand pop up on several of the shoe options listed above.
This shoe brand is designed specifically for kids who wear a foot orthotic device.
Here is why ‘Memo’ shoes are important.
Why ‘Memo’ Shoes Are So Good
There is a diagnostic functional sole that acts as a monitoring system.
The sole helps to prevent and treat the most common postural defects like flat feet, crooked toes, or hollow feet.
In simple terms, the unique diagnostic design is like an “alert” button.
It’s recommended to check the sole of the shoe after 14 days of use and wear.
Why It’s Important…
- You have the opportunity to assess the foot condition
- Allows you to see if the shoe fits properly
For instance, if there is an abrasion on the sole further intervention may be needed or you may need a different shoe size.
How To Find The Right Shoe Size
It’s super easy and quick to do!
Have your child stand up on a blank white piece of paper with both feet. Outline your child’s feet with a pencil or washable marker. Then, simply measure from the heel to the toe length.
Voila! Choose your size in the chart below.
This method should work for different shoe brands like Reebok, just look at the foot chart provided by the manufacturer.
Common Questions and Answers
Why should you find shoes to fit AFO or SMO braces?
You need great-fitting shoes to enhance mobility and prevent or treat contractures.
Even though removable footbeds provide more depth, the right shoes come with tri-support inside and a steel shank to improve stability and comfort.
Keep in mind, that kids’ shoes compatible with AFO or SMO braces come in the right range and width.
Why do you wear AFO or SMO braces?
Wearing AFOs (and keeping them on) is found to increase walking speed and reduce the energy cost in kids with mobility challenges.
Who is the company that makes the brand “Memo”?
Memo is one of the highest quality European footwear companies that make children’s shoes for AFO and SMO braces.
They use natural materials like soft grain and nubuck leather for maximum flexibility and comfort.
What’s the difference between SMO and AFO braces?
SMO (Supra Malleolar Orthotics) is a smaller brace to stabilize the ankle while supporting the arch of the foot.
AFO (Ankle Foot Orthotics) is a brace to hold the foot and ankle in the right position.
Thank You!
We want to wrap up by extending our gratitude to thank you for stopping by today!
What other SMO or AFO shoes do you recommend?
Let us know in the comments below. ♥
Was this information helpful to you? If so, you’d make our day by sharing it! 🙂
About the Author
Lindsey is the co-founder of The LENN Foundation and content creator of the Intensive Therapy for Kids blog.
When she isn’t busy playing Godzilla with her son or chasing around her mischievous Rottweiler pup, she loves creating experiences and memories with her loved ones (traveling, watching a good flick, trying new n’ yummy restaurants). Speaking of restaurants, one of her favs is Taco Bell!
Most of all, she is grateful for her supportive circle of family, friends, and to live out her passion for helping kids with Cerebral Palsy (like her sweet nephew Lenny).
If you’re curious about The LENN Foundation, you may see the kids’ helped and feel-good content here. ♥
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The contents of the Intensive Therapy for Kids Site, such as text, graphics, images, and other material contained on the Intensive Therapy for Kids Site (“Content”) are for informational purposes only. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Fine way of describing, and good post to get data about my presentation topic,
which i am going to present in university.
Thanks for sharing!
Hi Lindsey,
These shoes are all super cute! I love all of the options here, and I like how they are all lightweight which is important for toddlers. The shoe with the squeakers is a nice touch, not only are they fun but they encourage proper heel-to-toe walking. Finding shoes that fit AFO braces is sometimes a challenge, especially ones that are stylish. You have listed some really great options here, and the sizing chart is very helpful.
Thanks for sharing,
Jenny.
Thanks for sharing Jenny!
Thanks for the information! My friends is keep looking for this kind of shoes for a long time. I will give this information to them.
These AFO shoes really offer a strong support to kids ankle. The colors of the shoes seem attractive for kids.
And you give me the shoe size chart, this make it easy to choose a suitable size for shoe. Kids feet grow fast ,you know.
Thanks again!
Thanks for taking the time to share your feedback! Definitely appreciate that. 🙂