School Shoes for Kids with Flat Feet

It can be challenging to find cute school shoes which are suitable for kids with flat feet. We often find that little ones with flat feet have to settle for discomfort when it comes to school shoes. 

This is something that just won’t do; every child deserves to feel comfortable physically and internally with their footwear on a daily basis, which is why Lelli Kelly offers school shoes for all different kinds of feet, including flat feet! 

How flat feet affect children

Flat feet in children are far more common than you might expect, and in most cases, they don’t cause too many issues. However, it is possible that flat feet can lead to pain, discomfort and even difficulty working. This can inhibit the healthy development of little feet, which is why it’s vital to find a pair of school shoes that are well suited to flat feet. 

If your child is complaining about persistent foot pain, or difficult walking/balancing as a result of flat feet, we’d recommend seeking the advice of a healthcare professional. 

What are the best types of school shoes for kids with flat feet?

The best types of school shoes for kids with flat feet are ones which have firm heel counters, and provide plenty of support:

• Arch support - Crucial to help distribute pressure evenly across the foot. 
  
  
• Firm heel counter - The stiffer part at the back of a shoe is called the ‘heel counter.’ A firm one helps stabilise your heel and prevents ankles rolling inward (common with flat feet). 
  
  
• Flat(ish) soles - Whilst they don’t need to be completely flat, kids with flat feet need school shoes that have relatively flat soles, as this promotes more natural foot posture. 
  
  
• Flexible forefoot - Allows for natural movement when little ones are walking and running around. 

These are just a few features we’d recommend looking for in school shoes for kids with flat feet. Of course, not all school shoes are going to have all of these features, and it’s also important to ask your child what style they feel most comfortable in. 

Find out about our new season school shoes.

What can you do to make school shoes more comfortable for flat-footed children?

The first thing you should do to make school shoes more comfortable for flat-footed children is ensure a proper fit. Obviously, it’s important for all children to have properly fitted shoes, but this is even more important with flat feet. Have a go at measuring your child’s feet, and keep size guides in mind when you buy.

Another thing to try is adding support with insoles, often referred to as ‘orthotic insoles’. These provide additional support to fallen arches to reduce pressure and discomfort. These can be made by a podiatrist, or bought over the counter. Make sure your child understands the importance of wearing the insoles at all times. 

If the issue persists, or buying suitable shoes/insoles doesn’t work, we’d recommend seeking support from a podiatrist. Every child deserves to feel comfortable at school, and whilst the shoes we’re going to recommend are definitely able to help, more serious issues should be addressed professionally. 

Our favourite school shoes for flat feet

The Lelli Kelly Jolie Patent Bow School Shoes fit the bill for arch support, firm heel counters, relatively flat soles and a flexible forefoot. Not only are they ideal for kids with flat feet, but they’re also extremely stylish! 

Whilst those looking for school shoes usually want black footwear, these shoes do also come in grey, brown, and dark blue, which are also suitable under many school uniform policies. They’re made even more adorable with a large bow sitting on the front! 

Alternatively, Lelli Kelly Kimberly Black Patent Brogue School Shoes have firm, flat slopes with a padded footbed for additional support. Black patent leather means they’re durable but flexible, especially for the forefoot area. Aesthetically, the shoes are slightly smarter, but they’re still very cute thanks to a decorative silver heart. 

Another great option for flat footed children are the Zoe Button Black Patent School Shoes. With a very firm heel counter to prevent ankle rolling, and adjustable straps for a comfortable but supportive fit. A thick and cushioned black sole unit is leather lined and provides the amount of shock-absorption that you need!