4MyChild: Help and Hope for Life

May 9, 2007

Best Shoes to fit over AFO’s (Ankle-Foot Orthoses)

You don’t have to spend a ton of money on expensive shoes to fit over AFO’s. Many Physical Therapist will recommend get a wide width shoe from Payless or Wal-Mart. The ankle support is there in the AFO so the shoe is the to prevent slippage and for “style” . If you have a choice- look for mesh rather than leather- the leather will stretch out but the mesh will accommodate the AFO better.

Whether you choose laces, velcro or open back is a personal choice.

You can buy specially made shoes for AFO’s- from Keeping Pace ( which are quite cute) or Hatchback Footwear http://www.hatchbacksfootwear.com/index.htm , which are known for their ease of use BUT many kids find them to be on the heavy side.

Other suggestions for a shoe that works well with AFO’s-

http://www.biteshoes.com/ : These are quite funky and trendy looking- older kids will LOVE them.

New Balance : again buy these in wide width.

Stride Rite

K-Swiss

Adidas

Have you had particular luck with a shoe that fits well over your child’s AFO? Please share !