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Shoes

Really need advice as to where to get school shoes from that will fit with Afos! My daughter is ten and really loves her shoes but we struggle to find shoes that fit without going up to many sizes then she trips over them? It's becoming a nightmare and upsetting her that we are struggling! I've tried everywhere to the point where she will refuse to wear them!! Help!!!!
Replies
I know Clarks used to be able to sell you a pair of shoes with one shoe being a different size to the other but they may have stopped that service now. The Keeping Pace site has some useful information especially if your child is allowed to wear a trainer type shoe. Also the following website looks useful.
http://www.friendshipcircle.org/blog/2014/09/17/17-tips-for-finding-the-right-shoes-for-your-child-with-special-needs/
Keeping Pace is www.keepingpace.com
It may also be worth asking the Disabled Living Foundation for details of specialist suppliers - www.dlf.or.uk.
You probably already know all this but just thought it may be helpful especially as children are very conscious about being different from their friends.
Over the years I've tried many different ones, but in general have found Next to be the best fit & they do a great range with Velcro straps. Easier to put on/ take off & can adjust the straps to the width required.
If your daughter is tripping due to having to wear shoes that are too large to allow her afo to fit, it maybe that she needs an afo that is less bulky to enable her to wear correct size shoes. Technology is progressing all the time, it maybe worth discussing with her orthodist what options are available, like a smaller carbon fibre afo or a safo. Ask for a review, to reduce the risk of falls. I have found hotter shoe company to be a good source of suitable footwear for use with afo's. Always looking for other manufacturers tho!
All the very best
Noah
I'm new to this and our daughter's CP. We have recently got a AFO with a wedge for her left leg and we are struggling to find shoes to fit.
I have emailed nike adidas and they weren't really helpful. On the other hand DM were but wanted £300 for a made to measure pair of boots.
I was wondering if anyone has tried kickers with an AFO and if so were they OK.
Thanks
Sara
I couldn't agree more that finding shoes that accommodate orthotics, AFOs etc can be a real nightmare and a continual project.
This is a really good article on brands and shoes for AFOs, orthotics and DAFOs
http://chasa.org/living/shoes/
Hope this helps
Best wishes