Parents and caregivers of children with cerebral palsy often tell us the same thing: finding shoes is harder than it looks. A shoe has to fit a foot that may be wider, a different shape on each side or supported by a brace, and it has to be something a child is happy to wear. This guide on shoes for cerebral palsy kids lists the features worth looking for, explains how to work with your child's care team and shows the BILLY styles families at FARID HUB ask about most. We welcome all People of Determination and their families.
A clear note first: we are a footwear shop, not clinicians. Nothing here is medical advice, and no shoe is claimed to treat, correct or improve any condition. Your child's doctor, physiotherapist or orthotist should guide the choice.
Why footwear needs differ for each child
Cerebral palsy affects each child differently. Some children walk independently, some use walking aids and some use a wheelchair for part or all of the day. Some wear an AFO (ankle-foot orthosis), while others wear other orthoses or none. Muscle tone, foot shape, sensitivity, hand function and a child's growth all change what a good shoe looks like.
So we avoid one-size-fits-all lists. A shoe that suits one child can fail another, and that is perfectly normal. What you can do is match the features to your child's needs and have your therapist check the fit.
Entry, depth, width, support: a checklist
Use this as a conversation starter with your care team:
Entry - Does the shoe open wide enough for the foot, or the foot and brace, to be placed in rather than pushed through? - Can the child, or whoever helps, manage the opening? Wrap-around zippers are designed to open the upper like a book.
Depth - Is there room for a brace or orthotic? Removable insoles can reclaim depth. On several BILLY pages we also see spacer insoles or dense foam wedge inserts mentioned.
Width - Is the width right? Many BILLY kids styles come in Wide (W) and Extra-Wide (XW). A wider shoe often fits better than a bigger size. Ask us if you are unsure which width to choose.
Support and stability - What does the clinician want from the shoe: a stable heel, a particular height or a firmer sole? Bring those requirements to us.
Closure and independence - Which closure can your child manage? Zippers, laces, loop pulls and straps each need different hand skills. Ask us if you would like to compare them.
Comfort and sensory needs - Consider seams, lining and pressure points if your child is sensitive to them.
Working with therapists and orthotists
Your child's team can tell you far more than any product page. Consider these steps:
- Share the shoe options with your therapist before you buy, or take a pair to a session. Product pages list the features and sizes.
- Ask about the brace. Which AFO or orthotic does your child wear, and what space does it need? Your orthotist may be able to tell you the best way to measure over the brace.
- Try the shoes on with the brace and with the socks your child normally wears. Check the heel, toes and any pressure marks after a short wear.
- Re-check as your child grows. Fit changes, so schedule regular checks with your team.
- Keep notes and photos of what works. They help you reorder and help us advise you.
The size guide at faridhub.com/pages/size-guide links to BILLY's official videos, including measuring over an orthotic brace.
Styles at FARID HUB that families ask about
All of the following come from the product pages we checked on 26 October 2026. Details and availability can change.
- BILLY Goat: tagged AFO-friendly, with a short wrap zipper and adjustable laces. The page says it was created with certified orthotists, with removable insoles. Kids' widths: W and XW. Sizes from EU 20 (US 5 Toddler).
- BILLY Limitless: a Full Wrap zipper, a sensory-friendly lining with a nearly seamless tongue and zipper guard, two spacer insoles and an extra-wide loop pull. Kids' widths: Medium, Wide and Extra-Wide, sizes EU 28 to 39.
- BILLY Classic D|R II High: a high-top with a Full Wrap zipper. The page describes a custom shape designed to better accommodate braces, orthotics and prosthetics. Medium, Wide and Extra-Wide.
Browse the full Kids AFO-Friendly collection. If a style seems to be a good match, ask us about it, and still check it with your therapist.
How we can help you match a pair
Message us on WhatsApp with your child's shoe size, the width they wear now, the type of brace and a photo of the foot or the current shoe. We will suggest styles from the range and explain the sizing. You can also read our FAQs or reach us through the contact page.
Delivery is free across the UAE on orders above AED 500, and unworn items can be returned within 14 days of delivery. Some sizes are offered as pre-order, which usually means a wait of a few weeks, so please check each page.
Frequently asked questions
Is there one best shoe for children with cerebral palsy? No. Children differ, and so do their braces, foot shapes and goals. Use a checklist for entry, depth, width, support and closure, and ask your care team.
Can I order a shoe if my child wears an AFO? Many families do. Look for styles tagged AFO-friendly, choose the width carefully and measure over the brace by following BILLY's video. Message us if you are unsure.
Do your shoes help treat cerebral palsy? No. We do not make medical claims. Our pages describe design features such as wide openings and removable insoles, and your clinician decides what is appropriate.
Start with a conversation
Browse the Kids AFO-Friendly collection or the Black BILLY Goat, or write to us on WhatsApp.