Is your kiddo getting an Indy 2 Stage? Are you talking about it with your orthotist?

The Indy 2 Stage is a two-brace system, which is highly customizable to your child’s specific diagnoses, such as hypotonia, hypertonia, pronation, and others.

Because it’s an SMO nested inside of an AFO, you may be wondering if it’ll be hard to fit the Indy 2 Stage into a shoe. Well, the second brace does add some bulk, but not as much as you might expect. Why?

• The plastic is thin, minimizing space
• The signature tightness of the SMO helps make the AFO narrower

Plus, our orthotists have found four solutions that make it easier to fit the Indy 2 Stage into your kiddo’s little shoes.

1. DIY Your Standard Shoes

If you need a little more room, you can update your standard shoes. Some parents:

• Cut out part of the shoe tongue—or all of it
• Buy longer shoelaces
• Snap on a magnetic lace closure, which can add slack to shoelaces

2. Buy Extra Wide Shoes

We recommend several popular shoe brands that have extra wide options, including:

• ikiki
• New Balance
• Converse
• Skechers
• Tsukihoshi
• Plae
• Stride Rite
• Vans

You might go through a little trial and error, so look for a return policy that works for you.

3. Get More Convenient Closures

Parents have found success with other adaptable shoe features, including:

• Stretchy Upper Mesh: These shoes have more “give” when putting them on over braces
• Velcro Straps: Adjustable, allowing for a custom fit

4. Buy Surestep Shoes

We sell shoes designed for braces. They are extra wide and deep, perfect for the Indy 2 Stage.

Surestep shoes also come with two removable insoles, which allows you to adjust the depth of the shoe to accommodate the bracing as needed. When your kiddo is wearing:

• Full Indy 2 Stage: Take out both insoles
• SMO Only: Leave one insole in the shoe

Remember Why We’re Using the Indy 2 Stage

The little bit of additional bulk is worth it!

The Indy 2 Stage is a versatile device that can adapt to fit your child’s needs as he or she grows and develops.

It can be modified to accommodate hypotonia, hypertonia, pronation, supination, delayed development and many other issues.

We are here for you! If you need help finding shoes or have any other questions about the Indy 2 Stage, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Find out what the Indy 2 Stage can do.