The first day of school is right around the corner and back to school shopping is in full swing.
Below are some tips to consider when shopping for a new pair of shoes for you child:
- Do not hand down shoes. Shoes fit each child differently. A pair that is comfortable for one child may not be for another. Sharing shoes can also lead to fungal infections like Athlete’s foot since shoes can harbor fungal spores.
- Measure the length and width of your child’s feet. Kids shoe and sock size can change every few months as they grow. If their feet are two different sizes, always buy for the larger foot.
- Bring socks/tights with you. To ensure a proper fit, bring along what your child will be wearing to school on a regular basis.
- Inspect the shoe for the following:
- Stiff heel counter. Squeeze the heel of the shoe, it should maintain its shape and not collapse.
- Limited torque. When holding the heel of the shoe in one hand and the toe box in the other, gently twist the shoe. There should be some resistance.
- Flex point. When holding the heel of the shoe, push up on the bottom of the toe box. The shoe should bend where the toes naturally do.
- Bring your child shopping. This will ensure a proper fit.
- Every shoe brand is made and sized differently. As a rule, when your child is standing in the shoe, there should be a thumb’s width of space between their longest toe and the edge of the shoe.
- Shoes should feel comfortable while in the store. Don’t wait until you wear them at home to “break them in.”
- Watch for heel wear. As time goes on, inspect the sole of the shoes for heel wear. This may be a sign of an underlying biomechanical issue that needs to be addressed.
We are here to help! If you would like us to measure your child’s/children’s feet or have any questions please give our office a call at 856-599-0133.
