As the final days of summer tick down, the first days of school draw closer and closer. It’s time for new notebooks, new pencils, and new back-to-school shoes! Yet with so many options, the process of shopping for your child’s ever-changing feet can quickly become overwhelming. How do I find the right size? How do I choose the best shoe for my child’s age? How do I find the best quality shoe for their day-to-day needs?
Here are some simple dos and don’ts to help you and your child spring confidently into this school year.
Do
Measure your child’s feet
Young feet grow very quickly, so be sure to measure each foot every time you shop for new children’s shoes.
Carefully examine the shoes
Look for firm heels, ample insole cushioning, and a strong built-in arch. The shoes should be bendable at the ball of the foot and supportive in the middle of the shoe.
Choose shoes based on your child’s habits
Select the best shoes for your child’s wear patterns. For example, if you know your child is prone to ankle sprains, choose a pair of supportive boots or high-top shoes.
Don’t
Measure your child’s feet while they’re sitting down
To ensure an optimal fit when measuring, make sure your child is standing up with their full weight bearing down on each foot.
Force your child’s foot into the shoe
Your child will need room to move and grow into their shoes. Allow for about one half inch (or one thumb’s width) of space between the tips of the toes and the ends of the shoes.
Forget to take the shoes for a test drive
Have your child walk around the store wearing a clean pair of medium-thick socks, then check their foot for signs of irritation.
For more expert advice on back-to-school shoe shopping for you and your child, consult our highly qualified podiatrist Zahid Ladha, D.P.M. at Foot First Podiatry in Albany, IN. Contact us at (812) 945-9221 and schedule an appointment today!