You know the return to school means you need to put something more substantial on your child’s feet than flip-flops and sandals, but what? Is there really that much of a difference among children’s shoes?
If you think about the wide variety of shoes in your own closet, you’ll know the answer is yes.
There are shoes that pinch your toes and are agony by the end of the day, and then there are the shoes that make you feel like you’re walking on air. Which kind would you prefer you child to be wearing all day?
Finding proper shoes is not just a back-to-school task — it’s a challenge all year long, say the experts at the American Podiatric Medical Association. Here are some things they suggest you keep in mind:
• When it comes to shoes, banish the hand-me-downs. Even if the shoes seem like they still have a lot of wear left, never hand down footwear. Just because a shoe fit one child comfortably doesn’t mean it will fit another the same way. Also, sharing shoes can spread fungi like athlete’s foot and nail fungus.
• Take your child shoe shopping. You may think you know what your child will like. And you may think you know the correct size. But every shoe fits differently. Letting a child have a say in the shoe-buying process promotes healthy foot habits down the road.
• Proper fit is key. Always measure a child’s feet before buying shoes. Don’t assume you know the correct size based on your last purchase, even if it was just last month (or even last week). When your child tries on a pair — yes, both shoes! — Watch him walk in them. Do they slip down on the heel? Do they look too tight? Watch for signs of potential irritation.
• Bigger is better. Always buy for the larger foot. Feet are seldom precisely the same size. Make sure you check both feet and select the larger size. It’s easier to deal with a shoe that is slightly too big than one that is too small. Also, make sure your child tries on shoes with socks of the thickness he will be wearing with the shoes.
• Patience isn’t a virtue when it comes to shoes. Do not buy shoes that need a “break-in” period or that your child needs to grow into. Shoes should be comfortable immediately and fit properly from the start. How long would you be willing to wear shoes that give you blisters, make you walk awkwardly, or are uncomfortable?
• Buy something solid. Look for a stiff heel — it shouldn’t collapse when you press on the back of the shoe. Also, the shoe should have a reasonably rigid middle. Your child’s shoe should never twist in the middle. Finally, check for toe flexibility. The shoe should bend with your child’s toes.
• Be prepared to go shopping again soon. Children’s feet change with age. Shoe and sock sizes may change every few months as a child’s feet grow. Don’t expect your purchase to last for months on end.
