Children’s feet grow rapidly, and as back-to-school season arrives, parents must do more than shop for supplies—they need to find the right shoes. Parents should prioritize both function and fashion when choosing footwear. Shoe size, fit, and structure are imperative to ensure a proper fit.
Tips for Buying the Right Shoes for Children
Parents should measure their child’s feet before every shoe purchase since children’s feet change as they grow. Shoe and sock sizes can change every few months, so regular measurements are key. Poorly fitting shoes can lead to irritation and foot pain. Because one foot is often slightly larger than the other, parents should always fit shoes to the larger foot. Make sure there is a thumb’s width between the tip of the big toe and the end of the shoe with the child standing.
Involve your child in the shoe-shopping process. Bring them with you and let them help choose the shoes. Trying on shoes and walking around the store helps ensure a good fit. Always check the toe box with the child standing—gently press on the pinky and big toe areas to confirm there’s enough space for proper movement. Have your child wear the socks or tights they’ll typically use with the shoes to get an accurate fit.
Choose shoes that offer proper support:
- Select shoes with a stiff heel that resists squeezing or bending.
- Ensure the toe box bends easily as your child walks.
- Look for a solid midsole that doesn’t twist in the middle.
Inspect the heel for signs of uneven wear. Children may wear down the heels of shoes before they outgrow them. Uneven heel wear can signal a potential foot issue that a podiatrist should evaluate.
Avoid Hand-Me-Down Shoes
Never pass shoes from one child to another. Even if the shoes fit one child well, they likely won’t fit another the same way. Sharing shoes can also spread infections like athlete’s foot and nail fungus.
Help Your Child Start Off on the Right Foot
Properly fitting and supportive shoes help children avoid years of pain and future foot problems. The American Podiatric Medical Association offers helpful guidelines and a list of shoes that have earned the APMA Seal of Acceptance.
Please visit one of our offices is you have questions, concerns or if your child experiences foot pain and schedule an appointment with one of our doctors.