Tips for Buying Shoes for Your Kids for the New School Year

Tips for Buying Shoes for Your Kids for the New School Year

Choosing the Right Shoes for Kids: Combining Fit and Style

Buying new shoes for the back-to-school season should be more than just a fashion statement – it’s crucial to consider the right fit for your child’s foot health. Shoes play a significant role in how kids’ feet function and should be chosen with care, according to orthopedists at the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) in New York.

“When parents bring their children in with foot pain or an injury, the first thing I do is ask about their shoes. The problem is often inappropriate or poorly fitting footwear,” said Dr. John Blanco, a pediatric orthopedic surgeon at HSS in New York City and on Long Island.

Footwear has a profound impact on how children’s feet function throughout the day, especially during athletic activities. Therefore, it’s essential to prioritize fit, support, and material durability when selecting shoes for your child.

The Importance of Fit and Support

Start by considering the length and width of the shoes. It’s crucial to ensure that there is adequate arch support. Dr. Blanco emphasizes that if shoes were the right size, offered proper support, and were laced up appropriately, it would likely solve 80% of the basic foot problems seen in kids.

While shopping for shoes, it can be helpful to visit a specialty store where the staff can measure your child’s foot and assist in selecting the best shoe type based on their specific foot type. Contrary to the belief that expensive shoes are better, the price of the sneaker has nothing to do with the quality. Dr. Blanco frequently sees kids wearing shoes that may look fancy on the outside but provide inadequate support.

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Explore Different Brands

Physical therapist Joseph Molony, manager of the Young Athlete Program at HSS, suggests seeking shoes from reputable brands known for their quality. Each company uses a specific foot mold when designing their shoes, so finding the brand that fits your child’s foot best is crucial. Some children may require a narrower heel, a wider toe box, or a higher arch. Trying different brands can help determine what fits best.

Good-fitting shoes should be both comfortable and snug, with no gaps between your child’s foot and the inside of the shoe. The shoe should not be too tight to rub against the foot in certain spots, and the heel should stay in place when walking. Dr. Blanco recommends choosing shoes with laces instead of Velcro, as laces provide better stability. Ensure the laces go to the top hole and are tied snugly.

“A loose shoe can leave someone more prone to injury if playing a sport,” warned Dr. Blanco.

Consider Activity-Specific Shoes

It’s essential to consider the specific activity your child will engage in when choosing shoes. If your child plays a sport, opt for shoes designed specifically for that activity. For example, running shoes are not suitable for court and field sports. Using appropriate shoes for each activity helps prevent injuries and supports optimal foot function.

When to Retire Your Child’s Shoes

Lastly, it’s essential to retire shoes once they’re worn out, as they no longer provide adequate support for your child’s growing feet. Dr. Blanco notes that one common problem he observes is people wearing their shoes to the very end, even when they are no longer in good condition. Shoelaces may be broken, the toe may be ripping through the side, and the sole may be worn down. It’s important to prioritize your child’s foot health over sentimental attachment to worn-out shoes.

Ensuring the right fit and support for your child’s shoes goes a long way in maintaining their foot health and preventing injuries. By making informed choices, you can prioritize both comfort and style, ensuring your child’s feet are well taken care of.

For more information, you can visit the U.S. National Library of Medicine.

Source: Hospital for Special Surgery, news release, Aug. 4, 2023

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