Want to know one of the most difficult things about being a parent? Buying shoes for your kids! According to research, a normal, healthy child’s foot grows about 1.5mm every month. This means ¾ inch to ½ inch increase every year. So, although you might not like it, you will have to visit the shoe shop often. To make this process easy, we have compiled a quick guide on the things to consider when buying shoes for your kids. Hope this will help find the perfect pair!
1. Purpose of Shoes
From cute sharks slides to chunky boots, you will find a huge variety of shoes in the market. Each shoe will differ based on style, color, material, and more.
However, what we want you to focus on is the purpose of shoes. Does your child need shoes to wear in the house? Or shoes to wear at the upcoming family event? The answer will help you narrow down the variety of shoes and filter out the ones that will be a useful buy.
2. Measure Your Child’s Feet
Since a child’s foot grows so fast, relying on the shoe size he usually wears is the wrong approach. You will end up buying shoes that are either too big or too small. Then, you’ll have to come back for an exchange/refund. So, always measure your child’s feet. You can do this yourself, but we don’t recommend it. Instead, ask the assistants at the shoe store to professionally measure.
3. Choose Durable Soles
The soles are an important part of the shoe. They protect the feet from the harsh ground underfoot, preventing blisters and injuries. Also, durable soles enhance the overall longevity of the shoes. When choosing shoes for your child, give preference to shoes with sufficient support for proper foot development and comfort during various activities. Look for the thick, soft ones. They should also have a good grip so that your child’s foot doesn’t move a lot inside.
4. Make Sure the Shoes Fit Well
Lastly, find shoes that are comfortable and well-fitting for your child. Ask your child to wear the shoes and walk in them for at least 5 minutes. If he complains about tightness or discomfort, you’ll know it is not the right fit. You can also manually press the shoes to feel the spaces inside. There should be not too much or too little space between the foot and the shoe.
However, the front of the shoe should always have around half an inch of space. This ensures the child’s toes don’t rub against the shoe surface, which can cause blisters and bruises.
Last Words
Buying shoes for your kids doesn’t have to be a challenge, especially if you involve your child in the shopping process. If you know the right techniques and methods, you can find the perfect pair easily. We hope the above-discussed factors will help you to get a more enjoyable and successful shopping experience for both of you on your next shoe-shopping trip!