How to Buy the Right Children's Shoes

Avoid Foot Problems by Selecting Proper Kids' Footwear

Jul 15, 2009 Christina Majaski

Many foot problems can be avoided by keeping these things in mind when purchasing shoes for children.

Children are susceptible to the same foot problems as adults, and no one likes blisters, corns, bunions, unnecessary pain or stinky feet. Choose proper kids footwear to enable children to start out on the “right foot”.

Buy Children’s Shoes that Fit

At one time (long ago) it was standard to buy shoes for children that were two sizes too big to cut down on cost. It is still okay to buy kids footwear a little big to leave room to grow, but anything over a size bigger is too big. Most shoe stores will measure a child’s foot so that the correct size shoe can be purchased. Check for large gaps in the shoes and whether the heel slips out when the child walks.

Shoes that are too tight or too small will result in sore feet and possible ingrown toenails as well as other foot problems, and shoes that are too large will cause the toes to slide forward which is not only uncomfortable but results in sore toes as well.

If you’re concerned about kids outgrowing their shoes too quickly, there are a number of options for reselling children's clothes and shoes if kept in good condition.

Shoe Material Matters

When shopping for children’s shoes, look for leather and canvas shoes. Not only are the plastic and synthetic materials uncomfortable, causing corns, bunions and sores, but canvas and leather shoes are less likely to cause foot odor problems because of the breathability of the materials.

Leather and canvas shoes are especially important when buying sandals for girls or boys. Plastic pieces on thong sandals are notorious for causing blisters and sores between little toes.

Proper Soles and No High Heel Shoes

Make sure the shoes have a thick, sturdy sole, but still bends with the foot. Soles should not be too stiff or too floppy, and patterned soles provide traction.

Avoid heels on shoes for children as they are difficult for kids to walk and run in and are not healthy for growing feet. Stick with flat shoes with no heel for growing girls and boys. Young girls can try out the high heel shoes later and in the meantime enjoy healthy feet.

Inspect Children’s Shoes Regularly

Even after kids’ footwear is purchased they need to be checked regularly for wear and tear around the soles and for proper cushioning and arch support. Children’s shoes should also be comfortable immediately, while in the store and should not be expected to be “broken in” later.

Shopping for children’s shoes is not nearly as fun as shopping for adult shoes, but taking the time to buy kids footwear that results in healthy feet, free of foot problems will make it worthwhile.

Children's clothing shoppers may also be interested in Must Have Clothing for Kids.

The copyright of the article How to Buy the Right Children's Shoes in Children's & Teen Fashion is owned by Christina Majaski. Permission to republish How to Buy the Right Children's Shoes in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.