It’s time to get back to school, and every kid needs at least one pair of new shoes to start the year out. Shoes can be expensive, and it can be even worse if there is more than one child that needs them. Here are some tips for saving a few dollars when buying children’s shoes.
Buy One Get One Sales for Shoes
Many shoe stores have buy one get one sales quite frequently which can save a bunch of money on shoes for kids. Even if there is only one child, take advantage of the sale and purchase a pair of gym shoes and a pair of dress shoes at the same time. Check online at stores like Payless.com and Famous Footwear which regularly have buy one get one sales.
Cheap Kids Shoes at Consignment and Second Hand Stores
When it comes to kids shoes, there’s nothing wrong with picking up a pair at a consignment shop or second hand store. Children grow out of shoes quickly and aren’t able to wear them long enough to damage them. Children are also less likely to have athlete’s foot or other foot problems that usually deter adults from buying second hand shoes. If there is a concern, most shoes can be cleaned or thrown into the washer and dryer.
Another benefit of buying children’s shoes from consignment and second hand stores is that there are usually designer shoes available that maybe one wouldn’t normally be able to afford. Check your area for stores like Once Upon a Child or even take a look at Ebay for great bargains on high end children’s shoes.
Purchase Shoes for Kids Off Season
Summer is a great time to buy boots for kids and winter for summer shoes because they will be less expensive during the off season, similar to clothing. Many stores are selling kids boots during back to school sales, which is a perfect time to purchase them and save money.
Check Online Shoe Stores First
Make sure to surf the web before hitting the shopping malls. Online stores will have sales and discounts only available online and will usually have more of a selection of shoes available. Many online shoe stores offer free shipping or free shipping to the store where they can be picked up. Have the child’s foot measured professionally beforehand so that the correct size shoe is purchased.
Buy Washable and Repairable Shoes
Select sturdy leather children’s shoes or shoes made of canvas that can be washed or repaired with a little shoe polish because they’ll last longer and in the end save money on the shoe bill. Avoid patent leather and suede as they are not easily repaired and the smallest scratch or mark will make the shoe appear old and worn out sooner.
Plan Ahead During a Big Shoe Sale
It’s okay to buy larger sizes of shoes for kids to wear in the future. If the shoe store is having a once in a lifetime sale or the bargains are too good to pass up, grab a couple pairs of shoes for the kids to wear in the future. If this is the plan though, stay away from trendy styles and licensed characters like SpongeBob and Dora the Explore that may not be as popular (or the child's favorite) later and stick with standard tennis shoes or boots for kids.
Kid's shoes don’t have to cost an arm and a leg, especially when it’s back to school time. Watch for the big sales and shop around to save money on cool shoes for kids.
For back to school shopping, be sure to read How to Make Money Selling Children’s Clothes and Must-Have Clothing for Kids.
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