Do you always have a problem selecting the right size of shoe for your child? If the answer is a big yes, worry no more as this article is here to end the nightmare. Below are some of those tips that will help ensure that you choose the right size of shoe that fits your child properly.
When to buy new shoes for your child
It is very hard to decide whether it is time you bought your child a new pair of shoes unless they complain that they are uncomfortable. Therefore it is a good idea to check your child’s shoes on a regular basis to determine whether the shoes are still working for him or her.
You should check for any stressed seams or worn areas. If the shoes are bulging or wearing out more quickly than the rest of the shoe, then it may mean that they may not be wide enough.
If the toes bend upwards, it is a sign that your child’s shoes do not fit properly. Worn out toes or heels mean that you need to start looking for money to buy a new pair of shoes.
Tips to consider when shopping for children shoes
The best time to go shoe shopping is later in the afternoon or evening. Why this time? Because feet swell over the course of the day.
However, if your child is not into shoe shopping, it is a good idea to look for a store that specializes in children’s footwear. Members of staff working in these stores are well versed in dealing with the reluctant shoe shopper.
Even though you will find shoes for kids that are both cute and trendy, it is not good to overspend as children usually outgrow shoes very quickly. The only exception is if there is a special occasion the child will be attending. Spend moderately as new shoe occasions are always around the corner.
Getting the right fit in kid’s shoes
It is very important to have your child’s feet measured when buying shoes. This is due to the fact that what may be comfortable for the child for about a minute or two in the store will be different from what he or she will be comfortable after a day of playing.
Your child’s feet should be measured while he or she is standing. Ensure that both feet are measured since one foot may be larger than the other and need shoes that fit it perfectly.
When your child wears the new shoes, it should allow him or her to fully extend his or her feet. You should always watch out for toe crunching! There should be a small space between the edge of the shoe toe and the edge of the toes. This space should measure about a half inch.
With the fact that children outgrow shoes, some people may be tempted to buy shoes that are too big for their child so that they never have to buy shoes from time to time.
However, it is not a good idea to buy shoes that are more than one size too large for the child. The major problem with big shoes that are too large for the child is that they can cause a child to trip and develop foot problems when walking.
A shoe whose heel is very tight is uncomfortable and a shoe that is too loose is also not any better and can also be very uncomfortable also. The heel of the shoe should be close fitting but not too tight around the back of the heel.
We adults mostly tend to “break in” a pair of shoes. However, this is not really a good idea especially for kids. Whenever you go looking for a child’s shoes ensure that it is immediately comfortable. You should never allow for a breaking in period or expect the shoes to become more comfortable over time. A good shoe should be able to fit and feel good immediately.
Choosing shoes for children.
Children’s shoes need to have Velcro, laces or other fastening systems. It is good to avoid backless or slip-on shoes when shoe shopping for kids.
You should also choose shoes made from breathable materials including leather or canvas. Apart from their durability, these shoes will help keep your child’s feet cooler and drying. This will help prevent discomfort, blisters, and smelly shoes.
Although heels may look cute and you may be tempted to buy them for your child, it is wise to avoid buying them. Heels are usually bad for proper foot development and difficult to walk in. When you go shopping for a child’s shoes, stick with flats or even soles.
Opt for shoes with a textured or patterned soles as it will provide friction that will prevent your child from slipping on slippery surfaces.
The soles need to be strong and thick enough so that it can protect your child’s feet from pain and from injuries. The sole should also be flexible so that it will not bend the child’s foot.
If you want to add some fun to your children’s foot wear then consider shoes with LED lights in the soles or their favourite cartoon.
After you have found shoes that fit properly and ones that are designed for a child’s feet, allow your child to choose which shoes they prefer. The shoe shopping experience will be a good one if the child gets to choose a color or design they like from shoes that fit well and ones that are appropriate for growing feet.