Back to School-Whatever That Looks Like For You -Recommendations for Kids’ Shoes

Back to School Recommendations for Kids’ Shoes

We don’t know exactly what back to school will look like this year for children. Whatever it is, they are going to need new sneakers. We’ve put together some helpful tips for you. For babies and toddlers, shoes or no-skid socks so they can use their toes when developing their balance reactions.

As kids enter preschool and elementary school, it’s important to understand that your child needs their shoes to provide stability. Children need to be able to protect and support their feet as they transition frequently from indoors to outdoors and navigate many types of surfaces.

A child’s shoe should have rubber soles with grooves for traction to prevent slipping and sliding. It should be lightweight and breathable. Most importantly, you want the shoe to provide support and stability to help your child to balance and run well. You don’t need to go with the trendiest or cutest shoe to accomplish this goal.

Support – It is best to have a sneaker that has arch support. 

Often, running shoes have a stiffer arch support that works for most kids.  The Arch area should be stiff and slightly elevated compared to the rest of the outer sole. Look at the instep view when ordering online.

Run your hand along the inner sole of the shoe where the sole touches the side wall along the inner arch. If you feel some support there, then have your child try on these shoes. The brands that we recommend you consider include New Balance, Tsukihoshi, Asics, and Saucony.

**If your child has pain in the foot, has a flattened arch or if you are unsure which shoes to select, we can help! Come in for a $99 Screening. We will assess your child’s foot shape and posture and can recommend a proper fitting shoe.**

Fit –

To ensure the best possible fit, have your child stand up when trying their shoes on. First check the heel and make sure there is space to fit only your pinky finger between your child’s heel and the heel of the shoe. Next, check the front and make sure there is a thumb-width space from the longest toe to the front of the shoe. Have your child wear socks while they are fitted to prepare for colder weather.

Lace vs Velcro –

Determine what type of fastener makes the most sense.  Fastener options often depend on the age and skill level of your child.  Laces can be difficult for toddlers while Velcro fastening makes shoes easier to put on and take off.  If your child is able to tie their laces, make sure the lace is long enough for a double knot to prevent your child from tripping if they come undone.

At the end of the day, the best shoes for your child are ones that fit well and allow your child to be as independent as possible. Some trendy shoes do fit this criteria but you may have to be a little flexible to get what you and your child want! Happy Shopping!