A guide to buying KIDS’ SHOES
HELP YOUR CHILD OR GRANDCHILD PUT THEIR BEST FOOT FORWARD
Whether your little one is the running, climbing, or kicking type, it’s safe to assume they spend a lot of time in their shoes.
Though you might think any shoe is a good one so long as your child or grandchild can get from A to B, director of AJC Podiatry, and a Bobux spokesperson, Antoni Caserta says footwear aids in correct bone development in young feet and legs. Here are some tips for when you’re next buying shoes…
THE RIGHT FIT
“A correctly fitted school shoe should follow the natural shape of your child’s foot,” says Antoni. “Footwear that is either too large or too small may cause foot pain in addition to skin and nail irritation.”
Antoni advises to allow for about one centimetre of space at the toes for adequate growing room.
GET A GRIP
A good shoe needs to allow the child to play on all kinds of surfaces, while combating the unpredictable Aussie weather. “[You need] a shoe that will provide a good grip on the sole of the shoe and an upper that protects the foot when a child bounds side to side, with fastenings such as Velcro, buckles or laces that secure the foot,” says Antoni.
AVOID IRRITATION WITH SOCKS
Oddly placed seams and rubbing soles can make getting any child’s foot in a shoe difficult. If this is the case, Antoni says a good sock could be the solution. “Trialling different styles, fabrics and seam locations will help with those uncomfortable sensations,” he explains.
OPT FOR BREATHABILITY
Clarks National Sales Manager Brett Cale notes that the last thing you want is for your child to have a fungal infection.
“With children sweating up to a can of sweat every day from their feet, it is also great to have an anti-bacterial application,” Brett suggests, adding that every Clarks shoe contains Micro-fresh technology to draw away bacteria.
SWAP OUT SNEAKERS
While sneakers are often a go-to for comfort, Brett explains your child shouldn’t wear them full-time. “They don’t offer the full support of the foot during their growth,” says Brett. If you do need to buy them, he suggests opting for support and breathability.