Children`s Shoes



Here are some tips when purchasing shoes for children:

  • Never try to force your child`s feet to fit a pair of shoes.
  • The child`s foot should be sized while he or she is standing up with full weight-bearing.
  • There should be about one-half inch of space (or a thumb`s width) between the tip of the toes and the end of the shoe. The child should be able to comfortably wiggle his or her toes in the shoe.

A soft, pliable, roomy shoe such as a sneaker is ideal for all children. The toe box should provide enough space for growth, and should be wide enough to allow the toes to wiggle. (A finger`s breadth of extra length will usually allow for about three to six months` worth of growth, though this can vary depending on your child`s age and rate of growth.)

If your child frequently removes his or her shoes, those shoes may be uncomfortable. Check your child`s feet periodically for signs of too-tight shoes, such as redness, calluses or blisters. And have your child`s feet measured periodically at the shoe store to determine whether his or her feet have grown enough to warrant a larger pair of shoes.

Remember that the primary purpose of shoes is to prevent injury. Shoes seldom correct children`s foot deformities or change a foot`s growth pattern. Casting, bracing or surgery are often needed if a serious deformity is present. If you notice a problem, have your child examined.

