As summer draws to an end, it’s time to embark on that time-honored tradition of back-to-school shopping, trading in shorts for long pants, t-shirts for sweaters, and sandals for warmer seasonal shoes. Yet with so many options, the process of shopping for your child’s ever-changing feet can quickly become overwhelming. How do I find the right size? How do I choose the best shoe for my child’s age? How do I find the best quality shoe for their day-to-day needs?

Here are 5 great tips for back-to-school shoe shopping to ensure your child puts their best foot forward this fall!

1. Measure wisely

Because children’s feet grow so rapidly, both feet should be measured every time you’re shopping for new shoes. Always choose shoe sizing based on the largest foot to ensure an optimal fit. 

When measuring your children’s feet, make sure they are standing up with their full weight bearing down on each foot. Allow for about one half inch (or one thumb’s width) of space between the tips of the toes and the ends of the shoes. Finally, have your children give their shoes a quick toe-wiggle test to limit potential for corns, calluses, and blisters.

2. Examine the shoes carefully

Look for:

• firm heels
• ample insole cushioning
• a strong built-in arch
• flexibility/bendability at the ball of the foot

3. Feel inside of the shoe

Make sure you don’t feel any staples, mis-stitched seams, or irregularities in the glue that could cause foot irritation.

4. Take the shoes for a test drive

Have your child walk around the store wearing a clean pair of medium-thick socks. Ask your child if they feel any pinching or sliding when they walk, and check their foot for tell-tale red marks.

5. Select shoes based on your child’s habits

Finally, use your parental expertise to choose the best shoes for your child’s lifestyle and wear patterns. If they struggle with laces, choose a pair with sturdy Velcro straps. If they’re prone to ankle sprains, choose a pair of supportive boots or high-top shoes. 

For more expert advice on shoe shopping for your child, consult our board certified podiatrists Dr. Greg Khaimov, Dr. Daniel Pollack, Dr. Walter Majdanski, and Dr. Yakov Haimof at Foot and Ankle Center of Fort Lee, LLC. The center offers convenient locations in Fort Lee NJ, Ringwood NJ, Flushing Queens NY, Woodhaven NY, Brooklyn NY, and Forest Hills NY. Contact us at (201) 363-9844 and schedule an appointment today!