Guest Post
Buying Guide for Children’s Shoes
Shoe shopping can be stressful enough when you are an adult, but buying shoes for your children is in some ways, even harder. There are many more points that need consideration with children’s shoes; how they fit, measuring for the right size and how long will they last before their shoe size changes. On top of the practical issues, you will also have to consider where the shoes are going to be worn, where to buy them from and whether your children are going to like them. This can be a lot for any parent to handle.
So, to help you make the right choice and keep everyone happy, here is a buying guide that can be used for all ages.
Toddlers (ages 1 – 3)
Your child has just started to walk around and keeping up with them has become a handful. This is the first time that you will really need to consider your children’s footwear for stability, safety and the first proper fitting. Unlike our feet that have taken years of abuse, toddler’s feet are very soft, meaning that for this age you need to shop more for protection than style.
As summer is upon us, toddler’s sandals need to have a front section that will protect those toes. You also can pick up kids sandals from online retailers or physical stores, but do make sure that they have a firm sole. At this age you must also keep on top of the size of shoe your child needs. Growth spurts will be happening all the time so it may be advisable to get their feet measured every couple of months.
Nursery Age (ages 3 – 5)
Your child’s first day at school will be one of those memories that you have for life, full of pride and trepidation. Due to this you need to make sure that you have the right uniform including shoes before the big day comes along. Remember all the things you enjoyed at this age – jumping in puddles, climbing everything and running faster than you ever have before. This can be a lot of wear and tear on shoes. This is the time that you want to be looking at spending a little more money.
For school shoes, you can get different types of boys sandals or girls ballet pumps, which is the best is going to be determined by your child’s needs. For little girls who love to dance, you may want to choose a soft canvas plimsole, or the boys who love to swing higher than everyone else, you will need tough sole.
Primary Education Age (ages 6 – 12)
Although buying shoes for younger children is quite difficult, choosing for an older child can seem impossible. This is when they are beginning to notice what is in fashion, what their friends are wearing and of course they then want to match. Before you buy any expensive trainers, shoes or sandals, you need to make sure that you know your child’s size 100%. Their growth will be beginning to slow and so you will get a lot more wear from your purchases, which is great.
Start by finding out what it is your child wants to wear. Even if you don’t get the exact pair they are asking for, you will have a clearer picture of the style they like and can work with that. Look for shoes that will last first and foremost, then mix in their personal taste giving you a well-rounded purchase.
