What do I need to look for when buying shoes for my three kids? Cheap shoes fall apart, so I buy better quality shoes for them. My main concern is that more expensive shoes may not necessarily be good for the development of their feet. I want to make sure that the shoes I buy give them the support they need and do not cause any long-term damage.
Angella D. e-mailed us at expert@sweetspot.ca; and our kids’ shoe expert, Katherine Chapman, answered:
When shopping for children’s footwear always look for quality and be aware that price does not always indicate quality. The best quality casual shoes for your children’s feet are made from natural materials, such as leather. Look for shoes with soft leather insoles and leather padding on the heel.
When looking for sneakers, look for breathable, washable styles. Put your hand inside the shoes to make sure there are no rough edges or exposed seams. Shoes should be lightweight and comfortable—kids should not have to endure blisters to "wear in" new shoes.
Another important aspect of shoe selection for kids is the fit. Fit is critical to avoiding long-term damage. Visit a store that offers fitting from knowledgeable staff and quality footwear at reasonable prices. It’s important to note that children’s feet grow every 4-6 months, so don't forget to get a size check-up each season to ensure the shoes still fit properly.
Katherine Chapman is the co-founder and chairman of OLLY Shoes, a one-stop destination for high quality children’s footwear with a unique, proprietary computerized fitting system.