As a kids' shoes supplier and writer, the most frequently asked questions I hear from parents definitely include "how can I know if my kids' shoes are too tight?" and "do I have to bring my child along when buying shoes for him/her?"
This question also concerns many non-profit organizations such as AAOS (American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons) which claims that over 60% of kids are wearing shoes that are too tight at home. Some parents believe kids' feet are flexible and they can cram into tight shoes without getting hurt. Thriftiness is a good virtue until it hurts your kid. I've seen children with serious blisters on their feet incurred by shoes that are too stiff. That's a serious problem. Kids need new shoes before their feet grow blisters or toes have to curl up to fit.
As we always advice, the best way to buy a pair of well-fitting shoes for kids is to take them along with you when shopping. Have a sales expert measure their feet accurately and ask your kids to try shoes on to feel if they're comfy. Then check if both sides of heels are firm and soles are bendable at the ball of the feet. A pair of well-fitting kids shoes should be designed by professionals that have in-depth knowledge of kids' foot development.
Many parents ignore the fact that marked sizes are sometimes inaccurate, depending on brands, models and styles. Therefore, the proper way is to have your kids put the new shoes on in a standing position and walk around for a minute to find if they really fit. If they tell you that their feet feel pressed or irritated, it's a sign that the shoes are too tight.
Also notice that anyone's two feet are of slightly different sizes and measurement of both is important. Since it's impossible to buy a pair of shoes of two slightly different sizes, buy a pair that fits the wider or longer foot. Shoes made from genuine leather or suede are the best to keep kids feet dry and cool.
Lastly, what's more significant, comfort or style? Well, if it's impossible to find both attributes in a pair of kids' shoes, we definitely suggest choosing ones that are comfortable.
Kids grow so fast that even a pair of shoes bought two months ago can become too stiff now. So have your kids feet measured every month and, if new shoes are needed, follow the kids shoes shopping tips to make sure their feet can develop healthily.
Disclaimer: All information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! By no means is any
information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
or organization.
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