Every doctor always recommends selecting the right shoes which can impact your child’s foot development. But do you know why?
There are various options in infant school shoes like unicorn boots. Trying on the first pair of school shoes is a significant moment in any child’s life. It marks the transition from a casual and fun life to a structured school environment.
But the biggest question is, do those shoes provide enough support for your kid’s feet?
We will show you what to look for in a child’s shoes and how to find a comfortable fit.
Features and Benefits to Look for in Good Quality Shoes
The little ones start walking and running before you know it! That is why you will consider the best infant school shoes for their busy feet.
Just as you would take the recommendations of an eye doctor seriously if they said your child needed glasses, you should similarly consider professional recommendations from a podiatrist about selecting the right shoes.
Consider the tips mentioned below:
- Consider The Material and Fit
Shoes for your child should be made of breathable materials like:
- Leather
- Canvas
- The newer mesh materials.
The shoes should have plenty of room in the toe box and should not pinch their feet anywhere. The professionals at the store will measure your child’s feet as the shoe needs to fit correctly at different points:
- The width
- The instep arching middle portion of the foot
- The flex point, the sole of the shoe bends most easily.
- Focus on Foot Health But Not the Price
It is not always a fact that more expensive unicorn boots equal better quality. You should not expect children’s shoes to be a bargain.
It is not recommended to use second-hand shoes, as this needs to fit your child’s feet perfectly.
It may be deemed acceptable to use this only in the scene where shoes are not frequently used, for example, ones that are reserved for special events.
- Consider Your Child’s Age
Infant school shoes may sometimes become a fashion accessory. But school shoes are something that is structured. The school shoes they are using should be lightweight to accommodate them.
Children shouldn’t wear:
- Backless shoes
- High heels
- Heels that are relatively short and pointy.
- Avoid Slip-on Shoes or Second-hands
School shoes are one thing that money-savvy parents should not buy online or second-hand.
Worn shoes will be molded to the shape of the previous child’s foot. This also causes problems for your child’s feet.
Slip-on shoes are not recommended by doctors for long-term use. They strongly advise:
- Lace-up shoes
- Velcro
- Buckle-up shoes.
- Structure and Support
Support for sports shoes comes from the structure of the following:
- Heel counter
- Midsole density
- Integrity of the shank.
This is important for high-impact activities like running and court sports or stylish shoes like unicorn boots. Some known brands offer kids options for prioritising structure and support.
By incorporating soft gel footbeds, you can enhance your footwear’s support and comfort without compromising on space.
- Be Alert for Ingrown Pain
If your children complain about leg or foot pains at any point during the year, it’s crucial to take their concerns seriously.
Do not dismiss them as mere “growing pains.” Seeking professional support is necessary to prevent any potential long-term issues.
- Comfort Is the Key
When it comes to unicorn boots or sports shoes for kids, comfort is key. An ideal school shoe should feature an EVA midsole that provides:
- Shock absorption
- A mesh upper
- Inner padding.
All these comfortably envelop the foot. Some of the top brands excel in providing comfort.
High-quality sports shoes typically do not require a “breaking in” period. So, immediate comfort is a good indication of a proper fit.
- Choose the Right Sole Material
When it comes to school shoes, the material used for the sole is crucial for:
- Comfort
- Support
- Grip
- Durability.
Typically, a combination of school shoe soles is made of:
- Leather
- Rubber
- A blend of rubber and EVA.
In terms of comparison, rubber soles are perfect for infant school shoes as they provide excellent shock absorption and durability.
On the other hand, leather soles are heavy, firm, and not ideal for active children.
If your child is very active, sports-style soles made from a combination of rubber and EVA are the best choice as they offer lightweight and cushioned soles.
When Should You Buy New School Shoes?
Doctors recommend that a school shoe should last between nine to twelve months. Keep in mind that foot size will increase during a growth spurt.
Typically, a child’s foot grows after the age of three about half a size every six months.
Observe significant signs of wear and tear on the shoes. If they cause discomfort to your child, it is advisable to replace them.
Conclusion
Children spend a lot of time on their feet, therefore it’s important to invest in suitable sports shoes or infant school shoes for their comfort and foot health.
There are notable distinctions between cheap sports shoes and well-made ones. The saying “you get what you pay for” applies to the durability support with comfort of running shoes.
