As the school holidays wrap up and families get back into routine, one of the key items on the to-do list is buying new school shoes. While it might seem like just another errand, the shoes your child wears every day can have a big impact on their foot health, posture, and comfort.

At South Dublin Podiatry, we often see a spike in sore feet, heel pain, and posture issues in kids during the first few weeks of term and often, it comes down to footwear.

So before you head to the shops, here are some tips to help you choose the right pair, plus a few things to watch out for once school is back.

Why School Shoes Matter

Your child will likely spend more than 30 hours a week in their school shoes running, walking, playing, sitting cross-legged on the floor, you name it. A good pair of shoes isn’t just about looking smart or lasting the year; it’s about supporting your child’s growing feet and preventing injuries or pain down the track.

What Makes a Good School Shoe?

1. A Proper Fit

 Get their feet professionally measured every time. Kids’ feet grow fast, and sizes can vary between brands. Make sure there’s enough space for their toes to wiggle (about a thumb’s width from the end) and that the shoes feel snug but not tight.

2. Good Support

 Look for shoes with a firm heel, a supportive arch, and a little bit of cushioning. Flat shoes like slip-ons or ballet flats might look nice, but they don’t offer enough support for everyday wear.

3. Durable, Breathable Materials

 Leather or quality synthetics will last longer and help keep feet cool and dry. Avoid anything that feels flimsy or stiff.

4. Secure Fastenings

 Velcro, laces, or buckles help keep the foot in place and reduce the risk of trips and slips, especially important if your child is active.

Foot Issues to Keep an Eye On

Even with the right shoes, it’s worth checking in on your child’s feet regularly. Here are a few common issues we see in school-aged kids:

–Heel Pain (Sever’s Disease)

This is really common in kids aged 8–14, especially if they play a lot of sport. It’s caused by irritation around the growth plate in the heel. If your child complains of sore heels or starts limping, don’t ignore it.

–Ingrown Toenails

Tight shoes or nails cut too short can lead to painful, red, swollen toes. Make sure shoes aren’t squashing their toes, and teach them how to cut their nails straight across.

–Flat Feet

Some kids grow out of flat feet, but if they’re experiencing pain or fatigue after walking or running, it’s worth getting checked. Sometimes a simple insole or a few strengthening exercises can make a big difference.

–Verrucae and Fungal Infections

School gyms and change rooms can be breeding grounds for things like a Verruca or athlete’s foot. Encourage your child to wear flip flops or sliders in communal areas and to dry their feet properly after showering.

A Few Final Tips for Parents

• Rotate shoes if you can – it helps them last longer and gives them time to air out.
  
• Check shoe size every few months – growth spurts can sneak up on you!
  
• Don’t ignore complaints of foot pain – kids might not always speak up unless it’s bothering them a lot.
  
• Book a podiatry check-up – if you’re unsure, a quick visit to the podiatrist can give you peace of mind (and save a lot of hassle later).
  

We’re Here to Help

If you’re unsure whether your child’s shoes are the right fit, or they’re complaining about sore feet, we’re here to help. A quick check-up can make a huge difference and help get the school year off to a great start.

📞 Call us on 01-9012009 or book online at www.southdublinpodiatry.com