While it can be tempting to focus on the style, colour and price of a school shoe, one of the most important things to consider is how well the shoe fits your childâs growing feet.
Childrenâs feet are constantly developing, and wearing shoes that are too small, too narrow or poorly fitting can contribute to problems such as blisters, corns, ingrown toenails and foot pain.
So, what should you look for when buying your childâs next pair of school shoes?
1. Get their feet measured
One of the biggest mistakes parents can make is assuming their child is the same shoe size as last year.
Childrenâs feet can grow surprisingly quickly, particularly during periods of rapid growth. Itâs a good idea to have both feet professionally measured before buying new school shoes, as one foot may be slightly larger than the other.
Avoid simply buying the same size as their old shoes or relying on the size printed inside the shoe. Shoe sizing can vary considerably between brands and styles.
2. Look for plenty of room at the toes
A school shoe should allow the toes to move naturally.
There should be enough space at the front of the shoe for your childâs longest toe without their toes pressing against the end. The toe box should also be wide enough to allow the toes to spread comfortably rather than being squeezed together.
Shoes that are too short or narrow can place unnecessary pressure on the toes and may contribute to problems such as blisters, corns and ingrown toenails.
A useful tip
When trying on shoes, make sure your child is standing up. The foot can lengthen and widen slightly when weight is placed on it, so checking the fit while sitting down isn’t always enough.
3. Check that the heel is secure
A good school shoe should hold the heel comfortably in place without slipping excessively.
A secure heel helps prevent the foot from moving around inside the shoe and reduces friction, which can lead to rubbing and blisters.
However, the shoe shouldn’t feel excessively tight around the heel or ankle.
4. Choose a shoe that bends in the right place
Children need to be able to walk and run naturally during the school day.
Ideally, the sole should allow some flexibility around the forefoot, where the foot naturally bends when walking. Avoid shoes that are extremely stiff and restrict normal movement.
At the same time, a school shoe shouldn’t be so soft or flimsy that it offers little support or protection.
5. Don’t forget about the fastenings
Laces, Velcro and buckles can all work well, depending on your childâs age and ability.
The important thing is that the fastening allows the shoe to be secured properly to the foot.
A shoe that is too loose can cause the foot to slide around, while one that is fastened too tightly can create uncomfortable pressure.
6. Take school socks with you
When buying school shoes, try them on with the type of socks your child will normally wear to school.
A shoe that fits perfectly with thin summer socks might feel very different with thicker school socks.
It’s also worth checking that there are no uncomfortable seams or areas inside the shoe that could rub against the foot.
7. Don’t buy shoes with lots of “growing room”
It can be tempting to buy shoes several sizes too big so that your child can get longer out of them.
Unfortunately, shoes that are excessively large can be just as problematic as shoes that are too small.
If the foot is moving around inside the shoe, it can increase friction and make walking and running less comfortable.
Instead, look for a shoe with an appropriate amount of room for growth while still providing a secure and comfortable fit.
8. Check their feet regularly
Once your child starts wearing their new school shoes, don’t forget to keep an eye on their feet.
Look out for:
- Red or sore areas
- Blisters
- Broken skin
- Corns or areas of hard skin
- Changes to the toenails
- Ingrown toenails
- Complaints of foot, heel, knee or leg pain
- Changes in the way your child walks or runs
Children don’t always tell us when something is uncomfortable. Sometimes they simply stop complaining about their shoes, change the way they walk or avoid certain activities.
Checking their feet regularly can help you spot problems before they become more significant.
What about school shoes and growing feet?
Children’s feet change throughout childhood, so there’s no single “perfect” school shoe for every child.
The best shoe is one that fits their individual foot, provides enough room for natural movement and feels comfortable when they are walking and running.
If your child regularly complains of foot or leg pain, develops recurring blisters or ingrown toenails, or you notice changes in the way they walk, it may be worth having their feet assessed by a podiatrist.
A fresh start for the school year
Buying new school shoes is a small part of the back-to-school routine, but getting the fit right can make a big difference to your child’s comfort throughout the school day.
Before the school bell rings, take a few minutes to check their shoes, socks and feet. Comfortable, well-fitting footwear gives growing feet the best chance to move, develop and stay healthy.
If you have concerns about your child’s feet, walking pattern or footwear, our team at South Dublin Podiatry can help. Contact the clinic to arrange an assessment.