As much as we hate to admit it, the school year is right around the corner, and as busy parents we’re sure you’re starting to head out to shop for school supplies, clothes, and shoes. Here are some useful tip’s from Jim, our owner and a Certified Pedorthist that you should consider before you go shoe shopping with your children:
Your Child’s Needs:
- What types of shoes does your child need and how active is he or she?
- Will your child be required to wear a dress shoe with a school uniform?
- Will he need special gym shoes that stay at school?
- Is she going to be participating in any extra-curricular activities?
- How rough is your child on shoes?
Proper Fit
- In order to make sure that your child will be able to run, play, and get through their school days in comfort, always make sure to have both of your child’s feet measured by a trained fit specialist every time you go shoe shopping.
Did you know that because children’s feet are constantly growing and it’s not uncommon for them to change a size every three to four months? So having your child’s foot measured each time they get new shoes is critical for a proper fit. This also why at Stan’s we don’t recommend purchasing your children’s shoes online.
Tips for a Proper Fit:
- Purchase shoes with laces or Velcro to help ensure a proper fit where the child’s heel is snug but not tight enough that will cause a blister.
- The shoe should also fit the contour of the foot with no obvious gaps on the sides particularly around the ankles.
- Your child’s toes should be approximately a thumb-nails width away from the front edge of the shoe.
- Make sure the sole of the shoe is flexible at the ball of your child’s foot yet sturdy enough to protect the entire foot. Due to weather in Wisconsin, make sure there is good tread on the sole of the shoe so your child won’t fall on slippery surfaces as it becomes colder outside.
Look for shoes that are made of quality, breathable material such as leather, mesh or canvas versus vinyl. Breathable materials are better at keeping a child’s feet cool. They also wick away perspiration which ultimately helps the shoes to last longer, reduces chances of blisters and keep shoes from getting smelly in your mud room after a long day at school.
The Scoop on Hand-Me-Downs
Think twice before trying to save a few dollars by accepting hand-me-down shoes from a family member or friend. Remember, your child is born with only one set of feet and as a parent, it’s your job to protect them so they can last a lifetime. Used shoes are already worn to the shape of another child’s foot, and as a result they probably won’t fit or support your child’s foot properly.
Did you know that when you buy your back to school shoes at Stan’s you help Children’s Hospital?
Stan’s believes in giving back to the community. For every pair of Back to School shoes purchased in August a percentage of the sale will go towards the Children’s Hospital School Room Fund, which helps children stay current with their school work while they are hospitalized.
Have a great school year!
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