Geelong and Ocean Grove Podiatrist, Amy Hawker gives advice on back-to-school shoes…
Finding the perfect school shoe can be an annual dilemma for parents of school-aged children (and sometimes a bi-annual dilemma if children have a growth spurt). In the January back-to-school frenzy, you'll find 'school-suitable' shoes from as little as $15 to more than $130. So how do you know which ones to choose? Why are some so expensive? Are the cheaper ones ok? Buckles, Velcro or laces? And why my kids wear them out so quickly?
Here are our tips for finding and fitting a suitable school shoe!
What are the best school shoes?
Back to school is upon us again and so it’s time to get the kids ready for the classroom and make sure they are ready for the school year. Uniforms need to be pressed and new school shoes need to be purchased. But with so many school shoes out there with a big range of price I often get asked ‘what are the best school shoes?
What is the best brand?
Here at Stance Podiatry, we find that Clarks and Ascent are popular as they consistently make great school shoes. They are also great when orthotics are required to worn inside school shoes. The Athlete’s Foot stock both of these brands. Also check out Faull’s Shoes or Mudge’s Shoes. However, rather than focusing on specific brands it’s about finding a functional, high quality and comfortable shoe that fit’s your child’s needs so if you would like some other suggestions please let us know.
Does the cost of a school shoe matter?
Children’s feet are constantly growing and changing in many ways and it is important to protect their feet with the right shoes depending on the activity. Children spend at least 30-40 hours a week in school shoes not only in the classroom but on the playground too, therefore, a good pair of properly fitted school shoes is an investment. Even though the appearance may be similar there are many features required in a good quality shoe which some other less pricey shoes may be missing.
Here are our tips for selecting the right school shoes so your children can achieve optimal foot and lower limb health:
#1 Find a shoe that has all the appropriate support features. These include:
Firm heel counter to provide stability and support to the foot
Bends at the toes but not in the middle of the shoe
Lace ups or an alternative fastener like Velcro or buckles to ensure a good fit
Length approximately one thumb’s width beyond the longest toe. Any longer than this and the shoe can become too sloppy and uncomfortable
A deep and wide enough toe box to allow the toes to spread naturally in the shoe
#2 Get fitted by a professional
Sometimes it can be hard to know if you are buying the right shoe for your child so visit a shoe shop where there are trained professionals to help you. These shop attendants will measure both your child’s feet then recommend the best shoes available depending on their needs.
Here are some steps to make sure the shoe fits properly:
-Always have both of your child's feet measured.
-Make sure there's a gap of about half the width of your thumb between your child's longest toe and the end of the shoe.
-Make sure the shoes are wide and deep enough for your child's foot. If you can see the outline of their foot, it's not a good fit.
-Your child should be comfortable in the shoes straight away, without feeling any pain or pressure points.
-Kids' feet tend to swell throughout the day. Shop for shoes in the afternoon.
-Don’t be tempted to buy a larger size your child can ‘grow into’. Shoes that fit well will support and protect vulnerable and growing feet.
#3 If your child has foot or lower limb concerns visit a podiatrist
Here at Stance Podiatry we are experts in treating children’s feet of all ages. No issue is too small and no age is too young. Our Melbourne children’s podiatrists can diagnose and treat all children’s foot problems including gait issues, ingrown toenails, warts or even just provide you with the right footwear advice. So if you have any concern regarding your child’s feet or lower legs then make an appointment with us today!
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask via email - hello@stancepodiatry.com.au or call us on 0409 092 298!
Enjoy your time back at school - Amy Hawker
hello@stancepodiatry.com.au
Call us on 0409 092 298!