Kids & Toddler Shoes
Children’s feet grow continuously during the first few years, making it necessary to replace their shoes every few months. Because their feet are so sensitive at this age, it is important that kids and toddler shoes should be well-fitted and ultra comfortable. Tight, ill-fitting shoes can cause a lot of damage to tender, growing feet.
Kid’s shoes should be comfortable from the start. New shoes that need to be broken in are not well-designed and are not worth the discomfort they will cause your child.
When buying children’s shoes, special attention needs to be paid to the width, length and the depth of the shoe. Look for light-weight shoes that are well-ventilated, flexible and allow plenty of room for growth. Kids shoes with rounded toe boxes, give toes extra room for movement and growth, enhancing the comfort level significantly.
The Fit of the Shoe
It is more important that kids and toddlers shoes are flexible, comfortable and roomy rather than sturdy and providing rigid support.
The Upper Part of the Shoe
Because children’s feet perspire a lot, the upper part of kids and toddler shoes should preferably be made of breathable materials including canvas, leather or new mesh materials. Plastic and other man-made materials do not allow the foot to breathe and can be quite uncomfortable.
The Insole and the Outer Sole of the Shoe
The insole of kids and toddler shoes should be made of absorbent material to absorb the perspiration from their feet. The outer sole is what provides flexibility, cushioning and traction to the shoe. Avoid outer soles that are very thick and sticky as they tend to grip the floor hard, causing children to lose balance and fall.
The Heel of the Shoe
Avoid buying shoes with heels for your kids. They cause the foot to slide forward and cramp the toes against the shoe, causing potential foot problems in due course of time. Kids and toddler shoes with flat soles are more flexible and comfortable and make it easier for them walk.