We’re here to provide some TOP TIPS to help find the perfect school shoe fit!
Have you checked whether last year’s pair of school shoes are worn to smithereens?! Will they even fit?!
Preparation:
- It may go without saying…but take your child with you when shopping for new school shoes!
- Make sure you pack your child’s school socks and orthotics (if they wear them).
- Shopping at the end of the day allows the feet to be fitted when they are at their largest. The feet naturally swell throughout the day.
Ensure The Best Fit:
- We all know just how quickly children’s feet can grow! Ensure you have your child’s feet measured each time you go shoe shopping.
- It’s also important to have EACH foot measured for length and width as there is always one foot bigger than the other.
- Always ensure to buy the shoes to fit the bigger foot.
- The widest part of the foot should correspond with the widest part of the shoe. Also check the material on the top part of the shoe is comfortable, it shouldn’t be too tight or loose. It should be “Just right” like in Goldilocks and the Three Bears…
- The fastening mechanism (shoe laces, velcro strap, buckle) should hold the heel firm, yet comfortable in the back of the shoe. A secure fastening mechanism will prevent the toes from sliding forward into the front end of their shoes and mitigate common issues such as toes curling/clawing and skin and nail changes such as blood blisters or ingrown nails.
- The back of the shoe (heel counter) should be strong and stable. Check it doesn’t look like there’s too much movement up and down or slipping of the heels when walking in the shoes - to avoid blisters.
- Flexibility in the toe area of the shoe. This allows the toes to bend when propelling forward.
Consider “The Rule of Thumb”:
Check the space in between your child’s longest toe and the end of the shoe. Keep in mind, this may not be the big toe! Ideally keeping 1.5cm, or the width of a thumb space at the end of the shoe.
Lastly, test performance!
Can your child put them on themselves? Can they walk, run, jump or play in them comfortably?
Once you’ve purchased new school shoes, is there anything else you should be aware of?
YES!
Note any changes in your child’s feet after wearing the new school shoes. Similarly, watch if their walk (gait) changes.
See your Podiatrist if you notice any of the following:
- Redness, irritation, blisters, or hardened skin
- Pain or bruising around the toes
- Leg and/or foot pain. Your child may or may not speak up if they’re experiencing discomfort, so keep an eye out for any limping or obvious changes in gait
- Trips or falls, any more than usual
- Withdrawal from normal activities
Questions? Concerns?
Call us on: 6331 4885 for an appointment, or book online:
https://balancefootstudio.com.au/make-a-booking/
Our Podiatrists are here to discuss any questions or concerns and hopefully help you find the perfect school shoe fit and avoid any headaches!