- January is a busy time for parents as they prepare their children for the new school year. To make the process easier, here is a guide to choosing the right school shoes—an essential investment in your child’s foot health.
Did You Know?
- On average, children spend 1,200 hours in their school shoes each year.
- A quarter of the bones in our bodies are in our feet.
- At six months, a baby’s feet are mostly cartilage, with the last foot bone forming around age three and full development occurring by age 18.
- The school years are critical for ensuring optimal shoe fit and function.
Does My Child Need to See a Podiatrist Before Buying Shoes?
Consider these questions:
- Does your child wear out shoe soles unevenly, with the heel counter leaning significantly or the area around the little toe worn out?
- Are the shoes wearing out quickly or excessively?
- Does your child complain of foot or leg pain, or frequently ask to be carried?
- Does your child have corns, calluses, or ingrown toenails?
- Does your child often trip, fall, or display clumsy behaviour?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, book a consultation with Anna at (08) 8210 9410 or click here to book online before purchasing new shoes.
Shoe Shopping Checklist
Bring Uniform-Issued Socks or Stockings Ensure an accurate fit by using the socks or stockings your child will be required to wear with their uniform.
Determine the Shoe’s Purpose Consider the activities your child will perform in the shoes. Sports shoes require different soles compared to classic school shoes.
Measure Feet Properly
Have your child’s feet measured while standing. Ensure:
- The shoe width accommodates the large and small toes without rubbing.
- There is a 1 cm gap (approximately a thumbnail’s width) between the end of the largest toe and the shoe.
- Toes can wiggle freely in the toe box.
- The arch and heel counter provide firm support.
- Ideally have their feet measured every 6 months
Opt for Half Sizes if Needed
- Quality shoe stores offer half sizes. Avoid using additional insoles to adjust the fit, as this can compromise shoe design. If your child uses orthotics, they may need a larger size to accommodate them. When in doubt, consult your podiatrist.
Check Fastening Options
- For younger children who struggle with laces, many brands offer Velcro options up to size 6 (10-12 years old).
- Richard at Ideal Shoe Repairs, 174 Hutt St, Adelaide, can convert lace-up shoes to Velcro if needed.
Understand Fit Guarantees
- Be aware that most 30-day fit guarantees apply only if the shoes are worn once or twice.
For additional questions or personalised advice, contact East Adelaide Podiatry. We’re here to help make back-to-school shoe shopping stress-free!