Across the Twin Cities, the end of summer means one thing for parents: the back-to-school rush. While you’re checking off lists for notebooks and backpacks, don’t overlook one of the most important items for your child’s health and comfort—their shoes. The right pair of shoes does more than complete an outfit; it supports developing feet, prevents injuries, and ensures your child can run, jump, and play without pain.
A poorly fitting shoe can lead to a surprising number of problems, including blisters, ingrown toenails, and even changes to their gait that can cause future foot, ankle, or knee issues. As your child’s feet will spend hundreds of hours in these shoes, making a smart choice now is an investment in their long-term health.
Before you head to the Mall of America or your local shoe store, here is a simple fitting guide to ensure you find the perfect pair.
5 Essential Tips for a Perfect Fit
- Measure Every Time. Don’t assume you know your child’s size, even if you just bought shoes a few months ago. Kids’ feet can grow half a size or more in a matter of months. Have both feet measured by a professional, as one is often slightly larger than the other. Always fit the shoe to the larger foot.
- Shop in the Afternoon. Feet naturally swell throughout the day. Shopping for shoes in the late afternoon or evening will ensure you get a size that will be comfortable from morning bell to evening activities.
- The Rule of Thumb. Once the shoe is on, there should be about a half-inch of space—or a thumb’s width—between the end of your child’s longest toe and the tip of the shoe. The shoe should be wide enough to not squeeze the sides of their feet.
- Check the Heel. Have your child walk around the store. The heel of the shoe should not slip up and down excessively. A snug, but not tight, heel provides crucial stability.
- Bring Their Socks. Have your child wear the type of socks they will most commonly use with the shoes. This ensures the fit is accurate and not thrown off by socks that are too thick or thin.
It’s Not Just About the Fit, But the Function
Beyond a perfect fit, consider the shoe’s purpose. A flimsy, flat-soled fashion sneaker won’t provide the support needed for a physical education class. Look for shoes with good arch support, a cushioned sole, and a sturdy heel counter. For a list of footwear that has been found to be beneficial for foot health, the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) provides a Seal of Acceptance list that includes many children’s brands.
When to See a Podiatrist
Most of the time, a well-fitting, supportive shoe is all a child needs. However, if your child frequently complains of foot pain, seems to be tripping more than usual, has noticeably flat feet, or develops recurring issues like ingrown toenails, it’s wise to schedule a consultation. Conditions like pediatric flatfoot are common and often easily managed with the right guidance. You can learn more about this condition from the experts at the Mayo Clinic.
Don’t let foot pain hold your child back this school year. If you have any concerns about your child’s foot health or finding the right footwear, the team at Twin Cities Foot & Ankle Clinic is here to help. Schedule your back-to-school appointment today and let us help your child put their best foot forward!