Things to Consider when buying shoes...
*Try to find shoes that will be easy for you to get on and off yet difficult for your child to get off. Go for shoes with Velcro fasteners, slip on or elastic. Laces work well too, but as we know, we usually end up double knotting them.
*Shoes should be made of breatheable materials...ie...sheepskin,top grade leather, canvas, fleece, suade...
*We know barefoot is always the better option, but please remember not always practical.
*A GOOD fit is alway important so that your child will be comfortable. 1/4 - 1/2 inches extra will give them plenty of "wiggle" room. This amount should maximize the life of their shoes.
*Poorly fitting shoes can cause numerous problems throughout life. Shoes that do not fit properly can cause:hammertoes, in grown toe nails, corns, calluses and bunions. Foot problems are usually preventable.
*Shoes should be flexible and do NOT need to be broken in. If that is the case, they are not made well and poorly designed.
*If your child has a wide foot, be sure to focus and ask about shoes made for wide feet or that work well for wide feet. There are alot out there, I can help you!
*Usually shoes should be purchased every 4-5 mos. Children's feet grow rapidly and if they are too tight, the foot will not develop appropriately.