Back to School Shoe Shopping

It’s almost that time—back to school! At Texas Foot Specialists, we know that means many parents will be participating in the age-old ritual of buying new shoes to start the new school year. The shoes your child wears can have a big influence on the health of their feet. For that reason, we want to offer the following tips for making this important choice:

Consider foot conditions. If your child has a chronic foot condition such as plantar fasciitis or has sustained a foot or ankle injury in the past, consult our podiatrists, Dr. Bruce Miller or Dr. Gregory Mangum about the best styles to accommodate your child’s particular podiatric issues. High-top sneakers, for example, may benefit a child with weak ankles or previous ankle sprains. The podiatrist may want you to come in to our Sugar Land (281-242-4448), Pasadena (281-991-0600) or Houston (713-664-6677) office to examine your child’s feet to assess their current condition and also see if anything has changed.

Invest in quality. Although your child may be more interested in the brand name, be sure the shoes you choose are well made of high-quality materials. Children’s shoes should have a built-in arch, stiff heel counter, cushioned insole and be flexible in the ball of the foot.

Get a proper fit. It’s best to have your child’s foot professionally measured. Shop for new school shoes towards the end of the day—that’s when feet are at their largest size. Be aware that it is not uncommon for children to have one foot larger than the other. Always buy to fit the larger foot.

Bring the right stuff. Have your child wear the type of sock they will most likely wear with the shoes or sneakers you are buying. If the foot doctor has prescribed a custom orthotic device, it should be worn when trying on shoes.

Take your time. Make sure your child tries on both shoes and spends time walking around the store to determine that they are comfortable. After removing the shoes, inspect your child’s feet for any signs of redness or marks that would indicate friction or pressure on some part of the foot.

If you have more questions about the best shoes for your child’s feet, don’t hesitate to contact us.