A+ Tips for School Shoe Shopping

At Texas Foot Specialists we know that the summer is flying by, and families are starting to think about what they need for going back to school. New shoes are likely on everyone’s list because children’s feet grow so quickly. Buying good-quality shoes that fit your child’s feet properly is one of the best ways to ensure good podiatric health. Before you head out to shop, consider these tips.

• Shop in person—not online. The most accurate way to assess how well a pair of shoes fits is by trying them on and walking around in them. When you purchase shoes online, you also can’t compare how one pair feels versus another.

• Use shoe size as a starting point. It’s a good idea to get your child’s feet professionally measured but also keep in mind that sizing may vary by manufacturer. Ultimately, a comfortable fit should be the determining factor.

• Go late in the day. Schedule your shoe buying for later in the afternoon or evening. Feet are at their largest at the end of the day and this will guarantee that shoes won’t feel tight after you purchase them.

• Wear the right socks. The socks that your child tries on their shoes with should be the same type and thickness as the kind they will wear with the shoes.

• Don’t pass shoes on. While hand-me-downs from siblings may seem like a money-saver, it can harm young feet. Shoes mold to the foot of the person wearing them. Used shoes will already have the imprint of the previous owner and will be uncomfortable and even detrimental to your child’s foot health.

·        Consult the podiatrist. If your child has any special gait injuries or chronic foot problems, or if they recently injured a foot or ankle, it’s smart to make an appointment at our Sugar Land (281-242-4448), Pasadena (281-991-0600) or Houston (713-664-6677) office for a checkup. Our podiatrists, Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum, will physically examine your child’s feet and make recommendations about shoe styles that will best suit them.