Researching which school shoes to buy can leave parents feeling like they’re failing at comprehension. Why are some expensive? Are the cheaper ones OK? Buckles, Velcro or laces? And why-in-the name-of-all-that’s-holy do my kids wear them out so quickly. It’s an annual dilemma for parents of school-aged kids (and sometimes a bi-annual dilemma if the kids have a growth spurt). In the January back-to-school frenzy, you’ll find ‘school-suitable’ shoes from as little as #4,000 to more than #10,000. So how do you know which ones to choose?.
Reasons For A Good School Shoe For Children
The bones in young children’s feet don’t fuse together until puberty. Kids’ feet can lack muscle strength and be prone to hypermobility, so firm, supportive shoes help protect their feet while they’re growing. A good school shoe provide stable home for immature bones. Without that support, children are in danger of developing flat feet, sore knees, shin splints and even back pain. A good shoe that fits properly is important.
Things To Look Out For in A School Shoe
The best kind of school shoe should be supportive, durable and comfortable with a good gripping sole. Here’s what you should look for:
Flexibility in the front. Pick up the shoe and try to bend it by pushing the toe upwards. A good shoe will bend at the ball of the foot but no further. This helps your child push off with their toes while keeping the back half of their foot stable and secure.
A good school shoe will have a small heel. While this may sound counterintuitive, a low heel keeps your child’s foot in a neutral position. An entirely flat school shoe can cause your child’s toes to claw when walking.
The Sock liner or insole should be soft comfortable and made of an absorbant fabric to reduce sweating. You should be able to remove it easily, in case you need to replace it with an orthotic.
A school shoe should not be heavy. A heavy shoe can mean muscle pain and foot aches, especially for little people.
A leather upper lasts longer and allow your child’s feet to breathe.
