1. Measure the feet: To determine the right shoe fit, ensure the feet are professionally measured for length, width, overall fit and shape. When checking the shape of the shoe, check to see there is approximately 1 cm of growing room beyond the longest toe.
2. Look for Heel Support: Look for a firm heel counter to provide additional support. This is the little plastic insert used to reinforce the heel cup of the shoe.
3. Match the shoe style and features for the activity: Whilst formal school shoes are good general purpose shoes, a running shoe or cross-trainer will be better if your child does a lot of physical activity. Lightweight, flexible shoes are ideal for the early years whilst more supportive shoes may be better for junior primary and later school years. Look for buckles, laces or straps to secure the shoe appropriately.
4. Look for Midfoot Support: This will help support the arch and improve stability.
5. Seek advice from a podiatrists if you notice any of the following issues:
a. It is difficult to find shoes to fit your child’s foot shape
b. Your child is experiencing ongoing pain in the feet or legs
c. Excessive wear on the soles of the shoes e.g. heels or ball of the foot
d. You have concerns about the way your child walks e.g. walking on toes, walking pigeon-toed (feet pointing inwards)
e. You have concerns about your child’s foot shape or foot posture- such as flat feet or high arches, clawing of toes, ‘bunions’ (bump at the first joint of the big toe)
f. Your child has skin or nail problems e.g. ingrowing toenails, blisters, corns or callouses from shoes rubbing
Guest post by Lloyd Reed, Podiatrist, Foot Motion.
For more information go to www.ascentfootwear.com.au
