It feels like summer has just begun, but if you walk into any department store or Target, you’ll notice that it’s already Back To School season (and the selves are already really picked over!). You might be crossing off pencils, highlighters, backpacks and other traditional school supplies off your list, but don’t overlook one crucial item your child may need this school year – a supportive pair of shoes! Below we share some tips for picking out the right shoes for your child’s return to the classroom.
Back To School Shoe Shopping
Helping your child into the right pair of shoes this school year may not be as easy as in year’s past, especially if they are getting older and have stronger opinions on fashion or footwear. You don’t need to force them into any shoe they don’t want, but don’t be afraid to explain some of the things they should keep in mind when picking out shoes they’ll be wearing regularly to school. Those things include:
Function Over Fashion – Don’t get us wrong, we understand that fashion can seem like everything to kids and teenagers, but you need to be at least somewhat mindful of how the shoe will function in the activities your child will throw at them each day. In fact, choosing function over fashion is a great way to protect their feet this year. Kids can put a lot of steps on their feet each day at school, so make sure the shoe they choose can handle these steps with ease.
Comfort – The shoe should be tough enough to handle the stress you throw at it but also designed in such a way that it comforts and supports your foot. If your foot is comfortable, it’s not being overburdened by stress or pressure, both of which can contribute to foot pain and injuries.
Get The Right Fit – Have a plan in place to ensure your child chooses a shoe that actually fits their foot. Whether that means being professionally fitted in store or ordering a size 10.5 and 11 online and returning the option that doesn’t quite fit, make sure that your child’s foot is in a shoe that fits. Shoes that are too tight can contribute to ingrown toenails, hammertoes and blisters, while shoes that are too loose can fail to provide ankle support and lead to sprains or even fractures.
Account For Gym Class Or Sports – Finally, make sure that your child has the right shoes if they will be doing any significant physical activity during gym class or an after school sport. Athletic shoes will provide more support to the ankle joint and tread for running on a gym floor, and cleats or sport-specific shoes will help to protect your child’s feet from the rigors of that sport. Follow the same rules above when picking out athletic shoes – get the right fit and make sure the shoe is both comfortable and supportive.