6 Tips for Healthy Feet PART 2

• Posted on 4 October 2022
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2. Get the right shoe size and fit

Did you know that your child’s feet can grow significantly in six months? So, it’s important to think about growth when buying shoes. But shoes that are too big can cause feet to slide forward, putting extra pressure on toes. Tight shoes can cause blisters, corns, calluses and ingrown nails.

It is important to get shoes that fit both the length and width of your child’s feet. Press down with your thumb on the front of your child’s shoes as well to make sure there’s a comfortable gap (a thumb width) between the toes and the end of the shoe.

A. Choose a breathable fabric like leather or canvas to allow their feet to breathe and prevent fungal infections (see 5).

B. Make sure they have enough support in the soles, heel and toes. Check the sole can bend under the ball of the foot, and that the shoe has a firm heel counter (the part that goes around the back of the heel). Shoes that bend in half or twist won’t offer enough support for your child.

C. School shoes need to hold the foot firmly to stop the foot from slipping and sliding around. So look for shoes with laces, buckles or Velcro.

D. It is also a good idea to check the soles of your child’s old shoes, especially around the heel. Is there any excessive or unusual wear in a certain part of the soles? If so, it is best to see a podiatrist before buying new shoes.

E. Although it’s tempting to buy shoes online, it’s a good idea to take your child with you shoe shopping. Shoes shouldn’t need a ‘break-in’ period and should feel comfortable as soon as your child tries them on.