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Comprehensive Guide to Selecting the Best Shoes for Your Child’s Foot Health.

Written by Dr. Ankush Madan

Ensuring your child wears the right shoes is crucial for their overall foot health and development. At Best Foot Forward Podiatry in Malvern, Melbourne, we specialize in providing expert guidance on choosing the perfect footwear for your little ones. Here’s an in-depth guide to help you make informed decisions.
Understanding the Basics:
The world of children’s shoes can be overwhelming, but fret not. Our Malvern podiatrists emphasize the significance of prioritizing fit over brand names. Contrary to popular belief, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. What matters most is understanding the key features that contribute to a shoe’s quality.

Key Shoe Features for Kids:
Begin with the basics: the fit. Our professionals stress the importance of proper fitting, as shoes that are too small can lead to various issues, including heel pain and discomfort. Conversely, shoes that are too large can result in instability and potential tripping hazards. Follow the general rule of a thumbs-width clearance at the end of the longest toe to ensure adequate room for growth. When selecting shoes for your child, consider consulting a foot doctor near you for expert guidance on proper fitting and suitable options. For more information contact or visit Best Podiatrist near you.

Choosing the Right Last and Fastening Mechanism:

The last or the sole, of the shoe, plays a crucial role in providing support. Opt for a relatively straight last, mirroring the natural shape of children’s feet. When it comes to fastening mechanisms, shoe laces are ideal, but for younger children, velcro or buckles offer convenience and stability. Sandals, if chosen, should have two adjustable straps for optimal comfort and support.
Kids shoe
Flexibility, Support, and Torsion:

A child’s shoe should only bend where the foot naturally does, specifically through the ball of the forefoot. Excessive flexibility indicates insufficient support. A firm heel counter is essential to maintain stability, preventing midfoot and ankle sprains. Limiting torsion, or twisting motion, is crucial to avoid strain and injury.

Materials Matter:

The upper material of the shoe serves to protect the foot. Leather is recommended for its durability and breathability, while synthetic materials should be avoided due to increased sweating. Choose the material based on your child’s activity level and wear patterns.

Heel Height and Base:

The heel height should ideally range from 10 to 25mm. A broader heel base enhances stability, whereas a narrow base may compromise balance. These factors are especially important as they impact the distribution of forces on the foot and overall posture.

Expert Advice and Assistance:
At Best Foot Forward Podiatry, we understand that every child is unique. For personalized advice on children’s footwear and concerns like heel pain, calluses, and ingrown toenails , contact us at bestfootforward.net.au.

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03 8682 8589 info@bestfootforward.net.au Book Online
A Helpful Checklist to Ensure You Choose the Right Shoe:
  • Did you bring your child’s uniform-issued school socks or stockings to ensure the shoes fit well with them? – YES or NO?
  • Have your child’s feet been measured correctly for length and width? E.g. at a store that offers trained assistants or by a Podiatrist? – YES or NO?
  • Can your child wiggle their toes freely in the shoes, both up and down and side to side? – YES or NO?
  • Do the shoes match their activities and the season? E.g. breathable material such as leather for school shoes and cotton or nylon for sports shoes. – YES or NO?
  • Is there at least 10mm of growing room (no more!) between the end of their longest toe and the end of the shoe? – YES or NO?
  • Do the shoes have laces, a buckle or Velcro? This allows the shoe to be adjusted to meet the growing needs of your child. Avoid elastic shoes and slip-ons as these don’t support developing young feet. – YES or NO?

If you answered ‘YES’ to these questions, congratulations! You’re on the right track to making the perfect purchase for your child’s footwear needs.

In conclusion, finding the ideal shoes for your child involves considering various factors. By following these guidelines from the experts at Best Foot Forward Podiatry, you can make well-informed decisions that prioritize your child’s foot health and overall well-being. Schedule an Appointment with us today and take the first step towards ensuring your child walks comfortably and confidently on the path of healthy foot development.

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