Tantrum-free 'back to school' shopping:
We're now well into the summer holidays – and I hope that however you’re spending this hot summer that you are happy and hydrated.
As mum to two teenagers, I’ve (thankfully) now graduated from back-to-school-shoe-shopping with my girls. But thanks to my years of service as a mother and Podiatrist, I have collated my tips to optimise your visit to the shoe shop – and yes, I do recommend going to a bricks and mortar shop for this job!
Sizing is often inconsistent between brands, with length and width differing between styles of shoes, so it is best to try the shoes on and have them fitted by an expert. In the absence of an expert, simply follow my expert advice, and you can't go too far wrong...
I specialise in children's feet, and I welcome the family to book in and receive bespoke advice for lifelong foot health.
Book your appointment with me online.
As mum to two teenagers, I’ve (thankfully) now graduated from back-to-school-shoe-shopping with my girls. But thanks to my years of service as a mother and Podiatrist, I have collated my tips to optimise your visit to the shoe shop – and yes, I do recommend going to a bricks and mortar shop for this job!
Sizing is often inconsistent between brands, with length and width differing between styles of shoes, so it is best to try the shoes on and have them fitted by an expert. In the absence of an expert, simply follow my expert advice, and you can't go too far wrong...
I specialise in children's feet, and I welcome the family to book in and receive bespoke advice for lifelong foot health.
Book your appointment with me online.
WHEN? Afternoon: as feet spread
and swell during the day, so the afternoon reflects a foot's largest size
which must be comfortable in the shoes you pick. Don't rush, and make sure
your little one isn't tired or cranky, it won't help!
WIDTH: Must be wider than the widest part of the foot (across the toes). They should be able to wiggle their toes easily, so avoid pressure on the big or little toe areas.
STYLE: An adjustable closure is best - so velcro in little shoes, and later on laces. This allows them to accommodate the foot's change in size throughout the day. The shape of the shoe should mimic the shape of the foot, and feet do not taper to a point! The toe box should have plenty of space.
HEEL: Have them sit down, and tug the shoe to check it doesn't slide around. If a shoe doesn't fit right at the heel, the toes will grip for stability, leading to musculoskeletal issues in the long term.
LENGTH: Allow for 12mm of room at the end of the shoe (but no more than 17mm) - to allow growth and flex.
MATERIAL: Natural materials like leather and canvas allow breathability and reduce the risk of odour or athlete's foot. Shoes should be lightweight, with a non-slip or patterned sole to minimise the risk of slipping.
WATCH: Have your child walk around and look for unusual gait and slipping. If your child struggles to do this comfortably while being watched, have them do this at home (but keep your receipt if you need to return them).
RE-CHECK: Children's feet should be checked every 6-8 weeks. On average, feet grow 2 full sizes per year, so regular checks are essential!
WIDTH: Must be wider than the widest part of the foot (across the toes). They should be able to wiggle their toes easily, so avoid pressure on the big or little toe areas.
STYLE: An adjustable closure is best - so velcro in little shoes, and later on laces. This allows them to accommodate the foot's change in size throughout the day. The shape of the shoe should mimic the shape of the foot, and feet do not taper to a point! The toe box should have plenty of space.
HEEL: Have them sit down, and tug the shoe to check it doesn't slide around. If a shoe doesn't fit right at the heel, the toes will grip for stability, leading to musculoskeletal issues in the long term.
LENGTH: Allow for 12mm of room at the end of the shoe (but no more than 17mm) - to allow growth and flex.
MATERIAL: Natural materials like leather and canvas allow breathability and reduce the risk of odour or athlete's foot. Shoes should be lightweight, with a non-slip or patterned sole to minimise the risk of slipping.
WATCH: Have your child walk around and look for unusual gait and slipping. If your child struggles to do this comfortably while being watched, have them do this at home (but keep your receipt if you need to return them).
RE-CHECK: Children's feet should be checked every 6-8 weeks. On average, feet grow 2 full sizes per year, so regular checks are essential!
Posted on 16 August 2025