Babies’ feet don’t have bones‚ just soft cartilage which can easily be pushed out of shape by badly fitting shoes. Even socks that are too tight can damage their feet at this delicate stage.
Even as they grow, it’s important to look after their feet and choose the right shoes as feet don’t fully develop until around 18 years of age.
We’re here to help support you and your child - whatever their age - with helpful advice, tips, and of course shoes!
Once children start walking there’s no stopping them. Whether tearing around the house, playing in the garden or commuting to school and friends’ houses, chances are they’re up on their feet most of the day.
• Never put your child in shoes that are too big or too small, and make sure that all footwear including trainers are properly fitted.
• Don't hand shoes down from one child to another - no two pairs of feet are ever the same shape or size.
• Cut toenails straight across and not too short - don't curve them‚ because this can encourage in-growing toenails.
• Get socks that fit - if they're too tight they will cramp the foot and can even deform it in very young children, if they're too big they can bunch up and cause blisters.
• Choose shoes with natural linings such as leather and socks with a high natural fibre content to allow feet to breathe.
• To keep shoes looking good‚ clean them regularly and apply a good quality polish to keep the leather soft and supple.
• Don't dry wet shoes near direct heat - let them dry out naturally in a warm airy place. It might help to fill them with newspaper for a short time to absorb moisture and help them to keep their shape.
• Try to get shoes that are designed for the purpose your child will use them for, otherwise they may not offer the support or wear you're expecting.
• Getting children to use laces and buckles is an uphill struggle‚ but don't let them force their feet in and out of shoes without unfastening them. Sometimes riptape fastenings can make life easier for everyone, and they make older children feel grown up because they are putting on their own shoes.