As parents and children begin the annual hunt for winter boots or dress shoes, shopping for healthy shoes should top the “must-buy” list for more important reasons than just a fashionable new look. Well-fitting shoes not only reduce the incidence of foot and ankle injuries in kids, but also
encourage physical activity, helping to decrease the likelihood of childhood obesity. If your child’s feet hurt, he or she will be far less likely to participate in
outdoor sports and other activities that keep him or her moving and physically fit. With childhood obesity considered an epidemic today, it is vital that
parents take just a few moments during this busy shopping season to select a shoe that provides adequate support and fi ts properly. It is one of the easiest ways to keep your child pain-free and healthy.
Smart and safe shopping tips
Shopping for healthy shoes, however, can be a daunting task without knowing what to look for—but the following tips can make your purchases easy, smart, and safe: Before buying a shoe, perform the “1,2,3 Test.” First, squeeze the back of a shoe’s heel and ensure that it does not collapse. Second, grab the front (toe box) of the shoe and make sure that the shoe bends where the child’s toes would naturally bend in the shoe. Third, grab the shoe at both ends and try to gently twist. Shoes should never twist in the middle and should be rigid. If a shoe fails any of these three steps, don’t buy it.
Step alive
Purchase shoes that are on the ‘Step Alive Shoes’ top shoe recommendation list! Many products, including select children’s footwear models made by Pediped, Reebok, and New Balance are included on the list. Also, look for the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance
for demonstrating proper foot health when you buy your children’s next pair of shoes. Look for the APMA Seal on product packaging or a manufacturer’s
website. Never hand down footwear. Sharing shoes can spread and encourage the growth of fungus and bacteria such as athlete’s foot, and regardless of shoe size, shoes can fi t every child differently.
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Have a child’s foot professionally measured regularly. At Step Alive Shoes, within the Advanced Foot care Clinic, we will be happy to professionally measure a child’s foot. This can be done during your children’s foot health check-up to ensure their shoes are the proper fi t. Also, measure for proper length from toes to the tip of shoes to prevent irritation and injury. No “break-in” period required. Have you ever heard the old adage, “Your shoes will need time to soften and conform to your foot.” Not true! Although properly fi tting shoes will defi nitely support your feet and feel different, they should be comfortable to wear immediately and should not require a break-in period for comfort. The following tips will ensure your children’s shoes will last throughout the seasons.
