As shoes can be expensive, most people try to select a pair for practical use as well as for fashion. Adults buy shoes of the best quality they can afford. Still others select a style that flatters their feet. For example, simple styles in dark colors will make their feet look small. Chunky, heavy styles and light colors, on the other hand, will increase their apparent foot size. Small-boned persons can look loaded down by footwear that makes their feet look bigger.
In short, adults choose shoes for a general pleasing effect. When they try on shoes, they study their total appearance in a mirror before making a decision.
Choosing the right shoes for your kids is equally important. Not only is it critical for proper foot development, shoes are essential for kids’ active lifestyle.
Unlike many adults, kids don’t really enjoy shopping for shoes. But it’s important to bring them in shopping and try shoes on since they easily outgrow them.
Finding the shoes that fit is absolutely essential for growing feet. Here are tips on choosing the right shoes for children:
1. It’s time to buy new shoes for kids when they start complaining that they’re uncomfortable. Check their shoes periodically.
2. Look for worn areas, or stressed seams. If sides are bulging or wearing out more quickly than the rest of the shoes, then they may not be wide enough.
3. Toes that bend upward are also a sign of shoes that don’t fit properly. Shoe shopping should always be done later in the afternoon or evening, since feet swell over the course of the day.
4. Look for a store that specializes in children’s footwear, as the staff should be well-versed on how to deal with the reluctant shoe shopper.
5. To get the right fit in kids’ shoes, have your children’s feet measured when buying shoes. Feet should be measured while standing.
6. Always have both feet measured because one is usually larger than the other. When your child is wearing the shoes, there should be about a half inch room between the edge of the shoe toe and the edge of your child’s toes.
7. Never buy shoes that are more than one size too large for your child. Shoes that are too big can cause a child to develop foot problems.
8. Don’t allow for a "breaking in" period or expect shoes to get more comfortable over time – they need to fit and feel good now.
9. When choosing the shoes for kids, select those that have lace, velcro or some other fastening system.
10. Avoid backless or slip-on shoes for kids. Look for shoes made from breathable materials, such as canvas or leather.
Finally, trust only children shoe brands that have been known for their quality. Imitation shoes are not only made of sub-standard materials but may also cause discomfort and injury.