Kids footwear can be a challenge to buy. They grow fast, and toddlers can’t sit still for a shoe fitting. Look for a comfortable fit and sturdy outer soles when shopping for kids footwear. The best shoes will also help strengthen your kids’ feet and keep them healthy as they play.
Breathable
Breathable kids shoes can help prevent foot fungus (which thrives in warm, sweaty environments inside non-breathable shoes), keep kids feet cool and comfortable, and prevent blisters. They can also reduce the discomfort caused by excessive sweating, which is very common in children.
Breathable shoes also come in a wide range of styles and can be worn by kids of all ages, from infants to pre-teens. These shoes are often made from natural leather, suede, cotton, or artificial fabrics such as nylon, polyester, and microfibres. Many kids shoe companies use a unique process known as Moisture Vapour Control to make their shoes breathable. The process allows the fabric to have too small pores for water molecules to pass through but large enough for steam to escape, creating a dry, non-humid environment inside the shoe.
Kids shoes must be made from high-quality materials to ensure the utmost comfort for kids’ feet. These shoes should be lightweight, breathable and flexible to fit the way young feet move. They should also be designed to support the growth of children’s feet to have plenty of space for air and movement. Using these materials will ensure that your kids’ shoes last longer and are more comfortable and durable.
If your child is a budding athlete who clocks up a few runs each week, consider the Saucony Kids version of their neutral adult running shoe, which features bouncy EVA cushioning to absorb shock and support growing bones. The boots are also lightweight, breathable and seamless to reduce the risk of rubbing and blisters.
Another option for active kids is the Teva Hurricane Drift, which offers a fully waterproof design with a grippy rubber sole and easy-to-use Velcro closures suitable for kids of all ages. The shoe is incredibly lightweight, making it ideal for kids who love hiking, climbing, and exploring the great outdoors.
The APMA recommends brands such as Pediped, Softstar and Stride Rite for lightweight and durable footwear. These shoes are made from natural, breathable materials, such as leather and natural latex, allowing the feet to breathe while providing good support. In addition, these shoes are available in a wide range of colours and styles to suit any kid’s taste. They also feature a variety of adornments, such as kibbitz, that can be pushed through the holes to add a bit of fun to your kids footwear.
Waterproof
The best waterproof kids footwear can keep your child’s feet warm and dry in all conditions. This is important because fungi and bacteria love to grow in dark, wet places such as shoes. If these organisms get into a cut on your child’s foot, it can lead to a severe infection.
Waterproofing your kids’ shoes can be a simple and inexpensive project lasting for years. Several products on the market can be applied to leather shoes to make them fully waterproof. If you choose to use one of these products, it is essential to follow the instructions carefully. Most of these products will induce colour discolouration, so they should only be used on black or brown shoes.
If your children have a pair of canvas shoes, you can also waterproof them with some beeswax. This method is inexpensive and works well for most fabrics except cotton or linen. Use a colourless candle if you use this method because dyed wax might stain the shoe.
Easy to put on
Whether your kid is taking their first steps or has outgrown their last pair of shoes, choosing footwear that is easy to put on and take off is essential. Kids’ feet are constantly growing, and shoes that are too small can cause blisters and other discomforts. To make sure your child’s shoe is a good fit:
- Have them stand up and try them on.
- Press down with your thumb and ensure a comfortable space (about a thumb width) between the back of the heel and the shoe’s heel.
- Check the front of the shoe to ensure enough room for their longest toe and that they can wiggle their toes comfortably.
Regarding kids footwear require breathable and flexible soft materials. It’s best to avoid plastic or leather shoes, as they don’t allow air to pass through. The material should also be durable and sturdy yet light enough to move with your child’s foot as they walk and play.