Buying Shoes For Your Kids
Babies and toddlers are encouraged to walk barefoot to allow their feet to develop naturally. So when is it time for your little one to start wearing shoes? The general rule is: when he or she has started to take their first steps and is walking outside, it’s time to get their little feet into shoes.
What To Consider
- Buy age appropriate materials and designs to allow his feet to grow healthily.
- Opt for shoes that are made from breathable material, have padded lining to support the arch and provide good arch and heel support. Walkmates Gelly Flex insoles provide extra cushioning, better shock absorption and increased flexibility to protect and pamper little feet. They have a silicone-based insole, an extremely flexible moulded outsole and the midsole is a honey-combed designed silicone pad that provides cushioning and comfort.
- Velcro straps are great for little ones for ‘easy on off'.
- Kids’ feet need maximum mobility and freedom of movement. Walkmates Flexi Mates’ sock-sewn construction allows for natural foot movement and better flexing of the sole. The innersole is replaced with a material that’s more flexible and strong enough to offer durability.
- Shoes made with non-slip or grip soles are essential for when toddlers starts walking.
- Make sure the shoes are wide enough for her feet to rest flat with at least 1 finger space in front of the big toe and some wiggle room at the back.
- Go for closed-toe shoes for younger ones (Walkmates Flexi Mates) and open-toe shoes (Walkmates Gelly Flex) for the older kids.
- It’s a good idea to take a pair of socks along with you when shopping for shoes with your little ones – shoe sizes and fit varies from style to style