NEW SCHOOL SHOES! How to Decide What is Best for your Child

School Shoe Guide 2023

Getting the perfect fit for your child is important when buying school shoes, as it promotes the healthy development of their feet and allows them to stay happy and active during their school day.

Put your child’s best foot forward in the new year with these school shoe fitting tips.

Just remember the following 3 F’s Fit, Feel & Function when buying your child's school shoes.

1. FIT

  • Make sure that there is a thumb width (approx. 1cm) between the longest toe (usually the big toe or 2nd toe) and the end of the shoe. This should be tested when standing to allow for natural toe splay. 

  • Ensure there is enough wiggle room in their shoes, your child should be able to wiggle their toes without restriction.

  • Make sure that the shoe is shaped like your child’s foot with a wide toe box.

  • Check the fit of your child's shoe approx. every 3 months, as children's feet grow on average 1-2 sizes per year.   

  •  Remove the insole from the shoe and get them to stand on it and see if there is any overhang.

2. FEEL

  • A school shoe should feel comfortable, light and cushioned.

  • Ask your child which shoe feels most comfortable, they should feel comfy straight away and should not require a ‘wear-in’ period.

  • Avoid buying school shoes that are too heavy, stiff or bulky. Your child's foot needs to grow naturally and not be restricted in any way. Our kids need sensory feedback from their feet to their brains to improve balance and coordination. This connection can be blocked with thick, bulky or hard soled shoes.

3. FUNCTION

  • Watch them walk in their school shoes, they should look natural and their gait should not dramatically change. 

  • To keep them hopping, skipping and jumping all day match the shoe to your child’s foot function and their activities. 

Recommended Footwear

It can be difficult to recommend the most appropriate footwear without assessing your child's feet but the following options will help give you a guide.

  • New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi

  • Nike Star Runner

  • Asics Contend

  • Bobux Leather School Shoes

  • Ascent Trista

  • Skobi Page

Depending on your School's uniform requirements, I tend to recommend wearing a lightweight black runner as these shoes usually provide the most cushion and comfort for your active child.

If you are unsure please see a Podiatrist to assess the function of your child’s foot and recommend the most suitable shoe for their activity.

Donna Limoran