The following blog article was written for Little Monsters Resale Shop
Advice for Buying Gently Used Footwear
During back-to-school season and throughout the year, one of the most important purchases on any parent’s shopping list should be a pair of proper fitting shoes for their children. Unfortunately, few people understand how important this activity is. In fact, selecting children’s footwear is more important than it is for adults!
For those of us who live in Carson City, NV, you’ll need to plan for chilly winters and hot summers. Consequently, this means you may need to be on the lookout for sturdy boots and sandals. In addition, you’ll need to aquire standard tennis shoes and dress shoes as well. While shopping for footwear may seem like a no-brainer, there are several important factors which should be considered (especially by new, inexperienced parents).
Children’s Feet Change Rapidly With Age
The task of purchasing children’s shoes can often be more important than performing the same activity for adults. This is because young kids are still growing, developing, and often lack full coordination.
It’s important to remember that shoe sizes may change every few months as feet continue to grow. Some kids grow faster than others. Therefore, it’s important to spend the time properly measuring your child’s feet. You may want to measure your child’s feet every time you go in to shop for shoes as changes can occur quickly and often without notice.
Feet Can Swell During the Day
You may not be aware of this, but our feet swell during the day. This is due to the constant effects of gravity drawing blood down to the lowest portions of our bodies.
Because of this, shopping for children’s shoes is best done in the afternoon or evening. If you simply can’t make this happen, don’t sweat it too much. However, it is a factor worth considering if you have the ability to do so.
Footwear That Doesn’t Fit can Hurt Feet
Always measure a child’s feet before buying shoes and watch for signs of irritation. Saving a small amount of money simply isn’t worth harming your child’s feet. This is especially true for babies and toddlers with sensitive toes. Also, remember that some children may not be able to verbalize the tightness or discomfort they may be experiencing.
When dealing with babies and toddlers, you will have to look for signs and indicators including your child refusing to wear their shoes or the child crying when you attempt to put them on. As a rule of thumb, it is recommended that you check your child’s feet for size increases once per week.
Examine the Heels of the Footwear
Children may wear through the heels of their shoes much faster than they outgrow the shoes themselves. Uneven heel wear can indicate a foot problem that should be checked by a podiatrist. In summation, keep on the lookout for signs of irregular wear.
When buying gently used footwear for your child, make sure to check for these signs beforehand so you can ensure your child will be starting out with a quality pair of shoes.
Materials Matter when Selecting Footware
Children are often physically active and require shoes made from a breathable material such as canvas or leather. Quality materials prevent discomfort from poor posture, and ensure shoes don’t get wet and stinky. Checking for vents will ensure their feet are getting good air flow.
Additionally, children’s shoes should have some type of closure, whether it’s laces, Velcro, a locking tab or something of that nature. Backless and slip-on shoes are fine for show and minimal movement. However, it is worth noting that many designs of this nature offer little to no support. Additionally, they can fling off during periods of increased activity.
Shoes should also have flexible, textured soles to help children keep their footing, especially when they’re moving around quickly on various types of terrain.
Always Buy Shoes for the Larger Foot
Just like most parts of the human body, feet are seldom precisely the same size. The best rule of thumb is to buy shoes which fit the larger of the two feet. This way, you can ensure one foot will not be smashed and uncomfortable.
Buy Footwear That Doesn’t Need a “Break-In” Period
Shoes should be comfortable immediately upon wearing them. Make sure to have your children try on shoes with socks or tights if that’s how they’ll be worn on a regular basis. Failing to do so may result in purchasing shoes that do not fit properly, and are uncomfortable/painful. Unless you’re buying a pair of shoes for a later date or growth period, make sure they are comfortable today!
Also please understand that while it can be tempting to buy shoes for small children “to grow into”, shoes that are more than 1 size too large can trip your child and cause problems with foot growth and development. Not only are poorly-fitted shoes uncomfortable, they may also lead to foot deformations, sores and blisters. Better safe than sorry!
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