How to Choose the Best Shoes for Kids
Buying children’s shoes is rarely a once-a-year task. As many parents quickly learn, children’s feet grow quickly and shoe sizes can change every few months. As both a podiatrist and a mother, I know that finding the right shoe can feel overwhelming. There are many styles, brands, and features to consider, and not every shoe fits the same. The most important thing to remember is that poorly fitting shoes can aggravate growing feet and lead to discomfort or foot problems.
Children’s Feet Grow Quickly
Children’s feet change rapidly as they grow. Because of this:
Their shoe size may change several times a year
One foot is often slightly larger than the other
Different brands fit differently
For these reasons, I always recommend bringing your child with you when shoe shopping rather than guessing their size.
A Good Shoe Supports Healthy Development
Children are incredibly active, and their shoes play an important role in protecting their developing feet. Choosing the right shoe can help prevent:
Foot fatigue
Irritation and pressure points
Poor foot mechanics during growth
The goal is a shoe that supports natural movement while still providing stability.
Dr. Stark's 1-2-3 Shoe Test
Step 1: Squeeze heel sides, must stay rigid, no collapse.
Step 2: Bend toe box, flexible but controlled, never floppy or rock-hard.
Step 3: Twist midfoot, zero torsion, like a solid platform.
Wondering what the best shoes are for your kiddo’s favorite sport?
When to Have Your Child’s Feet Evaluated
If your child experiences:
Foot pain
Frequent tripping or instability
Difficulty with certain shoes
Rapid wear patterns on shoes
If you notice any of the above symptoms, please have them evaluated! Proper footwear and early evaluation can often prevent small issues from becoming bigger problems later.
