How to buy baby shoes? It's child's play!

From crawling to the first step ...

The purchase of the first shoes is an exciting event for the parents of a child! However, before you start thinking about styles and colors, you need to know what features to look for when buying footwear for your child. 

In our guide, you will find many effective tips that will help you choose children's shoes. Let's get started!

What to look for when buying baby shoes?

The right children's shoes provide the right amount of space. Thanks to this, they allow the free, fully natural development of small feet. Poorly fitting footwear causes flat feet and other foot problems later in life.

There are several elements that you should pay special attention to when choosing shoes for your child. First, shoes should be designed specifically for children's feet. Moreover, footwear should have specially designed soles and a toe cap. The adjustable clasp is just as important. Read on and see what other aspects are crucial.

Flexible, non-slip soles

Soles in children's shoes should be flexible. Thanks to this, the movement of the foot will not be limited and will be able to run naturally, and the child's foot will develop properly. 

Are you wondering how to check if the soles are flexible enough? It's easy! Try to fold the shoe in half. If you've managed to combine the heel and toe box, you're on your way to finding the perfect shoe for your little one.

Moreover, choose shoes with non-slip soles. This way you will prevent many falls.

Wide, round toe

The toes of children's shoes should not be narrow. Choose footwear with a wide, rounded toe that will provide adequate space for your child's toes. This will affect not only the proper development of the feet, but also maintain balance while exploring the world. 

Bear in mind that pointed toes can harm your baby's delicate feet, so avoid them like fire.

Adjustable clasp

An adjustable clasp is the key to success if you want to ensure your child has a precise fit of the shoes. For this reason, give up slip-on and zip-up shoes. Instead, opt for lace-up models or Velcro-fastened shoes. 

Velcro fasteners will not only keep the foot in place and prevent the heel from slipping, but also make dressing your child for a walk easy.

Light weight

Children's shoes should not be too heavy. After all, the little ones are just building their strength and endurance. Don't let chunky shoes stop your child from exploring the world.

Breathable materials

Children's feet sweat intensely. If you want to stay dry and healthy no matter how active your child is, choose footwear made of breathable materials. This way, sweat will be transported efficiently across the shoe surface and your feet will not rub.

Avoid synthetic uppers. Instead, choose leather, canvas or cotton shoes that will perfectly adapt to your toddler's feet.

How to adjust the size of shoes for a child?

Shoes that are too large are unstable and make walking difficult. Too small ones, on the other hand, restrict the foot and cause pain. Are you wondering how to check if your children's shoes are the right size? We rush to help!

First, make sure the shoe has enough space around the toes. To do this, press your thumb against the front of the shoe. If the distance between the longest toe and the tip of the shoe is similar to the width of your thumb, most likely your child's toes will have enough space. 

Then check the heel for excessive slack. Use your little finger to make sure your child's feet won't slip out of their shoes. Slide it along the heel to the first ankle. If the entire toe fits, the shoe is way too big. If you manage to slide the shorter part of the finger in - then it is too tight. 

The last step is walking in new shoes. Look closely at your child, paying particular attention to whether the shoe fits snugly and feels comfortable. If your toddler is already talking, there's nothing to prevent him from asking for his opinion.

Give up used shoes

Children's feet grow surprisingly fast. While the use of second-hand shoes seems to be an attractive option in terms of price, better give it up. Children's shoes adjust to the shape of their feet. You certainly prefer your child's feet to develop naturally rather than rely on a pre-formed shape.

Choose shoes from well-known brands that are available in trusted stores. We are sure that with our advice, the purchase of the right children's shoes will be child's play.