The first question we should tackle is "why" is the correct fit important in a child's footwear. Some of the top reasons experts agree on is because the correct fit will:
- Allow the foot to expand in all the right areas
- Provide support where needed
- Stimulate the proper development of the child's gait
- Build confidence with no unnecessary movement of the foot
Signs to look for when a shoe fits correctly:
- Secure heel placement, with little movement
- Ample room in the toe box with room for toes to expand (When feeling the toe box and their toes there should be no more room than half a thumb)
- Height of shoe sits comfortably around the child's foot
- The shoe flexes in the correct places with the toes
How to accurately measure a child's foot:
- The best option is to use the "Brannock" device to measure a child's foot including their length and width
- This is best accomplished during a "thermal" fitting, which is generally when the child has already had a busy day and the foot is completely distended.
- The child should be standing and bare foot when being measured
- When a child is not old enough to stand, using a flexible and soft measuring tape is appropriate. Measuring from the heel to the longest toe.
What size should you purchase:
- You should always start with the size they measure, especially with quality makes of shoes
- Encourage try ons to look for evidence that it fits well as indicated above.
Should you have any questions and or wish to schedule a consultation with one of our experts, please do not hesitate to contact us at [email protected]