As much as for men and women, even the kids are spoilt for choices in sneakers. There are so many different shoes and brands available, it can be challenging to figure out the best sneaker for kids.
Your kid will grow up to about the age of 18 and so does their feet. Here’s an estimate of how fast the child’s feet grow:
- 2 months until the child becomes one
- 3 months for kids aged between 1 to 2.5 years
- 4 months for kids between 2.5 to 4 years of age
- 6 months between 4 and 6 years
- Every year between 6 and 18 years
Now, do you see the reason why shoes have to fit properly for your kid? A bad-fitting shoe may be uncomfortable or unhealthy for your child. If you are planning to buy sneakers for kids online, you cannot try them on the child before buying them. But you can always measure your child’s feet before you decide to buy from the best online sneaker store. If you feel that the sneaker is not fitting the child’s feet properly, you have the option to exchange it for a better one.
Online sneaker for kids buying tips
Your child needs the support of their foot as they are constantly on their toes standing, running, or walking. They are restless and curious to explore. Kids usually cannot express why the shoe doesn’t fit them properly. They become fussy or refuse to wear it. So, read this guide before you decide to buy top-selling sneakers for your kid.
1. Getting the correct measurement
We agree, getting the right measurement of your kid’s foot can be a daunting task. You can print a digital sizing guide to measure the length and width of your kid’s foot. You can also use a ruler or tape. Make your child stand straight and tall on a piece of paper. Trace your child’s foot on the paper and measure the tracing length from heel to the longest toe. Once you know the measurement, check the size chart of your favorite sneaker for kids.
Note: Look for sneakers in a ½ size or full size larger than the foot measure. This allows room for growth as well as lets the feet breathe.
2. Measure the foot width too
Width is as important as the length of the feet. A child may have long slender feet or wide feet. Understand this and then flip through the sneaker product photos online to get an idea if the shoe will fit your kid. Some sneakers may be shaped long and narrow while some may be wider than the rest. The general rule is the shape of the shoe has to reflect the shape of your child’s foot.
3. Choosing Sneakers for kids online
Once you have an idea of the length and width of your kid’s foot, it is now time to surf through the products on the best online sneaker store. We emphasize the point to add ½ or 1 full size to your child’s foot measurement size. Usually, the product page features at least 3 images of the sneakers with exact specifications and features. You can study them or collect information from other resources online. Buy only when you are sure of the sneaker quality.
- Consider slip-on styles only for older kids. For the younger ones, make sure that the sneakers have a buckle, rip tape fastenings, or laces that allow for precise adjustment
- Select a sneaker with a breathable lining to allow perspiration to escape through the surface of the shoe. This will keep your child’s feet fresh, dry, and healthy
- Avoid buying sneakers that have a swung or pointed design
- The insoles should be cushioned for comfort
- The sole of the shoe should be flexible and should bend without effort
Do not get tempted to buy bigger shoes. A shoe too big in size may not support or protect the foot resulting in slips, trips, and falls
4. Trying the new sneakers
Okay, that you have received your favorite pair of sneaker for kids, it is time to try it. But first, feel around the inside of the shoe for irregularities in stitching, glue, or stapling. Make sure the shoe is not too heavy. Watch your child walk in the new sneakers. Make them stand and press between the longest toe and the front of the shoe. There should at least be a half-inch gap here. If they are on tippytoes or they aren’t walking properly, something’s wrong and it may be hurting them. Watch for redness on the feet. If your kid wants to remove the shoes, it is a sign that it doesn’t fit them properly.
If your kid is jumping around happily with their new sneakers, it is time for you to do some happy dances. You have accomplished the task of shopping for the best sneaker for kids online!