by Rick McKnight

Is it better for my toddler to be barefoot or to wear shoes?
Research shows that when it comes to walking, barefoot is best. However, little feet need protection and being barefoot is not always safe and practical. We think that when your child begins to hang on to the edge of the sofa and “cruise,” that’s the time to have them fitted in a pair of lasted flexible-soled walking shoes.

What type of shoes should I buy for him?
Go for an all leather shoe. Children’s feet sweat about twice that of adult’s feet and leather helps “wick” the perspiration away from the foot. Look for a padded collar and expanded toe box for a better fit. Flex grooves in the sole and a cradled footbed mimic the natural motion a baby needs to become a walker. A contoured “landing pad” provides stability and traction and a shoe with a soft rubber center distributes pressure throughout the foot. Almost all pediatricians recommend a flexible soled walking shoe rather than the hard-bottomed shoes of yesteryear.

Is it OK for my daughter to wear hand-me-down shoes from her sister?
Ever heard the phrase “penny-wise and pound-foolish”? This may save a few bucks but it is one of the worst things a parent can do. Here’s why. Most kids don’t have a large shoe wardrobe and they put a lot of miles on each pair. Wear patterns develop that will not match the siblings’ causing instability and blisters.

How can I be sure my children’s shoes fit properly?
The easiest way is to go to a shoe store where they fit your child.... and that is easier said than done. Young children can’t tell you if it fits. Only test the fit with the child standing up. Is there about a thumb’s width at the end of the shoe? When you lace the shoe up do the lacings look abnormally far apart? Probably a sign the shoe is too narrow. Babies are bigger these days and so are children’s feet. The width and the “height” of their feet have really increased. Squeeze gently on the top and sides. Does it feel tight? Look for a soft comfortable footbed and check for any rough edges that could cause blisters.

Rick McKnight, owner of Kiddie Shoppe has been fitting area children’s shoes for over 20 years.