Common mistakes we make with children’s footwear

Choosing the right footwear for the youngest members of the family is very important to avoid growth and foot problems, bad posture and possible future surgical interventions. Dr. Soria, a specialist in Traumatology and Children’s Traumatology, explains the most common mistakes we make when buying children’s footwear.

Buying a larger shoe size is a mistake.

Many families choose to buy their children’s shoes one size bigger, so that they can use them for longer and not have to buy shoes every two months. While the intention to save money is understandable, it can be counterproductive for children’s feet. When trying on children’s shoes, we should be able to insert the index finger behind the heel. If the toe fits, it is the correct size, since the shoe will not be too small immediately, but it is not such a large size that the child will have to hold it with his/her toes and use force to keep it from falling off, which would not be advisable.

Flip-flops and clogs can cause injuries

Flip-flops and clogs should be avoided when going to the pool or beach. They are not recommended because what the foot does is shrink the toes, as if it had to use force to drag the shoe. This can cause future Hallux Valgus or bunions, or claw toes in the child. To avoid this, it is very important that all footwear has a strap or tape that gathers the heel at the back, so that the child does not make the gesture of wanting to pick up the shoe to walk.

Heels only for flat feet, not for children.

Heels are not advisable, especially in small children, eight or nine years old. Sometimes, however, there are teenage girls who walk better in heels because they have flat feet. In any case, only heels of three or four centimeters are recommended, no higher.

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Completely flat shoes are not advisable

Although it has been mentioned above that heels are not advisable, totally flat shoes are not advisable either. The right thing would be for shoes to have an inner insole that acts as a bridge, or a very small heel (about two centimeters). This relaxes the Achilles tendon and will prevent the pain of growth.

Velcro shoes can make the foot go too loose

Velcro can cause the foot to be too loose. Although autonomy is encouraged in schools so that children know how to put on and take off their shoes by themselves, the most correct shoe would be a well tied shoe, with laces. In case of opting for Velcro shoes, this must be of good quality and, once worn out, replace the shoe, since the foot must be well tied and tucked in.

Wearing shoes at home is a mistake: better barefoot or with socks.

Although legend has it otherwise, it is better to go barefoot or wear non-slip socks indoors. Until children are seven years old, the bridge is formed, and going barefoot favors its construction. Constipation is not caught through the feet either, but through viruses. With socks children will not get constipated.

Shoes should not be inherited if they are not in good condition.

Before considering an inherited shoe as valid, it is necessary to check its condition. Check that the heel part is not loose and, if fastened with Velcro, these should work very well. If the shoe is good, it can be used for two seasons, or even passed from one sibling to another, but it must be in good condition.

It is important to change shoes

It is convenient for the child to change shoes and not always wear the same sports shoes or the same boots. It is important to rotate.