With the new school year just around the corner, many parents are hitting the shops to find the perfect pair of school shoes for their children. As a podiatrist, I see firsthand how crucial proper footwear is for growing feet. The right school shoes can prevent foot problems and provide comfort during those long school days, while the wrong choice can lead to discomfort and potential foot issues.
Why School Shoe Choice Matters
Children spend around 30 hours per week in their school shoes. That’s approximately 1,200 hours per year of walking, running, jumping, and playing. The right shoe support during these formative years is essential for proper foot development. Without appropriate footwear, children can develop various issues including heel pain, arch fatigue, growth plate inflammation, and general foot discomfort. These problems can affect not just their feet, but their overall posture and comfort throughout the school day.
Understanding Your Child’s Foot Type
Before shopping for school shoes, it’s important to understand your child’s unique foot characteristics. Children with high arches need extra cushioning to absorb shock, while those with flat feet require good arch support to prevent fatigue. The width of your child’s feet will also influence which shoes and brands work best – some children need broader toe boxes, while others need snugger fits with good adjustability.
Recommended School Shoe Brands
Clarks
Clarks continues to be one of the most reliable choices for school footwear. Their shoes are crafted with full grain leather uppers for durability, and feature thoughtfully designed footbeds that provide proper arch support. The padding around the collar prevents rubbing, while their variety of width fittings ensures a proper fit for different foot shapes. The Daytona model stands out as an excellent choice for both boys and girls, offering exceptional stability and comfort. For children who need orthotic devices, many Clarks styles offer adequate depth to accommodate these additions.
Clarks Daytona Senior – $129.95
Alpha
Alpha’s school range specifically targets the needs of growing feet, backed by a solid warranty on their outsoles. Their shoes feature excellent stability through carefully designed heel counters, while maintaining breathability with quality mesh linings. The removable innersoles make them a practical choice for children who need custom orthotics, and their attention to durability means these shoes can withstand the daily demands of school life.
Alpha Ava – $114.99
Ascent
Ascent excels in providing options for both traditional school shoes and sport styles. Their designs have earned APMA (American Podiatric Medical Association) approval, reflecting their commitment to foot health. The combination of durable leather construction and strong heel support makes these shoes a reliable choice for daily wear. Their attention to proper width fittings ensures children can find a comfortable, supportive fit.
Ascent Apex – $139.95
Skobi
Skobi’s approach to school shoes focuses on the specific needs of growing feet. Their designs incorporate flexibility where needed while maintaining stability in crucial areas. The deep heel cups provide excellent support, and their attention to toe box depth ensures growing feet have room to move naturally. The quality leather uppers adapt well to different foot shapes while maintaining durability.
Skobi Barton – $119.95
ASICS and New Balance (for Trainer-Style Shoes)
For schools that allow sport-style footwear, both ASICS and New Balance provide outstanding support for growing feet. ASICS school-appropriate models incorporate their renowned cushioning systems while maintaining a neat, uniform-friendly appearance. The combination of breathable materials and sturdy construction makes these shoes particularly good for active children who need extra support during physical activities.
New Balance offers similar quality, with their all-black leather and synthetic options being particularly suitable for school wear. Their shoes feature excellent motion control and stability, with many models offering wider width options – making them perfect for children who need more room in the toe box. Their advanced cushioning technology helps absorb impact during active play, while maintaining a smart appearance suitable for school uniforms.
ASICS Gel-550 TR – $119.95
Fitting Tips for School Shoes
The best time to shop for school shoes is in the late afternoon, when feet have naturally expanded from daily activity. This gives the most accurate size fitting and helps prevent buying shoes that feel too tight by the end of the school day. When fitting, ensure there’s about a thumb’s width of growing room at the toe, but be careful not to go too large as this can cause tripping.
It’s essential to try both shoes and have your child walk around in them for a few minutes. Many children have slight size differences between feet, so always fit to the larger foot. Bring along the socks your child will wear to school, as sock thickness can significantly affect fit.
Don’t Wait—Shop Early
With schools reopening in early February, many parents are already shopping for school shoes. Starting early ensures you’ll find the right size and style without the stress of last-minute crowds.
Care and Replacing School Shoes
Quality school shoes are an investment in your child’s foot health, and proper care can extend their life significantly. Regular cleaning and maintenance help preserve the leather and support structures. Watch for signs of wear such as compressed insoles, worn tread patterns, or collapsing heel counters – these indicate it’s time for replacement.
When to Seek Professional Advice
If your child complains of regular foot pain or you notice uneven wear patterns on their shoes, it’s worth consulting a podiatrist. Sometimes children need specific features in their footwear or custom orthotics to support proper foot development. Every child’s feet are different, and professional advice can help ensure your child’s feet are properly supported during these crucial development years.
For personalised advice on your child’s footwear, book an appointment at The Foot Hub. As podiatrists, we’re here to support your child’s foot health every step of the way.
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