Here are some important things to consider when buying new sandals for your child:

Growth allowance in sandals:

We advise buying sandals with extra growth room, as children’s feet grow fast and sandals should ideally last all summer. We recommend approximately 1 cm gap at front of the sandals. It is important that sandals for small children are not too big, as they can cause trips and falls when walking.

The width of the sandals:

Pay attention to the width of the sandals, optimum width will ensure no rubbing, blisters or difficulty walking. Sandals with Velcro or straps that can be put on and off easily are ideal for convenience and enables your child to be independent when putting on their sandals. They also enable adjustment which aids optimum sandal fit.

Growth allowance and width of sandals are crucial to ensure healthy foot growth; and it also helps to reinforce normal walking and running for our child’s feet. Learning how to measure your child’s feet and or getting them professional measured is vital.

Flexible soles:

Bend with your child’s foot with every step, they offer support in the centre of the sandal to eliminate twisting their feet and gives shock absorption, cushioning and support at the heels. The bottom of the shoe needs to have a textured surface with no-slip properties.

Finally wear supportive shoes to play sports:

Sandals are not appropriate to play play sports in. Football, tennis, cricket, and other summertime sports are more fun for kids when they have proper, supportive footwear. Investing in a good shoe that’s appropriate for each particular sport can prevent foot and ankle injuries, and support growing lower limbs.

Summertime, or any time of year, the team at Walk This Way Podiatry is here to help you and your whole family keep your feet safe and healthy. If you have concerns or questions, give us a call or schedule an appointment.